October 30, 2014

Volume 17, Issue 4 October 30, 2014

Mr. Keating at CEO

Winter Sports Preview

Halloween Throwback Kairos Retreat

Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 www.xaviersaints.org www.issuu.com/xpressnewspaper/docs Follow us: @xpressnewspaper

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Page Design by Kathleen Parrish; Photos by Bauer, Weber, Gerke, and Submitted

News

2 Index

News.. 2 | Opinion.. 4 Student Life.. 6 | Mini-Feature.. 7 Feature.. 8 Health & Lifestyle.. 10 | A & E.. 11 Sports.. 14 | Backpage.. 16

Xpress Staff Editor-In-Chief Katherine Bauer

Photo Editor

Kathleen Parrish Photographers Jessica Fenske Ellie Detweiler Maddy Bailey

Business

Tory Brown

Distribution

Donavin Wenger

Online Editor Jeff Frieden

News Editor Tyler Testin News Writers Kathleen Parrish Tory Brown Erin Drahozal Amy Boe KJ Giles

Opinion Editor Amy Boe

Opinion Assistant Abby Willey Opinion Writers Nic Ekland Erin Drahozal Erin Foley Brooke Alexander Adrienne Hayes

Student Life Editor Jenny Dickes

Student Life Assistant Morgan Ross Student Life Writer Stephanie Wehr

Mini-Feature Editors

Faith Bohrer & Mikayla Noonan Mini-Feature Assistant Hadley Shriver

Feature Editors

Brady Hoffman & Jessica Driscoll Feature Writer Brylee Bastian

Health and Lifestyle Editor Samantha Valenta

Health and Lifestyle Assistant Maddy Bailey Health and Lifestyle Writer Hailey Justice

Arts & Entertainment Editor

Kayla Thompson & Rachel Lampe Arts and Entertainment Writers Catie Locher Donavin Wenger Nic Ekland

Sports Editor

Daniel Richardson Sports Assistant KJ Giles Sports Writers Luke Koechner Grant Gibney

Xavier High School

Lindale Mall’s School Cents fundraiser begins When shopping this fall at Lindale Mall, be sure to ask for a receipt with every purchase. From October 1 through December 31, receipts are more than just records of past purchases. These slips of paper transform into cash for 15 area schools as part of the annual School Cents fundraiser sponsored by Lindale Mall. Every school gets some cash, but the final prize payout is determined by the number of Lindale Mall receipts turned in for a specific learning institution. Over $7,000 is awarded to the winning school at a ceremony inside the mall on January 10, 2015.

“Lindale Mall strongly believes that the children and young adults of today will mold the future,” Lindale Mall marketing administrative assistant Jennifer Daywitt said.

“Therefore, education should be a major concern for everyone. With increasing budget constraints, many school programs are cut or reduced. In an effort to assist schools in our community, Lindale Mall is offering $25,000 in prize money to area schools through

School Cents, a program designed to assist schools with funding for their programs in need.”

School Cents employs a multifaceted scoring system. Ten points are given for each dollar spent inside of Lindale Mall and surrounding stores including Planet X and Red Lobster. These receipts also qualify for triple point weekends. Each dollar spent at qualifying stores on November 28-30 and December 19-21 is worth 30 points.

The fastest way to score is at restaurants inside of the mall.

Every dollar spent at these eateries earns 100 points. All receipts can be dropped off in the appropriate collection box near the fountain in the center of Lindale Mall or at the Collins Road Hy-Vee. If a customer wants to hold on to their receipts, a Point Pass Card can be filled out instead. These cards are available on the lower level of the mall to record the dollars awarded to each school. At this time receipts are also stamped so there is no cheating in this competition.

Additional points are awarded

Most people who know Xavier High School know the principal, Mr. Tom Keating. Many students pass him each morning as he stands outside the commons welcoming students to class. But many are unaware of the long journey that brought him to Xavier and to his strong faith in God. On October 15, he shared his story with parishioners and guests at St. Ludmila Church through a Catholic Evangelization Outreach,CEO,talk.

Mr. Keating explained that his faith life has not always been put together, even though God was always present.

“The reality is that, like so many others, I have struggled with my faith,” Mr. Keating said, “and although I’ve made progress, I continue to seek ways to grow closer to God.” Mr. Keating explained how in his early life he was surrounded by a rich faith life and a Catholic education. However, he did not entirely appreciate these gifts. He stopped attending Mass with his parents and eventually began to skip entirely.

“It’s funny to me to hear people say that Mass is not that big a deal,” Mr. Keating said. “Once I drifted away from Mass, I drifted away from God altogether.”

Mr. Keating explained how drinking entered his life in high school, especially as his mother became mentally ill and was committed to Haverford State Hospital. He struggled to understand how

God let this happen to him.

“I may have given up on God,” Mr. Keating said, “but He certainly did not give up on me.”

Mr. Keating told how God was constantly whispering to him through his teachers, coaches, and his father who remained devoted to his mother. But he continued to ignore these inklings and became secluded and distant from others.

Mr. Keating first taught at Maxwell High School, but was eventually called onto Wahlert High School as the psychology teacher. Soon after, he was blessed with his wife Jodi and made a life in Dubuque. At Wahlert, Mr. Keating was surrounded by a Catholic environment, but was hesitant to let go and become a part of it. His breakthrough moment occurred when he was a member of the TEC team for Catholic seniors.

“I’m not sure how many students connected to Jesus that weekend, but I can tell you that I did,” Mr. Keating said.

At TEC, he read various letters from family and friends, and he realized how many loved him and that God was reaching out to him through all these people.

“Out of those depths rose the beginnings of the man you see today,” Mr. Keating said, “one that is still a long way from what God wants him to be, but nonetheless closer than he’s ever been before.”

Mr. Keating’s faith was revived, but God was not done throwing challenges at him. After 24 years at Wahlert, Mr. Keating was

when students bring their report cards into the mall management office. A GPA of 4.0 is worth 500 points. Points are scored for school’s publicity campaigns for School Cents. Thirty points are the going rate for a PA announcement or a newspaper article. A $250 bonus is up for grabs for the school with the best publicity.

“Having the Xavier Community save their Lindale Mall receipts is an easy way to make every little bit count toward earning Xavier cash,” administrative assistant to the principal Mrs. Melissa Sadilek said.

November 15 is the halfway mark for the School Cents fundraiser. $5,000 of prize money is shared among the schools at that point. If Xavier families work together, their school can win a majority of this preliminary cash, which is just a small portion of the overall jackpot worth $25,000.

Tyler Testin News Editor

Keating shares life story at CEO

Xavier principal Mr. Tom Keating addresses the St Ludmila crowd at CEO. Katherine Bauer Photo. called to the principal position at Xavier through activities director Mr. Mike Winker.

“God did not call me to Xavier to design curriculum, make schedules, and fill out reports,” Mr. Keating said. “He called me to spread HisWord to our community.”

Mr. Keating closed by calling his audience to be witnesses.

He said that God shaped his life and never gave up on him.

Keating encouraged them to open themselves to God’s plan, comfort, and love.

The next CEO event is on November 4 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton where Joan Hackbarth will tell her journey from Judaism to Catholicism. It begins at 6:30 p.m. with a light meal and fellowship.

Katherine Bauer Editor-in-Chief

Ryan Williams Mark Wardlaw

Backpage Editors Jessica Fenske

Backpage Assistant Ellie Detweiler Backpage Writer Anna Christianson The Xpress Bi-weekly Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 Volume 17 Issue 4

Construction Materials, Inc. Dick Galligan 345-49th Avenue Dr. S.W. Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 (319)-366-6446 (800) 747-6401 dgalligan@constructionmaterialsinc.com

October 30, 2014

News

3

Kairos-19 kicks off

Many Xavier underclassmen have heard about the wonders of Kairos. Whether they have older siblings who have gone on the retreat or have just seen the iconic green sweatshirts, students are at least vaguely familiar with the name. But what is Kairos?

Kairos is a retreat originally based on the Christian Awakening retreat program. It was developed in 1965 by the Diocese of Brooklyn and became popular throughout the United States. It was changed in 1975 to a closer version of the modern retreat. In 1979, it adopted the name “Kairos,” which comes from a Greek word meaning “time” or “the Lord’s time.” Xavier started their Kairos tradition in 2008 with three retreat opportunities per year. This fall, from October 23-26, juniors went on the nineteenth Xavier Kairos (K19).

Kairos is a four day, three night optional retreat for juniors.It is held at the American Martyrs Retreat Center in Cedar Falls. Students are bussed there for a long weekend of spiritual and emotional development. Participants are invited to build a more personal relationship with God, each other, and their community.

However, the juniors going into Kairos do not know what exactly is going to happen.

“I have heard absolutely nothing about it and that makes me nervous,” junior Ellie Meyer said in the week before K19. “I want to know what we will be doing! The seniors have done a great job of keeping all the activities a secret.”

Kairos alumni are forbidden to pass on information about the retreat to anyone who has not yet been on it. In order to

have the full Kairos experience, students are invited to come with an open mind and heart.

There are three opportunities for juniors to go on Kairos this year: one in the fall, one in the winter, and one in the spring.

The winter retreat (K20) will be held January 8-11 and the spring retreat (K21) is April 29-May 2.

Kairos senior leaders Mikayla Sherman, Morgan Brown, Kayla Thompson, Calvin Winker, Abby Schmitt, Tory Brown, and Delany Breitbach, prepare to embark on a K19 adventure.

K19 is the first of three Kairos weekends scheduled this academic year. Shannon Mulcahey Photo.

Kathleen Parrish News Writer

Sing, Witness, Pray unites Catholic youth This year, Catholic parishes all across Cedar Rapids are trying to encourage youth to be more involved in their parishes. On October 19, Sing, Witness, Pray was held at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Sing, Witness, Pray, SWP, is an opportunity for young adults to seek God in ways other than sitting in a pew at church or humming choir songs.

This hour long gathering of the youth of all area parishes consists of listening to a 20 minute witness talk about an experience with Christ, 20 minutes of silent prayer

in front of the blessed sacrament, and 20 minutes of singing with the whole congregation.

“Sing, Witness, Pray is a great way to grow in your faith,” senior Claire Christianson said. “Being involved in the service and having fun with my friends was a great experience. Singing was by far the best part, and there was never a dull moment. I will definitely attend this again!”

SWP is an assembly of youth from the parishes in Cedar Rapids.

It gives them the opportunity to participate in church and form a

union with God that some might not get while attending Sunday Mass. SWP forces the constant involvement of all its participants, and that is why this service is becoming more and more popular.

“Many youth go through the motions of their faith without feeling connected to the person of Jesus Christ,” theology teacher and Xavier youth ministry leader Mrs. Sue May said. “SWP is a wonderful opportunity for Catholic youth to reinvigorate their faith in Jesus and make their relationship with him a personal one. This

20/20/20 experience is powerful because Jesus is the center and focus in every part of the event.”

The next SWP event will be held at St. Ludmila on November 9. For more information about Sing, Witness, Pray, contact your local youth minister or head to campus ministry and talk to Father Vu or Mrs. Jody Esker.

Safe driving typically comes with the benefits of a decrease in crashes, fewer speeding tickets, and a reduction in traffic fatalities.

The recent Celebrate My Drive contest added 100,000 more reasons to practice driving safely.

“The overall goal of promoting safe driving habits is a good thing, and when coupled with the chance to win ‘fabulous prizes,’ participation seems like a no-brainer,” social studies teacher Ms. Gineal Schrunk said.

This national contest, presented

by State Farm, began in 2012.

A top prize of $100,000 plus a concert was enough to capture the attention of Xavier High School.

The task was easy. Participants had to answer simple driving safety questions. The rewards seemed achievable. Newly cemented 3A football rival Western Dubuque won $25,000 in last year’s contest. It was as if the sounds of the Band Perry were already ringing through the Xavier halls.

Xavier Administration sweetened the prize pot with incremental rewards if the school ranked in the top 50, top 25, and top 10 on Celebrate My Drive’s national leaderboard. Casual dress days, a Student Senate crafted lunch menu, and an encore performance by science teacher Mr. Scott Schaub’s National Guard band, the Sidewinders, were all incentives to build student support and enthusiasm for safe driving.

When the Celebrate My Drive rankings were last published, Xavier failed to crack the top 50. However, there was one last day for driving celebration, and Xavier pulled out all the stops to get in on the cash prizes.

“The leaderboard was removed on October 23 to ensure that current rankings are not interpreted as final rankings,” State Farm stated.

“In the last few hours of the campaign, more than a million commitments are expected, and the leaderboard changes rapidly. All commitments are requalified by an e-mail verification

specialist between October 25-November 14, which may cause changes in final rankings.”

Winning schools will be notified around November 14, and the final standings are released December 15. There is still hope Xavier High School will be among the 45 small schools to win a $25,000 grant. 10% of the prize money must be used to promote student driver safety, while the rest can go towards any school improvement project approved by State Farm.

Despite daily announcements, reminders on xaviersaints.org, and a forest of 700 locker posters, it is uncertain whether Xavier will emerge with any cash prizes from the Celebrate My Drive contest. But money does not buy happiness nor safe driving skills. Regardless of the results, the Saints learned important safety tips, the greatest prize of all. From October 15 through 24, Xavier celebrated a safer drive.

Erin Drahozal News Writer

Celebrate My Drive rewards safety on the road

Tyler Testin News Editor

Opinion

4 The power of good vibes “ M u s i c produces a kind of p l e a s u re which human nature cannot do without”, C h i n e s e philosopher Confucius said.

Some people will try to argue that music is just a form of entertainment.

They will say it isn’t a necessity in our lives and it’s stupid to waste money on CDs and concerts. I completely disagree. Music has helped me to overcome difficult times in my life and has always had the words to express how I felt even when I couldn’t find them myself. Without music, I know I would be a different person.

Music has a power to unite us.

A few years ago, I visited some friends in Spain. One night, when we were walking around, we started to talk about music.

I knew around seven words in Spanish but all I had to say was “Pitbull” for everyone’s faces to light up. Within 30 seconds of the singer being brought up, we were belting out Pitbull’s I Know You Want Me. In the summer of 2013, Robin

Lessons learned from High School Musical On one snowy January night in 2006, my life was c h a n g e d forever. It was the day the first High School Musical was released on Disney Channel.

If you’re not already a fan, you should be, and you’re welcome at my house any time to have a movie marathon. Over the years of re-watching the series more times than I can count, I’ve come to the conclusion that High School Musical is so much more than movies. While my 11-year-old self may not have taken anything out of the movies, I now can watch them and see so many things I can still learn. So why not share the wisdom that has been imparted on me from my beloved High School Musical with all of you?

1.) Cliques are completely overrated. Seeing so many characters throughout the series break out of their shells and try new things is a great example to all of us to do the same. You want to try out for poms even though your friends aren’t doing it? Do it anyways! There’s no set guidelines for who you should hang out with and what you

Thicke’s Blurred Lines was constantly on the radio. It was highly controversial, and while I don’t condone the message, I have to admit it was my favorite song of the summer. If it came on while I was driving, I would roll down all my windows and start singing. At red lights and stop signs, I would even lean over and serenade the unlucky driver next to me. Despite my wretched singing ability, I always brought a smile or a laugh to the car next to me. One time, I even had an older man tell me that I had made his day.

If you think about it, music can be found in the most important aspects of our lives. We sing numerous songs and hymns at Mass. Music is played during the first dance of every wedding ceremony. And songs are used at funerals to mirror the sorrow felt by the grievers. Imagine how much different it would be in a world without music. I don’t know if I could survive.

I’m not saying that music is going to create world peace or discover a cure for cancer, but it is a necessity in our lives whether we realize it or not.

Adrienne Hayes Opinon Writer

should do, so you might as well do what makes you happy instead of what makes others happy.

2.) It’s totally cool to be smart.

There may not be a scholastic decathlon at Xavier, but there are plenty of other ways to make use of that brilliant brain God gave you. Don’t ever try and hide things about yourself that might be considered “nerdy” because in the end, being smart is going to get you so much further than pretending you’re not. So go get that A+ on your next test! I promise you, or your GPA, won’t regret it.

3.) Treat others how you want to be treated. No one wants to pull a Sharpay Evans and be a mean diva who thinks they’re better than everyone else. No matter what, you should always

Xavier High School

Don’t hate on relationships If you knew the old me, you would know I have always said I think dating in high school is dumb. I always used to talk about how I didn’t want a relationship. If you truly knew me, you would know this is no longer accurate.

I have always put up a front saying that being single is so much fun and that I don’t need a relationship to be happy. I’m still a firm believer that you need to be confident in yourself before you can be happy with someone else, but after seeing all of my friends with their boyfriends, I realized that I have just been lying to myself when I said I didn’t want a relationship.

I don’t know why I have had this sudden change on my view of relationships. I think it’s because over half of my friends are in relationships and I see how happy they are. Some of them are in much better moods now than they were before they were in relationships.

I’m seeing them send out be kind, both when people are or aren’t with you. Next time you’re about to say something about someone, think to yourself, “Would I like it if they said this about me?” If the answer is no, don’t say it. It’s that simple. Plus, I guarantee you’ll have a lot more friends if you strive to be kind.

4.) Stand up for yourself. Every time Ryan stood up to Sharpay I felt a sense of pride in him and the progress he made. You should never let someone dictate what you do or how you act. Unless it’s your parents or a teacher, then you totally should. I’m not saying to yell at the next person who tells you how you should do something, but you also shouldn’t let yourself be walked all over. So you heard your friend said something mean

Senior Amy Boe and her friends do the signature jump from High School Musical to display their love for the film.

Kathleen Parrish Photo.

good luck texts before their boyfriends’ football games and waiting for each other between classes. These are some of the cute little things I notice. Seeing this happiness makes me want to be able to experience it like they do.

In the past I have said I have never wanted a relationship because I don’t like to let people in. I don’t like people to know much about me.

Relationships mean trust, and I am very bad with trusting people because I fear someone is going to stab me in the back.

I put up a wall so I can’t get hurt and that has made me not able to trust new people.

Seeing my friends so happy has left me reflecting. What’s the point of being happy if you can’t share it with others?

Being open to others (not just boyfriends or girlfriends) will benefit you in the long run and you will have better relationships with everyone.

Dating in high school can be a positive option. Go out and try to find what makes you happy and share it with others.

Brooke Alexander Opinion Writer

about you at lunch? Speak to them in person and ask them kindly (see #3 if you need help with this one) why they said what they said. Having the confidence to know what you deserve and expecting nothing less is freeing and a great way to live.

5.) Friends are everything. As I watched with teary eyes as the six main characters say goodbye to a chapter in their lives, it’s apparent just how much the friendships they made along the way affected them. You may forget the tests you took or the practices you went to, but you won’t forget the people that who by your side when those things happened. Having a solid support system to both encourage you and have fun with are priceless and something that cannot be replaced. After all, it’s your friends who make the bad days better and good days great, because “We’re All In This Together.”

Whether you’re a huge fan like me or you hate the whole HSM franchise, or if know every word to every song or know none at all, you can’t deny that there’s some pretty great things that can be taken from it. No matter what, I will continue to belt every song at the top of my lungs while driving and obsess over the wonder that is Troy Bolton. Because once a wildcat, always a wildcat.

Amy Boe Opinion Editor

October 30, 2014 Tough to be a teen W h e n young kids in our world turn on their television, they are attacked with V i c t o r i a ’s S e c r e t commercials and the latest diet pills. They see movies where the actresses weigh 120 pounds and are skinny with beautiful hair and the men are handsome with six-packs.

They grow up with feelings of low self-worth, depression, anxiety, negative body image, and eating disorders.

The 21st century is leading teens in the wrong direction.

Your childhood and adolescence years are when you develop the foundation to become empowered. You gain knowledge, skills, resources, and confidence in yourself.

Social media has begun to bring teens into this black hole earlier and earlier. Now, ten-year-olds have better electronics than I do and are more involved with social media than I am.

Sports: benefits beyond the scoreboard As athletes, we too often hear how winning is the only way to measure success, how sports are mainly about who’s hoisting the trophy and who’s holding in the tears.

Throughout my 14 years of playing organized sports, I’ve found out that there is so much more than just a winner and a loser. There are so many more lessons to learn than just how to lose with class and win with humility.

Sports and athletics give us the opportunity to connect with our teammates and peers in ways we wouldn’t be able to otherwise. They teach us to push our minds and our bodies in a way I could not do sitting in a desk at school or behind a counter at work. They teach us how to trust, how to believe in ourselves, and how to put others’ needs before my own. In the wise words of Coach Schulte, “It’s about everyone but you.”

One of the greatest lessons sports teach is self-discipline.

Self-discipline is hard to learn and hard to comprehend. Selfdiscipline involves acting according to what you think is right instead of how you feel in

Opinion I used to have to thank my parents after dinner, and now kids bring their phones to the table and don’t say a word until it’s time to go back into their room. Teens are being shown at school that to make new friends you have to wear a pound of makeup two shades darker than your skin tone, spend $60 on a shirt, and have parties at your house with alcohol.

Many adults believe that 21st century kids are selfish and superficial, but I disagree.

When I was a kid, I used to follow my mom around our house with my pink broom and dust pan and mimic her motions when she was sweeping. As kids, we learn most things from our parents. They teach us life lessons and lead us in the right path. Modern living has misguided parents. Instead of teaching kids what is required to earn a living, three-yearsolds are already able to operate their parents’ phone.

It’s hard being a teen in the 21st century. As teens growing up in this stage of life, we are pressured every day.

We wake up and spend time making sure we look good,

we buy expensive clothes and school supplies to impress others, we get worked up over little things, and we become someone we never wanted to see in the mirror. Teens begin to not be as enthusiastic about activities that we are passionate about because others do not have interest in them.

With everything that teens go through in the 21st century, we are extremely strong. We have been taught to hold back our thoughts and actions when we should be expressing everything we believe.

For teens to reach the fullest potential, we need to provide empowerment to young kids to increase their self-esteem at a young age. I challenge you to say thank you to your parents and teachers today, talk to your classmate who is quiet and shy, and encourage your younger siblings to be themselves and be the greatest they can be.

the moment. Often, it involves sacrificing the pleasure and thrill of the moment for what matters most. An example of how sports teach us this lesson is when you’re at Coach Lilly’s pre-game practices and you’ve already ran nine down-and-back sprints in a row and he tells you to run another.You have to find the heart and mental toughness to get up and run another. You don’t get to pick and choose when you decide to work hard. That’s not how life works. Our character is built when we get outside our comfort zone. You can’t get outside your comfort zone and grow as a human being without having the self discipline to change.

Softball and basketball are a huge part of my life, and I attribute my success as a person to the sports I’ve played, the teammates I’ve played with, and the outstanding coaches who have taught me all of these valuable lessons along the way.

I’m proud of all the lessons I’ve learned, but I’m more proud of the person that athletics have made me into. I’m mentally tough, and I have learned to work hard.

Once you realize that nothing is handed to you in the real world, you’ll realize that the lessons you learned during athletics, like hard work and self-discipline, will get you to where you want to be in life.

After all, you get what you earn.

Learn to appreciate time

Erin Drahozal News Writer

5

Ellie Detweiler Backpage Assistant Editor Junior Ellie Detweiler mimicks her mom and is ready to clean with supplies on her apron. Photo submitted.

Time.

It’s a concept everyone k n o w s about, yet doesn’t really understand.

We don’t really know why time is the way it is or how time and space work. When we try to wrap our heads around time, space, and light, it just hurts. But what would you do if your time was clocked and you could see the numbers ticking down? What would you do if you were the next Ebola victim and your time was coming to an end quickly? Most of us will never know when our time will be complete, but we have certain time frames that end.

There are stages we all go through: elementary school, middle school, high school, and college. My time is finishing up with high school, and I watch the minutes go by. I start to worry about how those minutes are being spent. In econ, Coach Schulte just taught us about opportunity cost. I won’t spoil the excitement for those of you to still take the class, but when you get down to it, it’s about choosing one thing instead of another. For example, when I spend time watching Netflix, I give up time I could spend playing with my dog, Joey.

After learning the concept of opportunity cost, I’ve been looking at life a little differently.

Seniors, we have about seven months until we graduate. It might be the last time that we see some of the people we’ve been going to school with for 12+ years. That’s hard to wrap my head around.

Of course I’m starting to worry about every minute I spend doing something if I should be doing something else.

This isn’t just about what you’re doing but who you’re spending your time with. Like I’ve stated previously, none of us know when we are going to die, but we do know when certain things end. It’s time to start thinking about who’s important to us.

I’ve started to appreciate my family more because I realized that soon I will be leaving them.

But I also need to spend time with friends and make sure I make the most of my senior year. That’s what I challenge you all to do. Think about the time you have and make the most of it. You never know when your last goodbye will be, so make the most of what you have!

Tory Brown Business Manager

October 30, 2014

OCT.

6

93% I

of Xavier students like old Halloween Disney movies compared to new.

Disney.com Photo

16%

Separated at birth and never told about each other, two twin sisters discover their magical childhood after being reunited on their 21st birthday. These twins must work together to defeat The Darkness.

Hocus Pocus

Halloweentown

Past Disney Monstober Movies

Twitches

Mini-Feature

Disney.com Photo

Disney.com Photo

24%

The town of Salem captures and frames three witches for practicing witchcraft. Before their deaths, they vow to return to Salem 300 years later on Halloween, seeking revenge on everyone in the town whose ancestors took part in executing them 300 years ago.

Design by Faith Bohrer and Mikayla Noonan. Movie summaries by Hadley Shriver

60%

Marnie discovers that she is a witch. She must start training to avoid losing her powers and finds herself sneaking on the return bus to Halloweentown. Because of this mistake, Marnie must defend Halloweentown from the evil mayor, Kalabar.

Other Monstober Movies Frankenweenie, Spooky Buddies, Haunted Mansion, Mom’s Got a Date With a Vampire, and Under Wraps

Student Life

Xavier High School

7

Too Cute!

Halloween Edition

Dressing up for Halloween is a fun tradition everyone can take part in... even your pets! See how Xavier students dress up their pets for the Halloween season.

Putter

Kenzie

Reese

Cara ‘15 and Liz ‘17 Hessman

Katie Neumeyer ‘16

Mrs. Kearns

“We bought Putter his taco costume a couple of months ago, and we put him in it every time we eat tacos for dinner.”

“My family has dressed up Kenzie for two years and taken her to the Theisen’s Halloween Pet Costume Contest.”

Maggie Raggedy Ann Madsy Richards ‘15

Max Yoda Donavin Wenger ‘16

“I’ve dressed up Reese since he was a puppy, and now I can dress him and Hadley in cute outfits together. We take them trick or treating together every year!”

Murphy Pig Adrienne Hayes ‘16

Toshi Hawaiian Puppy Emiko Coffey ‘17

Top Ten Pet Costumes of 2013

#1 Devil

#2 Pumpkin

#5 Angel

#8 Bat

#3 Witch

#6 Pirate

#9 Black Cat

#4 Princess

#7 Hot Dog

#10 Clown

Page design by: Jenny Dickes and Morgan Ross. Information collected by: Stephanie Wehr, www.goodhousekeeping.com.

88

Feat

October 30, 2014

Carving out memories from the past.

No matter what age, these Xavier students show us their Halloween spirit.

Page Design By Brady Hoffman and Jessica Driscoll

Erik Rodriguez dresses as an adorable clown.

Nine-year-old Catie Locher scaring people as a zombie bride.

Connor and Erin Foley pose as Buzz Lightyear and a bunny.

Sydney Wright shows us those puppy dogs eyes.

Hanna and Faith Bohrer dress up as a lion and a princess.

Hannah Helms and her brothers dresse up as the characters from The Wizard of Oz.

Madsy Richards as Raggedy Ann. Claire Christianson as a cat. Abbey Potter as Hannah Montana.

Erin Kirby, Emiko Coffey, and Lindsey Shriver pose as zombies.

Mary Tallet dresses up as a Jack-O-Latern.

ture

Xavier High School

Brylie and her brother Bryton Hayes pair up as a mouse and a computer.

Jenna and Allison Schwach dress up as a Holy Family Falcons cheerleader and a hippie.

Lucero Vega and Morgan Brown in 4th grade dress as a skeleton and candy corn.

Sanders Ferring dresses as a cowboy.

Addy Hoffman dresses as Elmo.

Lizzy Bailey and Reagan Rokos bring out the clown look.

Sidney and Colin Scott pair up to flash their fangs.

Melody Snow dresses up as a cute puppy dog.

Ellie Detweiler poses for a picture on Halloween dressed as a baby.

Brandon Serovy shows off his Hulk muscles in 2003.

Four-year-old Amy Boe fools the crowd with her sweet princess smile.

Maddie Feltman dresses as Tigger, and her sister Abby Feltman dresses as Pooh.

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Health & Lifestyle

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Xavier High School

THE SCARE FACTOR When scared, your...

• heartrate increases • Palms sweat • senses sharpen • breathing quickens • pupils get larger • mouth gets dry • “fight or Flight” instinct kicks in

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Scary Stories

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Page Design: Sam Valenta and Maddy Bailey. Pictures: Clipart. Info: Hailey Justice, Maddy Bailey, kidshealth.org, phobias.about.com.

H A L L O W E E N F E A R S

A&E

October 30, 2014

Poms Stack the Stands On Saturday, October 25, the Xavier poms participated in Stack the Stands at Prairie High School, the first of five competition they will be attending. At the competition, the pom squad placed first in the jazz routine, first in the poms routine, and won Grand Champion with the highest score in the poms division.

To prepare for competitions, the pom squad practices their routines and conditions in order to build up their endurance.

They practice for six hours a week, and in addition to the hours spent at practice, many spend various hours outside of practice at dance studios working on technique.

“Between poms and dance practices, I spend ten hours every week practicing and rehearsing,” junior Alexandria Smith said.

This year, the pom squad is lead by two captains, junior Erin Foley and senior Madison Recker.

“My favorite part about poms is either performing for our peers at games and pep rallies or our pom bonding,” Recker said.

The next competition is State Solo, which will be held November 1 at Norwalk.

Donavin Wenger A&E Writer

The pom squad poses after their Stack the Stands competition on October 25.

Photo Submitted.

Nic’s Picks

11

The Naked and Famous

Favorite Songs: Youngblood Hearts Like Ours Punching in a Dream

As far as New Zealand artists come, Lorde set the bar extremely high with her smash hit single Royals over shadowing the Auckland born, indie rock sensation known as The Naked and Famous, who has been featured in shows such as “Gossip Girl” and “Chuck.”

They are most well known for their 2010 hit album Passive Me, Aggressive You, which produced multiple hits with the most popular being Youngblood. The Naked and Famous bring an interesting vibe to the table: sing along hits, catchy choruses and on top of that, a synthpop feel. The five man band recently released their second album In Rolling Waves, topped by the BBC radio 1 single Hearts Like Ours.

Relatively still unknown,

what makes The Naked and Famous special is their ability to compose songs that everyone can enjoy. Most people have a genre they listen to and remain loyal. The Naked and Famous can turn these people into believers, lovers of all music. The uplifting, inspirational, life reflecting music is sure to put a smile on the face of anyone listening.

It’s hard to describe them as just one genre. Some songs you may get more of an indie or indie rock feel while others may give the total synthpop experience.

Look The Naked and Famous up on iTunes and let your journey into the possibilities of music begin.

Nic Ekland A&E Writer

Speech Results

After auditions were held on October 6-7, speech coaches Lisa Strief, Scott Davidson, Steve Worthington, and Laura Travagiakis sat down and picked the performing groups. Congratulations to all performers!

Musical Theater Hercules

Nicole Lengemann Rylee Wegmann Grace Schulte Faith Satern Alea Challenger

Once Upon a Mattress

Princess Winifred....Alena Brunis Prince Dauntless....David O’Brien Sir Harry...........Eric Riehle Lady Larken.....Maddie Oberfoell Lady Mabelle.....Jenna Ampulski Sir Studly..........Caleb Burken

Sweeny Todd

Sweeny Todd.....Jacob Hansen Mrs. Lovett........Belle Canney

One Act Play Lockdown

Mark ...................Kyle Skoumal Phil ........................Peter Clark Tyler....................Jaden Henley Chelsea..............Kayla Thompson Liz.............Cali Worthington Sarah..................Belle Canney Mrs. Karsh........Nicole Lengemann 9th Grade Girl..............Eva Deegan Mystery Person......Nicole Meskimen

Choral Reading

Cries from the Classroom Sarah Bouska Isabelle Kaiser Shyla Morrow Caleb Burken David O’Brien Cameron Cookson Joy Schnoebelen Rylee Wegmann Kathleen Kenney Grace Schulte Faith Satern

Radio News

Gemma Tursi Nic Peters Isabelle Kaiser Natalie Wobbe Kathleen Kenney Lauren Flory Kyle Skoumal Jessica Winders

Short Film #1 Nolan Pithan Spencer Wille Erin Hassenstab Sam Bouska

Improv

Peter Deegan Gabi Cummings Charlie Esker Josh Hansen Jenna Ampulski Gemma Tursi Alena Brunis Nicole Hassenstab Jaden Henley Kayla Thompson

TV News

Tyler Testin Jacob Miller Nic Peters Michael Olberding Peter Clark Katherine Bauer Jennifer Wille Calvin Ford

Short Film #2

Cali Worthington Connor Miller Brett Biermann Shyla Morrow

Ensemble Acting Getting Out

Arlene.........Jeanne Bouchard Arlie............Claire Bouchard Bennie.........Eric Riehle Evans.......Cameron Cookson

The Game

Life.........Katherine Bauer Girl..........Alea Challenger Youth...........Charlie Esker Death.............Sam Rohret

Charlie and Vito

Vito........Josh Hansen Charlie......Jacob Hansen

Reader’s Theater

Connor Brost Natalie Wobbe Jennifer Wille Michael Olberding Chris Haley Sam Rohert Claire Bouchard Jeanne Bouchard Katie Neumeyer Ellie Detweiler

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A&E

Xavier High School

Bands Outside of Xavier Mr. Scott Schaub: The Sidewinders 1. How did you get started?

I picked-up the bass when I was 16 years old. I saw some 34th Army Band performances shortly thereafter and found out that I could join the band and have my bachelor’s degree paid for by the Army. Also, I wanted to continue playing in a band after I got out of high school, because I love music so much.

2. How often do you pracice?

My bands practice roughly 30 days per year. I practice daily. When my band gets together for a rehearsal, it is expected that the music we are going to rehearse is already memorized.

3. How long have you been in the band?

I have been playing in various groups within the 34th Army Band for 23 years. Five of us in the rock band “Sidewinders” also makeup a jazz quintet called “OPERATION: Groove.” Both of these bands are part of the 34th Army Band.

4. What is your favorite part of being in the band?

My favorite part about being in a band is the interaction with my band mates. We can anticipate each other effectively during rehearsals and performances and lock-in some pretty tight grooves.

Photos submitted.

Blake Welter: Sponch 1. Who else is in the band with you?

The band includes Tommy Harris (‘15), Mitch young (‘16), and Daniel Richardson (‘16)

2. What instrument do you play?

I play the drums.

3. How did you get started in the band?

I’ve been involved in music since fifth grade, but Tommy and I got together last year and started having jam sessions and decided we wanted to make a band. We practice together about every other week. We’ve played at Newbo Festival, Galaxy, a few grad parties, and will hopefully perform at Mini Dance Marathon.

4. What is your favorite part of being in the band?

Lately we have been starting to write our own stuff, and it’s fun to create our own style of music.

Photos submitted.

Marching Band sets new standard The Xavier Marching band had a precedent setting season. They competed at three competitions placing sixth at the Linn-Mar Invitational out of eight bands and sixth again at the Dutch Invitational out of 10 bands. At the Five Seasons Invitational, they received sixth place out of 14 bands, and they broke the school record with a 74.35 out of 100 points.

But the highlight was the state contest when they broke their record from the week before by scoring a 75.6 and receiving a Division I rating.

As with every year, there are seniors who are participating in Xavier marching band for the final time. Senior Nicole Lengeman has been involved in marching band all four years of high school. She is content with how the season ended and is looking forward to digging in on their Christmas music.

“I feel proud of how well

our band has done this year,” Lengemann said. “We have worked hard, and I am honored to have worked with such wonderful people. I feel like we, as seniors and as a band, have ended this season with a bang!”

Now that the season is over, the marching band will be transitioning into their Christmas music. They will be playing a variety of concert band pieces. Xavier students can look forward to hearing the band’s Christmas spread at Christmas with Xavier on Sunday, December 14.

Catie Locher A&E Writer

Rachel Lampe A&E Co-Editor

Choir Performs First Concert On Monday, October 20, the first choir concert was held. In preparation for their first performance, the choirs worked hard, even staying after class to practice.

At the Fall Vocal Preview, five different choirs performed a total of 14 songs.

Xavier Chorale performed three songs, A Drop in the Ocean, Ecce Dedi Verba Mea, and Way Over in Beulah Lan. Junior Eric Riehle has been in choir at Xavier for two years and sings bass in Xavier Chorale and plays euphonium in concert band.

“Choir is different from

band because of how the choir is separated compared to how band is separated,” junior Eric Riehle said. “In choir, there are about four groups: bass, tenor, alto, and soprano. And in band there are tons of different instruments playing different parts.”

The choir is already looking forward to and preparing for their next performance, Christmas with Xavier, which will be held Sunday, December 14.

Donavin Wenger A&E Writer

Xavier’s choir performs at the Fall Vocal Preview in Regis/LaSalle Theater on October 20. Tom Keating Photo.

A&E

October 30, 2014

13

Halloween Movie: Scary Scale Halloween is a favorite time of year for movies. From Disney favorites to horror movie classics, there is something out there for everyone. Here are some favorite films for the spooky holiday.

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Coraline

Least Scary Halloweentown Series

Dead Silence

Carrie

Moderately Scary The Nightmare Before Christmas

Scariest The Exorcist

The Conjuring

Kayla Thompson A&E Co-Editor

Google Images Photos Dick Alexander Kelli Alexander Nancy Alexander Kermit and Florence Alveshere Peter and Joan Bailey Ryan and Tracy Bastian Jim and Judy Bauer Ken and Rosemary Bauer John Beaird Nancy Bicket Kathy Black Doug and Charla Boe Sandy Boe Daryll and Beth Bohrer Marti Bowman Hannah Brown Heidi Brown Lydia and Mike Brown Christy Bryant Cassie Busch Anna Busse Sheli Christianson Hannah Chute Gary and Mindy Coleman Jane and Rod Collins Sharon Danielson Mr. and Mrs. Mike Delaney Brooke DeWolf John and Darlene Dickes Steve and Pat Dickes Jan and Mike Drahozal Joe and Kelly Drahozal George and Lois Drey Bette Ekland Tom and Terry Ekland Stephen and Kay Elliot Jacob and Theresa Fahnle Jack and Micki Fenske

Jenna Fenske Jim and Linda Fenske Barney and Kathy Foley Jeff and Jenny Frieden Richard Galligan Meghan Gerke Blake Gibney Mary and Jeff Gibney Jeanne Giles Patty and Al Gothe Jack and Walda Gustafson Preston and Janan Hall Nell and Mike Hammel Bob and Lauren Hammerberg Trisha Hart Scott Hassenstab Laura Herrig Tim and Katie Hill Stan and Jeanne Hlas John and Sasha Hoffman Marvin and Linda Hoffman Tom and Jean Hoffman Craig and Mary Hovda Logan and Stephanie Hoxie Sue Jennings Dave Justice Joe Justice Ray and Beth Kamin Ray and Jan Kamin Mary and Ralph Kammermeir Ron Keating Kelli Kerton James and Barb Klein Jenny Koechner Ann and Tim Kortemeyer Larry and Maryetta Lampe Mary and Perry Laures Jim Lemke

Dee and Tom Lempka John A. Locher Laura and John Locher Mary Locher Doris Logel Shirley Lukan Megan Lynch Bob and Lori Madrick Bob and Sue Madrick John and Jenni Madrick Pat and Al Maiers Kelly Markham McCartan Family James McEniry Maryanne McEniry Chris and Erin Meyer Tony and Kathy Moeder Leo and Diane Monaghan Shannon Mulcahey Mary Neuwohner John and Ruth Neuzil Lisa Nielsen Rose Nino Mike Noonan Morgan Noonan Mr. and Mrs. Steve Noonan Shawnee Owens Leslie Page Daniel Pape Eve Parrish Mike and Mary Parrish Bonnie and Pat Peacock Tess Pladsen Ashley Pudil Lisa Ramlo Ann and Dave Richardson John Richardson

Tom and Dianna Richardson Wilma Robinson Brian and Dione Ross Greg and Tracy Ross Jack and Sharon Ross Joan Shriver Michael and Mary Schulte Christine Sparks Jerry Stanton Ted Steger Jim and Rita Testin Dave and Karen Thinnes Scott Thompson Wilma Thompson Anna Upah Caryl Valenta Daniel Vega Molly Vipond Tim and Kim Vipond Jody, Hillary, and Amelia VonAnsen Mike and Sue Waldron Gene Wardlaw Matt Wardlaw Lynn Weber Lyle and Shelly Wehr Samantha Wehr Jason and Tori Wenger Alexandria Westlund Jeff and Cheryl Westlund Anne White Terry Whitney JoAnn Willey Christi Williams Wendy Williams Mark and Maureen Zittergruen If you’re interested in receiving The Xpress at your home, please contact Mrs. Kellie Wagner for more information. kellie.wagner@xaviersaints.org

Patrons

14

Xavier High School Sports Saints claim first district title in school history The 2014 football season has been a year full of “firsts” for Coach Duane Schulte and the Saints. With the switch to district football and a change from class 4A to class 3A, the coaches and players have been presented with a unique challenge. Long gone are the days where Xavier’s biggest rival is right down the street and away games are rarely more than 30 minutes away.

The times have changed, yet the rich tradition of Xavier football lives on.

The format of district play has led to primarily all new opponents for the Saints.

Their schedule contained six district games, including meetings with Western Dubuque and a nearby foe, the Marion Indians. The nondistrict schedule included a rematch of last year’s state championship game with Dowling High School in Des Moines, a road game at Davenport Assumption, and a visit from 1A powerhouse Iowa City Regina. This lineup of teams provided a series of struggles for the Saints, with a loss at formerly number one

ranked Dowling, in addition to home losses against a spirited Western Dubuque squad and a talented Regina team.

“The losses were very disappointing but they bonded us closer, especially after we lost against Western Dubuque,” junior receiver Nick Stark said. “After that game, we came to practice more ready to compete and work harder, and it has continued to carry over since then.”

Overall, their record for the regular season was 6-3, finishing 5-1 in district play.

With a convincing 37-6 home win last Friday night against Marion, the Saints were able to clinch their first ever class 3A, district 4 title in school history.

Like Schulte’s past few teams, a stingy defense and powerful running game have been the key to success. Senior linebackers Thomas Ickes and Nic Ekland are the top two tacklers on the team. Ickes has 25 solo tackles with six of them being for a loss. Ekland has also added 19 solo tackles of his own. Senior safety Dylan Eller has provided a spark for

Havertape makes her mark on Washington swimming Swimming for another school may be intimidating, but freshman Lauren Havertape has not let it stop her from being a successful member of the Washington High School team.

“Swimming for a different school has been easier than I thought,” Havertape said.

“The Washington swimmers have been great, and I have enjoyed being a part of the team. I have not felt out of place one bit, and it really has been a great experience.”

Havertape has made her presence known on the Wash swim team by participating in the butterfly medley relay, the 200 freestyle relay, 400 freestyle relay, 50 and 100 freestyle, and the 100 butterfly.

“I really enjoy swimming all strokes and will swim wherever the team needs me,” Havertape said.

Havertape has placed and won in different events, including first place in the 100 backstroke, the 50 free, the 100 butterfly, the 200 medley relay, and the 200 and 400 free relays.

“I think that I did well at

districts,” Havertape said, “I got on the podium for two of my events. I placed top three overall in our medley relay.

I believe we have a lot of potential this year, and I am excited for what is to come for our team.”

Washington placed fifth overall and first in their division.

Grant Gibney Sports Writer

Freshman Lauren Havertape takes a breath while swimming the 100 meter butterfly. Photo submitted.

the defense as well with five interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown.

On the other side of the ball, senior running back Jay Kortemeyer has received the majority of the carries for the Saints. He averages six yards per rushing attempt and is close to reaching the 1,000 yard mark.

First year starter Bryce Schulte (‘17) has had a productive first season at quarterback, accounting for 14 total touchdowns. He has also kept the turnover margin low with only two interceptions throughout the nine game span. However, an inconsistent aerial attack must be improved on if the Saints are looking to return to the dome for the third straight year.

“Some major keys for playoff success will be to do our job, watch film, and to come to practice ready to work hard every single day,” Stark said.

The first playoff game was played October 29 on Saints Field against Charles City.

The offensive line prepares for battle as sophomore quarterback Bryce Schulte makes his pre-snap reads.

Kathleen Parrish photo.

The Saints burst through the banner before one of their games last season. Meghan Gerke photo.

Daniel Richardson Sports Editor

SPORTS TRIVIA! What time did junior cross country runner “Scuba” Steve Culpepper run at the state qualifying meet at West Delaware?

A.16:00 B. 17:28 C. 17:35 D. 17:50

*Email answers to xaviersportstrivia@gmail.com with your answer as the subject to be considered for a prize! Deadline is 3 p.m. on Friday, October 31.

By: Grant Gibney and Mark Wardlaw

October 30, 2014

Sports

Torson commits to University of Nebraska-Omaha for volleyball For most high school seniors participating in fall sports, the declining temperature signifies the end of an era as the athletes try to finish their seasons strong before hanging up their jerseys for the last time. For some of them, however, high school is just the beginning of their athletic career Senior volleyball player Kayla Torson has developed a high school resumé that has caught the eye of collegiate coaches.

The highlights of that resumé include four years as a varsity starter, two MVC Valley Player of the Year awards, two second team all state selections, back-toback conference championships, and just recently passing the benchmark of 1,200 kills. Awards and all state selections have not come out for this season yet, but it is more than possible that list ends up even longer than it is now.

Because of Torson’s high school success and leadership on and off the court, her athletic journey is just beginning. She is set to start her collegiate career at the University of Nebraska-Omaha next season after verbally committing this July.

After making Xavier her home court for the last four years, what is it about UNO that convinced Torson that is where she will be taking her talents? What weighs into the decision of where to call home?

“I met the head coach, the two assistant coaches, and a couple of the players,” Torson said. “The impression they left on me definitely had an effect on

Senior Kayla Torson shows off school spirit for University of Nebraska Omaha. Kellie Wagner photo. my choice. It seemed like their personalities meshed with mine; they were pretty chill, but also very focused and competitive. I loved everything about the school, the campus, the education program, the coaches, the players. It’s hard to explain, but I guess I just got the feeling when I was there that it was the place I wanted to be.”

No matter how perfect the fit at UNO, Torson knows there is still work to do this season.

“For right now,I’m trying to focus on our high school team because that’s what’s happening right now,” Torson said, “but I definitely think about and look forward to college a lot. I keep track of how the team is doing throughout their season.”

She may be thinking about a promising future, but for the time being, Torson is a Saint. She will do everything in her power to lead the team towards their goal.

Ryan Williams Sports Writer

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Dickes, Culpepper run to state The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams battled it out at the Mississippi Valley Conference divisional meet on October 16 in Waterloo.

The girls’ team placed fifth out of seven teams overall in the meet. Junior Jenny Dickes led the squad with a time of 16:00 placing seventh overall.

Sophomore Kiana Stanek finished second for the Saints and twenty sixth overall with a time of 17:35. Sophomore Liz Hessman and senior Maddy Bailey crossed third and fourth for Xavier with times of 17:57 and 18:02.

Sophomore Annie Sigmon and junior Lydia Brown also competed for the Saints. Sophomore Emiko Coffey did not finish due to illness.

The boys’ team also placed fifth out of seven teams in the divisional meet. Junior Steven Culpepper led the Saints with a time of 17:28. Sophomore Nick Koechner crossed the finish line second for Xavier and twentieth overall with a time of 17:50. Freshmen John Pape and Nolan Pithan, junior Jonathon Francois, and seniors Evan Gradoville and Nick Jones also competed for Xavier.

The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams participated in the state qualifying meet on October 23 in West Delaware.

The girls’ team finished fifth out of 11 teams with an overall score of 124 points. The average time for the team was 16:18. Dickes qualified for state and finished fifth overall with a time of 15:11.

“I’m extremely happy with how the team and I finished,”

Juniors Jenny Dickes and Steven Culpepper pose for a photo October 23 after qualifying for state. Photo Submitted Dickes said. “Everyone ran so well and improved their times.”

Coffey finished second for the Saints and sixteenth overall with a time of 15:53.

The boys’ team finished fifth out of 12 teams with a score of 117 points. The average time for the team was 17:25.

Culpepper qualified for state placing sixth with a time of 16:41.

“I’m happy where I finished.

I could have been better, but the goal was to make it to state and I did that,” Culpepper said. “I’m proud of where the team finished.

We had a lot of personal records, and everyone ran amazingly.”

Koechner finished second for Xavier and thirteenth overall with a time of 17:05.

K.J. Giles Assistant Sports Editor

Strong leadership set to lead Saints this winter With fall athletics wrapping up, the winter season is quickly approaching. Some will begin their season as soon as November 10. Basketball, wrestling, bowling, and swimming will all be underway soon.

Boys’ basketball looks promising as a 3A contender for the state championship this year. With returning senior starters Adam McDermott and Calvin Winker, who combined for an average of 29.5 points per game last season, the Saints seem to be in good hands. Regular season practice begins November 17, but that has not stopped the Saints from getting ready for the season.

Pre-season has involved player run practices before school.

Girls’ basketball, coached

by Tom Lilly, is ready to have a positive season as well. Seniors Lizzy Bailey and Morgan Breitbach are

hoping to lead the team to the state tournament.

Similar to the boys’ team, the girls have been practicing before school, even though the season is not in session.

As the season starts, the wrestling team wants to continue the success they acheived last season. Junior Clint Lembeck has big shoes to fill this year. With many leaders gone with graduation after last season, he will be called upon to lead the Saints on the mat.

Sophomore Josh Gerke and junior Jeff Vipond will also take on new responsibilities and look to improve themselves from last year.

The boys’ bowling team looks to have another strong season after a record last season of 9-2. With senior Caleb Miller at the helm, the Saints are looking for another state appearance.

Miller’s two-game best score

of 482 last year leads all returning varsity members.

Girls’ bowling includes senior Kayla Thompson paving the way for the Saints this year.

Thompson’s best two-game score is 309, which earned her second on the team.

“I want to have a good senior year,” Thompson said. “I want to come together as a team and be successful overall.”

They lost a few seniors in the past year, but still have high expectations for the upcoming season.

Boys’ swimming is right around the corner as well.

With two-a-days starting the season and continuing for several grueling months, the team will be pushed to its limits. Senior Evan Bednar is swimming varsity for Kennedy. Evan swims short distance, which is a difficult category because of its need for speed and strength.

“I want to improve from

last year,” Bednar said. “Our coaches expect us to be in the top ten and have more state qualifers this season.”

As of now, the athletes can only prepare and get ready for the season to start. With expectations set high, the Saints will rely on strong leadership and team chemistry to reach their goals.

Luke Koechner Sports Writer

Junior Clint Lembeck battles it out at a meet last season. Meghan Gerke Photo.

Backpage

16

PUMPKIN

October 30, 2014

DID YOU KNOW?

• The Irish brought the tradition of the Jack-O’-Lantern to America • Pumpkins originated in Central America • Pumpkins are fruit • The largest pumpkin pie ever made was over five feet in diameter and weighed over 350 pounds • Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles and curing snake bites

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Jack-O’-Lantern Painted Pumpkin

What types of pumpkins do Xavier students carve?

270 students surveyed

Pumpkin Contest

Submit your best pumpkin to jessica.fenske@beasaint.org by November 6, and the winner will go into next issue! Good Luck!

Page Design By: Jessica Fenske and Ellie Detweiler. Information by: http://www.pumpkinfresh.com