January 23 by Xavier High School Newspaper

January 23rd, 2014, Volume 16, Issue 8

n o i t a r a l i h X & Xuberanc e

Dancing their way to the top!

Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 www.xaviersaints.org www.issuu.com/xpressnewspaper/docs Follow us: @xpressnewspaper Cover design by Meghan Gerke, Photos by Megan Lynch

2 Index

News Opinion Student Life Mini-Feature Feature Health & Lifestyle A&E Sports Backpage

News

2 4 6 7 8 10 11 14 16

Editor-In-Chief Quinlan Moran

Copy Editor

Katherine Bauer

Photo Editor

Meghan Gerke Photographer Maddie Bailey

News Editor

Maria Efting News Assistant Amy Boe News Writers Erin Drahozal Jeff Frieden

Opinion Editor Morgan Noonan Opinion Assistant Nic Ekland Opinion Writers Maddy Bailey Tory Brown Brennan Graeve Chloe Streif Ben Valentine

Student Life Editor Brady Hofman Student Life Assistant Julie Woods

Mini-Feature Editors Rachel Brady Molly Vipond

Feature Editors Jenna Fenske Anna White Feature Assistant Colette Miller Feature Writer Lizzy Bailey

Health and Lifestyle Editor Hannah Chute Health and Lifestyle Assistants Erin Drahozal Jeff Frieden

Arts and Entertainment Editor Emma Hunt Arts and Entertainment Assistant Ashley Pudil Arts and Entertainment Writers Kayla Thompson Julie Woods Ben Valentine Daniel Vega

Sports Editor Shannon Mulcahey Sports Assistant Morgan Brietbach Sports Writers Katherine Bauer Nic Ekland Daniel Vega

Backpage Editors

DeWees travels to Sandy Hook

Adam Lanza walked into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut on December 14, 2012 and fatally shot 20 children and six adults. The event shook the nation, and people’s responses were varied. Some responded with hatred, some with sadness and grief. But for senior Kylie DeWees, it was love. On December 14, 2013, DeWees arrived in Newtown, where she played her music on the one year anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy. The service was held at St. Rose Catholic Church, where DeWees was able to meet with many friends and family of the victims. She brought tears to people’s eyes when they found how caring she was. She received thanks in the form of hugs, smiles, and multiple heartfelt thank you’s. DeWees prepared for this event by composing her own music. After hearing about this devastating story, she became emotionally attached. “I feel as though we all have something special that we can give,” DeWees said. “We all have God given talents. But in the Bible God says if you do not use

The Angel of Hope statue above is the inspiration for the statue to be placed at Xavier. Google Images Photo.

these talents, you will lose them.” DeWees has always been involved in vocal choir, but after the catastrophe she decided to teach herself how to play piano. She created her own music and lyrics, and she has sold over 300 CD’s on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. She has held two events and has raised over $19,000 that will be put toward an Angel of Hope statue that will go on the Xavier campus in April. She has

Fifteen million children spend many lonely days without a positive influence in their lives. They need a mentor to keep them on the right path before they become tomorrow’s high school drop outs, convicts, and drug abusers. The Harvard School of Public Health wrote a prescription for this problem. In 2002, Harvard established a program to find friends and role models for at-risk young adults. Enter National Mentoring Month. Now in its thirteenth year, every aspect of the mentoring system is celebrated each January. National Mentoring Month thanks those who volunteer their lives and hopes to inspire others to join the joy of mentoring. The theme and goal this year is to show the world “Mentoring Works.” Mentoring is not only a life-changing experience for children; it can be just as powerful in the lives of mentors.

“I think a mentor gets a lot of satisfaction. It’s very, very rewarding,” Astronaut John Glenn said. Glenn was the oldest man in space and is an avid supporter of National Mentoring Month. A chance to be part of the solution during Mentoring Month is the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Dr. King continues to be a mentor and role model for millions. In the spirit of MLK, everyone should “have a dream” for how to transform their communities through the service of mentoring. The way to fulfill the dream is by being a positive influence for those who need it most. Mentoring is not a daunting task. Organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters are built to connect at-risk children with perspective mentors. They have a local branch dedicated to changing the Cedar Rapids community for the better.

Business Tory Brown

Distribution Brennan Graeve

Advertising

The Xpress Bi-weekly Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 Volume 16 Issue 8

not kept a single penny for herself. “If everyone uses their God given talents, whether that’s being smart and offering tutoring to other students who struggle, helping coach younger athletes, or simply offering our smiles, we can make this world a better place,” DeWees said. “If we can use our abilities to benefit others without expecting any credit, the world would be a much better place.” DeWees’ inspiration was fueled by a book she recently found, which she had not seen in years. It was a book from Richard Paul Evans, signed, “Kylie, use your God given talents.” She realized this opportunity to do something big and she never lost her motivation to try to help these families cope with their grief. “What Kylie has done for the community of Newtown is unbelievable,” fellow classmate Abby Watson said. “She uses her talents and gifts to help those around her. She truly is an inspiration for us all.” Erin Drahozal News Writer

National Mentoring Month makes a difference

Jenna Fenske Anna White Backpage Assistant Mary Esker

Olivia Rochford

Xavier High School

3905 Center Point Rd NE Cedar Rapids (319) 393-3736

Students mentored by BBBS are 46% less likely to use illegal drugs and 52% less likely to skip school when compared to their mentor-less counterparts. The proactive step of mentoring gets kids off the streets and headed toward the right path. “Our Bigs give their Littles the invaluable gift of friendship,” BBBS Community Outreach Specialist Steve Worthington said. “By simply changing their perspective of what the world can offer, a Big can literally start changing their lives.” Everyday is a new opportunity to mentor. Xavier students can become mentors in easy ways. Helping a classmate to study, leading by example in and out of school, or simply giving advice to friends are all chances to be a Saint and mentor. Tyler Testin HOSA Member

January 23, 2014

News

Jiruska fights against cancer “You’re the man, Nik!” Xavier High School alumnus Nik Jiruska discovered in June of 2013 that he had a form of bone cancer that originated in his left hip called Ewing’s sarcoma. Ewing’s sarcoma is most frequent in teenagers and young adults and needs to be caught early, as it has a chance of spreading to the bone marrow. Nik was lucky enough for the cancer not to spread, but he still had a long battle ahead of him. After months of treatment and with Nik’s last day of chemotherapy approaching near Christmas, his longtime girlfriend, Moleigh Ryther (XHS 10), decided she wanted to do something unique for his Christmas present. “I knew I needed to do something to make his Christmas extraspecial, butdidn’twant it to be a monetary-related gift,” Moleigh said. “I wanted it to have more value than that. It finally came to me that I could use one of my previous talents, video-editing, to bring everyone together to show their love and support.” Nik and Moleigh have been dating for three years, beginning

in September 2010, during their senior year at Xavier. They both currently attend the University of Iowa and are active in their fraternity and sorority. After deciding to make a video for Nik, Moleigh then reached out to everyone who signed up to follow his Care Page through email and Facebook. Her idea was simple: for anyone and everyone to make a video any way they wanted, and to end it with four simple words, “You’re the man, Nik.” One Xavier faculty member, Barb Miltner, received this email and decided the Xavier community should participate. Miltner then contacted other teachers who also follow the page and Xavier marketing director, Nick Ireland, about brainstorming video ideas. After many good ideas, they settled on an option that would include the entire faculty and student body. “Ms. Olson organized the office staff, and they made an iMovie trailer,” Miltner said. “Each department did their own video, and the faculty gathered for a group shot during one of

Moleigh and Nik have been dating since September of 2010. Photo Submitted.

our in- service meetings. Mrs. St. Andrews organized the cheerleaders to head the cheer at the student assembly, spelling out the words with poms.” Moleigh received many clips, including ones from Ashton Kutcher, theUniversity of Indiana, University of Iowa president Sally Mason, friends, family, and many more. The final product turned out to be 48 minutes, but Moleigh cut it down to nine minutes to upload to YouTube. “At first, I wasn’t going to share it, because I wanted it to be especially for Nik,” Moleigh said.

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“However, I gave it some thought. I realized that many people could benefit from the video. Whether a cancer survivor, cancer fighter, care taker, or someone who just needed some good news, Nik’s story needed to be shared.” After gaining the attention of local media and generating nearly 5,000 views and counting, it appears she had the right idea. Nik has now finished chemotherapy and is resuming classes this semester.

www.jostensyearbook.com

$70 Moleigh has stood by Nik throughout the entire chemotherapy process. Photo Submitted.

Amy Boe News Assistant Editor

Opinion

Xavier High School

Personal finance: the right way E a r n i n g money and managing it is all about stress and comfort ability. We would all like to be low-stress and to be fairly comfortable in the future. Many things contribute to your quality of life, but having enough money to live comfortably is one huge factor. First you have to earn the money, if you want to manage it. There are basic things that we can do to earn enough money to be comfortable. It’s not rocket science. Do your best in school, make yourself worth value to employers by working on your social skills and practical skills, find what you are interested in, and go after that job. Once you have that job, you will be able to manage the income you receive. If you think being a millionare is a far-fetched idea, listen to this suggestion. It’s all about starting early: if you start putting $250 each month into a Roth IRA or another investment with an average rate of return when you’re 23 with a full time job, you will have $1.32 million by the time you’re 68! If you decided to start saving later when you “have enough money”:to accomplish earning $1.32 million

by 68, you would have to save $1,390 per month when you’re 43. This stark contrast is due to what some call The 8th Wonder of the World: compounding interest. In life, there will be expenses. So don’t wait to be smart with your money until you are on your own. There are car payments, insurance payments (health, auto, life, home, etc.), house payments, cable bills, utilities bills, phone bills, food, entertainment, clothes, gasoline. Therefore, don’t waste too much money on shoes, video games, or excessively nice jewelry for your girlfriend who you won’t be with in eight months. Get what you need, spend money on rewarding/ fun experiences, treat yourself every once in a while. But try not to be wasteful. Once you have that money saved up, you can put it into a retirement account, mutual fund, or any other investment throughout your life. The sooner, the better with saving. A huge mistake that many people make when it comes to saving their money is that they don’t “pay themselves first.” This means that when you get your paycheck, you automatically have a percentage of your money go into an investment account. This is money you don’t touch; it sits and grows over time.

The majority of people don’t do this and plan to save what’s left over, and thus end up not saving at all. Also, another incentive to save is that many employers will match a percentage of what you put into your investments, creating more wealth. It’s not easy to make money and manage it all. Two vitally important factors to creating more wealth are sacrifice and discipline. Do I choose to buy the 65-inch television, or do I choose to buy the 32-inch television that does about the same thing? Do I choose to buy the $500,000 house or the $175,000 house with everything I need? Do I choose to buy the $30,000 car or the $10,000 car that will get me from A to B? It’s not always fun and appealing to accrue wealth. It’s about daily decisions to LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS and to live humbly. Another point that needs to be made about money is that you need to be generous and selfless with it. Tip well, give to the Church, and give to other worthy charities. There are also things worth spending money on: Catholic school, college education, and fruitful, rewarding experiences like family vacations or retreats. Give God what belongs to God and donate at least 10% of your income to The Church or other worthy charities (after all, He gave

you all the abilities you have to be able to earn that money in the first place). Then turn around and “pay yourself” 10% into investments. Always remember Matthew 7:33 “But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.”

Ben Valentine Opinion Writer

Saintly

Forget about the five percent Yes, they are obviously thin and it is their choice to be that way, just like it’s an athlete’s choice to be muscular or a sumo wrestler’s choice to be fat. It is obvious that society judges and that will never change, but as young women we should be happy with the bodies we are blessed with. It’s always good to have goals to be in shape or try and obtain our “dream bodies” in a healthy way, but we shouldn’t bring it upon ourselves to try and be part of that 5%.

Remember the days when a question used to be a question. That wasn’t a command, and no, I did not forget the question mark. In modern day oral communication, it has become rather common to greet someone with a fake question, and I’m campaigning for an end to this robotic interaction. My slogan: Let’s keep the question genuine, folks. My personal definition of a fake question is a question that is stated rather than asked and is done so without the intent of a response. I am not referring to a

rhetorical question, which is also asked without the expectation of a response. Specifically, I am talking about the use of a question in the form of a greeting, when the greeter asks the question without wanting a response. Let me clarify with an example: you’re walking down the hall, and as a classmate passes by going the opposite direction, they say, “How’s it going?” and continue walking without even pausing for a response. Does “Hello” no longer suffice? Do they want me to stop and answer their question in a voice loud enough to be heard from 10 feet away? “IT’S GOING FANTASTIC!!! THANKS FOR ASKING!!!”

I miss the days where a simple greeting of hello was formal enough and wasn’t looked upon as being selfish. In today’s time, it has almost become a necessity to start a conversation with, “How are you doing?” If I am in fact doing subpar, would you like to hear all about the woes bringing me down? If so, please ask me a question and let’s have a genuine conversation. If you are simply looking for a one-word response, though, I ask that you refrain from a fake ask.

Maddie Bailey Opinion Writer

Keep the questions genuine

Nic Ekland Opinion Assistant Editor

Satanly <

by referring to the well-known, chubby southerner called Honey Boo Boo, and others took the opportunity to bash the figure of the models. Although the tweets were entertaining, they made me wonder why people would put so much thought into something that never directly affects them. There are currently seven “angels” who work for Victoria’s Secret, and I think we can all assume that none of us will ever get one of those seven magical spots. If you never plan on working as a fashion model for Victoria’s Secret, then why are we so quick to compare ourselves to them?

Only 5% of women have the body type that is portrayed in today’s media. So why is everyone so worried about looking like them? While scrolling through my twitter feed on December 10 (the date of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show), I saw a wide variety of responses to the skinny girls walking down the runway. Some people saw the show as motivation to improve their body image, others made fun of themselves

January 23, 2014

Opinion

Peace, love, and save the whales In 2010, S e a Wo r l d trainer Dawn Brancheau sat near the edge of a 1.6 million gallon pool in Orlando, Florida, where the beloved six ton male orca Tilikum loomed. Brancheau and Tilikum had just finished performing a show, which included Tilikum executing a variety of behaviors to entertain a host of curious tourists. Brancheau, crouched on a shallow ledge built on the side of the pool, embraced Tilikum, stroking his back and congratulating him on another successful show. What happened seconds later sparked insurmountable horror. Tilikum grabbed Brancheau’s pony tail and dragged her into the pool. With a firm grip on her helpless body, he violently shook her. SeaWorld staff and emergency crew began to take measures to force the animal to stop, but Tilikum was relentless. The whale was finally lifted out of the water, with Brancheau still clenched. Trainers pried open Tilikum’s mouth, and Brancheau’s arm fell off. Paramedics couldn’t find her heartbeat. A white sheet was placed over Dawn Brancheau’s body; she was dead. This story is the basis

for the 2013 documentary “Blackfish” directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite. The documentary tells of the danger of keeping orcas in captivity for the sake of the multi-billion dollar sea-park industry. The movie includes uncomfortable footage of trainers being injured by orcas in captivity, as well as interviews with many of SeaWorld’s former trainers who testify to the inherent intelligence of these animals, the uneasiness of keeping hostage hundreds of whales, and the flagrant corruption that lays within SeaWorld. “Blackfish” left me in shock. There was no way that what I had just watched could be considered the least bit ethical. However, I still remained very curious about what the natural behaviors of orcas are in the wild compared to in captivity. What I learned speaks for itself. In the wild, male and female orcas have a typical lifespan of approximately 30 and 50 years, respectively. In captivity, a majority of orcas die at just 10 years of age. This reality is due to the fact that, in captivity, orcas are completely deprived of their natural habitat and behaviors. So what is a wild orca like? They are majestical, intellectual, and even tempered animals. They

travel in families, sometimes 100 miles per day. There have been no known reports of wild orca attacks on humans. Captive orcas contrast dramatically. The whales live in tanks that are mere meters long. The whales receive little stimulation, which drives them insane. They are stressed out, torn from their families, and forced to learn circus-like behaviors. Since the 1960’s when whale entertainment began, there have been over 40 reports of captive whales injuring human trainers. Tilikum alone has killed three people. It’s no secret that orcas are acting out because of their captivity. SeaWorld has responded to the claims presented in “Blackfish” by making statements which reiterate the good that the company does by taking care of animals, preserving natural habitats, and funding animal research. All of this is true, and I applaud SeaWorld for these efforts. However, the captivity of orcas seems to be overlooked, and this infuriates me. It’s time for a change. This is an issue of profit being more important than animal welfare. SeaWorld is a multi-billion dollar company, and its whale shows are its main attraction. The orcas are being commercialized,

A few people have a fairly serious addiction... online shopping. It’s the easiest way to shop because you don’t have to get up and drive somewhere, and you never have to see the money you spend. However, all this shopping plus the money we might spend at the mall or even a grocery store really adds up. I guess I could say I’m a bit of a shopaholic, and now that my work is closed for the winter, I’m not receiving a paycheck every couple weeks. It’s made me realize how much money I spend since I’m not refilling my checking account. I don’t like sounding like your mom (not that she’s a bad person or anything), but do you really need more...stuff? Our world has become so material based, I think we forget where our priorities lie. Yes, I know the excited feeling we get when we see that BOGO 50% off email from our favorite online shop, and it’s not bad to check out

all the good deals. Sometimes I will put everything I like in the shopping bag, then go back and reevaluate what I need and what I want. Another idea is to leave the items in the shopping bag for a couple days and mull it over. When I shop online and I’m about to check out, I’ve been able to stop and question myself on whether I really need those items or not. Either that or I’m too lazy to go look up my credit

card number to finish ordering. I believe that it is important to think about what we are going to buy before getting it. If you feel you don’t really need it, then you probably don’t. You and can save that money for those ramen noodles in college. Spend wisely.

Perks of online shopping

Chloe Streif Opinion Writer

and money is the only thing that matters. If SeaWorld really cared about the well-being of animals, it wouldn’t be taking advantage of the animals’ right to a free and peaceful life. The first step in rectifying this problem is to become informed. You can do this by watching Blackfish, but don’t take this documentary as the epitome of all information on whales. Go online, learn more about orca behaviors, and about their time in the wild versus captivity. Stop supporting SeaWorld. Write to our senators about creating laws to eliminate whale captivity. Or just simply spread the word. Keeping orcas captive is simply cruel, and I don’t want to be known as the generation that supported it. It’s time to save the blackfish. Maria Efting News Editor

Hall Talk “YAAASS” y pp d s a H an . I id ay sa hday d d h?” “I irt goo muc B a o e to v ha hat t

“The iPocalypse is upon us.”

mis “Com mo c 1x1 oncep n doe tion equ s n : al ot 2.”

“I heard Emma is engaged to a sophomore.” Sales tempt shoppers to buy more than their means can supply. AP Images photo.

Xavier High School

Student Life

A look beyond the collar HOW WELL DO YOU REALLY KNOW THE PRIESTs IN YOUR COMMUNITY? 1. How old you were when you wanted to become a priest? 2. When you were younger, what did you want to be (occupation)? 3. What is your favorite movie? 4. How many siblings do you have? 5. How many different parishes have you been a pastor at?

6. What is your middle name? 7. Who is your favorite Saint? 8. What is your ideal vacation? 9. What is your favorite food? 10. What was your favorite childhood toy?

Father Dustin Vu Blessed John XIII

1. 27 2. In Vietnam, you live day by day. You become whatever happens to make you money 3. I cannot decide 4. Five brothers- (two deceased), two sisters 5. Blessed John XXIII is my first parish 6. Long 7. St. Joseph, because he was so humble and always put Mary and Jesus before himself 8. I would love to go on a cruise 9. A greasy Cheeseburger 10. In Vietnam we did not have toys “Being a priest is very humbling because I know all power is His and He can work though anybody including this unworthy Father Vu.”

Father Ivan Nienhaus

St. Patrick of Cedar Rapids

1. Fifth grade 2. A medical doctor 3. ‘Brideshead Revisited’ 4. Two brothers, one sister 5. Six different parishes, three of them were St. Patrick churches 6. Richard 7. John the Baptist and St. John the Beloved Apostle 8. Anytime I am in Poland 9. Good Italian food 10. Five speed bicycle I received in the fourth grade “The world of being a priest is a combination of learning, prayer and participating in acts of charity. It is a special life due to the fact that one has been called by God to live this way.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE Ben Valentine Senior

“My sophomore year, I began thinking about the Priesthood. I am considering going into the seminary. I still have a lot to learn before I make my decision. If I did become a Priest, my goal would be to bring God to the people.”

Page Design and Information Collected by Brady Hoffman Information Collected by Julie Woods

Jeff Frieden Junior

“I started considering the priesthood in first grade. I would like to go to the seminary right out of high school. To me it has never been a question whether or not I’m called to be a priest. When there’s been a question, it’s been wether or not I am going to answer the call.”

Mini-Feature

January 23, 2014

Convince your teacher to spend class outside

Go all out for themed activites

Get involved in a new Xavier activity

Enroll in a class with Mr. O’Brien

Befriend a custodian

10 things to do before graduation

6 7

Attend Kairos Travel out of state on a school trip. Above is last year’s inauguration trip #saintsinaug

Ask her out already! “No Ragrets” - Scottie P. We’re the Millers

Try something new each month

10 Leave your mark on XHS history!

Page Design by Molly Vipond and Rachel Brady Photos by Meghan Gerke and Molly Vipond

Feat

8 January 23, 2014

The Power

Yoga has been practiced among people for popular once again. Not only is yoga a gre body and improve flexibility, one can find Below are some poses specific to certain leggings and actually use your yoga pan

Page Design: Anna White. Pictures: Colette Miller. Information: http://life.gaiam.com/article/whats-meaning-behind-your-favorite-yoga-pose

Animal inspired poses: Cobra

The Cobra Pose signifies the faith and courage it takes to rise above the material world and peer into the unknown spiritual world. Once the upper body is poised above the ground, one must accept whatever it is one sees from this new vista.

Nature inspired poses: Tree

The Tree Pose reflects the strong but flexible nature, cooperation with animals, and itsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability to exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen, which are all selfless qualities of trees. During this pose, one should ask how they cooperate and support others.

Pigeon Pigeons symbolize assurance, confidence in challenging situations, and a feeling of security that allows a positive sense of pride about who one really is. Tapping into the joy of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power and talent through this pose can help develop confidence and assurance.

Sun

The Sun Salutation is actually a collection of poses reflecting the intensity of the sun. The sun is the epitome of fire and while fire can destroy, it also purifies and renews. While performing this set of poses, heat purifies oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s system while seeking enlightenment.

Tool inspired poses: Plough

The Plough Pose constricts breathing which mirrors how one handles various mental and physical restrictions and uncovers pushing boundaries. Empowerment and the planting of seeds growing into new growth results from this pose.

Bow

When in the Bow Pose, one must treat his or her body like a bow, challenging it and learning to use it effectively. One should think about the goals he or she i pointing and aiming their bow at.

ture

Xavier High School

r of Yoga

r centuries and has recently become eat way to strengthen muscles in the peace, balance and enlightenment. n mind sets. So ladies, put on your nts for what they were made for!

e is

Eagle An eagle obtains the gift of clear sight which directly relates to concentration developed in yoga. While settling into this pose, one’s purpose becomes clearer. Clear vision exists when the mind is focused and calm.

Top 5 Yoga Studios In Eastern Ia #1 Fusion Studio 600 3rd Street SE Cedar Rapids

#2 Hot House Yoga 12th Avenue Ext NE Coralville

#3 Hands in Harmony

1615 32nd Street NE Lower Level, Premier Dental Building Cedar Rapids

#4 Rivercity Pilates

Moon

The moon is often associated with feminine energy that goes through phases which affects life on earth. Yoga helps to harmonize opposing energies through the moon and sun poses, contributing to a balanced life. The Moon Pose influences emotions, which is what one should focus on during this pose.

595 Ashley Court, Suite 6 North Liberty

#5 Heat Yoga Studio & Spa 3607 1st Avenue SE #C Cedar Rapids

(Based on KCRG’s A-List)

Wheel

The wheel is the number zero and a circle which symbolize eternity: all emanates from and returns to the universe in an endless circle. While in the Wheel Pose, one must try to imitate a wheel’s ability to move through different landscapes while remaining constant, unaffected, and stable.

“The senior class did a short unit on yoga during gym class. It was very relaxing and peaceful. It put me in the right state of mind even though I am not very flexible. I would definitely do it again.”

-Frankie Woods ‘14

Health & Lifestyle

Xavier High School

YOUR DAY OFF

As snow days are becoming more and more common, how will you spend the day off?

Shows on Netflix

Movies

About Time The Heat 13 Going on 30 The Great Gatsby Dear John

Nails

Tape off sections of the nails and paint them different colors.

Books

Safe Haven First Love Allegiant Notebook PS I Love you

GIRLS

Top Board Games

Smoothie

Mix cold cream, yogurt, honey, aloe vera, and avocado in a blender and put it on the face for 15-20 minutes to rehydrate skin.

hedbanz apples to apples sequence catch phrase spoons

VS. BOYS

Movies

Shows on Netflix

Django Unchained Man of Steel Prisoners Hobbit Place Beyond the Pines

rom A scene f ned nchai Django U

Books

Game of Thrones The Enemy Series The Cherub Series Maze Runner Alex Rider Series

Downtown Abbey Scandal One Tree Hill New Girl Pretty Little Liars

League Parks and Recreation Sons of Anarchy Breaking Bad How I Met Your Mother

Top Video Games

Conc

ept ar t Duty: for Call o f Ghos ts

Grand Theft Auto V The Last of Us Call of Duty Super Mario 3D World The Legend of Zelda

Page Design: Hannah Chute, Jeff Frieden, and Erin Drahozal. Information from: www.newsday.com, www.techland.time.com, and www.bathandbodyworks.com. Pictures from AP Images.

January 23, 2014

Comics with Keefe

A&E

New Year, New Me... Right?

Emma Keefe Comic Artist

“Frozen” movie review Almost everyone in the area has heard of the new movie by Disney called “Frozen.” This movie has been at the top of the box office for seven weeks now and has taken the nation by storm. It also won a Golden Globe for Best Animated Movie of the Year, beating out “Despicable Me 2” and “The Croods.” “Frozen” is currently the third highest grossing animated film after movies including “The Lion King” and “Up.” There are also future plans for the movie to become a broadway musical. Actress Idina Menzel plays a young queen named Elsa who has the mysterious power to make ice and snow with her hands. Her younger sister, Anna, played by the talented Kristen Bell, wishes to get out of the castle that she’s been cooped up in her whole life. They live in a small kingdom called Arendelle in Norway around the year 1700-1800. At Elsa’s coronation, things get out of control, and she leaves the town in a deep and dreadful winter. She runs away, but Anna is determined to prove her sister’s innocence and make the seasons right again. On her way, she makes the unlikely acquaintance of an ice maker named Kristoff and a talking snowman named Olaf. Friendships

are made and trusts are broken while songs sum up the moods and tensions of this fast action animation. Olaf chimes in with, “Some people are worth melting for,” after a heartbreaking scene. The themes of the true meaning of love in family and independence reign true. I give this movie a 5 out of 5 stars. It planted seeds of thought and songs that stayed in my head for days after. Happy moments caused giggles and laughs, making me feel like the numerous children in the theater. The sharp plot line had ties to my heart and caused tears of both joy and heartbreak. No matter what age you may be, there are important lessons to be taken from the movie. This is very worth the hour and forty five minute running time, even the bonus snow monster clip after the credits. I would recommend this movie to anyone and everyone.

an audience before competition.” Xhilaration had their first competition on January 11 at Prairie High School and placed fifth while senior Angelica Elkema won Best Female Soloist. “It felt absolutely amazing winning the award,” Elkema said. “It was a huge honor to receive it. There were so many talented soloists at the competition, so it felt great!” Xuberance joined them in Waukee on Saturday, January 18. Xuberance received __ in the prep division, and Xhilaration made it into finals placing sixth. Ballad

soloist Harry Daubitz also won Best Male Soloist. The show choirs could not perform without the combo led by Mr. Dennis Wymore along with the tech crew. All directors are looking forward to a great season. “As a group, I think our goal is to work hard in both practices and performances,” Elkema said. “We have an amazing show, and we all want to do it justice.” The show choirs will have their next competition on Saturday, February 8 in Mount Pleasant.

Julie Woods A&E Writer

Show choirs begin their competition season Students auditioned in May last school year to be a part of either the varsity Xhilaration or the junior varsity Xuberance show choir groups for this year. They have been working tirelessly to learn their songs and their routines since August. Xhilaration is directed by choir director Mr. Matt Walker and Xuberance is led by Mrs. Jaclyn Hussey. The Xhilaration theme for their show is Take the World Back, which includes the songs: “Closer to the Edge,” “Come Dance with Me,” “Come Home,” “25 or 6 to

4,” “Rock What You’ve Got,” and “The Phoenix.” Xuberance’s show is called Be Brave, Rise Above. Their set list includes: “People Like Us,” “Beauty and Ugly,” “Be Still,” “Brave,” and “Wings.” The show choirs kicked off the season with their annual Xhibition show on January 3. Both show choirs performed their shows for family and friends. “It’s our kickoff show for the season,” Hussey said. “It’s the first opportunity for family and friends to see the show before we compete and it gives them (the performers)

Benton Touch of Class February 15

Waukee Star Struck January 18

Xhibition January 3 Prairie Premiere January 11

Mt. Pleasant Music In Motion February 8

Xhilaration sings and dances their closer, “The Phoenix,” at Xhibition. Megan Lynch Photo.

Xavier Xtravaganza March 8 Kennedy Final Show Raise the Roof March 13 March 1

Xuberance dances to “Brave,” while soloist freshman Kaitryn Williams sings. Megan Lynch Photo. Kayla Thompson A&E Writer

A&E

Xavier High School

Spotlight: Dancers at Xavier High School In addition to performers on the theater stage and show choir risers, Xavier has performers that compete and perform outside of school. Read below to learn about some of Xavier’s most wellknown dancers!

Senior Emma Hunt

Where do you dance? Affect Dance Company at Nolte Academy, Coralville How long have you been dancing? 11 years Practices four days a week for ten hours Favorite dance genre: Contemporary “My contemporary group qualified for the Top Four at Nationals last summer, and I placed third in a duet as well.”

Junior Emma Houser

Where do you dance? Kate Carol and Company, Iowa City How long have you been dancing? 13-14 years Practices three to four times a week Favorite dance genre: Ballet “I have been accepted to ten national and international schools that offer ballet, including a summer intensive.”

Submitted and Portrait Inovations Photos.

Sophomore Hadley Shriver Freshman Catherine White

Where do you dance? Prestige Dance Studio, Cedar Rapids How long have you been dancing? 5 years Practices four to five days per week after school Favorite dance genre: Contemporary “I start competition season at the end of January, and I enjoy dancing and being with my friends.”

Where do you dance? National Dance Academy, Cedar Rapids How long have you been dancing? 14 years Practices five days a week at her studio Favorite dance genre: Pointe “A big benefit for me has been my increased flexbility over the years.”

Ashley Pudil A&E Assistant Editor

A&E

January 23, 2014

Schulte’s St. Jude Novena Anyone who has ever had Coach Schulte as a teacher was lucky enough to learn about this prayer, but not everyone knows the gimmick behind it.

Ponder This...

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved, and preserved throughout the World, now and forever Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Amen

With Ben and Dano

Say this prayer nine times a day for nine days in a row with a reasonable intention in mind, and after the ninth day, publish the prayer in a reasonably circulated publication (such as The Xpress), then the intention will be fulfilled. “I have said this prayer in class for the past 14-15 years because all of us will find ourselves in a spot sometime in our lives where Entities more powerful than us are needed. For me, St. Jude has been helpful.” -Coach Duane Schulte

What is the greatest venue of sports in America? Sports are a huge part of the American culture. The stadiums that these sports take place in can be historic, and the debate is now on to see which is the greatest. We surveyed Xavier students and received 160 responses. Here are the results: Lambeau Field Rose Bowl Wrigley Field Madison Square Garden Fenway Park Yankee Stadium Cowboys Stadium Century Link Field 60 50 40 30

“I think the Rose Bowl is the greatest because all of the games there get crazy and are very historic.” -Senior Adam Millsap

20 10 Ben Valentine & Daniel Vega Opinion Writer & Sports Writer Kermit and Florence Alveshere Alan Anton Joan and Peter Bailey Bryan Banowetz Jim and Judy Bauer Linda Bauer Kenneth and Rosemary Bauer Doug and Char Boe Sandra Boe Dorrance and Shirley Brady Mark and Janice Brady Scott and Tammie Brady Jill Breitbach Lora Breitbach Hannah Brown Lydia and Mike Brown Chris and James Bryant Cassie Busch Larry and Marjory Bushaw Anna Busse Jeff and Michele Busse Monica Busse Colleen Camp Bill Christianson Matt and Tracie Chute Mr and Mrs Robert Chute Mindy and Gary Coleman Jane and Rob Collins Morty and Mona Lisa Cooksey Clark and Kathy Cunningham Carol and Pat Deignan Mike and Karen Delaney Dave and Laura Diebold Dave and Melissa Dostal

Jan and Mike Drahozal Joe and Kelly Drahozal Dave and Polly Draker Nicole Draker Bill and Lu Efting Jim and Liz Efting Ryan Ekland Tom and Terry Ekland Steve and Kay Elliott Carl and Carol Esker Mike and Jody Esker Tracie Fabiano Jake and Theresa Fahnle Doug Feltes Jack and Micki Fenske Jim and Linda Fenske Jenny and Jeff Frieden Mike Frieden Dick Galligan Gene and Betty Gerke Julie and Joe Gerke Michael Graeve Tracy Graeve Mike and Kathy Gravel Diane Hansen Paul and Bryn Hayes Tracie and Brian Hazelett Dutch and Ock Herrig Laura M Herrig Mike and Wendy Herrig John and Sasha Hoffman Marvin and Linda Hoffman Mike and Courtney Hoffman Allyson Hovda

Dick and Pam Hunt Virgil and Carlyn Hunt The Janney Family Cindy Jensen Jeanne Joens John and Con Inc. Ray and Beth Kamin Ray and Jan Kamin Katy Karas Kelli Kerton Gene and Sally Kopecky Ann and Tim Kortemeyer Mary Levett Paula and Jim Levett Dave and Sharon Loecher Doris Logel Dan and Donna Lynch Megan Lynch Jeanne and Gerry MacEachern Brennan McAllister Bill and Mary Lou McCartan Kerry McCartan Will McCartan Father Tom McDermott Tom and Mary McGivern Maureen and Jason McHugh Liz Miller Mr and Mrs Duane Miller MobileDemand Leo and Diane Monaghan Ann Moran Julie Moran Regan Moran John and Ruth Neuzil

Bob and Mary Tarbox Nicholason Makenzie Noonan Mike Noonan Steve and Janet Noonan Nixie Olderburg Daniel Pape Chris and Roberta Peters Powell Chiropractic Kevin and Denise Pudil Rosie Pudil Ann and Dave Richardson John Richardson Tom and Dianna Richardson Peyton Rosencrants Denny and Karan Ruzicka Mr and Mrs Richard Saunders Joe and Barb Schmall Mr and Mrs Jason Schmidt Colleen and Randy Scholer Mike and Mary Pat Schulte Don and Patricia Sima Maddie Smith Hailey Sojka Mairlynn Sonderman Becky and Brad Stovie Marisa and Richard Sullivan Dave and Karen Thinnes Matthew Thommanna Wilma Thompson Scott Thompson Family Fred and Bev Timko Tom Troester Bev Valant Douger and Amers Valentine

Patrons

Mary Lou Valentine Abbe Vega Carlos and Amy Vega Domingo and Katie Vega Michael and Shelley Waldron Mike and Sue Waldron Jerry and Betty Weiland Jeff and Cheryl Westlund Anne White Terry and Janet Whitney Lynn and Lynn Woellert Corbin Woods Elizabeth Woods Gerald M. Woods Greg and Nancy Wymore James and Elizabeth Zook

If you’re interested in receiving The Xpress at your home, please contact Mrs. Kellie Wagner for more information. kellie.wagner@ xaviersaints.org

Sports

Young Saints shine With only five seniors, the Xavier basketball team is led by underclassmen juniors Adam McDermott and Calvin Winker. McDermott leads the Saints in every category except field goal percentage and free throw percentage. “It is nice helping the team out,” McDermott said. “I believe the best asset of my game is shooting the three ball.” McDermott had a game high of 23 points against Mt. Pleasant which was the first game of the year. The junior sharpshooter has roughly 200 points on the year and is adding to that number as the season heats up. He adds nearly 30 assists and 20 steals to his resume that blends well with the scoring. McDermott is not the only junior on this underclassmen filled team. He is joined by Winker. Winker, like McDermott, is on his second year of varsity basketball. Winker brings height, quickness, and shooting for the Saints. He can drive to the hole

as well as shoot the long ball. Winker has his season going smoothly with almost 130 points to go along with nearly 20 assists, almost 10 steals, and three blocks. “I like to drive or shoot the pull-up jumper,” Winker said. “Our teammates have helped get me open. They have good vision and they get me the ball when I’m available.” At times this team will have no seniors on the court. “Calvin and I have been playing since around fifth grade,” McDermott said. “We’ve built up a great team chemistry over the years.” The young basketball team takes the floor against Waterloo West on Thursday, January 23. Look for McDermott and Winker to lead the surge.

Daniel Vega Sports Writer

Xavier High School

Sports Poll

Would you rather watch collegiate sports or professional sports? College sports

71%

Professional sports

29%

197 students polled

“College sports are very pure and the players play for the love of the game.” Jay Kortemeyer ‘15

“Professional sports seem like it is faster paced. The best part is the large fan base.” Nolan Dostal ‘17

Information by Shannon Mulcahey, Photos by Ashley Pudil

National Letters of Intent Five Xavier seniors have signed National Letters of Intent this school year. By signing a National Letter of Intent, the student is agreeing to attend the designated college for an academic year. The college provides financial aid in forms of athletic scholarships to the student.

“It was a relief to sign early so I would know my plans next year were set. It was nice so I could really focus on the upcoming golf season. Next year I want to improve my game and contribute to the UNI golf team the best I can.”

Maddie Bertsch

Seniors who have signed National Letters of Intent: Jacob Herndon Cross Country

Mount Mercy University

Maddie Bertsch Golf

University of Northern Iowa

Marinna Schroud Mount Mercy University Cross Country & Track Matt Nelson Football

University of Iowa

Mitch Keller Baseball

University of North Carolina

“Signing last year in the spring took a lot of stress out of my senior year in trying to find a college to play at. My goals for my first year are to be a starting pitcher.” Mitch Keller

Information gathered by Shannon Mulcahey, Photos by Maddy Bailey Marinna Schroud

“Signing early gives me the added advantage of knowing ahead of time that I made the right decision for my future. My goals are to beat my previous cross country times and to make new memories with a new team.”

January 23, 2014

Sports

Drahozal breaks personal record with 100th win Four years, 100 wins. Senior Nick Drahozal reached his 100th wrestling win on Saturday, January 10 at the Linn-Mar duals. “It’s exciting to get the 100th win since it took a lot of dedication and hard work to finally get it,” Drahozal said. He is currently ranked sixth place in the 3A division and has been wrestling at the 145 pound weight class. “He is continuing to improve each week and reaching his goals

along the way,” Coach Kevin Murry said. “His next goals to attain are the career win record, MVC champ, state qualifier and state placewinner. This 100th win was the first step along the way.” Drahozal has a huge opportunity to reach the school record of 109 wins in four years, a record previously set by his older brother David Drahozal who graduated in 2006. “I’ve been hoping to beat the record since I was a freshman,”

Drahozal works at turning his opponent in order to get a pin in his last match at the Linn-Mar Lion duals. Meghan Gerke Photo.

Drahozal said. “A big factor is because my brother shares the record with Jamie Colwell and it would be cool to steal the title from him. Getting to 109 wins adds a little bit more excitement and anticipation leading up to the end of the season.” Two other Xavier wrestlers have been ranked within the division. Sophomore Clint Lembeck is ranked sixth in the 126 weight class, and senior Cole Turner is ranked seventh in the heavyweight class. The state wrestling tournament does not start until February 19, but that is not Senior Nick Drahozal poses with causing the team to slow down. his poster and balloons after he “I hope the season keeps going pins his opponnent for his 100th the way it began,” said Drahozal, win. Meghan Gerke Photo. “where everyone keeps working hard and staying healthy.” in their third place finish. Drahozal and the Saints Xavier’s best meet this season happened at the Webster continue competing at Iowa City Duals on January 4 where City High, Thursday, January 23. the Saints took third place. Drahozal was able to pin two of his opponents in less than Shannon Mulcahey Sports Editor 50 seconds to aid the Saints

Bowling steadily improves Girls overcome tough schedule Ask any team in any sport what their goal is, and a majority of them will tell you improvement. That’s exactly what both the Xavier boys’ and girls’ bowling teams are doing. Just last year, the boys ended with a 29 record. This year, they have yet to lose a meet and sit at a 7-0 record. Despite the lacking number of girls, they steadily improve each match. Both teams are excited for the rest of the season. “The team has really gotten close,” junior Brett Young. “We are always helping each other when we begin to struggle,” junior Brett Young said. They are in the top 20 in the state for match score average with 2,945.3 as their average per match,

Junior Caleb Miller rolls a bowling ball in preparation for the upcoming week’s meet. Shannon Mulcahey Photo.

improving from 2,909.8 last year. “We are improving at practice and at meets, and we are fixing bad habits we have to get better,” Young said. The Saints beat Prairie January 3, their first meet back from break, 2959 to 2885. Senior Zach Klimesh had the high series of 419, and senior Zach Schnoebelen had the game high for the Saints with a 242. The boys then took on Washington at Lancer Lanes January 10 and won 2831 to 2621. Young had the game high of 234, and junior Caleb Miller had the series high of 410. “It’s just been fun learning new ways to get better at our bowling games,” Young said. Despite their deceptive 0-7 record, the girls continue to improve from game to game. With the addition of senior Katie O’Brien, the Saints are now able to field a full varsity roster. O’Brien had a series high of 310 at her first meet back against Washington January 10. The Saints take on Linn-Mar at the Cedar Rapids Bowling Center on Friday, January 24.

Morgan Breitbach Sports Assistant Editor

As the New Year begins, the goal for the Xavier girls’ basketball team remains the same: to win by playing as a team. “The team chemistry is awesome right now,” senior Hayley Deutmeyer said. “We are playing together as one unit and that makes it really fun,”. The Saints (7-7 overall, 4-4 MVC) are faring well as they near the halfway point of the season, especially considering the brutal schedule they have faced playing against much bigger 5A competition. They suffered a key loss in the off-season, when sophomore Mckenna Andersen tore her ACL, taking her out for the entire season. She had played important minutes as a freshman on the 2012 state championship team. “It’s hard watching your teammates play and endure practices without being out there with them,” Andersen said. The loss of Andersen was substantial, and the Saints are still trying to replace her. “I’m working hard to rehab right now, and God willing I’ll be back next season.” The Saints suffered two hard-fought defeats against highly ranked schools, losing 55-31 to the number two ranked Des Moines Valley and 5446 to the number six ranked Cedar Rapids Kennedy Cougars. Senior night was hosted in the Ron Thillen gymnasium on

Senior Abby Watson shoots a free-throw during the senior night game against Dubuque Wahlert. The Saints went on to win 63-31. Payton Janney Photo.

Friday, January 17. The Saints beat Dubuque Wahlert, 63-31. The Saints are looking to bounce back this season and play the Linn-Mar Lions on Friday, January 24.

Nic Ekland Sports Writer

Backpage

January 23, 2014

NETFLIX Netflix Statistics

• There are 29.8 million Netflix subscribers in the United States and 7.75 million subscribers outside of the United States • Streaming in over 40 countries around the world • Members have watched over two billion hours of streamed video 25.8%

Top Picks for Xavier • • • •

I don’t watch Netflix 1-2 hours per day 3-4 hours per day 5-6 hours per day 7+ hours per day

22.2% Gossip Girl 11.8% Breaking Bad 9% The Walking Dead 57% Other

49.2%

1.9%

4.5% 18.6%

How often do Xavier students watch Netflix? Based on a survey of 266 students

Popular on Netflix THE

Pretty Little Liars how I

Br eaking Ba d

DEXTER

5 seasons-54 episodes Averages 48 minutes an episode

8 seasons-96 episodes Averages 55 minutes an episode

WALKING DEAD

Haley Jensen 2014

I watch American Horror Story everyday. Usually, I watch one to two episodes just because I can! Get Netflix, it will change your life.

Annie Efting 2016

I finished Gossip Girl in about a month and a half. It’s a really entertaining show! I also like to watch 90210 and Safe Haven.

met your

mother

8 seasons-184 episodes Averages 21 minutes an episode

3 seasons-71 episodes Averages 44 minutes an episode

3 seasons-35 episodes Averages 45 minutes an episode

Grace Nesseth 2015

Right now, I am watching Greek. I have already watched One Tree Hill, The Lying Games, Gossip Girl and Scandal. My favorite movie is The Lorax.

John Le 2017

I love The Walking Dead! I finished it in a week over Christmas Break. I don’t know why anyone would not have Netflix.

Page Design: Jenna Fenske Pictures and Information: Mary Esker, Google Images