Xavier High School6300 42nd St. NECedar Rapids, IA 52411www.xaviersaints.orgwww.issuu.com/xpressnewspaper/docsFollow us: @xpressnewspaper

May 8, 2014 Volume 16, Issue 14

Xaviertakes

a trip

through

the

Galaxy

Cover design and photos by Meghan Gerke

IndexNewsOpinionStudent LifeMini-FeatureFeatureHealth & LifestyleA & ESportsBackpage

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Xavier High SchoolNews2

The XpressBi-weeklyXavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411Volume 16 Issue 14

Editor-In-ChiefQuinlan MoranCopy Editor

Katherine BauerPhoto Editor

Meghan GerkePhotographerMaddie BaileyNews EditorMaria Efting

News AssistantAmy Boe

News WritersErin Drahozal

Opinion EditorMorgan NoonanOpinion Assistant

Nic EklandOpinion WritersMaddy Bailey

Tory Brown

Brennan Graeve

Chloe Streif

Ben Valentine

Student Life EditorBrady Hoffman

Student Life AssistantJulie Woods

Mini-Feature EditorsRachel BradyMolly Vipond

Feature EditorsJenna FenskeAnna White

Feature AssistantColette MillerFeature Writer

Lizzy Bailey

Health and Lifestyle EditorHannah Chute

Health and Lifestyle AssistantsErin DrahozalJeff Frieden

Arts and Entertainment EditorEmma Hunt

Arts and Entertainment AssistantAshley Pudil

Arts and Entertainment WritersKayla Thompson

Julie Woods

Ben Valentine

Daniel Vega

Sports EditorShannon Mulcahey

Sports AssistantMorgan Breitbach

Sports WritersKatherine Bauer

Nic Ekland

Daniel Vega

Backpage EditorsJenna FenskeAnna White

Backpage AssistantMary EskerBusiness

Tory BrownDistribution

Brennan GraeveAdvertising

Olivia Rochford

www.ParlorCityIceCream.com

3905 Center Point Rd NECedar Rapids

(319) 393-3736

Saints earn national titles at BPAFrom April 29 through May

4, Xavier High School students traveled 6 hours to Indianapolis, Indiana to attend the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference. Thirteen students from Xavier were among the thousands of students from around the country who attended the conference led by teacher and BPA advisor Mr. Tim O’Brien. The theme and goal of the conference was to “Accelerate Your Future” and prepare high school students for their professional business careers in the future.

“I joined BPA when Mr. O’Brien asked me if I wanted to join after taking a computer business class with him,” said junior Dorothy Zaugg. “I can get a lot of scholarships just for being a part of BPA, and it helps me get ready for the business world because we have to dress and act professionally.”

Upon leaving Xavier at 11:45 a.m., the BPA team arrived in Indianapolis at 6:30 in time to get settled in and prepared for an eventful few days. The four days the students were there were packed full of competitions,

Administrative Support Team 1: with Max Fuhrman, Carolyn Morrisey, Jennifer Sigmon, and Jeff Frieden and Administrative Support Team 2: with Josh Ford, Amy Olberding, and Emma Hauser received national top ten awards. Senior AnnMarie Ford won first place in Administrative Support Concepts and junior Carolyn Morrisey won a top 10 award in Database Concepts.

events, speakers, and more with the first competition at 12 on April 30 and the final event at 8:30 p.m. May 3. While their time spent in Indianapolis was educational, the Xavier students managed to fit a few fun activities in as well. Students went out to eat and visited a zoo, museum, and an amusement park in Ohio.

Xavier had a very successful time in Indianapolis with nine students earning a national award. After placing first and second at state, the

Amy BoeAssistant News Editor

Two students are Governor’s ScholarsOn April 27, the 2014

Governor’s Scholar Recognition Program was held at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. This program recognizes the record of consistent academic excellence during one’s high

Erin DrahozalNews Writer

school career. The program is a group effort between the official Office of the Governor, the Iowa High School Athletic Association, and the title sponsor, the Iowa Farm Bureau. This year, over 450 of Iowa’s highest achieving students were recognized for their academic excellence.

Among the crowd of students, two Xavier Saints were chosen to attend the conference. Colette Miller and Hunter Hayes were the two seniors selected by the administration and teachers. Their academic excellence and leadership roles made them a solid match for attending this conference.

“It was a great honor to be picked to represent Xavier,” Hayes said. “There were many worthy candidates for this program, and it’s humbling to see that I was chosen.”

This program consisted of all the students meeting at the Iowa Events Center at 1 p.m.

to start the meeting. Xavier Principal Tom Keating gave the opening address. He reminded students that they “either get better or get worse. You never stay the same.” He also wanted each student to recognize the adults who have supported them throughout their school careers.

At the ceremony, each student received a certificate to keep and a certificate to give to their favorite or most influential teacher. They also received a picture of themselves on a plaque and walked across the stage and shook hands with Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds.

“It was nice to be recognized because I have put so many hours into studying and making sure that I do the best I can academically,” Miller said. “In moving forward, I hope to keep up my work ethic in college and beyond.”Seniors Colette Miller and

Hunter Hayes are honored at the Governor’s Recognition Program. Photo Submitted.

13 BPA participants pose with coach Tim O’Brien before competition in Indianapolis. Photo Submitted.

May 8, 2014 News 3Self-defense class offered for senior girls

“This is a one word class. That word is ‘no.’ No is a complete sentence. Remember that.”

On April 26, 18 girls and a handful of their mothers participated in a self-defense class at Xavier. The class was taught by C.M. Smaby, a member of the Cedar Rapids Police Department who has also worked with the FBI. The class was offered to all senior girls.

“When you leave for college and go out in the real world, I want you to feel prepared,” Smaby said.

The class was broken down into two parts. The first three hours were spent in a classroom, while the final three hours took place in the Xavier wrestling room.

In the classroom portion, Smaby began his presentation by listing a few startling statistics. Every minute, 24 women are assaulted. Every seven minutes, a rape occurs. Smaby stressed that it is up to each girl to not become the victim. The class focused on preventative measures and how to get yourself out of threatening situations. Participants in the class discussed measures to take if being attacked. The merits of different options were discussed: screaming, using force, creating boundaries, going along with the attack, and bargaining with the assailant.

In the afternoon, the girls were able to put their newfound knowledge to the test and learned simple moves they could use to defend themselves. Three black belt police officers were brought in to assist Smaby in teaching and to act as assailants for the girls to practice on. Four target areas were stressed as being the ideal place to disable an attacker: eyes, nose, ears, and throat. The girls practiced moves on each other, and

at the very end of the class, they were put to the test. The police officers dressed up in full body gear and attacked each girl, and it was her job to fight back and escape.

Participants in the class felt that the knowledge and skills they gained were beyond valuable.

“I feel more prepared as I go off to college next year and less fearful of being in a big city,” Grace Winker said.

Kelsi Fuller agreed. “I learned that no matter how

small you are, you are always capable of defending yourself. Your determination is indefinite.”

For more information about taking a self-defense class, visit japankarateiowa.com.

Maria EftingNews Editor

Senior Britni Scholtes practices a simple knee kick move on police officer Scott Syverson. Smaby Photo.

Sixteen Xavier students traveled to the University of Northern Iowa campus on April 24 and 25 for the 50th annual Iowa High School Model United Nations Spring Conference. Along with moderator Mr. Nick Satterlee and chaperon Ms. Gineal Schrunk, the team members represented one of two countries to discuss several topics ranging from economics, laws and regulations, and foreign affairs.

“My favorite part of moderating the group is watching the students perform at the Iowa Model UN Conference,” Mr. Satterlee said. “It is great to see that the students understand their country’s viewpoints and can express them in discussion.”

Before heading to Cedar Falls, the group met every other week to prepare. The students were paired into committees to address unique aspects. Each committee had to write a position paper for their assigned country. They represented South Africa and China. They then met with other representatives of the same committee at UNI.

“I handled international debt crisis, international food quality standards, and genetically modified organisms in food products,” senior Adam Millsap said, who represented China.

Each day of the visit was filled with debate between representatives. Topics such as the rights of refugees, the Syrian civil war, and global debt reform were analyzed. Students had to reach an agreement and create an amendment to help resolve these issues.

Freshman Piper Kesselring represented China to debate extraordinary rendition and detention without charge.

“My favorite part is meeting all the new people and debating world issues,” Kesselring said. “I enjoy it because I like to debate. It was an exciting event.”

16 students attend Model UN Conference

Katherine BauerCopy Editor

Xavier High SchoolOpinion4

Fly solo at prom and still have funHello Saints,

prom fairy here. Your one and only source into the prom-filled lives of Xavier students.

Now, we are in the midst of

prom season, and I am appalled at the fact that people are feeling bad for themselves because they don’t have a date. To that I say: YOU DON’T NEED A DATE TO HAVE A FUN TIME AT PROM!

Why is it assumed that everyone going to prom needs a date? This will be my last dance at Xavier, and I have attended every dance without a date and have had an incredible time. Does not being asked make me less of a person? Absolutely not! But, unfortunately, the idea that you absolutely need a date for prom has overshadowed the dance itself.

An innumerable amount of people have told me to ask a boy to go to prom with me so he can be “arm-candy”. Then, if I don’t like hanging out with him, I can just ditch him at the dance. Really? I thought having a date meant that you

both mutually agree to have fun with each other the entire night.

Now, I’m not going to sit here and pretend like I wasn’t upset about not being asked to any dances. I was, but it doesn’t define who I am. I’ve been in homecoming groups where it was a mix of singles and couples, and I’ve had a lot of fun. Last year, I went in an all singles group for prom and had the time of my life. Not getting asked to a dance is not an excuse for you to not go. If you want to go to a dance, but don’t have a date, GO! Just because you

didn’t get asked doesn’t mean you’re not pretty enough or good enough. It just means your prince charming hasn’t found you yet.

I certainly do not want to give the impression that everyone should stop going to dances with a date. What I’m trying to get at is that you shouldn’t feel bad for yourself if you don’t have a date. That shouldn’t inhibit you from having a fun time at dances.

Most importantly, if you do want a date, try to go with a person you have at least talked to once. Sadly enough, it’s

gotten to the point where people get a date and it’s someone they have never talked to. As a result, people are just using dates for pre-dance pictures.

So, go have fun at prom. If you’re not going to prom, have fun in whatever endeavors you will be partaking in. Be responsible. You know you love me, xoxo.

Shannon shows off her Prom Fairy gear, making prom dreams come true. Meghan Gerke Photo.

Satanly<

Saintly

<

Spend quality time with family“You don’t

choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.” Family is the most important thing, but can so easily be taken for granted.

They are the ones that packed your peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before you took on the long days of elementary school, the ones that drove you around during the awkward phase of middle school, and the ones that are supporting you at all your high school activities.

For seniors, they are the ones that you have to move away from in three short months. The idea that I will not be able to come home after school and talk about my day with my parents makes me incredibly sad. The realization has hit that the little things that they have always done for me are really the big things I will miss next year.

So the question remains, what are we supposed to do about it? It is inevitable that at the end of the summer I will no longer be living with my parents. However, appreciation for my parents is something I can always have. Even for underclassmen who have more time at home, I can not emphasize enough to spend quality time with your family. It’s

ridiculous to think you can’t be social and be with your family at the same time. Spend some of your weekends watching a movie with your parents, going out to eat, or more importantly going to church together. Even if your weekends are jam packed, take advantage of the opportunities you have during the school week. Appreciate family dinners because this is one of the best chances you have to talk to your family and to listen to what’s going on with their day.

However, talking and listening at the dinner table requires a vital component: put the phone down. Do not text at the dinner table; engage. You can disconnect from mindless social media for an hour a night to make better use of your time. I guarantee you will remember the laughs and the conversations at the dinner table much longer than you will remember the text you sent or the Instagram picture you looked at.

Look forward to all the holiday celebrations you get to share with your family because we are truly blessed we get to do this. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and many others are whole days you can forget about the craziness of everyday life and just relax with those that care about you.

Your family loves you. It is a hard concept for me to wrap my

head around that no matter what I do, my family will always be there for me. It is absurd to think you aren’t ever going to argue or have a disagreement with your family and I am the first to admit I participate in my fair share of arguments. However, it continually amazes me that no matter what day I’m having or what I have said, my parents will forgive me and love me unconditionally.

Siblings are also a huge part of the family bond. Whether you are the younger, middle, or older child the role is important. I have an older brother, and his advice and guidance have been a huge influence in my life. If you are the older sibling, your actions and words can have a positive impact on any younger siblings you have.

Even if you may not have the best relationship with your parents or other family members, it is never too late to start. I encourage you to try to make the effort to improve and expand upon whatever your current family situation may be. I heard a saying once that fits perfectly: you spend your time trying to get your family off your back, only to discover they are the only ones who ever really have your back.

Shannon MulcaheySports Editor

Hannah ChuteHealth and Lifestyle Editor

May 8, 2014 Opinion 5

Discover the flaws of relativism “If it feels

good, do it.” “That’s your opinion and this is mine.” “I don’t want to impose my beliefs on others.” “I’m spiritual but not religious.”

“What’s true for one person may not be true for another.”

What is truth? Truth is the property of being in accord with fact or reality. Chris Stefanick (Catholic Youth Minister) wrote Absolute Relativism (most of this article will be quoted from this book). Relativism is the belief that there is no absolute truth, but that truth differs from person to person and culture to culture. Truth is relative to what each person or culture thinks. This is a belief that is very common and dangerous for us.

The main flaw of relativism is the belief that it is absolutely true for everyone that nothing is absolutely true for everyone. Here is why it may be harmful to think this way. 1) Relativism robs us of a sense of meaning. Science can’t prove everything. Answers to life’s biggest questions (Why do I exist?) can only be answered by philosophy and theology. This leaves the meaning of life up to everyone’s personal opinion. 2) Relativism leaves us with no criterion except personal taste in moral decision – making. The moral compass of a relativist has nowhere to point but to himself. 3)

Relativism undermines the right to life. “Abortion is wrong for you, but I believe it should be an individual choice for me.” Human life begins at conception. Killing innocent human beings is wrong. 4) Relativism puts the freedom of speech under attack. When someone speaks on their moral belief, they are often called a bigot. 5) Relativism destroys faith. Relativism would mean that God changes from person to person and that you could create God much like you would create your favorite drink at Starbucks.

A major tenant of the relativist movement is tolerance. Tolerance is being able to dislike or disagree with someone and endure that idea. Just because you disagree with someone, doesn’t mean that you do not respect them. Now, instead of someone disagreeing on an issue, it is now labeled as intolerance. Also, saying that someone’s action is wrong is not the same thing as saying that the person is bad. Jesus accepted us all

as people but he challenged us and loved us too much to let us stay in sin.

The Apostles continued to proclaim a message that eventually led to all of their excruciatingly painful executions. Why would men proclaim this message if they had not physically seen the Risen Lord? The difference between this martyrdom and others dying for their faith is that they physically saw Jesus. They didn’t simply believe in something, but they KNEW FOR A FACT.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” He did not say, “I am, just another idea, an opinion, and a thought to consider.” If we believe that Jesus is the Son of God, then why are we accepting anything else? Why are we not accepting the truths of the Church he founded? He and the Church he founded are THE WAY, THE TRUTH, and THE LIFE.

To be able to fight relativism, we have three weapons. 1) Change the way we talk to exclude relativist statements. 2) Speak the truth with

love. 3) Be joyful and holy. When people see and experience you in this way, they may wonder why you are so happy and righteous then find the truth themselves.

It may seem bold that I claim to know the fullness of the truth because I know Jesus Christ and the Church he founded. But if this isn’t the truth, then what is? Yes, this takes faith in addition to the facts, logic, and reason to accept the claims of Catholicism. Considering all of the evidence present for the claims of Catholicism, it would take more faith for me to not fully accept them than to be a relativist.

Remember to keep an open mindWe have all

heard the phrase “don’t judge a book by its cover” in reference to books as well as people. How many of us actually follow that? I know that

lots of people judge others based on their appearance. Our society has become so focused on what’s on the outside, but not on the inside.

Have faith in God’s plan for youIf you know

me, you know that I am a planner. In fact, once I graduate I want to study to become an event planner. I have been planning

all my life, but there comes a point when you just aren’t supposed to know the next step.

Mrs. Wagner often says, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” This is very hard for me to accept.

When something big like college decisions or friendships don’t go the way I imagined them to, I can get a little frustrated, especially towards God. This is where faith is put to the test. Once I hit that moment of defeat and chaos and think I’m broken, God puts a voice into my head telling me that everything is going to be alright. It turns out God had something better in store for me. He’s the ultimate event planner. Sometimes you get no for an answer because God has something better for you. That college you didn’t get into? There’s

a reason you’re going to the one you are. That failed relationship? There’s a reason God led you the other way. That team or show you didn’t make? You were needed somewhere else. There are so many unknown things of the future. You can’t let one thing shut you down.

A lot of people go through life expecting to understand and obtain the answers for everything that is thrown at them. Unfortunately, this will never be the case. One of the hardest things for people to understand is illness to themselves or loved ones. My grandpa died

of cancer before I was born. He had a better understanding of his suffering than anyone trying to help him. He said, “God has a plan for me. He needs me more in Heaven than you all need me on earth. My time is now, but I will always be with you.” Although I did not know my grandpa Gene, that first sentence will stick with me forever.

God has a plan. Listen for Him, and let Him make the moves. His plan is better than you could ever imagine.

Some people don’t care what they look like, and we think of them as lazy. Others spend hours preparing themselves for the day, and we think they are trying too hard. Who cares what we think? Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but our opinions shouldn’t ruin a person’s outward appearance.

If someone wants a tattoo, that doesn’t make them a bad person. They are just displaying images of what they love for everyone to see.

My mother has five tattoos, two of them represent her family, and one of them is a cancer ribbon because she survived Thyroid Cancer. People wear what they want and ink what they want because they are proud to be who they are.

We need to have open minds when meeting new people, especially us seniors. A lot of times, transitioning to college is a time to start fresh and wear and do what you want. It should not be our

job to put others down because their outfit doesn’t match society’s fashion criteria. Fashion and tattoos are an art, and we have to be open to letting people express themselves. Go out into the world (or into college) with an open mind, and even try something new yourself.

Ben ValentineOpinion Writer

Tory BrownBusiness Manager

Chloe StreifOpinion Writer

”

“

”

Francis of Assisi tells us we should work to build peace. But ther is no true peace without

truth! There cannot be true peace is everyone is his own criterion, if everyone can always claim exclusively his own rights without at the same time caring for the good of others, of everyone, on the basis of the nature that unites every human being on this earth.

-Pope Francis

We are building a dictatorship of

relativism that does not recognize anything as definitive and whose ultimate goal consists solely of one’s own ego and desires.

-Pope Benedict

”

“

Xavier High School Student Life 6

School days left

19 3

Last day of school is June 5!

Summer

Meghan Joens

“This summer, I want to run the Color Run.”

AbbyWatson

Cat White

Mondays left

Weeks left

4

What is one thing you want to do this summer?

Editor: Brady Hoffman Assistant Editor: Julie Woods

“I want to get in a paint or shaving cream fight.”

“I am going on a mission trip with my friends to

Oklahoma City.”

ConnorMillerNolanArp

“I want to go on a family vacation to Washington.”

“I would like to go to state for

baseball.”

All School Masses

1

Mondays left

May 8, 2014 Mini-Feature 7

2000s

80s

60s

Elvis Presley - Hound Dog was a popular tune back in the 1950s. Students were introduced to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and enjoyed their prom swing dancing to the new beat.

ABBA came out with a classic song played for decades to come, ‘Dancing Queen’. On the left is a picture of Ellen Degeneres at her senior prom in 1976.

The Beatles exploded the billboard charts with their hit ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’.

‘Jack and Dianne’ by John Mellencamp struck the 80s teens’ hearts as they danced the night away.

Prom Through the Ages

50s70s

The 2000s were a time of all sorts of music. Eminem, Usher, and punk-rock Green Day all got the party bumping for the teens of the 2000s.

Spice Girls, TLC, Kriss Kross, and 2Pac all hit the dance floor for the 90s teens.

90sDesign by: Molly Vipond and Rachel Brady Photos by: Google Images

Above is Lebron James and wife Savannah Brinson at their high school prom in 2002.

Britney Spears at her high school prom decked in red in 1998.

8 FeatureMay 8, 2014

MEETTHEP

m0R

TheLadies

Charlie Dean

Kylie DeWeesSydney YounggreenAnna Jacobi

Allison SchwachMaddy Gerleman

“I want to be

“Sometimes when I’m

bored, I lay on the ground and pretend I’m a

crumb.”

“I should be a

mermaid.”

“A few weeks ago one

of the five year olds I coach, politely asked if I was a boy or a

girl.”

“Do you like my

braces?”

“I used to hide

tots in my boy cargo shorts

like Napoleon Dynamite and

eat them during class.”

Page Editor & Photos: Anna White. Assistant Editor: Colette Miller.

a whale named Bok

Choy.”

9Feature Xavier High School

MEETTHEPC

m0R

TRUO

TheMen

Mason Montuoro

Matt NelsonMiles SullivanLevi Miller

Ryan FlahertySean Ickes

“Could Sean Ickes

be any cuter?”

“People voted for

me?”“...Money Team.”

“For the...”

“I used to have

fabulous blond highlights and I don’t play

sports.”

“I liked LOTR before it was cool @frankhill.”

Xavier High SchoolHealth & Lifestyle10

Double Tree Hilton350 First Avenue NE

Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

“We are going to 350 on First Ave, the new restaurant on top of the double tree. I am most excited to take my

awesome girlfriend.”-Junior Stephen Jones

PROM DINNERS

Elmcrest1 Zach Johnson Dr. NECedar Rapids, IA 52402

“Elmcrest has delicious food, and I am most excited for post

prom.”-Sophomore Austin Havertape

Batas1006 3rd St. SE

Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

“I’m looking forward to having a marvelous time at dinner and grand march.”-senior Andrew Khairaliah

Cibos685 Marion Blvd.Marion, IA 52302

“The food is good and the people are nice. I am most excited for dancing with

my date.”-Senior Olivia french

Page Design: Hannah Chute. Photos from: Erin Drahazol, Lizzy Bailey, and Quinlan Moran.

May 8, 2014 A & E 11Comics with Keefe

Emma KeefeComic Artist

A Guide to Being a Good Dancer at Prom: with Nic Ekland

Happy - Pharrell Williams

Neon Lights - Demi Lovato

Me and My Broken

Heart - Rixton

Find You - Zedd

Latch - Disclosure

Move - Little Mix

All The Way - TimefliesLa La La - Naughty Boy

(ft. Sam Smith)

Partition - Beyonce

Diane Young - Vampire Weekend

E.V.O.L. - Marina and the

Diamonds

A Little Party Never Killed Nobody - Fergie

Teeth - Lady Gaga

Troublemaker - Olly Murs

Page design by Emma Hunt, dances by Nic Ekland

The CanoeStep One: Sit down on the floor with your knees bent. Clasp

your hands together on the left side of your body.Step Two: Switch your hands to the right side and use your

heels to drag yourself forward. Repeat.

The Leg GuitarStep One: Hold your right leg in your left hand at a 90 degree

angle. Place your right hand in a fist near your right hip.Step Two: Punch your right hand down to the ground like

you’re strumming a guitar and hop forward. Repeat.

The ChickenStep One: Stand up straight and put your hands on your hips

with your elbows facing back.Step Two: Flap your elbows repeatedly and bend your legs.

Prom vs. AP Exams

Are you nervous for prom because of your embarrassing dance moves? Instead of looking silly, here is a guide to being the best dancer at prom. Listen to the songs placed on the sides of the

page and practice the dance moves demonstrated below. You’ll be dancing like a pro in no time.

Xavier High SchoolA & E12Students perform in the Galaxy talent show

Ashley PudilA&E Assistant Editor

Whether it is sports, acting, or singing, extracurricular activities allow Xavier students to show and better their talents. However, many have talents that are not always known to the student body. These students gathered together on May 2 to perform for an audience at Galaxy, Xavier’s annual talent show.

Started five years ago by Xavier controller Shea Francis, Galaxy invites and encourages all students with a talent to showcase it for fellow students, staff, and family members. This year, 19 acts, including musical performances, dancing, acting ensembles, and bands took the stage. Senior emcees Chad Eichler, Bryton Hayes, and Nicholas Mlodzik moved the show along and entertained the audience in between performances.

Each student who had interest in participating in Galaxy was asked to put together an audition to preview what they would do. From there, the acts were approved by

Xavier assistant choral activities director Mrs. Jaclyn Hussey. This is the second year that Mrs. Hussey has organized the talent show.

“This event is a fundraiser for the fine arts department that benefits the art, theater, choir, and band departments and any activities they do. It’s a win-win event!” Mrs. Hussey said.

Galaxy was open to all students, both performers and audience members. This year, the stage was filled with new faces. One particular ensemble act included freshman Hannah Zwanziger. She, along with four other friends, performed “Demons” a capella at Galaxy.

“My friend Luke Lesnik arranged the song for different parts and we got a group together,” Zwanziger said. “I was nervous at first, but also excited to show the audience what students can do outside of school.”

Top: Sophomore Heather HurtMiddle: Freshmen Connor Miller and Hannah ZwanzigerBottom: Sophomores Matthew Hovda and Lucas ParkerRight: Freshmen MeLeah Grubb, Jill Gannon, Tanya Zaugg, and Casey Murray

Top: Senior Emma HuntMiddle: Sophomore Emma Delaney and senior Lauren SmithBottom: Senior Mason MontuoroLeft: Junior Michaela Brown and eighth grader Gus Brown

A & E 13May 8, 2014

Patrons

Kermit and Florence AlveshereAlan AntonJoan and Peter BaileyBryan BanowetzJim and Judy BauerLinda BauerKenneth and Rosemary BauerDoug and Char BoeSandra BoeDorrance and Shirley BradyMark and Janice BradyScott and Tammie BradyJill BreitbachLora BreitbachHannah BrownLydia and Mike BrownChris and James BryantCassie BuschLarry and Marjory BushawAnna BusseJeff and Michele BusseMonica BusseColleen CampBill ChristiansonMatt and Tracie ChuteMr and Mrs Robert ChuteMindy and Gary ColemanJane and Rob CollinsMorty and Mona Lisa CookseyClark and Kathy CunninghamCarol and Pat DeignanMike and Karen DelaneyDave and Laura DieboldDave and Melissa Dostal

Jan and Mike DrahozalJoe and Kelly DrahozalDave and Polly DrakerNicole DrakerBill and Lu EftingJim and Liz EftingRyan EklandTom and Terry EklandSteve and Kay ElliottCarl and Carol EskerMike and Jody EskerTracie FabianoJake and Theresa Fanhle Doug FeltesJack and Micki FenskeJim and Linda FenskeJenny and Jeff FriedenMike FriedenDick GalliganGene and Betty GerkeJulie and Joe GerkeMichael GraeveTracy GraeveMike and Kathy GravelDiane HansenPaul and Bryn HayesTracie and Brian HazelettDutch and Ock HerrigLaura M HerrigMike and Wendy HerrigJohn and Sasha HoffmanMarvin and Linda HoffmanMike and Courtney HoffmanAllyson Hovda

Dick and Pam HuntVirgil and Carlyn HuntThe Janney FamilyCindy JensenJeanne JoensJohn and Con Inc.Ray and Beth KaminRay and Jan KaminKaty KarasKelli KertonGene and Sally KopeckyAnn and Tim KortemeyerMary LevettPaula and Jim LevettDave and Sharon LoecherDoris LogelDan and Donna LynchMegan LynchJeanne and Gerry MacEachernBrennan McAllisterBill and Mary Lou McCartanKerry McCartanWill McCartanFather Tom McDermottTom and Mary McGivernMaureen and Jason McHughLiz MillerMr and Mrs Duane MillerMobileDemandLeo and Diane MonaghanAnn MoranJulie MoranRegan MoranJohn and Ruth Neuzil

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Choir and band finish out the year Nic’s Picks

Vampire Weekend, the preppy four man indie rock band with lead singer and guitarist Ezra Koenig, is originally from New York and was formed in 2006. It is collectively and plainly stated, superb. Personally, I take offense if someone were to point at just one of their pieces of work rather than looking at their journey of artistry in its entirety. Rather than looking at a piece of the pie, I’m here to discuss them wholly as an artist.

Vampire Weekend, a band often marred because their name includes vampire, a word tainted thanks to Twilight, was originally put on the map with their first album Vampire Weekend in 2008. The diversely fresh album includes gleeful songs that make you want to do a jig with a touch of a more serious and mature feel, including hits such as A-Punk, The Kids Don’t Stand a Chance, and Oxford Comma.

The album Contra by Vampire Weekend touched the world in 2010, and I consider it to be one of the smoothest, most chill worthy albums with ear tingling guitar rifts to date. Although this album isn’t recent, I still encourage you to look it up on iTunes. For a mere $10.00 you will receive hours full of shuffled delight.

Vampire Weekend is currently signed with XL Recordings and released the album Modern Vampires of the City in 2013, which received much fan recognition, including winning a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. Modern Vampires includes the mega hit Diane Young and the gradually building, life reflecting Hannah Hunt.

Vampire Weekend will forever be a favorite of mine, and I will continue to defend their name and encourage everyone to give them a listen.

VampireWeekend

Nic EklandOpinion Assistant Editor

Kayla ThompsonA&E Writer

With the end of the school year quickly approaching, the band has finished their year with their annual Spring Concert that took place on Tuesday, May 6. The band will host their annual end of the year banquet that will take place on Monday, May 19 at Blessed John XXIII Parish Hall.

“My favorite part of this year was seeing so many freshmen get involved,” band director Ms. Kelli Swehla said. “The leaders of the group did a great job guiding these younger people and now they are ready to provide insight as we’ll have many more new people next year!”

The choir department is also wrapping up their activities for the year. Along with the band, they will perform at the State Large Group Festival on Saturday, May 10. That following Monday, the choirs will sing in their annual Spring Vocal

Xavier Chorale practices their songs for the State Large Group Festival under the direction of Mr. Walker.Emma Hunt Photo.

Music Concert. They have been preparing for both these events since the Metro Choir Festival that took place in March. They will host their banquet on Tuesday, May 13.

Mr. C’s Top Five’s

3. Nunsense

4. The Fantastiks

5. Godspell

1. Amadeus

2. Lost In Yonkers

3. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

4. Taming of the Shrew

5. Noises Off!

1. Les Miserables

2. The Sound of Music

Musicals Plays

Xavier High SchoolSports14

Hadzic living the American DreamIt all started in 1992 in the city

of Sarajevo. The city, now a part of Bosnia, was under siege for about three years. Amir Hadzic, the Xavier boys’ soccer head coach, grew up in Sarajevo until he had to flee the country to America.

Those who inhabited Sarajevo during the war, approximately 300,000, were living in fear. According to Hadzic, of the 300,000 in Sarajevo, about 10,000 people died and 40,000 were wounded. Hadzic decided the best thing for him to do was to start a new life away from war. This decision was a difficult one, as he had to leave his parents and older brother behind.

The journey to escape the brutality began with the decision to leave. What ensued was an incredible flight.

“The only way out was through a tunnel that people built underneath the airport which was occupied by the United Nations forces,” Hadzic said. “This tunnel was a half mile long, very low and narrow, and there was mud up to my ankles the entire way. We walked in complete darkness, and then we had guides who took us to the top of the nearby mountain where buses waited for us to take us to safety.”

Hadzic stayed in a refugee camp

in Pula, Croatia for eight months. He later applied to a U.S. sponsored program for Bosnian refugees. As a result, he went through several interviews that were held in the U.S. Embassy in Croatia. Once the interviews were over, he was able to obtain the necessary paperwork to come to the U.S.

Something beautiful came out of Hadzic’s situation. He met his future wife, Amy Weismann, in the Croatian refugee camp. They got married in 2001 and have a four-year-old daughter named Hanna.

“She (Hanna) is the most wonderful little person who brightens our lives every day,” Hadzic said.

Hadzic has played soccer most of his life, and it became an escape from the hardships his city was going through.

“I could play all the time and never get tired of it,” Hadzic said. “We even played during the war and risked our lives in the process. I guess we truly played for the love of the game.”

When asked who his role model is, he answered it is his father.

“I learned many things from him, including how to treat all people with respect, kindness, and compassion. How to do things with integrity, and how to deal with good and bad

things that life throws at you.”Besides being the boys’ head

coach, Hadzic is also Mount Mercy University’s boys’ soccer coach as well. He manages to coach both teams and work a full-time job at Mount Mercy University as the Assistant Director of International Programs and Student Services.

The first day Amir stayed in Iowa with his wife’s family, he received The Cedar Rapids Gazette. He saw that Mount Mercy was advertising a soccer coach position.

“I didn’t have a resume or cover letter ready at that time, but I had my scrapbook with all the hand notes, pictures, and newspaper articles from my playing career,” Hadzic said.

After his interview with the director, he was offered the position as the coach. He later applied to be Xavier’s head coach. Hadzic has led Xavier to three state championships.

Sophomore varsity player Jacob Lacy has known Hadzic all his life. His older brother Aaron Lacy (’10) also played for Hadzic while he was at Xavier and was recruited by Hadzic to play soccer for Mount Mercy University.

“He teaches us to do the right thing and to try and be a better player and person,” Lacy said.

“He is kind, respectable, and a person someone could look up to.”

Hadzic reached a milestone in his coaching career with Xavier. He picked up his 100th win on April 26 when Xavier won the Iowa City Regina Tournament. Xavier beat Dyersville Beckman and Davenport Assumption 3-0 in both games.

Hadzic’s life story of coming to America to live the “American Dream” is one that is inspirational to all the players he has coached over the years. Hadzic has aided Xavier in continuing the soccer program’s “tradition of excellence.”

Shannon MulcaheySports Editor

Amir Hadzic smiles during a home game after Xavier scored a penalty shot.Meghan Gerke Photo.

Kadlec continues reignXavier High School has been

in existence for nearly 16 years. The school has had just one girl’s golf coach, Mrs. Julie Kadlec.

Coach Kadlec’s tenure dates back to the grand opening of Xavier High School and beyond. She was also the varsity girls’ golf coach for Regis High School before Regis and LaSalle merged.

“I continue to hear back from past golfers who have fond memories of playing golf for either Regis or Xavier, regardless of what level they competed at,” said Coach Kadlec. “The reason I have enjoyed coaching girls’ golf for so long is that I love watching the players develop from somewhat quiet and reserved underclassmen to confident and assertive leaders of the golf program.”

Year after year, she comes back to coach young adults and student athletes at Xavier.

Coach Kadlec continues to work with young student athletes at Xavier because she believes it is such a rewarding profession to create a warm and caring environment for students outside the classroom (or gym) walls.

The senior leadership has been a common factor for the team as seniors Maddie

Bertsch, Grace Winker, and Kara Zwanzinger are swinging away and sinking big putts to continue to be ranked atop the 4A poll. According to the head coach, the senior leadership she has on this squad is the backbone of the whole team experience.

According to Coach Kadlec, the team is doing well but needs to continue to make puts and play their game to continue their success throughout the year. The team is 27-3 five meets into the season. They have losses to Iowa City West & Dubuque Senior in a quad and a triangular meet. The team tied with Pleasant Valley April 29 at Hunters Ridge Golf Course with a 348. The girls played against at Hunters Ridge on May 5.

Daniel VegaSports Writer

Senior Grace Winker finishes her swing at a Xavier golf meet. Abby Watson Photo.

The Drake Relays are one of the top track and field events in the country where current Olympians, college athletes, and high schoolers compete. This meet is held in Des Moines at Drake University’s track, called the Blue Oval.

This year the event was held from April 24 to April 26, with high school teams from all around the state competing in all of the different events.

Xavier sent the 4x100 girls’ team consisting of sophomore Sydney Oakley, senior Allison Schwach, junior Taylor Skala, and senior Molly Breitbach. The Saints did not place in a race that had top tier teams from around the state but they did run a personal record.

“The most memorable thing about Drake was being able to get a personal record in our 4x100 relay,” said Schwach. “Being able to watch some Olympians run was pretty cool too.”

The girls’ team has been consistently improving their times each meet in preparation for the State meet which starts May 22.

“We are trying to get a lot of people in different events so that the most people have

Drake Relays full of memories

the opportunity to make it to the state meet,” said Schwach.

The boys’ team also sent a 4x100 team made up of senior Chris Ball, sophomore Sean Murphy, senior Levi Miller (who subbed for sophomore Nick Stark), and senior Miles Sullivan. Stark also competed in the long jump and placed eighth.

The girls competed Tuesday, May 6 at the Prairie Relays. Both the boys’ team and the girls’ team competed in the MVC Divisionals at Cedar Rapids Prairie Thursday, May 8.

Morgan BreitbachSports Assistant Editor

Junior Kayla Torson runs during an away track meet. Megan Lynch Photo.

May 8, 2014 Sports 15

Michele Ann BurkeOwner, Head Instructor Phone 319-393-0303

Studio Dance3907 Center Point Rd. NECedar Rapids, IA 52402

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Design & Info by Shannon Mulcahey and Morgan Breitbach

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Q & A with Michael Mims

Information and Photo by Shannon Mulcahey

Q: Why did you decide to transfer from Prairie to

Xavier?

Michael Mims, junior

A: I came here because I wanted a personal change. Everyone I knew said they liked Xavier, and I wanted to be involved in a good

basketball program.

Q: What was the reasoning behind coming to Xavier at the end of the school year?A: In order to be eligible to play in the next basketball season (winter 2014), I have to be in school for 90 days.

Q: How did your parents help you in the transfer

process?A: They supported me the whole way. They said whatever I wanted to do was

fine with them.

Q: Were there any stereotypes that were broken once you came here?A: I really came with an open mind to Xavier. I’ve heard great things about this school

so I wasn’t judgmental.

Q: Are there any colleges that are already trying to recruit you for basketball?

A: I have talked to recruiters from Truman State University (Missouri) and also from Wayne State

University (Nebraska).

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more detailed information: xaviersaints.org

GG= Girls golfBT= Boys tennisGT= Girls tennis

Juniors taking varsity leadIn most sports, players have

to wait until their junior year to be on varsity. Only exceptional athletes make it onto varsity their freshman year. However, this is not an uncommon thing for the Xavier girls’ tennis team. Juniors Claire Bouchard, Allison Jasper, and Jeanne Bouchard have been on varsity since their freshman year.

“I feel very fortunate to have been on varsity since freshman year,” Jasper said. “I have gained experience, and that has allowed me to continue to become a better player!”

These girls are appreciative of the opportunity their coaches have given them. They understand that not many people experience what they will: four years of varsity.

“I feel honored to be on varsity all of my high school career,” Jeanne said.

The Bouchard girls also have the unique experience of playing doubles tennis together. They took up the sport when they were ten and were playing in tournaments by age twelve. They split up their freshman year to play doubles with new partners, but reunited last year to make it to state. They finished ninth after losing in the first round and winning one of two consolation matches. Their state appearance has driven them throughout this season.

“My personal goal is to go to state in doubles with Jeanne,” Claire said. “We want to get to the top at state, preferably win!”

Jasper began tennis in first grade, but really became competitive in middle school. She did not start doubles until she attended Xavier. This year, she plays with senior Kylie DeWees. Jasper also played at state last year and made it to the quarter final round.

“This year, I have been working on my serve and placement over power,” Jasper said. “My personal goal is to qualify for individual state again and make it past the quarter finals this year.”

Katherine BauerCopy Editor

Juniors Claire Bouchard, Allison Jasper, and Jeanne Bouchard pose together after a tennis meet. Bouchard Photo.

May 8, 201416 Backpage

Grandparents’ Massfifth annual

Nick Stark‘16

On Wednesday, April 30, 2014 the Xavier students and faculty welcomed over 350 grandparents for the fifth annual Grandparents’ Mass. They were invited to breakfast preceeding the Mass and were welcomed by Mr. Keating before joining their grandchildren for Mass.

Senior Maddy Gerleman and her

grandparents

Junior Nic Ekland and his

grandmother

Freshman Katie Tallett

and her grandmother

Sophomore Kyle Skomal

and his grandparents

Hunter (‘14) and Brie (‘17) Baldus

and cousin Madison Kadlec (‘16) with their grandfather

Page Design: Jenna Fenske, Information: Mary Esker, Photos: Meghan Gerke

Charlie ‘14 & Jared ‘17 Dean Daniel Richardson ‘16

Katy Ropp ‘16 Mason Hoxie ‘16 Mr. Schulte & Bryce Schulte ‘17 Maddie Andrews ‘17

Framk ‘14 and Jane ‘17 Hill

Faith Bohrer‘15

Kelsy Lempka ‘17