The Xavier community raised $140,000 to buy brand new uniforms for each Xavier activity program. The  third annual Dancing with the Saints (DWTS) event was held on January 20, 2018 at the Doubletree Hotel in downtown Cedar Rapids. It was once again sold out, with the addition of a wait list. Beyond raising money, DWTS aims to bring the Xavier community together during the winter months and give people a reason to get dressed up, get out of the house, and socialize.

“We want people to leave the event wowed from a full-sensory experience,” Xavier’s Director of Marketing, Mr. Nick Ireland said. “The lights, the music, the dancing, the food, the fellowship, and the common purpose; it all comes together to make something magical happen that you almost have to experience to be able to sufficiently describe.”

Although the planning committee had been preparing since last year’s season, they are not the only group that puts hard work into creating an entertaining night. The contestants put between 10 and 20 hours of practice in to prepare for their big debut.

Regis alumnus James Klein took to the dance floor with last years grand champion, Erica Ireland. For Klein, this night was about getting involved and supporting Xavier, spending time socializing with friends, and embarrassing his daughter, senior Janessa Klein.

“I love to have fun and this event is all about fun,” James Klein said. “The last two years when we attended everyone smiled so much. The atmosphere is so supportive, and everyone is just at the event to have a good time together.”

In addition to having fun and making memories, James Klein also learned some new, beneficial skills that will stick with him forever.

“I know a ton of new dance moves, and I know lots and lots of secrets about Erica Ireland now,” James Klein said. “Those will come in handy someday.”

Once again, this year’s emcees were Jeff Henderson and Liz Mathis. The celebrity judges were Scott Saville, Maria (Johnson) Drees (X00), and Bobby Hansen. The competing couples were Dick Breitbach Jr./Tallis Strüb, PJ Cosgrove/Vanessa Terrell, Darline Davermann-Reid/ LD Kidd, Joe Kirby/Alisabeth Von Presley, James Klein/Erica Ireland, Michelle Pitz/Aaron Canterbury, Teri Rexroth/Alvon Reed, Jodi Schimberg/Brody White, Nate Severin/Lindsey Greenzweig, and Amy Valentine/Cameron Byrd.

The live event began with a social hour followed by dinner. After dinner, the live dance competition took place. Kirby and Von Presley took home the Judges Choice Award, while the People’s Choice Award was given to Schimberg and White. With the money raised, Xavier plans to buy new uniforms for athletic and fine arts programs.

Syd Walther

Sports Writer