Starstruck – So Much Fun Energy
Friday’s Crusader Theater performances of Thunderstruck were so much fun! By about mid-day, the cast and crew were getting antsy. When they had lunch together at a special time, one could just look at them and see the energy starting to build. By the time we were starting to seat the student body in the parish center, the anticipation from everyone was bubbling over. The littlest kids soon laughed at the physical antics, and the older ones tried unsuccessfully not to laugh (or groan) at some of the corny jokes. Eventually, the laughter was contagious, and everyone was having a good time. When the school performance was finished, the cast and crew were flying high. But, then, there was the realization as evening came around that performing for other students is different than performing for moms, dads, grandpas, and grandmas – yikes! The nervous energy was hard to contain. When the show ended, there was the euphoria of a job well done.
The performances on Friday actually reminded me of when my own kids were little, which surprised me as I would have expected it to remind me of when they were on stage performing. When they were little, however, it was such a family event. We’d plan ahead to see who wanted to go with dad to the evening performances and get reserved seats. They’d determine what to wear as you cannot just go to a show without considering your outfit! When they were really little, there’d be one or two heads leaning against my arms/shoulders as they tried to stay awake. Afterward, we’d go to the Village Inn for dessert or some other treat. It was a father/child night of elegance — JFK style!
With many “normal” Advent and Christmas activities ahead of us this year, I hope many other families can experience the simple joys in life through the eyes of a child.
Mock Trial Competition on Friday
Speaking of those other things, I’d like to wish the best of luck to our Mock Trial teams, which compete in the regional level of competition on Friday at St. Ambrose. JFK as two middle school teams competing, All Saints has one, Louisa-Muscatine has one, Lourdes has one, Maquoketa has three, Mediapolis has two, and Seton Catholic has two. Three teams will earn bids to the state level of competition.
Butter Braid Bread and Nothing Bundt Cakes
Music Boosters’ Butter Braid Bread delivery is on Friday. There is also a “pop up” sale from 2:30-5:00 p.m. by Nothing Bundt Cake. The sweets and treats abound!
Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization
The Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization (MVSTO) funds most of the financial assistance for students attending Catholic schools in Scott County, including JFK. Over 100 students from OLV receive financial assistance to JFK or Assumption. Donations to the MVSTO are not only greatly needed by students, but they also have a tax incentive for the donors: Iowa taxpayers can claim a 75% direct state tax credit for donations made to the MVSTO. A donor making a $500 donation can take a $375 credit off what they would otherwise owe the state of Iowa. Donors may also be eligible for a federal tax credit, depending upon their tax status. In order to qualify for the tax credit on one’s 2022 taxes, donations must be made before January 1st.
For more information, please contact Assumption High School, 563-326-5313.
Special Early Dismissal on November 23
Students are dismissed at 12:40 on November 23. There is no afternoon preschool. ECLC and aftercare are operating. It’s been many years since we didn’t have the day off before Thanksgiving!
Highlighted Events
Things keep getting added to the calendar. Check online for more complete information. November and December are going to be busy!
- Nov 14: Music Boosters
- Nov 17: 8th to AHS
- Nov 18: Butter Braid Delivery. Mock Trial Regional Competition at SAU. Nothing Bundt Cakes sales.
- Nov 21: 2nd Grade Sacrament preparation. Crusader Choir Concert
- Nov 22: Green/Camo Out of Uniform Dress Day
- Nov 23: 2 hr early dismissal (12:40). No PM PS
- Nov 24: Thanksgiving break. No Classes. ECLC closed.
- Nov 27: First Sunday of Advent
- Dec 1: First Reconciliation
- Dec 2: JFK Reconciliation during the school day
- Dec 4: Christmas Cantata by the OLV adult choir (2:00 p.m.)
- Dec 5: 3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses
- Dec 6: 3/4 Christmas show
- Dec 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
- Dec 9: 4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events
- Dec 12: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Dec 13: K-2 Christmas program
- Dec 14: 3 Yr Old PS Family Event
- Dec 15: Civic Oration Final Round. Band Concert
- Dec 16. Red/Green/White Dress Day. 2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40). No PM PS
- Dec 17 – Jan 1: Christmas break
Chad