Category Archives: Entertainment

The Space Between Us review

We all love going to the movie theater to enjoy a good movie, some popcorn and spending time with people you like, even though you do have to be quiet during the movie. Evelyn, a couple of our friends, and I had the great opportunity of being able to see an advanced screening of The Space Between Us directed by Peter Chelsom.

This movie is about a boy named Gardener, who was born on Mars, who starts talking to a 16-year-old in Colorado named Tulsa. They have an online friendship until Gardner finally gets the chance to go to earth. While he is on his way to earth, he stops talking to Tulsa because there is no way to contact her. She thinks his story is crazy because she doesn’t believe he’s really from Mars.

Once they meet their connection only grows. While Gardener is having the time of his life on earth scientists discover that his organs can’t withstand the atmosphere and he has to go back to Mars. He and Tulsa are on the run from the scientists so he doesn’t have to go back.

While they are on the run from the scientists, they are also trying to find Gardener’s dad, because all he has of him is a picture, and his mom is dead.

“I really enjoyed the movie, it was romantic and cute. I also hated it because it made me cry!” said our friend Michael.

“I liked it because it showed how just because someone is completely different from you that doesn’t mean you just deny them.” said Manuel Perla.

Evelyn and I talked about our thoughts and we really enjoyed it. We both liked how you kinda knew what was going to happen, but it turned out to be something completely different, which was good. We both enjoyed the movie and we both cried.

Overall, we all really enjoyed this movie and would definitely recommend it to anyone! Make sure to check it out on December 16th 2016 when it’s out in all movie theaters.

Movie trailer: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=AFjJ7Itetgk

Minnesota Public Radio visit

Last Friday, on October 21st, me and my good buddy Harley, both aspiring writers, went to the MPR headquarters in downtown St. Paul. I had realized that I probably wouldn’t be able to support myself as a fiction writer, so I thought about being a Political Scientist or a Journalist. My Uncle, Dave Kansas, invited me to a tour. He is the Vice President of MPR, and has published several books.

After being dropped off, me and Harley went through was apparently the back entrance. We went into the lobby, where we met the greeter, a man named Abdul. The lobby was an interesting mix of modern architecture. My Uncle came down to get us, and I introduced Harley to him.

We went up to his room, and offered us some candy from a huge bowl. There was a huge selection, including brands I’ve never seen before. While I did not take any I severely regret it now.

Up in his office, he showed us some metaphorical trophies before the real tour started. He had a political cartoon of himself, several famous articles he wrote back when he worked for the Wall Street Journal, a few posters. He then gave us a copy of one of his books, “The End of Wall Street as we know it.”

We then walked around, and he showed us the offices of many important people, and his army of researchers. I chatted with a few, desiring my interest in politics and fiction. A journalist told me that “it’s hard to tell the difference between the two in this day and age.”

Then we met Tom Weber, and watched live as the editing team worked on an interview. Due to a bureaucratic blunder, we were called down to the lobby to wait for my Uncle, who came 20 minutes later asking where we were. When that cleared up, we went to talk to Jade and later a woman in charge of a reading program, snagging a few books. After that we left.

I would have to say it was a pleasant experience. I am lucky to have connections in the industry I plan to go into.

iPad handout

This week was iPad handout week where students got their iPads during their Social Studies class. Since the district is controlling the iPads this year, some things were changed.

If a student wanted their iPad, their parents had to go on Parent Portal and fill out the form (iUpdate) online. Last year, students were given printed forms to sign which made things easier for those who had no access to Internet.

There were a few complaints about going on Parent Portal. One thing, is that people say the form was hard to find. At max, it took them about 10 minutes to find the form. Another complaint was that the access to Parent Portal was sent in the mail to the person’s residence during the summer. The complaint was that some people didn’t keep their mailing, or that the parents didn’t know they were supposed to keep it for future use.

For those students who didn’t get their iPads, there was a mailing sent to everyone about the iPad makeup day. Students would get another chance to get their iPad once their parents filled out the iUpdate form.

This year’s iPad handout went by surprisingly fast. Hopefully, everyone uses their iPads appropriately.

Team 2823: The Automations

Last year our very own Highland Park High robotics team, 2823, made it to the championships in St. Louis, MO. They had many victories and ended up leaving with the title “Most Creative in Minnesota.”

Now it’s a brand new year and the whole team is looking forward to what this new school year brings. I interviewed some of the team members and mentors about what happened last year in St. Louis, what they have been doing this summer, and what is to come for this year on the team.

Photo from Go Fund Me Page

Name/ Grade: 

Moriss: 10th

Qwadir: 11th

Talking About St.Louis

So last year in St.Louis I would say we did a fairly amazing job. How do you think we did and why?

Moriss: We did amazing. They say we were the last team to be undefeated but technically we were undefeated in my opinion.

Qwadir: We attended the FIRST Championships and it was actually pretty spontaneous and ended up going undefeated in qualifications.

What was the best part of being in St. Louis with some of the team for the championships?

Moriss: Interacting with the other teams.

Qwadir: How well we did and how unexpected it was for us to do that well.

Summer!!

What has the team been doing over the summer to raise awareness about the team or robotics in general?

Qwadir: The biggest thing, first off, the better organization. Getting more structured and organized. We have also been attending the Highland Fest and the State Fair.

Whats to expect this year on team 2823

What do you think is to come this year for robotics?

Moriss: I have higher hopes for Duluth (where the State Championship is held) and robotics in general

Qwadir: Steampunk industral aged theme game. From the team a great preformence and going to champs again.

Do we see Duluth as another possibility this year?

Moriss: Yes, I do.

Qwadir: For sure. We are definitely going to Duluth again. We are already securing the funds.

What would you say to someone thinking about joining the team?

Moriss: You should join because we have a lot of opportunities to learn new skills and build more friendships.

Qwadir: Definitly, just come and see what it’s about. We are here every Thursday in the fall. There are a lot of things to do besides just build the robot.

The Go Fund Me Page

Our robotics team has a Go Fund Me page. Definitely go check it out. It supports the team a lot and also gives the team more opportunities for competition and building. The team goal is $10k. The goal of the team is to develop and apply the knowledge of science, math, business, teach leadership, and problem solving. More info can be found on the Go Fund Me page: https://www.gofundme.com/txf7z5qc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 things to do this summer

The State Fair

The State Fair runs from August 25th to September 5th. The State Fair is a Minnesotan tradition. Watch G Eazy and Weezer while eating some whacky foods like porcupine meatballs and lobster on a stick. Or you can enter in competitions like the 4-H or the Fine Arts.

Take a road trip to Duluth

Duluth is a destination for nature activities such as hiking, camping tour, kayaking and canoeing tours. Visit Spirit Mountain or the Superior Hiking Trail.

Highland Fest

Highland Fest is near school, right in the Village on Ford Parkway and Cleveland Ave. It’s held July 15-17 and features local art and music. Not only can you enjoy the venders and live entertainment, but you can also eat in the many restaurants like Noodles & Co, the Highland Grill, and Chipotle. Catch a fro-yo while listening to music at Menchies.  

Go to an Art Museum

Minnesota is home to several museums, like the Weisman Art Museum, located on the University of Minnesota campus, The Walker, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA). Explore exhibits like the Guerilla Girls and the Walker Art collection featuring 75 years of Walker Art.  

Cool camps for teens during summer 2016

iD Tech Camp

Held at Macalester college, this camp is perfect for computer and technology lovers. The program consists of a 2 week camp, with opportunities available for ages 7-17.

For more info:

https://www.idtech.com/locations/minnesota-summer-camps/st-paul/id-tech-macalester-college/

Alliance Francaise Camp

Held in Minneapolis, this camp is open to beginning or experienced French speakers to learn and grow with the language during this 5 day camp. It also provides opportunities for immersion in the future. Open to kids ages 3-18.

For more info:

http://afmsp.org/

Animal Humane Society’s Unleashed Camp

This is for the animal lovers! Grades 3-10 have the opportunity to work and learn about animals and the responsibilities that come along with taking care of them. The camp is for 5 days and costs $300.

For more info:

https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/education/unleashed-summer-camp

First Step Summer Institute

This is a free camp open for young women of color ages 16-18 held at St. Catherine University. This camp is 4 days and focuses on providing the women a college immersion experience for knowledge and a little background on a potential future at a university.

For more info:

https://www.stkate.edu/pdfs/mips-first-step-application-form.pdf

Gustavus Adolphus Athletics Camps

These camps last 4-7 days and have an option for full day or a residential stay for kids in grades 5-12. The focus of these camps is in the name itself, athletics. There are a variety of sport options including ones like swimming, golf, gymnastics, soccer, volleyball and many more. The camp is held in St. Peter, MN.

For more info:

https://gustavus.edu/camps/

Guthrie Theater Acting and Theater Camps

Held at the Guthrie theater, the acting and theater camps focus on bringing out the imagination and expression of kids in grades 3-12. Camps last 5 days with half and full day options and prices range from $250-$495.

For more info:

http://www.guthrietheater.org/education/camps/summer_camps

Is TJ Nails worth it?

The question is: Is the nail shop called “TJ Nails” really worth what you pay for, and the answer is, yes, in my opinion.

TJ Nails is located on 598 University Ave W, St. Paul, MN, 55103 their location is easy to find: you go on University by the Rondo Library and go across the street and go to the Fish Hooks, and turn the corner and there’s a sign that says TJ Nails. The nail shop does pedicures, full sets, French tips, and eyebrows. TJ Nails does a great job at doing a person’s nail or face feature.

When I go to TJ Nails, I prefer to get Sam to do my nails. I feel like when Sam does my nails he is more careful, and concentrates more, and he takes his time more. Sam is the only male in the shop, and he does a really good job, but everybody else does to. Your nails will come out looking gorgeous and they will last longer than two months.

If you start taking your nails off, most likely your finger nail that grew underneath will come off because you need some special solution to take them off. Your nails will be just like they were before you got them on, but your actual nail will be longer.

I prefer to go to TJ Nails, as they are a good buisness.

Kite Runner Book Review

The Kite Runner is about the coming of age story of a man named Amir. He grew up in Kabul, Afghanistan with a childhood friend that was inseparable growing up. Amir betrays Hassan’s trust, and they are separated. While Amir goes to America, and Hassan stays in Afghanistan, the Soviet Union invades Afghanistan and the Taliban takes over Afghanistan after the Soviets leave. When Amir comes back to Afghanistan post war, he realizes he has to make up for betraying Hassan, when they were children, by rescuing Hassan’s son, who now is an orphan.

This novel is a heart racing story about the impact of class and politics as they play out in people’s lives. It also gives a more human emotion to the lives of refugees that we don’t regularly see. Amir’s Dad, Baba, loses all his wealth in America, and has to work hard labor jobs in the U.S. This is a similar story to many immigrants.

This book is worth your time, and will definitely have you more interested in Afghan culture and refugee life. The journey that people take to get to a better life is sometimes frightful, but bravery comes through people while fleeing a country. This in turns shows how people are able to help one another through the kindness of their hearts.

Beyonce concert

Beyonce came to Minneapolis on Monday, May 23rd, to perform for the Formation World Tour at TCF Bank Stadium. The concert was scheduled to start at 7:00pm, but doors opened at 5:30pm. There was a delay though because of lightning and rain. The stadium was filled! Everyone had to evacuate TCF Stadium and go under nearby shelter. The thunderstorm didn’t stop the show though! Because of the delay, the go-ahead wasn’t announced until 9:00 pm.

Beyonce put on a great concert. She sang a mixture of old songs that everyone could sing along to, and some of her newer songs from her album Lemonade. Wiz Khalifa and other popular artists opened up for her. She also did a Prince tribute, that had everyone there feeling a little emotional, she covered one of his songs and had the whole stage lit up with purple lights.

Her performance was said to be the most satisfying Twin Cities concert ever. This concert was said to be, fierce, personal, and satisfying. There were pictures of her daughter and husband, Jay Z, pictures of her as a child and a teenager throughout the show. The show gave everyone a look into her personal life and her personality. The concert lasted for about 2 hours, the show ended with fireworks, ended with her hit song “Halo” and she was dancing in water.

Keshya Bailey-Phelps (11) and many other Highland Park students attended the concert on Monday night.

“Was the concert worth the waiting?” I asked Keshya.

“Yes! It was a lot of fun and worth the price of her tickets too. It did suck having to leave my seats and having to wait during the evacuation when I was already waiting all day though,” she answered.

“Did you like the mixture of her old songs and her new songs?”

“Yes, because I know so many of her old songs and I still listen to them and enjoy them today,” she said.

“What was your favorite part of the concert?” was my next question.

“The finale. She sang her new song “Freedom” and she was dancing in a pool of water and it looked so cool,” was her answer.

Overall, the concert seemed like it was a lot of fun.

Fields of Hair

Fields of hair is a beauty/barbershop located in St. Paul, on Minnehaha and Hamlin. It’s a beauty shop and barbershop combined into one, and was started by a women named Marcie S. Fields. She runs the hairstyle department, and was joined by her loved one. Together, they made a simple building into a succesful shop that they can gladly call their own.

I asked Marcie some questions based on how things are going, and the methods she uses to keep the success going. The questions I asked her were to help me get a better understanding on how she created a fascinating business, and ways she kept it stable. Some of the questions I asked her were:

  • What is “Fields of hair?”
  • What are some business techniques you used to keep the business going?
  • What made you want to start your own hair company?
  • What are some advantages and disadvantages about your company.

“Being on time, that’s the biggest thing” says Marcie. She keeps things in order and keeps her appointments and calls in order. Another answer from Marci about what techniques she uses to keep the business going is: “You have to be able to be dependent on time. Customer service skills are important especially making your customers happy. Customer service skills, make your clients happy which falls under the category “customer service skills”. When the customer lets you know what they want, that’s when the listening comes in. You need to get a visualization on what they want and you can’t get that if you’re not listening.” Her response about the customers relates to the saying “The customer is always right”.

One thing she cherishes the most about her shop and how she started her company is the freedom, which to her means that anyone is welcome.

Some advantages and disadvantages I asked her about her shop and the way things are set are listed below:

Advantages

  • Being my own person makes the moments stronger.
  • Spending time with my family matters the most, so I can make my own schedule when I work and when I don’t.

Disadvantages

  • No paid vacation since I set my own schedules. If you don’t work, you don’t eat.

My experience at Field Of Hair was nothing but sensational, positive, and well-mannered. The service was great, and the job was finished in a matter of time. I feel as though she listens and focuses on what the customer wants. She keeps things flowing, and gets people in and out with no hassle. I am satisfied every time I walk in there, and I hope to continue visiting such a pleasant shop.