Dinner and a movie with Katie & Lisa

by: Lisa larranage & katie kerr
Copy Editor & Sports Editor

Hy-Vee

Atmosphere

LISA: If you’re looking for a laid back fast dinner, Hy-Vee Chinese is just what you’ve been searching for. I don’t think Hy-Vee would be the place to take someone on a hot date, but the quick-moving line and simple dining room is perfect for a dinner out with friends.

There’s some tables and chairs and a couple booths back in the corner of the grocery store, so if you eat at the store, it’s reasonably private. The dine-in area isn’t incredibly clean and tidy, but it serves its purpose.

KATIE: The atmosphere isn’t one of Hy-Vee’s finer points, but for a quick and cheap meal the Chinese food counter is a great idea.

I was able to choose my food nice and quick and since it’s so popular the food is always full and fresh. The eating area is obviously not Hy-Vee’s no. 1 concern, but it’s livable. I would suggest taking it to go and enjoying it in your own room.

People and pricing:

LISA: There really wasn’t much contact with employees, but when there was they were pleasant and helpful. The only interaction with the employees is when you order your food and check out.

If you eat in the dining area, there’s always someone near by to answer questions or help. The pricing is very reasonable, especially since the portions were plentiful.

KATIE: For a line that is constantly busy and moving the employees behind the counter are very helpful and pleasant. There was a confused and grumpy woman in front of us in line and the worker was very patient with her and helped her with her meal selection.

As for pricing, my wallet has taken bigger hits…I highly recommend Hy-Vee Chinese as a cheaper substitue for some other fast food restaurants

Food:

LISA: Hy-Vee has a wide array of dinner choices, such as fried chicken and roast beef, but the Chinese is par to none. I’m not a huge fan of "real" Chinese food (with all kinds of sauces and noodles), but sweet and sour chicken is my favorite. I choose a meal, which came with fried rice and a drink.

The chicken was cooked just right and the sweet and sour sauce was the perfect accent to it. For a student on a tight budget, Hy-Vee Chinese is perfect for a nice night away from cafeteria food.

KATIE: For my dinner selection I chose a meal that included rice, one entrée, one appetizer, a drink, and a fortune cookie. For my appetizer I picked a chicken egg roll. It was okay, but I’ve had better.

My entrée selection was general’s chicken which had a bit of a kick to it. I wouldn’t suggest try the general's chicken if you’re not a fan of spicy foods. Overall it wasn’t that bad…except for my boring fortune.

Complaints:

LISA: None! For quick, quality food, this is the place!

KATIE: Aside from the ignored seating area, and my soggy egg roll, I can’t think of any other complaints.

Lisa’s rating: 5 out of 5 forks

Katie’s rating: 3 out of 5 forks

North Country

LISA: Oh Charlize, you’ve outdone yourself again. This emotional true story of women mine-workers was both inspirational and eye-opening. The plot mainly focuses on Charlize and her struggle with her family and work life.

I thought the directors did an excellent job of keeping the viewer interested. I was never bored, and I was always anticipating what was going to happen next.

They especially did a great job of getting the point across without bashing men (since the movie focused on a group of women mine-workers who were harassed).

The movie really hit a heart pang, and made me marvel at Charlize’s acting ability. I would recommend it to any and everyone.

KATIE: I smell an Oscar repeat! Although I thought Charlize did an amazing job, I can’t help but think she’d sell her soul for any part that appeared to be Oscar worthy.

The movie used the typical formula of a female lead who has come from a rough childhood and finally stands up for herself and ultimately comes out on top. It is based on a true story about a women who lives in rural Minnesota.

The woman leaves her abusive husband and has to get a job in order to support her children. She appliess to work in a coal mine with old-fashioned men who don't think women should be working in the mine.

After numerous accounts of sexual harassment one women stands up and sues the company. The events that follow changed the face of all companies throughout the nation. The movie comes complete with the tear- jerking scenes that leave everyone in tears.

All jokes aside, it’s a good flick. I predict a good handful of Oscar nominations…just you wait and see.

Lisa’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Katie’s rating: 4 our of 5 stars