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Are you ready?

Posted on 01 September 2010 by carly

ARE YOU READY?

On Saturdays in the fall, Kinnick Stadium becomes one of the biggest “cities” in Iowa. Lots of fans, lots of tailgating. Everyone does it different. These are few of their stories …

THE VETERAN

Let’s see … three or four folding tables, six or seven chairs, turkey fryer, small grill with skillet for breakfast, big grill for lunch, stereo and speakers and a few coolers. The TV finally came when he realized he needed a generator for more power. A DVD/VCR combo became handy for analyzing last week’s game before popping in some classic games related to that particular week’s matchup. Satellite dish capability is new for 2010.

It’s pretty simple, says Roman Terrill, a 1994 University of Iowa graduate who added a law degree from the university in 1998. Overkill is the way of the world.

“The spirit of the tailgate is always to cook more food than you need and give it to other tailgates. Never take money … always make a point to try to clean up every last cigarette butt and wrappers and everything … kind of be a steward of the tailgating environment.”

Terrill’s tailgater — he can more often than not be found in the UI dental school lot — has been a destination spot for years. He is known for theme tailgaters, a result of trying to spice things up in food preparation.

“After a while, you can only cook so many brats and so many cheeseburgers … it starts to get a little bit, you know, lame,” he says.

Some highlights: Everything was orange for Syracuse week in 2007 — orange chicken, Orange Julius, a delightful “orange-and-black” thing for dessert (“It looked good. It didn’t taste very good”); Buffalo burgers and Buffalo wings for who else — Buffalo — in 2003; and a classic Greek theme of gyros, pitas and Uzo in honor of wide receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, who, “while having a Greekish name, is really not terribly Greek,” Terrill says.

The most memorable might have been Mexican week in honor of wide receiver Ramon Ochoa and fullback Edgar Cervantes, who both came up huge in a classic 2003 upset of Michigan. For the next game, sombreros were worn, quesadillas and tortilla soup were served, and a CD of mariachi music purchased at Walmart at 2 a.m. before that morning’s game was loudly heard throughout the dental lot.

“We were doing such a good job that … a rival fan came up and saw our tailgate and offered to do the Macarena for us, which she did and she looked good doing it,” he says.

Terrill believes his true claim to fame might be organizing the annual dental lot kicking contest, open to friends and random passing strangers alike. Two guys join hands to form the crossbar and then hold up canoe paddles with their outside hands for the goal posts. Want to kick? Throw a buck into the football helmet. If you make it, you move on to the next round until a winner is crowned.

“Hundreds of people show up for that and the winner one year was a guy from Belgium,” Terrill says.

Then there’s the tuba. Opposing teams often park their marching bands in the dental lot before they march to the stadium. Terrill, who owns and can play a sousaphone, would often line up with the opposition’s tuba line and try to march with them. Sometimes he succeeded. Sometimes not.

“Did that at the Iowa State game and, man, were they not happy about that,” he says.

What makes Terrill’s spot a must-see is that it’s open to everyone, not just friends and family. He often doesn’t know many of the people. Sure, there are friends and regulars, but the spot is usually jumping so much that friends of friends and random passers-by stop to get a look at the loud, live scenery.

 “I’ve never invited anyone to my tailgate,” Terrill says.

THE ROAD WARRIOR

Living in Chicago has not slowed 2006 UI graduate Brandon O’Hare even a little bit. He has his season tickets. He has a group of fellow Hawkeyes who make the trek to Iowa City for every home game and as many road games as possible.

“When you see the sign for the world’s largest truck stop in Davenport going into Iowa City, it’s a big rush from then on in when it’s gameday Friday,” O’Hare says.

It helps having friend Alex Andrade live within walking distance of their preferred tailgating spot in the Myrtle Avenue lot. O’Hare and five or six companions typically arrive in Iowa City about midnight or 1 a.m. Rolling in that late, O’Hare and the gang park overnight in the Myrtle lot and head back to crash. Then they wake up with the Hawkeye fight song blaring in their ears at 6 a.m. and head over to Myrtle.

Most of O’Hare’s partners are native Iowans or Iowa grads. But they try to bring a taste of Chicago with them, stopping at Paulina Meat Market on the way out of town (“just an old-school Chicago butcher that has the best meat around,” he says). O’Hare and his friends usually take up two spots and have about 25 regulars for mornings full of Chicago burgers and brats, beer pong and bags.

He prefers to head back Sunday after some victorious night life in Iowa City. It’s a routine he and his friends don’t see changing anytime soon, especially since he’s bringing his girlfriend of two years, Sally, to her first game this Saturday.

“We’ll keep doing it as long as we can, I guess, as long as it’s still doable,” O’Hare says. “Most of my friends don’t have families yet, so it’s a good way to spend the weekends.”

THE DUTIFUL HOSTS

For more than 10 years, Jerod and Becky Lyons of Iowa City have been giving their friends a place to crash on game weekends. It’s even the reason for their latest home improvement venture.

The couple recently put the finishing touches on a summer project — a downstairs bathroom and guest room for visiting friends.

The Lyonses put up four of married friends for every game, but the number of people milling in and out over the course of the weekend can number as high as 20 or more.

“Somebody different has always got somebody different with them for the games,” Jerod says. “We’ve just always been like that. The more the merrier, you know.”

The two rarely go to games, just play the host and join in for the tailgating action. Come kickoff, they head home and watch the game on TV and wait for the gang to return for postgame party time.

The location doesn’t hurt, either. After living on the east side of Iowa City for five years, the couple bought a house in 2005 just blocks from Kinnick Stadium on the edge of University Heights. At first, the now-vacated lot at Olive Court could easily be accessed at the end of their street. Nowadays, Jerod and Becky join their relocated friends by the “Red Barn” at 711 Melrose Ave., still just a few short blocks away.

“I would never say that it had any bearing on buying this house, but it was sure a huge bonus when we realized the location and how close it was going to be to Kinnick, no doubt about it,” Jerod says. “Instead of getting up and driving over here for tailgating, now we’re just walking down the block.”

With that many people around, one might think the Lyonses would grow weary. On the contrary, they say. They love playing the hosts.

“You’ve got six or seven weekends a year where everyone’s getting together and you know what’s going to happen,” Jerod says. “I look forward to it.”

What’s different this year? Well, they finally decided to get some tickets.

“I want to be there for the national championship,” Jerod says

— SAM

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Fave Five: Amy Anderson

Posted on 25 August 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Amy Anderson, 34, Cedar Rapids
Enrichment Coordinator @ Polk Elementary School

Local theater
Theatre Cedar Rapids, Orchestra Iowa and Riverside Theatres!  All have such talented and wonderful people that make us so culturally rich.

Crunch Berry Wednesdays
I love that smell while driving through town on I-380. Cedar Crapids? I think not! I like that I can drive my children through town and they recognize the smell as well.

Big city, small town
Cedar Rapids has a small town feel within a larger city. Everyone knows everyone, or at least you’re connected through no more than three people, many of whom are lifelong citizens. I’ve heard our city called one of the biggest small towns in Iowa.

Downtown Cedar Rapids Farmers Markets
I love wandering through the stalls, stopping to talk to people I know and all the sights and sounds of all the products being sold. It’s so nice to see how much the city has embraced this event, when just a few years ago, it was one side street with only a few vendors. It makes it so worth the heat and crowded streets!

Going places
I’ve seen a steady growth of a community-minded citizens within my generation.
I just turned 34. One of my high school classmates is a state representative, one is a Hollywood actor with strong ties to the community, several are active in Theatre Cedar Rapids and a lot of the people I graduated high school with were born here, went away to school and came back here to settle down with their families.

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Flying high with Red Bull

Posted on 16 August 2010 by carly

University of Northern Iowa student, Ethan Drew Carlson has created a life size replica of Red Bull Air Race pilot Kirby Chambliss’ plane. He used more than 9,000 Red Bull cans to create the 15-foot-long plane with a 20-foot wingspan.  Ethan, a Spirit Lake native, is a graphic design student at UNI.

His plane was selected to be put on display at Red Bull Art of Can Dallas. The Art of Can, which remains open to the public until August 22 and Galleria Dallas, features original pieces of art that are created or inspired by Red Bull cans.

 Ethan’s plane took more than two months to put together. When Ethan was notified that his plane was chosen to be put on display in Dallas, he spent 18 hours driving from Iowa to Texas with his creation sitting atop a flatbed trailer.

Here is a video chronicling the creation of Ethan’s plane.

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Fave Five: Jessi Mart

Posted on 14 July 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Jessi Mart, 29, Cedar Rapids
Kitchen/Interior Designer @ The Cabinet Gallery

Pei’s Mandarin Restaurant
Great service and food always keeps me going back to Pei’s.  With a wide variety of entrees, Pei’s is a great family dining experience. They also have an appetizing sushi menu with a large selection of seafood that is always fresh. Pei’s also offers the teppanyaki tables, where they prepare the food right in front of you and entertain you along the way. I know I always crave their shrimp tempura rolls, yum yum sauce and their crab meat Rangoon.  If you ask nicely Dave or Tom might make you a specialty roll.


Dog Gone It Designs
Started by a local designer, Amy Gharib, this stylish dog collar and leash company, is a great way to keep your dogs looking sharp.  Dog Gone It Designs offers a wide variety of cool colors and patterns to go along with any dog’s personality.  They offer all sizes from itty-bitty to extra large.  They also have leashes to match.

Palisades-Kepler State Park
This gorgeous park, just off Highway 30 between Cedar Rapids and Mount Vernon, is a great sanctuary for relaxation.  I was married at the beautiful lodge a couple years back, and it made for a great backdrop for some wonderful memories.  This state park is a nice quick getaway from the city life for a weekend
or just a night with their large camp grounds, great view of the river and beautiful walking trails.

Table for One
Table for One is my favorite massage place in Cedar Rapids. No matter the masseuse, you know you will leave relaxed.  They offer a wide variety of services and have local artist’s product for sale as well.  If you want to get a gift certificate for a special occasion or just want to relax, Table for One should be your stop.  The intimate location makes it great to forget about the day’s worries.

Bever Pool
This is a great place to relax in the summertime. The pool is set back away from the busy streets with lots of old shady trees.  Sit back and read a book, take a ride on the new waterslides or cool off in the new sprinklers. It’s a great spot for any summer day.

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Fave Five: Amber Mussman

Posted on 30 June 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Amber Mussman, 31, Cedar Rapids
Public Information Officer and Adult Programming Coordinator @ Cedar Rapids Public Library

All Good Things Therapeutic Massage
This cozy little shop offers the best massage in town. Located on Seventh Avenue in Marion, All Good Things offers an amazing variety of massages, including deep tissue and hot stone, as well as Reiki. When the stress of the day gets to be just a little too much, there is no better way to relax than with a massage in one of their beautifully decorated rooms. As a bonus, pick up handmade soap from Jeanne’s Soaps, located in the same shop. Her secret recipe soaps are super luxurious.

Leonardo’s Pizza
I absolutely adore the atmosphere at Leonardo’s Pizza. The low light, red vinyl booths, and sparkling lights make you feel like you stepped back in time. The thin crust pizza is their specialty, but I am a huge fan of their chicken salad, which is big enough to share.

The Classics at Brucemore
Every year in July, I gather with friends and head to Brucemore for The Classics at Brucemore. Watching theatre in the natural amphitheater on the grounds of this beautiful estate is a unique experience. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs and a bottle of wine, and be prepared for a magical summer evening.

Zin’s Restaurant
This downtown Cedar Rapids restaurant is one of the best places to go on date night, or any night for that matter. The food is delicious, the portion size small enough that you are encouraged to order more than one item on the menu, and they have the best happy hour deals in town. You can’t go wrong with half price wine, especially with their considerable selection.


The Cedar Rapids Public Library
I am an avid reader and I love to go to the library. The Cedar Rapids Public Library is a sanctuary for book lovers of all ages. There are a number of adult programs at the library, such as author visits and book discussions, and programs the whole family can enjoy, like music performances. While I can’t wait until the new library is built, the Westdale location is convenient and has so much to offer, it makes the wait bearable.

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Fave Five: Meg Tisinger

Posted on 16 June 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Meg Tisinger, 25, Tiffin

Personnel Consultant @ Remedy Intelligent Staffing, Coralville.

F.W. Kent Park

A Mecca for nature lovers, I don’t know if I know of a more beautiful place in Johnson County than Kent Park. This scenic 1,082-acre park features native prairie, wetland and forest areas, as well a 27-acre lake and beautiful conservation center. The camp areas are amazingly clean and affordable

($10 a night for non-electric campsites) and they are handicap accessible. The best times to go are in early spring when everything is in bloom and mid-fall to when the leaves are changing. You may just get a glimpse of some wild turkey and deer.

Short’s Burger and Shine

My goal for this year is to try every burger on the menu at Short’s. Located in a former shoe shine store, the décor harkens back to a simpler time in Iowa City’s history, yet the dark wood and exposed brick offer a modern twist. Every burger, chicken and black bean burger is named after a different city in Iowa and the meat, buns and seasonal vegetables are purchased locally. My favorite is the Dundee: sautéed mushrooms, American cheese, bacon, garlic aioli and a fried egg. Be sure you smother your fries in the Short’s Sauce, too!

The Silver Spider

The Silver Spider has been my favorite place for unique gifts for the past four years that I’ve lived in Johnson County. There is something for everyone, from accessories and gift items, to children toys, books, stationary, cards and a great collection of Anne Taintor products. They have two locations, Mount Vernon and Old Capitol Town Center in Iowa City, so the parking is convenient. For the savvy shopper, they also include a wide array of sale products marked down as much as 80 percent, which is nice on the pocketbook.

El Bandito’s

One of my favorite new places in Iowa City, El Bandito’s is located across the street from the Bluebird Diner in the former Paul Revere’s Pizza. Recently expanded to accommodate growing patronage, their menu is wonderful and includes Hibiscus Margaritas, Portabella mushroom tacos and a fantastic Shrimp Diablo in a spicy tomato sauce. They also offer a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. with huge tacos for $1.50 and pints of Bud or Bud Light for just $2.

Volunteer Opportunities

One of the great things about living in the Corridor is the many places that serve the community and give residents a chance to give back. The Shelter House of Iowa City, Johnson County Crisis Center and the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Iowa City are always looking for volunteers or donations. This year, I’ve also had a chance to serve as a volunteer for the American Diabetes Association’s 2010 Tour De Cure, planned for June 26 at Prairie High in Cedar Rapids. For more information on cycling or donating, visit www.diabetes.org/tourdecure

F.W. Kent Park
A Mecca for nature lovers, I don’t know if I know of a more beautiful place in Johnson County than Kent Park. This scenic 1,082-acre park features native prairie, wetland and forest areas, as well a 27-acre lake and beautiful conservation center. The camp areas are amazingly clean and affordable
($10 a night for non-electric campsites) and they are handicap accessible. The best times to go are in early spring when everything is in bloom and mid-fall to when the leaves are changing. You may just get a glimpse of some wild turkey and deer.

Short’s Burger
and Shine
My goal for this year is to try every burger on the menu at Short’s. Located in a former shoe shine store, the décor harkens back to a simpler time in Iowa City’s history, yet the dark wood and exposed brick offer a modern twist. Every burger, chicken and black bean burger is named after a different city in Iowa and the meat, buns and seasonal vegetables are purchased locally. My favorite is the Dundee: sautéed mushrooms, American cheese, bacon, garlic aioli and a fried egg. Be sure you smother your fries in the Short’s Sauce, too!
The Silver Spider
The Silver Spider has been my favorite place for unique gifts for the past four years that I’ve lived in Johnson County. There is something for everyone, from accessories and gift items, to children toys, books, stationary, cards and a great collection of Anne Taintor products. They have two locations, Mount Vernon and Old Capitol Town Center in Iowa City, so the parking is convenient. For the savvy shopper, they also include a wide array of sale products marked down as much as 80 percent, which is nice on the pocketbook.
El Bandito’s
One of my favorite new places in Iowa City, El Bandito’s is located across the street from the Bluebird Diner in the former Paul Revere’s Pizza. Recently expanded to accommodate growing patronage, their menu is wonderful and includes Hibiscus Margaritas, Portabella mushroom tacos and a fantastic Shrimp Diablo in a spicy tomato sauce. They also offer a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. with huge tacos for $1.50 and pints of Bud or Bud Light for just $2.
Volunteer
Opportunities
One of the great things about living in the Corridor is the many places that serve the community and give residents a chance to give back. The Shelter House of Iowa City, Johnson County Crisis Center and the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Iowa City are always looking for volunteers or donations. This year, I’ve also had a chance to serve as a volunteer for the American Diabetes Association’s 2010 Tour De Cure, planned for June 26 at Prairie High in Cedar Rapids. For more information on cycling or donating, visit www.diabetes.org/tourdecure

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Fave Five: Alison Dix

Posted on 02 June 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Alison Dix, 33, Mount Vernon
Owner @ Devotion to Detail Event Planning

Brown Deer Golf Club
If you are looking for location with character to hold a party or reception, with service from a great staff, then checking out this location is a must. Brown Deer’s mission-style architecture as well as the amazing views over the lush course are what make it truly a unique experience. I have even planned a winter wedding there, and the lights bouncing of the snow made for an awe inspiring backdrop.

Sts. Peter & Paul Chapel
Another great unique location, Sts. Peter and Paul Chapel combines art and history. The beautiful brick chapel was constructed in 1916 by Czech Catholics and was turned into a private chapel in 1996. The two-story stained glass windows artfully display 10 well-known saints, and the altars are also adorned by lifelike statues of saints. Hosting a wedding there is an easy way to have a simple yet spiritual ceremony.

North Ridge Pavilion

The deck overlooking the pond, the limestone fireplace, the new kitchen and bathrooms, the wood beams in the ceiling, all the windows to look out over the pond and park. It is hard for me to choose which feature is my favorite, but combined they make this one of my favorite places to host an event. It is close to the interstate, yet the noise isn’t disruptive. A grass roof makes
this building green and more inviting
and alive.

The Skillet Café
When I need a quick and affordable lunch or want to know my food is freshly made just for me, I head to The Skillet Café in Mount Vernon. At the corner where First Street intersects with Highway 1, the Skillet is a great little restaurant with a menu of omelets, pastas, potatoes, sandwiches and salads. I am always tempted to try their specials, which are new items they are trying out for the menu. My favorite is probably the Chicken Cacciatore. When I am having a crazy day, I order it to go, bring it home and pretend I cooked it.

Lehm Books and Gifts

I recently discovered this shop after a friend recommended it as a place to find a gift for a person I had no idea what to get. The array of treasures in this shop are extensive. I really enjoyed my shopping experience there, laughing at the cute signs on the stairwell, being inspired by the wild women saying and finding the perfect gift for a friend. They also have books, but to call this is a bookstore wouldn’t be enough. It is that and so much more.

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Fave Five: Angela Quell

Posted on 19 May 2010 by tracy.mccullough

Angela Quell, 26, Cedar Rapids
Community Relations Specialist @ Waypoint Services for Women, Children and Families

Sutliff Cider

Sutliff Cider makes by hand a variety of delicious apple beverages right here in Iowa. But the experience with Sutliff Cider can begin before opening a bottle. A scenic drive to Sutliff will take you to the apple orchards, historic fermenting barns and a charming 120 year old renovated barn tasting room. I suggest the delicious, crisp, champagne-style Hard Apple Cider — but be sure to sample a little of everything. Don’t have time to drive out to Sutliff? Sutliff Cider is sold in local stores, too.

Kenzi Photography

Photos memorialize special life milestones — so having an accomplished, artistic photographer in my family’s life is important. Mackenzie and her staff with Kenzi Photography provide a personalized, relaxed photo session; allowing everyone to ignore the camera and be themselves to capture beautiful genuine family interactions. The unique studio in downtown Marion offers backgrounds for any occasion or you can even have the studio come to you at your home. The end products are amazing, quality at an amazing price and the DVD of photos played with music is always a must-buy.

Brucemore

Brucemore began as a home, but today it is the treasured historical site of Cedar Rapids that offers cultural, philanthropic and educational activities for the whole community. The grounds are beautiful in the summer and easy to enjoy. Nothing is better than relaxing on a blanket or lawn chairs and listening to blues legends at the annual Bluesmore, or watching air balloons inflate at the Balloon Glow, or enjoying a fun-filled interactive outdoor children’s theater production.

Benz Beverage Depot

To make a night-in special, I always stop by Benz Beverage Depot to peruse the shelves. With a variety of high-quality, high-delicious cheese, wine and other foods, I always leave the store looking forward to getting home and sampling something new. With items made here in Iowa to somewhere on the other side of the world, the Depot is a distinctive shopping option to the area. It’s also a great place for gift purchases for that hard-to-buy person in your life — everyone loves good food!

Kathy’s Pies

I fell in love with Kathy’s Toll House pie with my first bite — a brownie type pie with chocolate chips, and pecans, yum! I haven’t looked back since, and quickly discovered that a Kathy’s pie is appropriate for any occasion — birthday-pie, welcome-to-the-neighborhood-pie, or even because-it’s-Monday-pie. But this bakery offers more than signature pies. Cakes, cookies, turnovers, cinnamon rolls and other bake goods are available to pick up on impulse or plan ahead and place an order.

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Mompreneurs — making it work

Posted on 06 May 2010 by katieg

Mother’s Day is just around the corner. So we caught up with three local “mompreneurs” and asked them to share their ideas on balancing motherhood and business savvy. You’ll see these moms are making it work.

Rachel Tabron, 33, Cedar Rapids

Photographer and Owner @ Ambroja Photography

Rachel Tabron, owner and photographer of Ambroja Photography juggles the responsibilities of owning her own business as well as being a mother to three children under the age of four. She is pictured here with Isaiah, 8 months old. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Rachel Tabron, owner and photographer of Ambroja Photography juggles the responsibilities of owning her own business as well as being a mother to three children under the age of four. She is pictured here with Isaiah, 8 months old. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Less than a week after having her third child Rachel Tabron was photographing a wedding. With a “just do it” attitude she manages her photography business (including an average of 30 weddings year) and volunteer work taking photos of adoptable pets at the Cedar Valley Humane Society, while raising three kids, ages 8 months, 2- and 4-years-old, and two stepchildren, ages 15 and 17. Oh, and five pets.

Why did you start your own business?

I was always an entrepreneur at heart. My husband and I both worked for other companies and eventually we decided it was the right move for us to create the business. It was a long process and definitely an ongoing learning experience, but years later we are happy with the decision.

Does owning your own business make it easier to be a working mom?

In some ways it does. I can control my workload and decide which days and hours I want to do certain tasks. A misconception about owning your own business though is that you can take days off whenever you want. The work still has to get done and I’ve never worked so hard in my life.

What is your best advice for balancing a working mom schedule?

Family first, business second. Setting a schedule is a must and you have to be able to separate being a mom and running a business. Trying to turn your business brain off while with family is just as challenging as turning off baby talk while in consultations.

What do your kids think of your job?

They enjoy looking at photos of princesses (the brides) and making forts out my backdrops in the studio.

Mary Locher, 39, Cedar Rapids

Owner @ Weetail Seasonal Children’s Consignment Sale

Mary Locher (right), owner of Weetail, goes through movies and games with her children Catie Locher, 12, (left) and Max Locher, 9, at Hawkeye Downs in southwest Cedar Rapids on Wednesday, April 28, 2010. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Mary Locher (right), owner of Weetail, goes through movies and games with her children Catie Locher, 12, (left) and Max Locher, 9, at Hawkeye Downs in southwest Cedar Rapids on Wednesday, April 28, 2010. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Mary Locher has had a busy couple of weeks. Her 9-year-old took his first communion. As a board member for Playtime Poppy, she volunteered during a weekend’s worth of performances. She spent quality time with her 12 year old daughter and the family’s dog. Plus she organized, promoted and held her semiannual seasonal children’s consignment sale — featuring everything from kid’s clothes and baby gear, to toys and strollers. And she’ll do it all again (minus the first communion part) this fall.

Why did you start your own business?

I had been laid off from my part time job and was looking to replace my income. A friend was selling her business so I bought it.

How does the sale work?

If your child uses it we sell it. I rent Hawkeye Downs out twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Consignors set the price on their items and get 65 percent of their asking price. Shoppers enjoy one stop shopping so they don’t have to run from garage sale to garage sale looking for different sizes and items. I see my business as a big recycling project. It keeps toys and things out of the landfills because you can buy an item at the sale, use it and then sell it at a future sale.

Does owning your own business make it easier to be a working mom?

Well for me it does. I do a lot of the paperwork and leg work while my kids are at school. When the sale is open my kids can come out and help me.

What do you love most about your job?

Flexibility. And with the economy being the way it is, it’s great to help people get a bargain or make a little cash for stuff around their house. Plus, I enjoy getting to meet new people. I have lived here my whole life and every sale I get to meet people from all walks of life that I would never have met.

What do you love most about being a mom?

Laughing. My kids make me laugh every day!

Jennifer Robb, 31, Iowa City

Professional Organizer and Owner @ Simple Organizing Strategies and Vice President @ Robb Concrete Construction

Jennifer Robb, owner and professional organizer for Simple Organizing Strategies, poses with her children Jayden Robb (left), 8, and Sydney Robb, 6, in front of one of the shelves she organized for a client at his home off Jessica Lane in Coralville on Thursday, April 29, 2010. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Jennifer Robb, owner and professional organizer for Simple Organizing Strategies, poses with her children Jayden Robb (left), 8, and Sydney Robb, 6, in front of one of the shelves she organized for a client at his home off Jessica Lane in Coralville on Thursday, April 29, 2010. (Julie Koehn/The Gazette)

Jennifer Robb doesn’t have a typical day, but that doesn’t mean she lacks structure and organization in her life. In fact, she keeps a consistent routine for her two daughters, eight and six, and the family pets, runs her own professional organizing business, and handles the business side — invoices, project bids and payroll — for her husband’s concrete finishing company.

Why did you start your own business?

When my second daughter was born, it became increasingly difficult for me to find a healthy balance between work and family. After considering several factors, such as my stress level, our budget, the cost of child care … we decided that I would leave my job as an optician and become a stay-at-home mom. After about 8 months at home, my former boss called me with the exciting news that she had come across professional organizing. We decided that organizing would be the perfect job for me as I had always been extremely organized and tidy. I could start my business out as my time allowed and grow the business as my babies grew.

Does owning your own business make it easier to be a working mom?

Much easier because I am in charge of my time and how I choose to spend it. On the other hand, because I oversee two businesses, the buck starts and stops with me. I am responsible for more than just my own family. I have the responsibility making sure we can fulfill our obligation to our customers, our contractors, our vendors, and especially our employees and their families.

What is your best advice for balance a working mom schedule?

Two things: Make yourself your number one priority, always! I know that the most important thing I can do for everyone that matters to me is take good physical and mental care of myself and stay healthy. And two, if at all possible, do something you love for a living. Figure out what you love and what you are good at and pursue it.

What do your daughters think of your job?

They are proud of me. But they think I spend too much time on the computer working.

What do you love most about your job and being a mom?

Having children changed every single thought I ever had about my life. It was no longer about me and my husband but how we were going to give these two little human beings the tools they need to be outstanding people who will grow up to do and be whatever their hearts desire … I finally found my place in the universe. I found something I am good at and passionate about.

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Fave Five: Tyler Penning

Posted on 05 May 2010 by reema.ajram

tyler

Tyler Penning, 27, Iowa City
Account Executive @ Stamats Communications

millstream

Millstream Brewing Company
“Long live beer made in Iowa!” That’s Millstream’s motto, and I am sticking to it. A short drive from Iowa City or Cedar Rapids, Millstream brews some of my favorite beers. Their “Iowa Pale Ale” is the perfect end to a long day or a start to an early morning tailgate. They close early during the week, but check them out on a Saturday. Take a tour of the brewery and hang out in the beer garden; you will meet tourists from all over the country.

3sam
Three Samurai

Best sushi in the corridor. Period! A few years back, the thought of eating raw fish made me gag, but now I can’t get enough, and Three Samurai is the place to be. I eat here a few times a month with my girlfriend and her brother. They have ridiculous weekday specials and always treat us right. Don’t be intimidated if you have never tried sushi; they have every roll, from cooked steak and shrimp to raw exotic options I cannot even begin to pronounce. If you have questions, ask their manager Craig; he will hook you up!

margarita
Mondo’s Saloon
If you enjoy great margs and kitschy décor like I do, you will feel right at home. Mondo’s Saloon has great Southwestern food — I recommend the fish tacos. Located in the heart of Iowa City’s Ped Mall,
the Saloon is a great place to dine or just hang out
for a few adult beverages. Do a tequila or margarita flight: straight up, watermelon, pineapple & black pepper — they have so many options.

DOG
Cedar Rapids Animal Control
Six months ago, I hated cats — and then I met Milo. Someone (who shall remain nameless) had the bright idea that we needed a feline, so I ended up with a new furry companion. It is gratifying to know that we gave one of the many animals there a new home and bright future. The sad reality is that there are many more that need homes or your donations … or for you to just be a friendly volunteer.
Donate food, toys and, most of all, yourself to
CR Animal Control; it  will change your life.

KERNELS OPENING DAY
Summer Favorites/Best of the Rest!
I couldn’t pick just five,  so are the rest of my summertime favorites. I am from Le Mars — the Ice Cream Capital of the world and home of Wells’ Blue Bunny Ice Cream. There is nothing better on a hot summer day than a Bomb Pop, Bunny Tracks or anything else they produce. Lake Okoboji is my water destination of choice. Wow, I haven’t even mentioned baseball. The Hawks, Kernels, Iowa Cubs and the professional Cubs team that breaks my heart every year, hot dogs, beer? Yes, please! Golf, an ice cold John Daly (the beverage). And Templeton Rye — neat. Try it and thank me later.

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