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Fave Five: Kent Lehr

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Kent Lehr, 26, Iowa City/W. Des Moines
Iowa Health System

Shorts Burger and Shine
This place makes burgers, and they make them well. A lot of establishments in Iowa City do not place an emphasis on their food, but Shorts is an exception. Although they have a few chicken and veggie creations, the only reason to order either of those is because you have tried every burger. I can hardly think of a week that I didn’t meet friends for either lunch or dinner at Shorts. Some advice — try the Dundee.

Fit2Live
If you want a no frills gym, Fit2Live is the place. I love taking part in the CrossFit classes, which are great training for multisport athletes. Two days a week, I spend my evenings in the boxing/MMA clinics learning from Katy Klinefelter, a professional boxer and local celebrity. The people who work there are awesome, the facilities inspire hard work and you won’t have to navigate around tanning beds or cafes to reach the workout area, which should be the real reason you are there.

Tierra Coffee
I am not a library person, and there are way too many distractions at my house, so I usually like to study in a coffee shop. Tierra Coffee is a nice place to relax and hit the books. With free Internet, I can either get work done or take a break from studying. Their house coffees are large and will keep you going for hours. During the summer, sit outside next to the fountain.

Linn Street Café
This is my favorite restaurant in Iowa City. Everything on their menu is awesome, and they have a good wine list. The servers have good knowledge of the menu and how the food is prepared. Linn St. Café is perfect for date night, graduation dinners with the family or simply for an excellent meal before a night on the town. I highly recommend the short ribs or butternut squash ravioli.

Palisades-Kepler State Park
This park is a gem, and I have been enjoying it since doing my undergrad at Cornell College just down the road. They have everything from rock climbing to throwing a football on the sandbanks of the river. Once deep into the park, you forget that
10 minutes ago you turned off Highway 30. It’s quiet, beautiful and the perfect spot for an afternoon barbecue or picnic. Definitely take advantage of the many on-site charcoal grills.

Fave Five: Tim Hankewich

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Tim Hankewich, 42, Cedar Rapids
Music Director @ Orchestra Iowa

Monthly dinners at Croissant du Jour

dujour

Not only do they have the best pastries I’ve ever had, but their monthly gourmet prix fixe dinners are to die
for. Whenever I think of the best times I’ve had with friends in the area, I almost always think of my time there celebrating with a bottle of wine and a great meal. YUM!

Post concert drinks at Zins and Blend
Hmmm, I see a trend here.  I love hanging out downtown over a cocktail at these two establishments. I enjoy the quiet and elegant ambiance, which is perfect after a night of high adrenaline performance.

The Pedestrian Mall, Iowa City

pedmall

Spending an afternoon sipping coffee, reading a book while people watching on the Pedestrian Mall is one of my favorite pastimes. It’s a place where crowds of all stripes come together — intellectuals, artists and artisans, students, professionals and laborers. It’s an exciting soup of energy that makes this area special.

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and Kernels

roughriders

As a Canadian ex-patriot, I need to have my hockey fix. Ah the smell of ice and the sound of a clean body check — music to my ears! Always a great night out and the speed and skill level is very high. It’s a taste of home right here in Iowa. Of course the beer and hot dogs at Veterans Memorial Stadium for a Kernels baseball game are the makings of one of my favorite local experiences as well. Nothing can beat a baseball game under the spring sun in Iowa.

Arts and Culture
Nothing frustrates me more when I hear people say there is nothing to do here. NONSENSE! Whether it’s music (of course I’m biased towards Orchestra Iowa), the visual arts with so many amazing museums up and down the Corridor, or the great theater performances throughout the area, one could spend every night of the week experiencing something new and special. Coming from several larger cities, I’ve found that the access and quality of the arts here can equal and in many ways exceed those from larger centers. I’m proud to be living in an area that is so much more than just a 9-to-5 place to hang your hat. It’s more of a 24-7 place to live.

Fave Five: Sean Thompson

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Sean Thompson, 27, Iowa City
Editorial Associate @ University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Many Iowa Citians take for granted the UI Hospitals and Clinics, which are consistently ranked near the top in overall care and have the distinction of dozens of “onlys” to its credit both in the state of Iowa and nationwide. They also inspire volunteerism in thousands who give their own time and compassion to others, making UIHC the best place to volunteer.

The Java House
If you’re looking for a skinny mocha, a good conversation with a friend or a place to study or work quietly, the Java House in downtown Iowa City is your best option. There are few better ways to spend a bitterly cold winter night than inside with a warm drink. Why not do so with other cool people in a mellow, welcoming atmosphere? The loose-leaf teas really hit the spot, and did I mention the skinny mochas?

University of Iowa Athletics
If you’re looking for elite athletic displays, fervent fan involvement and jaw-dropping drama, there’s no better place to spectate than a University of Iowa athletic event. The football team provides arguably the best overall experience, but don’t forget the other sports, both men’s and women’s. If you’re wondering what to do on a Friday night, see if there’s a volleyball game in town.

vine
Vine
Iowa City/Coralville is home to countless quality eating establishments and a vibrant night life. But few places combine the two as well as The Vine. I’m partial to the downtown location, where a youthful crowd commingles with families and couples. It’s a great place to catch a game with other fans on one of the well-placed televisions. Be sure to try the Crispy Buffalo Chicken sandwich.

people

The people
The Corridor can be summed up in one word: amazing. My friends, my co-workers, the people I pass on the street are intelligent, good-tempered and genuinely nice individuals. The utter selflessness displayed over a year ago by Corridor residents during the flood of 2008 showed how incredible this community is. It was awesome to be part of, and a major reason why I came back to live in Iowa City.

An Iowa football fan’s Fave Five

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hawkeyefanaticOn game day, you are what you wear. And in Hawkeye Country, that means, you better have a closet (and a garage and a basement) full of black and gold. Here’s five things every (true) fan should have on game day.

no.   01 Game day bibs
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, these babies are quintessentially Midwestern football. The primary manufacturer of these beauts — Game Bibs — says “Players wear uniforms. Why shouldn’t their fans?” Hmm. Now, players running for the end zone in these striped numbers? That’s something we’d like to see. For now, though, we’re guessing the only field action these bibs will get is when fans rush the field after a big win. Oh well.

no.   02 Jersey
A fan is not a fan without a jersey (or five). Beyond the obvious need to have more than one (what happens if you drop queso?), a collection of jerseys is the mark of a true fan. Support your favorite player. Prove your 12th man status by sporting a jersey from the stands. The more diverse the collection, the better. Home jersey. Away jersey. Throwback jerseys. Alternate jerseys. And don’t forget the one that’s been with you from the beginning, the one that proves you’re not just a bandwagon fan.

no.   03 Face paint
OK. So this might only apply to the college-age fans among us. But hey, if you want to channel those halcyon days, here’s how: Moisture first (Yes. Guys, you too. It’ll keep you from itching.). Start with the good stuff — makeup used by the pros so it doesn’t melt off your face before the game starts. Using your fingers and triangle makeup sponges, apply gold first. Draw a line down the middle. Follow with black. If you really want a crisp line, find a black makeup crayon to add the finishing touch.

no.   04 Cold weather gear
It’s hard to remember at the beginning of the season, when the sun is shining and the sweat is pouring, but as the season progresses, game day gets downright cold. Fans who brave the chilly temps (especially for a 5 or 6 a.m. wake-up call) know bundling up is the way to go. Layers. Lots of layers. So, while a T-shirt or jersey is sufficient in September, you’ll want to stock up on gloves, scarves and hats (all in black and gold, of course). You won’t find any fairweather fans here. Snow? Bring it.

no.   05 All the extras
Cups, plates, tents, chairs, tables, games, grills, coolers, coozies. You name it. Someone, somewhere has slapped a tiger hawk on it and sold it for well beyond market value. Why? Because fans love it. It’s not a tailgate without a trunk full of Hawkeye paraphernalia. Really, does bean dip taste as good when it’s not served in a Hawkeye crock pot? We don’t think so.

Justin Foss’ Fave Five

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0806_hoo_fossfavefiveJustin Foss, 29, Cedar Rapids
Reporter @ KCRG-TV9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0806_hoo_favefivetwitterTwitter
I don’t have to describe Twitter in 140 characters, it’s just tweets that can only be that long. I use Twitter on an hourly basis. The simple on-line communication tool keeps me informed with what’s going on here in the Corridor; everywhere from Decorah to Iowa City. Here at KCRG, I use it to let people know what I’m working on, and they use it to tell me what to look into. BTW, my user name is @justinfoss

 

0806_hoo_favefivehockeyCedar Rapids RoughRiders
They’re a good team with a great following. I play in a hockey league at the Cedar rapids Ice Arena, and it’s a great feeling to step out on the same ice as them. From the cowbells to the rivalry with the Waterloo Blackhawks, Cedar Rapids has a good thing going with the constantly growing hockey tradition. Being from Minnesota, home of the Hockey Hall of Fame, it’s a welcome sight to see fans embracing this sport.

 

0806_hoo_favefiveparlorcitySweet Potato Fries at Parlor City Pub & Eatery
This bar and grill is a relative newcomer to the Cedar Rapids’ nightlife scene. It’s in the New Bohemia district (or more simply stated, across the street from the Chrome Horse). The bar has a great atmosphere and the fries are delicious! Even if you hate sweet potatoes — as I once did — you’ll love these fries that taste just a bit sweeter than normal.

 

 

08069_hoo_favefivemillstrea

Iowa brewed beverages
From Millstream Brewing in Amana, to Templeton Rye Whiskey, made in Templeton, this state has some of the best home-brews around. Not only is drinking one of Millstream’s brews a treat, but relaxing on their patio in Amana offers a great mingling experience with characters from across the country. Don’t count out the wineries either. Just last month Iowa was named to the newly formed Upper Mississippi River Valley wine region, covering 29,914 square miles, with parts of Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota. It’s 39 times larger than Napa Valley.

0806_hoo_favefivetrailCedar River Trail
If you’re not into playing real-life frogger, I suggest using the Cedar River Trail for some great biking or walking. Unfortunately, since the floods, this trail is in serious need of repair, and so far I haven’t seen much work on the hardest hit spots.

Ann Oleson’s Fave Five

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Ann Oleson, 33, Marion0709_hoo_oleson
Director of Consulting @ Stamats

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0709_hoo_favejoyJoy Boutique
Pick the best of each collection from New York fashion week, place it in a quaint little shop in Marion and the result is Joy Boutique. If you are looking for a unique piece that is outside of the ordinary, stop into Joy. The selection is topped only by the expertise and true style of the ladies who work at Joy. From fantastic evening wear to designer jeans and casual tees, Joy has it.

 

0709_hoo_favebrewedBrewed Awakenings
The recipe for success: Overstuffed sofas collide with an eclectic collection of fun and interesting art. Add coffee and you have heaven, aka Brewed Awakenings. The Liar’s Latte is the most perfect coffee drink served (no sugar needed). It actually is not on the menu, but if you are a fan of hazelnut, ask and the baristas will whip one up for you. They even top it off with a design in the foam that leaves you feeling like their drinks are made only for you. The perfect getaway for a morning meeting or a quiet place to catch up on some reading.

0709_hoo_favefarmersDowntown Cedar Rapids Farmers Market
Take 80-degree weather on a sunny Saturday morning in Cedar Rapids and there is no place more perfect than the Downtown Farmers Market. From beautifully cut fresh flowers to just-out-of-the-garden asparagus and tomatoes, the farmers market has the best of the fresh. Blocks of homemade treats, yard ornaments and crafts are only topped by a clown making balloon art for a line full of children. A true community event where you are guaranteed to run into friends.

0709_hoo_favelincolnLincoln Cafe
Pull back the heavy curtain and enter through a doorway on main street Mount Vernon and you will be welcomed to Lincoln Cafe. This small cafe hosts a specials’ board each evening with out-of-the-ordinary cuisine. The service is tremendous and the atmosphere quirky, cool and collegiate in feel. Lincoln Cafe does not hold a liquor license, which is part of the charm, so stop by next door before your dinner at the Lincoln Wine Bar. Pick a red or a white from an interesting collection of wines from across the world. Save room for dessert, which will be a palate pleaser for sure.

0709_hoo_favebrucemoreBrucemore
The lawn of Brucemore comes alive for the summer, hosting some of my all-time favorite events. From the Children’s Outdoor Theatre to Bluesmore to Balloon Glow, there is something for all ages. Bring a picnic basket and a blanket and let the talent of the actors entertain you in a performance of “The Classics.” Step outside of the lawn into the cutting gardens where a flower garden full of glory grows. If you want a just-cut-that-day arrangement created by a floral designer, the cutting gardens at Brucemore is your place.

Courtney Bond’s Fave Five

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0702_hoo_bondCourtney Bond, 24, Iowa City
Assistant Director of Membership and Marketing @ University of Iowa Alumni Association

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0702_hoo_favefivetrailsTrails
Nothing is more satisfying than a good workout and breathing in some fresh air. There are so many great trails to enjoy while doing just that! The nice thing is these trails are designed for so many types of activity, like cycling, walking, running and roller blading. That way you can do something you enjoy! I know I have logged quite a few hours on my bike preparing for RAGBRAI 2009.

0702_hoo_favefivegoodeatsGood Eats
Just coming off a trip to Tuscany, Italy, my mind is a bit preoccupied by food. All sorts of great savory meals! I’ll make this simple. My favorites in the area cover a large span but the big ones are Blackstones, Biaggi’s, Quintons, 126 and one could never leave out Marco’s. The mixture of locally owned and chain eateries leave few to desire anything else.

Art and culture0702_hoo_favefivearts
Between the Riverside Theatre, Englert, the University of Iowa and the large scale acts Cedar Rapids gets in, I feel this area provides big city entertainment with more of a little town atmosphere. Last month was the Iowa City’s Arts Fest and this weekend is Iowa City’s Jazz Fest. Again, another way to satisfy your senses and enjoy being outside and the day.

0702_hoo_favefivefootballHawkeye football
Go Hawks! I am a born and bred Hawkeye. There’s nothing more exhilarating than waking up at 6 a.m. to head down to Melrose Avenue for a beverage and to sample vendors that line the streets. That’s just one of the nice parts about staying in a college town after graduation — you get to continue the fun, but see the fun from the alumni angle. If you’re lucky, the alumni band will even find you on a side street and play the fight song.

Lake Macbride0702_hoo_favefivemacbride
While my Fave Five choices might indicate I am an outdoor girl, I tend to enjoy indoor activities such as ice skating as well. However, since establishing myself in the Corridor area, the plethora of outdoor opportunities has awakened my curiosity. Lake Macbride State Park’s 2,180 acres offer much for the outdoor enthusiast like fishing, picnicking, swimming, hiking, camping, boating and lots more. I’ve spent a lot of hours soaking up some rays (with sunscreen of course), cruising the waters on Dad’s speedboat and enjoying the Iowa shoreline from the water. This is truly a place to be you and relax.

Ashley Funkhauser’s Fave Five

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Ashley Funkhauser, 27, Iowa City0611_hoo_funkhauser1

Fundraising/Public Relations Coordinator @ Catherine McAuley Center

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0611_hoo_favefivejimmyJimmy Jack’s Rib Shack
Located by Sycamore Mall on the southeast side of Iowa City, Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack barbecue is the bomb.com. I lived in the South for a while, and I think that Jimmy Jack’s stacks up with the best of the southern barbecues. Get the pulled pork sandwich or rib dinner, choose your sides and sauce (cowboy for me, please) and don’t forget about the cornbread. With your order, this piece of goodness arrives on your plate, smothered in honey and is the size of your face. I bet your mom doesn’t make it this good.
Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack
1940 Lower Muscatine Rd., Iowa City
www.jimmyjacksribshack.com

0611_hoo_favefivepoolCity Park Pool
Ever since I was a student at the University of Iowa, I have loved Iowa City in the summertime and the pool at City Park. The pool is located in the middle of the park and is surrounded by huge, beautiful trees, grass and everything that reminds you of summer. If you want to catch some rays and don’t want to be bothered with kids, go from noon to 1 p.m. where it is adult lap swim. The pool is only used for laps but if you want to lay out next to the blue water, it’s not a problem. My only wish is that they would bring back the snow cone cart.
City Park Pool
200 E. Park Rd., Iowa City
www.icgov.org

0611_hoo_favfiveatlasAtlas
I love food and good drinks, and Atlas has them both. Atlas is the birthplace of the best “burritos” anywhere. My friends from Chicago will make a special trip to visit Atlas when in town because their buffalo chicken wrap can never be duplicated. A tortilla is filled with crispy chicken, mashed potatoes, celery, blue cheese and topped with fried onion strings; how could that be bad? Also, the mojitos are the best in the area. Lunch: get the half burrito, side salad combo. Dinner: get the BBQ Shrimp Voodoo appetizer, Iowa Pork tenderloin for an entree and the crème brulee for dessert.
Atlas
127 Iowa Ave., Iowa City
www.atlasiowacity.com

0611_hoo_favefivedowntownDowntown Iowa City Boutiques
From Iowa Avenue to the Pedmall on College Street, downtown Iowa City is filled with great places to shop. Ladies: go to Catherine’s, Dulcinea, Domby and Hebe. They are full of fun stuff ranging in price from “I’ll take three” to “whoa, that is more than my car loan payment!” Also, the Iowa Artisans Gallery has interesting one-of-a-kind jewelry and art pieces for all tastes. You can spend hours looking through the stores in these few blocks and find the most eccentric items you can in the Corridor.
Downtown Iowa City Boutiques
www.icdowntown.com

0611_hoo_favefiveicecreamHeyn’s Ice Cream
The other ice cream stores in Iowa City do not compare to this mom and pop ice cream shop located on the east side. The ice cream is made in this small no frills shop where there is always a variety of favors to taste. My favorite? Monster cookie. Full of candies, chocolate, oatmeal, peanut butter and everything else that makes up the infamous cookie; it’s a party in your mouth. Your trip to get ice cream will take you back home and make you feel like a kid again.
Heyn’s Ice Cream
811 S First Ave., Iowa City

Chad Kreel’s Fave Five

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0514_hoo_chadkreel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chad Kreel, 32, Mechanicsville
Director of Marketing @ Community Savings Bank

 

 

0514_hoo_favefivefishingThe great outdoors
For all those outdoor and nature nuts, you know what I’m talking about. Fishing and hunting are the name of the game. The thrill when your fishing pole gets a hit by something big and the prize and adrenaline rush when you’re bringing it in. There’s nothing like it! Bring it on!

 

 
0514_hoo_favefivecyclingCycling
I never thought I would be on the road, riding a bike. Now it’s in my blood. Where else can you hit the road, be competitive, and get a good workout? OK, I’m sure some of you have other things, but cycling is a workout like no other. You want to burn you legs up, hit the hill out on Rosedale off Mount Vernon Road.

 

 

MVRA TRAIL RUNRunning
Cinch up your laces and hit the road. Just like cycling, running gets in your blood and it doesn’t leave. Sure it hurts at the beginning, but just like all things, once you get used to it, you’ll want more. I take on the country gravel roads where I don’t have to worry so much about the busy traffic or idiots traveling Mach 1. As long as you’re not scared of the cow crap, or other animals in the country, I’d recommend you get out and try it. Who knows, you might like it.

 

0514_hoo_favefivefamilyThe fam
How many of you have families? Those that do know what I’m talking about when I say they are part of my fave five. The fun times outside with my boys, whether it’s playing catch or giving them an underdog on the swing. It’s all part of this thing we call life, and I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I’m a family guy. What can I say.

 

 

0514_hoo_favefivecountryCountry Living
If you’re reading this part last, you probably have me figured out. I’m a guy that loves to be outside, in the country and with the fam. It’s the best combination. Country living isn’t always about the idea of living in the country; rather it’s about neighbors who will help you out no matter what. It’s about the freedom to go outside and race a go-cart around the yard and make all the noise you want. You get my point.

Jason Siefken’s Fave Five

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 Jason Siefken, 36, Cedar Rapids

President @ SOS Sales Help 

 

 

 

American Skillet

The northwest side’s diamond in the rough. American Skillet serves up old fashioned diner-style meals all day long but is best known for its breakfasts. I think they have the best American fries in town which compliments their many breakfast entrees. They even cater to the health conscious patrons with their high fiber and fruit pancakes. Check out American Skillet for a great home-cooked dining experience.

American Skillet
4820 Johnson Ave. NW, Cedar Rapids

 

Bushwood Sports Bar & Grill

Whether you’re looking to catch a game or simply catch up with friends, Bushwoods Sports Bar & Grill is a fun place to spend an evening. Bushwood caters to the sports fans with several large screen TV’s and a pool table. They also have local talent like Jeff Bruner providing entertainment on select evenings. With a new outdoor patio I am sure Bushwood will continue to be a hit this summer. Check them out on Facebook!

 Bushwood Sports Bar & Grill
350 Edgewood Rd. NW, Cedar Rapids

 

Chrome Horse Saloon

In addition to live music and the nostalgia of a Harley-themed saloon, the Chrome Horse is also well known for its motorcycle-themed menu. My favorite: the spark plugs! The Chrome Horse was a victim of the June 2008 flood and has recently reopened with an even better looking bar and restaurant. From live music to great food, the Chrome Horse is an all around favorite. Whether your bike has pedals or a motor, all bikers are welcome.

 Chrome Horse Saloon
1202 Third St. SE, Cedar Rapids
www.chromehorsesaloon.net

 

Bloomsbury Farm

Anyone who has ever experienced the joy of getting lost in a corn maze certainly understands why Bloomsbury Farm is on of my Fave Fives. Each year the team at Bloomsbury amazes us with a new exciting themed corn maze, hay rack rides, petting zoo, gift shop and many other activities. I highly recommend the corn cannon as a great stress reliever. I have conducted several company team building events where everyone had an amazing time. Whether it’s for a work event, to check out a haunted hay rack ride or a place to take the young children to pick out pumpkins, Bloomsbury Farm is a must visit every fall.

 Bloomsbury Farm
3260 69th St., Atkins
www.bloomsburyfarm.com

 

Leonardo’s

Pizza, sandwiches and great spirits! Leonardo’s has been a trademark restaurant on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids for decades. From its dim lighting to red leather walls there is no other place around like it. My wife and I are especially fond of their Saturday hamburger specials, and don’t forget those waffle fries! You may want to check your diet at the door.

 Leonardo’s
2228 16th Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids