Staker, Ferentz finalists for award

Coe College football coach Steve Staker (Division III) and Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz (FBS) are finalists for Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Awards.

Winners get $50,000 to donate to charity and a $20,000 grant for the school’s alumni association for scholarships and activities.

Vote through Dec. 29 at www.CoachoftheYear.com

Fan votes constitute 20 percent of a coach’s final score with a panel of media and former players coaches making up the rest. Winners will be announced Jan. 6.

Winners will receive $20,000 to their school’s alumni association and $50,000 to the his charity of his choice.

There are only two Monday Night Football games left. Week 15 brings us to Cocktails & Company at 1625 Blairs Ferry Rd. in Cedar Rapids for a game between the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants. The defending Super Bowl champions are struggling to save their season and the Redskins are hoping to play spoiler on their home turf.

Cocktails & Company is a large sports bar that features live music on the weekends and is also the ‘unofficial’ home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Since this bar hosts bands, there is always plenty of room for a large party to grab a seat and watch the game on one of the four HDTVs, or if the game is big enough, on one of two HD projectors. Cocktails also has a side room which is home to several pool tables, dart boards and video games to help pass the time if the game is boring.

The bar features several rotating draft choices as well as a full line of bottles. Cocktails is one of the few bars on the Pints & Pigskins tour which served pitchers of beer, reasonably priced at around $7.

The menu at Cocktails is quite large and has many tasty items to choose from. In addition to burgers, salads and wraps, they also offer pizza. The pizza wasn’t anything unique, but it was pretty good and really nailed my craving for bar pizza. Cocktails also has a few types of wings, including a “Cocktails specialty” wing which is generously coated in a spicy batter and fried to perfection. They were great and I can’t wait to have them again.

This was a good bar to take in a game, although I really wish I would have attended for a Steelers game. I’ll have to make a mental note for next season. The food was good, beer was cold and
there was plenty of space for all the Monday
Night football groups.

— DEREK

 Hershey’s and the NCAA are looking for the ULTIMATE college football fan.

Now through November 3, prove youare the biggest college football fan by showing off your school spirit in an online video competition for the chance to win a $1,000 VISA gift card and the grand prize:  a trip for four and tickets to a

For more information, go to  www.hersheysbigfan.com

Here’s an example of the type of video they are looking for:

The operators of the Magic Bus, the iconic tailgating spot south of Kinnick Stadium, hope to keep the party going next football season.

But the Iowa City Rugby Football Club, which has title to the bus, is negotiating rent with the new owner of the property on Melrose Avenue where the bus parks, and it sounds like the bus’ future is in doubt.

When asked for a prediction on whether the Magic Bus would be open next year, Jason Feuerbach, president of the rugby club, said: “I don’t want to speculate. I’m just going to say I hope we are.”

The Magic Bus got its start in 1990, when a University of Iowa senior bought a school bus to take down to the Hawkeyes game at Miami. Since then, it’s been mentioned in Playboy and Sports Illustrated and is visited by hundreds of tailgaters each Iowa home game.

News that the end may be near for the Magic Bus spread rapidly today after another rugby club member posted a message on Facebook saying the new landowner was asking too much for rent.

“We will not pay what they want for next year. … If it is over after this year it has been a good run and we thank you for the support,” Jeremy Freerks wrote.

Freerks made similar comments to the Iowa City Press-Citizen. He did not immediately return phone and e-mail messages from The Gazette.

Tracy Barkalow, a partner in the Iowa City company that bought the property for $500,000 in August, said he has not made any decisions on rent but otherwise had no comment.

Feuerbach, 26, of Coralville, said the bus will stay put this year and they’re talking about rent for next year. He declined to discuss specifics.

“We’re going to do whatever we can to keep it there,” he said. “And if it doesn’t work out there, we’re going to see if we can’t find something else. And if we can’t find something else that’s worthwhile, then we’ll close the doors.”

Feuerbach said the bus raises about $10,000 a year for charity. In his Facebook message, Freerks wrote that it takes about $10,000 a day to operate the bus, which features music, alcohol and food.

Victor Wooten

Thursday, September 17

Victor Wooten is bringing the bass to Iowa City. And he’s doing it with pretty powerful credentials in tow. He’s the only three-time winner of Bass Player magazine’s Bass Player of the Year. When he’s not performing and recording as a soloist, he’s a member of Bela Fleck & The Flecktones. And not only has he released an award-winning album — “Palmystery” in 2008 — but Wooten’s also written a book and runs a music retreat for artist. Whew! Don’t miss his unique blend of jazz, funk, pop, soul and gospel when Wooten and his bass guitar hit the Picador on Thursday night.

Victor Wooten

10 p.m. Thursday (09/17), $21 and $25, Picador, 330 E. Washington St., Iowa City, (319) 354-4788

Uptown College District Fall Festival
Saturday, September 19

Stop by the First Avenue Uptown College District on Saturday during its annual Fall Festival. Kick things off with 2-for-1 breakfast at Hy-Vee (1556 First Ave.) or 2-for-1 coffee at Brewed Awakenings (1271 First Ave.). At 1 p.m., watch the Kohawks take on Luther College at Coe College’s Clark Field. Then head to Xavier’s (1401 First Ave.) or the Tic Toc (600 17th St.) after the game to grab a beverage.
First Avenue Uptown College District Fall Festival
7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday (9/19), First Avenue, Cedar Rapids between 10th and 20th streets, various costs, www.uptowncollegedistrict.com

Landfall Festival of World Music
Sunday through September 27

Where can you find eight days of live world music performed for free in the Corridor? In Greene Square Park, of course! Legion Arts — the non-profit organization that runs CSPS — has organized the second annual Landfall Festival of World Music. And the result is an eclectic line up of some 50 artists from ten countries — including Algeria, Mexico, China, Hungary and Australia. Check out www.legionarts.org for a schedule.
Landfall Festival of World Music
Various times, Sunday (9/20) to Sept. 27, Greene Square Park, corner of Third Avenue and Fifth Street in Downtown Cedar Rapids, Free, (319) 364-1580, www.legionarts.org

Three other things

SPT Theatre Company’s
“Organized Spontaneity”
7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, 410 Third Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, $20, (319) 361-5297, www.
spttheatre.org

Music in the MUD: Grey Slate and The John Shultz Trio
6 to 10 p.m. Saturday
Campbell Steele Gallery, 1064 Seventh Ave., Marion, $5 cover charge, (319) 373-9211, www.campbellsteele.com

Honey Fest
1 to 4 p.m. Sunday
Indian Creek Nature Center, 6665 Otis Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids, $2 per person, (319) 362-0664, www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org

On 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.

As any true fan will tell you, tailgating is just as essential as watching the game. When it comes time to scout out your spot, make sure you get there early, dress appropriately (in Hawkeye gear, of course), and have plenty of food and beverage with you (the last thing you want to do is run out of chow). Many tailgating addicts are still mourning the loss of the Field House and Olive Court lots, but there are plenty of other options.

--LEAH

Dental Lot (reserved)
This lot is right next to Carver – it’s a reserved lot that is family-friendly and a bit calmer than some of your other choices. People are welcoming and it’s easy to strike up conversations with fellow fans.

Stadium Lot (reserved)
The big-time donors tailgate here, and you’ll see lots of flat-screen TVs, big speakers, etc. It’s a small lot, but is lots of fun. Those without tickets often hang out here to watch the game on TV.

Melrose Court (general)
This is where many of the college students head (or people who want a good show). Every house on the block participates in the party. Close to the stadium
and located on a dead-end street, almost anyone can walk up and join in on this big celebration.

Myrtle (general)
A good mix of students and adults, this lot took on many tailgaters when the Olive Court lot closed. The location of this space is good, but it’s farther from Kinnick than some might like. A plus: There’s a gas station at the bottom of the hill in case you need more supplies.

Magic Bus (general)
Sports Illustrated once dubbed this the No. 1 tailgating spot in the United States. On the south side of Kinnick, the Magic Bus sits across the street from the stadium. There’s a $10 charge to get in, but the beer is free once you pay. This option fills fast, so get there early.

Finkbine (general/reserved)
This spot is pretty big, and you can find a wide variety
of people here. Olive Court tailgaters were encouraged by the University of Iowa to make this their new tailgating spot last year. It’s located just a few blocks west of the stadium; the walk down Melrose Avenue from Finkbine toward Kinnick has an atmosphere that’s just as fun and energetic as the act of tailgating itself.

Before you head out for the day, make sure you have the info you need:

•  Certain University of Iowa lots open at 7 p.m. on the Friday before home games. All other lots are open at
  7 a.m. on game day.
• Tents/tarps are only allowed if they don’t hinder traffic or extend into an extra parking spot.
  l Wood fires aren’t allowed (only gas or charcoal in approved grills).
•  Saving spaces for other tailgaters isn’t allowed.
• You can’t use extra parking spaces to set up grills, trailers, tents, chairs, etc.
• No visible kegs, hard liquor or glass bottles are permitted.
• For more information, go to www.hawkeyesports.com/gameday/

Kelsey Tumey, 24

Cedar Rapids, Business Systems Analyst @ Rockwell Collins

Hawkeye Football

We love visiting Iowa City during Hawkeye Football season for the contagious energy and atmosphere.  The city is filled with loyal Iowa Fans tailgating in black & gold.  The Iowa Hawkeye spirit not only fills Iowa City, but the entire Eastern Iowa area. 

Hawkeye Football

http://hawkeyesports.cstv.com/

Canoeing/Riverfloating down the Maquoketa River

This is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the Iowa scenery along the Maquoketa River near Monticello.  The trip takes nearly half the day to travel, and then you have a chance to camp and enjoy the Iowa outdoors. 

Canoeing/Riverfloating down the Maquoketa River

http://www.mcdonoughcanoerentals.com/

Amana Colonies

Visits to the Amana Colonies, 17 miles southwest of Cedar Rapids on Hwy 151, for the great food and festivities are always enjoyable.  There are a number of different festivities that are held year round.  Amana also offers the local Millstream Brewery and many local wineries. 

Amana Colonies

http://www.amanacolonies.org/

61 Drive-In Movie Theater

Not just your ordinary movie setting, the 61 Drive-In, located five miles south of Maquoketa

of Hwy 61, is a great way to get outside and enjoy something unique.  This is a great activity for couples, groups and kids.

61 Drive-In Movie Theater

http://www.maquoketa.com/61drivein/

Sundown Mountain

As the closest destination for Iowa skiing, Sundown Mountain, 16991 Asbury Rd, outside Dubuque, offers hills for all levels.  A quick day trip is a great get-a-way over the weekend in the winter months. 

Sundown Mountain

http://www.sundownmtn.com/

Natalie Nielsen 23, Iowa City

University of Iowa Alumni Class of 2008

My Brothers

Being a graduate of the University of Iowa, I’m pretty die-hard about being a Hawkeye. I haven’t missed a home game in the last five years, and I don’t plan on missing any in the next five. It also helps that I have two brothers that play football for Iowa so I get to hear about all of the hard work that the team puts into preparing for the season. I’ll just say that it’s not all fun and games. It makes me very thankful that the guys are so dedicated, because I think you’d be pretty hard-pressed to find another group willing to submit themselves to several weeks of two-a-days for camp in the extreme heat of August.

“Back in Black” & “Start Me Up”

The excitement level in Kinnick escalates as the jumbotron flashes video of “the Swarm” heading out of the locker room on the way to the field. “Back in Black” by AC/DC and “Start Me Up” by the Rolling Stones blare across the loudspeakers as thousands of fans get on their feet high-fiving and talking smack about how badly the Hawks are going to beat the opposing team. The giant flags spelling out I-O-W-A go up as the cheerleaders lead the team onto the field and the game gets underway.

Fans

It never ceases to amaze me the sheer number of followers that the Iowa Hawkeyes have not only in Iowa, but all over the country. This past season I have been to almost all of the away games, and let me tell you. There is a reason they call Minnesota Kinnick North. If I had to guess, I would say there were probably almost as many Hawk fans there as there were Golden Gophers. I won’t start in about the Bowl Game, but for any of you that have ever been, you know about Hawk support in postseason play.

Tailgating

It’s 7 a.m. and I’m walking down Melrose in front of the stadium on game day. The road is already partially blocked off and the guy who sells Big Ass Turkey Legs is shouting at people stumbling by. Smells of BBQ and beer hang in the air, and there are about 40,000 other die-hards who have had their game face on since 6:30 a.m. or earlier. As I make my way to my preferred tailgating spot on Olive Court listening to the Iowa Fight Song streaming from cars all around, I smile to myself as I realize that there is a reason “in heaven there is no beer”. Two words. Hawkeye Tailgating. Go big or go home.

Herky

Cheers erupt as Herky sticks the flag into the Kinnick field. Only around since 1959, Herky has become one of the most recognizable aspects of Hawkeye sports. Climbing over the wall that is supposed to keep fans off the field – unless the Hawks win a big game, in which case Per Mar security has no hope – Herky gets friendly with fans by giving hugs, high-fives, and photo opportunities. Check out the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame to see how Herky has become what he is today.

Herky, Iowa City
Mascot, University of Iowa

Herky the Hawk is a man (and yes, he’s a dude) about campus with a cachet quotient any University of Iowa co-ed would envy.

He can make 70,000 fans at Kinnick Stadium go nuts with a flip of a feathered wing. From Arizona to the Alamo, that hulking head (the heaviest in the NCAA) is a ticket to any Iowa fan’s heart.

Born more than fifty years ago, Herky started out as a simple caricature drawn by UI journalism professor Dick Spencer at the request of the athletic department’s business director Frank Havlick. He took to the football field for the first time in 1959.

His first costume was chicken wire and papier-mache. Today the heads cost nearly $6,000 each and are made in the Twin Cities by the same company that makes Elmo and Oscar The Grouch.

Half a century ago Herky looked like a cross between Woody Woodpecker and a bald eagle. His snarl  evolved more recently. The universal Herky – the one used in promotional materials by the school – was drawn by Iowa City native Charles Reed, who was inspired by Mighty Mouse and wrestler Barry Davis.

The name Herky, short for Hercules, was the brainchild of John Franklin of Belle Plaine who won a statewide competition to name the feathered fellow.

The names of the six UI students behind the character aren’t so well known.

Their identities are a secret. Don’t try to ask Herky who he is either. Ever noticed that he doesn’t talk? It’s all part of the persona.

For decades members Delta Tau Delta manned Herky’s nest. Now his digs are with the athletic department and students audition each spring for one of around a place in the Herky flock and a chance to be part of the UI tradition.

The students spend five to fifteen unpaid hours a week portraying Herky at sporting and community events. They also meet every week with Gregg Niemiec, who heads Iowa Spirit Squads, to practice the Herky’s signature strut and other moves like the high fives, basketball shots and autograph.

– Compiled by Carly Weber

Did you know: Herky almost got the boot in the early 1960s when he ripped the tail off Northwestern University’s Wildcat.

What he can do for you: Herky is the physical manifestation of Hawkeye nation. Need we say more?