DECEMBER 2012 WARTBURG CHRISTMAS
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CIRQUE HOLIDAZE
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BIG SCREEN RUNDOWN
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BLOWN AWAY
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IN GOOD TASTE PULSE
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contents Naughty or nice?
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Do you hear what I hear? That’s right, Santa Baby. It’s a list of the best and worst of Christmas songs. See if your picks and pans made our list.
Sound tracks
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Prequel of all prequels
pixelated presents Need a gift for a gamer? Check our handy-dandy guide. And don’t miss reviews of the year’s biggest games, as well as our handson impressions of the Wii U.
The soundtrack from The Man With the Iron Fists, filled with hip-hop’s heavy hitters, is worth a listen in spite of a few misses on board.
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Killer Karaoke Steve-O is back, and he’s back with more jackasses than ever. No, not those Jackasses. These jackasses are contestants on his new TruTv show, Killer Karaoke.
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DECEMBER 2012
Issue No. 99
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THAT'S
WHAT'S UP As I write this, Christmas is a few short weeks away. I’m not panicking yet, but ... OK, I’m PANICKING! I haven’t even started my Christmas shopping. It’s not completely off my radar — my family’s wish lists have started rolling in. So far, it seems I’ll be looking for a Celtics jersey (Rajon Rondo or Paul Pierce), a Chicago Bulls snapback, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 and a very particular pair of Nike socks. And they say nobody wants socks for Christmas.
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The Pulse staff has put together its own Christmas wish list on page 12. It seems we’ve got a chef, a tech nerd, an athlete, an avid reader, a beer lover and an absent-minded professor on board. Who knew? Maybe something on this list will resonate with you. At the very least, when your salty aunt Margie messages you on “The Facebook” asking what you want for Christmas, you can refer her to our list. Maybe she’ll even find something for herself. The Margaritaville mixed drink maker might be a good choice.
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Pulse Editor
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Sheila Kerns 319.291.1448 sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com
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Alan Simmer 319.291.1487 alan.simmer@wcfcourier.com
CREATIVE CREW
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Grandeur rest ored
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DECEMBER SCHEDULE Dec. 1-2 | The Nutcracker presented by Orchestra Iowa and Ballet Quad Cities Dec. 4 | Cirque Dreams Holidaze presented by Orchestra Iowa Dec. 9 | Holiday Grande 2012 Jim McDonough Dec. 15-16 | Orchestra Iowa presents Holiday Spectacular Dec. 22 | On a Winter’s Night Jim Brickman Dec. 30 | Public tours 800.369.8863 | paramounttheatrecr.com
PULSE
ANGIE HOLMES | Pulse Writer
I
n June 2008, more than 34 feet of water filled the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids. Water filled the sub-basement, the basement and 8 feet of the main floor. “It was the largest swimming pool in the Midwest,” said Jim Hoffman, chairman of the reconstruction committee, at an Oct. 26 ribbon-cutting ceremony. “It’s been a labor of love.” The historic flood ravaged the historic venue, shuttering its doors for more than four years. In November, the Paramount reopened after a nearly $35 million project that restored it to its former grandeur and added to its magnificence via much-needed upgrades. “There is no new building that looks like this, this is state-of-the-art,” said Paramount General Manager Jason Anderson. A team of architectural experts from across the country was assembled, said project architect Michael Thomas of OPN Architects in Cedar Rapids, and every surface of the building has been restored with the hands of historic forensic specialists, paint and plaster consultants and skilled workers. A comtempory lobby greets visitors, and the mirrors and chandeliers in the Hall of Mirrors, originally fashioned after one at the Palace of Versailles, have been meticulously cleaned and resurfaced. The lobby is connected to the Opus Concert Café, which serves light concessions, beer, wine and soda. A new concessions and bar space has also been built in the lower level. Among the most noticeable changes in the theater are wider seats on the main floor, loge and balcony and added leg room on the main floor. Seating capacity is now 1,700, down from a little more than 1,900 before the renovation. “We lost about 200 seats, but there is so much more leg room and the seats are more comfortable,” Anderson said. The larger stage and area behind it allows for more scenery and gives performers more room to change costumes and move around backstage. It also will attract larger-scale productions. “Previously, the stage was too small for some shows,” said John Ryan of Ryan Companies of Cedar Rapids, the renovation’s project management firm. Before the renovation, the orchestra pit could accommodate 14 musicians. It now holds 50. The historic Mighty Wurlitzer organ console, which has been rebuilt, has its own chamber and can be moved rather than remaining on stage right. While the console is back home at the Paramount, the Wurlitzer’s pipes are still being restored in Reno, Nev., and should be done by next summer. When the organ is back in play, it will sound even better with the theater’s upgraded acoustics. All of the upgrades will bring a variety of shows and artists to the theater. Additionally, a new partnership between VenuWorks and Orchestra Iowa will allow the Paramount to seek and bring in more high-profile acts. “It certainly has been quite a journey to get to this day,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Ron Corbett at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “We have taken a great historic building and preserved aspects and enhanced and modernized it.”
PULSE
Christmas With Wartburg
And God said: The day shall dawn to bring a flower, newly born; from thy stem in fullness growing, in fragrance sweet, night and morn, all my people shall adorn, with breath of life bestowing. Alleluia. — Composer Arthur Honegger
melody parker | Pulse writer
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he rose has special significance for Christians. The flower symbolizes the Virgin Mary, and the winter rose signifies the birth of Christ. The rose also symbolizes the crucifixion — the five rose petals denote the five wounds of Christ. It also will have special significance for concertgoers at this year’s Christmas With Wartburg, The Winter Rose Blooms, Rejoice, a motif that occurred to director Lee Nelson during last year’s holiday concerts that included the piece Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming. “This theme gives a richness to the season that is different than in previous years. There is the contrast of the winter rose with snow to signify the purity of the Christ child’s birth, and thorns, of course, referencing Christ’s crown of thorns,” explained Nelson, associate professor of music. More than 300 college students will perform at
the 65th annual concerts, featuring the Wartburg Choir, the Castle Singers jazz ensemble and the Wind Ensemble, as well as the all-male Ritterchor, the all-female St. Elizabeth Chorale and the Handbell Choir. Highlights will include new compositions by Wartburg students, graduates and professors. Kathyrn Koob and Donald Meyer again will serve as narrators. “They each have unique characteristics to their voices that when I was writing the text and choosing different poetry and prose, I could almost hear their voices. There is a fair amount of poetry and lyrics that are not scripture but are religious texts, so that’s another change,” Nelson noted. The Ritterchor also will perform a new piece, I
See Blood Upon the Rose, and professor of music and college organist Karen Black has done a new arrangement of Rejoice, Rejoice Believers. “I can’t quantify the importance of Christmas With Wartburg for the students and for me. It’s a way we can use our gifts to say thank you to family and friends. It is our gift to the community, and the community’s support speaks deeply to our students,” Nelson said.
Christmas With Wartburg Saturday, Dec. 1 @ 3 and 7:30 PM Sunday, Dec. 2 @ 3 PM Wartburg College, Waverly $5, $15 wartburg.edu/christmas, 319.352.8691
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A Christmas Carol In Charles Dickens’ classic, Ebenezer Scrooge’s heart is transformed from a cold lump of coal to a warm, colorful diamond. Join the Wartburg Players and the Wartburg Community Symphony as they portray Scrooge’s transformation after visits from three spirits. Opera star Simon Estes will be featured in the performance.
A Christmas Carol Wartburg Community Symphony Sunday, Dec. 9, @ 3 PM Wartburg College, Waverly $15 | 319.352.8200, wartburg.edu/symphony
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Be your own Santa.
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Give yourself the gift of entertainment at CVPulse.com.
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Cirque Dreams Holidaze It’s a delicious confection of charm, dreds of astonishing costumes and holiday sparkle and talent. Cirque Dreams Holidaze dreams in a setting of gigantic gifts, colossal will bring a boatload of holiday glitz to the candy canes and 30-foot towering soldiers. Adler Theatre in Davenport, transforming the stage into a wonderland of fantasy Cirque Dreams Holidaze and disbelief. Experience gingerbread men Sunday, Dec. 2 @ 7 PM flipping midair, toy soldiers marching on Adler Theatre, Davenport thin wires, snowmen daringly balancing, $37, $47, $57 icemen powerfully sculpting, penguins ticketmaster.com, 800.745.3000 spinning, puppets dancing and reindeer Tuesday, Dec. 4 @ 7:30 PM soaring high above a landscape of holiday Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids wonderment. An original music score and $45-$60 some seasonal favorites accompany hun- paramounttheatrecr.com
Cirque du Soleil Quidam Young Zoe is bored. Her parents, dis- cians, singers and characters. tant and apathetic, ignore her. Her life has lost all meaning. Seeking to fill the void of Cirque du Soleil Quidam her existence, she slides into an imaginary Saturday, Dec. 22 @ 3:30 and 7:30 PM world — the world of Quidam — where Sunday, Dec. 23 @ 1 and 5 PM she meets characters who encourage her Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines to free her soul. This show’s international $28-$75, 866.553.2457 cast features 52 world-class acrobats, musi- cirquedusoleil.com/quidam
PULSE 11
All I want for Christmas
Here at Pulse, we’re devoted to giving you the best info on all the cool stuff to do in Iowa. All we want in return is for you to read Pulse ’til the cows come home. We give so much and ask for so little because that’s how we roll. So indulge us for just a moment while we show you what’s at the top of the Pulse staff’s holiday wish lists. You may even find something to add to your own list.
Macbook Pro with Retina display Basic 13-inch model: $1,699 The Retina display on the new Macbook laptops looks so good, it’s almost unnecessary. And everything else under the hood makes it one of the most powerful and awesome laptops on the market. — Chris E., online
Moleskine Beer Journal 5 by 8.25 inches, 240 pages: $19.95 It will aid me on my quest to consume every craft beer on the planet, logging my process and reviews along the way. — Jared M., writer
Click n Dig Key Finder Radio-frequency locator with remote: $35.95 I am always losing my keys. Maybe this could help, assuming I can keep track of the remote. — Emily C., writer
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Kindle Fire 7-inch model with special offers: $159 Why? Well, why not? It looks like fun! — Melody P., writer
Splash-Proof Super-Fast Thermapen With silicone boot: $97 My instant-read thermometer has been on the fritz, and this model comes highly recommended. Plus it comes in yellow, which is my favorite color. It’s meant to be. — Alan S., associate editor
Giant cat tree condo Go Pet Club Cat Tree, 72 inches high: $129.99 I know. I’m the crazy cat lady. I swear I only have two. — Emily S., designer
Margaritaville Mixed Drink Maker After 25% discount: $300 As seen on South Park, this piece of booze-dispensing hardware actually exists. Does it work? I don’t know, but I certainly wouldn’t mind finding out. — James F., writer
e p
Really, really big TV
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92-inch Mitsubishi 742 Series: $4,779 I would really like a giant TV for Christmas so I can watch old Star Trek episodes in style. Maybe my favorite sister will buy it for me. Are you listening, Meta? Live long and prosper. — David H., designer
Nike + SportWatch GPS With sensor in Volt/Black: $169 With this bad baby I can track distance, pace, time, calories burned and more. Once home, I can upload all my nerdy run data to my training log at nikeplus.com via a direct-connect USB port. — Meta H., editor
MOBILE WALLA
Recording and editing video and music have never been easier. Whether you are a professional looking to quickly lay down music tracks or an 8-year-old looking to create a music video, these apps will do the trick.
APPLE
■ Stick It Action ($0.99): Create your own stick-figure animations with ease. Share your masterpieces or integrate them with other videos. (Score: 86/100) ■ Movie Creator ($0.99): Easily shoot, edit, share and enjoy professional-looking videos right on your iPhone or iPad. (Score: 78/100) ■ iRig Recorder Free (Free): As a stand-alone app, it offers quality sound recording and editing. Couple it with external accessories such as the iRig mic and you have a full-blown handheld studio. (Score: 71/100) ■ iVideoCamera ($0.99): Spice up your phone’s video camera with extra recording effects. (Score: 54/100) ■ VideoStar (Free): Kids will love this sound-and-video-editing suite that allows you to upload your favorite songs from iTunes and create professional-style music videos. (Score: 54/100)
ANDROID
■ RecForge Lite Audio Recorder (Free): Record your own voice or music tracks with this high-quality sound recorder. (Score: 82/100) ■ TapeMachine Recorder ($3.99): Record your very own music tracks with multiple sound effects and output methods. (Score: 81/100) ■ AndroVid Video Trimmer (Free): It’s like having a full editing suite on your phone. Cut, trim, add effects and share your work on social media. (Score: 51/100) ■ Electrum Drum Machine/ Sampler ($4.49): Create your own drum tracks that can be exported in MP3 format. (Score: 45/100) ■ Magisto Magical Video Editor (Free)*: Simply upload videos you have taken from your phone or tablet and Magisto does all of the editing and sound effects for you. Very simple, and the result is entertaining. (Score: 42/100)
Apps with an asterisk are available on Apple and Android. For more, go to Mobilewalla.com. PULSE 13
PULSE HIT LIST OUR CHRISTMAS PICKS AND CHRISTMAS PANS
N I C E
Last ChristmaS Wham The video for this song has a place in my heart. Oh, George Michael, you are such a romantic.
Do You Hear What I Hear? Andy Williams
Linus and Lucy Bela Fleck and the Flecktones
A classic rendition that reminds us Christmas is more than a government-mandated holiday and a marketing exercise.
David H.
A Charlie Brown classic redone by four of the most talented musicians in the world. What more could you ask for?
James F.
Chris E.
OUR MOST FAVORITES
Ding Dong! Merrily on High Charlotte Church
Silent Night It’s quiet, uplifting and deeply touching.
A tough choice (sorry, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas!) but the sheer joy of this song makes it a great holiday listen.
Melody P.
Alan S.
O Holy Night Nat King Cole I love Nat King Cole’s version of O Holy Night more than I love eggnog with rum, Christmas presents and most members of my family. Meta H.
White Christmas Michael Buble feat. Shania Twain
I’ll Be Home for Christmas The Beach Boys
Buble’s voice is so silky smooth it makes me want to snuggle up by a fire with some hot chocolate ... and him.
Terrible, I know. But it reminds me of my childhood when Mom would pop on the record and we’d decorate the house.
Emily S.
Angie D.
Mr. Hankey the Christmas Poo South Park LOVE IT
To hear our favorite sounds of the season, check out this Spotify playlist.
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Silent Night I have always loved this song. There is just something about it that says Christmas, but not the crazy consumer side — rather, the nice, snuggle-with-your-family side of Christmas. Emily C.
Always good for a Santa-sized laugh. Jared M.
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Ding Fries Are Done Billy
The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late) Alvin & The Chipmunks
This parody about working at Burger King has forever ruined Carol of the Bells for me. Would you like an apple pie with that?
My least favorite? Anything sung using the Chipmunks’ voices (shudder). Jared M.
Emily S.
OUR LEAST FAVORITES Santa Baby Eartha Kitt A suggestive sexpot sings to Santa like he’s a sugar daddy. Gross. Meta H.
A Holly Jolly Christmas Burl Ives After working until 3 a.m. I had the misfortune of waking up to this blaring on my kids’ radio. Santa’s putting coal in their stockings this year.
All I Want for Christmas Is You Mariah Carey I wouldn’t call this a song, exactly. It’s a lot of painful screeching with a cheery, cheesy chorus. It’s my definition of Christmas hell.
Christmas Wrapping The Waitresses Not only does this song have atrocious lyrics, horrible vocals and cheesy saxophone solos, it stretches on a whopping seven minutes. Seven. Freakin’. Minutes.
Emily C.
Angie D.
Chris E.
My Favorite Things Tony Bennett
The Little Drummer Boy Though I dislike most Christmas music (I’m a Grinch, sue me), I have to rank this song as the worst. Pa rum pum pum pum? Come on!
This. Is. Not. A. Christmas. Song. Julie Andrews is rolling over in her grave. Tony’s not the only offender here, but his lounge lizard version is the worst.
David H.
Alan S.
LOathe IT Do They Know It’s Christmas Band-Aid It has some of the stupidest lyrics ever written. Melody P.
The Twelve Days of Christmas It’s not an inherently bad song, but when listening to a poor version or a lame parody, it just keeps on going.
Suffer through our least favorite Christmas songs by scanning here.
James F.
PULSE 15
Jared Molstead | Pulse Writer
A
nyone with a passing knowledge of East Coast rap legends WuTang Clan and their producer frontman RZA is undoubtedly also aware of their pseudo-Asian fetishism. It was only fitting that RZA’s film directorial debut would be a blood-spattered kung-fu remix with plenty of hip-hop fortitude. Thus we arrive at the patchwork soundtrack to The Man With the Iron Fists, a hip-hop showcase that reads like a curtain call for the genre’s biggest names. We get tracks from staple artists like RZA, WuTang Clan, Kanye West and Wiz Khalifa. The wrecking crew RZA has brought aboard like to mine a lot of different tonal and influential veins, and we end up with a disc that works quite well as a singles showcase but falters as an album experience. Wu-Tang Clan expectedly brings the biggest lashing of hot fire, spitting venom and gloriously self-indulging in the chance to
The Man With the Iron Fists by various artists Genre: Hip-hop, rap Sounds like: Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon
thebottomline: B+
definitelydownload 4 Rivers of Blood 4 Six Directions of Boxing
rap about Asian culture. On the fittingly titled Rivers of Blood, they puncture the soundscape, unleashing a torrent of rapid-fire verses as the entire Clan lets loose with unsurpassed gusto. They emerge again on Six Directions of Boxing, a lyrically impressive piece where RZA’s unsurpassed production forms a tight backbone. Both of these two tracks are polished enough that they could have easily been pulled from the band’s 36 Chambers. RZA is joined unexpectedly by The Black Keys on The Baddest Man Alive, and it somehow works. RZA’s production excels again, and the Keys bring blues rock swag-
4 Get Your Way 4 The Baddest Man Alive
ger that covers the whole thing with lovable grime. It is a rare rap-rock marriage that works. Don’t skip the individual Wu members’ solo outings, and especially don’t doubt the honey-dipped soul outings Get Your Way and I Forgot to Be Your Lover. In fact, the biggest blunders here are Kanye West’s and Wiz Khalifa’s tracks. West’s track is simply out of place, while Khalifa meanders around and fumbles on the closing track. So do the inner workings of this kungfu extravaganza coagulate into a cohesive album experience? Maybe not, but like the overblown action films it emulates, it is an endearing and loveable experience.
Though Fists is more of a gentle bruiser than a bonafide knockout, you have to respect the fierce clan of A-list talent brought on for RZA’s epic.
R.E.D. Ne-yo
Music from Another Dimension Aerosmith
Lotus Christina Aguilera
take Me Home One Direction
Ne-Yo has said this album is an effort “to just get back to the basics.” You get some of that from the first two songs on R.E.D., both of which Ne-Yo co-wrote with Shea Taylor, who also produced. Cracks in Mr. Perfect and Lazy Love share an up-close intimacy with tunes Taylor has made with Beyonce and Frank Ocean, and the album’s third cut, Let Me Love You (Until You Love Yourself), seems designed to remind us of simpler times by recycling a portion of its title from the 2004 Mario hit that was one of Ne-Yo’s first big songwriting successes. After that, though, R.E.D. doesn’t really stick to the idea of less is more. The sound narrows again in Stress Reliever, another lovely Taylor production built atop a minimal deep-space drum beat. But it only cleanses your palate for more flavors to come. — Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times
Rather than offering previously unimaginable tones and visions, Music From Another Dimension delivers riffs, cliches, solos, yowls and a virtual banquet of the same onedimensional tropes Aerosmith has been offering for years. Mixed in, however, are a few gems that might be considered worthy additions to the band’s catalog were they offered without such grand promises. It’s not that Aerosmith’s first studio album of all-new material in 11 years doesn’t rock. It’s loud, brash and proves that vocalist Steven Tyler can still yelp (and occasionally sing). But there are only so many original combinations of blues riffs and sexual boasts one can deliver in a single lifetime. Whatever dimension Aerosmith has claimed to visit, it certainly wasn’t a new one. — Randall Roberts, Los Angeles Times
Christina Aguilera is easily one of contemporary music’s best voices. She’s got pipes that music lovers need to hear at a time when Top 40 radio features studio-enhanced vocals and award shows are full of lip syncing. That’s why her fifth album, Lotus, is somewhat disappointing — not because it isn’t good, but because it isn’t great. Sure, it’s an improvement from 2010’s Bionic, thankfully, but not as satisfying as her first three releases. Where the singer falls short is on what are supposed to be the “fun” songs, like Red Hot Kinda Love, Around the World and Make the World Move. The first single, the Max Martinproduced Your Body, is also a miss. It’s almost like Aguilera isn’t getting the best material from the songwriters and producers on Lotus. Her excellent voice deserves excellent songs. — Mesfin Fekadu, The Associated Press
With this epically energetic follow-up, flash-in-the-pan boy band One Direction threatens to take over the kitchen. The CD is loaded with revved-up pop anthems like Live While We’re Young, C’mon C’mon and Kiss You, all with rousing, chanted choruses. The lyrics are more boldly hedonistic this time around: “Let’s go crazy, crazy, crazy till we see the sun / I know we only met but let’s pretend it’s love.” The material is expertly tailored for their voices — all pleasant, but none exceptional, which is why they work so well in a homogenized group setting. One Direction is actually best suited to sugary ballads such as They Don’t Know About Us, the standout track on the adorable quintet’s stronger and more consistent sophomore effort. — David Hiltbrand, The Philadelphia Inquirer
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word the
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ometimes it’s hard to find just the right thing for everybody on your list, isn’t it? There’s always somebody who’s impossible to buy for, and that’s when you should head to the bookstore.
CHRISTMAS
WISH LIST TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER Pulse Writer
MYSTERY Give Someone Bad and Something Blue by Miranda Parker: The main character in this novel is a gritty single mom / bail recovery agent / PI sleuth, which pretty much tells you this is a good gift. Another book to try is The Taken by Vicki Pettersson. That’s a mystery set between mortal and immortal worlds, where whodunit might be more like whatdunit.
SPORTS If there’s a baseball fan on your list, then you definitely need to wrap up If You Were Only White: The Life of Leroy “Satchel” Paige by Donald Spivey. This bio on one of sport’s greatest athletes starts at his birth in 1906 and moves through his talents on and off the field. The duck hunter on your list will quack over The Wild Duck Chase by Martin J. Smith. It’s a book about the Federal Duck Stamp Contest, the hunters who love / hate it and the competitors who vie to get their artwork on a stamp. AND
HUMOR
.COM
Is there someone on your list who needs a good laugh? Then you’ll want to find I Ate All Your Cookies (and Other Things You Wish You Could Tell Your Kids) by Quinn Conroy. This is a hilarious book for moms and dads who need a few laughs. Photography lovers and jokers alike will love Oddee Presents Photobombed! by Beverly L. Jenkins. The strangers in the background of a photograph: do they ruin or enhance it?
COOKING & HOME
Download the Iowa Wine & Beer app for your iPhone or Android. iowawineandbeerapp.com
The epicurean on your list will love unwrapping Consider the Fork by Bee Wilson. This fascinating book takes a look at how we cook, what we eat and how we cook and eat it. For the person on your list who always has a well-stocked bar, you can’t go wrong with The Book of Gin by Richard Barnett. This is a spirited history of the beverage, where it came from, why it’s synonymous with bathtubs and what you can make with it.
MEMOIRS & BIOGRAPHIES There are jobs, and then there are jobs. In the Land of Long Fingernails: A Gravedigger’s Memoir by Charles Wilkins gives readers the dirt (ahem) on what life’s like for someone who deals with death. The new homeowner on your list will love Sugarhouse by Matthew Batt. It’s the story of a well-meaning family that purchases what was supposed to be their dream home.
TOO COOL TO MISS
8PM-10PM
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JORDAN BERGREN DAVE MALAM OPEN MIC NIGHT BLUE TONE JAZZ JOHN FOR MAYER CHRYS MITCHELL
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LIVE JAZZ BY “HANDS OF TIME” IS EVERY THURSDAY FROM 8-9:30PM
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Does your little giftee have monsters beneath the bed? Then you need to wrap up Emily Brown and The Thing by Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton.
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If your little giftee loves dangerous animals (think: sharks and dinos), then A Strange Place to Call Home by Marilyn Singer and Ed Young is perfect. This book is filled with rhymes about the animals that live in deadly, dangerous places.
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Another unusual book is Talking Pictures by Ransom Riggs. Riggs says that he’s a collector of ephemera, specifically, old pictures of total strangers — but they have to have something written on the back.
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There’s not a science geek in the world who wouldn’t want to unwrap Skulls: An Exploration of Alan Dudley’s Curious Collection by Simon Winchester. This is a book filled with photos of a private collection of noggins from every kind of critter.
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YOUNG ADULT BOOKS If your giftee loves a bit of drama, then Margaret and the Moth Tree by Brit Trogen and Kari Trogen is a book to give. It’s the story of a plain orphan who lives in an orphanage that’s being terrorized by a beautiful Matron. Comic book fans will devour The Rainbow Orchid, Volume 1 in The Adventures of Julius Chancer series by Garen Ewing. This graphic novel, meant for readers ages 8 and up, mixes adventure, legend, history and fun.
CUP OF JOE 1 0 2 M A I N S T . C E D A R F A L L S | 3 19 . 2 7 7.15 9 6 WO-030212008
PULSE 17
THE HOBBIT:
AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY december 14 STARRING: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Andy Serkis PLOT: Holy Hobbit! It’s gonna be another big one for Peter Jackson, who’s back in his magical director’s chair with this anticipated prequel. Every nerd worth his salt will turn out to see Bilbo Baggins embark on an epic adventure to the Lonely Mountain with a vigorous group of dwarves to reclaim a treasure stolen by the dragon Smaug.
december 7
DEADFALL
december 21
december 21
JACK REACHER
THE IMPOSSIBLE
Starring: Eric Bana, Olivia Wilde, Charlie Hunnam, Sissy Spacek
Starring: Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins, Alexander Rhodes
Starring: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland, Oaklee Pendergast
Plot: Two siblings decide to fend for themselves in the wake of a botched casino heist and experience an unlikely reunion during another family’s Thanksgiving celebration. A hat trick of goodness here: suspenseful thriller, House beauty Olivia Wilde and Sons of Anarchy eye candy Charlie Hunnam.
Plot: Tom Cruise is a bit of a kook in his private life (Spaceships, Tom? Really?), but the man can act. Here he plays homicide investigator Jack Reacher, who digs into a case involving a trained military sniper who shot five random victims. Not a box office take, but Cruise will always be a solid draw, spaceships notwithstanding.
Plot: End-of-the-world scenarios score big at the box office, and this account of a family caught with tens of thousands of strangers in the mayhem of one of the worst natural catastrophes of our time will quench our thirst for disaster.
Film District, Image, Warner Bros., Sony, Paramount, Summit, Weinstein, Universal photos
meta hemenway-forbes | Pulse editor
december 7
PLAYING FOR KEEPS Starring: Gerald Butler, Jessica Biel, Dennis Quaid, Judy Greer Plot: George is a former sports star who’s fallen on hard times and starts coaching his son’s soccer team in an attempt to get his life together. Grab a box of tissues. This schmaltz is gonna hurt. Gerard Butler’s career, that is.
december 21
december 28
december 28
ON THE ROAD
DJANGO UNCHAINED
LES MISÉRABLES
Starring: Garrett Hedlund, Sam Riles, Kristen Stewart, Viggo Mortensen
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Don Johnson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter
Plot: We’re hoping Kristin Stewart will exercise a different acting muscle in this take on Jack Kerouac’s novel. Unfortunately, the plot sounds perfect for her standard pout and jittery angst. Stewart plays Marylou in this tale of the Beat Generation’s personal quest for meaning and belonging and blah, blah, blah.
Plot: With Quentin Tarantino in the director’s seat, expect cuss words your mama’s never heard of. Slave-turnedbounty hunter sets out to rescue his wife from a Mississippi plantation owner. Sounds suspiciously similar to The Marine, the 2006 cheeseball action flick starring John “they have a hostage, it’s my wife” Cena. Yawn.
Plot: Songs of poverty and oppression will delight moviegoers in this adaptation of the successful stage musical based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel. Set in 19th-century France, a paroled prisoner seeks redemption. Featuring an all-star lineup, we’re predicting a box office smash.
GAMER GIFT GUIDE You think it’d be easy shopping for the gamer in your life, but we can be a finicky bunch. Here are suggestions to make sure your gift inspires joy instead of a request for a receipt.
ALAN SIMMER | Pulse Writer
They like Mario best when he is:
A sticker
Shiny
A flying squirrel
A costume
Paper Mario: Sticker Star
New Super Mario Bros. 2
New Super Mario Bros. U
Nintendo Land
Preferred method of killing:
With near-future guns
With space guns
On an island
Quietly with guns
Quietly with knives
Loudly with swords
Call of Duty: Black Ops II
Halo 4
Far Cry 3
Hitman: Absolution
Assassin’s Creed III
Ninja Gaden 3: Razor’s Edge
Orcs
American zombies
Global zombies
British zombies
Giants
Under the Sea
LEGO Lord of the Rings
The Walking Dead
Resident Evil 6
ZombiU
Skylanders Giants
Just Dance Disney Party
Fashion
General merriment
Drawing
Puzzles
Life-or-death mystery
Scribblenauts Unlimited
Art Academy
Professor Layton / Miracle Mask
Virtue’s Last Reward
Favorite type of monster:
Favorite song:
Second-favorite interest:
Style Savvy: Trendsetters
The Hip Hop Dance Experience
Favorite TV show or movie:
Adventure Time
Skyfall
Wreck-It Ralph
One, Two Step
Rise of the Guardians
Steamboat Willie Call Me Maybe
Adventure Time: Hey Ice King…
Football
20 PULSE Madden NFL ’13
007 Legends
Basketball
NBA 2K13
Wreck-It Ralph
Rise of the Guardians
Epic Mickey 2
Soccer
Racing
“Wrestling”
I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’
FIFA Soccer ’13
NASCAR the Game: Inside Line
WWE ’13
SiNG Party
Favorite sport:
Just Dance 4
Mario makes the leap to high-def
H
Alan Simmer | Pulse Writer
ardware doesn’t sell without a killer app. Nintendo’s hoping that New Super Mario Bros. U will be the game that launched a few hundred thousand Wii U consoles. I wouldn’t say it’s killer, but the new foray into simultaneous Mario multiplayer is a compelling launch title. The integrated world map doesn’t quite live up to the one it emulates from Super Mario World, but it’s still a welcome change from the isolated worlds in the New Super Mario Bros. family. The worlds are pretty typical, but the level design, as always, is good. The Flying Squirrel suit is an interesting twist on the Propeller suit, but the best new in-game feature is the return of Baby Yoshis. Not only are they adorable, adding a backing vocal to any level’s soundtrack, but their new powers — bubbles, inflation and illumination — are quite useful. Certain types are allowed to travel between levels as well, mitigating the fact that full-size Yoshis are only available in certain levels. An intriguing new feature is called Boost Mode. While one to four players are bouncing around on the TV, another person can use the Game-
Hands-on with the Wii U The Wii U is so quintessentially Nintendo: Every detail has been crafted to bring a smile to your face. For: Wii U | Price: $59.99 | Rated: Everyone
Pad touchscreen to stun enemies and place platforms. They can be used to reach high places, cross perilous gaps or halt characters midair and send them plummeting straight down the nearest bottomless pit. Au revoir, Luigi! Challenges are a welcome addition too. Some, like the 1-up or Boost Mode challenges, are like video game meth. You will try again and again and again (and again) until you manage to pass them --- and good luck getting a gold medal. If you do, keep it to yourself, because I don’t want to hear it. NSMBU is a more polished version of New Super Mario Bros. Wii. It’s not groundbreaking, and it doesn’t really show off the best features of the Wii U. But it’s going to sell a lot of systems because the five-player chaos is still one of the best experiences possible sitting on the couch with your friends.
That stretches from the WaraWara Plaza homescreen, where the ever-present Mii avatars mingle and display their thoughts in word bubbles, to the video chat, where you can call up your friends and then draw on their faces. Why drop the money on a new console? The two big hooks are the high-def graphics, which look great, and the screen on the new GamePad controller. The second screen is crazy. It’s sizable, it’s crisp and it lets you play in a totally different way. I worked on New Super Mario Bros. U while a friend watched TV; we played together while I sat in a chair and faced away from the TV. And while the Wii U console is surprisingly weighty, the GamePad is unbelievably light. It feels like it’s filled with foam, and it fits hands both large and small quite comfortably. So is it worth it? The depth and breadth of games in the pipeline should be a big factor in the Wii U’s favor. But it’s the little things, like being able to use the GamePad as a TV remote, that end up being stupidly fun. If you can get your hands on one, I’d seize the chance.
Black Ops II is a blockbuster experience James Frazier | Pulse writer
C
all of Duty: Black Ops II just might be where video games begin to truly compete with film for the affections of consumers. It’s not the greatest game ever made, nor is it revolutionary in and of itself, but it’s hard to deny its certain mixture of reliably superlative gameplay, unprecedented scope and recordshattering sales. Black Ops II continues the story of the previous installment’s CIA operative hero, Alex Mason, and introduces his son, David, a Navy SEAL. Their adventures, set in the 1980s and a bleak 2025, span a variety of hotspots from Soviet-occupied Afghanistan to a futuristic Los Angeles under siege by killer drones. Lt. Colonel Oliver North appears as himself, and, in an unintentionally humorous development, former CIA head David Petraeus, voiced by an actor, appears as America’s secretary of defense in 2025. Oops. Developer Treyarch doesn’t tinker with the series’ beloved and straightforward shooter mechanics. Players still traverse maps armed with two guns and some gadgets, seeking to slay enemies and occasionally capture territory or defuse a bomb. The game’s futuristic setting
allows the developers considerable use of their imaginations, resulting in some rather neat sci-fi equipment, such as gun sights that identify and track enemies and armored quadruped robots packing massive firepower. The single-player story, which deftly combines some compelling character moments with adrenaline-pumping violence, introduces various moments where the player’s performance or specific choices can significantly alter events and the overall outcome. At times, these virtual crossroads are clearly illustrated; at others, they’re a bit vague, but they succeed at adding a level of personal involvement rarely seen in shooters of any kind. After the disappointing online experience of Modern Warfare 3, Black Ops II provides a prayer answered, offering gamers the best Call of Duty multiplayer to date. Every map proves balanced and complex, accommodating an array of play styles that seem friendly to newbies and hardcore gamers alike. Computer-controlled bots are remarkably effective at emulating the online experience. The only area in which Black Ops II fails
For: Xbox 360 | Price: $59.99 | Rated: Mature PROS: The genre’s best multiplayer; stunning visuals; emotionally charged campaign. CONS: More multiplayer maps desired; waiting 3 years for next Halo is too long.
New Halo nails it JAred Molstead | Pulse writer
H
alo 4 is a rousing success on every level, and it begins with a clear respect for the source material. New developer 343 Industries fundamentally understands the core of the Halo experience: a story-driven campaign sandbox ripe for exploration, exhaustive cooperative play options and a genre-defying competitive multiplayer experience. Halo 4 sees the immortalized and softspoken guardian Master Chief awoken by his female AI companion Cortana after four years of hypersleep. Their ship has crash-landed on an arcane and primordial Forerunner world called Requiem, where a splinter faction of Covenant known as the Prometheans will present Chief’s greatest threat. Yet underneath the sci-fi infused surface, Halo 4 is a tragically poetic love story between Cortana and her reserved guardian in the green armor. Cortana is in the eighth year of a seven-year AI cycle and fears becoming “rampant” as fragments of her sanity slowly fray. Needless to say, the stakes have never been this high or this personal for Chief and players alike. The juggernaut multiplayer suite will no doubt inspire late nights and foul-mouthed insults. Halo 4 takes all the right cues from the Call of Duty franchise and brings none of the baggage. The sweet promise of a true ranking system only ups the ante tenfold.
For: PC, PS3, Wii U, X360 | Price: $59.99 Rated: Mature PROS: Imaginative and fun equipment; branching storylines. CONS: Storyline paths can be unclear. Zombies mode an afterthought. to improve is the Zombies mode, where nothing feels new. With Black Ops II, Treyarch has produced a game of such quality that the success of the franchise is practically guaranteed for at least a few more installments. This is a must-play blockbuster game.
None of the maps brim with a Lockout or Ascension-esque immortality, but they are all well balanced and the weapon variety here is staggering. Microsoft clearly spared no expenses for Halo 4. The game’s visuals crackle with eye-blistering attention to detail and the guns now erupt with a thunderous and rewarding audible pop. I have long loved this series, and I loved this game. Coming from a die-hard fan, is there any better compliment than that?
PULSE 21 Nintendo, Microsoft, Activision, Disney, D3 Publisher, 5th Cell, Warner Bros., Capcom, Shutterstock images
Toys in the Attic When a handful of forgotten toys keep their tradition of coming to life on Christmas Eve, their comfortable existence in the attic is disrupted by a growing mystery: Why have things changed so much? What’s hidden in the dark corners? And what’s really going on in the outside world? As they piece together the puzzle, they are confronted by a new kid on the block: a gadget so technologically advanced that it threatens the very meaning of their existence.
Seasonal show Moving holiday music from more than 600 musicians will capture the wonder of the season as Luther College presents the 2012 production of Christmas at Luther: Tidings of Comfort and Joy. The concert presents traditional holiday carols and sacred Christmas choral anthems. Christmas at Luther’s powerful and moving music is complemented by the magnificence of the Center for Faith and Life in its Christmas decoration and the choreography of the ensembles. The concert will be broadcast on most PBS stations nationwide.
Christmas at Luther broadcast Sunday, Dec. 23@7 p.m. Local PBS stations
22 PULSE
Now they must overcome their individual weaknesses to rediscover the adventure in life, solve the mystery and, incidentally, save the world in time for Christmas.
Toys in the Attic: A Christmas Adventure Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 @ 7 PM Dec. 9, 16 @ 2 PM Lampost Theatre, Cedar Falls $16 | lampost.com
Brucemore Holiday Tours Celebrate holidays past by participating in Brucemore’s annual tradition, holiday mansion tours. Visitors will enjoy the seasonal splendor of 13 glowing trees, a dining room set for Christmas dinner, stunning mantel arrangements, the lush garland adornment of the grand staircase and other seasonal cheer throughout the mansion. Daytime tours will begin on the hour, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and every half hour noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. Sunday tours will feature live
music from the original 1927 Skinner Pipe Organ. Evening tours will be offered every 15 minutes from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11, 13, 18 and 20. All evening tours will feature live music from the Skinner Pipe Organ.
Mansion tours Nov. 23 - Dec. 30 Brucemore, Cedar Rapids $7 - $10 | www.brucemore.org
30 NOV 2012 – 22 JAN 2013
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT ARCHITECTURE OF THE INTERIOR Opening Reception: Sunday, December 2 from 2:00–3:30pm
Frank Lloyd Wright: Architecture of the Interior is organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC, in cooperation with The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Scottsdale, AZ
hearstartscenter.com
304 W. Seerley Boulevard, Cedar Falls PULSE 23
Upcoming shows at
23 NOV
8PM: THE MITTENS AND DYLAN SIRES & THE NEIGHBORS
24 NOV
9PM: JOURNEY/REO/STYX BY: ARCH ALLIES
25 NOV
8PM: OPEN JAM (NO COVER)
26 NOV
9PM: GRATEFUL DEAD NIGHT (NO COVER)
27 NOV
9PM: FREE KEG & KARAOKE (NO COVER)
29 NOV
9PM: UNI JAZZ BANDS I, II, III
30 NOV
6PM: CHECKER & THE BLUETONES 10PM: PORK TORNADOES
1 DEC
7PM: RAMBLERS; 10PM: ADRIATIC AND HIDDEN HOSPITALS
2 DEC
7PM: SEXTET (FEATURING UNI JAZZ PROFESSORS); 9PM: OPEN JAM
6 DEC
9PM: IRISH/CELTIC DUO WILD COLONIAL BHOYS
7 DEC
6PM: BOB DORR & THE BLUE BAND 9:30PM: DAREDEVIL CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT, BROOKS STRAUSE, HAR-DI-HAR
8 DEC
8PM: FOO FIGHTERS MUSIC BY: FOOS GOLD
9 DEC
8PM: OPEN JAM; 10:30PM: DUMPTRUCK BUTTERLIPS (FREE SHOW)
14 DEC
8PM: VIC FERRARI BAND
15 DEC
9PM: PORK TORNADOES
22 DEC
7PM: BEAKER BROTHERS
27 DEC
KUNI HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA
Carrie
december 14
Blown Away * = ADVANCE TIX AVAILABLE
Country superstar and Nashville’s resident hottie Carrie Underwood will make a stop in Des Moines in December as part of her Blown Away Tour. She released her newest album, Blown Away, earlier this year. Underwood is donating $1 from each ticket sold on the North American leg of the tour to support Red Cross disaster relief. She’s sold more than 14 million albums, boasts 14 No. 1 singles and is a five-time Grammy winner. Carrie Underwood Friday, Dec. 14 Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines iowaeventscenter.com
24 PULSE
COURTESY PHOTO
The HuB
december 2
Irish Christmas in America Produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada of award-winning Irish group Téada, the hugely popular Irish Christmas in America show features top Irish musicians, singers and dancers in an engaging performance rich in history, humor and boundless energy. This family-friendly performance features Irish ballads and holiday carols, lively fiddle tunes and thrilling Irish dancing. Narration brings to life ancient customs and stories, while evocative photographic images provide a backdrop of rich historical context. Irish Christmas in America Sunday, Dec. 2 @ 7 PM CSPS Hall, Cedar Rapids $30 advance; $35 door legionarts.org
december 7
COURTESY PHOTO
Sunday, Dec. 9 Wartburg Community Symphony presents COURTESY PHOTOS
e
Wartburg War artburg tburg College College
classic urban sounds Wise, tender, brilliant and biting, Ellis Paul marks in melodies and poems where we’ve been and where we might go if we so choose. He was one of the top songwriters to emerge from the fertile Boston folk scene of the 1990s and helped create a movement that revitalized the national acoustic circuit with an urban, literate, folk-rock style. Paul is regarded as such a classic urban songwriter that it’s hard to fathom what a small-town boy he was. He grew up in northern Maine in a potato farming community so remote that his exposure to music came almost entirely from the only Top 40 station that would tune on his radio. Ellis Paul Friday, Dec. 7 @ 8 PM CSPS Hall, Cedar Rapids $17 advance; $21 door legionarts.org
A Christmas Carol Neumann Auditorium, 3 p.m. Tickets $15 at the door In Charles Dickens’ classic, Ebenezer Scrooge’s heart is transformed from a cold lump of coal to a warm, colorful diamond. Join the Wartburg Players and the Wartburg Community Symphony as they portray Scrooge’s transformation after visits from three spirits. Opera star Simon Estes will be featured in the performance. For more information, call 319-352-8200 or online at www.wartburg.edu/symphony
Celebrating 60 years 2012-13 Wartburg Community Symphony PULSE 25
COURTESY PHOTO
COURTESY PHOTO
december 14
Do it a cappella No instruments. No tracks. Just five guys and a microphone. Rockapella made a name for themselves way back when on Where in the World is Carmen San Diego? The group’s artful meld of rock and a cappella is all grown up and they perform more than 80 concerts a year across the globe. The versatile group has been all over the entertainment map, appearing in the PBS Do It A Cappella special hosted by Spike Lee and on The Tonight Show, as well as creating commercial jingles. Rockapella Friday, Dec. 14 @ 6 and 8:30 PM Diamond Jo Casino, Dubuque $27-$37 | 21 and older show diamondjo.com
26 PULSE
MUG NIGHT SPECIALS WEDNESDAYS $3 MICRO & CRAFT BREW / MUG REFILLS
COURTESY PHOTO
*HIGH ABV=$5 REFILLS
THURSDAYS $2 MACRO (DOMESTIC) / MUG REFILLS $2 BEEF TACOS $2.50 CHICKEN OR FISH TACOS
SPECIALTY PIZZAS THE ORIGINAL - $10, $16 OWN THE NEWLY RELEASED ALBUM BY THE DAREDEVIL CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT THE NATURE OF THINGS
DARING
SHOW december 7
The Daredevil Christopher Wright will skid into The Hub in December courtesy of Slimbeast Productions, a new Cedar Falls-based record label. Born in 2004 out of the thriving indie music scene in Eau Claire, Wis., The Daredevil Christopher Wright unites brothers Jon and Jason Sunde with the percussion and vocals of friend Jesse Edgington. This year the group released its sophomore album, The Nature of Things. Joining the Daredevil are Brooks Strause and the Gory Details as well as Har-di-Har. The Daredevil Christopher Wright with Brooks Strause and the Gory Details, Har-di-Har Friday, Dec. 7 @ 9 PM The Hub, Cedar Falls $8 advance; $10 door midwestix.com
THE MULLIGAN - $11, $17
Olive oil, basil pesto, Italian sausage, pepperoni and Mozzarella.
Tomato sauce, pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onion, green pepper and Mozzarella.
BBQ CHICKEN - $10, $16
PESTO PROSCIUTTO - $11, $17
BBQ sauce, Mozzarella, BBQ chicken, red onion and fresh cilantro.
CHEESY MEATBALL - $10, $16
Olive oil, Basil Pesto, Roma Tomato, Prosciutto, and melted FRESH Mozzarella. Finished with fresh Basil and Oregano Leaves.
Red Sauce, our Homemade Meatballs, Mozzarella, Smoked Provolone, Parmesan & Romano. Finished with fresh Basil and Oregano leaves.
CHICKEN ALFREDO - $11, $17
CHICKEN ARTICHOKE TOMATO - $10, $16
BUFFALO CHICKEN - $10, $16
Olive oil, Garlic Oregano chicken breast, Roma tomato, artichoke heart, FRESH Mozzarella and grated Romano.
THREE CHEESE, TOMATO & BASIL - $9, $15
Garlic Oregano Chicken, alfredo sauce, roasted red pepper, Mozzarella, Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Grilled chicken, buffalo sauce, mozzarella, onion and fresh Blue cheese crumbles.
PIZZA MARGHERITA - $9, $15
Tomato sauce, Mozzarella, smoked Provolone, Parmesan, sliced Roma tomato, and fresh basil.
The classic Italian pizza. Our original white crust brushed with olive oil and topped with Roma tomatoes, Mozzarella, fresh basil and Parmesan.
SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN - $10, $16 Caramelized onions, grilled lime
ROASTED GARLIC POTATO AND PROSCIUTTO - $10, $16
chicken, Mozzarella, fresh tomato salsa and cilantro. Served with lime, sour cream and guacamole.
TOSTADA - $10, $16
Seasoned ground beef, taco sauce, Cheddar and Monterey Jack topped with chilled chopped lettuce, fresh tomato salsa, green onions and crushed white corn tortilla chips. • Also available with grilled cilantro-lime chicken.
THAI CHICKEN -$10, $16
Thai peanut sauce, marinated chicken, Mozzarella, green onion, chopped roasted peanuts, shredded carrot, and fresh cilantro.
CARNE ASADA - $11, $17
Grilled Cilantro-Lime steak, onion, cilantro pesto, pes to Monterey Jack, and Mozzarella to, cheese che ch cheese. ese Taken from the oven and topped withh fre wit ffresh re tomato salsa, sour cream,
guacam gua guacamole cam and a lime wedge.
Roasted Garlic & Oregano Butter brushed crust, topped with a layer of twice baked potatoes, thinly sliced prosciutto, green onion and chopped Roma tomato.
KONA COAST - $10, $16
Prosciutto, pineapple and Mozzarella.
THE 18TH STREET PIE - $11, $17
This Classic starts with our Ricotta-RomanoHerb cheese blend. It is then layered with Italian Sausage, Pepperoni, Prosciutto, and Mozzarella and finished with our traditional tomato sauce. Garnished with freshly chopped basil and oregano.
WHAT THE FAROK? - $10, $16
At first look this pizza may look like a bad decision. Give it a shot and and you will see it is well worth every one of the sweet $16 it costs for the Regular. Spicy garlic sauce, Mozzarella, Italian sausage, green pepper and red onion.
205 East 18th St. • Cedar Falls • 319-277-3671 • 11am–2am • 7 days a week www.mulligansbrickoven.com PULSE 27
DOPE
FRI, NOV 30 SAT, DEC 1 FRI, DEC 7 SAT, DEC 8 FRI, DEC 14 SAT, DEC 15 FRI. DEC 21 SAT, DEC 22 FRI, DEC 28 SAT, DEC 29 MON, DEC 31
DOPE 8PM DESELECT, NORTH OF GRAND 9PM PARTY PARTY KARAOKE BAND 9PM JANUS, LOOTENANTS 9PM SNOZZBERRIES 8PM THE MITTENS, FEET TO FALL OVER 9PM ILLEGAL SMILE 9PM 3RD ST BAND 8PM URBAN LEGEND 8PM TWINS, DYLAN SIRES 9PM THEGOODYEARPIMPS,MYGODTHEHEAT,WHISKEY ANDWOE,FAILUREOFPROGRESS,SUITELITTLESISTER
3555 University Ave Waterloo 287-5747
WWW.THEREVERB.NET
TWENTY-FOUR
SEVEN
365 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ART GALLERIES, EVENTS MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITS
MOVIES NEWS & REVIEWS, RELEASES & TRAILERS LIVE MUSIC SOUNDBITES, NEWS INTERVIEWS, CD RELEASES AND LIVE MUSIC VENUES
Warning: ‘Killer Karaoke’ may cause stupidity Meta Hemenway-Forbes | Pulse Editor
M
elissa, a busty preacher’s daughter in a strapless cocktail dress, has sung in church for years. She’s about to get a taste of hell. “No matter what happens, do not stop singing,” says Steve-O. Yep. Steve-O. Jackass Steve-O. He’s the host of TruTV’s new series, Killer Karaoke, in which contestants sing their way through pain, fear and disgust. It’s American Idol meets Fear Factor. And so Melissa takes a seat on the “swamp swing” and begins her rendition of A-Ha’s Take On Me. Aaaaand then she’s dunked into a tub filled with ice-cold water and snakes. Lots of snakes. And a couple of baby alligators. As her daddy might say, that’s the devil workin’ right there. Mercifully, for Melissa and us, the song ends and she’s pulled from the ice bath, her top half providing clear evidence that the water was, indeed, cold. Five more contestants, a shock collar, more snakes, a run through cacti, even more snakes, and a pie in the face later, the winner walks away with 10 grand and bragging rights for surviving the dumbest show ever. Killer Karaoke 8 PM Fridays TruTV
28 PULSE
7THINGS
TO DO IN IOWA THIS MONTH
1
The Nutcracker Friday, Nov. 30, to Sunday, Dec. 2 The Englert Theatre, Iowa City $24 adult, $18 student, $14 youth englert.org
3
2
Cynthia Nelms-Byrne: Inspired by Poets Through March 17 Reception: Friday, Dec. 7 @ 5:30 PM Dubuque Museum of Art dbqart.com
5 6 7
Wynonna Judd Saturday, Dec. 8 @ 9 PM Sunday, Dec. 9 @ 4 PM Riverside Casino $38, $44, $55 | riversidecasinoandresort.com
DUBUQUE
CEDAR RAPIDS
CEDAR FALLS
Five Flags Theater Sat. Dec. 8 -2:30 pm & 7:30 pm
Paramount Theatre Sun. Dec. 9 – 2:30 pm
Gallagher-Bluedorn Sun. Dec. 16 – 2:30 pm
$29-$34. Call (800) 745-3000, $29-$34. Call (800) 369-8863, $29-$34. Call (877) 549-7469, vist www.TicketMaster.com, visit www.ParamountTheatreCR.com, visit www.unitix.uni.edu, or in person at the or in person at the Paramount or in person at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Box Office. Five Flags Box Office. Theatre Box Office. Benefit Concerts for Courageous of Iowa
www.PianoFavorites.com
4
The Blenders Holiday Soul Tour Tuesday, Dec. 18 @ 7:30 PM Civic Center, Des Moines $39 and up | civiccenter.org
Jingle and Mingle on Main Thursday, Dec. 6 @ 5 PM Main Street, Cedar Falls communitymainstreet.org
Winter Wonder’loo Saturday, Dec. 8 @ 3 PM Black’s Building, Waterloo mainstreetwaterloo.org
Christmas on Main Thursday, Dec. 13 @ 6 PM Main Street, Waverly waverlyia.com SHUTTERSTOCK, TruTV, COURTESY IMAGES
PULSE 29
in good guide to savory dining
CEDAR FALLS
WATERLOO
Banditos Seriously Badass Burritos | Mexican 2208 College St. Cedar Falls 319-266-6637 Hours: Open daily at 11am www.barmuda.com Burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads and more made to order using fresh ingredients. Home of the Big Juan Burrito weighing over a pound! Beck’s Sports Grill | American, Sports bar 2210 College Hill Cedar Falls 319-277-2646 Hours: Open daily at 11am www.barmuda.com
Ferrari’s Ristorante | American and Italian 1521 Technology Pkwy. Cedar Falls 319-277-1385 Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 4pm-10pm www.barmuda.com Ferrari's features only the finest steaks, freshest seafood and authentic Italian fare. Offering light, quick lunch options along with an extensive dinner menu and wine list. Soho Sushi Bar & Deli The Stuffed Olive | Deli, Sushi, Tapas, Martinis 119 Main St. Cedar Falls 319-266-9995 Hours: Monday-Saturday at 11am www.barmuda.com
Featuring Beck's homemade microbrews, voted best burger, locally owned restaurant, sports bar and place to play pool in the Cedar Valley.
Fresh made sushi and deli sandwiches, salads and paninis combined with globally inspired tapas dishes and over 100 different martinis. Homemade cookies made from scratch daily!
Bourbon Street | American, Cajun and Creole 119 Main St. Cedar Falls 319-266-5285 Hours: Monday-Saturday 4pm-10pm www.barmuda.com Bourbon Street is a step off of Main Street into the French Quarter featuring Certified Black Angus steaks and delicious seafood complimented by an extensive wine list.
GET LISTED ON IN GOOD TASTE
Beck’s Sports Brewery | American, Microbrewery 7777 Isle of Capri Blvd. Waterloo 319-833-2241 Hours: Open daily at 11am www.barmuda.com One of the areas only microbreweries! Voted best burger, locally owned restaurant and sports bar in the Cedar Valley. Featuring steaks, pastas, seafood, sandwiches and our famous chicken tortilla soup. Guerilla Brewing/Lava Lounge | Microbrewery and Bar 2401 Falls Ave. Waterloo 319-234-5686 Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am–9pm A double brown ale and an imperial American pale ale were the first two to debut, other varieties will follow depending on the season. None of the brews will be less than 7% alcohol. The Lone Wolf | Bar, Restaurant 7777 Isle of Capri Blvd. Waterloo 319-833-2241 Hours: Open daily 11am – 2am, Kitchen open all hours. www.waterloo.isleofcapricasinos.com Whether you feel like getting food to-go or plan to stay a while, The Lone Wolf is sure to please. We have mouth-watering food, thirstquenching drinks with an atmosphere unlike any other.
Otis and Henry’s® Bar and Grill | Bar and Grill 7777 Isle of Capri Blvd. Waterloo 319-833-2241 Hours: Sun – Thurs 5pm – 10pm Fri – Sat 5pm – 11pm www.waterloo.isleofcapricasinos.com Combines the comfort of a neighborhood bar and grill with the favorites of a steakhouse. Choose from the delicious pastas, sandwiches, salads, steaks, fish and more. Rudy’s Tacos | Mexican 2401 Falls Ave. Waterloo 319-234-5686 Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am–9pm www.rudystacos.com Rudy’s uses local ingredients through the Northern Iowa Food and Farm Partnership’s Buy Fresh/Buy Local program. Southtown Bar & Restaurant | American 2026 Bopp St. Waterloo 319-236-9112 Hours: 7am–10:30pm, bar open later www.southtownwaterloo.com Located next to Witham Ford behind Golf Headquarters. Stop in for the great broasted chicken or fresh made pork tenderloin.
GUIDE TO SAVORY DINING! Call 319.291.1497 to find out how.
PRICING GUIDE (per entrée)
|
$10
$20
$30 $40+
Hungry for more? Get your fill of arts and entertainment news throughout the month @ CVPulse.com 30 PULSE
FUN&GAMES
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CHUCK SHEPHERD q Former Arkansas state legislator Charlie Fuqua is running again after a 14-year absence from elective office. In the interim, reported the Arkansas Times in October, he wrote a book, “God’s Law: The Only Political Solution,” reminding Christians that they could put their super-rebellious children to death as long as proper procedure (set out in Deuteronomy 21:18-21) was followed. “Even though this (capital punishment) would rarely be used,” Fuqua wrote, “if it were the law of the land ... it would be a tremendous incentive for children to give proper respect to their parents.” q A teenager, apparently fed up with his parents’ commandeering of their home’s basement for an elaborate marijuana-growing operation, turned in the couple in August. The Doylestown Township, Pa., couple (a chiropractor mom and software engineer dad) had sophisticated hardware and 18 plants.
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PULSE 31
Friday, February 8 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 9 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 10 1:00 & 6:30 p.m.
GALLAGHER-BLUEDORN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER University of Northern Iowa
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