Fall/Winter 2015 Downtown Magazine by DowntownIC

Fall/winter 2015

Chefs at Work behind the scenes with 4 of our finest

Downtown Developments — what’s new in streetscapes and art : page 18

Coffee Culture — crafting a perfect cup’ : page 8

UI alumni-owned businesses,

holiday events and gift guide : page 21

Only in Iowa City — best loved traditions : page 10

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Downtown chefs: A Labor of love

New public art project

once a hawkeye, always a hawkeye

IC sips IC eats IC art IC shopping IC gifts IC santa IC something to do

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IC DOWNTOWN Magazine is produced by Press-Citizen Media in partnership with the Iowa City Downtown District. © 2015 Iowa City Press-Citizen GENERAL MANAGER & DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING: Dale Larson EDITOR: Amy Sundermann Contributing writers: Matt Butler, Nate Kaeding, Betsy Potter, Amy Sundermann, Joe Tiefenthaler Photographers: Justin Torner, Kacie Eckerman, Zakery Neumann, Towler Photography Design: Benson & Hepker Design SALES MANAGER: Adam Kahler Account Executives: Karmen Dorshorst, Danielle Law

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Cover photo: Four of Iowa City’s notable chefs share their passions and inspirations. From left: Christian Prochaska, Abbie Misfeldt, Sepehr Sadrzadeh, Brady McDonald. Photo by Zak Neumann

WE CREATE

HERE

Iowa City’s original Java House on Washington Street celebrates the art of brewing the perfect cup. PHOTO BY Zak Neumann

1614 Sycamore St. • Iowa City 319-337-3737

www.McDonaldOptical.com

16 S. Clinton St. • Iowa City 319-337-4995 fall/winter 2015

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musicistheword is the Iowa City Public Library’s nine-month musical

Lunch Monday - Friday 11-2. Open for dinner daily at 4pm. Happiest Hour 4-5pm daily featuring 1/2 price on select wine bottles.

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celebration to welcome the University of Iowa School of Music to downtown Iowa City. Join us for free weekly programs focused on all things musical from September 2015 through May 2016.

icpl.org/mitw

Getting Away is Better when Shared

Located in the heart of downtown on the Pedestrian Mall, Sheraton Iowa City Hotel offers warm and inviting guest rooms, free wireless Internet access in our Lobby at The Link@SheratonSM experience with Microsoft, plus fine cuisine at our restaurant Share Wine Lounge & Small Plate Bistro, with an emphasis on local ingredients. Enjoy additional amenities including: • 37 inch flat screen television • Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed • Sheraton Fitness Programmed by EXOS • Green Key Certified

210 S. Dubuque Street Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 337-4058

Book now at www.sheratoniowacity.com or by calling 866-716-8103 ©2014 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Sheraton and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. 6

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From Past to Present... PHOEBE MARTIN

is your Iowa City native with extensive real estate knowledge in Iowa City and surrounding areas.

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“I like coffee because it gives me the illusion that I might be awake.” Lewis Black

sips BY MATT BUTLER

Downtown Coffee Culture It’s

no secret that coffee culture is ingrained into daily life in Iowa City. Coffee helps students (and professors) weather Finals Week, brings families and friends together, and makes the morning commute a little less stressful. As a drink and a lifestyle, coffee is important to Iowa Citians. Downtown boasts 15 establishments that serve coffee and/or tea, and each one offers its own unique experience. We took a closer look at four places to get a downtown coffee fix. Check them out for a new caffeinated option, to play a vintage video game, or to find a great book to read while enjoying a morning cup o’ joe. n

High Ground Café

Prairie Lights Café

301 E. Market Street

15 S. Dubuque Street

RUNDOWN One word sums up High Ground Café: Fresh. The lemonade is fresh-squeezed, the smoothies are made from fresh fruit, and the coffee is ground fresh for every order. This attention to detail and a high priority on serving healthy and organic menu items has earned them a Blue Zones restaurant designation. The location has a shaded outdoor patio for warm summer days and an indoor fireplace for frosty winter nights.

RUNDOWN A well-hidden downtown treasure, the Prairie Lights Café is located on the second floor of Prairie Lights bookstore. Behind the bar, well-trained baristas pull espresso shots and provide a vast amount of knowledge on the intricacies of different coffee-based drinks. Pro tip: The café opens an hour before the store, so don’t be scared away before 10 a.m. if the bookstore windows look dark.

WHERE ARE THEIR BEANS FROM? Kickapoo coffee (Organic and Fair Trade) DRINK RECOMMENDATION A pour-over coffee. Take a second to smell the samples of different beans arranged from light to dark roasts. (319) 338-5382 highgroundcafe.com Everyday 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.

WHERE ARE THEIR BEANS FROM? Stumptown Coffee Roasters (Portland, Oregon) DRINK RECOMMENDATION Perhaps the best-named coffee drink in all of Iowa City, The Black Rider never disappoints. It consists of a dry cappuccino with decadent caramel, topped off with black sea salt flakes. It pairs well with a good book and a rainy day. (319) 337 - 2681 prairielights.com Mon-Sat 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sun 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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Java House

211 1/2 E. Washington Street RUNDOWN Founded in 1994 by Tara Cronbaugh, Java House coffee has become a “must have” for those passing through town and local residents looking to start their morning off right. Boasting eight locations, the downtown hub and most iconic café is next door to the Englert Theatre. Originally located in Prairie Lights, Java House moved into its current spot in October 1994. WHERE ARE THEIR BEANS FROM? Undisclosed, but roasted exclusively for Java House

DRINK RECOMMENDATION You can’t go wrong with any of the reliable, quick, and oh-so-delicious pour-over options. Roasts range from light (more caffeine, lighter taste) to dark (less caffeine, robust, and full). (319) 341-0012 thejavahouse.com Mon-Sat 6 a.m. – 12 a.m. Sun 7 a.m. – 12 a.m.

Forbidden Planet

111 S. Dubuque Street RUNDOWN Forbidden Planet opened its doors on the Ped Mall in November 2014 in the space formerly occupied by the Tobacco Bowl and became an instant hit. A big part of the attraction is the opportunity to drink a craft beer or fresh coffee while playing arcade games older than the average University of Iowa student. Forbidden Planet also serves up wonderful pizzas. Without a doubt, Forbidden Planet is the best place in town to become a pinball wizard and drink your favorite beverage. WHERE ARE THEIR BEANS FROM? Bluebird Diner’s coffee roasting operation creates a special blend for Forbidden Planet. DRINK RECOMMENDATION If it’s Sunday morning and you need to take the edge off of a long week, go with one of their Irish coffees. With a hot and cold option, there’s a drink for you no matter the weather. forbiddenplanetiowacity.com Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sun 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

PRAIRIE LIGHTS BOOKS 15 S. Dubuque St. bookstore opens 10 am daily cafĂŠ opens 9 am daily prairielights.com

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eats BY BETSY POTTER

For decades, passersby have been able to catch a glimpse of the pizza chefs in action through Pagliai’s iconic windows. Photo by Towler Photography

A sampling of downtown traditions owntown Iowa City is home to one of the most diverse and vibrant culinary scenes in the state. While the influx of new and changing restaurants creates a buzz, many of our time-honored eateries boast traditions that continue to draw crowds year after year.

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Need some comfort food? The burger: an American comfort food staple. It’s hard to beat a juicy, mouth-watering beef patty with gooey cheese. Bo-James has been serving up its beloved patty baskets for over 30 years, at a price that’s hard to beat. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere in one of their many comfortable booths, or belly up to the bar with one of their “Big” beers on Thursday’s karaoke night. Maybe grab the mic yourself and sing a tune. Bo-James is always a recipe for a good time.

T he h aunTed B ookshop 219 N Gilbert St Iowa City, IA, 52245, USA 319.337.2996

USED BOOKS • NEW TOYS!

Eat Local • Drink Local • Be Local

Jigsaw Puzzles

118 E Washington St

www.thehauntedbookshop.com

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GOLF COURSE 4390 Sand Rd SE (Gilbert St. South) Iowa City, IA

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www.pleasantvalleyic.com fall/winter 2015

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“Best way to get rid of kitchen odors: Eat out.” Phyllis Diller

eats

THE COFFEE BEAN CAUCUS RUN BY HAMBURG INN NO. 2 OWNER DAVE PANTHER IS SERIOUS BUSINESS FOR POLITICIANS’ CAMPAIGNS. GANNETT FILE PHOTO

information Donnelly’s Irish Pub 110 E. College Street donnellyspub-ic.com Bo-James 118 E. Washington Street bo-james.com Hamburg Inn No. 2 214 N. Linn Street hamburginn.com Pagliai’s Pizza 302 E. Bloomington Street pagliaisic.com

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Feeling a bit Irish? In 2005, 30 years after the original Donnelly’s Pub closed, Donnelly’s Irish Pub rejoined the Iowa City scene under new ownership. Today, avid soccer fans flock to Donnelly’s. As the official pub of the Iowa City American Outlaw Soccer Club, Donnelly’s stays true to its Irish roots, offering traditional fare including fish and chips and an impressive stock of Irish Whiskey and Scotch. Hawkeye fans also stop at Donnelly’s on game days for their famous Irish Car Bombs, deviled eggs, tasty reubens and Bloody Marys before heading down to Kinnick.

Want to voice your political opinion? Hamburg Inn No. 2 (or as the locals refer to it, “The Burg”) is an experience in itself. While the menu includes dozens of breakfast delights and famous pie shakes, the restaurant plays a prominent role in local, state and national elections as a “must stop” on the campaign trail. Step into

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this small diner in the Northside Marketplace and check out the walls full of photos of politicians who have visited over the years. Each election year, the Hamburg Inn hosts the Coffee Bean Caucus where patrons cast their vote for political candidates by dropping a coffee bean in the candidate’s jar. Make sure to cast your votes in 2016!

Step back in time… When you talk about Iowa City traditions, Pagliai’s Pizza in the Northside Marketplace will always make the list. This is one of those eating experiences that will change the way you think of pizza. Pagliai’s is an old-fashioned pizza parlor that makes you feel like you stepped back in time. Here traditions are honored and revered, down to the family dough recipe that has been passed down for generations. For more than 50 years, Pagliai’s has earned accolades and loyal fans, due to their fresh ingredients and friendly, quality service. n

How is your clothing made? Recycled Polyester We began making recycled polyester from plastic soda bottles in 1993—the first outdoor clothing manufacturer to transform trash into fleece. By reducing the amount of virgin polyester in many of our products, and replacing it entirely with recycled polyester in some, we reduce our need for petroleum to make raw materials and cut landfill and incinerator waste. We use recycled polyester in durable, multifunctional products like our cozy Synchilla® Snap-T® Hoody. How is your clothing made? Learn more about Recycled Polyester at patagonia.com/recycledpolyester

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outdoor apparel and accessories

138 S Clinton Street Downtown Iowa City Since 1986

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Downtown chefs behind the scenes:

“Restaurants create community and impact people’s lives. People have their first date at our restaurant, and we care about that.” Chef Brady McDonald, Basta

Basta Executive Chef Brady McDonald (right) and Chef de Cuisine Bobby Castle (left)

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A labor of

love

Downtown Iowa City is fast becoming a foodie’s paradise with exciting eateries popping up all over. Newcomer chefs are moving here from across the country to join stalwarts of the local dining scene, and together they’re bringing fresh concepts to a community hungry to try something different.

There are so many options downtown, from fine dining, to casual diners, to grab-and-go. But take a peek into the minds and hearts of four of our local chefs and see what unites them all: a passion for creating happiness by feeding people great food.

Creating community Basta’s executive chef, Brady McDonald explained, “It’s all about the guests and making people happy. Restaurants create community and impact people’s lives. People have their first date at our restaurant and we care about that.” A high school trip to Italy sparked McDonald’s love for Italian food. After training at Kirkwood’s culinary school and working jobs in local restaurants, he returned to Italy for a placement at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Florence. This experience gave McDonald an appreciation for the care and culture that informs authentic Italian cooking. At the end of his placement, he came back to Iowa City and joined the kitchen at Atlas Bar and Grill. When owners Jack Piper and James Adrian decided to open Basta next door, McDonald was all in. “I loved the idea of doing something new and fresh, and bringing wood-fired Neapolitan pizza to downtown,” he said. Basta cures a lot of their own meats and buys local food whenever they can from producers such as The Friendly Farm and Echollective CSA. McDonald gets excited when talking about local providers.

By Amy Sundermann PHOTOS BY Zak Neumann

“Every mushroom we have right now is from Anything But Green Gardens (in Vinton), and we love Marvin’s Corn (from Iowa City-area farmer Marvin Hotz). It’s great to get produce that’s still hot from the field,” he said. In the four years Basta has been open, McDonald has seen a shift in what Iowa City diners are looking for and a willingness to try new things. “There has always been a crowd of adventurous people here,” he said, “but the advent of food culture means people have a lot of trust and faith in chefs now. The food scene in Iowa City has expanded tremendously.”

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Bread garden executive chef christian prochaska

Top-notch quality

information Basta Pizzeria Ristorante 121 Iowa Avenue (319) 337-2010 bastaiowacity.com Molly’s Cupcakes 14 S. Clinton Street (319) 333-1297 icmollys.com Pullman Bar & Diner 17 S. Dubuque Street (319) 338-1808 pullmandiner.com Bread Garden Market 225. S. Linn Street (319) 351-9199 breadgardenmarket.com

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Chef Christian Prochaska’s path toward cooking took him in a westwardly direction. A Washington, Iowa, native, he left for culinary school in Portland, Oregon, at age 18. After an internship in Denver, he returned to Iowa to work for Jim Mondanaro at his restaurants in Iowa City and West Des Moines. Prochaska left Iowa to cook in Seattle for a while but returned to Iowa City where he owned Taste on Melrose for several years. He remained in touch with Mondanaro and after Taste closed, the two found themselves together again. Prochaska is now executive chef at the Bread Garden Market – a grocery, deli, restaurant, wine shop and more. Although Prochaska isn’t cooking on the line these days, his role is to oversee the various departments at the Bread Garden and how products used throughout the store come together in the kitchen. “First and foremost, Jim is so into quality. The meats we use are top notch. Our beef is all certified Angus, processed in Tama from a 150mile radius. Every week we bring back truckloads of produce from Kalona. All of our stocks and dressings are homemade. We wouldn’t dream of buying salad dressing out of a bucket,” he explained. Local products are a big deal at the Bread Garden, including cheeses from Maytag and Prairie Breeze, pies from Hoard’s Bakery in Riv-

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Pullman executive chef sepehr sadrzadeh

erside, Cheryl’s Salsa from Wellman, and tofu from Old Capitol Food Co. But they also carry high-quality packaged and canned items, plus a good selection of international treats. “We have macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders available here, because that’s what a lot of people like. A parent can bring his kids in from playing on the Ped Mall and everyone can find something for lunch that they’ll enjoy. But Iowa City culture also includes a lot of international students. We want our food to appeal to a lot of people,” Prochaska said.

‘Best/worst decision of my life’ A self-described “Seattle boy who has lived everywhere,” Sepehr Sadrzadeh has been cooking since he was 15 years old. During culinary school, Sadrzadeh took an externship with Chef Ben Smart at The Herbfarm in Washington state. He clearly made a good impression because, two weeks after graduation, Smart called with an invitation to come to Solon to cook with him at Big Grove Brewery. “I call it the best worst decision of my life,” Sadrzadeh joked. “I had never been to Iowa. I had nowhere to live. But I packed up and came here anyway. I think it’s a great environment. Everyone is so nice.” After 16 months at Big Grove, Sadrzadeh was given the opportunity to become executive chef

Molly’s cupcakes executive pastry chef abbie misfelt

at Pullman Diner, a new venture in downtown Iowa City. He describes the menu at Pullman as “approachable food, but with a twist.” “I love cooking with the seasons and what’s good right now. And what’s more fertile than Iowa for that kind of cooking?” he said. Pullman also buys local whenever they can, with produce from the farmers markets, dairy from Kalona, prosciutto from Norwalk, and even popcorn from Tiny But Mighty in Shellsburg. Sadrzadeh combines these local ingredients with his love of ethnic flavors to create popular special events. “I have a sick obsession with ramen, from my experience in the Asian community in Seattle. So we had a ‘Ramen and Magic Night’ at Pullman. Specials are a way to introduce newer things and build trust with the customers,” he said.

Baking happiness Abbie Misfelt, executive pastry chef at Molly’s Cupcakes, also trained in Florence. But that’s not all she and McDonald have in common.

A Palo, Iowa, native, Misfeldt went to culinary school in Chicago and worked in the culinary departments of the Art Institute of Chicago before leaving to study in Florence. Upon returning to the States, she fell in love the pastry side of cooking. Molly’s Cupcakes has stores on Chicago and New York and, when the opportunity came to join a new Molly’s in Iowa City, Misfeldt jumped at the chance. She takes pride in making everything at Molly’s from scratch, including the 16 different cupcake fillings. Younger guests especially enjoy customizing their cupcakes at the Sprinkling Station. Not one to settle for “good enough,” Misfeldt is constantly in search of interesting new flavor combinations. “I’m always on Pinterest and Instagram to see what the trends are and searching for flavor combinations that people will want. The seasons are also really important influences,” she explained. Whether they are preparing a multi-course meal, a lovely sweet treat, or a take-away lunch, these four chefs are united by their passion for food, commitment to quality, and love of feeding the community. n

“Making people happy is why I do my job,” she said. “I love to create things like custom cakes or (baby) gender-reveal cupcakes because I know how excited people will be when they see them.”

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Balmond’s ‘Lens’ to provide a new view of Downtown lans are progressing for a major renovation of Washington Street in downtown Iowa City next year, including a new and exciting public art dimension that will enhance the way residents and visitors see and interact with our evolving City center. In recognition of Iowa City’s rich history as an artistic and cultural hub, and in anticipation of the downtown openings of the world-class University of Iowa Museum of Art in 2017 and the Voxman School of Music Building in 2016, the City of Iowa City invited Cecil Balmond to

design a one-of-a-kind piece for one of its most beloved public spaces. The result is an ingenious marriage of art and science. Balmond creates some of the world’s most intriguing works of art. His iconic installations and forms reorganize space, producing unique experiences and improving communities. Balmond’s piece, titled “The Lens,” honors Black Hawk Mini Park’s significance as a communal space in the Pedestrian Mall for formal and informal gathering, performance, and protest. A circular pattern of seating within the park will

About The Artist Cecil Balmond -- designer, architect, engineer, and writer – is known for his challenging industrial fabrications that make seemingly impossible forms a reality. His algorithmic approach to design uses mathematical concepts to influence forms that appreciate both the underlining structure and spontaneity of nature. Famous for his large-scale public art, Balmond’s transformative installations have a profound effect not only on their environments, but on all who experience his creations. His work is not simply public art, but art for the public. Iowa City’s partnership with Balmond, a UK native, reflects the ever-increasing cultural diversity of our community, which prizes its collaboration with world leaders in art, music, literature and science, making Iowa City a truly international destination.

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create an amphitheater setting complete with a rostrum for public speaking. Uniquely suited to the space, Balmond’s work will strengthen downtown’s cultural identify and reinforce Iowa City’s role as an international leader in the arts.

The Lens Designed to be interactive and playful, a tilted 30-foot circular disc hosts a center of twisting louvers which will function like an opening and closing eye. Through this “lens,” the changing light of the day and season will be captured and refracted onto the surrounding people and buildings. During the daylight hours, the sun’s rays will throw shadows of the disc’s form, creating moving circles across the park’s paving stones. At night, an arc of colored light imbedded in the lens will project onto the metal blades, reflecting outward. The animation of the louvers’ sliding geometry will enhance a sense of theater that is integral to the history and character of the Pedestrian Mall — a space that for many defines the Iowa City experience. The timeline for installation of The Lens will be depend on several factors, including coordination of the art piece with other Streetscape projects, a successful fundraising campaign, and potential alignment to welcome the new University of Iowa Art Museum in 2017. The excitement around The Lens and a renovated Washington Street will not come without challenges associated with construction impacts. Anticipating a need for additional marketing and communication for next summer, the Iowa City Downtown District is working on a specific campaign to encourage patrons and community members to shop downtown despite the dust. The campaign, to be rolled out in 2016, will incorporate some guerrilla marketing tactics to capitalize on a unique opportunity for a limited-access view of what lies beneath the street. n

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Once a Hawkeye . . . Always a Hawkeye! BY NATE KAEDING

hen I retired from the NFL in 2013, after nearly a decade with the San Diego Chargers, I knew exactly what I wanted to do next: Return to downtown Iowa City, the home of my alma mater, and start a business. During my years in professional football, I developed a mental inventory of the restaurant and retail concepts that were catching fire in markets across the country. On the road, I spent hours walking around the shopping and entertainment districts in other cities. Call it research and development, or just a good way to kill some downtime. I was constantly asking myself, “Would this work in Iowa City?” Living and owning a business in a bustling college town like Iowa City has a lot of perks beyond dollars and cents: enlightening, lifelong learning opportunities, close proximity to world-class health care, outstanding schools for our children, the energy and enthusiasm of 32,000+ UI students and, of course, game days at Kinnick Stadium. With the help of great business partners, in the last two years I’ve been able to successfully launch both a clothing store (Tailgate) and a restaurant (Pullman Bar & Diner). I’m not alone in my decision to return to the home of the Hawks, settle down and build a business. In fact, more than 70 UI alumni proudly display the “University of Iowa Alumni Owned Business” decal. You can find them throughout the Downtown District, in storefront windows and in the offices of lawyers, real estate developers, and doctors. For some alumni like Todd Thelen (MFA 1993), owner of Artifacts, the seeds of their business were planted while they were still enrolled at the University. He began selling antiques and found objects to Granny’s Antique

Mall in the early ‘90s while pursuing an MFA in printmaking. The business blossomed, and in 2003 Thelen opened Artifacts in its current location in the Northside Marketplace.

ALUMNI BUSINES

“In this community you are surrounded by art,” Thelen said.

“Without that appreciation, this business isn’t possible. This is an incredibly educated community of people who appreciate finer things.” The diversity of people and personalities adds another layer of richness to life as a shop owner in a college town. “The University always has fascinating people coming into town,” Thelan said. “It’s sad when regulars leave after graduation, but there are always new people coming in. I love it.” Mark Weaver (BS 1970) noticed a need for outdoor apparel while he was studying education at UI. “There was a void in the market once Bivouac (a former outdoor apparel store located at the current Panchero’s location) closed. I wanted to bring the mountain culture back to downtown Iowa City,” he said. Weaver launched Active Endeavors in 1986, and the popular store has been a retail anchor in downtown ever since. It has thrived on the steady and reliable influx of students in need of fashionable back-to-school clothes and wintertime necessities. And the location right across the street from campus is perfect.

information Artifacts 331 E. Market Street (319) 358-9617 artifacts-iowacity.com Active Endeavors 138 S. Clinton Street (319) 337-9444 shopactiveendeavors.com Micky’s Irish Pub 11 S. Dubuque Street (319) 338-6860 mickysirishpub.com For a complete list of downtown’s UI alumniowned businesses, visit: downtowniowacity.com/ pages/visit/ui-alumnibusinesses.php

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Iowa City is such a great place.

“Iowa City is such a great place,” Weaver said. “I didn’t ever want to leave it.” Aaron Jennings (BA 2003) owns of a piece of nostalgia. Jennings bought the iconic Micky’s Irish Pub in 2013 and is passionate about being a steward of so many fond memories.

I didn’t ever wa Mark Weaver, Active Endeavors

“We feel like we are part of campus and part of the University experience, which is really cool. It’s amazing how many people come in and tell us they met here back in the ‘80s or had their first date at Micky’s,” Jennings said. “Now they’re back dropping their kids off at school. The hope is their kids will now make this experience their own.” After graduation, Jennings lived in Idaho Falls and San Francisco and didn’t sense the same sort of connectedness or community he feels in downtown Iowa City. There is mutual support and synergy between the University and downtown that makes doing business in the District so special. Jennings, who grew up in Iowa City, said he’s noticed that “it’s easier to own a business here, having gone to school here and knowing how many people are supportive in the community. And Hawkeye fans are hugely supportive of locally owned businesses.” n Nate Kaeding is a University of Iowa alumnus, downtown business owner and Retail Development Director for the Iowa City Downtown District.

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art

BY JOE TIEFENTHALER

“It’s long been known that the art house scene in Los Angeles lags behind that of New York, but must we be outdone by Iowa City as well?” Michael Nordine, Los Angeles Times, July 17, 2015 Art by Michael B. Wilson

he arts landscape downtown is changing, and a vision for what arts and culture can and should bring to our community is evolving with it. Partnerships between arts venues and organizations and our business community, nonprofits, and educational centers bring envy-inducing programming and outreach that has pricked the egos and sensitivities of the likes of the L.A. Times. Downtown will change tremendously during the next five years. We’ll see fresh takes and updates to our storefronts, alleys, streetscapes, and sculptures. Hancher Auditorium will create a new doorway to the city. Our arts horizons downtown will quite literally expand beyond our current borders, with world class performances at the new School of Music, a new neighbor in the University of Iowa’s Museum of Art, and the possibility of two new, state-of-the art screens and outdoor cinema within the Chauncey Project development. We will see a new physical landscape built on a vision for growth, recruitment, and retention, in a district and city with growing density and rising possibilities in retail, employment, and culture. These new partnerships and collaborations across the Downtown District and the arts community are bringing iconic performers, filmmakers, authors, and artists into our classrooms, boutiques, restaurants, and stores. We are seeing internationally renowned musicians in our recording studios. Thinkers, painters, entrepreneurs and astronomers all come together on the same stage for one weekend. Here are but a few upcoming events for your calendars that go beyond a ticket and a seat, that reach out into our community:

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October / December / February / April (check website for details) A partnership between FilmScene, Bread Garden Market, and Little Village, Vino Vérité brings contemporary filmmakers to Iowa City to interact twofold with our community – a wine-paired screening and reception at night, and then an educational outreach component typically geared towards youth engagement in film and discussions the next day. In wine, in dialogue, and in education, there is truth.

October 23

One of the world’s most inventive filmmakers is coming to Iowa City. The University of Iowa Lecture Committee will present “In Conversation with Terry Gilliam,” a free discussion (7:30 p.m., IMU Ballroom) in conjunction with the Obermann-International Programs Humanities Symposium “Don Quixote in the Age of Electronic Reproduction.” Prior to the lecture, FilmScene will host a reception and gala event honoring Gilliam for his decades of visionary filmmaking. Throughout the month of October, FilmScene will also present a retrospective featuring Gilliam’s acclaimed works on the big screen with “Cinema Savant: Select Films of Terry Gilliam,” a seven-film series including featured films in a number of FilmScene’s ongoing series, including the Bijou Film Board’s After Hours, The Picture Show presented by MidWestOne Bank, and The Late Shift at the Grindhouse. Details and showtimes TBA soon.

November 6 - 7 Members of EntreFest, Little Village Magazine, Mission Creek Festival, FilmScene, and the Englert introduce Witching Hour, a two-day conference/festival dedicated to exploring and engaging the unknown. Featuring musicians, artists, filmmakers, magicians, artists, comedians, astronomers, brain surgeons and more, these discussions and performances will take place in venues across downtown Iowa City.

Englert englert.org

Iowa City Public Library icpl.org

Public Space One publicspaceone.com

UI School of Music music.uiowa.edu

FilmScene icfilmscene.org

Little Village littlevillagemag.com

Riverside Theater riversidetheatre.org

downtowniowacity.com

Hancher Auditorium hancher.uiowa.edu

Mission Creek Festival missionfreak.com

UI Museum of Art uima.uiowa.edu

UNESCO City of Literature cityofliteratureusa.org

November 18

December 5

December 12

February 26 – 28

The Englert Theater, Mission Creek Festival, and FilmScene have collaborated to bring art-house film luminary and performance artist Isabella Rossellini to Iowa City for a performance of her smash-hit web series Green Porno. But if that’s not enough, inquire at the Englert box office about tickets that will include a pre-show reception in the four seasons Plaza Towers penthouse with complimentary food and beverages catered by Clinton Street Social Club, premium seating at the show, and an intimate post-show Q&A with Rossellini on stage at the Englert. Unbelievable access to a legend.

Perhaps the most important festival each calendar year, UNESCO City of Literature’s One Book Two Book celebrates young writers in our community, and from across the state of Iowa. Last year alone, One Book Two Book honored more than 120 young authors.

information

Before her performance, Englert Theater guest and performance poetry icon Andrea Gibson will lead a workshop called “Spoken Word in Action” for 15 high school poets who come from Iowa Youth Writing Projectaffiliated schools and community centers. After the workshop, Andrea will sit down with a small group of IYWP volunteers and instructors to discuss the integration of social justice and creative writing.

Hancher Auditorium has partnered with performance arts centers across the country to commission “A 24-Decade History of Popular Music” from performer, playwright, and singer-songwriter Taylor Mac. Just down the hill, in Mabie Theater, the Iowa City gig focuses on The 1850s: Whitman & Stephen Foster. A Hancher Artist in Residence, Mac will also work with a number of UI classes and LGBTQ groups during his time in Iowa City.

Witching Hour witchinghourfestival.com

And that’s just a start. Look for nightly readings at Prairie Lights, or the monthly, ICDD-led First Round’s On Us bringing together culture and business leaders. Check out the programs and gallery exhibits at Public Space One, the world class programming nightly screened at FilmScene, or the nine-month Music is the Word program at the Iowa City Public Library welcoming the School of Music to downtown. There’s that thing again. A growing downtown. And growing possibilities. Engage now, because these next five years are really going to be something. n

April 5 – 10 The 2016 Mission Creek Festival returns to present artists and attendees with uncommon programming. Coming off a 10th anniversary festival that featured over 400 musicians, authors, artists, chefs, and performers reaching our community in more than 23 downtown venues and businesses, the 2016 festival also celebrates a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Themed “Beyond the Text,” the lineup will feature graphic storytellers, comic artists, literary installations, and more, alongside the premier lineup of iconic and emerging headlining acts. Keep your eyes out this fall/winter for this year’s Mission Creek musician-in-residence Ian Svenonious (Chain and The Gang), who will be working and recording in Iowa City’s own state-ofthe-art recording studio, Flat Black Studios.

Note: Joe Tiefenthaler is executive director of FilmScene.

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Downtown Iowa City: big-city brands; small-town store owners you went to school with Intimates/Socks

181 Revival

135 OM

122 Catherine’s Outlet

46 AKAR

108 rsvp

OC Silver Spider

19 Domby

41 Dulcinea

122 Catherine’s Outlet

OC Four Seasons

135 OM

19 Domby

OC Silver Spider

41 Dulcinea

223 Tailgate

Jewelry

181 Revival

30 Ewers

OC Four Seasons

66 The Full Kit

Dresses

162 Active Endeavors Catherine’s

122 Catherine’s Outlet

41 Dulcinea

Women’s 9

Catherine’s

19 Domby

OC Four Seasons

135 OM

127 Ragstock

127 Ragstock 181 Revival

182 Revival 119

125 Sicily

OC Silver Spider

123 Textiles

156 Velvet Coat

223 Tailgate 123 Textiles

146 White Rabbit

156 Velvet Coat

162 Active Endeavors

31 Austin Burke

127 Ragstock 175 RAYGUN 181 Revival

182 Revival 119

116 Running Wild

Iowa Book

181 Revival

223 Tailgate

31 Austin Burke

125 Sicily

123 Textiles

Catherine’s

122 Catherine’s outlet

52 Chait Galleries

206 Hot House Yoga

19 Domby

Iowa Book

115 Discerning Eye

41 Dulcinea

182 Revival 119

30 Ewers

117 The Den

81 Home Ec

116 Running Wild

223 Tailgate

106 Artifacts

Activewear

116 Running Wild

156 Velvet Coat

OC Four Seasons 126 Iowa Artisans Gallery 1

Iowa Book

37 McDonald Optical 135 OM

127 Ragstock 175 RAYGUN

IC downtown magazine

111 Hands Jewelers

126 Iowa Artisans Gallery

116 Running Wild

162 Active Endeavors

127 Ragstock

OC Glassando

46 AKAR

30 Ewers

66 The Full Kit

OC Four Seasons

41 Dulcinea

175 Raygun

OC Advanced Eyecare

30 Ewers

Catherine’s

52 Chait Galleries

156 Velvet Coat

127 Ragstock

41 Dulcinea

Home

Beadology

41 Dulcinea

Accessories

162 Active Endeavors

19 Domby

146 White Rabbit

51 9

162 Active Endeavors

31 Austin Burke

122 Catherine’s Outlet

156 Velvet Coat

46 AKAR

52 Chait Galleries

Jackets/Coats

Catherine’s

58 University Camera

28 M.C. Ginsberg

146 White Rabbit

123 Textiles

Prairie Lights

121 Herteen and Stocker Jewelers

Men’s

31 Austin Burke

116 Running Wild

106 Artifacts

123 Textiles

146 White Rabbit

162 Active Endeavors

182 Revival 119

fall/winter 2015

46 AKAR

190 Bread Garden

126 Iowa Artisans Gallery

OC CVS

181 Revival

111 Hands Jewelers

146 White Rabbit

135 OM

Toys

175 Raygun

46 AKAR

108 rsvp

82 Haunted Bookshop

145 The Art Mission

126 Iowa Artisans Gallery

182 Revival 119 123 Textiles

211 The Futon Shop

15 Daydreams Comics

81 Home Ec 1

Iowa Book

146 White Rabbit

175 RAYGUN

Books

OC Silver Spider

46 AKAR 51

Beadology

Daydreams Comics

OC Beat the Bookstore 82 Haunted Bookshop 81 Home Ec 1

Iowa Book

182 Revival 119

146 White Rabbit

Consignment Clothing 106 Artifacts

224 DECORUM 127 Ragstock 181 Revival

list of dininG tions, visit om

182 Revival 119

Groceries

190 Bread Garden

OC CVS

linn street 81 108

jefferson street

secret passaGeway to tHe nortHside

iowa avenue

OC Universitees

Beadology

OC Blick Art Materials 224 DECORUM Iowa Book

81 Home Ec

144 Record Collector 181 Revival 108 rsvp

clinton street

22 Zephyr Printing & Design

tower place parkinG ramp

1ST HOUR FREE!

31 30 223

188 Underground Printing

106 Artifacts

117 The Den

41 58

15 28 111

22 115 116 117

free wifi on tHe ped mall

53 52 51

washington street

126 127

121 122

135

pedestrian mall 123 125

162

140

156 175

181 182 sHeraton Hotel

223 Tailgate

146 145 144

iowa city public library 188

OC Sweets & Treats

linn street

Iowa Book

223 Tailgate

Gifts/Other old capitol town center

106

93 (across Gilbert Street)

Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grocery

Hawkeye/Iowa Apparel

For the most current list of shopping options, visit downtowniowacity.com

ui museum of 59 Zen Salon & Spa natural History

#downtowniowacity

135 OM

224

Stores listed in gold are in the Old Capitol Town Center, 201 South Clinton Street

77 HABA Salon

to mercy Hospital

market street

Stores listed in blue are in the Northside Marketplace

Beauty

Location numbers correspond to numbers on the Downtown Iowa City kiosk maps. Stores listed in black are in downtown Iowa City

140 Buzz Salon iowa pentacrest

capitol 93 useum

dubuque street

clinton street

acity

gilbert street

bloomington street

exit 244

college street

190

Hotelvetro

The Paper Nest

capitol parkinG ramp

1ST HOUR FREE!

206

dubuque street

58 University Camera

dubuque street parkinG ramp

1ST HOUR FREE!

211

burlington street

“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.” Bo Derek

shopping By Amy Sundermann

More than a store

Customer experience above and beyond this age of online everything, it might be surprising to learn that 90 percent of retail sales still take place within a physical, “bricks and mortar” store. According to a 2014 study by global management consultancy AT Kearney, “Stores provide consumers with a sensory experience that allows them to touch and feel products, immerse in brand experiences, and engage with sales associates who provide tips and reaffirm shopper enthusiasm for their new purchases. “

information Catherine’s Boutique 7 S. Dubuque Street (319) 338-2210 catherinesic.com Hands Jewelers 109 E. Washington Street (319) 351-0333 handsjewelers.com r.s.v.p. 140 N. Linn Street (319) 337-4400 rsvp-asap.com Home Ec Workshop 207 N. Linn Street (319) 337-4775 homeecworkshop.com

IC downtown magazine

Nowhere are exciting consumer experiences more alive and well than in downtown Iowa City, where a diverse array of one-of-a-kind stores offer several ways for customers to explore the merchandise and interact with friendly shopkeepers. In fact, many of these experiences go far beyond what is on the shelves or in the display cases.

Delivering in style Catherine Champion has long gone above and beyond the call of duty for customers of her namesake store, Catherine’s Boutique. “The business of small business is overthe-top customer service,” she explained. “In the past week, we’ve taken graduation gifts to our customers’ children, delivered an earring someone left in the store and driven to Cedar Rapids to bring a purchase to a customer.” Catherine’s has customers throughout the Corridor area, but they also have clients who live out of state and aren’t able to make it to the store as often as they would like. In that case, Catherine sends the store to them.

fall/winter 2015

“We’ll choose items we think they will like and send boxes of clothes to people on approval,” she said. “We have clients around the country who wear our clothes to places like the U.S. Senate floor and the Tony Awards.” Catherine’s has even been known to loan an item to a client for a one-time event. But perhaps one of their most appreciated gestures is sending personalized notes to men in advance of the holidays, suggesting specially selected gifts for their wives.

Gold Standard Service Charlie Nusser is the fifth generation of his family to serve customers at Hands Jewelers. He says from an early age his dad, Bill, taught him about how to treat others. “My dad has always said that a customer should never be victimized by a company’s policy,” Nusser explained. “Every Hands employee is empowered to do what’s right. You’ll never get in trouble here for doing something in the customer’s best interest.” One of the guiding principles at Hands is to treat everyone who comes in the store with the same high standard of service. Each person is greeted, offered a complimentary bottle of water, and invited to have a piece of their jewelry cleaned, whether it was purchased at Hands or not. The jeweler is known for wrapping packages with beautiful handmade bows, and every customer is offered this service, whether the purchase is a $10 keychain or a necklace worth tens of thousands of dollars. “We believe in nurturing relationships with our customers. That might mean

picking up a watch from someone that needs a new battery or band and delivering it back to them, or it might mean going to people’s homes to do appraisal work for an estate,” Nusser said.

Bill Nusser creates one of Hands Jeweler’s famous bows.

Hands also regularly donates items to support area charities and non-profits, including the Iowa Children’s Museum, the local American Heart Association gala, Riverside Theatre and others.

PHOTO BY Kacie Eckermann

Connection and community Catherine’s regularly sends clothing on approval to customers who live outside the Iowa City area. PHOTO BY Zak Neumann

One might be forgiven for thinking r.s.v.p. is a just a place to buy whimsical cards or beautiful wrapping paper. It is that, of course, but it’s so much more. For owner Niki Neems, it’s about connection and community. “My dad was a retail pharmacist in a small town, and I grew up knowing I was from someplace because of it. I knew my neighbors and the goings-on of my community. I wanted to create a similar world for my own child, which is why I opened the store 16 years ago,” she explained. “Since then, our focus has been to offer a well-curated selection of stationery, greeting cards and gifts, but also to act as a community touch point. A place people can stop in to slow down, browse, and connect with someone else. Many of our customers have been shopping with us since the start, which is an honor of sorts.” r.s.v.p. supports all kinds of community arts-related events including literary readings, tiny musical concerts, record release parties, and a preview of a play written by Iowa City’s Maggie Conroy. The store has participated in the Downtown Gallery Walk since it opened, and r.s.v.p. regularly offers gallery space to visual artists. A poet herself, Neems makes a concerted effort to spread art and poetry throughout the community. “We’ve made a call for numerous mail art projects and (we) celebrate poetry month each April with a sponsored poetry event. The last few have involved us hand copying 100 poems and mailing them out to customers in hopes they’ll read and pass them on. I saw one of these tucked among the cantaloupes at the New Pioneer Co-op!” she exclaimed. Neems gives back to the community whenever she can and makes almost weekly donations to organizations like school carnivals, UI student groups, The Englert, Riverside Theatre, Combined Efforts Drama, and more.

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gifts

Home Ec Workshop has become a gathering place for people to work on projects, learn something new and socialize. PHOTO BY Kacie Eckermann

A gathering place

Holiday Gift Guide

Home Ec Workshop owner Codi Josephson modeled her store after the home economics classes that used to be taught in schools. “There was a social aspect about coming together to hang out and learn different skills. We want to create a community where people can come sit, have something to eat or drink, and learn how to use the items we sell,” she said. Home Ec Workshop offers a wide variety of classes for adults as well as children in knitting, sewing, quilting, fabric dying and more. A café sells bakery items and beverages to enjoy while working. Kids can have birthday parties at Home Ec where the “goody bag” is an actual bag they make themselves. A “knitting doctor” is on hand periodically to assist people who have gotten stuck on a yarn project. The shop has been a key partner with the Downtown District on the annual Tree Huggers project, which wraps downtown trees in colorful knitted sweaters during the dreary winter months. Josephson and her colleagues organize bags of yarn for the volunteer knitters and serve as a pick-up and drop-off point for the tree sweaters. At the end of the Tree Huggers season, the pieces are removed, cleaned and turned into blankets for people in need.

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“In the eight years we’ve been here, many of our customers have become our friends. We’ve watched people’s children grow up. We really are part of the fabric of the neighborhood,” Josephson smiled.

Keep it local These retailers are among the dozens downtown that offer extra-special service and experiences to their customers. By shopping local, money stays local and gets reinvested over and over again. As r.s.v.p.’s Neems explained, “Supporting local businesses keeps money in your own community. A brick and mortar business is most likely an active supporter of local organizations and events. I can’t stress enough how much of a difference it makes to small businesses when folks choose to keep it local during the holiday season!” n

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“The quickest way to know a woman is to go shopping with her.” Marcelene Cox

information Active Endeavors shopactiveendeavors.com

13 1. Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge - Hands Jewelers, $14.95 2. Iowa City Mugs Designed for r.s.v.p. by Rock Scissor Paper - r.s.v.p., $17.50 3. Polar Bear Cardigan– RAYGUN, $35 4. Ugg Slippers - Catherine’s, $95+ 5. Tanzanite Necklace - M.C. Ginsberg, $17,500 6. Tegu Building Set – AKAR, $35 7. Patagonia Better Sweater - Active Endeavors, $99 8. “What Pet Should I Get?” by Dr. Seuss Prairie Lights Books, $17.99 9. Juniper Ridge Trail Resin Solid Cologne – Revival, 119 $35 10. National Parks Posters Frame - The Art Mission, $200 11. Daniel Wellington Watch - Herteen & Stocker, $189 12. P.F. Candles - White Rabbit Gallery, $12/$18 13. Aveda Gift of Peaceful Moments – Zen Salon & Spa, $41 14. Swell Bottle – Tailgate, $35/$45 15. Urban Oxide by HOBO Purses – Textiles, $45+ 16. Kit Kat Clock - Sage + Sky, $55 17. Blown Glass Ornaments – Glassando, $25 18. Mistaken Lyrics Coasters - Iowa Artisans Gallery, $30 19. Whitties Knitties – Dulcinea, $30

AKAR akardesign.com Bread Garden Market breadgardenmarket.com Catherine’s catherinesic.com Dulcinea (319) 339-9468

Ewers ewersmensstore.com Glassando glassando.com Hands Jewelers handsjewelers.com Herteen & Stocker Jewelers herteenandstockerjewelers.com Iowa Artisans Gallery iowa-artisans-gallery.com

M.C. Ginsberg – Objects of Art mcginsberg.com Prairie Lights Books prairielights.com Revival 119 revivaliowacity.com/collections/ revival-119 r.s.v.p. rsvp-asap.com

Sage + Sky (319) 339-9468 Tailgate tailgateclothing.com Textiles (319) 339-0410 The Art Mission (319) 466-1006 White Rabbit Gallery whiterabbitgallery.com

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IC downtown magazine

“I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph.” Shirley Temple

santa

#TisTheSeasonDowntown by Betsy Potter

ome experience downtown Iowa City this winter season and experience that nostalgic, warm feeling of what the holidays should be! Downtown Iowa City knows how to celebrate the festivities. Whatever level of merriment you seek, we’ve got you covered!

Santa Saturdays! Nov. 27, 28, Dec. 5, 12, 19 – 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Santa will leave his busy workshop for five special trips downtown to meet the area’s good girls and boys. Families can enjoy peppermint treats and FREE photos with the jolly ol’ fella at FilmScene, as Santa sits down with children to hear their holiday wish lists. Come a little early, because at 10 a.m. MidWestOne Bank presents The Picture Show series featuring family films at a discounted price.

Downtown Horse Drawn Carriage Rides Nov. 27, 28, Dec. 5, 12, 19 – 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

There is no better way to take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season than a horsedrawn carriage around downtown Iowa City. Enjoy a whimsical ride while singing carols to the tune of antique sleigh bells, nestled in the enclosed comfort provided by Country Gentleman’s Horse & Carriage Service. Launched in 2014 by the Iowa City Downtown District in partnership with Hills Bank and Trust Company, the carriage rides are FREE, but the line starts forming early!

Downtown Hunt for the Elves Nov. 27-Dec. 24

50 of Santa’s Elves are hiding all over downtown waiting to be found! The hunt begins on Nov. 27, and participants will have until Dec. 24 to track down at least half of their locations within the downtown businesses. Those who find at least 25 of those mischievous elves will receive a prize (downtowniowacity.com).

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY MARKET Dec. 12, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

downtowniowacity.com

IC downtown magazine

Fall/Winter 2015

Just in time for the holidays! On Saturday, Dec. 12, in Black Hawk Mini Park, part of the Ped Mall will transform into the Downtown Winter Market. Come experience the magic and excitement of the best holiday gifts downtown has to offer under one warm, festively decorated tent. In addition to the dozens of special gift offerings, the market will serve up hot toddies and hot cocoa at a bar throughout the day and into the night.

Do wnto wn Io wa City 118 E College St 319-887-7151

East Village Des Moines 500 E Locust St 515-244-6308

WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CLOTHING AND SHOE BOUTIQUE Follow us on Facebook to view new arrivals

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something to do

“I’ve been on a calendar, but I’ve never been on time.” Marilyn Monroe

Downtown Iowa City continues to offer a jam-packed schedule of events throughout the colder months. Mark your calendars and join the fun by following @downtowniowacity.com on Instagram.

NOV dec feb march april

Witching Hour Festival Johnson County ICLUB Pep Rally Santa Saturdays Downtown Holiday Trolley Downtown Hunt for the Elves Small Business Saturday

November 6-7 November 13 November 27-28 November 27-28 Begins November 27 November 28

witchinghourfestival.com jointheiclub.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com

The Library Friends Foundation’s Annual Arts & Crafts Bazaar Retail Open House Downtown Holiday Trolley Santa Saturdays Downtown Hunt for the Elves DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY MARKET

December 5 December 5 December 5, 12, 19 December 5, 12, 19 Ends December 24 December 12

icpl.org downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com downtowniowacity.com

One Book Two Book Festival

February 26-28

onebooktwobook.org

Iowa City Gallery Walk

March 4

downtowniowacity.com

Mission Creek Festival

April 5-10

missionfreak.com

skiing on the Pentacrest

IC downtown magazine

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Monday-Saturday 10-6 Thursday 10-7 Sunday 11-5

comfy U.S.A 速

109 S. Dubuque St.

on the Ped Mall

7 S. Dubuque catherinesic.com

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109 East Washington Street • Downtown Iowa City 319-351-0333 • 800-728-2888 • www.handsjewelers.com facebook.com/Hands JewelersIC • @handsjewelers