April 7, 2011
Veishea BBQ buttons are available for $5 at the University Book Store and through AccessPlus. Photo by Bob Elbert.
Veishea gears up next week
by Paula Van Brocklin
Most faculty and staff probably won't be in Veishea mode for about another week, but there are several events leading up to this year's Veishea weekend (April 15-16) that may pique your interest.
Everyone has to eat
Tired of your normal lunch routine? Purchase a Veishea BBQ Button for $5 and enjoy lunch on central campus Tuesday, April 12, through Friday, April 14 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.). Buttons are available at the University Book Store in the Memorial Union, and -- new this year -- through AccessPlus.
To order your button online, log in to AccessPlus, click on the "Employee" tab and then "Campus Org Events." Select "Browse Open Events" in the left column and click "Veishea buttons for faculty and staff." You have the option of paying electronically through your bank account or through U-Bill.
Not sure you want a button? A look at this year's menu may entice you. And if you still need a nudge, buttonholders can receive discounts during Veishea week at the University Book Store and at numerous other Ames businesses. You must have your button with you to receive the discounts.
Tournaments, anyone?
There's no shortage of tournaments during this year's Veishea celebration. Co-ed slowpitch; punt, pass and 40-yard run; Minute to Win It; Texas Hold'em -- the variety is vast. Most tournaments take place next week, though some begin as soon as today and this weekend. All tournaments are open to faculty, staff, community members, alumni and students. If you'd rather just watch, that's OK, too. More information, including dates, times, registration forms and fees, is online.
That's entertainment
If tournaments aren't your thing, there are several noncompetitive Veishea activities. ISU Theatre will perform Kiss Me, Kate for this year's Stars Over Veishea production. The show runs in Fisher Theater April 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m., and April 10 and 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $21 (students, $16) and available at the Iowa State Center ticket office or at the door.
Actress and comedian Amy Sedaris makes a return trip to campus Monday, April 11, for a free 8 p.m. performance (MU Great Hall). She will share insights into her latest book, Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People.
The laughs continue on Tuesday, April 12, with Veishea Says I'm Funny, an annual student comedy competition. The free show begins at 8 p.m. in the MU's Maintenance Shop. Live video of the performances will be streamed to the MU Great Hall.
The Leadership and Faculty Recognition Ceremony also is slated for Tuesday evening, April 12, beginning at 7 p.m. in the MU Sun Room. Veishea will recognize outstanding student leaders and faculty and staff who exemplify a commitment to Iowa State.
Cyclone Idol, Battle of Bands
ISU's top vocalists will compete in the Cyclone Idol final round, hosted by rapper Coolio, on Wednesday, April 13 (7 p.m., MU Great Hall). The event is free and open to the public.
The musical talents of ISU students also will be showcased Thursday, April 14, during Battle of the Bands (7 p.m., M-Shop). There is no cost to attend the concert.
Funny hypnotist
If you'd rather not rock out, Thursday evening features two free comedy performances by hypnotist Brian Imbus (8 p.m. and 10 p.m., MU Great Hall), and an outdoor showing of the film The Green Hornet, (9 p.m., central campus; rain location is MU Sun Room).
Look for more details about Veishea weekend 2011 in next week's Inside Iowa State. A complete Veishea schedule is online.
