I drink, therefore I am
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Every weekend —and some weekdays — thousands flock to the roughly 40 bars in downtown Iowa City. While students know the area as a place to go out, police and UI officials worry that downtown drinking could be excessive.
Many of the establishments are open to 19- and 20-year-olds, though some are only open to 21-year-olds and above.
The long arm of the law
Police know students drink downtown and drink often underage, and they note that there are ways people can ensure they’re not arrested.
Anyone who yells at a police officer, stands in the middle of traffic, or shouts at passersby will probably receive the attention of officers, said Iowa City police Sgt. Troy Kelsay.
If given a ticket, the best thing to do is to take it. Signing a citation is not an admission of guilt, and people get further arguing their cases in court than arguing with a police officer at 2 a.m.
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Officials target binge drinking
In the last year, university and city officials have moved to attempt to curb binge drinking. The UI has created an Alcohol Steering Committee to discuss ways to combat overconsumption.
A current proposal would, if the Iowa City City Council were to pass it, prevent new bars from opening within 500 feet existing bars. The city councilors have also worked to increase fines for drinking tickets.
“Drinking is always the hot topic in Iowa City,” said Councilor Mike O’Donnell. “It’s natural to have [students] want to go out and dance and meet people.”
Students’ favorite watering holes
“[One-Eyed] Jake’s is a pretty standard place to go. And Formosa, gotta love sake bombs.”
— UI student Jen McLinn
“Mug night at Brother’s is an economic lifesaver.”
—UI student Matt Pfeiffer
“Old Capital Brew Works is my favorite place in the city. It’s a calmer bar, but a great place to meet up with old friends for a few drinks or a round of pool.
— UI student Elliot Bear
“Airliner has a sporty atmosphere. You can go to watch games.”
UI student Nick Chamis
“[One-Eyed] Jake’s has the best drink specials.”
— UI student Aaron Udany
“DCs on Thursdays for mugs for the price of pints. Sports Column also has awesome drink specials.”
— UI student Andy Sulhoff
The pricey penalties
Don’t get slammed with any of these — you’ll be in the police blotter and likely have to cough up some money.
• Possession of alcohol under the legal age (PAULA): $314, second offense: $710
• Public intoxication: Fine differs, requires court appearance
• Presence in a bar under the legal age: $710
• Having an open container of alcohol in public: $116
• Fake ID: Ranges from $149 fine to jail time, depending on if the ID is fake or is someone else’s, and how it’s used.
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