DeKalb establishments to share in Homecoming celebration

While Huskie fans anxiously await the start of Saturday afternoon’s Homecoming game, they can rest assured that they will not have to fritter about what to do before game time.

Virtually all the bars in the vicinity of NIU will be having the traditional Homecoming bloody mary cocktails for students, alumni, faculty and friends who want to relish in a spicy drink selection rather than beer.

American Exchange is one of these bars. Manager Mike Rybinski said the doors will open at 8 a.m. Saturday.

He said they will have plenty of bloody marys and condiments in addition to their usual food and beverage items.

Bob Daniels, owner of Otto’s, said his establishment will open its doors bright and early at 6 a.m. Homecoming morning.

Otto’s will be featuring a band, Hairball Willy, at that time, he said.

Other bars are also sharing Daniels’ early opening philosophy.

According to an employee of McCabe’s, the bar will open at 6 a.m.

The Jungle and Paradise Club are getting two extra hours of rest Saturday morning, and are opening their doors at noon.

Mark Mathews, owner of The Jungle, said they will have good music and possibly a disc jockey from B96.

He said in addition to his early Saturday hours, doors will open at 3 p.m. on Friday for those zealous fans wanting to get a very early start on the weekend.

“We expect a big crowd like always,” Mathews said.

Chris Bonner, manager of Paradise Club, said the bar will open at noon and will run 32-ounce draft beer specials all day.

He also said they will have a DJ.

Virtually all bar owners agree they are expecting a large crowd this weekend, especially Saturday.

Considering game time is at 1:05 Saturday, Huskie fans should not have a problem finding something to do before kickoff.