Got somewhere to go and need a ride that demands a little more attention than a regular limousine? Why not bring in the funk … bus, that is.

The Funkbus is a 1969 red and white checkered limousine furnished with two TV’s, a stereo and VCR.

Owner Brian Tiffany was inspired to start his own service while working for a Des Moines limousine company three years ago.

“I was thinking more of the standard line of limo, but when I saw this in the paper I couldn’t resist,” Tiffany said.

The six passenger limo’s interior is coated with two-toned blue carpet, and has lots of speakers constantly playing funk to keep you in the mood.

Tiffany said he’ll cater to anything from bachelor parties to people who just want rides from the airport. But, he said “There’s nothing wrong with hauling a busload of beautiful women around for the night.”

The cost of taking a fantastic voyage in the Funkbus is $50 per hour and $100 for 2 1/2 hours with a one hour minimum.

Tiffany, who also works part-time for Iowa State’s Agronomy department, said, “Right now I’m making enough for the limo to pay for itself, but things are picking up.”

Tiffany said it is a good idea to call at least a day in advance to ensure service. He said he doesn’t want to be thought of as a taxi service or substitute for bad weather.

“Some people call on bad days and wonder if I can come pick them up, but if it’s not safe enough for you to drive, it’s not safe enough for me,” he said.

Tiffany said someday he’d like to have another bus and driver for larger parties, but right now he’s going to save money and refurbish the limo’s interior.

“Everything costs about twice as much as you’d think, and when retailers find out you’re a business rather than a person, they’ll charge you a lot more,” he said.

Other than expenses, Tiffany said the business has been problem-free — and he’s even met some celebrities.

“I picked up the group War after they played at The Maintenance Shop a year-and-a-half ago,” Tiffany said. “I gave them a lift and we hung out for a while.”

To make reservations on the Funkbus, call 292-LIMO.