I have seen DV filmmakers in crowds running around with a black bar that is attached to the base of the camera. They hold the bar and use it to prop up their cameras above crowds. Is there a name for this bar? Or is it just part of a tripod?

Might it be a monopod? (ex: Gitzo | G1564 Studex Monopod | G1564 | B&H Photo Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/170859-REG/Gitzo_G1564_G1564_Studex_Monopod.html))