WHAT'S INSIDE
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Entertainment + Student Life
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Food + Drink
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Editor's Note: Kent’s vote, Kent’s voice. With our annual Best of Kent issue, the goal is clear: We want to hear our readership speak up about the buzz of our city and university. This is why we opened up public voting for 33 different categories on topics ranging from mixed drinks (page 14, Best Cocktail) to a cappella singing (page 8, Best Student Organization). Though we always take Letters to the Editor and receive feedback on our content, this issue is a prime opportunity to truly allow Kent State students and residents to tell us what they believe is great about this area. We don’t take that mission lightly, and this year we added 14 new categories that helped better encompass the university. For the first time, we’re recognizing some of our top athletes and their performances — it’s no surprise which team earned the vote for Best Sports Moment (page 22). We also asked you to vote for the Best Guest Speaker and Best Festival (page 6), among other items on the ballot. Of course, we did keep some of our classic categories. The Best Place to Cure a Hangover (page 16) and the Best Place to Have Fun Under 21 (page 8) are both essential subjects, depending on your age. We hope you enjoy this year’s edition of the Best of Kent. Again, we anticipate hearing what you think about our categories because the point of this issue is to capture what Kent is about. — The Kent Stater Staff Reporting done by: Paige Brown Nick Buzzelli Kennedy Caldwell Hannah Coleman Madeline Crandall Rachel Duthie Eryn Gebacz Quaylyn Hairston Tyler Haughn Alex Kamczyc Scott Lendak Sarah Lorenz Payton Moore Samantha Ross Linda Stocum Erik Svensson Cover by:
Sports
Ryan Dunn
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Katie Barnes-Evans
PAGE 18 See extended Best of Kent content and past winners on
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Entertainment + Student Life LIVE MUSIC FIRST
The Kent Stage
The Kent Stage was founded in 2002 to host and provide a spot for the Kent State Folk Festival. Western Reserve Folk Arts Association has since made a name for the Kent Stage internationally. More than 2,000 musicians have performed at the Kent Stage, including Janis Ian, Bo Diddley and Machine Gun Kelly. Owner Tom Simpson said The Kent Stage has grown over the years, creating a solid sense of tradition in Kent. “Over the years (The Kent Stage) grew from an occasional folk music venue to an internationally known music venue,” Simpson said. “We have presented all genres of music and performances from members of the Rock Hall, dozens of Grammy winners, Academy Award winners, members of the Bluegrass Hall of Fame, Blues Hall of Fame, Bluegrass award winners, hip-hop acts, R&B (FIRST) A crowd pours out of The Kent Stage after an America concert on Saturday, April 8, 2017. Alyssa Keown / The Kent Stater
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Kesha
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acts and heavy metal acts from around the world.” Mazzi Drinkwater, a sophomore psychology major, said it’s important to have a significant music venue like The Kent Stage in a college town. “It means a lot to me because it means connecting with people in the community, even outside of campus. The Kent Stage brings a lot of people from out of town and creates diversity,” Drinkwater said. “It’s really cool having a big music venue within walking distance from where you live, too.” Simpson expressed his gratitude to be so well-known in the Northeast Ohio area. “It's always nice to be noticed in your hometown,” Simpson said. “Every day I receive at least a dozen requests from agents looking to book their act at The Kent Stage.”
Bar 145 + Water Street Tavern
PERFORMER SECOND
The 1975
THIRD
PARTYNEXTDOOR
When: Thursday, Sept. 29 Where: M.A.C. Center
Kesha and PARTYNEXTDOOR hit the stage Homecoming 2016 weekend in the M.A.C. Center. The performance was the first of the year for students and provided a great turnout. Despite coming on stage 45 minutes late, Kesha pumped up the crowd and premiered singles from her new band, Kesha and the Creepies, as a part of the their "F**k The World" tour. Taylor Sandy, a junior finance major, went to the show. “I thought Kesha was a pretty big name for Kent to bring here and play,” Sandy said. “It was cool because we knew a lot of the music she played because it’s been around for awhile now.” The essence of her new band gave a harder rock vibe to her set, even though she still played her classic songs, including "We R Who We R" and "Your Love is My Drug.” Kesha
was sure to engage the student body with compelling statements like, “All love is equal,” even adding, “I sure do love drugs,” throughout her performance. The Undergraduate Student Government paid Kesha $100,000 for the show. Julii Habony, a sophomore chem-
istry major, also enjoyed Kesha’s performance. “It was a great girl’s night out for me and my friends. We stood in line for almost two hours to ensure a good spot and it was really worth it,” Habony said. “Kesha was super fun and got the whole crowd to party with her.”
(FIRST) Kesha performs at the M.A.C. Center on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater (SECOND) Matthew Healy, lead singer of The 1975, performs in the M.A.C. Center at Kent State on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016. Alex Ledet / The Kent Stater (THIRD) PARTYNEXTDOOR performs at the M.A.C. Center on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
*FlashFest 2017, with headliner Rae Sremmurd, was held after voting. See coverage on KentWired.
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EVENT
FIRST
Homecoming
When: Saturday, Oct. 1
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Sex Week TEDx Kent State
FESTIVAL
With events ranging from the annual parade, concert and — of course — the football game, there was something for everyone during Homecoming Weekend. “No matter if you are 18 or 98 years old, it’s the one time of year everyone comes together to celebrate Kent State,” said Joy Wesoloski, homecoming committee chair and assistant director of Alumni Relations. Playing Kent State’s biggest rival, The University of Akron, and the attendance of Kent State alum and former Cleveland Browns player Josh Cribbs, could certainly account for the school spirit. The excitement, along with the fact that for the first time in years it did not rain on the day of homecoming, is what Wesoloski said made this event so popular. “It’s exciting to know that people enjoyed being a part of Kent State’s oldest tradition,” Wesoloski said. “This is one event that brings everyone on and around campus back together, including students, faculty, staff, alumni and the surrounding community.” Wesoloski said the planning for next year’s events and activities has already begun. The date for Homecoming 2017 has been set for Saturday, Oct. 14.
(FIRST) Kent State’s marching band marches past Depeyster Street into downtown Kent during the Homecoming Parade on Saturday, Oct 1, 2016. Alexander Wadley / The Kent Stater
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Bernie Sanders
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Kent Halloween
When: Saturday, Oct. 29 Where: Downtown Kent
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Art in the Park + Black Squirrel Festival
(FIRST) Friends meet outside the Kent Stage and enjoy the warm weather during the Kent Halloween festivities on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
GUEST SPEAKER
When: Saturday, Sept. 17 Where: Student Recreation and Wellness Center
If we do not act boldly and begin to transform our energy system, the bad situation of today will become worse in years to come.” SECOND THIRD
— Bernie Sanders
Hillary Clinton Taylor Schilling + Kate Mulgrew
(FIRST) Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders speaks to supporters at Kent State’s Student Recreation and Wellness Center on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016. Zachary Popik / The Kent Stater
Tri-Towers
The Centennial Courts was voted the second best hall on campus for offering bigger rooms and private bathrooms. Daniel Braden, a sophomore digital media production major, said he chose to live in Centennials Courts for more than just a big room. "There are such supportive RAs and everyone who lives in the Centen-
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There are 25 residence halls on campus, but only a few are considered Kent State's best. The residence hall voted as the best place to live on campus in 2017 is Tri-Towers, consisting of Leebrick, Wright and Koonce Halls. Tri-Towers recently had renovations and added a fitness center to the second floor of the Tri-
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Towers Rotunda. Tri-Towers also offers Rosie's — a 24-hour dining service spot and market — drop-in tutoring and community laundry. Susannah Hufford, the residence hall director of Korb and Leebrick, said the main purpose of her position is to give students a sense of community. She
The Province
The Province is located on Summit Street, making the complex known for its proximity to campus and downtown. It offers several amenities for its residents, including a swimming pool, fitness center, tanning bed and 24-hour emergency maintenance. With over 596 bed spaces and 246 units available, The Province is known as one of the most popular apartment complexes for offcampus living. Aside from its location to campus, the apartment complex’s leasing and marketing manager, Penny Rossi, thinks it’s popular because of the staff’s outstanding customer service skills and consideration for resident reviews. “We take our surveys and reviews very seriously,” Rossi said. “Listening to our residents' comments is so important to us because it gives us the opportunity to improve more and more every year.” The Province’s staff also encourages residents to get involved in their community. “We are so close to Kent State’s campus that it is important to us that we stay connected in terms of community and closeness,” Rossi said. “We are a part of a huge neighborhood in Kent, but when it comes down to it, Province is its own little neighborhood too.” For students like Mackenzie Husmann, a junior digital sciences major, finding a place that was close to campus and completely fur-
Centennial Courts
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said she is glad students rate the hall so highly. "It feels great," Hufford said. "For me, though, I always want to focus on that I want to do the very best that I can. I want our hall to be really inclusive, really welcoming, really make people feel at home."
nials is cool," Braden said. "I feel like we all talk to each other. Everyone on my floor is friends with each other." He said the bathrooms also make it easier to live in the dorms. "Being able to control what happens in the bathroom so it won't be gross in the morning is a plus," Braden said.
Stopher + Johnson Halls
Both halls are reserved for Honors College students who live on campus, have private bathrooms and are considered the quieter dorms. Mason Lee Branham, the residence hall director of Stopher and Johnson, said he strives to create a welcoming environment for students. "I want students to be able to come in to talk about anything," Branham said. "Anything from, 'Hey how you doing? How was spring break?' to 'Hey I'm having a problem, can I close this door?'" He said he wants to connect to his
residents as much as possible. "The most important aspect is the human aspect. How do you make another human feel like you are listening to them?" Branham said. "I leave my door open all the time." He hopes that people voted for Stopher and Johnson for the community that the hall creates. "If residents feel like they learned something from living here, not just sleeping here, but feel like they learned and gained and grew while they were here. Then I feel like we are doing what we are supposed to," Branham said.
(FIRST) Tri-Towers on Wednesday, April 5, 2017. Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater
APARTMENT
Campus Pointe SECOND 345 Flats
345 Flats is located within walking distance from downtown Kent on Depeyster Street. This five-story apartment building is new to Kent’s off-campus living atmosphere and was built in 2016. Leasing manager Lexie Baughman said 345 Flats is unique because of its newness to the Kent community. “What sets us apart from all the other complexes is being the newest one near Kent’s campus,” Baughman said. “The residents living here now are the first people to ever live here, so I think it is a unique asset to have as an apartment complex.”
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nished was important to her. “I initially chose to live at Province because of their location and amenities. But when I found out how eco-friendly Province was, I was sold,” Husmann said. “I appreciate their efforts of encouraging residents to recycle instead of just throwing their recyclables in the trash.”
(FIRST) The main lobby of The Province apartments in Kent on Tuesday, April 18, 2017. Eslah Attar / The Kent Stater
Eagle’s Landing
Eagle’s Landing is located directly across from Kent State’s campus. Property manager Christopher Miller said its prices, room sizes and 24-hour maintenance staff are just some of the assets Eagle’s Landing provides. “Something we take great pride in is making sure our residents are taken care of first,” Miller said. “I believe our staff is always on the ball when it comes to helping residents with any of their needs, no matter what time of day it is.” At Eagle’s Landing, all bedrooms are the same size, which makes it easy for residents to evenly split the rent. “Something really great about only having two bedrooms per apartment is that every resident has the same amount of space,” Miller said. “I think our room equality is what makes us different from every other apartment.”
BEST OF KENT APR. 27, 2017
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RESIDENCE HALL
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STUDENT ORGANIZATION FIRST
PLACE TO STUDY
The Kent Clarks
University Library
FIRST Claiming the top spot in Best of Kent’s first student organization category, The Kent Clarks is the university’s first premier contemporary a cappella group. Founded in 2011 by an original member of the Vanderbilt Variations, the group of singers are well-traveled throughout the United States, performing on the “TODAY Show” and former President Barack Obama. “This semester we have become so much closer as a group,” said Meghan Mormino, public relations representative for the organization. “The closeness helps us create even better performances and shows. Everyone in
the group is passionate about this.” Members have to audition to join the group and, if selected, will be a part of a huge family of singers and dancers. The organization is a mixture of people of all majors and organizations, a diverse culture that they pride themselves on. A cappella singing features a music specifically sung solo or by a group without musical accompaniment. It is commonly known as a “choir style” performance. Songs range from singing classical tunes to modern hits, like “Toxic” by Britney Spears and “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol.
(FIRST) The Kent Clarks sing at Blast Off in the Student Center on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016. Zachary Popik / The Kent Stater
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KSU Pokemon League K.I.N.K.
University Library
With 12 floors of space, comfortable seating and librarians ready to help in every subject, it is easy to see why the University Library is students' favorite place to study. “We are constantly looking for ways that we can improve our spaces, collections, services and programs, thereby to better support student success,” said James Bracken, dean of libraries. Ways to improve its space and bring students to the library include events such as Pizza for Your Thoughts, Student
Appreciation Day and Late Night at the Library. The idea for bean bag chairs, spill kits in case students make a mess eating, and exercise equipment on the fourth floor, all came from ideas students presented at Pizza for Your Thoughts. Bracken wants the library to be more than students' favorite place to study. “We also want to be regarded by students as the best place for them to connect with other students," he said.
(FIRST) Kelsey Verhoff and Nancy Storr study on the second floor of the University Library on Friday, April 8, 2017. Jana Life / The Kent Stater
Tree City Coffee & Pastry THIRD Kent Free Library PLACES TO HAVE FUN UNDER 21 Brewhouse Pub Kent Plaza Theatres
(FIRST) Eslah Attar / The Kent Stater
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(At Kent Plaza Theatres), checking everything at the door and being able to leave the worries behind and relax with friends at the movies — there's a nostalgic effect.” SECOND - TIE
— Dillon Oliver Assistant manager of Kent Plaza Theatres
Brewhouse Pub + Kent Lanes
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Food + Drink FIRST
Wild Goats Cafe
The most praise you'll hear about Wild Goats Cafe will be about its breakfast options. “We try to serve something you can’t get anywhere else,” said Charlie Ciborek, owner of the diner. “We offer classic breakfasts, but we also try to do a unique take on it.” Unique perfectly describes the breakfast at Wild Goats, located just across the river by the Kent Free Library. From a full page of options, you can choose from the “Southwest Benedict,” which includes chorizo, salsa, an English muffin and hollandaise sauce thrown together into a delicious and
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BREAKFAST
Wild Goats Cafe
unique take on the classic eggs Benedict. Or you could order the “Somethin’ Somethin’,” which is two pancakes layered together with peanut butter, blueberries and granola, topped with powdered sugar. But don’t just come for the food; if you want more of a family experience, free from loud music, then this place is perfect for you. Wild Goats also contributes a portion of its sales, every Monday night, to the Warren Majengo Foundation, a charity dedicated to providing help and other services to the orphaned children of Tanzania in Africa.
Tree City Coffee & Pastry Mike’s Place
(FIRST) Bryant Rogers, manager and chef at Wild Goats Cafe, prepares a breakfast platter on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. Alexander Wadley / The Kent Stater
COFFEE
Tree City Coffee & Pastry FIRST
Tree City Coffee & Pastry
Returning champion Tree City Coffee & Pastry, rooted in the heart of downtown Kent, offers a variety of coffee beverages, pastries and sandwiches. Every unique coffee drink starts with locally roasted coffee grounds. “Our espresso is the best in Kent for sure. So, our lattes are really popular,” said Andreas Vitone, Tree City employee. “We make our own chocolate sauce so our mocha is very popular. Our special drinks that we have seasonally are always really fun and delicious.” Vitone believes the convenience of being able to get food
and coffee in one place attracts students. Available beverages range from lattes and espresso, tea and fountain drinks, and frozen drinks like frappes. Vitone also believes attention to detail and the ability to handle large volumes of customers is what sets Tree City apart from surrounding local coffee shops. Fan favorites include the cheesecake, overnight oats and pastries. Customers can sit and enjoy a fresh slice of cheesecake next to the fireplace while surrounded by modern yet rustic charm and friendly employees.
(FIRST) A cup of coffee from Tree City Coffee and Pastry. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater
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Bent Tree Coffee Roasters Scribbles Coffee Co.
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Twitter: @OhioFusion
Facebook: facebook.com/ohiofusion
Website: ohiofusion.com
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DIETARY-FRIENDLY DINING FIRST
Fresco Mexican Grill & Salsa Bar
Fresco is not like other standard Mexican restaurants. From fresh ingredients to vegetarian and gluten-free options, Fresco emphasizes a wide variety of dietary options. “All of the chips are done gluten-free, even if people order them that way or not,” said T.J. Ingersoll, Fresco owner. Ingersoll cites the complimentary salsa bar as a distinguishing trait of Fresco. The salsa bar is included for every customer, no matter what entrée they order. “We have nine fresh homemade salsa; we do a seasonal, rotating salsa(s),” Ingersoll said. “That is what separates us
FIRST
the most.” Being a restaurant that specializes in Mexican-oriented food, vegetarian options usually do not play a significant role. This is where Fresco differs, as it provides vegetarian and vegan options for its customers. Ingersoll said instead of meat, they substitute rice or beans. “A lot of people don’t think we have vegan and vegetarian options,” Ingersoll said. “Everything on the menu can be prepared vegetarian or vegan, except for the tortilla soup because it has chicken in it.”
DELIVERY
Jimmy John’s
Speedy delivery, fresh food and a fun atmosphere helped Jimmy John’s become the winner. Open until 4 a.m., the restaurant attracts party-goers on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Speed is what sets it apart from other delivery options in the Kent area. “It’s convenient,” said Evan Park, the
SECOND - TIE (FIRST) Co-workers (left to right) Amari Thomas, Samantha Zink and Jennifer Kurkey, from the Kent State Center for Alumni Engagement, enjoy their lunch in Fresco on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. Christina Kenney / The Kent Stater
SECOND
Grazers
(SECOND) Stacey Lasher holds a rice bowl with assorted vegetables in the GRAZER’s kitchen in downtown Kent on Saturday, April 17, 2016. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
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(THIRD) Erie Street Kitchen’s storefront in downtown Kent on Monday, April 24, 2017. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
Pita Pit
Euro Gyro
The hidden gem of downtown Kent is filled with nothing but fun times, loud rock music and great food. Euro Gyro offers a diverse variety of bar food, alcoholic beverages and people. The location sports a full bar and is open to everyone, especially those who are hungry. Euro Gyro’s menu is full of greasy food perfect to be delivered right to your doorstep. “It’s a good location ... and it’s one of the few locations you can pick up food after 3 a.m.,” said employee William King.
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Erie Street Kitchen
Kent location manager. “Generally, we can have your food out to you in 20 minutes to a half hour.” Jimmy John’s offers a variety of allnatural, fresh-cut deli meat sandwiches, like the “Slim 1” or ”Turkey Tom.” Customers can pair their sandwiches with a bag of chips, a cookie or a pickle.
Hungry Howie’s
Hungry Howie’s is for Kent’s go-to for late-night pizza delivery. Delivering until 4 a.m., students can have fresh pizza delivered right to their dorm or apartment. Customers can add a side of Howie Bread or customize their pizza to have a buttery garlic
crust, all while having it conveniently delivered in the late hours. “Hungry Howie’s never disappoints,” said Rachel Anthony, a sophomore middle childhood education major. “They have many options, good prices and always good service.”
(FIRST) The Jimmy John’s store front in Kent on Sunday, April 23, 2017. Paige Margulies / The Kent Stater (SECOND TOP) Euro Gyro. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater (SECOND BOTTOM) A Hungry Howie’s delivery box in their Kent location on Monday, April 24, 2017. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
Twisted Meltz
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Twisted Meltz Franklin Square Deli
BEST OF KENT APR. 27, 2017
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SANDWICH
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(SECOND) A New Yorker sandwich from Franklin Square Deli in Kent on Saturday, April 8, 2017. Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater
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(THIRD) Isabel Jewell of Ravenna wraps a sandwich at Jimmy John’s in Kent on Monday, April 24, 2017. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
(FIRST) Twisted Meltz’s most popular sandwich “The Harrison” on Monday, April 24, 2017. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater
BURGER
FIRST
Jimmy John’s
PIZZA
Bar 145
Ray’s Place
Guy’s Pizza
(FIRST) The beginnings of a new pizza at Lucci’s in Kent on Friday, April 14, 2017. Aaron Self / The Kent Stater
(FIRST) A burger from Ray’s Place. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater
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Five Guys Bar 145
FIRST SECOND THIRD
Lucci’s Place Pizza Fire Guy’s Pizza
ON-CAMPUS DINING
BAR
FIRST
Ray’s Place
Kent State students and community members know Ray’s Place is a favorite for signature drinks and bar specials. Owner and manager of Ray’s Place Charlie Thomas said their success is due to the atmosphere and employees they have. Ray’s Place regularly participates in holidays and campus events such as St. Patrick’s Day and Main Street Kent OktoberFest. Thomas changes the drink selection often to please customers throughout the seasons. Coffee drinks are served more in the winter and frozen drinks
in the summer. “We serve drinks students like, especially new ones students created or picked up over spring break and other holidays,” Thomas said. Ray’s Place has a wellknown variety of imported beer and house drafts. Between the two-floor Franklin Avenue establishment, draft lists change monthly due to its selection of 64 taps. “We have the largest selection of draft and bottle beer in Kent,” Thomas said. “Our bartenders can please all types of palates.”
RESTAURANT FIRST
Ray’s Place
Ray’s Place
(FIRST) A crowd occupies the first floor of Ray’s Place in downtown Kent on Saturday, April 8, 2017. Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater
Water Street Tavern THIRD Zephyr Pub Water Street Tavern
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Fork in the Road
Among 13 unique dining options on campus, the number one place to eat on campus goes to the Fork in the Road food truck. The most notable food options at this traveling truck are the Summit Street Burger, Chef Christian's creation and Chef Joel's homemade ketchup. With more than just burgers and fries on the go, Fork in the Road offers a pit stop for students to grab food right outside their class between busy schedules. "I like that the food is hot and
fresh," said Anna Mika, a junior anthropology major. "The mac and cheese they have never failed to make my day a thousand times better." Fork in the Road travels between different locations on campus, so no matter where students’ classes are, they are able to catch the truck at least once. "Last semester I had a class in the math building and then walked all the way to Lowery Hall," Mika said. "I would see the truck along the way most days."
(FIRST) Fork in the Road is Kent State’s food truck, serving anything from burgers and fries to homemade mac and cheese on Friday, April 7, 2017. Kayla McMillen / Kent Stater
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Quaker Steak & Lube Eastway Cafe
Quaker Steak & Lube
DRUNK FOOD FIRST
Euro Gyro
COCKTAIL FIRST
Long Island Iced Tea – Ray’s Place SECOND Fishbowl - Water Long Island Iced Tea - Ray’s Place Street Tavern
Ray’s Place, local restaurant and bar, has been a Kent staple since 1937. Known for its sweet potato fries, wings and draft beer, owner Charlie Thomas attributes their success to the friendly environment, employees and diverse menu they have. “We sell great products and drinks, and our customers know that,” Thomas said. “We just really connect with our guests and they feel comfortable.” Thomas said the diversity of the restaurant makes them stand apart
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(FIRST) A gyro from Euro Gyro. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater
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Guy’s Pizza Sheetz
Euro Gyro
(FIRST) A Long Island Iced Tea from Ray’s Place. Matt Baker / The Kent Stater (SECOND) A Fish Bowl from Water Street Tavern. Matt Baker / The Kent Stater (THIRD) The Incredible Hulk from The Loft. Matt Baker / The Kent Stater
from other Kent favorites. Ray’s Place gets a wide variety of customers, ranging from daytime families and business people to college students at night. After changing the menu last year, Thomas saw positive reactions. He added new sandwiches, appetizers, salads and entrees to the menu, but never took away customer favorites. “We are proud to serve the Kent community with comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere," Thomas said.
Bricco + Mike’s Place
The Incredible Hulk – The Loft (FIRST) A crowd at the second floor of Ray’s Place in Kent on Saturday, April 8, 2017. Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater (SECOND-LEFT) People enjoy dinner at Bricco in Kent on Thursday, April 6, 2017. Angelo Angel / The Kent Stater (SECOND-RIGHT) Mike’s Place, known for its “Star Wars” paraphernalia and other quirky decorations. Alyssa Keown / The Kent Stater
15 BEST OF KENT APR. 27, 2017
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BARTENDER SECOND
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FIRST
Mike Haney — Water Street Tavern Savannah Freese – Water Street Tavern
Savannah Freese – Water Street Tavern
INTERNATIONAL FOOD Taco Tontos
FIRST
Joel McAdams — Zephyr Pub
Taco Tontos
(FIRST) Joel McAdams on Wednesday, April 19, 2016. McAdams has bartended at the Zephyr Pub in downtown Kent, for the last 16 years. Deidre Pulley / The Kent Stater
PLACE TO TAKE PARENTS
Ray’s Place FIRST Ray’s Place
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Bricco Mike’s Place
PLACE TO CURE A HANGOVER
Mike’s Place
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Laziza Newdle Bar
Mike’s Place
You wake up after a long night of drinking and cutting it loose a night on the town with your friends. Your head is pounding like a drum, you can vaguely remember what happened and, worst of all, you’re hungry. Established in 1987, the family-owned restaurant has a menu of over 100 dishes to choose from that’ll help knock out even the nastiest hangover. The portions of food are big enough to fill you up and leave extra food for later. Try the “Mommy I Have A Tummy Ache & Should Have Eaten At Home,” a monstrous sandwich stacked with all of your favorite breakfast foods. The restaurant also has a lively atmosphere. It may look like your average diner on the outside, but once you go in you’ll immediately be greeted by a giant pirate ship pointed right at you, setting the mood for a fun, laid-back mood.
(FIRST) Taco Tontos in downtown Kent on Monday, April 24, 2017. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
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SECOND (FIRST) Patrons enjoy breakfast at Mike’s Place in downtown Kent on Sunday, April 23, 2017. Paige Margulies / The Kent Stater
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Wild Goats Cafe Taco Tontos
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Insomnia Cookies
DESSERT
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Insomnia Cookies SECOND Popped!
Fresh cookies delivered to your doorstep in the middle of the night sounds like a dream come true. Insomnia Cookies makes that dream possible for the Kent community. Offering 12 different types of cookies, Insomnia delivers cookies fresh out of the oven to your dorm or apartment until 2:45 a.m. They also offer ice cream, cookie sandwiches and cookie cakes. If the night is still young, customers are more than welcome to stop and smell the cookies instore on Water Street until 3 a.m. “Most of our deliveries go over to campus, especially late at night after the bars start closing,” said Summer Gilmore, an employee. “That’s when all of our deliveries start picking up.” Favorites among Kent State students include the s'mores and peanut butter cup cookies. But, the classic chocolate chunk always remains a staple. (FIRST) Insomnia Cookies’ selection on Saturday, April 22, 2017. Eslah Attar / The Kent Stater (SECOND) The Firehouse Caramel Popcorn at Popped! in downtown Kent on Monday, April 24, 2017. Eslah Attar / The Kent Stater (THIRD) A selection of donuts from downtown Kent’s Peace, Love, & Little Donuts on Monday, April 24, 2017. Eslah Attar / The Kent Stater
THIRD
Peace, Love & Little Donuts
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Sports FIRST
Basketball
MEN’S TEAM
When the men’s basketball team was in the midst of its four game losing streak in early January, the prospects of advancing past the first round of the Mid-American Conference’s Tournament looked bleak, especially considering the Flashes committed an average of 18 turnovers during that span. But something clicked after the first 20 minutes of play in a home game against Miami (OH) on Feb. 14. Trailing the Redhawks — who finished the season last in the MAC East — by five at halftime, senior walk-on Jon Fleming gave his teammates an effective pep talk between halves that coach Rob Senderoff credited with changing the overall trajectory of the season. “Jon Fleming at halftime, in my opinion, what he said to our guys really changed how they came out in the next game and from that point forward,” Senderoff said on Feb. 25. "That, to me, was a turning point.” Following Fleming’s momentum-altering speech, Kent State went on to win five of its last six regular season games. They outlasted Central Michigan and its dynamic backcourt of Marcus Keene and Braylon Rayson, 116-106, in overtime in what turned out to be the highest-scoring game in MAC Tournament history. Then, the Flashes grinded out a close win over Buffalo in the quarterfinals, used Jaylin Walker’s floater in the lane to sink Ohio University before knocking off No. 1 Akron by five to give the program its first MAC Tournament title in nine years. When it was all said and done, Kent State won four postseason games in six days to secure the league’s lone bid to the NCAA Tournament, where the season eventually ended via a 97-80 loss to UCLA. (TOP) Kent State junior guard Desmond Ridenour rings the victory bell after defeating Hiram 111-55 at the M.A.C. Center on Friday, Nov. 18, 2016. Aaron Self / The Kent Stater (BOTTOM LEFT) Kent State senior guard Deon Edwin dunks against UCLA during the first round of the NCAA Tournament at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on Friday, March 17, 2017. Kent State lost 97-80. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater (BOTTOM RIGHT) Members of the Kent State men’s basketball team help sophomore guard Jaylin Walker after he was fouled hard under the basket against Central Michigan at the M.A.C. Center on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Kent State lost 105-98 in overtime. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
SECOND THIRD
Baseball Football
Men’s Basketball Stats – 22 - 14 record – 77 points per game – 42.8 field goal percentage – 32.0 three-point percentage – 40.3 rebounds per game – 12.5 assists per game
WOMEN’S TEAM FIRST
Basketball
In 2015-2016, the Kent State women’s basketball team stumbled to a 6-23 finish before bowing out in the first round of the Mid-American Conference Tournament. This led to the team letting go of former coach Danielle O’Banion and signing Indiana assistant Todd Starkey as new coach. Starkey came into an interesting situation, as he was inheriting a team that was filled with upperclassmen talent. Starkey then helped lead one of the biggest comebacks in college basketball, as the Flashes went 19-13 this past season, a record that was
Women’s Basketball Stats – 19 - 13 record – 71 points per game – 39.7 field goal percentage – 32.2 three-point percentage – 39.4 rebounds per game – 13.3 assists per game
SECOND THIRD
Gymnastics Volleyball
(TOP) Kent State sophomore guard Alexa Golden dribbles past the Miami defense at the M.A.C. Center on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017. Kent State won 84-66. Jana Life / The Kent Stater (MIDDLE) Redshirt freshman guard Megan Carter kicks the ball out to a teammate against Akron at James A. Rhodes Arena on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017. Kent State won 72-58. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater (BOTTOM RIGHT) Kent State senior forward McKenna Stephens talks to her team during a timeout in the second half against Toledo during the quarter-finals of the MAC Tournament at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland on Wednesday, March 8, 2017. Kent State lost 67-63. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
good enough not only for a MAC East title, but also enough to earn a bye to Cleveland in the MAC Tournament, where they eventually lost to Toledo. The Flashes season didn’t end there, however, as the team earned a berth in the WNIT, where they lost to Michigan. “I tell my players that every team writes its own story, and obviously, we were able to write an incredible story this year,” Starkey said. “So, this season will stand on its own as for what we did with this group.” The team was led by senior guard
Larissa Lurken, who had a career resurgence under Starkey. The senior finished the year averaging 23.5 points per game. She also broke multiple Kent State and national records throughout the season. The Flashes season was punctuated by sweeping their two biggest rivals in Akron and Ohio. Ohio came into the year as the preseason favorites to win the MAC East, and the Flashes' 68-65 win over the Bobcats on Jan. 14 in Athens served as the game that jumpstarted the season.
BEST OF KENT APR. 27, 2017
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FEMALE ATHLETE FIRST
MALE ATHLETE
Larissa Lurken - Basketball
Kent State senior Larissa Lurken came into her senior season at a crossroads. She put together a solid first three years in her time at Kent State, as she averaged a little over 11 points in those games. However, that individual success didn’t garner success on the court, as the team only managed to win 11 games in those three years. That all changed this past season, however, as the senior only averaged 23.5 points per game and scored 752 total points in the season, which is a new school record. Lurken scored her 1,000 career-point this season and also set the mark for most three-pointers made in a career at Kent State, which led to her pass being named MAC Player of the Year. “I can’t say enough good things about what Larissa was able to do; she had one
of the best seasons in [the] nation,” coach Todd Starkey said. “Just the fact that she was able to break a 35-year-old NCAA record … It’s arguably the best season that any women’s player has had in the history of Kent State. It’s really kind of a storybook season, and I’m so thrilled for her.” Lurken, a nursing major, also made her mark in the classroom, as she was one of five Flashes to be named Academic All-MAC. “At the same time, she was also an academic All-American in nursing at the same time of doing all those things on the court,” Starkey said. “It can’t be overstated enough that she was able to have such an epic season on the court, but also be an academic All-American in nursing off the court.”
FIRST
Jimmy Hall – Basketball
It’d be difficult to ignore Jimmy Hall’s impact on the Kent State men’s basketball team simply by looking at his career stat line. Though he only played three seasons with the Flashes, sitting out one year after transferring from Hofstra in 2013, Hall finished his career as the program’s third-leading scorer with 1,683 points — 683 of which were recorded during the 2016-17 campaign. He finished his senior season averaging 19 points and 10.6 rebounds per game and recorded 23 double-doubles in 36 contests. He was named an All-MAC First Team performer for the third consecutive year and also earned a spot on the National Association of Basketball Coaches All-District team. And Hall, the catalyst of Kent State’s (TOP) Kent State senior guard Larissa Lurken drives on Toledo freshman guard Mariella Santucci during the quarter-finals of the MAC Tournament at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland on Wednesday, March 8, 2017. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
run to the NCAA Tournament, recorded 118 points in five postseason games this season en route to being the only player in program history to top 1,600 points and 800 rebounds in a career. “It means everything to me, my senior season. It’s an unbelievable way, but I would have never imagined it, to go out like this,” Hall said at Kent State’s official Selection Sunday watch party at Water Street Tavern on March 12. It’s likely that the Brooklyn, New York, native will one day have a banner with his name on it hanging from the rafters of the M.A.C. Center, alongside former greats Trevor Huffman, Antonio Gates and Demetric Shaw. Until then, he’s just looking to continue his basketball career at the professional level.
(TOP) Kent State senior forward Jimmy Hall drives against Buffalo redshirt senior forward Raheem Johnson during the quarter-finals of the MAC Tournament at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. Kent State won, 68-65. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
Larissa Lurken Stats
Jimmy Hall Stats
– 752 points this season
– 2.8 assists per game
– 683 points this season
– 2.5 assists per game
– 23.5 points per game
– 42 Blocks
– 19 points per game
– 48 blocks
– 6.7 rebounds per game
– 1,663 career points
– 10.6 rebounds per game
– 1,683 career points
SECOND THIRD
Rachel Stypinski – Gymnastics Kelsey Bittinger – Volleyball
SECOND THIRD
Jaylin Walker – Basketball Nick Holley – Football
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COACH
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FIRST
Rob Senderoff – Men’s Basketball
The journey that led Rob Senderoff to his first MAC Tournament championship wasn’t the typical route most college coaches take. After bouncing between mid-major programs early in his career before landing at Kent State the first time around, and eventually, as an assistant on Kelvin Sampson’s staff at Indiana, Senderoff was linked to the Hoosiers phone call scandal involving recruits that ultimately resulted in a 30-month show-cause penalty from the NCAA. When he left Indiana, though, not many schools were willing to take a chance on him. But former Kent State athletic director Laing Kennedy decided to hire him back as the program’s associate head coach in 2008. And three years later, he was promoted to head coach by current athletic director Joel Nielsen after Geno Ford left to take over the post at Bradley University.
SECOND Coach Rob Senderoff instructs his bench against UCLA during the NCAA Tournament in Sacramento, California on Friday, March 17, 2017. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
THIRD
Although Senderoff was a part of the NCAA Tournament as a graduate assistant at Miami (OH) in 1997 and went twice as an assistant at Kent State, 2017 marked the first he qualified for it in his six seasons as a head coach. He waited a long time to return to make his return to the NCAA Tournament. The long hours he spends in the gym and on the recruiting trail hasn’t been easy for his wife and two young daughters. But it’s this type of personal support that made the magical run possible. “These guys deserve all the credit,” Senderoff said, pointing to Jimmy Hall, Jaylin Walker and Jon Fleming, following the MAC title game. “But you asked about the personal thing, I mean my family. I was happy for them because this isn't easy for a family. … I just felt happy for them and really grateful to the people at Kent State who gave me this opportunity to lead the program.”
Todd Starkey – Women’s Basketball Kathleen Wiler – Field Hockey
SPORTS MOMENT FIRST
Men’s basketball wins MAC Championship over rival Akron
When it was all over, after he tossed the ball upward in celebration and shared a short, yet triumphant embrace with his teammates, Jimmy Hall navigated his way to the far end of the court, past a group of stunned Akron fans, and toward Quicken Loans Arena’s four-foot high hockey boards that served as the divider separating the court from the stands. At the same time, Hall’s mother, wearing a white T-shirt that had “Hall, J.R.” printed across the back, left her seat in the third row, rushed to the boards and held her son while she repeated, “You’re a man. God got you, stand tall.” During that time, Kent State fans were screaming Hall’s name in excitement, chanting “MVP” and taking photos of him and his mother. In that moment, though, none of that mattered. What did, however, was that he was in the company of his mother on the MAC's largest stage.
“I can’t even describe it. It’s been a great journey, just blessed to be in this position,” Hall said with a smile during the postgame press conference on March 11. “All my emotions, just went when I seen my mom, how much she cares for me, how she comes out to every game.” The championship run, though, held different meaning for the various members of the Kent State community. For some, it signified an event that faculty, staff and the student body could use to rally around to strengthen their bond. And for others, it meant that the university would once again be represented on a national stage. But regardless, whenever the confetti began falling from the rafters of Quicken Loans arena shortly after the final horn sounded on that Saturday evening in Cleveland, a euphoric feeling set in for the Kent State faithfully in attendance and those who watched the excitement unfold on ESPN2.
(RIGHT) The Kent State men’s basketball team holds the MAC Championship trophy after beating Akron 7065 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland on Saturday, March 11, 2017. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
SECOND
THIRD
Men’s basketball national anthem unity statement Holly Speers sets NCAA record with five consecutive home runs
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Our Favorite Photos
Looking back at the best moments caught through the lenses of our photography staff.
Kent State President Beverly Warren reads Dr. Suess’s “The Cat in the Hat” to kids at the Kent State Bookstore on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017. Alyssa Keown / The Kent Stater
Claire Bobel, a political science major, leads a group of protesters in a walk-out demonstration against the recently appointed Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2017. Zachary Popik / The Kent Stater
Freshman wide receiver Kavious Price is dragged to the ground during the Wagon Wheel Challenge on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. Kent State lost to Akron in the final minutes, 31-27. Clint Datchuk / The Kent Stater
Kassidy Brillhart and Ann Marie Elaban win the 13th annual Roaring 20s themed Rock the Runway show on Saturday, March 4, 2017. The designers won first place for their collection “Living Lindy” and received half off their tuition. Alyssa Keown / The Kent Stater
The women’s soccer team celebrates after its first goal in the MAC Championship game against Northern Illinois University. The Flashes would go on to win the championship 1-0 for Kent State’s first ever women’s soccer championship win. Aaron Self / The Kent Stater
The men’s basketball team reacts to their seeding in the NCAA Tournament at Water Street Tavern in Kent on Sunday, March 12, 2017. Nate Manley / The Kent Stater
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CLASSIFIEDS CSL Plasma EARN UP TO $400 IN A MONTH BY DONATING PLASMA / 1600 S. Water St Kent, OH / 330552-5050 / cslplasma.com Seeking part-time/full-time nanny for 2 children this summer starting May 30. Minimum of 20 hours/week and up to 35/40 hours some weeks. Hours between 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Schedule provided Friday prior to upcoming week. Pay based on experience. Email tbongior@kent.edu to inquire.
Fastenal: Since 1967, Fastenal has grown from a small-town fastener shop into a multibillion dollar global enterprise. The secret to our success? Hire great people, give them great support and encourage them to reach their full potential in pursuit of our common goal: Growth Through Customer Service. Now hiring for part-time Warehouse/Distribution Positions. Apply online at Fastenal.com then click on Careers and search Distribution Center, Akron, OH Barrington Golf Club now hiring part-time restaurant servers, banquet servers, line cooks, kitchen, pantry, and dishwashers. Meals and uniforms provided, competitive starting wages. Apply in person 350 N. Aurora Rd. Aurora. EOE Don’t get stuck inside this summer! Established company now hiring for end of semester and summer break. Fun atmosphere, easy work! Afternoon and evening hours available. $12+/hr. Cash paid daily! Cuyahoga Falls 330-926-0499 Special Moments Catering in Streetsboro is now hiring part-time Event Associates for immediate employment. Competitive wages beginning at $11 per hour and up. Uniforms provided. No experience necessary. Requires weekend shifts. Call 330-626-0595 or e-mail resume to Steve@SpecialMomentsCatering.com to apply. Painter needed near Kent area Part time/Full time Own transportation needed Contact Jeff 440.223.5145
We are looking for kitchen help, someone with knowledge of line cooking, broiler and fryer experience. Heavy volume, great atmosphere, apply within 135 Franklin Ave. Kent, Ohio We are looking for kitchen help, someone with knowledge of line cooking, broiler and fryer experience. Heavy volume, great atmosphere, apply within 135 Franklin Ave. Kent, Ohio
For information about placing a Display ad please call our offices at 330-672-2586 or visit us at 205 Franklin Hall, Kent State University. Our office hours are from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
www.KentWired.com
NOW RENTING FOR FALL! Studio Apartments $495-525 1 bedroom units $625 2 bedroom units $750 Fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, very close to KSU, quiet community, 330-6783785
Female home owner has room to rent in Kent. 15 minute walk to campus. $350/month includes utilities and wifi. 330-2214317
HOUSES FOR FALL 2017-2018 3, 4, 5, 8, & 9 bedrooms per house 330-547-1212
UNPLANNED PREGNANCY? Are you looking for a wonderful home and future for your child? We have been looking to share our love and lives with a child. Perhaps we are looking for each other. Kent State Graduate Please call 1-888-34-ADOPT code: 91704
Immediate Openings: Nuevo Sol Tanning is now hiring. Flexible part time night and weekend hours. Minutes from KSU. Apply in person 1632 Norton Road, Stow or email your resume to jobopeningnst@gmail. com Interviewing now.
A spacious three-bedroom duplex and a four-bedroom house, both close to campus available for Fall 2017. Call Dana at 330-687-7315
Seeking highly motivated individuals to join the Kent State Student Media Sales Team. Position is 15 hours per week and starts Fall 2017 semester. All majors accepted, must be a KSU student. Email tbongior@kent.edu for an application before Friday, April
5 bedrooms University Townhomes, all utilities included, free cable and internet. Price starting at $420/month. Groups of 5 or partial groups welcome. 440-336-6761
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All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” State and local laws forbid discrimination based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. If you feel you have been wrongfully denied housing or discriminated against, call the FHAA at 330-253-2450 for more information. LEASING FOR FALL 2017 Spacious 3,4,&5 bedrooms with 2-3 full baths. Great condition, A/C, washer/dryer, dishwasher, deck, garage. 330-808-4045
Classified ads can be placed by fax at (330) 672-4880, over the phone at (330) 672-2586 or by e-mail at ads@ksustudentmedia.com. If you fax or e-mail an ad, please be sure to include run dates, payment info and a way for us to contact you.
Kent 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Air, appliances, carpet, heat and water paid. No pets or Section 8. $660 and $900. 330-677-5577
Single rooms available NOW. Prices range from $345 to $395 pr month. Call for addresses 330-678-3047 Single rooms available August 2017. Prices range from $385 to $415 on our 10 pay plan. Includes ALL utilities except phone & cable. Call 330-6783047 2 bdrm duplex available August 2017. $474.00 pr rm. Includes Gas & Trash. W&D hookups, hardwood floors, nice porch, very cute. Call 330-678-3047 Large Efficiency available for August 2017. Lots of storage, All utilities included except phone & cable. Call 330-678-3047 Meloy Road 4 bedroom duplexes for rent 17-18 school year. PET FRIENDLY. $325 per bedroom per month ($1300 for entire unit per month) 12 month lease. Available early August. mpoh-rentals to apply on line, or call/text Pat at 330554-1988 KENT - Across KSU, Quiet Large Lux 2bd 1-car garage $695 plus util 330-628-0447 2 BR, 1.5 bath, close to campus $850 + electric per month www.oakhavenkent.com or 330-957-3083
SUDOKU
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