Best of Murray A special publication of
The Murray State News
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Best of Murray
The News April 19, 2013
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From the Editor Community is a concept we, as students, often fail to understand and respect. Sometimes, in the busy shuffle of a college lifestyle, students forget to appreciate the true, unique character of the Murray community. They tend to think of Murray State as a separate entity from the city. The support from within the city for this University is unlike any other. Over the last school year, we have seen incredible achievements, and horrible tragedies. We have pulled from the depths of our character; we have joined hands and sung praises. None of this would be possible without the incredibly close network of students we have or the supportive citizens of Murray. The Murray State News is dedicated to reminding students of the many reasons they should smile when they
come over the hill on U.S. Highway 641 and see Roy Stewart Stadium. Murray is truly a comm u n i t y proud of its Lexy Gross s t u d e n t s , to Editor-in-Chief proud smile and say, “We are Racers.� Residents look upon this University as a true blessing. They cry at senior nights; they cheer at graduations. It is time for the University to show appreciation for the city of Murray. It is time to look back at Murray and recognize that we would not have some of our greatest traditions, some of our best memories, without this western Kentucky town.
Table of Contents
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4 Best: pizza, coffee, Asian food 5 Best: breakfast, food to cure a hang-
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over, sandwich 7 Best: bookstore, healthcare provider 8 Best: place to take a nap, place to study, public restroom 9 Best: bar, packaged alcohol store, live music 11 Best: place to live off campus, Mexican food, Greek organization 12 Best: clothing store, place to get your hair cut, place to take a date 13 Best: place to live on campus, place to worship 14 Best: ice cream/frozen yogurt, campus tradition 16 Best: faculty member, student athlete, staff member
Check out our new website at shopgate28.com
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BEST PIZZA Matt B’s Main Street Pizza By Carly Besser
Kate Russell/The News
Matt Bartholomey prepares a breadstick for one of his customers, many of which are students.
This is the seventh straight year Matt B’s Main Street Pizza was chosen as the best place to get pizza in town. Matt B’s was started by Murray State alumnus Matt Bartholomey who said he wanted to try something the city had never seen before. “There are plenty of buffets and delivery joints here, so I tried to do my own thing,” he said. “We envisioned a place where college kids can get a slice on the go, so we did our best to find a good location close to campus to make it more convenient for the kids.” Bartholomey said he figured the majority of his customers would be students. “We’re always honored and we started out hop-
BEST ASIAN FOOD August Moon By Laura Kovarik Lights reflect off of the gleaming gold railings that line the buffets at the restaurant. Preparing to open for the day, servers and cooks alike diligently work to prepare meals and ingredients for customers. August Moon’s ambiance and authentic-styled architecture transports restaurantgoers to Asia. Originally from Malaysia, August Moon’s owner Daniel Yong brings the flare and flavor of a wide variety of Asian cuisine to Murray. After working under a famous Taiwanese chef throughout college, Yong’s love of food turned into a business after graduating. He said it had always been a dream of his to own his own restaurant. A family-oriented restaurant and business, Yong
chose Murray as a place to begin his restaurant because his wife was in nursing school at Murray State. Yong said the wide variety, taste and quality of food are what set his restaurant apart from the rest. He said the business gets the majority of its produce and vegetables from local farmers. In addition to supporting local farmers, the restaurant is also active in the community through sponsorship of a wide variety of service programs, fundraisers and charities throughout the area. “Quality is always important to us; we buy fresh produce from local farmers,” Yong said. “The health of our customers is also very important: we cook all of our vegetables and use minimal oil in our stir-fry to create delicious and nutritious meals.” In an effort to further accommodate customers, the
staff has also been rotating the wide selection of menu items. The chefs have been working on creating new dishes and also keeping the popular dishes in circulation. “Asian cuisine is so flavorful, tasteful and you can stir-fry,” Yong said. “You can use your imagination and create essentially anything you want. I think what makes August Moon special is the food. A lot of our dishes are unique and not available anywhere in other restaurants.” Yong said he thinks the taste of the food is what brings returning customers back and new customers in. With an abundant menu, reasonably priced food and excellent service August Moon will undoubtedly remain a household restaurant within the community of Murray for many more years to come.
ing that we could try to make the best pizza,” Bartholomey said. “At the time, businesses were more focused on how to make food faster and cheaper, but we tried not to worry about that. We just wanted to try and make the best pizza.” If there is one style of pizza in which Matt B’s has specialized, it is the bizarre. Baked potato, barbecue and chicken bacon ranch pizza are just a couple of the unique items. “You won’t find a lot of those kinds of flavors at chain restaurants,” Bartholomey said. “And a lot of places won’t take 90 minutes to make two pizzas. We will. It’s something that I think brings the restaurant some charm.” Matt B’s keeps its focus on the Murray State student body, hir-
ing Murray State students almost exclusively. Once a student himself, Bartholomey said he always considers his employees’ academic schedule before their work schedule, and closes the store during Murray State events such as homecoming weekend. While it simply looks like a small pizzeria on Main Street, Matt B’s means much more to the community than just a place to grab a slice. “My favorite is when someone will walk in and say ‘do you remember me?’” Bartholomey said. “I’ll say they look familiar and they’ll say they went to Murray State. It was the first place they wanted to go to. Even after they graduate, they’re still thinking of us. It makes Matt B’s special.”
BEST COFFEE Fidalgo Bay By Megan Kavy Fidalgo Bay Coffee opened in August 2007 and is a convenient location for students because of its close proximity to campus. Fidalgo Bay Coffee has become one of the most well known places for students to get coffee. “We have soft music at night so people come in and study,” Sarah Wade, a freshman employee said. Wade said she thinks Fidalgo Bay Coffee attracts so many students because the environment is relaxed and simple. Fidalgo Bay Coffee offers a drink special every day, as well as numerous other items from which cus-
tomers can choose. In addition to the variety of espresso and hot and cold drinks, it also offers a variety of pastries, breads, cookies and sandwiches. She said its menu is ideal for students looking for a snack or drink while studying. The owners, Sarah Fineman and Terry Strieter, both have connections to Murray State. Fineman is an alumnus and Strieter is a professor at the University. “We have a pretty big connection to Murray State,” Fineman said. She said she loves Murray and the University, which is why student support is so important to her and the company.
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BEST PLACE TO EAT BREAKFAST, TO CURE A HANGOVER Mary’s Kitchen By Ben Manhanke
Since Keith and Mary Black first opened the doors to Mary’s Kitchen in 2009 their restaurant has become a staple for students sick of the cafeteria and in search of an authentic home-cooked meal. This year Murray State students have shown their appreciation for the family-style diner and voted Mary’s Kitchen No. 1 in both the Best Breakfast and the Best Hangover Cure categories – part of The News’ Best of Murray student-poll. Hannah Richardson, Murray native, has been a waitress at Mary’s since its opening four years ago. She said although students typically dine at Mary’s at night and in the early morning they still constitute about 50 percent of its total business.
She said part of Mary’s popularity with students is the fact that it is open around the clock and also the quality of the food. “When you eat breakfast here it’s just like eating breakfast cooked at your mom and dad’s house,” Richardson said. “That’s the sort of the thing we aim for: good, country, home-cooked food.” Richardson said Mary’s predominantly sells breakfast food, as customers are able to order breakfast items all day long. She said the restaurant appeals to students because of the friendly, laidback atmosphere. “We’re all a big family when you come in,” she said. “We love our customers and we try to take care of them. If someone who is drunk comes in, we will call them a cab. We will not let them try to leave in a way that’s going to harm them.” A large part of Mary’s clientele,
Lori Allen/The News
Mary’s Kitchen has become a staple in Murray’s fine eatery since it opened in 2009. Richardson acknowledged, are those coming in from bars and trying to sober up or to wait for a cab. She said although the Best Hangover Cure is a more unusual award for a restaurant than Best Breakfast to receive, it still means a lot to be voted the best. “I think it’s a great award because it’s good to know that we made college students feel better and that they weren’t always hugging the toilet the next morning,” she said. Candy Cavanaugh, general manager of Mary’s Kitchen, said everyone who works at Mary’s is ecstatic over the stu-
dents voting them No. 1 in both categories and winning the awards has been the talk of the kitchen. She said the awards meant a lot, because if it wasn’t for the students Mary’s probably wouldn’t be able to stay in business. This is the second time Mary’s Kitchen has been voted Best Breakfast and Best Hangover Cure in the past three years. While Mary’s Kitchen did not receive any Best of Murray awards last year, in 2011 it received a total of three awards, the third, which was not included as an award this year, Best Service.
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Breakfast Breakfas
MARY’S MAR Y’S KITCHEN
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April 19, 2013
BEST BOOKSTORE, PLACE TO WORK University Bookstore
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BEST HEALTH CARE PROVIDER Primary Care Medical Center
By Hunter Harrell
Torrey Perkins/The News
A student flips through a book on the discount rack at the University Bookstore.
According to the students of Murray State, the University Bookstore, located on the second floor of the Curris Center, is the best bookstore in town. “The bookstore offers a wide range of merchandise,” said Rachel Job, sophomore from Cape Girardeau, Mo. “We pretty much offer everything you would think students, alumni, and fans would need.” The store has a wide variety of apparel including Murray State T-shirts, sweatshirts, pajamas, shorts and pants. In addition to the University apparel, it also has clothing and memorabilia representing each residential college. It also has accessories such as headbands, clips, hats, purses and pendants available. The University Bookstore is not only a service to the students at Murray State, but it was also voted best place to work on campus. Job, who also works in customer service, said believes the people who work there make all the difference.
Michelle Grimaud/The News
A student has her blood pressure checked at Primary Care.
By Amanda Grau Primary Care Medical Center originated in January 1994 when two medical offices merged, and later became what it is today. Primary Care quickly became the only medical service open seven days a week. In October 2007 it moved into its current location on 12th street. With its new facility, Primary Care was able to
bring in specialists in addition to regular doctor care. With new technology, there are a variety of options for the detection and diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and heart disease, as well as digital media records and Primary Care Everywhere, which allows patients to access their own patient portals on the go, and make appointments via mobile devices.
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BEST PLACE TO STUDY & NAP Harry Lee Waterfield Library By Kelly Farrell
Taylor McStoots/The News
A student studies during the day at Harry Lee Waterfield Library. Waterfield was voted by the students as the best place to study and as the best place to take a nap.
BEST PUBLIC RESTROOMS Curris Center By Kelly Farrell
There are countless restrooms located around Murray State’s campus. Some of them are tucked away in remote corners of busy buildings and others are conveniently located right by elevators or the lecture halls. Naturally, Murray State students and faculty have preferences when it comes to such matters around campus. The student body selected the
The semester is winding down and professors are starting to load final projects on their students. The votes are in and Harry Lee Waterfield Library won both best place to study and nap on campus. “It's the best place to nap because you can go to the top floor and it is dead silent,” Chris Rhodes, senior from Henderson, Ky., said. “I've napped in there at least four or five times a semester because as soon as I lie down on a couch upstairs, I instantly doze off with the silence.” Students that study in the library do not seem to care one way or another if others are sleeping around them. “I always see people sleeping in the library,” Natalie Brewer, junior from Charleston, Mo., said. “I have class and study sessions in the library weekly, therefore I see it constantly. People are generally snoring, having a great sleep. I personally have never taken a nap there. I have just made the
restrooms in the Curris Center to be their favorite public restroom on campus. The question remains: why are the Curris Center restrooms considered to be the best at Murray State? What makes them preferable to the other ones in newer buildings? “They are kept really clean,” student worker Kiaya Young said. “The workers work very hard on that. They are larger and aren’t used as much and they are more modern.” It goes without saying that cleanliness is important when concerning restrooms. This is especially true when numerous students and faculty members occupy them all day every day. Of course, maintenance employees
622 N 12 St Murray, KY (270) 753-7827
assumption it is the best place on campus to take a nap.” Studies have shown that napping before studying could help students to better on their exams. Murray State students favor one certain building on the campus over any of the other places, rooms or areas to study in and complete homework. Studying for quizzes, midterms and finals are an essential part of the college experience. “I really like studying at the library because I can focus on my work there,” sophomore Megan Nouvertne said. “It beats other places like my dorm room due to distractions and it’s a lot harder to stay motivated.” Anybody can walk into Waterfield Library on campus and see how crowded the main floor is with students checking Facebook, on Blackboard or typing away on English papers. The library continues to have something for every student with its comfort and quiet.
clean the other bathrooms around campus like those in Faculty Hall and the newer Jesse D. Jones Chemistry building, too. So, what really sets the Curris Center apart? “The bathrooms are really nice. The ones on the first floor of the Curris Center has double doors which is different than many others,” sophomore Megan Nouvertne said. “The bathrooms are better. They are also roomier than some of the others around campus.” A spacious and clean public restroom sounds like it meets everything a student would want or need when out and about. The Curris Center restrooms meet all of the student wants and needs.
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BEST BAR The Keg By Taylor Crum Not only is it a bar, but it is also a place for good music, karaoke and great food. It came as no surprise to students that The Keg was voted this year’s Best Bar of Murray. Established in 2002, The Keg’s comfortable yet fun atmosphere and extensive menu continues to draw in crowds of college students and community members. The convenience of ordering an appetizer with a cold alcoholic
beverage is an attraction as well as the live music and karaoke that The Keg offers to customers for a unique experience. Owner Darren Gates is extremely proud to say that The Keg is different than any other bar in Murray. “I think it is because of our service and great food with a bar as well,” Gates said. Gates also said he loves the support The Keg gets from Murray State students, and says it is one dynamic that
keeps The Keg thriving. “We get a lot of support,” Gates said. “Especially from the fraternities and sororities on campus for rebate nights.” As a graduate of Murray State and fellow Greek life member, Gates says it feels great to work with students. The Keg is the ideal place for any Murray State student to relax and have a good time after a stressful week of studies or just to grab a bite to eat with friends.
BEST LIVE MUSIC/LOCAL BAND Barefoot and Blue
BEST LIQUOR All in Good Spirits By Kelsey Randolph Since the city of Murray has gone wet, several liquor stores have opened and retailers have begun to sell packaged alcohol. Students voted, deciding that All in Good Spirits on Chestnut Street was the best place in Murray to buy alcohol. The store has been open for two months and has made an impression on its buyers. “The employees are always welcoming and willing to lend a hand,” said Alexander Berg, senior from Lombard, Ill. “They have the largest and most organized selection of alco-
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Students go to The Keg to relieve stress from a week of school.
hol I’ve seen in Murray.” According to All in Good Spirits’ Facebook, its focus is to provide customers with excellent service, great selection and unbeatable prices. If customers can’t find what they’re looking for, the store will be glad to order it. Owner Mark Whitaker from Murray said his focus was the students and the proximity to campus. “I feel honored to be voted best of Murray,” Whitaker said, “It’s the students that make this possible. It’s our business principle to be friendly and help in any way we can.” For only being open since February 22, the selection at All in Good Spirits has already grown and continues to grow. Whitaker says he would like to expand Murray’s knowledge of wine and the different types sold now that residents can purchase it without driving somewhere else.
By Amanda Grau Barefoot and Blue was formed during Clarkstock, an event created by Neil Lovett, a founding member of the band. Lovett, who plays lead and rhythm guitar along with vocals and drums, formed the original idea for Barefoot and Blue with former member Josh Henley and current drummer/vocalist Luke Garrett. During Clarkstock 2009, Lovett and Garrett met Brian Conner (now lead and rhythm guitar) and Roger McDonald (bass and vocals). “We met these guys and started jamming and found out we were into the same type of music,” said Garrett. “So we said, ‘Hey, you want to actually do this?’” Barefoot and Blue started out as a merge between the guys’ love of bluesy music and the founders’ west-
ern Kentucky background, giving their name a barefoot Kentucky twist. Today, with two new members, the band covers songs of all varieties for gigs, from blues to pop medleys. Beyond covers, the guys write their own original music, too, but have yet to debut any of it. The members are finding it hard to keep the band on a regular practice schedule right now because of their busy lives. Both Garrett and Lovett are graduate students at Murray State, and Connor and McDonald are graduating seniors. Garrett said that for something they love, they will do the best they can to work it out. Said Garrett: “You can express things through such a way, the right way, through music that you can get even people who aren’t naturally sympathetic or empathetic to love what you love.”
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BEST GREEK ORGANIZATION Alpha Gamma Delta By Meghann Anderson
Alpha Gamma Delta sisters pose at a one of their many community service events.
Alpha Gamma Delta won best Greek organization according to the ballots counted for the Best of Murray. Members of various Greek organizations casted their votes, but Alpha Gam won by a landslide. Sara Johnson, member of Alpha Gam and president of Panhellenic, said she feels her sorority was nominated as the best sorority on campus because of its
well-rounded members. “As a sorority we focus on living out our purpose and take pride in our sisterhood, our community service, our philanthropic events and our academics,” Johnson said. Alpha Gam she said, like all other Greek organizations, is diverse and its members are involved all over campus. Said Johnson: “Our girls are well known through our involvement in different organizations on campus where they hold offices.”
11 BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Los Portales By Carly Besser Los Portales, this year’s best Mexican restaurant, continues to draw business with its authentic Latin dishes, full bar, margaritas and south of the border atmosphere. Ramon Lopez and partner Gustavo Leon have worked together to keep Los Portales the prime Mexican restaurant in Murray, and said the one thing keeping it at the top is good customer service. “We just try to keep
friendly service, clean tables and good food,” Leon said. “I think that is why people always choose to come back here.” Once being the only restaurant of its kind, Los Portales currently competes alongside nine other Mexican restaurants. Despite growing competition, the restaurant still has a loyal base of locals, students and people who want to trade in their hamburgers and fries for a more exotic option.
BEST PLACE TO LIVE OFF-CAMPUS The Chase By Rebecca Walter Several students suffer the difficult task of trying to find somewhere to live off campus and for 3 years in a row, The Chase has been the superior choice for Murray State students.
Located at 1700 Lowes Drive, The Chase has a close proximity to campus allowing residents quick and easy access to the University while they still obtain the freedoms that come with living off campus. There are numerous conveniences
offered for residents, including access to the free pool, workout room, tanning bed and a personal shuttle service to campus. The Chase also offers fun amenities for residents as well, with Taco Tuesdays, free snacks, swimming classes and drawings to win everything from
a cooler full of snack foods to an iPad. Erica Mathis, junior from Paducah, Ky., has been living at The Chase for two years and says she is planning on renewing her lease for next year due to the positive experience she has had since living there.
L os Por tales You have given us reason to Celebrate once again! Thank you for consecutively voting us as your favorite Mexican Restaurant in Murray
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BEST CLOTHING STORE Gate 28 By Savannah Sawyer
Murray may not have too many name brand stores but the independently owned stores come by the dozen. But there can only be one best and readers of The Murray State News have voted Gate 28 as the best place to shop in Murray. Gate 28 has many loyal customers due to its friendly employees. “I really enjoy Gate 28 and it’s a great business in Murray,” Sara Wallace, sophomore from Paducah, Ky., said. “This store truly provides an amazing shopping experience due to the friendly and ready-to-help employees, as well as the great daily sales including the 50 percent off rack outside.” Aside from having great deals, Gate 28 also carries a wide range of clothing brands. “My favorite brand they
carry is Judith March,” Wallace said. “They have a wide variety of clothing brands that are hard to find in the area outside of Murray.” There’s something for every shopper, from accessories and dresses to shoes and a variety of tops and pants. “There’s something for everyone whether you are shopping for an outfit to wear to a football tailgate or a sorority formal,” Wallace said. “Gate 28 is vintage-inspired meets country-chic,” Adrianne Rogers, owner of Gate 28, said. “We offer so many different styles, looks and sizes. We are not limited to what is in our headline, as we carry modern and contemporary styles as well.” Since the store has been open since Nov. 15, 2011, Gate 28 has expanded greatly. “We have seen substantial growth since then (and are
now) expanding into the next door unit, and launching an online website,” Rogers said. “We are currently expanding as we speak, again. We will have the entire building where we currently reside.” Rogers feels Murray State students and residents of Murray in general are dedicated shoppers at Gate 28 because of the personal relationships she is able to form. “We love Murray State and as an alumna myself, I support the students and know what it is to be a Racer,” Rogers said. “Student support is growing because we get to know our customers, and with Murray being a small town, it is important to get to know each and every customer, so we can better assist them. Many of our customers consider us their personal shoppers.”
The News
Gate 28, which has been open since November of 2011, has a wide variety of clothing and accessories of every style for every occasion.
BEST HAIR SALON Hair Ink BEST PLACE TO TAKE A DATE By Kelsey Randolph
The News
Travis said using Italian products gives the salon the edge it needs because Europeans always have the newest trends first.
Every student wants a trendy, affordable haircut from someone they can trust. Hair Ink has those qualities. Hair Ink is a full-service salon including a nail technician and makeup artist. The salon has been open for five years, but some customers have been seeing their specific hair stylists for eight. “I trust the hair dressers,” said Tayler Alvey, sophomore from Murray. “I can walk in and tell her to do whatever she wants and I trust it will look good.” The employees at Hair Ink are required to stay updated on the latest trends and products. “I truly felt like my hair stylist cares about what I tell her,” said Ashley Rudolph, sophomore from Benton, Ky. “I feel it’s the small, locally owned shops like Hair Ink that helped Murray win friendliest town in America.” The stylists work hard to retain their customer base. “We work hard to be friendly and welcoming,” Hair Ink owner Kela Travis said. “We love what we do and it is very rewarding to know people voted us number one.
Jasmine Thai Cuisine and Sushi Bar By Shannon MacAllister
Jasmine Thai Cuisine and Sushi Bar allows guys to keep things classy and impress their dates, making it Best of Murray’s best place to take a date. The restaurant’s newly renovated interior and friendly service creates a unique atmosphere that is perfect for any date. “Taking a date to Jasmine makes a guy look classy, even though we may not always be,” said Alex Morin, junior from Grosse Ile, Mich. “It will definitely impress them because it’s a really good atmosphere and has great food.” Jasmine’s general manager Casey Carter said one of the main reasons for the renovation that occurred last year was because the owner wanted to give back to the people of Murray.
“(Murray citizens) are the reason we have been successful, so the owner wanted to give back by giving them a really nice, upscale restaurant in town,” Carter said. The restaurant was renovated in September 2012, and took three weeks to complete. “Alex (Morin) took me to Jasmine on our fourth or fifth date,” said Elsa Kebede, junior from San Clemente, Calif. “It was a great place to go because it has great service. The servers are great and the food is excellent. It’s also really great to know that your date cares enough to take you somewhere nice.” Kebede said Jasmine’s cozy and intimate setting coupled with its trendy and modern decor lends to any date, making it somewhere to go back to again and again.
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BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP St. Leo’s Catholic Church By Shannon MacAllister
The News
A short walk from campus, St. Leo’s Catholic Church is a popular place to worship for Murray State students.
Making Murray a home away from home can be one of the biggest struggles as a freshman, but St. Leo’s, voted best place to worship, has helped many students smooth the transition. The church, self described as a culturally diverse Catholic community, is located next to residential colleges Regents and White, giving it a prime location to appeal to new Murray State students. Maggie Nawa, freshman from New Lenox, Ill., has been attending the church for two semesters after joining the community in the fall. Nawa said St. Leo’s is really like a home away from home after having grown up in a religious home and going to church every Sunday. “I’ve been Catholic since I
was born, so when I came to Murray I began looking for a place to worship and stay connected and eventually found St. Leo’s,” Nawa said. Nawa said that after meeting a representative from St. Leo’s at her freshman orientation, the church began to reach out to her and let her know about all they had to offer. It was their caring nature that attracted her, she said. “I gave the woman at the booth they had set up my email, and they started to make me feel welcome even before I came to college,” Nawa said. “They started sending me their newsletters and some information about what they had going on. It really made it so that even when I first visited the church it didn’t feel like everyone was a stranger.” It is programs such as this that
have Murray State students voting St. Leo’s the best place to worship. Another of St. Leo’s more popular programs is the home cooked meal served after every service. The meal is for everyone, and allows students to relax with a meal that can’t be found on campus, adding again to the feeling of belonging. “St. Leo’s has a really strong family environment and they really actually care about you,” Nawa said. “It was especially important to me when I first came to college because they welcomed me and gave me a place to belong. It’s also a place where I’ve met a lot of my friends and people that I hang out with, which was incredibly important to me when I first moved in.”
BEST PLACE TO LIVE ON BEST SANDWICH Subway CAMPUS Lee Clark College By Megan Kavy
By Rebecca Walter A residential college quickly becomes a student’s home away from home while away at college and helps to enrich the overall experience students have. Lee Clark College does an exceptional job of welcoming its residents by providing opportunities to establish friendship, achieve academic success and the promotion of faculty-student collaborations. Bert Siebold, College Head of Clark, said the college works hard to be the best and always manage to have a good time doing so by offering the best atmosphere possible for its residents. “I want our residents to have it all,” Seibold said. “A place that is safe, personal and friendly to come home to, while also expanding their horizons through various opportunities and trying new things.” Clark offers several community builders throughout the year for residents to relax and have a good time with cookouts, camping trips and participating in various intramural sports.
Residents are also offered programs in resume building, international and study abroad fairs and programs which promote the benefit of volunteering and encourage residents to make a difference. Through its various philanthropy projects this year, Clark raised $625 for Relay for Life, donated 200 pounds of clothing to Angels Attic and gave 300 pounds of food to Need Line for needy families in the area. With the annual Clarkstock festival, Clark raised more than $400 for the Main Street Youth Center while coming together and enjoying each others company. Christy Soldo, freshman from Hopkinsville, Ky., said her favorite thing about living in Clark is the friendly atmosphere she experiences on a daily basis and always being greeted by a smiling face. With all of the opportunities to make friendships, thrive academically and make a difference in the community, it is no wonder why many students find Clark to be the best place to spend their college years.
A variety of restaurants serving sandwiches can be found in Murray, but even with so many options to choose from, students voted Subway to be their choice for best sandwich. Subway is a place most people are familiar with. There are more than 37,000 locations around the world. The first Subway opened in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1965 and has been a popular place ever since. The Subway in Murray is located at 622 N. 12th St., approximately one mile away from campus. This close proximity makes it easy and convenient for students and its wide range of hours gives students many opportunities to stop by throughout their days. One of the most intriguing factors about Subway is its menu. It has a wide variety of sandwiches and it give you the option to customize your own as well. “Subway is a healthier choice and they have a lot more options than any of the other places I have been,” freshman Taylor Rhoades said. “I like how they have the calorie count on their menu.” Subway has a special fresh fit choices menu, which specifically targets people looking to eat healthier. There is even an option on their website that allows you to create any kind of sandwich and see the nutritional value it contains.
This is very beneficial to students who are looking to eat healthy while they’re away at college. Subway provides a variety of fresh ingredients for their sandwiches and they offer special requests for certain dietary needs.
“Subway is a healthier choice and they have a lot more options than any of the other places I have been.” –Taylor Rhoades Freshman from St. Louis, Mo.
“My favorite thing about Subway is how I get to watch them make my sandwich,” Rhoades said. Subway provides many specials and featured sandwiches each month that appeal to students. The breakfast menu provides an interesting twist that appeals to students who want to eat something different off campus before class. The Murray Subway is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
The News
Best of Murray
14
April 19, 2013
BEST CAMPUS TRADITION Shoe Tree By Hunter Harrell
Among the many traditions Murray State students and faculty hold dear, the Shoe Tree located in the center of the Quad garners extra attention from Murray students and visitors alike. “Murray State's traditions have a way of making you feel like family,” said Stefanie Stricklin, 2008 graduate. “You're a part of the school's past as well as its future. It is fascinating to look at the tree and see all of the happy memories and blossoming romances that started because of Murray State.” The Shoe Tree has been a tradition at the University since the late ‘50s. Though no one is entirely sure when the tradition began, generations of couples have migrated back to Murray State years after graduating to nail their
footwear to the tree. However, the current Shoe Tree is not the original. This is the second tree at Murray State because the first was struck by lightning, many say due to the amount of nails in the tree. The original tree caught fire, so the second tree was started. Consequently, in an effort to prevent lightning strikes and fires, the tree’s branches were cut off. Those couples who meet or fall in love at the University and later get married come back to nail their shoes to the tree for good luck. Some people even go as far to nail their children’s shoes next to theirs as their family grows. “Nailing my shoe to the tree was something I never thought I'd get to do,” Stricklin said. Stefanie met her husband, Blake, in Old Richmond College and the couple was married in September 2010.
“Putting our shoes on the Shoe Tree was definitely on my bucket list after we got married,” Stefanie said. “We nailed our shoes to the tree on our first wedding anniversary and it was special to come back to where it all began.” Many shoes share the names of their owners and the dates they met or married. Others choose a specific type of shoe to represent their personality, or if they can remember, the pair of shoes in which the couple met. “I find it fascinating that there are so many different styles of shoes,” said Taylor Hamrick, sophomore from Senath, Mo. “There are tennis shoes, flipflops, dress shoes, any styles of shoes you can imagine.” Not only are the styles of shoes diverse, but the shoes are plentiful. Although no leaves grow on the tree, the shoes become more bountiful as time passes. The
BEST ICE CREAM/FRO-YO Yogurt Your Weigh By Laura Kovarik
Nestled in the center of Murray and a few steps off of campus, Yogurt Your Weigh has become a favorite hangout amongst students and community members. Its doors opened on Sept. 21, 2012, and the new establishment has received a multitude of good reviews
and a warm welcome from the community and students. The family-run and Christianbased restaurant is owned by Chad and Kara Canerdy. Originally from Murray, the two locals thought the location would be a perfect place to start a frozen yogurt shop. Yogurt Your Weigh is located off of Chestnut Street.
Emily Clark/The News
Every year students add on to the tradition that is the Shoe Tree. simplicity and uniqueness of the Shoe Tree often has students and visitors talking. “The Shoe Tree is so unique,” Hamrick said. “It is such an interesting sight to see. Once you visit Murray’s cam-
The success of Yogurt Your Weigh stems from a multitude of reasons. Bringing prior experience from working in a yogurt shop in Bowling Green, Ky., Kara used that to make Yogurt Your Weigh even better. With high ceilings, vibrant colors covering the walls and friendly staff, Yogurt Your Weigh has become a hot spot with Murray residents. The restaurant is open all year and has both indoor and outdoor seating. Large machines offer customers a selection of 15 different yogurt flavors. In addition to choosing the exact amount they want, customers
pus, you do not forget it.” Whether the Shoe Tree is a piece of art, a lovers’ monument or part of the school’s history, it is, as voted by the students, Murray State’s best tradition.
are able to customize and add as many or as few toppings as they want. Fresh fruit, a variety of candies and miscellaneous toppings are offered in a buffet-style topping bar. Employee and family member Courtney Tubbs helps run the front of the restaurant. “Yogurt Your Weigh is special because you can customize and make your yogurt exactly how you want it,” Tubbs said. “There are also many health benefits.” She said frozen yogurt is a healthy alternative to other sweet snacks and junk food.
We want to say Thank You! Hours: Mon - Thurs: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday - Sat: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sun: 12 - 9 p.m.
270. 761. 7564
Located within walking distance from campus at 1304 Chestnut St
The News April 19, 2013
Best of Murray
15
Congratulations to Bob Valentine Valentine for being voted “Best Faculty Member!� on behalf of the Department of Journalism Jour nalism and Mass Communications, and the Arthur J. Bauernfeind Bauer nfeind College of Business.
Arthur J. Bauernfeind
Best of Murray
16
The News April 19, 2013
BEST FACULTY MEMBER STUDENT ATHLETE
STAFF MEMBER
Robert Valentine
Isaiah Canaan
Jason Hinson-Nolen
By Ben Manhanke
By Jonathan Ferris
By Meghann Anderson
For the second year in a row Bob Valentine, professor of journalism and mass communications, has been selected as Murray State’s “Best Faculty Member” in the Best of Murray student poll. Valentine said receiving this award was very humbling and gratifying. He said being recognized by the students in this way makes him want to work much harder as a teacher. Valentine has been involved with Murray State either in a teaching roll or working in an administrative position since 1974 and recently was recognized by the University for 15 consecutive years of teaching. During his time at Murray State, he has worked in three different departments: organizational communication, theater and, where he currently resides, journalism and mass communication. Valentine said he typically teaches four or more classes a semester. He said his motivation for teaching is seeing his students succeed both in the classroom and later in life and to know he influenced their accomplishments. “It’s very rewarding when you see people who took advantage of their education, are doing good work and are happy,” he said. “It makes you feel good to think you may have been a part of that.” Valentine said working with a variety of different majors, and students, over the years has given him a great respect for those he teaches in regard to the pressure on them to succeed.
When senior basketball star Isaiah Canaan walks across the graduation stage a few weeks from now, he will leave Murray State as the all-time leader in 3-point baskets made, fifth on the all-time scoring list and one of the three winningest players to ever wear the Racer uniform. To students and local fans, however, Canaan is much more than a list of record-breaking accomplishments. The All-American came to Murray State in the fall of 2009, not known for much other than his nickname of Sip, derived from his home state of Mississippi. Canaan immediately wowed fans, however, as he averaged 10.4 points per game in his first season. Racer fans didn’t truly realize his greatness, however, until the famed half-court shot from his knees which appeared on SportsCenter later that night. Now four years later, Canaan has become the big man on campus. He has led his team to three conference championships, two NCAA Tournament victories, was named an AP All-American and won OVC Player of the Year twice. Arguably the most decorated and nationally recognized athlete to ever play at Murray State, you’d be hard pressed to distinguish Canaan from any other student on campus as he is regularly seen eating at the Thoroughbred Room and laughing with friends in between classes. “He seems to be a very humble athlete and doesn't have the attitude that he is better than everyone else because he is an elite athlete,” sophomore Jay Patel from Paducah, Ky., said. “Everyone loves an athlete with that type of attitude.”
After conducting two national searches last summer, the search committee for the Greek Life Coordinator hired Jason Hinson-Nolen, a 2007 graduate of Murray State, as the interim coordinator for this academic year. Earlier this week it was announced that he would return this fall as the full-time Greek Life Coordinator. As Greek Life Coordinator he assesses and works with the 22 Greek organizations on campus. Some of his accomplishments since starting the job in August are expanding Greek life by bringing Kappa Delta to campus beginning fall 2013, revamping the social policy and creating the All Greek Standards Board. Hinson-Nolen said he has focused on students and tried to work directly with them. “My mentor has also been Dr. Robertson,” Hinson-Nolen said. “Dr. Robertson’s way of being an administrator is to be as engaged as possible.” He said now that he has fixed the issues in Greek life, he can focus on student organizations. “Jason Hinson-Nolen has impacted the Greek community in ways that I could never imagine this year,” Mary Dorr, vice president of National PanHellenic Council, said. “He has worked diligently to improve social policies of all councils, he has implemented changes that have encouraged us to work together rather than separate, but most importantly, he truly cares about each individual member of each specific organization.”