The
All State
in this issue:
Dining & Entertainment Guide
Chicago-style hogtogs find home in Clarksville
Venues around town rock out with live music
Dan and Donna Johnson opened Chi-Town Hotdogs 16 years ago and have Page 5 been sharing their favorites ever since.
Go out with friends, and catch up with some local artists for a good time.
Inexpensive family fun can be a reality Taking the kids out doesn’t have to equal big bucks. These ideas will Page 9 jumpstart a day they won’t soon forget.
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Dining
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
Relax, eat, be merry at The Deli By JASON DRUMM Features Editor
If you’re looking for a place to just kick back, relax and cut loose in Clarksville, The Front Page Deli News offers just that. The Front Page Deli News, or “the Deli” for short, has been open in its current location since 1999. It moved after the tornados swept through Clarksville in spring of 1999 according to Amiee Davidson, a two-year bartender/manager. “Our slogan here is ‘Eat here, diet at home,” said Davidson. The Deli provides its customers with food that sticks to their ribs.“We offer good sized portions.You won’t walk away feeling hungry.” Tax is also included in all the prices. Happy hour is between 4 and 7 p.m. Customers can get half-off appetizers with the exception of shrimp and oysters. But, for those oyster lovers out there, during Thursday’s happy hour raw oysters are 25 cents apiece. Every Wednesday the wings are half-price from 4 p.m. to close. Monday nights all the appetizers are half off from 4 p.m. to close. Not only does the Deli have food, there is live music almost every night.“On Tuesday night we have open-mic night.Wednesday night we have Working Women’s Wednesday which Q108 comes down and has contests and drawings,” said Davidson.“There are drink specials for the women and half-priced appetizers.”
Chopper’s atmosphere turns visitors into regulars Fun,family go hand in hand By April McDonald Staff Writer
LOIS JONES/STAFF
The Front Page Deli News’s employees Erica Cyr, left, Shawna Coleman, and APSU senior, Jeremy Maxwell clean up and prepare for dinner and late-night crowds.
The Holt Brothers play bluegrass following Working Women’s Wednesday. On Thursday nights, John Winters plays an acoustic set with covers from 70s, 80s, 90s and current hits. “Fridays and Saturdays always change,” said Davidson.“We have country, John Winters, and Hypertension plays R&B. From that we get a whole different variety.” Along with food and music, the Deli also has a bar. Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to close, the Deli has $1 drafts and $3 pitcher drink specials. During happy hour, the drafts are $1.50 each with imports being $2.75 and domestics $2 each. They also offer liquor. “I like the Deli,” said Eddy Murphy,, 23, a junior English major.“ I hangout there because of the inexpensive beer, college atmosphere, live music and the people. I definitely like all the booths. There’s always somewhere to sit. The whole atmosphere from the checkered floors to the paintings on the wall and the pool tables in the back, it’s very comforting.You go there a few times and people already know your name.” It appears as though the Deli has a “Cheers-like” quality where everybody knows your name. Drop on in and give it a try. They offer something for everyone. ✦
Choppers Roadhouse, located at 1979 Madison Street, is more than just a bar. “We have a fun, family atmosphere. We have a lot of people who bring their children in here,” said Nicole Daley, server for Choppers. They offer a full dining menu including quesadillas, chopper pizzas – highly recommended by Daley, – rib eyes, salmon and fried pickles so you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes and cravings. In addition Choppers has pool tables, bar top games, a digital jukebox, live music and a fully stocked bar for the 21-and-up crowd. The live music begins between 8 and 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday with karaoke on Sunday. The genres range anywhere from classic rock through the 90s to country depending who’s on stage on any particular night. Happy hour has $1.25 drafts, $2 long necks, and 2-for-1 drink specials. Happy hour runs from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Mondays, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and all day on Sundays. Choppers is open Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., and Sunday from noon to 3 a.m. There is no cover charge. ✦
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
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Burrito Bungalow brings Tex Mex flavor to students Fresh ingredients,West Coast style merge to give Clarksville one impressive restaurant By JASON DRUMM Features Editor
Live music, laid-back atmosphere, free wireless Internet, a meal for around $5 and a place to chill from open to close. Burrito Bungalow has much to offer Austin Peay State University students. Burrito Bungalow specializes in Tex-Mex plates.“We have the ‘five basic food groups,’” said Kent Bliss, founder and owner of Burrito Bungalow.“Burritos, nachos, quesadillas, tacos and then the taco salads.” The food portions are not small by any means. However, Burrito Bungalow offers half size portions for light to regular eaters. They also have 25 different ingredients, allowing guests to customize their meals. Bliss calls this the B.Y.O.B. — build you own burrito — also offered for quesadillas. “Our food is not heavily seasoned. It’s more of a West Coast style,” said Bliss.“It’s all fresh.We grill the steak and all the chicken and prepare all the salsas fresh everyday.” Hungry but don’t want to leave your dorm? Don’t worry, Burrito Bungalow delivers anywhere on the APSU campus. They give a 10 percent APSU student discount as well. Some of the Bungalow’s specials are “Taco Tuesdays” (all you can eat tacos), which they announce via ads and flyers. “We’ve got a record for anyone would like to break the record,” said Bliss.“The record so far is 12 tacos in one sitting and three and a half large burritos.” If you beat the record in an hour, the record-breaking taco is on the house. On Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights,
“Just come on down the hill, come eat and hangout awhile.It’s a good place to meet up before you go out,” – Kent Bliss, owner
Burrito Bungalow hosts a free Texas Hold ‘Em tournament with prizes given. Just simply come in, sign up and grab a seat.“We have anywhere from 40 to 80 people playing on any night,” said Bliss. Bliss offers an invitation for pre- and postAPSU sporting events.“We’ll stay open as long as people are coming in,” said Bliss. They have coffee and cheesecake for those who might not want to have an entire meal and want to just hangout for a while. Burrito Bungalow’s doors are always open to APSU students. They are a corporate sponsor for APSU’s athletic department and host the APSU block party. “We would love to be included on the meal plan for campus,” said Bliss.“Just come on down the hill, come eat and hangout a while. It’s a good place to meet up before you go out.” Burrito Bungalow is also hiring with flexible schedules for students. They open at 10:30 a.m. everyday. “I would love for Austin Peay to come and eat here everyday,” said Bliss. If you want to give Burrito Bungalow a go, it’s only a block from campus. ✦
LOIS JONES/STAFF
Burrito Bungalow’s co-owner Kent Bliss prepares a burrito for a customer. Burritos, quesadillas and tacos can be created with any combination of ingredients. The restaurant has recently added a pool table, a Foosball table and an arcade game for its customers’enjoyment.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
Find a piece of Greece at Sam’s Coffee bistro owns By Bridget Dunnavant Guest Writer
Authentic international food can be a great alternative to the same old burger joints, Sam’s Gyros Café can provide just this with menu items like its kabob platters. Sam’s is the only place in Clarksville where you can even get a lamb kabob. The inspiration for owner Sam Wahdan’s restaurant stems from his desire to show his appreciation to soldiers by providing food they really like but hard to find in the states. Living for years in several military towns has allowed Sam to learn what types of international food soldiers have grown accustomed to while overseas. He seems to have perfected preparation of food that is exactly what the soldiers want while staying true to Greek tradition. The first location opened two years ago on Fort Campbell Boulevard right across from Old Post and caters to mostly military families. Command Sergeant Major Jeff Palmer is new in town and asked a buddy where to get a good gyro and was told,“If you want some good gyros go to Sam’s – its the best place in town for gyros.” Sam also gives special military rates. But the menu is not just for members of the military and their families. The restaurant’s second location was opened earlier this year off I-24’s Exit 1 and serves a more varied crowd.
“Our family loves authentic Greek food. The chicken kabobs are to die for.”
unique atmosphere By April McDonald
– Kate Garcia, APSU alumna and Sam’s regular
Staff Writer
“Our family loves the authentic Greek food,” said Austin Peay State University alumna Kate Grabia.“The chicken kabobs are to die for, and the people are super friendly.” In an area where a subdivision pops up every time you blink, Exit 1 became a perfect spot for a lunch or dinner dine-in and carryout restaurant.After Sam’s Gyro’s became the first to surface there, several others soon followed. It was this convenience that first brought Corwin Bennett to the restaurant, but many other qualities keep her coming back. “Sam has a wonderful personality and treats you like the only customer,” Bennett said. “He always asks about my son, and everything he makes is great. Everything I’ve tried I’ve liked.” Two things that resound when talking to the customers who pour in like clockwork at 11:30 a.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. for dinner are that Sam’s is the best place in town to get this type of food, and you cannot find a friendlier staff. One loyal customer,Joe Walls says he sometimes eats at the Ft.Campbell location during his lunch break at work and then hits the Trenton Road café for dinner on his way home. For many people, Sam’s Gyros Café really has become the closest thing in this community to a friendly neighborhood diner, with a spin. Sam’s one statement: “Welcome home, and thank you to the soldiers returning from deployment.” ✦
Blondie’s Sandwiches and Coffee, located at 135 Franklin Street, is one of Clarksville’s newest coffee bistros, having opened on May 9 of this year. “We have a unique atmosphere – we have a 40s theme, and we have a courtyard that most coffee shops don’t have,” said Andrea Smith, owner. Upon walking in you feel like you’re in the 40s in the modern world. Just out back you can sit and enjoy your coffee while using the Wi-Fi signal and almost forget that you are in downtown Clarksville. The quiet garden and shady trees give it a country feel. During these warm days you can sit down with one of Blondie’s best sellers – a frozen coffee in your favorite flavor, also made with your choice of ice cream flavors. Blondie’s is more than just a quiet coffee spot; is offers a full menu all day long. In addition to the normal coffees offered at bistros, Blondie’s also offers various flavor bagels with many choices for cream cheese including plain, strawberry, honey and nut, and cucumber dill just to name a few. You can also order your bagel with sausage, ham bacon, and egg, or you can have a muffin or Danish if you prefer. If bagels, muffins or a Danish is not what your taste buds desire, you can chose from any of Blondie’s sandwiches or salads. Perhaps you would like to try one of the bistro’s other best sellers. The grilled Blondie is the only hot sandwich on the menu and made with sliced ham, sliced turkey, Swiss cheese, and Blondie’s favorite pesto sauce. Or you could choose from any of the other sandwiches available made from a variety of bread styles including bagel, ciabatta, wheatberry or tomato basil wrap. If you prefer a salad, you the Blondie’s original is made with sliced turkey, spinach and romaine lettuce, tomatoes, onions, grated mozzarella cheese, craisins and pecans, with a raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Caesar or a side salads are also available. When available, Blondie’s has a rotation daily special of either tuna salad or one of two chicken salads, either the grilled chicken Caesar or cranberries and walnuts for you to choose from. Blondie’s Sandwiches and Coffee is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.✦
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
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Chicago-style hotdogs available right in Clarksville Married couple brings this Windy City specialty to hearts,stomachs of patrons By Mandy Rogers Editor in Chief
“It’s pretty good,” said Paul Ortiz, a truck driver stopping through Clarksville. The Chicago native should know. Chi-Town Hotdogs, etc., is a small business located to the right of Big Lots on Riverside Drive, and it’s known for its Chicago style hotdogs. “I just made a delivery to Big Lots, and I wanted to critique the hotdogs to see if they are really like the ones in Chicago,” Ortiz said. “It’s pretty good.” It should be up to standards. Owners Dan and Donna Johnson get their meat trucked in directly from Chicago twice a week. The Johnsons opened Chi-Town in Clarksville in 1993. The two are from Chicago, and they say their inspiration was a place called Jimmy’s Hotdogs, down the road from their high school growing up in Chicago. “It was our favorite high school hangout,” Donna said.“Dan and I married in 1993 and one week later moved to Clarksville to open a hotdog place.” Two months later, they opened their doors to customers. The original Chi-Town location was on Dover road, but construction forced the move to its current location in 1996. Sill, many people don’t know about the restaurant. “A lot of people don’t know about it, but locals sure do,” said Neal Rogowitz, who eats at Chi-Town a couple of times a week.“This place is unbelievable.” Rogowitz hits up Chi-Town during his
SHANNA MOSS/STAFF
Chi-Town Hotdogs has been serving Chicago-style hotdogs in Clarksville for 16 years. The building is not large enough for indoor seating, but a pavilion is located to its right.
lunch break from Wyatt Johnson and said he’d been eating at the restaurant for many, many years. Chi-Town is located in a 12-by-24-foot shack.“With only 448 square feet, you can sometimes go insane,” Donna said with a laugh. Dan and Donna have two part-time employees, but either Dan or Donna is almost always at the restaurant. Many times they are there together. “Friends ask us how we can spend so much time together at home and work, how he doesn’t drive me crazy,” Donna said.“But I love it. He’s my best friend.” Before the Johnsons moved to Clarksville to open their hotdog haven, Donna worked as a secretary at an insurance company and Don painted the interiors and exteriors of
houses. Now self-employed, the two say there have been many times they’ve wanted to hang up the hat in the past 16 years. But the good times always seem to pull them through it. “I love getting to meet all sorts of people around town,” Donna said.“Everything from falling-apart Fords to Jaguars come rolling through this drive thru. There’s no other way I’d be able to meet so many people.” Because the building is so small, there is no indoor eating area. Customers, however, can eat at a picnic area with tables under a tent to the right of the building. Customers can park and walk up to the window and then eat at the tables, or they can utilize the drive thru window. Advertising for Chi-Town is done basically through word-of-mouth. Scott Gorka has
been going to the restaurant since it moved locations in 1996. “I used to work down here, and I’d come twice a week for lunch, maybe more,” Gorka said.“They have the best hotdogs, period. The end.” Gorka introduced his daughter to ChiTown when she was nine years old. Joyce is now a student at Austin Peay State University at Fort Campbell, and she is pursuing an associate’s in Computer Technology and Information Management. “The food is so good,” Joyce said.“I live on the other side of town now, so I can only eat at Chi-Town a couple of times a month. So when we come, it’s like a special treat.” One source of pride for Dan and Donna comes from their health department score. Chi-Town scored a 100 on the last one, and since moving locations in 1996 the restaurant averages a 99.3. “We get good scores,” Donna said.“We’re proud of that.” The restaurant’s specialty is the Chi-Town hotdog, which has the works: mustard, onions, relish, pickle, tomato, cucumber and sport peppers. Customers can leave off anything they want. “If anything, you might leave off the peppers because they’re pretty hot,” Gorka said.“I get the portly dog with everything. And from Halloween to March 1, they have a great loaded potato soup.” Chi-Town is open Monday-Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Johnsons hope to meet many more people in Clarksville, as well as those passing through like Ortiz.A message from Dan and Donna to their customers on the outside of the building reads: God bless your hotdog loving hearts. ✦
Visit www.theallstate.com for the complete dish on Frescos
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
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German fare highlights downtown By Mandy Rogers Editor in Chief
Have a hankering for some German food? Brunie’s, located downtown on Legion Street, boasts some of the best schnitzel and bratwurst in town. Brunie’s also serves American food for those who are a little less adventurous in their dining choices. The restaurant has a good size menu, and many of the options are homemade. Chances are, if you visit the restaurant you’ll get a chance to meet the cook of these homemade selections – Brunie. But don’t expect Brunie to be a burly fellow, like some do. In fact, ambling from the kitchen will come Brunie herself, a 69-year old woman. Brunie Reda knows her German food. She’s from Salzburg, Austria, and moved to the United States in 1962, at the age of 24. She ended up in Clarksville when her military husband was stationed at Fort Campbell. “I opened this restaurant 14 years ago,” Reda said.“It was my goal.When my children grew up, I got lonely and decided to follow my dream.” It’s no mystery why Reda’s dream was to open a restaurant. She’s been in the business since she was 15 years old. “I have been a server, bartender, cook,
SHANNA MOSS/STAFF
The bar at Brunie’s serves as a place for friends to sit and enjoy German or American cuisine. It’s also a prime location for enjoying live music Thursday through Saturday nights.
everything,” she said. Brunie’s is open Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. and is closed on Sundays. The restaurant hosts live music Thursday through Saturday evenings. Thursday and
Friday are open mic nights and Saturday a scheduled musician dominates the small stage. Brunie’s serves up various specials each day as well. Happy hour is all day until 7 p.m.A chalkboard to the right of the entrance lists daily lunch specials. Every Monday Brunie’s
has a spaghetti lunch and each Wednesday is the schnitzel special. “We have a good lunch crowd,” Reda said. “Judges, lawyers, secretaries, construction workers – they all stop in for a good meal.” Appetizers include buffalo wings, jalapeño and cheese poppers, cheese sticks, and homemade breaded mushrooms and chicken fingers. For dessert, try either the homemade cheesecake, triple chocolate bundt cake or black forest cake. Brunie’s is a long narrow restaurant.A small stage occupies the front of the restaurant. The bar and barstools stretch along the left wall and tables fill the remainder of the room.A back room is home to a pool table, darts and two old-school arcade games – Ms. Pac Man and Galaga.A cigarette machine along the back wall adds to the nostalgia. On tap, customers will find Amber Bach, Killian’s and Bud Light. For a more German fare, Reda recommends a bottle of Warsteiner or Paulaner. So next time you’re in the mood for something different, try Brunie’s for breakfast, lunch or dinner.You’re likely to see Brunie herself, toiling in the kitchen. “This is a 24-7 job. I’ve never worked so hard the rest of my years,” Reda said.“But I enjoy what I’m doing.” ✦
The All State staff give their two cents about eateries around town New to the area? Here’s a list of some of The All State staff’s favorite bars and restaurants in Clarksville. For a great time, check them out with some of your best friends. Blackhorse — “I love the Whitehorse pizza with a glass of chardonnay.”
Lois Jones photographer
Chilis — “They have the best margaritas, and they always seem to be two for one! Also, the atmosphere is fun and the big screen TVs rock!” Mandy Rogers, editor in chief
Burrito Bungalow — “They have enough nonmeat that I don’t feel like I am spending tons of money just for a salad.” Brittany VanPutten advertising manager
Shanna moss photographer
Chi-Town Hot Dogs — “It’s the only place around here to get a good, real hot dog.Also, Red Lobster since they pay me.” Dave Campbell assistant opinions editor
Hananoki — “I am partial to Japanese food.”
Alexander Elliot graphic designer
New China Buffet —“ I love Chinese food and they have the best. Plus APSU students get aten percent discount!” April McDonald staff writer
Linda’s-Pic-A-Rib — “The best meat and three in Clarksville. Great barbeque, fried okra and the nicest people!” Jennifer Simpkins business manager
Raffertys — “All the food is made fresh and the dessert portions are huge! I also love their honey butter croissants, kona chicken and hot fingers!”
Sarah Bullock, staff writer
Blondie's — “For the cool, laid-back patio and the awesome expresso!”
Kasey Henricks opinions editor
The Front Page Deli — “I like the laid-back environment. There are always cool new people to meet, and the music is always original.
Casablanca — “I love Mexican food! Their plate of chicken nachos is like five at any other restaurant.”✦ Jason Drumm features editor
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
Entertainment
Bowling alleys can get your night rolling By Dustin Gant Guest Writer
For those who say there is nothing to do in Clarksville, they obviously are not looking hard enough. Clarksville's bowling alleys offer bowling, arcades, bars and good times. Clarksville's oldest bowling destination, Skyline Lanes, offers a fun atmosphere and a great place to hang out. “People come here for the atmosphere and the wooden lanes. People come here for the Nostalgia,” said Michael Raymond, a Skyline Lanes employee. Raymond has been bowling since he was four and takes it very seriously. He believes that to work in a bowling alley one must know about their craft. “You wouldn't buy a car from someone who knew nothing about cars would you?” he asked. Raymond also said there is a difference between Skyline Lanes and the other bowling alleys in Clarksville. “Wooden lanes make the authenticity. If
LOIS JONES/STAFF
John LaRocca, a Marine Technician from Clarksville, rolls a bowling ball during league play at the Pinnacle. The alley hosts league play every day.
you can bowl here, you can bowl anywhere,” he said. Skyline Lanes has had wooden lanes since it was opened in 1956, and the lanes have not changed much since then. The other thing that makes Skyline stand apart is the variety of activities that it offers. There are the 24 lanes of bowling, pool tables, a bar and lounge, darts, a snack bar and a vintage arcade
complete with games such as Ms. Pac Man, which helps with the nostalgia. Skyline Lanes is open from noon to 11 pm on weekdays, and usually until 1am on weekends. There is also a new kid on the block when it comes to bowling alleys, and that is the Pinnacle, which is located on Warfield Boulevard. Established in 2001, the Pinnacle
has quickly made a name for itself with its Cosmic Bowling Nights and lively crowds. The Pinnacle boasts the most lanes in Clarksville and a lively bar. The alley also hosts a variety of poker tournaments and Karaoke contests in which the participants can win grand prizes. Karaoke takes place on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Bubba Harper, a regular at the Pinnacle, put it quite simply. “Cheap beer, good friends, and pretty girls — why would I want to go anywhere else?” Bubba has chosen the Pinnacle as a hangout every Tuesday and Thursday since the Pinnacle opened five years ago. Combine all of this with an arcade and a bowling league every night of the week, and you get a great place to hang out and enjoy your time away from class. The Pinnacle is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to midnight and Sundays from noon to midnight. Prices are $14 per lane per hour before 5:30 p.m. and $18 after.✦
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
PAGE9
Local road trip could be key to final summer fun By JASON DRUMM
amount of fun we had.We didn’t spend any money, but • Visit www.theallstate.com there were promising buys. to find out how the guys Next we arrived at finished their road trip. Hint: K-A-R-A-0-K-E. Governor’s Square Mall to the video arcade. I’m not much of a gamer, but I had fun. There are many things to keep your interest from the old school Street Fighter to new Dance Dance Revolution. If you have never played DDR, I strongly suggest giving it a try. It doesn’t matter if you’re good or not, just playing it opens up the door of opportunity to have a good time and a guaranteed laugh.We each spent about three dollars here. We were tired of just acting like we were racing around, we were ready for the real thing.We then went to PutterZ to race go-carts (that’s by Exit 4).A great time for only $5.75 a race. The carts were fun and the looks on our faces were priceless. After one run we decided to just chill for a bit and again hit the arcade there.We spent about two dollars. We ended the night watching a movie we had rented. If you don’t have a membership at any of the video stores, Hollywood Video has free memberships. If you each put in a dollar and some change, you can easily rent a movie. The rental was $4.36 after tax. It was nice to sit and relax after a nice road trip. In total we spent a little under $17 of our $20 budget and it only took us seven hours to complete.A good time can be found locally and relatively inexpensive. Pay attention to local papers, like The All State and The Leaf Chronicle to see what local events are going on. Go out and have fun with your friends. It doesn’t have to take a long time, but it will be a good time.✦
FOR MORE
Features Editor
Still sitting around this summer wishing you would have gone on a road trip? Maybe you didn’t have enough money or time, or maybe it was both. Or, maybe you did go on a road trip or two but you’re going through the end-of-summer withdrawals.Whatever the case may be, most of us want to do something – anything – exciting before the daily grind of the semester begins yet again.Well never fear; my friends and I did just this. The beauty of it is that you too can take a trip like this, even during the school year, too. First thing’s first, rules or guidelines must be set. Number one: no matter how difficult, you must never think or say that a ‘local road trip’ is lame. Look at it this way, you’re going out and doing something with your friends instead of just sitting at home doing nothing. Number two: Establish how much money you can spend. In our case it was $20. Number three: Decide how far ‘local’ is. For our trip, local was anywhere in the Clarksville city limits. Number four: Cram in a car, bring music, play it loud and have a blast. Don’t forget a camera or at least a camera phone. Our local expedition brought us first to the Red Barn on campus at 3 p.m. My friends and I are active and love to workout.We thought,‘Why not start our trip out with a workout?’ It’s something we love to do, and it’s fun. After a little over an hour breaking a good sweat, we headed out in search of good, inexpensive food – not an oxymoron. It exists. Driving down Riverside Drive, we hung a quick right into the Wendy’s parking lot. The Wendys’ 99-cent menu is
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Dave Cambell, left, and Jason Drumm enjoy their local road trip. There are many fun things that can be found to do, such as riding a stage coach in front of Wendys.
nothing to be ignored.You can order a chicken sandwich, a bacon cheeseburger, a frosty (now in vanilla), fries or a baked potato, a salad, a drink, and much more for only 99 cents apiece.We walked out spending less than five dollars each. I personally spent $4.13 – a chicken sandwich, two bacon cheeseburgers and a sweet tea.) After a quick jump onto the stagecoach, we sped off to go shopping. Most people might think shopping is nothing special, but it all depends on who you go with. Our travels led us to the Super Goodwill store.We tried on ridiculous looking shirts, fumbled through the many nick-knacks and checked out the furniture.You just had to be there to experience the huge
Big family fun at impressive small price found around Clarksville By APRIL MCDONALD Staff Writer
If you’re looking for family fun for little price, Clarksville has plenty to consider. Some of the choices include the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, the Pinnacle Family Entertainment Center, PuttPutt Golf and Games, Dunbar Cave State Park and several parks operated by Clarksville Parks and Recreation, such as Woodlawn Park, and Rotary Park. The Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, located in downtown Clarksville at 200 S. Second St., offers hands-on art, science, and history activities for the kids. “We’re planning complete renovations for the bottom floor,” said Jennifer Otto, an employee of the museum. The bottom floor is called the Explorer’s floor, and has many fun activities for children. The Explorer’s floor offers the Bubble Room and several other hands-on projects, including Memory Lane, a section with old firefighting equipment, and a large model train exhibit, a must-see for both children and
adults. also has space available for all types of parties. The upper floor includes various art and Putt-Putt Golf and Games is located at 110 sculptures, a replica of an old postmaster’s Morris Road and offers go-karts, batting cages office and the original spire from the top of and a video arcade. Their the museum, which was ripped off hours are Sunday during the 1999 tornados. through Thursday The museum is open Tuesday from noon to 10 through Saturday from 10 a.m. p.m. and Friday to 5 p.m.Admission is $4 for and Saturday adults, $3 for seniors 55 and from noon to older, $2 for college students 11 p.m. Party with an ID and $1 for students space is available. age 6-18. Children under 6 are Dunbar Cave free. On Sundays the museum is State Park is LOIS JONES/STAFF open from 1 to 5 p.m. and all located on Boxcars race by on a large model admission is free. Dunbar Cave train exhibit in the basement of the Customs House Museum. The Pinnacle Family Road and offers Entertainment Center is located fishing, hiking, at 430 Warfield Blvd. and includes a grill, picnicking and a large cave to walk through. lounge, video arcade and bowling. Its hours Cave hikes are offered Wednesday, are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.A a.m. and Sunday from noon to 1 a.m. guide leads a group of up to 20 people Bowling prices range from $3 to $3.50 per through the cave, which takes about an hour game or $14 to $18 per hour. The lounge and a half. The slots fill up quickly, so it’s a offers karaoke and live music. The Pinnacle good idea to call ahead and make
FOR MORE • For inexpensive outdoor activity ideas, visit www.theallstate.com.
reservations. The phone number is 648-5526. Participants must be at least 3 years old and able to walk the entire time without being carried.A flashlight is also a must-have. Photography is not allowed in the cave. The cost of cave hikes is $4 per person. Woodlawn Park, located on Woodlawn Park Road, is operated by the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department. Ball fields, hiking/horse trails, a small playground, tennis courts, basketball court and picnic pavilions are all available. Rotary Park is located on Rotary Drive in the Sango area of Clarksville and also is operated by the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department. It offers five miles of hiking and biking trails, a large ADAapproved playground, restrooms and picnic pavilions. These six places add up to inexpensive family fun for both you and your children.✦
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
Movie theaters provide outlet for good time By Dustin Gant Guest Writer
After 3 months full of Hollywood blockbusters, the summer movie season is coming to an end. Never fear.As the weather begins to cool down and the fall semester gets rolling, there should be plenty of reason to still go to the movies for a night of fun with the friends you have missed all summer. For the massive amount of freshman that are coming from out of town or for those who did not leave their dorms last semester, The All State is here to provide a quick guide to several of Clarksville's most popular movie theaters. First, the Great Escape 16 on Tiny Town Road offers 16 screens and the area's widest selection of films. The Great Escape has a two-level arcade where moviegoers can spend their loose change and kill time before the movie begins. There is also the standard snack bar with all of the usual suspect candy, including the best $8 you will ever spend on milk duds. The theater comes equipped with retractable armrests so moviegoers won't have to stay too far away from their dates during the movie. The Great Escape also offers a room to host private parties for $50 dollars an hour. Ticket prices are $7.50 in the evenings and $5.50 for matinee showings and those in the military – including veterans and dependents. Hours are Sunday through
LOIS JONES/STAFF
Mark Strickland Jr., left, and Danna Blaylock prepare for the rush at Carmike Cinema 10 located in Governors Square Mall.
Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. and it’s open until 11:45 p.m. on weekends. The next theater on the tour is the Cinema 5 at Governors Square Mall. Located in the mall makes it perhaps the most convenient location of any. The Cinema 5 has recently expanded to 10 screens, which means more variety when it comes to the films that are shown. Manager and incoming freshman at Austin Peay State University Colin McAlexander explains what sets his theater apart from the rest. “We just switched to digital picture, and digital picture is way better,” he said.“Projection is becoming obsolete.”
McAlexander also said that the friendly atmosphere and the surrounding mall area contributes to making Cinema 5 the best. There also is going to be a BYOB night – as in Bring Your Own Bucket of popcorn for 50 cents. Hours are Noon to 10:30 p.m. and tickets are $7.50 with a two-dollar discount for military personnel. The final theater that will be essential to any collegiate moviegoer is, of course, the 99 cent theater. The Carmike 8 on Madison Street gives every college student on a budget the chance to see recent a hit movie for the change they find under their couch cushions. Beware:You will spend more on the candy than on the movie tickets. While playing hits like The Da Vinci Code and X-Men 3, the Carmike 8 will give you the chance to see great movies on a light budget. The Theater was opened in 1976 just to run Star Wars and has since expanded to eight screens and finally went to second-run movies. At the Carmike 8 you often will find a friendly staff, managed by Justin Kettle, who will be glad to tell you amusing stories about the theater and the rest of Clarksville while you are there. Going to the movies should be on the agenda for everyone next semester, especially with huge releases like The Grudge 2, Saw 3, and Casino Royale on their way into theaters. These hits and other might just make going to the movies worth the expensive candy and long lines.✦
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
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Live music scene stikes a chord SHANNA MOSS/STAFF
Local venues host differing grooves By Shanna Moss Staff Writer
Austin Peay State University is only 45 minutes from “Music City USA,” and with that comes certain advantages.While some drive to Nashville for its local music scene, a large portion of college students and community members stay right here in Clarksville, where live music is always blasting. Clarksville offers many different venues for live music. The Warehouse, The Front Page Deli, Choppers, The Spot and newly opened Bar 103 all offer live music on a regular basis. The Warehouse, owned by Mike Souza, is located at 20 McClure St. just off Riverside Drive. It’s open from 9 p.m to 3 a.m and has a cover charge of $5. They offer karaoke on Wednesday, originals and heavy music on Thursday, and a range of Southern rock to today’s Top 40 rock on Friday and Saturday. Some of the bands that play at The Warehouse include: Mike Robinson, P. Jones, Hollowed Soul,August Christopher, Southern Smoke, The Sizzling Happy Family and Dean Hall, who is currently on tour with Gretchen Wilson. Many tribute bands play at the Warehouse. The Warehouse offers specials to APSU students over 21, including 25-cent drafts and hot wings every Thursday until midnight and free pool. The Friday and Saturday night special is penny drafts until 10 p.m. “(The Warehouse) is relatively laid back and almost a family environment,” said Sam Larkins, a 19-year-old freshman. Bar 103 is a relatively new place located at 103 Legion Street. Closed only on Sundays, Bar 103 also offers live music. Monday is singer/songwriter night with John Winters. The Sizzling Happy Family, Criss Cheatham, P. Jones, Mike Robinson, John Winters, Big Nancy and Casey Harris have all played at Bar
103. Live music starts at 10 p.m. and they offer 2-for-1 drinks until 11 p.m., $1.50 domestic beer and $3 drafts. The Front Page Deli, or the Deli as it known to the college crowd, is owned by Angela Greenfield and located on Franklin Street in downtown Clarksville. Monday is Texas Hold’em poker beginning at 6:30 p.m. and also football night, seasonally. Server appreciation night is Tuesday, along with open mic night with Ben Wilson.Working Women’s Wednesday from 5-7 p.m., along with bluegrass music with The Holt Brothers featuring APSU’s own Dr. Stuart Bonnington, professor of psychology. The Deli is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m.to last call at midnight, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.until last call,which is usually between midnight and 2 a.m. Anyone with an APSU ID gets a 10percent food discount. Patrons over 21 get in free,and those under 21 must pay a $20 cover charge on Friday and Saturday. “They always have something for everyone,” said Brandi Beasley, a 23-year-old junior at APSU. Choppers, owned by Keith Rogers, is located at 1979 Madison Street. They offer a full dining menu, pool tables and live music. Choppers also has $1.25 happy hour drafts, $2 longnecks and 2-for-1 drink specials. It is open Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. and Sundays from noon to 3 a.m. There is no cover charge. Some of the bands that have played at Choppers include P. Jones, Mike Robinson, Big Nancy, Hitch, Mystery, Tim Daley and Joel Brown. The music ranges from classic rock to country. “A bar takes on the personality of the owner,” said Ken Glaser, 41, from Nebraska. “You feel welcome when you walk through the doors at Choppers. The people are friendly and great.” Glaser is a drummer for Howie Felter. The Spot, owned by Russel “Buzz” Marx and Gabriele Steele, is located at 1148 College
FOR MORE • For an in-depth Q & A with P. Jones, a local band with national coverage, visit www.theallstate.com.
Street. They offer a full menu, pool tables, live music and happy hour from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. with $1.50 domestics. The Spot is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. with a cover charge on weekends of $5 for 21 and up and $10 for 18-20 year olds. “The Spot is so small inside that when it gets too crowded in there we’ll have a huge
tent set up outside in the parking lot with tables and chairs and the band will play out there,” said Steele. The Spot’s music is mainly acoustic because the stage is so small. Criss Cheatham,Wes Newborn from P. Jones, Joel Brown and Mike Robinson have all played at the Spot. “For being a small place, it has a great atmosphere,” says Wayne Phipps, 26, from Clarksville. “It’s like a big family.” So if you’re looking for great live music and a fun place to hang out, remember Clarksville has live music for all tastes.✦
YoungLife is Coming to Clarksville! If you have been a YoungLife leader before or were involved in YoungLife in High School and are interested in becoming a YoungLife leader, call Casey Combs at 931-206-6863 or email caseyjcombs@yahoo.com
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2006
Hungry? Here’s your comprehensive guide:
Phone numbers area code (931)
University Area • Blackhorse Pub & Brewery-132 Franklin Street, 552-3726. Take out available. • Blondie’s-135 Franklin St., 645-9725. • Brunie’s-101 Legion St., 645-8414. Take out available. • Burrito Bungalow-140 University Ave., 503-0864. Delivers to campus. • Casablanca Restaurant-870 Kraft St., 647-6944. Take out available. • Chi-Town Hot Dogs-1057 S Riverside Drive, 920-5100. Take out available. • Frank’s Hamburger-106 N Second St., 645-6216. Take out available. • Frescos-541 Franklin St., Newly opened. • Front Page Deli-105 Franklin St., 542-9066. APSU discount on food • Gs Pancake House-803 S. Riverside Drive, 648-4939. Take out available • Ice House Café-118 University Ave., 572-9799. Delivers to campus. • Johnny’s Burgers & Pizza- 428 College St., 647-4545. Take out available. • Kelly’s Big Burger-405 N Riverside Drive, 647-0985. Take out available. • New China Buffet-664 N Riverside Drive, 553-8355. APSU discount • O’Charley’s-674 N. Riverside Drive, 552-7800. Take out available. • Panini’s-136 Franklin St., 920-4747. Take out available. Also in the area:
• KFC • McDonalds • ShoneysAPSU discount •Subway- 931-552-9297 Delivers to campus
• Taco Bell • Waffle House • Wendys • Arby’s • Burger King • Dairy Queen
Exit 1 • Always Teryaki-251 Tiny Town Road, 431-4447 • Ribb Doctorx BBQ-1815 Tiny Town Road, 906-4440. • Sam’s Gyro Café-3863 Trenton Road
Fort Campbell Area • Cumberland Grill 2-1345 Fort Campbell Blvd.,221-0340. • El Toro Mexican Restaurant-1200 Fort Campbell Blvd., 553-4272. • Gs Pancake House-2018 Fort Campbell Blvd., 648-1271. • Golden Wok-1339 Fort Campbell Blvd., 906-5666. • Maria’s Wagon Wheel-1205 Fort Campbell Blvd., 552-0354. • Momo Korean BBQ-1913 Fort Campbell Blvd.,906-1942. • New Korea Rest.-2030 Fort Campbell Blvd., 645-6479. • New York Pizza Dept.- 431-6973. • Ruby Tuesday-1827 Fort Campbell Blvd., 221-0330. • Samuri Sushi Bar-1302 Fort Campbell Blvd., 906-4411. • Wok & Roll-1611 Fort Campbell Blvd., 552-8000. • Yamato Steakhouse-2501 Fort Campbell Blvd.,431-0222. • Sam’s Gyro Café-3095 Fort Campbell Blvd., 431-9303. Also in the area: • Arby’s • Burger King • 2 Dominos • Hardees • KFC • Krystal
• 2 McDonalds • Sonic • 2 Subway • Taco Bell • 2 Waffle House • 2 Wendys
Madison Street • Cancun Mexican Rest.-1820 Madison St., 647-1493. • Choppers Roadhouse-1979 Madison St., 552-3849. • Cumberland Grille-1503 Madison St., 572-1002. • Don Pancho Mexican Restaurant.-2365 Madison St., 551-9929 • Hong Kong Wok-1820 Madison St, 906-0188. • Jersey Mike’s Submarines-1960 Madison St., 906-5001. • Mr Gattis Pizza-1807 Madison St., 647-7728. • New China Buffet -2355 Madison St., 552-9969. • Papa Johns-1485 Madison St., 551-3000. • Pizza Hut-1959 Madison St., 645-5913. • Rose Garden-512 Madison St., 906-1000. • Ruby Tuesday-2239 Madison St., 552-1278. • Whitt’s Barbeque-2206 Madison St., 503-1155. Also in the area: • Arby’s • Burger King • Captains D’s
• Hardees • 2 McDonalds • KFC
• 2 Subways • Wendys
• Dominos Delivers to campus 931-552-0030
Exit 4 • Applebees-3066 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 551-8020. • Casablanca-2121Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 551-9050. • Chilli’s Bar and Grill-2127 Lowes Drive, 552-1834. • Coney Island-2801 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 645-4847. • Cracker Barrel-200 Cracker Barrel Drive, 645-1446. • Fire Mountain-2702 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 647-9792. • Golden Corral-2811 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 906-9101. • Hananoki Japanese Sushi-211 Lowes Drive, 647-0999. • Harbor Café-2131 Lowes Drive, 906-0188. • Jade Dragon Chinese -110 Dunbar Cave Road, 6477711. • The Lodge- 3025 Mr. C Drive, 920-0420. • Logan’s Roadhouse-3072 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 6458333. • The Looking Glass-329 Warfield Blvd., 552-6344. • Longhorn’s-2788 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 551-3800. • May’s Woks-2801 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 645-9955. • O’Charley’s-2792 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 552-6335. • Olive Garden-2782 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 552-2585. • Outback -2790 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 552-2900. • Pizza Hut-1901 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 645-1111. • Ponderosa-3047 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 552-9303. • Rafferty’s-2813 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 553-0457. • Red Lobster-2838 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 645-9872. • Ribs & Burgers -2099 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 645-8115. • Toreros Fine Mexican Food-2088 Lowes Drive, 542-5777. • Whitt’s Barbeque-2030 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 503-0515. • Wilson’s Catfish-2560 Wilma Rudolph Blvd.-552-2342. • Fire Mountain-2702 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 647-9792. • Golden Corral-2811 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., 906-9101. Also in the area: • Burger King • Captain D’s • Dominos 931-552-3355 • KFC • Krystal • Long John Silvers
• 2 McDonalds • Shoney’s • Sonic • Taco Bell • Waffle House • Wendys • White Castle ✦