Best of Carolina 2024

Attributions

Editor-In-Chief Advertising Advisor

Tyler Sprague John Burbage

Chloe Ehlers

Lily Ferguson

Sarah Scarborough

Krista Larson

Savannah Nagy

David Olsen

Bridget Tracy

Addison Scott

Francesca Cumello

Maddie Lee

Alicia Caracciolo

Jenna Swenson

Zoe Baskerville

Sophie Wurster

Ariana Herbas

Biffy Skeels

Delaney Flanagan

Kylie Kurinsky

Sofia Sabatino

Marisa Tartamella

Dear Best of Carolina 2024 readers,

Let the games begin! Best of Carolina 2024 is here, and it’s time to award the gold medals! This year, we decided to hold our own Olympics, celebrating the best of the best that Columbia has to offer. Drawing inspiration from the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics, we pitted multi-time champions against emerging up-and-comers in all 52 of our categories!

This edition has it all. From underdog stories to champions defending their titles, it’s all thanks to you. Best of Carolina is one of the most unique publications produced by Garnet Media Group because its contents are directly influenced by YOU — the nominator, the voter and the reader. Each year, we gather your nominations and votes to ensure that your favorites are featured on a podium of excellence.

Personally, acting as the editor-in-chief of Best of Carolina has been an incredible experience. Diving into the core of the Columbia community’s institutions, businesses and organizations has helped me develop a greater appreciation for the work, time and effort that they all give so freely. Every single winner featured in this publication deserves an Olympic gold medal.

I’d like to thank the GMG marketing team — writers, photographers, promotions and copy editors — for their dedication and exemplary work and Assistant Director of Student Media Sydney Cranmer for her guidance and supernatural editing abilities. A special thanks to the GMG designers and their unique ability to make our crazy ideas come to life.

With that, there’s no need to sprint to the finish line while reading Best of Carolina 2024. Enjoy each and every gold medalist!

Best,

Tyler Sprague

BEST S T U D E

B Y J E N N A SWENSON

For 26 years, Dance Marathon has maintained its title as the largest studentrun philanthropic organization at the University of South Carolina. This studentrun organization works to raise money for Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, with which it’s affiliated. According to its website, USCDM has raised over $8 million for Prisma Health Children’s Hospital.

Students in the organization spend a year working intimately to raise money through different events, and their efforts are celebrated at the organization’s annual spring event. The event is a 24-hour day of games, contests, entertainment and, most importantly, dancing! All USC students are welcome and encouraged to participate. Another aspect of the main event is the meet and greet with families that have benefited from Dance Marathon’s efforts.

The Dance Marathon website showcases stories of children who have experienced medical hardships within their first few years of life. One of these stories is that of Joelle White.

Joelle White joined the Dance Marathon Family in January 2022 and has been a member ever since.

When she was just two months old, her mom took her to the pediatrician after she showed symptoms of a common cold. Suddenly, her fever spiked, and she was taken to the PICU and put in a medically-induced coma since she could not breathe on her own. However, a couple of days later, White was able to come off the ventilator and diagnosed with Group B sepsis, an incredibly rare disease. She recovered in a room donated and funded by USDCM and is now a happy and healthy two-year-old who loves to dance!

This organization is an amazing opportunity to raise money for needy children and make lifelong connections along the way.

“I joined Dance Marathon my freshmen year for a sense of community on campus,” second-year student Alivia Derks said. “Since then, I have met so many amazing people and continue to support the child life program at Prisma Health Hospital.”

Beyond its fundraising efforts, Dance Marathon is more than just a philanthropic organization. This is a space where students can meet and connect with others — a space for them to grow as individuals.

First-year elementary education student Brynn Phillips spoke animatedly of her experiences in the program.

“I have made new friends that I absolutely love, and I cannot wait to continue doing Dance Marathon throughout the rest of my years here,” Phillips said. “Being able to help has been my way of giving back!”

Students here at USC should join Dance Marathon and aid in its efforts to raise money for sick children in need. This organization offers the chance to be a part of a fantastic cause and an opportunity to meet some great people along the way.

To bond over a good cause is an amazing thing, and it’s no wonder why Dance Marathon is this year’s Best Student Organization.

Photos by Dylan McCants | GMG

Pizza Club

Best New Student Organization

By Zoe Baskerville

IN ITS INAUGURAL YEAR ON campus, Pizza Club has already managed to build a robust family environment centered around a shared love for food.

Originally started as a joke between friends, the organization began with a simple premise, where each week, club members gather at a local pizza restaurant to collectively review the pepperoni pizza. They then share a 10-star rating on the club’s social media.

Pizza Club hopes to foster a diverse community of students, who can share the joy of eating in a fun group atmosphere where everyone is welcome by focusing on one simple, widely-loved food.

Despite the lighthearted energy of the group, club President Ross Horton also emphasizes the greater importance of having such a club on campus. After two years working as a line cook at the now-closed Granby Grill, Horton saw

firsthand how pivotal it is to support local restaurants. “It’s really hard seeing a business fail,” Horton said.

“Granby Grill was a place where everyone in the area could gather and be together. When it closed, it just felt like something was missing in the community.”

Pizza Club takes pride in fostering supportive relationships between its members and local community businesses, making a difference one bite at a time.

Gamecock Hockey Club Best Sports Club

By Maddie Lee

AMONG USC’S 34 CLUB SPORTS, Gamecock Club

Hockey certainly stands out and is most deserving of the inaugural Best Sport Club award. Established in 2001, Cock Hockey has not only found a home in its ice rink in Irmo but also in the hearts of students and fans from the Columbia area.

“Every home game is something where fans show out,” Cock Hockey President Bobby DiCicco said. “When

people wear their jerseys around campus or to football games, it’s really cool to see people supporting us.”

Although they are now showing great success, the team is still humble in its roots, being solely funded based on merchandise sales.

According to DiCicco, the team is currently working with the school to gain a piece of the endowment fund with the hopes of securing land on campus for a new facility in

the next five years.

“I think the team has put in a lot of work, and it’s nice to see that it’s finally being recognized through the school, and hopefully we will be able to reach a broader audience of students,” DiCicco said.

Cock Hockey finished its regular season play with a neutral sight matchup versus Clemson at Bon Secours Arena in Greenville, SC — taking on a feat that no other club sport at USC has done before.

College of Arts and Sciences

Joe Jones

School Of Earth, Ocean, & Environment

Darla Moore School of Business

Susan Brinson Accounting Katrice Branner Management Science

College of Education

Paul Chaplin Instruction & Teacher Education

College of Engineering and Computing

Jeremiah “JJ” Shepherd Computer Sciences

College of Information and Communications

Dr. Kevin Hull

School of Journalism

Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Kevin Brown Law Office

School of Music

Jay Jacobs

School of Music

College of Nursing

Sabra Custer

College of Nursing

College of Pharmacy

Dr. Michael Wyatt Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences

Arnold School of Public Health

Kersten Cope

Arnold School of Public Health

College of Social Work

Dr. Rhonda Dinovo

College of Social Work

Honors College

Cameron “Cami” Reid

Honors College

Best On-Campus Residence

650 Lincoln

Best On-Campus Eats Chick-Fil-A

Thomas Cooper Library

Best Study Spot

By Jenna Swenson

DO YOU HAVE A PAPER to write or need a quiet place to study? Head to this year’s winner for Best Study Spot on campus, Thomas Cooper Library.

Located near Greene Street and the student union, Thomas Cooper Library is the best place for USC students to get their work done. Its long hours of operation make the library available and accessible for students with busy class schedules. Thomas Cooper

is also large and has seven different floors to choose from.

One of the most unique features of Thomas Cooper is the variety each floor has to offer. Levels one through three are designated quiet floors for those who thrive in silent environments. Level

five has a graduate student study area, and the main level offers tables to study with your group of friends and a Starbucks for when you need a caffeine boost.

Another great feature is the ability to reserve study rooms, which are scattered around the different floors. Here, students can meet up with friends to work on homework together.

Thomas Cooper, or T-Coop to many, is the ideal study spot for any work you need to get done. Whether it’s group projects for a class or a study session before a big exam, this library is the place to be.

Photos by Tyler Sprague

Kappa Kappa Gamma

Best Sorority

By Francesca Cumello

THE EPSILON KAPPA chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma — a group of driven, philanthropic, kind-hearted women — has won Best of Carolina 2024’s Best Sorority. Founded in 1870 in Monmouth, IL and brought to the University of South Carolina in February of 1967, KKG has an outstanding presence on campus.

As are all Greek organizations at USC, Kappa Kappa Gamma is a charitable organization in addition to social. They are

involved with two philanthropic initiatives: the JED Foundation and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation.

The Jed Foundation is a nonprofit that supports and cares for teens and young adults who struggle with emotional and mental health, with the ultimate goal of preventing suicide. The Kappa Foundation uplifts its members, providing resources and support to preserve its

values and further educational and leadership development.

Kappa Kappa Gamma has an active presence on campus, hosting popular activities such as Neon Nights, formerly known as Kappa Disko. In the last year, KKG raised $44,301 toward the JED foundation.

Current President Alexa Gyllensvaan believes in the true value of the Kappa community, for its members “strive to follow their own incredible

dreams” and “stand for creating meaningful connections with others.”

Gyllensvaan cites her sisters as “always seeking new challenges to grow and learn together to continue inspiring positive change wherever we go,” clearly demonstrating the uplifting spirit of sisterhood within Kappa Kappa Gamma.

Theta Chi

Best Fraternity

By Zoe Baskerville

DESPITE COMMON stereotypes of campus Greek life, Theta Chi is far more than a frivolous social club.

The Iota Phi chapter was established at the University of South Carolina in 2015, making it one of the youngest on campus today. Within less than a decade, this chapter has distinguished itself

now winning the title of Best Fraternity for the second year in a row.

Theta Chi frequently partners with the United States Organizations (USO), the nation’s preeminent nonprofit benefiting members of the U.S. military and their families. The fraternity also volunteers with the Keeping Midlands Beautiful initiative and hosts blood drives on campus.

Standing strongly by Theta Chi’s motto, “An Assisting Hand,” the members of Iota Phi support each other’s personal development into impressive young men. Outside of chapter activities, you’ll find the brothers involved in all corners of campus. They serve as University 101 Peer Leaders, volunteer with USC Dance Marathon and work as undergraduate research assistants.

With each new pledge class, Theta Chi prides itself on fostering brotherhood, leadership and service to the Carolina community and beyond.

Congratulations to College of Social Work MSW Program Director Rhonda DiNovo for the well-deserved honor of being named Best Professor for the College of Social Work. Her leadership exempli es excellence!

B Y S O P HIE WURSTER

The Belgian Waffle Truck has been a Soda City staple since 2014 — so winning Best Soda City Vendor for the fifth year in a row doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

Originally from Liege, Belgium, the owners, Chef Jean-Louis and Yvette Ledent, have brought authentic Belgian waffles to Columbia. Their waffles, made from scratch, are a chewy, fresh staple for everyone. Whether you like your waffle topped with fruit, extra pearl sugar or chocolate, the Belgian Waffle Truck will give you a taste of Belgium. “Fluffy and thick yeasty waffles are very popular in Liege, our hometown,” Jean-Louis said. “People there eat a waffle at any time of the day, from little shops along the streets, where they cook your waffle from scratch.”

Jean-Louis and Yvette wanted to recreate that atmosphere and culture within Columbia, and the Belgian Waffle Truck was the way to do it. “Quality, consistency, good service, authenticity are our most important priorities in our business,” Jean-Louis said.

The Belgian Waffle Truck serves a variety of freshly made and authentic waffles to the students of USC and the people of Columbia who support the business.

They serve more than just traditional waffles. You can also order Sandwich Waffles, which come with your choice of protein, cheese and topping like gravy or bacon.

The plain warm waffle is Yvette’s favorite menu item and also happens to be “the way most people like them in Belgium.” However, their most popular menu items are the Strawbwaffle and The Breakfast Waffle.

The Strawbwaffle is a warm waffle topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It is a signature menu item that can be topped with Nutella for $0.50.

The Breakfast Waffle is a savory version of the waffle, which includes a pork patty, fried egg and white gravy.

If you want something simple, you can grab a “Sweet,” which is their authentic pearl sugar Liege Waffle. These can be topped with whipped cream, Nutella, warm chocolate, peanut butter or homemade caramel for just $0.50.

With their most expensive item being just $10, the Belgian Waffle Truck offers everyone an inexpensive taste of the authentic Belgian sweet

treat. Being located in Columbia makes the prices of their items reasonable and affordable.

“Our prices are based on the fact that we are able to keep our food cost low by preparing most of the items ourselves and, of course, on the quality of waffles we sell,” Jean-Louis said.

After being a Soda City staple for almost 10 years, all Columbia residents should try the Belgian Waffle Truck.

“If you want to taste a delicious, unique and authentic Belgian delicacy served with a big smile at an affordable price, then come try The Belgian Waffle Truck!” Jean-Louis said.

Photos by Tyler Sprague | GMG

Bee Bottom Art

Editor’s Pick - Soda City Vendor

By Tyler Sprague

WHIMSICAL, SERENE AND SOMETIMES a little spooky but always miniature, Bee Bottom Art is one of the most unique Soda City vendors present on Main Street every Saturday.

Stacey Black, owner of Bee Bottom Art, has been painting miniature watercolor and ink creations since 2016.

“There are no rules in my art. There may be a T-rex walking a dog by an ice cream shop or houses perched on the leaves of a tall flower. I like to play with scale and the absurd,” Black said.

Black has loved both miniatures and art since she was a child. She pursued this while studying studio art at the University of South Carolina and spent several years as a graphic designer. After 13 years as a stay-at-home mother, Black returned to making art quite unexpectedly.

“On a whim, I decided to engage in a daily art challenge on Instagram, which led me to trying out watercolor for the first time,” she said. “I found that painting with watercolor greatly relieved the anxiety that I have dealt with all of my life.”

A few months later, she was inspired by a friend to dive into miniature art.

“I loved the challenge of creating in a tiny format, and it brought back the feeling of whimsy I had felt as a child when I had adored miniatures,” Black said.

Black has been a Soda City vendor since September 2020. Through the weekly market, she has met many friends, both fellow vendors and customers.

“Having made these connections has given me this great sense of community,” she said. “We are truly lucky to have the Soda City Market in Columbia.”

Black plans to bring Bee Bottom Art to other pop-up markets this spring, including the Cottontown Art Crawl on March 9, 2024.

When asked if she had a message for aspiring artists, Black said, “You just have to find what you enjoy, even if it’s weird, even if it’s silly, and keep working at it often. If you decide to share your art with the world, you will find your people. Art is valuable to our society, and you are an important contribution.”

Photos by Tyler Sprague | GMG

Barefoot Campus Outfitters

Best Clothing Store

By Francesca Cumello

ALL MERCH-LOVING

University of South Carolina students will be pleased to hear that Barefoot Campus Outfitters has won Best Clothing Store. The company started growing in 2002 and has been expanding ever since, offering stylish, quality apparel for over two decades.

While one may assume that Barefoot’s target market is college students — and this may be true to some extent — they also sell clothing for Mom,

Dad, Grandma and Grandpa. They are ensuring that “swaggy Mee-Maw vibes” are out in full force. Even brothers and sisters aren’t excluded from the wide range of merchandise.

Another particular draw to Barefoot Campus Outfitters is the random giveaways that help students stock up on their school spirit gear. If students are lucky enough to be on Lincoln Street when the announcement is posted on Instagram, they’re in for a treat.

Further, they don’t simply sell your typical USC merch. Although the bookstore is a tried-and-true place to stock up, Barefoot Campus Outfitters’ clothing has an extra edge in the market for trendy finds. Even one visit isn’t enough because they constantly release new items of all varieties. Don’t pass up a chance to check out what Barefoot has to offer!

Established in 2012, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles is a soul food staple in Columbia. Well known for its signature chicken and waffle dish, Kiki’s also offers home-cooked soul food and dessert. Visited by celebrities such as Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton and Dawn Staley, Kiki’s is a must-try in Columbia.

Founder Kitwanda “Kiki” Cyrus said she had always wanted to own her own restaurant and has a passion for cooking.

“I used to cook when I was younger with my grandmother and my mom,” Cyrus said, reflecting on her experiences in the kitchen as a child.

After meeting her husband and co-founder Tyrone Cyrus, the pair visited a soul food restaurant in Atlanta. As people waited two hours to try the well-known dishes, Kiki and Tyrone realized this was something that Columbia needed.

“We stood in line for two hours. I was like, ‘You know what? This would be a good thing to bring to Columbia.’ So that’s when we came back and started brainstorming, started coming up with a name and whatnot for the restaurant,” Cyrus said.

BEST

The menu currently consists of breakfast items, appetizers, soul food meals, seafood, sides and desserts. With over 50 items to choose from, there’s something for everybody.

The most popular item on the menu is Kiki’s Chicken & Waffle, which comes with one Belgian waffle served with four fried wings or two chicken breasts. Customers can also try the famous red velvet waffle with cream cheese frosting.

Kiki’s Soul Food Plate is another popular crowdpleaser, which includes four wings, two sides and a corn muffin.

“It might be up there with the chicken and waffles because a lot of people love it,” Cyrus said. “It’s a very filling plate and people enjoy it.”

General Manager Nicolas Frank’s favorite menu item is Ty Ty’s Fried Fish Soul Food Plate. Great for those who enjoy seafood, this item includes two fried whiting served with two sides and a corn muffin.

Kiki’s menu wasn’t always this extensive. As the business grew, Kiki and Tyrone listened to customer feedback and added more items, such as mac and cheese and collard greens.

“We listen to them and answer their requests by adding those items on the menu,” Cyrus said.

Kiki’s has a strong focus on community and takes pride in treating its customers like family. The restaurant also hosts family-friendly events like open mic nights, live jazz and other entertainment.

“What makes Kiki’s so special is the friendly and family atmosphere that the staff extends to the guests daily,” Frank said.

“We just love what we do and love to provide good food to our community,” Cyrus said.

Experience Kiki’s for yourself at their Northeast Columbia and Harbison Area locations and see why it’s this year’s Best Black Owned Business winner.

Photos by Jada Mack | GMG

Congratulations to Paul Chaplin on being named Best Professor in the Best of Carolina awards!

The College of Education is proud of the work you do in preparing our students for their most important roles as educators. Your hard work is recognized by the entire university, and your award is well deserved.

sc.edu/education

BEST S T U D E N T

S S

B Y M ADDIE LEE

It should come as no surprise to anyone on campus that the Breakfast Jawn has won Best Student Run Business in its first year of operation. It quickly became a fan favorite with customizable menu items such as bowls, sandwiches and burritos, and more recently started offering weekly specials.

Co-founder Logan Fowler said that he had remembered going through the Best of Carolina voting process his freshman and sophomore year, but was shocked when he found out about the Breakfast Jawn’s nomination since he never realized that there was a student-run business category.

When the Breakfast Jawn opened on Feb. 21, 2023, the business operated out of an old hot dog stand on the Humanities side of campus. The stand had been gifted to them by Aramark, USC’s food partner. They spent only a few weeks in the stand before they had outgrown the capacity for the area.

“We had our little system, in our own corner of campus, and we were getting customers. It was exactly what we thought it would be. We had no idea that it would end up like this,” said cofounder Jacob Matthew.

In October 2023, the Breakfast Jawn launched its next chapter in the form of a food truck.

“It was the best thing that has happened to us,” Fowler said.

With the new venture came a new location, new customers and new responsibilities. Unfortunately, come November the restaurant had to close for the semester due to needed maintenance on the truck.

The long-anticipated reopening of the Breakfast Jawn was not entirely out of reach. With the spring semester coming up, the store teased on its Instagram page what fans had been hoping for. Thursday, Jan. 11 marked the Breakfast Jawn’s return to Greene Street.

“It was like we never left,” Fowler said. “A large amount of our business is still freshmen, so we didn’t have to attract a new crop. It was great to see people super excited, and the transition was easy.”

While looking forward to its first anniversary, it also brought back memories of how they started.

“Logan and I were roommates, and I was just looking for a job,” Matthew said. “I knew the basics (of running a restaurant) and thought, ‘Why not do it myself?’”

Fowler had taken a few classes in the Hospitality department as part of his minor and reached

out to a former professor for help. This was the connection the pair needed to really get started.

When separately asked about what advice they would give to students looking to start a business, both Fowler and Matthew had similar answers. “There’s a lot of people at this university that are willing to help you, so you just need to ask,” Matthew said. “It’s cool to know that there’s resources on campus,” Fowler said. “There’s room and resources to get involved on campus.”

Looking forward, the pair want to ensure that their legacy continues long after their graduation next year. They now have six employees that they have trained alongside them. “We’re just figuring it out one day at a time,” Matthew said. “There’s only so much you can do to plan for the future.”

From not knowing how to run a business to winning Best Student Run Business in a single year, the future definitely seems bright for the Breakfast Jawn.

Photos by Tyler Sprague | GMG

USC Barnes & Noble

Best Bookstore

All Good Books

Editor’s Pick – Best Bookstore

CONGRATULATIONS DR. JAY JACOBS

VOTED BEST PROFESSOR IN THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Dr. Jacobs is the Associate Professor of Music, Associate Director of Bands and The Carolina Band Director. With the help of his leadership, The Carolina Band has been selected to perform in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!

Congrats!

Thank you for voting two years in a row!

Best vegetarian/vegan option:

Best SWEET TEA

BEST ON CAMPUS EATS:

FRESH GREENE'S CHICK-FIL-A

Cantina 76 Best Mexican Food

By Maddie Lee

ONE OF COLUMBIA’S most consistent favorites over the years has been Cantina 76, which, once again, won Best of Carolina’s Best Mexican Food. You simply can’t go wrong with the restaurant’s handcrafted margaritas, specialty tacos and overall environment. With two locations in Columbia — one on Main Street and one on Devine Street — it is a very convenient option for locals and students.

The menu offers a wide variety of starters, such as the Tres Hombres and Dirty Queso, but also includes fan-favorite dishes and famous tacos. The rotating specials menu always gives patrons something new to look forward to alongside their favorite classics.

Although hours of operation and specials vary by location, each restaurant has something interesting to look forward to. For example, Cantina 76 on Main Street participates in First

Fresh Greene’s Best Vegan/Vegetarian

By Tyler Sprague

SOURCING FRESH, HEALTHY, organic and local ingredients, Fresh Greene’s has become a staple of USC’s all-you-care-toeat dining hall experiences and won Best Vegan/ Vegetarian restaurant.

While it offers comfort foods, grilled classics and stunning desserts, Fresh Greene’s is best known for its vegan and vegetarian options. Some of the standout dishes include the vegan Frito pie, the avocado veggie wrap and (my

personal favorite) the spicy vegetable gumbo.

Fresh Greene’s also serves as one of Carolina Food Co.’s leading practitioners of sustainability and responsible sourcing initiatives. Directly next to the entrance is the dining hall’s hydroponic farm that grows greens, herbs, microgreens and edible flowers. Fresh Greene’s also practices local and humane purchasing of ingredients, meat and produce.

Thursday and offers half-priced margaritas starting at 4 p.m.

Cantina 76 is a perfect spot to hang out with friends, get drinks with coworkers after a long day at work or go out for a perfect date night.

From its lunchtime deli menu to its “chef’s table” dinner options, Fresh Greene’s aims to provide students with the freshest vegan and vegetarian options on campus.

B

Breakfast is known by many to be the most important meal of the day. Getting started with a nutritious, delicious meal is vital, but sometimes cooking is challenging. On the days when you are feeling lethargic, look no further than the Flying Biscuit Café.

The Flying Biscuit Café opened in Five Points in 2022 and has quickly become a staple breakfast and brunch restaurant. The brand has 25 restaurants throughout the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida and Texas.

There is a wide variety of menu options, and it offers indoor and outdoor seating. The owners are happy that parking is readily available beside their storefront as well.

The food at the Flying Biscuit Café is a fan favorite, but the atmosphere is what makes the restaurant special. With vibrant decorations and a welcoming staff, it is easy to feel at home here.

Regular customer Christopher Burkett, USC’s executive director for student services, has only positive things to say about the restaurant.

“I like the more intimate feel,” Burkett said. “I am really drawn to cordial customer service as

well as those who take the opportunity to get to know customers.”

The Flying Biscuit Café is almost always packed on weekends but on weekdays, regular customers can further connect with restaurant employees.

Servers frequently talk to customers about local Gamecock news and get to know repeat customers. Burkett frequents the restaurant two to three times per week. When he is away for some time, he says that servers always enthusiastically greet him when he returns.

The restaurant is a community favorite, and the owners spend a lot of time giving back to the community. The Flying Biscuit Café is a partner of Gamecock Athletics, often providing breakfast to various sports teams throughout their seasons. This January, the restaurant’s owners, Kevin White and John Barth, were presented with the game ball at the women’s basketball game against Kentucky.

Barth has also partnered with the College of Education’s “Woo Woo Wagon,” a wagon that Burkett and his colleagues bring around their building to share snacks and spread joy with any faculty, staff and students that are around. The

restaurant provided discounted biscuits for the wagon.

The Flying Biscuit Café is a part of specific meal plans offered to students. They also employ several students as servers. Barth and White ensure that they are accessible to their customers inside and outside of the restaurant.

“The owners make themselves available to the clientele, which is something I noticed immediately,” Burkett said. “They are present, visible out in the restaurant layout. They talk frequently with customers, which I like.”

Burkett’s connection to the restaurant is beyond that of the traditional regular customer. He taught White while he studied for his master’s program at a different institution. Both White and Burkett are still in the educational field.

The Flying Biscuit Café is a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

“It is really, really neat to see that everyone at work is a team to fulfill that breakfast niche for individuals who want it,” Burkett said.

Cool Beans Coffee Co. Best Coffee Shop

By Zoe Baskerville

YEAR AFTER YEAR,

Cool Beans Coffee Co. captures the heart of the Carolina community.

This year’s Best Coffee Shop, Cool Beans is located just steps away from USC’s historic Horseshoe. Open daily until 10 p.m. Cool Beans offers a home away from home for Columbia locals and college students looking for a peaceful study spot.

Located on the upper level of a renovated house, the coffee

shop’s exterior is humble yet welcoming. Inside, between walls covered with works by local artists and shelves full of board games, all of the shop’s regulars sit planted in their favorite nooks, and it’s hard not to feel at home in Cool Beans.

An extensive menu of drinks and light foods ensures something for anyone’s taste. For a little pick me up, try the Perfect Man, a double shot breve with Irish cream. If coffee

isn’t your speed, you can just as easily enjoy a smooth hot cocoa, tea or Italian soda. If you’ve worked up an appetite for a Southern classic in between classes, try the grilled pimento cheese on focaccia.

While the business keeps a low profile, its presence is felt strongly in the community. Student organizations frequently partner with the business to conduct percent nights and other fundraising events. At its Wednesday open

mics, Cool Beans hosts a range of poets, singers and artists who bring life to the already vibrant character of the shop.

The Gourmet Shop

Best Lunch

By Tyler Sprague

FROM COOKWARE TO CAVIAR, The Gourmet Shop has provided Five Points with the finest selections of eats and gifts since 1979. The shop’s cafe offers both indoor and alfresco dining, with stunning brunch and lunch offerings seven days a week.

The Gourmet Shop has classics such as charcuterie boards and paninis in addition to its signature chicken salad and brunch cocktails. The food is directly complimented and

elevated by the intimate and inviting atmosphere.

After your meal, don’t forget to peruse The Gourmet Shop’s market and its selection of specialty foods, exotic spices, high-quality cooking equipment and gift baskets.

One of the most popular aspects of The Gourmet Shop is its selection of artisanal cheese. While you peruse, the shop’s cheesemongers are available to help you find the

CONGRATS!

perfect pairings of cheese, wine and meat for any occasion.

The Gourmet Shop is a culinary destination and a cherished institution of Columbia’s Five Points district. With its combination of delectable cafe dishes and an array of artisanal market offerings, The Gourmet Shop remains a place where passions for fine food and community converge seamlessly.

Congratulations, Susan Brinson for winning Best Professor in the School of Accounting!

We are proud you are part of the SOA!

Cookout

Best Late Night Eats

By Jenna Swenson

THIS YEAR’S Best Late Night Eats winner is a South Carolina classic that can satisfy anyone’s late-night cravings. Cookout is a classic fast-food restaurant chain that has affordable prices, fresh burgers and a wide variety of shakes to choose from.

Founded in 1989 in Greensboro, NC, Cookout started as a drive-thru-only location. From there, it quickly gained popularity and recognition. In 1999, Cookout

established its motto “Always Fresh, Never Frozen” and vowed to ground and patty its meat every single day, ready to cook. By 2010, the first store opened in Spartanburg, SC — its first store outside of NC.

It may take a while to choose from its large menu. Some of the many dishes it offers are chicken quesadillas, hushpuppies, corn dogs and, of course, their burgers.

But why stop there? Cookout’s

creamery has plenty of unique flavors to choose from. Between its banana pudding shakes to its Cheerwine Float, your sweet tooth will be satisfied.

If you’re looking for a restaurant to fulfill your latenight craving, head to Cookout. It’s open until the early morning hours and readily available to fill your appetite. Don’t f orget to grab a side of its famous Cookout Sauce while you’re at it!

B E S T L O C A L

B Y M A DDIE LEE

Going into its 42nd year, St. Pat’s in Five Points remains a Columbia favorite, and the event is something both college students and locals look forward to. The green fountain isn’t the only thing attracting tens of thousands of people, though. The festival has been able to learn and grow over the years, exciting returning fans but also attracting new ones.

Founded in 1983 as a ploy to boost visibility for the city during the holiday, it was a local alternative to Savannah, GA’s, St. Patrick’s Day festival. Today, St. Pat’s in Five Points is the largest one-day festival in South Carolina, offering not only music but also family-friendly entertainment and food vendors.

“We strive to honor Irish heritage with the help of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. We feature bagpipers, Irish dancers and traditional Irish food items,” Dave Britt, St. Pat’s in Five Points festival chair, said. “This year, we’ve partnered with Lexington’s O’Hara’s Irish Pub for an authentic experience, including a traditional Irish band and the return of green beer.”

When you think about St. Pat’s in Five Points, what comes to mind is most likely the music, but the festival also works to benefit the local area. St. Pat’s contributes over $12 million to the Columbia economy and has raised over a million dollars for local charities.

“One of my favorite aspects is the opportunity the festival provides to give back to local nonprofits,” Heather McDonald, Five Points Merchants Association’s executive director, said. “The support of our volunteers and the organizations they represent is crucial for a successful event, and we couldn’t do it without them.”

The festival is deeply rooted in tradition but strives to improve every year. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Pat’s has become more cherished by the community and has significantly increased attendance and engagement. With a growing market comes more of a need to differentiate itself. This year, St. Pat’s is introducing a mocktail lounge that offers premium cocktails, alcoholfree, of course and a new skateboard demo with a halfpipe skate ramp.

From 5Ks to bands to playgrounds, no matter how you enjoy your weekend, St. Pat’s in Five Points certainly has something for everyone. It’s a way for the city to come together, support one another and listen to artists, such as The War and Treaty and Futurebirds, which are two of this year’s headliners. Experience your favorite local festival on March 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Britt said, “We’re looking forward to making this year’s St. Pat’s in Five Points an unforgettable experience for everyone.”

Photo By Tyler Sprague | GMG

Photo By Emma Wyatt | GMG

Group Therapy

Best Five Points Bar

By Jenna Swenson

SWAP OUT THE leather sofa for an outdoor dance floor, and you’ve turned therapy into Group Therapy — this year’s winner of Best Five Points Bar.

Since 1978, Group Therapy Bar has been a staple of Five Points in Columbia, SC. Its spacious venue and variety of drinks and food are available seven nights a week.

There’s always room for more between the indoor and outdoor bar, allowing for

short wait times. There are also plenty of TVs inside where you can sit and watch any big game.

Group Therapy’s highlight is arguably the outside DJ area where plenty of people can relax and enjoy good music with their friends. There are also more TVs, so you won’t miss a second of the game while you travel between the indoor and outdoor bars. This outdoor pit is the perfect place to socialize and have a great time.

Vista Union

Best Vista Bar

By Zoe Baskerville

NO OTHER SPOT could better exemplify the energy of Columbia’s lively The Vista neighborhood than its very own Vista Union.

Nestled right in the heart of the district, Vista Union serves as a dynamic hub for university students and young professionals alike. Any night you swing by this bar, you’ll find a diverse crowd gathered to enjoy the upscale yet unpretentious vibes that make The Vista so distinct.

Each day of the week features different food and drink specials. On Sundays, you can enjoy 20% off drinks and 50% off all foods, including its famous curly fry Irish nachos. For an especially good time, stop by on Tipsy Tuesdays for $2 tacos, $3 tequila and a highspirited game of bingo.

The bar regularly plays host to various private events, from birthday parties and corporate gatherings to sorority functions and Student Government

This Five Points bar offers a great atmosphere to forget your worries of tomorrow and let loose. There’s a reason it’s been around for so long: having been a fan favorite of the people of Columbia. Group Therapy’s drinks and venue will have you coming back for more until the early hours of the morning!

formals. Its layout, featuring an open floor plan, billiards tables and an outdoor space with cornhole, makes Vista Union the perfect venue for any social event.

Now voted best for the second year in a row, it’s easy to see how Vista Union has effectively captured the attention of its namesake neighborhood.

The third floor of the University of South Carolina’s Capstone dorm building is the namesake of 2024’s Best Local Musician, The Third Floor. Born from a group of friends who lived in the same hall, this up-andcoming band has quickly become a Columbia favorite. Ryan Pellatt (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Neal Goldberg (bass), Nick Guzman (vocals, drums) and recently added member Carter Vogt (lead guitar) have been together for slightly over two years, first playing as a group at the Koger Center in a battle of the bands.

Each member developed a passion for music from a very young age. Pellatt began playing piano when he was 6 years old and continued this throughout his childhood. “It wasn’t until junior year of high school that I started teaching myself guitar and singing,” Pellatt said.

He had a lot of practice over those two years and then “took a year off of school after high school before starting (his) freshman year of college and played guitar every single day.”

Ruminating, he says, “During this time, I really dove into songwriting and would spend my whole days with either a pen and paper or a guitar in

BY

F R A N C E SCA CUMELLO

my hands. By the time I went to college, I had a lot of practice and a lot of songs, which made it very easy to jump into a musical group.”

This lifelong journey has led to great things for The Third Floor, most notably opening for COIN at USC’s Cockstock concert in October 2023. It won’t stop there, though.

“My dream gig would be headlining Red Rocks in Colorado to a sold-out crowd. A huge dream of mine is playing songs with my bandmates to a crowd of people screaming the lyrics back at us,” Pellatt said.

Soon, there will be new lyrics to scream. The Third Floor recently released a new song, “Marlboro Blues,” and has another called “Barcelona” in development. New and old listeners alike should look out for its new releases, which the band hopes to have two or three this semester alone.

This is quite a feat for the band members because they are also full-time students at USC. It’s no easy task balancing being college students and musicians, but Pellatt said they have been able to make it work.

“It certainly gets difficult sometimes, but we are all very driven in both our studies and our music. Most of our gigs and shows happen at night, so there is little conflict with classes. However, we all certainly need to budget our time well so that we can get homework done and study for exams. There have been a few gigs we’ve had to turn down because of school as well as assignments turned in late because of gigs. But overall, there isn’t too much conflict with school and music,” Pellatt said.

If the going ever gets tough, the band can channel motivation from its musical inspirations, ranging from “older acts such as Johnny Cash, Tom Petty, The Band, The Beatles, Chuck Berry as well as newer artists such as Mt. Joy, John Mayer, The Stews, Noah Kahan (and) The Dip.”

Check out The Third Floor at a Columbia concert venue near you and on Instagram @thethirdfloorband, and you can proudly say that you were one of its first fans when the band finally plays Red Rocks in Colorado.

Colonial Life Arena

Best Concert Venue

By Zoe Baskerville

COLONIAL LIFE ARENA

spent 2023 celebrating its 20 successful years as Columbia’s premier live entertainment center. Its success continues into 2024, as it’s been voted Best Concert Venue yet again.

Regularly hosting major national musical and comedic acts, Colonial Life is nothing if not versatile. This past year, big names such as the Jonas Brothers, Janet Jackson and the Eagles graced the concert venue.

Fans routinely fill the arena with electrifying energy each winter to support the men’s and women’s basketball teams that call Colonial Life home. Those seeking a thrill in the off-season of college basketball won’t be disappointed, as events from WWE Smackdown to Monster Jam come to the venue throughout the year.

Owned by the University of South Carolina, the concert venue also plays a crucial role in student life. In the fall

of 2022, Colonial Life hosted Cockstock, a lively homecoming concert featuring headliner T-Pain. Earlier that year, when the women’s basketball team brought home a national championship, the arena hosted a celebratory concert by USC alumnus Darius Rucker. Both events were completely free for students.

In August 2024, Colonial Life Arena will welcome

New Brookland Tavern

Editor’s Pick - Best Concert Venue

By Tyler Sprague

NEW BROOKLAND TAVERN (NBT) is one of the oldest music venues in Columbia and is many people’s pick — mine included — for the Best Concert Venue. Even though its move from the historic West Columbia venue to a much larger building in Five Points has raised many questions about NBT’s future, many still believe NBT’s aura, history and, most importantly, its music are here to stay.

Everyone who has seen a show at New Brookland Tavern has a unique story of their

experience and connection to the venue.

“I have been able to see some of my favorite bands and expand my music taste by going to see live music for cheap and close to home,” USC student, WUSC DJ and former NBT employee Arden Riley said, who also plays occasional DJ sets at NBT. “Performing on the stage I used to sweep and would see some of my musical inspirations play on was surreal.”

Issac Czerniawsky, another USC

student who works the door at New Brookland Tavern, worked at the previous location as well before the venue made the move to Five Points.

“NBT is definitely nostalgic for folks,” Czerniawsky said. “Every shift I’ve ever worked, someone at the door has remarked that they’ve ‘been coming here since before you were born,’ or ‘Man, it smells like 20 years ago in here.’ It was really sweet.”

Czerniawsky said they believe that in 30 years, someone will be saying the same thing to

back hometown heroes and Gamecock legends Hootie and the Blowfish for two nights in a row on their highlyanticipated Summer Camp with Trucks Tour.

some other college student working the NBT door.

New Brookland Tavern stands as a testament to Columbia’s enduring spirit of live music. While the venue’s move sparked some concerns, the prevailing sentiment among patrons and staff is optimism and nostalgia. NBT’s resilience, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of its new surroundings, suggests that it will preserve its cherished history and create new memories for the next generation.

B Y A L I C I A

CARACCIOLO

“Under the Carolia sky, I stand,” says a loud, deep voice accompanied by the screams of over seventyseven thousand Gamecock fans. Gamecock football fans flood the stadium for all home games during the fall football season. Attendees are all united by one thing — their love for the Gamecocks.

With colored LED lights, loud music, enthusiastic fans and the “Mighty Sound of the Southeast,” it is no surprise that Williams-Brice Stadium is once again the champion of Best of Carolina’s Best Sporting Venue.

As someone who has spent time as a member of the crowd and as a member of the press at football games, the passion of Gamecock fans is truly something special to be a part of and to record.

This past year, the possibility of bowl-game eligibility was reliant on a victory at the final home game of the season against the team’s biggest rival, Clemson. Over an hour before the game started, the student section, known as “The Cockpit,” was crowded and excited to support its team. Despite the game being on a holiday weekend, Gamecock fans flooded the gates of Williams-Brice Stadium in anticipation of the high-stakes rival game.

Although this year’s Palmetto Bowl did not end in favor of the Gamecocks, fans stayed until the very end to support their team. Seniors on the team and in the student section remained at the stadium after the game ended, soaking up every second they could of the Williams-Brice Stadium environment for the final time.

Most people only emphasize the value of moments at Williams-Brice Stadium to seniors, but every moment there is special despite your year in college. A student’s first-ever Sandstorm is just as important as their last, and every single one in between means something.

In Columbia, if Gamecock football is played at home, Williams-Brice Stadium is where people spend their Saturdays. It is not just about the game but about the culture of the fans who will always be there for their team.

Gamecock fanhood is not for fair-weather fans, and this year, students and lifelong Gamecock fans proved that they will support their team regardless of its record.

Carolina Band members have the special opportunity to travel with the team for all of its games. Feature twirler Ally Grooms said that the fanbase is what makes Williams-Brice Stadium different from other SEC stadiums.

“The energy that the fans bring is amazing. Win or lose, everyone is always so excited to be there with their Gamecock family,” Grooms said.

Rain or shine, win or lose, there is nothing quite like Saturdays in South Carolina at WilliamsBrice Stadium.

Top and Bottom photos By Tyler Sprague | GMG

Photo By Alicia Caracciolo | GMG

GET TO KNOW CAREER CENTER Your

The University of South Carolina Career Center is more than resumes and cover letters.

We’re networking via career and internship fairs, employer visits and mentoring through Mentorship Hub. We’re education through workshops, panels, career coaching and career assessments. We’re real-time career-related data in Gamecock GradStats. We’re experiential education through internships, co-ops, part-time and full-time jobs in Handshake. We’re skill building with mock interviewing and guidance on professional documents and personal branding. We’re all of these things and so much more!

Get to know your Career Center today and nd out how we can help you reach your career goals.

sc.edu/career

facebook.com/UofSCcareers

instagram.com/uofsccareers 803.777.7280

University Career Center (Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5)

College of Engineering & Computing (Swearingen, 1A03)

Graduate Student Resources Hub (Close-Hipp, 204)

Pre-Professional & Graduate School Advising (Sumwalt, 208)

Soda City Market

Best Social Outing

By Francesca Cumello

IT SHOULD BE NO SURPRISE to University of South Carolina students that Soda City Market won Best of Carolina 2024’s Best Social Outing.

On Saturday mornings, firstyear students and seniors alike populate Main Street in downtown Columbia to enjoy the ever-expanding market. What began in 2005 as the “All Local Farmers Market” at a small restaurant, Gervais and Vine, has now expanded into an attraction that attracts

hundreds to peruse various food trucks, craftsmen and other booths for hours every weekend.

Not only does Soda City offer a fun escape off-campus, but it also looks to uplift all students in their endeavors — and many students likely wouldn’t be aware of this.

Olivia Pope, Soda City business manager, says organizers “look to utilize the market for educational growth and other

opportunities free of charge. From conducting research studies, surveying, fundraising, educational workshops, raising awareness of a cause, to business incubators, the market is here to help bolster these academic endeavors.”

In fact, keep an eye out for the ‘Student Side Hustle’ event on April 13, which is “specifically for university students with side hustles looking to set up at the market as a pop-up,” Pope said.

Soda City is an enriching source of entertainment and support for USC students, and it is integral to the Columbia community so don’t pass up on the opportunity to enjoy what many dub the “Best Social Outing.”

Best Tailgating Spot

The Frat Lots

Best Trivia Spot Village Idiot

Way to go, Dr. Katrice Branner!

A big Congrats from the Faculty, Staff, & Students in the Management Science Department!

WHERE GAMECOCKS FIND THEIR ROOST

UofSC students post for free when using their UofSC email address.

Wellness and Fitness Center

Best Gym

By Jenna Swenson

IF YOU WANT a quick workout or pickup game, head to this year’s winner for Best Gym, the USC Wellness and Fitness Center.

The Wellness and Fitness Center is by far the best gym to go to on campus. With flexible hours and plenty of services, you will not leave dissatisfied. The gym has spacious areas to work out in,

racquetball courts to play in and Group X fitness classes to participate in. Not to mention, it has a rock-climbing wall that’s bigger than Clemson’s!

Whether it’s leg day or time for cardio, guests can use a wide variety of machines to get an excellent workout in. The upper level also has an indoor track, while the main level has basketball courts. Its outdoor

pool is also quite popular and a great place to get a nice tan. Afterward, guests can utilize the locker rooms to rinse off or store their belongings.

The Wellness and Fitness Center is unparrelled and accessible to many. What’s stopping you from getting some steps in or racing up the rock wall with your friends? Stop by today!

Station at Five Points

LIMITED LIMITED SPACING SPACING FOR FALL FOR FALL

B Y F R A NCESCA CUMELLO

The Graduate can be found just offcampus, appearing as a well-groomed brick home from the street. Any passerby would recognize the building, as it is a staple hotel for students and families at the University of South Carolina.

The hotel can be found within the historic Cain-Matthews-Tompkins House, which was built in 1911 by Columbia businessman John Jefferson Cain. The building changed hands multiple times over the 20th century until being purchased by the University of South Carolina in 1974. Just over three decades later, in 2005, the property became the Inn at USC. Throughout the building’s existence, its essential characteristics of architecture and design have been maintained, but they have been updated over time.

The Graduate can accommodate up to 120 guests simultaneously and is the quintessential boutique hotel of Columbia, SC. Walking into the Graduate for the first time, any newcomer would be thoroughly impressed, as they are met with the smiling concierge in a colorfully decorated foyer. Various sitting rooms emerge to each side of the main hallway, providing spaces with eccentric atmospheres for each guest’s taste. Upon entering the hotel room, one

would be surprised to see an artistic rendering of a Gamecock as the headboard for the bed. On the walls, another reflection of USC culture; there is themed art corresponding to different organizations and sports teams on campus.

Each element of the Graduate in Columbia is carefully curated to suit its patrons, most of whom are likely visiting the USC campus and its surrounding areas.

USC sophomore Ella Lukowiak has stayed at the Graduate multiple times. From Admitted Student Day to Family Weekend, she found during her stays here that the hotel does an exceptional job of making its guests feel at home.

“(The staff) really have a way of making the guests feel cared for and like they have a good understanding of the surrounding area, especially when visiting the university,” Lukowiak said.

As a prospective student, Lukowiak was unfamiliar with what Columbia had to offer, but she was able to “learn about great places to eat and locations on campus that would be interesting to check out as a potential student, amongst many other things.”

The Graduate can differentiate itself from other hotels in Columbia through its unique design flair and above-and-beyond customer service, feeling like a “luxury cottage,” according to Lukowiak. Beyond these aspects, she remarks that the prime location is a significant plus to staying at the Graduate.

“The location of the Graduate is a huge asset to staying there. It is very easy to walk to almost any place on campus, and you can’t say the same for a lot of other hotels in Columbia in which you would have to drive and find parking around the city,” Lukowiak said.

Lukowiak remains so impressed by her experiences as a guest that she has returned to the hotel as a student in her day-to-day life.

“After my stay at the Graduate, I found the environment so warm and welcoming that as a student, I often go back to study and do homework in some of the various lounge areas, taking in the ambiance,” she said.

The Graduate is an asset to the University of South Carolina community and gets glowing recommendations from its patrons, making it Best of Carolina’s Best Hotel.