Hi Everyone -  here's what we got this week at the University of South Carolina:

On the docket:

• Catch the Action: USC Men’s Basketball vs. Clemson Tonight

• Columbia’s Updated Parking Policies: What You Need to Know

• Historic Achievement for Gamecock Football

Catch the Action: USC Men’s Basketball vs. Clemson Tonight!

Gamecock parents, prepare for an exciting evening of basketball as the University of South Carolina men's basketball team takes on in-state rival Clemson! The highly anticipated game tips off tonight at 7 PM in the iconic Colonial Life Arena. Known for its electric atmosphere, the arena is the perfect place to cheer on the Gamecocks as they battle for Palmetto State bragging rights. Whether you're a lifelong fan or experiencing the thrill of a UofSC basketball game for the first time, this matchup promises to be a memorable event.

Don’t forget to wear your garnet and black to show your support and arrive early to soak in the pre-game excitement. If you can’t make it to the arena, tune in to watch from home and cheer from afar. Let’s show Clemson what Gamecock pride is all about—Go Cocks!

Columbia’s Updated Parking Policies: What You Need to Know

As a senior at USC, I’ve seen Columbia grow alongside our university, and with growth comes change—especially when it comes to parking. Recently, the City Council approved the first phase of a major parking overhaul, the first big update in years. It’s all about improving accessibility, keeping up with the city’s needs, and generating funds for future upgrades (a whopping $17 million projected over five years!).

Here’s the scoop:

• On-street parking rates are increasing from $0.75/hour to $1.50/hour, with enforcement hours now stretching from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

• Parking garages will still offer the first hour free, but rates will climb after that.

• Fines are steeper—like $500 for fire lane violations—so double-check those spots!

Planning a visit? Be sure to plan for parking, especially since the city is working to balance convenience and safety. A silver lining: parking remains free during Soda City Market Saturdays until 2 p.m.

These changes might feel like a hassle, but they’re part of Columbia’s efforts to enhance life for students, families, and our growing community. So, next time you’re here, enjoy the improvements—and maybe snag a coffee at Soda City while you're at it!

Historic Achievement for Gamecock Football

Gamecock football made history last week when Kyle Kennard won the Bronko Nagurski Award, recognizing him as the best defensive player in college football—the first South Carolina player to ever earn this honor!

Kennard joined USC this year after transferring from Georgia Tech, and he’s had an unbelievable season. He led the SEC with 11.5 sacks and earned spots on the Reese’s Senior Bowl All-America Team and the USA TODAY All-SEC Team. He’s also a finalist for the Lombardi Award, which will be announced this week.

To top it off, the Gamecocks are heading to the 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl to take on the University of Illinois on December 31. The energy around campus is electric—it’s such a fun time to be a student here and cheer on our team!