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BEST OF UC SPRING 2025 EDITION

Letter from the Editor

Intertwined in our campus and surrounding streets is a jumble of shops, bars, and a variety of culinary classics. All of these places help shape the Universitycommunity and make it a dynamic hub, providing students, faculty and residents with a rich blend of options.

Every year, The News Record sends out their annual poll with Best of UC categories—whether it’s best bar, sweet treat or place to buy recreational marijuana. Each page in this issue highlights the Best of UC winners voted by our beloved community residents.

So, thank you all for taking the time to vote in this year’s edition of our Best of UC magazine. The News Record staff has worked diligently to craft a publication that proudly showcases the 22 winners, and I hope you enjoy our 2025 edition!

STAFF MEMBERS

Editor-in-Chief | Aidan Leonard

Managing Editor | Isabella Zinchini

Multimedia Editor | Lydia Schembre

Chief Photographer | Maylea Salmon

News Editor | Hajra Munir

Features Editor | Brooke Burkhardt

Sports Editor | Tyler Easterday

Opinion Editor | Lucas Griffith

General Reporter | Alanna Marshall

News Reporter | Addison Kohn

Features Reporter | Avery Padgett

Sports Reporter | Brianna Jones

Opinion Reporter | Chloe Hall

Designer | Abigail Raubenolt

Business Adviser | Bob Jonason

Editorial Adviser | Jenny Wohlfarth

BEST STUDY SPOT LANGSAM LIBRARY

The Walter C. Langsam Library, located at 2911 Woodside Drive, contains more than 1 million volumes in the humanities, as well as more than 200,000 government depository collections of state, federal and international documents.

Far from just a repository of knowledge, Langsam serves as a resource hub for academic needs. Its amenities include printing stations, private study rooms and a secluded prayer and meditation area on the fourth floor. Also on the fourth floor is the Academic Writing Center, where graduate workers offer tutoring and proofreading assistance for a variety of general education courses.

JOE CAREY STAFF REPORTER

Cushioned chairs and couch areas are scattered among bookshelves and exhibits on the upper two floors, which house most of the library’s physical collection. Currently on display on the fifth floor are the Ben and Shirley Bernstein Pre-Columbian Pottery Collection and a brassware gallery commemorating the UC Women’s Club.

The circulation desk is located to the left upon entering, where staff and student assistants help users find titles, check out materials and answer questions about library resources. Other features include a keyboard lab, an internet café and the Elliston Poetry Collection.

The library’s late hours accommodate packed study schedules, with closing times of midnight Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Planning a long-haul project or latenight exam cram? Langsam has just the spot for you. With a calming atmosphere, numerous study spaces and a Starbucks on the ground level, the library remains a popular home base for Bearcat scholars.

The outside of Langsam Library, as pictured on Feb. 23, 2025. Katy Mowery | Photo Contributor

UC student Maya Drouillard studies for midterms in the first-floor study cubbies of Langam Library on Feb. 23, 2025. Katy Mowery | Photo Contributor

MOUNTAINEERING

AVERY PADGETT FEATURES REPORTER

BEST STUDENT ORGANIZATION CLUB

The University of Cincinnati Mountaineering Club, known as UCMC to its more than 600 members, has climbed to the top of the polls, earning the title of Best Student Organization. Founded in 1971, UCMC is one of UC’s largest student clubs and continues to thrive after 54 years.

“I know everyone in UCMC loves the club so much,” said club president Carli Federle. “We’re one of the oldest and largest clubs for a reason.”

The club’s mission is simple: to get as many students outside as possible, as reflected in its slogan, “We just really like to be outside.” Weekly Wednesday meetings in Room 127 of the A&S Hall feature educational presentations on outdoor topics, ranging from guides to cowboy camping to discussions on the Southwest Conservation Corps.

UCMC fosters bonds around campfires, secures friendships with climbing ropes and toasts adventures with Ale-8, a drink from one of its sponsor companies. Members without their own gear can rent equipment from the club’s Gear Cave for $25 per semester. The club puts this gear to use on hiking, kayaking, camping and caving trips to scenic locations nationwide. Upcoming spring break trips include the “In n’ Out West Cowabunga Extravaganza,” the “Pushing P(eak)” trip in New Mexico and an exploration of Utah’s national parks.

“I’m so proud of us. It’s such a silly, small thing, but we all banded together to vote for UCMC because we love it so much,” said Vice President Emma Hite, as Free Bird played through the speakers and members

trickled into the Wednesday meeting, ready to learn about a new adventure.

Members of the UC Mountaineering Club pose, spelling out “UCMC,” atop Lions Head while backpacking through the Dolly Sods Wilderness in Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. Erik Hemmert l Staff Photographer

Members of the UC Mountaineering Club backpacked through the Dolly Sods Wilderness in Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, covering 15 miles over two days with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Their route included the Blackbird Knob Trail and Lions Head Loop Trail, with one night spent camping along Red Creek. Erik Hemmert l Staff Photographer

CALHOUN HALL BEST DORM

Calhoun Hall lobby Feb. 4, 2025. Zachary Stewart | Photo Contributor

Ouside of Calhoun Hall Feb. 4, 2025. Zachary Stewart | Photo Contributor

BEST DATE NIGHT SPOT

BROOKE BURKHARDT

FEATURES EDITOR

Findlay Market is more than just a place to grab gourmet treats and groceries. With specialty restaurants, local business booths and live music around every corner, it’s the perfect place for a date night.

Whether you take a stroll through the shops inside the Market House—such as botany outlet Gia & the Blooms— or explore the world of beeswax at Bee Haven, there are dozens of local businesses to browse.

Surrounding the main building is an endless array of food options to satisfy any craving. Stop by OTR Bagel Bar for a breakfast pick-me-up, Arepa Place for an authentic Colombian lunch or Eli’s BBQ for a savory dinner.

Finish off the night with a cinnamon roll from Makers Bakers Co. or a slice of cheesecake from Taste of Belgium. Perfectly portioned to share, you might just want to grab another for yourself.

FINDLAY MARKET

Findley Market in Cincinnati, on Feb. 14, 2025. Grace Diederich | Photo Contributor

If you are looking for an apartment home or would like to rent a house near the University of Cincinnati, Clifton Gaslight District, Northside or even Oakley, you ’ ve come to the right place! We offer a wide variety of apartment homes, single-family homes, off-campus housing, and just about everything in between. All our homes are dog friendly and cat friendly With no weight or breed restrictions, most pets are welcome! From off-street parking to garages, we ’ ve got all the convenience you need right here in the center of the universe, as we know it, and just minutes away from UC Medical Campuses!

BEST DJ

DJ BOYWIFE

A defining force in Cincinnati’s club scene, DJ Boywife has cemented his place as a leading figure in the city’s nightlife. Known for his electrifying sets of queer dance music, he blends elements of pop, house and techno, drawing crowds across Over-the-Rhine (OTR) and Northside. His performances have become a staple of the local club culture, setting the tone for a dynamic dance floor.

Amassing more than 12,500 followers on Instagram, DJ Boywife built his fan base through his exhilarating performances in OTR and Northside.

“Alice is my home and where I feel the most comfortable, Bloom always shows out for the queers, and Dsgn Cllctv does everything in between,” DJ Boywife said.

ADDISON KOHN NEWS REPORTER

The prolific DJ describes the Cincinnati club scene as “growing more and more every day” and “breaking new barriers every weekend.” He also highlights its inclusivity, emphasizing his hope that people from all backgrounds feel welcome and included at his performances.

Beyond the music, DJ Boywife radiates fun and enthusiasm while supporting various charities and communities— values that define both Cincinnati’s club culture and its favorite DJ.

“The support from the students at UC means so much to me—you’re literally the future,” he said. “You’ll be the ones to shape culture for the next decade to come, and you’ll be doing so with such great taste. The world is your oyster, and with a particular change of regime happening, you and your voice matter now more than ever.”

DJ Boywife performs at Alice in Cincinnati, on Feb. 23, 2025. Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

DJ Boywife performs at Flora & Flair on Jan. 29, 2025, at a reclaimed runway show. Addison Kohn | News Reporter

DJ Boywife performs at DSGN CLLCTV in Cincinnati, on Feb. 23, 2025. Maylea Salmon | Chief Photographer

In 1989, Mark Fischbach, known as Markiplier, was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. While he was studying biomedical engineering at The University of Cincinnati, he had not experienced the mass fame and following that viewers now associate him with today.

In 2012, he dropped out of UC during his last year and launched his YouTube Channel. Over a decade later he amassed over 36 million followers. Originally, Markiplier made a lot of Five Nights at Freddy’s content on YouTube, and today his channel’s content ranges from different video

game clips, comedy and podcast type videos, animated originals, reviews and more.

While Markiplier’s first videos have been taken off his YouTube Channel, some of the videos he still has on his channel have a view count of over 20 million, with one from 2014 reaching 122.4 million. Markiplier still uploads very consistently, posting videos that typically range from 30 minutes to upward of over an hour, with content tailored to what he originally posted when he first started and evolving to keep up with his new followers’ demand.

Markiplier speaking with attendees at the 2018 PAX West at Benaroya Hall in Seattle, Washington.

Gage Skidmore

LUCAS GRIFFITH OPINION EDITOR

BEST BOOKSTORE DUBOIS BOOKSTORE

Sitting on the corner of Calhoun Street and West Clifton Avenue, DuBois Bookstore has once again been voted the best bookstore on campus. Filled to the brim with Bearcat gear of every kind, DuBois has been and seemingly will continue to be the go-to place for University of Cincinnati merchandise. “We work hard year-round to make sure we have the best selection,” said J.D., the manager of DuBois. “I think students see that, and I think they appreciate it.”

This commitment to keeping shelves stocked with the latest UC gear continues to bring generation after generation of Bearcats through DuBois’ doors. Walking into the store, customers are greeted by friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, with a wellorganized selection of nearly any type of clothing a student could want.

DuBois Bookstore has been “serving UC students, fans & alumni since 1955,” according to its website. Sixty-nine years’ worth of UC students have frequented the store, and it seems as if 69 more years’ worth of students

will be able to continue filling their closets with all things Bearcats.

“We get a lot of people who are totally new to Cincinnati every year, but we also get a lot of people whose parents shopped here, whose grandparents shopped here. I’d say we’re a wellknown name here in Cincinnati,” added J.D.

If you, your mom, your cousin or even your neighbor want to show off their love for UC, DuBois Bookstore remains the undeniable champ.

DuBois Bookstore on Feb. 12, 2025. Lucas Griffith | Opinion Editor

BEST COFFEE SHOP THE UPSIDE BREW

For the second year in a row, The Upside Brew, located at 329 Ludlow Ave., has been voted UC students’ favorite coffee shop. Partly owned and operated by Lydia Ludwig, The Upside has been a staple in the campus community for more than a decade.

Known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu and commitment to both quality and community, the café offers students a space to study, socialize and unwind.

“We bring a good study atmosphere,” Ludwig said. “Even at night, people are still here drinking coffee and getting work done.”

HAJRA MUNIR NEWS EDITOR

The Upside also serves as a bar and art gallery. Unlike traditional bars, it provides a quieter yet lively environment, balancing a coffee shop and bar setting. The menu reflects its popularity, with chai lattes and smoothies being student favorites.

“I’ve been told I’m not allowed to change our chai,” Ludwig said.

The breakfast sandwiches, made fresh to order and served all day, are another standout item, keeping customers coming back. Beyond coffee, The Upside fosters a strong sense of community. The café’s rotating art gallery, friendly staff and engaging events—

“WE BRING A GOOD STUDY ATMOSPHERE,” LUDWIG SAID.

“EVEN AT NIGHT, PEOPLE ARE STILL HERE DRINKING COFFEE AND GETTING

like trivia night—contribute to its inviting environment.

“When I hire, I look for people who will make their experience here a high point in someone’s day,” Ludwig said.

Open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10 p.m. on weekends, The Upside Brew prides itself on hosting UC students—whether for a quick coffee or a stop-in for happy hour.

With plans for more art shows and expanded patio events, The Upside continues to evolve while maintaining the charm UC students love. Whether for a morning bagel or a late-night study session, it remains a go-to destination on campus.

“We wear many hats here at The Upside,” Ludwig said.

The Upside Brew on Feb. 11, 2025. Hajra Munir | News Editor

BEST LOCAL BAND

NO CONSCRIPTION

LEAGUE

No Conscription League is all about noise. Made up of Andrew Studebaker, Gianni Espejel, Harry Strauss and Jake Weir, the band has been moving air and bringing the noise for the past two years, making its mark on the Cincinnati music scene both on and off University of Cincinnati’s (UC) campus. The start of No Conscription League was not a completely new beginning; rather, it was a reconnection between old friends. Strauss and Studebaker went to elementary school together, and Espejel and Strauss actually founded the band for a school project. The two were scouting for more members

through flyers put up around campus, and Studebaker texted Strauss about joining. At that point, the final ingredient was Weir, and they’ve been a band ever since.

For those wondering where the band got its name, the No Conscription League was an anarchist organization that opposed the World War I draft and aimed to help those who refused military service and protested the government-enforced conscription. According to Espejel, this directly relates to the message that the band wants to portray. “I wanted that optimism and

action in the face of overwhelming odds to be reflected in our music,” he explained. “Being productive and passionate about what you do, even in the face of terrible things going on in the world.”

Undoubtedly, one of the best parts of being in a local band is the live shows. For these four, their live performances are a league of their own. “I find it really cool when we’re at a place and people ask if we’re going to be playing that night,” Strauss said. “It’s like people actually come to see us, instead of just being the random band at this bar.”

Jake Weir of No Conscription League performs at The Comet in Cincinnati, on Feb. 12, 2025. Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

Gianni Espejel of No Conscription League performs at a show in Cincinnati, at The Comet on Feb. 12, 2025. Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

now than it was then.”

In the beginning, however, it was not a breezy walk in the park. Cold-calling venues left and right to find places they could play at, one of their first big performances was filmed in its entirety. “You can actually find it on YouTube. A guy who’s very big into taping [has] a full reel of our first show ever,” Studebaker explained. “And it’s really bad,” they all joked. “I remember my friend Charlie said I looked like a statue just like holding my guitar,” Strauss recounted. “Comparing that to now, I get way more into our music. I try to interact with the crowd when I can. It is such a better feeling playing

“Demos For Your Mom,” the EP the band released in July 2024, consists of nine songs and embodies the band’s common theme of being all about noise. However, the band members have their own reservations about some of the tracks. “One of the most popular songs on it is like one that we all collectively don’t like,” Strauss revealed, referencing the track “Moles”.

The new EP that the four are working on now, however, is completely different and has all new songs by the band. Titled “AME DAMNEE, KEEP YOUR HEAD HELD HIGH!,” the EP is set to have four songs and an interlude. With songs the band has been working on since April and late in the summer, Espejel explained, “We like [these] a lot more than ‘Demos.’”

After playing 43 live shows in 2024, No Conscription League has come a long way from their very first perfor-

mance. Even more, the band now has a fanbase to interact with during shows. Wanting to go beyond just performing in Cincinnati, the band has performed at Dirty Dungarees in Columbus twice, and they have upcoming performances in Urbana, IL, Athens, OH and Bloomington, IN. “The fact that people care about the music that we make means more than anything,” said Espejel. “It means the world; it really does.”

No Conscription League has come a long way from a school project, and the band members want to take it as far as they can go. Making music together, performing for people who care about it and keeping their money where their mouths are when it comes to what they stand for, the band certainly lives up to its name. To them, the act of creating is everything. As Espejel words it, “The ability to make art as a unit has been the most rewarding experience of my life. [Being] able to make music that we’re all very proud of [and] could never be made by anyone but us.”

Andrew Studebaker of No Conscription League performs at a show in Cincinnati, at The Comet on Feb. 12, 2025.

Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

Harry Strauss of No Conscription League performs at The Comet in Cincinnati, on Feb. 12, 2025.

Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

JARED MEADOWS STAFF REPORTER

WES MILLER BEST COACH

In his fourth year as head coach of the men’s basketball program, Wes Miller, pilot of “The Movement”, has begun to steer the Bearcats’ ship back into national prominence.

Before his coaching career, Miller was a walk-on for the North Carolina Tar Heels after attending James Madison University for one year. Under the guidance of legendary coach Roy Williams, Miller appeared in 24 games for the Tar Heels in 2005, who ended up as national champions. He graduated in 2007 and played one season for the London Capitals in the British Basketball League before joining the Elon University staff as an assistant coach.

He became the head coach for UNC Greensboro in 2011 and is their winningest coach in program history. Over ten seasons, he led the Spartans to three Southern Conference championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances before being hired by the University of Cincinnati in 2021.

THE MOVEMENT THE MOVEMENT WES MILLER

Currently in his fourth season, Miller has racked up over 75 wins, with two NIT Tournament appearances. In his third year, the program’s first in the Big 12 Conference, Miller led the team to victories over #12 ranked BYU, #15 Texas Tech, and #19 TCU.

This season’s squad, which has been the most anticipated in recent memory for the school, reached as high as #14 in the AP Poll. Wins over arch-rival Xavier (the team’s first this decade over the Musketeers) and Dayton led the way for the out-of-conference schedule. For the Big 12 portion of the schedule, Cincinnati has gained victories over programs such as TCU, UCF, and Utah.

While this year’s results have not been the ones that the Bearcats’ audience had predicted at the start of the season, Miller’s leadership and recruiting skills have a reason to believe in the future of Cincinnati basketball. Miller has been

able to recruit players such as Dillon Mitchell and Simas Lukosius in recent years out of the transfer portal, who have gone on to be impactful members of the starting lineup.

Excitement also lies in the future when it comes to Miller’s recruiting. The upcoming 2025 class has the potential to be one of the best in modern times for the Bearcats, headlined by McDonald’s All-American Shon Abaev, widely considered one of the highest ranked recruits in school history. The class also includes guard Keyshaun Tillery, a consensus 4-star recruit who also received offers from programs such as Villanova and Kansas.

Patience will be key for the future of the Bearcats. Under Miller’s guidance, “The Movement” has the chance to return Cincinnati basketball to the level of national respect it was so well-known for decades.

Coach Wes Miller during the Bearcats’ game against the Arizona St. Sun Devils on Jan. 18, 2025 at Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati. The Bearcats won 67 - 60. Maylea Salmon | Chief Photographer

CINCINNATI BEARCAT

Recently named the best mascot in Cincinnati, the Bearcat continues to serve as a beloved symbol of both the University of Cincinnati and the city. “It means a lot,” Head Bearcat Coach Chris Helmers said. “The Bearcat is the face of the University of Cincinnati, but also [he does] so much for the city of Cincinnati, with all the fundraising that he does and all the community appearances that he makes.”

The Bearcat’s evolution has been one of growth and improvement.

“We’ve come such a long way from what we used to do at games and with our skits and our costumes to where we are now,” Helmers said.

“And it’s exciting to see where it can even go from here.” The Bearcat’s increasing entertainment value and social media presence have made him a standout in collegiate athletics.

The Bearcat’s design and diverse skill set also play a key role in his popularity. “The features and colors of Bearcat are huge as well,” said Helmers. “Our big head and our big feet are very noticeable and we’re kind of like an all-around mascot. We can pull out the dance moves whenever we want, we can bring out props and interact with fans very easily, we can see [and interact with] you from 1,000 feet away, or we can interact with you one foot away.”

With more than 450 events attended annually, including sporting events and community service projects, the Bearcat remains a constant presence at UC.

His role at graduation orientations and other significant occasions helps foster school pride and a sense of belonging among students.

BEST MASCOT

ISABELLA ZINCHINI MANAGING EDITOR

The Bearcat during the Bearcats’ womens basketball game against Oklahoma St. on Jan. 8, 2025. The Bearcats lost 64 - 48. Lydia Schembre | Multimedia Editor

For the first time in his career, Bearcats defensive tackle Dontay Corleone has won The News Record’s Best Male Athlete Award.

The Cincinnati native earned the honor after a standout season, being named to the All-Big 12 first team and receiving honorable mention on the

College Football Network All-America team. He played in all but one game for Scott Satterfield’s team, totaling 26 tackles, including five tackles for loss for 21 yards.

“The Godfather,” as he is affectionately known by Bearcats fans, also registered 3.5 sacks.

His success was no surprise. Corleone was a third-team All-American as a redshirt freshman and earned All-Big 12 second-team honors in 2023. He is also a force in the classroom, graduating with his bachelor’s degree in December 2024.

Corleone’s story is one to remember. During summer workouts, Cincinnati doctors flagged blood clots in his system, sidelining him for much of the offseason. He missed the season opener against Towson, which the Bearcats won 38-20.

DONTAY CORLEONE BEST MALE ATHLETE

Jillian Hayes, a Cincinnati native and fifth-year forward for the women’s basketball team, continues to make history by breaking numerous records within the program. Recently, Hayes became the all-time leader for blocks in program history.

She has already set multiple program milestones, including records for games played and free throws. In her 2023-24 season, she averaged 12.9 points per game, 8.4 rebounds, and shot 42% from the field.

Hayes started all 32 games, earning All-Big 12 Honorable Mention and CSC Academic All-District honors. She also recorded 10 double-doubles for the second consecutive season, the first Bearcat to do so since Doris Scott (1997-99).

As the 2024-25 season continues, Hayes shines with averages of 15.9 points per game, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.

Bearcats forward Jillian Hayes (20) celebrates after scoring during the Bearcats’ game against the Xavier Musketeers on Dec. 15, 2024. The Bearcats defeated the Musketeers 60-48 in the Crosstown Shootout. Lydia Schembre | Multimedia Editor

SPORTS EDITOR

His much-anticipated return came in the second game of the season against Pittsburgh. Though Cincinnati lost, Corleone made an impact, recording six tackles—the second-most on the team—and one of the Bearcats’ two sacks, alongside linebacker Jonathan Thompson.

Cincinnati started the season strong, winning five of its first seven games and beginning Big 12 play 2-0. However, the momentum did not last. The Bearcats lost their final five games, finishing 5-7 and missing bowl eligibility by one game.

Despite the team’s struggles, Corleone won Best Male Athlete over nominees such as baseball’s Josh Kross and basketball’s Dan Skillings Jr. His leadership and connection with the fanbase are undeniable, but his play on the field speaks for itself.

Corleone recently announced his decision to return to Cincinnati for his fifth season. The Colerain High School product was projected as a likely pick in April’s NFL Draft but chose to return to leave his mark on the next era of Bearcats football.

JILLIAN BEST FEMALE ATHLETE

HAYES

BRIANNA JONES SPORTS REPORTER

“I’M EXTREMELY GRATEFUL TO EVEN BE CONSIDERED FOR THE BEST FEMALE ATHLETE AWARD.”

JILLIAN HANES

“I’M SO GLAD I GET TO PLAY MY LAST YEAR HERE AT UC FOR THE BEST COACHES SURROUNDED BY THE BEST PEOPLE.”

JILLIAN HANES

Defensive lineman Dontay Corleone (2) during the Bearcats’ game against the TCU Horned Frogs on Nov. 30, 2024 at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati. The Bearcats lost 20-13. Maylea Salmon | Chief Photographer

ALPHA ALPHA CHAPTER OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA BEST FRATERNITY

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. was founded on Dec. 4, 1906, at Cornell University as the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for Black men.

The fraternity was founded by seven college men who recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in the United States. Alpha Phi Alpha has long been at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights. Notable members include civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court justice, and Theodore Berry, the first African American mayor of Cincinnati and a member of the Alpha Alpha chapter.

The fraternity’s mission is to develop leaders and promote brotherhood and academic excellence while advocating for service in their communities.

The Alpha Alpha chapter, also known as “Double A,” is located at the Univer-

sity of Cincinnati. Chartered on Dec. 20, 1920, it was the first double-letter chapter created within Black Greek life. The fraternity continues to demonstrate academic excellence and brotherhood on campus.

Members of the Double A chapter are heavily involved in organizations such as the Student Alumni Council, Collegiate 100 (an honorary program for Black male leaders), and the African American Culture and Resource Center.

BRIANNA JONES SPORTS REPORTER

“It’s a great feeling. I think it’s a testament to all of the hard work we’ve put in,” said Chapter President Darian Woods. “We’re extremely blessed, and I’m extremely grateful for my chapter, my team, and the work we’ve been able to put in.”

Alpha Phi Alpha’s national programs help all chapters achieve their community service goals. Initiatives include feeding the homeless, supporting women’s shelters, and volunteering with Matthew 25: Ministries. Through these efforts, the Alpha Alpha chapter has completed more than 100 community service hours.

Winning Best of UC is a great honor for the chapter, but its ambitions extend beyond campus.

“I think the biggest thing on our radar right now is that we want to win Regional Chapter of the Year,” Woods said. “We already won District Chapter of the Year, so we’re heading to Detroit in a couple of weeks to compete at the regional level.”

Three members of the Alpha Alpha chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity pose for a photo during their Bible Study With The Bruhs event at the African American Cultural & Resource Center at the University of Cincinnati on Feb. 5, 2025. Rama Diallo | Contributor

Event attendees and members of the Alpha Alpha chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity posing for a photo during their Bible Study With The Bruhs event in the African American Cultural & Resource Center at the University of Cincinnati on Feb. 5, 2025. Rama Diallo | Contributor

ZETA TAU ALPHA BEST SORORITY

Among the University of Cincinnati’s 18 sororities, Zeta Tau Alpha leads the pack. The Alpha Eta chapter, the 32nd link in the national ZTA organization, has thrived at UC since 1921.

Its rich history and traditions attract some of the university’s best and brightest students in search of a strong sisterhood. The organization prides itself on philanthropy, leadership, academic excellence and unconditional friendship.

Located on Stratford Avenue, Zeta Tau Alpha is home to 100 active members—the sorority’s quota. Along with weekly chapter meetings, bonding activities and fundraisers, ZTA hosts a philanthropy event each semester. Last semester, the sorority held its annual Crown Classic flag football tournament.

MADELYN STEWART STAFF REPORTER

Its commitment to philanthropy— particularly breast cancer awareness and education—resonates deeply with the student body, leading to highly successful fundraising. The chapter is currently organizing a pickleball tournament to close out the school year.

Zeta Tau Alpha strives to foster a “home away from home” not only for its members but for the entire UC community. Chapter President Hannah MacRaild hopes to see the chapter’s public service efforts continue to grow, “I really hope that our love for philanthropy grows more in our chapter and in our community as well.”

The chapter expresses gratitude for being voted best sorority on campus.

“The looks on everyone’s faces—they were so beyond excited; it was incredible. We are truly honored,” MacRaild said. “When we recruit members or are out in the community, we really try to wear our values and be welcoming to everyone at all times.”

Members of Zeta Tau Alpha pose for a photo during work week ahead of sorority recruitment at the University of Cincinnati on Aug. 13, 2024. Maylea Salmon | Chief Photographer

BEST SWEET TREAT

GRAETER’S ICE CREAM

BROOKE BURKHARDT FEATURES EDITOR

Known for its old-fashioned, handcrafted ice cream made using the French Pot process, the dessert parlor has been a city favorite for more than 150 years. Nearly five generations of the Graeter family have owned and operated the business since its founding in 1870. Each batch is hand-packed into containers, creating a dense and rich treat.

From classics like Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Cookies & Cream and Madagascar Vanilla Bean to specialty flavors like Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan and Birthday Cake, Graeter’s has something for everyone—including the UC-inspired Boldly Bearcat.

Graeter’s also offers gluten-free sorbets, along with milkshakes, malts, coffee and specialty sodas.

With a menu that stands the test of time, it’s clear why Graeter’s remains a generational favorite.

BEST LATE-NIGHT BITE CANE’S

Ice cream cones are displayed inside Graeter’s on N. Grand Avenue in Newport, KY, on Feb. 20, 2025. Brooke Burkhardt | Feature Editor

Studio photos of Cane’s Chicken on Feb. 18, 2025. Erik Hemmert l Staff Photographer

SUNNY SIDE BEST PLACE TO BUY

RECREATIONAL WEED

AIDAN LEONARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A short 15-minute drive from campus, Sunnyside Recreational and Medical Marijuana Dispensary opened its doors on 5149 Kennedy Ave in 2019.

One of 73 locations across six states, the marijuana chain operates in Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

“We’re a full adult use and medical dispensary that serves anyone over the

age of 21,” said Benjamin Keaton, the District Manager of Ohio’s Sunnyside locations.

Staffing 65 employees and open seven days a week, Sunnyside offers a broad variety of products.

“We sell everything from flower concentrate, vapes, topicals, medicinals,

tinctures, we got the full assortment,” added Keaton.

With so many medical dispensaries popping up across the state and country, Keaton said what makes Sunnyside stand out is education, “We really like to focus on the education piece and I think that’s what sets us apart. As well as the process we have.”

Granting 30% off for veterans and indigents, Sunnyside also offers a points-based reward system for medical marijuana sales. Customers earn one point for every dollar you spend toward future purchases.

The dispensary welcomes both walk-ins and online orders through their website, where a state ID is required for eligible patients and a medical card for those interested in medical products.

Sunnyside location in Cincinnati, on Feb. 21, 2025. Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

BEST BAR MAC’S

BEST MUSIC VENUE

BOGART’S

Mac’s Pizza Pub pictured on Feb. 20, 2025. Erik Hemmert | Staff Photographer

Bogart’s in Cincinnati, on Feb. 26, 2025. Tavish Sweeney | Staff Photojournalist

Yung Gravy performs at Bogart’s in Cincinnati on Oct. 11, 2024. Lydia Schembre | Multimedia Editor

NATHAN HAWKS’ RECORD-BREAKING KICKS

Fans and students have voted Cincinnati kicker Nathan Hawks’ record-breaking field goals against Miami (Ohio) as the best sports moment of 2024.

The two kicks made Hawks the first Bearcats kicker to make two field goals of 50-plus yards in the same game, helping Cincinnati reclaim the Victory Bell after losing it in 2023.

Hawks and Cincinnati Athletics were not available for comment.

“I remember Coach [Scott Satterfield] telling me that was the first game a UC kicker has hit two 50-plus-yard field goals, so that was awesome. I had no idea that was a thing,” Hawks said after the game against the RedHawks.

Part of what made the moment so significant was that Hawks was never supposed to take those kicks. Before the game, Cincinnati’s starting kicker was junior Carter Brown. After Brown missed two kicks to start the season, the Bearcats held competitions in practice to determine the team’s next starting kicker.

Hawks won the job, and the rest was history. He remained the Bearcats’ placekicker for the rest of the season, his final year of college eligibility.

For Hawks, the moment was a long time coming.

The Greenon High School graduate from Enon, Ohio, began his college career at Division III Wittenberg, where he spent most of his freshman year handling kickoffs. He attempted one field goal, making a 40-yarder, and went 2-for-3 on extra points.

As a sophomore, he was still not the primary kicker but made all three field goals he attempted and converted 17 of 19 extra points.

After the season, Hawks entered the transfer portal. With little interest from schools,

TYLER EASTERDAY SPORTS EDITOR

BEST SPORTS MOMENT OF 2024

he enrolled at the University of Cincinnati as a student and arranged a tryout with the football team.

However, he tore his quad and hip flexor before the tryout, postponing it until the week before 2023 fall camp. He made the team and handled kickoffs for the final six games of the season.

All of this led up to his record-breaking performance—the best moment of 2024 for Cincinnati athletics.

BEST PIZZA

ADRIATICO’S

Kicker Nathan Hawks (96) celebrates with teammates during the Bearcats’ game against the Miami RedHawks on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024 at Yager Stadium in Oxford, OH. Lydia Schembre | Multimedia Editor

Studio photos of Adriatico’s pizza on Feb. 18, 2025. Erik Hemmert | Staff Photographer