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COLUMBIA — South Carolina women's basketball is facing No. 7 Utah in the Basketball Hall of Fame Showcase, the Gamecocks' last ranked matchup of 2023.

No. 1 South Carolina (8-0) faces the Utes (8-1) on Sunday (2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN) at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, home of the WNBA's Connecticut Sun. It is the first meeting between the programs.

Utah has faced one ranked opponent this season, No. 14 Baylor, and lost 84-77.

The Gamecocks have three wins against ranked opponents on their résumé, though then-No. 11 Maryland has since dropped out of the top 25.

Alissa Pili fuels dominant Utah offense

Utah's stats from 3-point range are eye-popping: The team shoots 43.6% from beyond the arc, which ranks No. 2 in the country. Five players are shooting better than 50% on 3-pointers, and 12 of 13 have made 20% or better on at least four attempts. The Utes have the No. 1 scoring offense in the nation, averaging 96.2 points per game.

A unicorn among post players, star forward Alissa Pili averages 23.2 points per game shooting nearly 57% from 3-point range. The 6-foot-2 senior shoots 73.6% from the field and averages 5.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. Pili is the reigning Pac-12 Player of the Year and was named to the 2023-24 Naismith Women's Player of the Year watch list.

How will Utes adapt to losing Gianna Kneepkens?

Gianna Kneepkens, the No. 2 scorer behind Pili, was ruled out for the season Monday after breaking multiple bones in her foot, and the team has played just one game without her, scoring a season-low 74 points in its win against St. Joseph's. Kneepkens was 10th in the country in 3-point percentage, hitting 54%, and No. 17 in 3's made with 27.

Senior forward Dasia Young started in place of Kneepkens against St. Joseph's, but she had just two points in 19 minutes. Wisconsin transfer Matyson Wilke played more than 20 minutes for just the second time this season and was Utah's third-highest scorer with nine points, and had three rebounds and two blocks.

Turnovers are key for both teams

In its loss to Baylor, turnovers were at the center of Utah's struggles. It gave up the ball 18 times, four by Pili, and Baylor capitalized with 27 points. Utah also struggled to generate turnovers, forcing 13 for just 11 points.

South Carolina is also on a turnover-prone streak. It gave up possession 20 times in a back-and-forth win over Duke, and committed another 16 against Morgan State. Utah averages 14 turnovers per game compared to the Gamecocks' 13.5.

Prediction

South Carolina 95, Utah 71: The Gamecocks' defense is better than anything Utah has seen this season. The Utes take an early lead, but they struggle to keep pace without Kneepkens once South Carolina settles in for the second half.

Follow South Carolina women's basketball reporter Emily Adams on X @eaadams6 and subscribe to The Greenville News for exclusive Gamecocks content: https://subscribe.greenvilleonline.com/offers.

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COLUMBIA — One of the capital city’s longest running breweries, River Rat, will close after 10 years in business, owners announced in a Facebook post.

The brewery, which sits right near Williams Brice Stadium, is among the last of the small Columbia breweries that opened during the craft beer boom of the early 2010s to close its doors. Of some of the original breweries in town, Columbia Craft and Hunter-Gatherer remain.

Mike Tourville, the brewery’s owner, told Free Times that he’d had the brewpub on the market for potential buyers for a year and decided that it was time for him to retire after a decade in an industry that’s notoriously hard in South Carolina — between what Tourville called “archaic” laws regarding beer, wine and liquor and an array of taxes that strangled business. Combine that with a growing supply of craft beer producers without an increased demand for it and Tourville said he knew it was time to bow out.

“There’s just so much product out there, it’s like what do you drink?” Tourville said. “You had to rely on being a brewpub (on top of distribution) in order to keep your doors open and it’s just not something I wanted to do... for the next 10 years.”

River Rat among the OGs of Columbia craft brewers

Over the brewery’s decade in operation, Columbia saw the rise and fall of many breweries and taprooms as the demand for craft beer grew across the country, legislation changed what beer producers could and couldn’t do and more breweries with bigger development dollars came in.

River Rat began in 2013, after Tourville developed a hobby for brewing beer out of his house. His friends liked it enough, he told Free Times when his brewery celebrated eight years in business, that he decided to open his own brewery.

Aside from Hunter Gatherer and Conquest Brewing Company, Tourville’s place was one of the few brewpubs in the Columbia market at the time. And not long after Tourville founded his brewery — which became known for offerings like its award-winning Astronaut Sauce IPA — Swamp Cabbage Brewing joined the scene in August 2014. Conquest and Swamp Cabbage have since closed.

Though small in size, the handful of breweries were authentically old-school. Modern taprooms with live music and weekly trivia were still on the horizon for the city. But, over the last decade, that’s changed. The smaller, micro-breweries often led by a local guy with a small staff, paved way for larger productions with impressive taprooms, all while navigating changing state laws.

How the Stone Bill affected Columbia’s smaller breweries

Right after Tourville began his brewery, which he initially envisioned as a production facility, then-Governor Nikki Haley signed the “Stone Bill” into law in 2014. The bill made major changes to what beer producers were allowed to do, namely allowing production breweries like Tourville’s to operate restaurants and sell food, while easing restrictions on how much a customer could purchase.

You’d think that would’ve equated to more business at places like River Rat and, in some ways, it did. What started as a production brewery became a brewpub, offering things like trivia and Sunday brunch. But it meant that businesses like Tourville’s and ones like Swamp Cabbage, which had built their facilities in less-busy areas were fighting an uphill battle to get customers to their side of town. The idea had been that they’d focus more on production and distribution and less on outfitted taprooms and food offerings.

“The Stone Bill changed everything because it just meant everyone wanted to get into the business, everyone wanted to open up a brewery. Everybody saw it as a cash cow,” Tourville said. “You just don’t have that revenue stream without being a restaurant and getting people in your door... it’s just not a sustainable business plan to be a production brewery and a brewpub.”

A brewery that has been a popular destination in Columbia for the last decade has announced it plans to close.

River Rat Brewery, located at 1231 Shop Road, announced Tuesday night on its social media channels that it plans to close its doors. Its last day open to the public will be Dec. 30.

“We want to thank all of our wonderful customers and employees for supporting us over these past 10+ years,” River Rat posted. “Memories that will always be close to our heart! RRB grew organically over these last 10 years and what a pleasure it was to serve the great community of Columbia and beyond.”

River Rat was one of the first handful of Columbia-based craft breweries to hit the local scene about a decade ago. Two other breweries that, like River Rat, were located near Williams-Brice Stadium also closed in recent years: Conquest Brewing, which was located on Stadium Road, closed in 2019, and Swamp Cabbage Brewing on Brookwood Drive closed in 2022

River Rat didn’t offer a reason for its closing in its Tuesday social media posts.

“Though it is time to end this chapter we want to thank all who visited our establishment throughout these 10 years,” River Rat wrote. “The experiences we shared with our customers and employees will forever be in our hearts.”

The brewery said it will have a 25% off sale on all merchandise and beer this week.

Aside from a host of original beers — Kerry’s Peanut Butter Porter is a favorite — River Rat also has offered a full food menu at the Shop Road site, including burgers, barbecue sandwiches, quesadillas, wings and more.

The coming River Rat closure is the latest news in a bruising few weeks on the Midlands dining scene, as a host of long-running establishments have either closed or announced closures.

Al’s Upstairs, the Italian restaurant that has been at 300 Meeting St. in West Columbia for 44 years, announced its coming closure. Owner Al Loftis is retiring, and the restaurant’s last day will be Dec. 19.

Village Idiot announced on Tuesday that it would close its Forest Acres location at 4517 Forest Drive by the end of the month. The Forest Drive location has been in business for 14 years. The company’s Five Points and Whaley Street locations remain open, and franchising plans for the company are continuing.

In late November, Alodia’s Cucina Italiana closed the doors at its Irmo location at 2736 North Lake Drive after 15 years. The Lexington Alodia’s remains open.

And Jin Jin Chinese restaurant, which had been located at 469 Sunset Blvd. in West Columbia for 29 years, announced on Dec. 2 it would be shutting its doors.

This story was originally published December 6, 2023, 9:08 AM.

Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann wants Richland County to oppose an $80 million bond to expand the Riverbanks Zoo.

“Richland County, and particularly Columbia, stands at a critical juncture. High property taxes are consistently identified as the primary inhibitor of growth in our region,” Rickenmann wrote in an open letter sent to Richland County Council members and published on his Facebook page.

“Tax increases are paid upfront by businesses and property owners, but the costs are transferred on to the segments of our population that can least afford it. At some point, we must start thinking about the people who live here and remove the barriers enabling their long-term financial health, instead of adding them,” the letter continues.

RIchland County Council is poised to approve an $80 million bond to pay for a major expansion of the Riverbanks Zoo, which would include a new orangutan habitat and a nature preserve among other improvements.

On Tuesday, County Council approved the bond on a second reading 8-3. It requires one more vote before it is officially approved.

Tuesday’s meeting also offered the public a chance to comment on the proposal, and overwhelmingly those in attendance urged the council to support the bond. Zoo members wearing stickers reading “I heart Riverbanks Zoo and Garden” crowded into the council chambers to show their support.

The supporters included Riverbanks’ board members; someone speaking on behalf of the state’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism; business leaders; a former council member; parents and more.

“I care about taxes, too,” said councilman Paul Livingston in explaining his vote. “I do not see this as a tax increase. I see this as an investment.”

The $80 million bond would be paid with property taxes by both Richland and Lexington counties, with Richland County carrying $44.8 million of the bond and Lexington County carrying $35.2 million.

Taxpayers would see an increase of a maximum of $7.20 on $100,000 of assessed property value, with the higher rate beginning in 2025 and reaching its peak in 2026, then decreasing each year until the bond is met, the zoo reported earlier this year.

Richland County rejected the $80 million bond in 2022 but this year has given the bond an initial approval.

“We said no at that time because we take it very seriously when we do anything that increases the burden on taxpayers,” Councilmember Chakisse Newton said during the Nov. 14 meeting in which council gave an initial approval of the bond, 10-1.

Council Chairman Overture Walker was the sole no vote at that time. On Tuesday, Councilmen Jason Branham and Don Weaver also voted against the measure along with Walker.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Walker said he opposed the bond in part because the county will also likely ask voters to support another transportation sales tax in 2024.

“While the zoo’s request is important, I don’t view it as a necessity,” Walker said.

In his letter, Rickenmann urged the County Council to consider alternative funding sources for the zoo’s expansion.

“The decision to raise taxes should be a last resort,” Rickenmann wrote. He suggested leveraging accommodations and hospitality tax revenue, as well as public-private partnerships. His letter also suggests looking for grant opportunities.

“I have spoken with the zoo and attorneys on this issue and there are many other viable alternatives to raising property taxes,” Rickenmann wrote. “I urge you to take the time to examine all options and give them the due diligence they deserve before hiking taxes.”

Rickenmann encouraged residents to share his social media post widely and to call their county representatives to oppose the bond.

The mayor’s full letter can be read on his Facebook page.

Weaver, who represents west-central Richland County including the Forest Acres area, said he agrees with Rickenmann.

Weaver said he voted in favor of the item Nov. 14 so that it would have a public hearing and a full discussion, but he does not agree with approving an $80 million bond for an optional project.

“I know I’m going to disappoint some people,” Weaver said, explaining that he has had some calls from constituents asking him to approve the bond. Weaver added that he signed a “no new taxes” pledge when he ran for council.

“I am a zoo supporter. ... I think it’s great for economic development, but I just think the project is an overreach. It’s $80 million,” Weaver said. “A lot of us on council have said what about a $30 million or a $20 million project.”

Weaver said he also agrees that the project could be paid for differently, but he doesn’t think council has been able to do its due diligence to explore every option.

Earlier this year, the zoo unveiled its new $32 million aquarium and reptile conservation center, as well as other improvements, which included re-adding rhinos to the zoo.

The proposed $80 million bond would pay for the next phase of the zoo’s expansion.

In a statement responding to the mayor’s letter shared by the zoo’s spokesperson, zoo leadership said, “Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a shining example of the power of collaboration. For more than 50 years, the partnership between Richland County, Lexington County, private industry, and individual donors has helped fuel our thriving local economy by supporting the growth and success of Riverbanks.”

The statement continued, “Over the past five decades, there have been discussions around alternate funding options, but these suggestions do not take into account Riverbanks’ enabling legislation that established the Zoo as a special purpose district and a shared investment for the entire community. Riverbanks’ annual economic impact and the quality of life it brings to the Midlands has been made possible by decades of regional cooperation, and we look forward to a vibrant future for our community and their zoo.”

The statement from zoo leadership also notes that the next phase of expansion would raise the zoo’s annual economic impact to more than $175 million, “translating to tangible benefits for our community including job creation, tourism generation and increased educational and recreational opportunities.”

This article has been updated with information from Tuesday’s Richland County Council meeting.

This story was originally published December 5, 2023, 12:27 PM.

We are, perhaps more than ever, fascinated by holiday lights.

For some, it’s a tradition at home. Maybe it’s the contrast of cold, blustery December nights and the warm, colorful glow of hundreds, if not thousands, of illuminated bulbs. Or maybe we’ve just all seen “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” one too many times.

Either way, a short drive through any number of residential neighborhoods in the Midlands shows that many of us are enamored with lights during the Yuletide.

But it’s not just the residential displays that dot the local landscape. In recent years there has been an increasing number of organized, professional-grade holiday light events at venues across the Midlands. Some, like the Holiday Lights on the River at Saluda Shoals in the Irmo area, have been around for quite some time. Others, such as the Making Spirits Bright pop-up at Williams-Brice Stadium, are new on the scene.

Here’s a look at some of the top holiday lights destinations on tap for this season in the Midlands.

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 5:30-9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 7, 5:30-10:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 8, 5:30-10:30 p.m. (sold out)

1125 George Rogers Blvd., Columbia

Even though the University of South Carolina’s football season is over, there’s still a reason for folks to gather at Williams-Brice Stadium. Making Spirits Bright, which the university bills as a “holiday pop-up experience,” is set to make its debut. The event will feature, according to gamecocksonline.com, holiday-themed stadium light shows every 45 minutes throughout the night, access to various photo booth stations, and ornament decorating opportunities for kids. Guests can also purchase drinks from a full bar.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through gamecocksonline.com. Dec. 8 is already sold out.

Now through Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m.

6071 St. Andrews Road, Irmo.

The Holiday Lights on the River drive-thru holiday lights extravaganza hosted by the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission is a longstanding Christmas hallmark of the region. It features nearly 3 miles of lights and animated displays (Santa Claus dunking a basketball and aliens beaming up a bundle of presents are a couple favorites) that wind through the park. There also are a number of activities for kids and families, including a laser light show in the park’s wetlands trail, a hayride through lights and a chance to write letters to Santa.

Admission is $25 per car; $50 per 12-to-15-passenger van, trucks with trailer or limo; and $75 per bus with 16 passengers or more.

Now through Dec. 31, check firefliesholidaylights.com for a full calendar and times,

640 Freed St., Columbia.

Segra Park, home of the Columbia Fireflies minor league baseball team, is one of Columbia’s most popular summertime destinations. Now it has also become a go-to spot in the Christmas season, as well, as it lights up the BullStreet District with Fireflies Holiday Lights. The baseball park is festooned with more than a million LED Christmas lights, and the nightly event features vendors, visits with Santa Claus and a host of concessions for sale. The Fireflies’ slogan has long been “Let’s Glow,” and that takes on a whole new meaning with the holiday lights event.

Admission is $10 in November and will be $12 in December.

Dec. 8-24

Closed on Mondays; 6-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday

1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia.

The sparkling lights from the annual South Carolina State Fair aren’t the only illuminations that festoon the fairgrounds. December will bring the fifth annual Carolina Lights at the fairgrounds. The drive-thru event will include more than 100 individual LED light displays, with some returning favorites and some new displays for 2023. There also will be cookies and milk for sale each night, at about the halfway point of the drive-thru event.

Admission is $20 for cars, $35 for mini-buses (9-25 passengers) and $70 for vehicles with more than 25 passengers. You can get car passes for $15 if you purchase them by Dec. 7 at scstatefair.org/carolina-lights/.

Select nights through Jan. 14. Visit riverbanks.org/events/wild-lights for a full calendar. 5-9 p.m.

500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia.

For more than three decades, residents have enjoyed a holiday lights display at Riverbanks Zoo. Now, in 2023, the zoo has debuted a fresh take on the event, dubbed Wild Lights. The event features colorful, festive displays and exhibits, and the zoo touts a greater inspiration from nature in the new event. A news release from the zoo says guests can explore “nearly 60 larger-than-life, handcrafted lanterns throughout the zoo, from pollinators and plants to endangered (and even extinct) animals.” Santa is appearing at the zoo for the event through Dec. 23, and there are various interactive and photo opportunities

Ticket prices start at $14.99 and vary depending on depending on date. Visit riverbanks.org/events/wild-lights for more detailed ticket pricing information.