If the best thing to say about a newscast is it's fun, then it isn't a real newscast. But WIS makes the news seem fun to deliver. The anchors know when to toss playful barbs and when to frown. For a scripted "show," these people seem sincere. Would the domestic violence bill have received as much attention this spring if a reporter from any other news station had been called stupid for questioning the watered-down bill's strength? Doubtful. And WIS reporter Kara Gormley took the insult in stride. That's professionalism. Wendy Pagonis

As the editor who had to be convinced that the aversion of twentysomething hipsters to mustaches was worthy of a cover story, I admit it was a hard sell. But Kevin Langston persevered in his lobbying effort, and the resulting story was a lighthearted yet informative work of pop sociology. Sometimes you've just gotta have fun. And if it takes not shaving to do it, so be it. Dan Cook

The people have spoken, and they reject the relentless and increasingly unhinged propaganda of right-wing radio. NPR offers insight where others only incite, and we're all better off for it. Thanks to NPR for proving that real journalism still has an audience. Dan Cook

Just grin and bear it, Columbia. Five Points might be a royal pain in the backside now, but these are the necessary growing pains we must endure if we want this potential cultural epicenter of Columbia to thrive. Think of what the Vista looked like 10 years ago and ask yourself if the hassles aren't worth it. Kevin Langston

Prognosticators are quick to note that Steve Spurrier's presence on the USC sidelines hasn't yielded quite the kind of results most were hoping for. Still, his coming to Columbia was arguably the biggest story of the year, and it has given Gamecock fans a newfound sense of hope and excitement. Keep in mind that he's not even completed his first full year. Things might come around once he gets his fingerprints into the program's recruiting system, etc. In the meantime, just enjoy the ride. Kevin Langston

Ahh readers, you warm this writer's heart. Jim DeMint - in general: That is so brilliant. Ever get the feeling that, standing in the half-light of TV cameras at press conferences on Capitol Hill, DeMint looks dazed, like he's not sure how he got there? Shame on this Upstate Republican for saying single mothers and gays shouldn't be allowed to teach in public schools. Why don't we reverse the curse and say sexually repressed, anal retentive, pandering, regressive Bible thumpers should be barred from the U.S. Senate. Eric Ward

Since 1994, the Blue Cactus Café in Five Points has developed a passionate customer base devoted to its blend of Korean and Southwestern food. It's also a slice of vegan paradise. Nearly the entire menu is vegan or can be made so, and the substitutions (tofu for chicken in the Spanish and Curry Chicken dinners, etc.) perform brilliantly in all cases. What sets Blue Cactus apart, besides its unique combination of cuisines, is the slow cooking and care given to the preparation of each dish. Ron Aiken

In a city surrounded by rivers, it's a shame Columbia doesn't have more riverside restaurants. So, not to discount New Orleans' deserved kudos or anything, but this is a no-brainer. When it comes to outdoor dining, a place has to have one thing: ambience. And you just can't build ambience on a sidewalk next to a busy street or on a patio facing a parking lot. New Orleans has what no other place does - a view of the Congaree river. Heidi Thomas

The Waffle House remains one of the few cash-only restaurants in the United States. The benefit is that customers expect this and always go there with enough cash to cover the check. This allows the quick, throw-down-the-money-and-leave exit, ideal during a breakup. It is also relatively cheap, it has limited seating capacity (and thus a limited audience), and there is a constant din to cover loud talking. Plus, it's open 24 hours so you can break up anytime, and nobody there cares about your personal business. Wendy Pagonis

The Williams family created this Southern food landmark in 1978 and Columbia is better for it. Although a chain, each of the 12 restaurants in and around Columbia have a small-town pinch that makes it seem like the one and only. Like any good Southern restaurant, Lizard's Thicket has friendly service and homemade desserts. And the coffee pours as long as the doors are open. Wendy Pagonis

For all of us who stay up way past bedtime at Art Bar every Wednesday night, the best karaoke in Columbia is obvious. Combine a vast and eclectic song selection with a wildly enthusiastic crowd, random prize nights and occasional nudity (don't ask), and you've got the best mid-week relief in town. Host Chris Bickel keeps the action moving all night, so you might want to plan your excuse for missing work on Thursday. Jim Small