Best of the ’Burgh

Best Mascot: Roc

This shouldn’t surprise anyone. Through the exhilarating highs (What up, Notre Dame?) and soul-crushing lows (Oh hi, Florida State) that comprise every typically frustrating and sometimes fantastic year of Pitt sports, Roc stands strong through it all. He is the eternal beacon of Pitt pride — a silent, madly gesticulating emblem of campus unity and all things Pitt. 

Editors’ Pick: Pirate Parrot

Best Free Entertainment: Pitt Arts

Nothing beats seeing a play for free, especially when that includes a meal paid for by the University. Pitt Arts gives University of Pittsburgh undergraduate students the fantastic opportunity to attend some of the city’s premiere arts events for little to no charge. There is no better way to enjoy the urban setting that Pitt is a part of than by participating in events run by Pitt Arts. The organization works with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and the City Theatre Company, just to name a few. As students, make sure to take advantage of an organization that is actively trying to help you become more cultured.

Editors’ Pick: Pitt Arts

Best Local Band: Dazzletine 

Unsigned though undeterred, Dazzletine is lighting up Pittsburgh’s music scene with its blend of acid-laced, ‘70s-style glam rock and psychedelic power pop. With the musical vibe of a sonic fondue pot containing bits of David Bowie, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Stooges and Stone Temple Pilots, Dazzletine performs its intriguingly eclectic style in a way that will make most listeners want to come back. Some will be hooked, and others will be curious. Check out the group’s 2011 EP, Heart, Mind, Bodies, available on the band’s site through SoundCloud or buy it from iTunes. Most importantly, be sure to attend the band’s December 6 show at The Shop downtown.

Editors’ Pick: Shira

Best Pittsburgh Sports Team: Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates are a historic and proud organization that has seen many of baseball’s legends in its roster throughout its existence. Their legacies are solidified in the fabric of the city as street names and other infrastructure. Perhaps most famous is the Clemente Bridge, named after the Hall of Fame left fielder Roberto Clemente, who played for Pittsburgh from 1955 to 1972. The Bucs had a breakout 2013 season, snapping a North American record of 20 consecutive losing seasons and making the playoffs for the first time since 1992. Though they fell short of the World Series, the 2013 Pirates inspired all of Pittsburgh, and they made their presence known throughout Major League Baseball as an emerging force in the National League Central division. 

Editors’ Pick: Pittsburgh Pirates

Best Radio Station: 96.1 KISS FM

Ever since it began 13 years ago, 96.1 KISS FM, or, as the station would describe itself, “Pittsburgh’s Hit Music Station,” has become the most popular radio in the city. Sporting rhythmic and dance music, current Top 40 hits and entertaining programs such as “The Morning Freak Show,” “Tall Cathy” and “Scottro,” KISS FM continues to offer a variety of effortlessly listenable material that has made the station so popular among students of Pitt and many other casual listeners. And with popularity at a peak, it’s likely that KISS will keep Pittsburgh grooving for years to come.

Editors’ Pick: 105.9 WXDX

Best Pittsburgh Neighborhood: Shadyside

Shadyside is the quintessential Pittsburgh neighborhood, combining a cozy residential district with upscale retail stores and a myriad of restaurants. Walnut Street, Ellsworth Avenue and South Highland Avenue make up the three major streets in Shadyside, and each has a distinct feel and a variety of shops. Shadyside’s other distinguishing feature is its extension of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, as well as neighboring university, Chatham. Just a short bus ride away from Oakland, Shadyside’s residents and shop owners are lucky to live in Pittsburgh’s “best” neighborhood.

Editors’ Pick: Squirrel Hill

Best Local TV: KDKA

Carrying such staples of American television as “NCIS,” “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “CSI,” “The Big Bang Theory,” and, of course, NFL football, Pittsburgh’s CBS station meets the TV needs of just about everyone. KDKA also owns and operates Pittsburgh’s CW, where you can catch everything from “America’ Next Top Model” to “Judge Mathis.” Also active on the radio front, KDKA runs 93.7 FM The Fan, which broadcasts Pitt basketball games on a regular basis. For one-stop entertainment shopping, Pittsburghers should look no further than their very own KDKA.

Editors’ Pick: WQED

Best Movie Theater: SouthSide Works Cinema 

The SouthSide Works Cinema has made a name for itself with its $6 bargain Mondays, student discounts ($8.25 with a valid ID) and close proximity to dining and shopping. Small and intimate, the SouthSide Works Cinema is the perfect place to bring a date after a filling Cheesecake Factory dinner or to see the latest blockbuster hit in a convenient setting. Make sure to take advantage of the theater’s many discounts, such as “no 3-D surcharge Wednesdays” and “Student Discount Thursdays,” where tickets are as low as $6.50.

Editors’ Pick: Lowes Waterfront