Michael Sumler, known to fans as “Chicago Mike,” died late Saturday night in a car crash on Veterans Memorial Highway near Buckner Road in Mableton. He was 71. Sumler was a longtime member of Kool & The Gang, the legendary funk and R&B group. He was behind the wheel when his car collided with another […]
Posted inSpecial Features
Georgia’s Gaming Community Shares Insights on Digital Evolution
The gaming landscape in Georgia is transforming as digital platforms gain popularity. Residents are expressing varied opinions on how this shift is affecting their gaming habits and preferences. The introduction of online casinos into the gaming scene has sparked diverse reactions among the local community. As digital gaming becomes more prevalent in Georgia, it’s essential […]
Posted inCrime
Former Gwinnett County IT Deputy Director Arrested
James Smith, former Deputy Director of Infrastructure and Operations in Gwinnett County’s Department of Information Technology, was arrested this morning following an investigation into financial misconduct. The Gwinnett County Treasury Division flagged suspicious activity on May 15 related to a vendor payment, prompting an immediate police investigation. Authorities determined Smith allegedly altered financial documents in […]
Posted inCrime
29 Drunk Boating Arrests in Georgia on Memorial Day Weekend
Georgia’s lakes and rivers stayed safer this Memorial Day weekend. The Department of Natural Resources reports zero boating deaths despite heavy holiday traffic. 🚨 Why It Matters: Boating under the influence remains a serious problem on Georgia waterways, with 29 arrests statewide during the three-day weekend. Safe boating practices directly impact the lives of thousands […]
Posted inSponsored
The Current Situation of Online Gaming in Georgia
Georgia’s gambling rules? Let’s just say they’re about as clear as a foggy morning in the Appalachian foothills. While states like New Jersey and Michigan rake in millions from online betting, Georgia’s still playing hard to get. But a new bill might change that, sparking a showdown between “Let’s cash in!” and “Not so fast!” […]
Posted inEducation
Meet The Cherokee County School District’s Newest Leaders
Jennifer Williams and Lauren Holtzer will step into key leadership roles in Cherokee County School District this fall, bringing decades of combined education experience to their new positions. 👩💼 Meet The New Leaders: Williams will take over as principal at Oak Grove Elementary STEAM Academy after spending 16 years in education. She most recently worked […]
Posted inWeather
Severe Storms Threaten North Georgia Today Through Friday
Scattered thunderstorms could turn severe across north and central Georgia today, with dangerous conditions expected to continue through the end of the week. 🌩️ Why It Matters: These storms threaten to bring damaging winds, hail, and heavy rainfall to communities across the region, potentially causing property damage and dangerous driving conditions for residents. ⚠️ Weather […]
Posted inTraffic & Transportation
Hit-and-Run Driver Flees After Causing Serious Crash on I-285
A 57-year-old Austell man suffered serious injuries Monday when a dark sedan allegedly caused his vehicle to crash into a median barrier on I-285 before fleeing the scene. What We Know: The collision happened around 11:19 a.m. Monday on I-285 eastbound near the I-75 merge in Cobb County. According to police investigators, a white 1996 […]
Posted inLaw
When You Can Sue for Scooter Injuries and What You Can Recover
When you’re riding a scooter, you expect to get from one place to another safely. But if someone else’s careless actions cause you harm, you have the right to hold them responsible. That means you might be able to sue them for your injuries and receive compensation to help cover your losses. If you’re dealing […]
Posted inIn The News
Water Main Break in Atlanta’s Paces Neighborhood: What We Know
Crews are working to repair a possible water main break at the intersection of Nancy Creek Road Northwest and West Paces Ferry Road Northwest, with some residents reporting low water pressure Thursday morning. 💧 Why It Matters: Water main breaks can disrupt service for homes and businesses, force road closures, and delay commutes. Immediate repairs […]
Posted inRecreation
Savannah Dog Park Closes Next Week for Major Upgrades
A popular Savannah dog park will shut down temporarily starting Monday for renovations aimed at improving safety and amenities. 🐾 Why It Matters: The Mother Mathilda Beasley Dog Park serves hundreds of pets and owners weekly. The closure impacts daily routines for locals who rely on the space for exercise and socialization. 🔧 What’s Happening: […]
Posted inGeorgia People
Georgia TikTok Influencer Anna Grace Phelan Dies at 19 After Cancer Battle
Anna Grace Phelan, a 19-year-old social media influencer from Jefferson, Georgia, died May 23 after a public and deeply personal battle with brain cancer that drew national attention and inspired thousands online. What We Know: Phelan became widely known on TikTok, where she documented her glioblastoma diagnosis and treatment for nearly 150,000 followers. Her videos […]
Posted inOpinion
Has The Internet Killed Dating?
Dating today looks nothing like the classic “I’ll pick you up at 5 with roses and chocolates” playbook. Now, it’s a high-stakes game of emotional dodgeball with a dizzying set of unwritten rules. The “3-month rule.” The “talking stage.” The “soft launch.” You practically need a flowchart just to know what to call someone you’ve […]
Posted inCrime
Tifton Teacher Charged With Assaulting Students
A Tifton special education teacher surrendered to authorities earlier this month after being accused of assaulting students at Eighth Street Middle School, police said. Dixie Hardy, 55, faces felony and misdemeanor charges following a five-day investigation sparked by a school board complaint What We Know: The Tift County School Board alerted police May 9 about […]
Posted inSpecial Features
Classic vs. Modern: Comparing Blackjack Variants in Today’s Online Casinos
Blackjack has long been a casino favorite, known for its speed, strategy, and player control. In 2025, the game continues to evolve, especially online, where new variants range from classic formats to versions with added twists and features. For today’s players, whether newcomers or seasoned gamblers, navigating these options can be overwhelming. This article breaks […]
Posted inRecreation
Y’all Watch This: Try This Jump to Make a Huge Splash at The Pool This Summer
Researchers at Georgia Tech studied the most effective way for pool divers to make a big splash this summer. Scientists went to New Zealand to study the Manu jump of the Māori people. The traditional jump instructs divers to hit the water in a V shape then quickly straighten out underwater to make a huge […]
Posted inWeather
Memorial Day Storm Threat: Georgia Braces for Thunder, Hail, and Soaked Picnics
Memorial Day cookouts and pool parties across Georgia might need a raincheck—or at least a sturdy umbrella—as thunderstorms gear up to crash the holiday with wind, hail, and enough rain to drown your potato salad. 🌩️ What We Know: Scattered storms will roll in this afternoon and linger overnight, packing strong wind gusts, small hail, […]
Posted inCrime
Woodstock Man Found Guilty of Kidnapping and Assault
A Cherokee County jury found Larry Ray Holt, 47, guilty of kidnapping and assaulting a woman during a violent domestic dispute that required a child to call 911 for help. The conviction follows a three-day trial detailing injuries prosecutors called “brutal and deliberate.” What We Know: Holt was convicted May 22 on five charges, including […]
