A few more of our favorites: a look back at our top stories of 2025 (from the second half of the year)

If the first part of our lookback at our top stories of year isn't enough (click HERE to read the article), then you're certain to take a similar look at our look back at the second half of the year.

With 2026 upon us, these stories hit a little differently, so let's commence and take a look at our six-pack (plus our 2 honorable mentions):

• July 2025. The stars truly shine brightly, especially when it comes to an all-star game. In our case, covering the Swingman Classic to kick off All-Star Week via Major League Baseball is truly special, as we not only interview some Hall of Famers and former players, but taking a peek into the future as the top 50 HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) participate in the 3rd edition of this future stars showcase.

• August 2025. Once the spring and summer practices are complete, we get to see the early results of being "Built in the Dark" coming to light. The opening game of the season for Wake Forest football features a new head coach (Jake Dickert), new players, and a new attitude. And who knew their 10-9 opening game win would feature two teams who make bowl games (as Kennesaw State finishes the season 10-4 and winners of Conference USA)?

• September 2025. A 5K run/walk to help benefit a segment of the community in need is always a good thing. However, when it comes to working with our senior community, we may not always be aware of the needs of this audience. Thanks to the ongoing work of Mending the Gap, Inc., we get to learn first-hand what they do and how others can lend support (click HERE to read our article).

• October 2025. Hosting the 3rd edition of #AnElegantEveningOfJazz, the top-notch jazz event not only delivers on stage, but in the Clayton County Community. Under the leadership of Dr. Shenita Connally and support from the community, a donation is made to the jazz ensemble at Morrow High School to support their programs (click HERE to read the article).

• November 2025. We return to the gridiron as Wake's win over 14th ranked Virginia is huge; their 16-9 win on the road is not only the only loss during regular season conference play Virginia experiences (they would make the ACC Championship Game and lose to Duke), but it makes them bowl eligible for the first time since 2022. Adding to the month's success is a 28-12 win over the University of North Carolina and their heralded coach (who learned the college game is a little different from the pros, as they finish up 4-8 overall).

• December 2025. The creative and performing arts are in style. Black-tie affairs during the holidays are in style. Celebrating women who are breast cancer survivors and providing a means of support and encouragement for them, their caregivers, and support network is in style. And supporting #APlaceCalledLove to provide improved access to said women is in style; this is just part of the story of Styletainment as they host their 5th annual gala (click HERE to read our article).

And just like we did for Part 1, here's 2 stories which are our honorable mentions and "bridges" for other stories:

• The return of the author. In dropping his first release since 2022, not only does he make headway as a participating author for the Conyers Book Festival and Carolinas International Book Fair, but he gets introduced to some great work taking place via the Parkview High School PTSA (click HERE to read the article) and forthcoming work via Miss Parkview Pageant (click HERE to read the article).

• Time to #JoinTheBattle. With the ECHL players' strike lasting from December 26th through 29th (as the players' union and the owners reach an agreement), there's no delay to catch the exciting game-play of the Atlanta Gladiators. The affiliate of the NHL's Nashville Predators and AHL's Milwaukee Admirals are having a solid season as they are only 2 points out of 1st place in the ECHL South Division (19-6-0-0/38 points). Thanks to outstanding defense spearheaded by their goaltending, they are allowing less than 2 goals per game (1.96 goals per game in 25 total games), as they look to build on their success in returning to game-play on January 2nd at 7:05pm at Greenville to face the Swamp Rabbits, one of their division rivals.

2025 is full of tremendous stories and moments. While we highlighted a few, it's a reminder there's many which leave an impact.

This just provides a reminder of what is and what is yet to come.

We'll look forward to more in 2026!

Notes: For those photo-grids on the MLB All-Star Game, EmoryRose Photography is a contributor. You may enjoy related footage on our channel as we conclude 2025 and look forward to 2026.