Hello, Hollywood. We've missed you. A field of 170-plus hopefuls descended on Southern Calofornia last month, trying to parlay their Golden Tickets into spots in the semifinals. It all went down last month, and we'll know who's in the Top 24 by next Wednesday. (Read a list of contestants on my radar here.) The biggest story heading into tonight's episode is the debut of Ellen Degeneres. Press reports indicate she has settled into her seat at the judges' table and she's taking her role rather seriously. The popular talk show host previously said Simon Cowell meaner than she thought he'd be. And while we're on topic of judges, let's talk about Howard Stern. A report today from The Daily Beast threw water on rumors that the shock jock will replace Simon, who's leaving at the end of this season. Idol insiders told Richard Rushfield Stern isn't in the running. That decision wouldn't be made for months, anyway. Read more AFTER the break ...

Governor Perdue has recently proposed a new plan to give teachers raises based on their performance. If passed this will come into affect in 2013.

Some women like flowers, but others would rather get something else for a Valentine's Day gift. Cudos has a solution. The store is having a wish list party on Tuesday.

Like most towns, Augusta used to catch fire a lot.

Earth Fare is having a Super Bowl celebration on Saturday. Visitors can get free food and enter to win an I-pod Nano.