SUMMARY: Leakesville, Mississippi, aims to transform into a tourist destination with the upcoming ChickasaWaves inflatable water park. Local residents, like Mikel Franks, see this development as a means to attract visitors and stimulate economic growth. The park is expected to offer various water attractions, sandy beaches, and a restaurant, creating job opportunities for locals. Davey Busby, the park’s owner, hopes it will draw newcomers to the area, allowing them to enjoy a small vacation experience. Residents believe the influx of tourism will boost local businesses and create more jobs, signaling a hopeful future for Leakesville.

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SUMMARY: Public libraries in Gulfport, Mississippi, rely on federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, recently targeted for reduction by the Trump administration, leading to service suspensions. Libraries like the Jackson-George Regional Library System experience communication issues and uncertainties regarding their futures. Popular digital platform Hoopla, providing free access to various media, faces potential suspension, significantly affecting rural communities relying on such resources. Harrison County libraries remain temporarily funded, but concerns persist as resources dwindle. Hancock County Library System’s director highlights the challenge of maintaining services amidst budget cuts, prompting patrons to seek answers from local representatives.

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SUMMARY: Matias Orozco, a 13-year-old tennis prodigy from Picayune, is the WXXV Student Athlete of the Week. He discovered his passion for tennis at nine and was coached by his father, Oscar, a former player in Venezuela. Matias quickly rose to prominence, becoming the number one singles player for Picayune’s varsity team and winning the 12U Mississippi State Championship and back-to-back district titles. Ranked as the top 8th grader in Mississippi, Matias aims to win the state championship, a goal he’s working tirelessly toward. With the Maroon Tide advancing in playoffs, Matias is determined to achieve even greater success. 

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