Connect with us

Mississippi News

Not just another sports story

Published

on

Not just another sports story

I have been covering Mississippi Sports for 56 of my 69 years. After more than half a century, I still look to give Mississippians uniquely Mississippi sports stories – and historical perspective on those stories – they won’t find anywhere else.

A recent case in point was my piece on tiny Oak Hill Academy in West Point, specifically the school’s golf team, which is dominating its opposition like few, if any, high school teams have in Mississippi history. The Oak Hill Rangers recently won the state’s 3A private school championship by a whopping 83 shots in a one-day tournament. A former Mississippi high school golfer myself, my article tells you the story behind the story – how it has happened – and lends historical perspective to a uniquely Mississippi story.

In another recent column, I told a compelling story of a Laurel softball umpire who was physically attacked by a fan. But the column goes beyond that ugly night, telling how these incidents have become all too common in youth league and high school sports and have led directly to a shortage of high school umpires and officials in the state.

Rick Cleveland

There is much not to like about Mississippi but also much to love. Mainly, I love the people and how creative our people have always been – as writers, musicians, entertainers and athletes. I tell sports stories for a living and no state produces more compelling sports stories per capita than Mississippi.” 

Rick Cleveland, Sports Columnist

My goal at Mississippi Today is to show how and why sports are such an integral part of Mississippi society and to give our readers something on our website that they will not find in any other medium. 

I grew up playing and then covering Mississippi sports, and have seen first-hand the role sports have played in the integration of the state’s schools and society. I saw the role sports played in the changing of the Mississippi flag. Mississippians care passionately about their games and the people who play them. These are stories that need to be told.

You can help support this important sports journalism by creating a recurring donation of any amount during the final days of our Spring Member Drive.

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Mississippi News

Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis

Published

on

www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-23 08:19:00

SUMMARY: Pope Francis remains in critical condition, receiving high supplemental oxygen following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions. The 88-year-old, who has a history of lung issues, was hospitalized on February 14 due to a complex lung infection resulting in pneumonia. A Vatican update reported that he stabilized overnight but continues to face a reserved prognosis. While unable to celebrate Mass, he sent a message for prayers, highlighting the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Doctors warn of potential sepsis, but no signs have emerged yet. Recent decisions by Francis indicate his awareness of his declining health and preparations for succession.

Read the full article

The post Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis appeared first on www.wjtv.com

Continue Reading

Mississippi News

Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23

Published

on

www.wjtv.com – Kaitlin Howell – 2025-02-21 06:33:00

SUMMARY: This weekend in Mississippi (February 21-23), enjoy various activities including the William Winter Free Day at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, and the “Art in Bloom” Flower Show in Natchez. Other highlights are the 31st Annual Chili Feast and “Of Salt and Spirit” quilt exhibition in Jackson, along with the Mississippi Blues Marathon. Engage in arts, culture, and wellness at the No Flinch Faith Women’s Empowerment Conference, and explore local markets in Jackson and Natchez. In Hattiesburg, participate in a Mardi Gras Tennis Mixer and various family-friendly events, culminating in the Monster Truck Mayhem show.

Read the full article

The post Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23 appeared first on www.wjtv.com

Continue Reading

Mississippi News

All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto

Published

on

www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-18 05:00:00

SUMMARY: A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis to Toronto flipped over while landing at Pearson Airport on February 17, 2025. All 80 passengers and crew survived, with 18 hospitalized for minor injuries. Blowing snow and high winds were reported at the time of landing. Passengers described a forceful landing, with one recalling the plane suddenly rolling sideways. Initial investigations indicated normal communications before the incident, and experts noted that the aircraft is designed to handle adverse weather. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating, particularly the missing right wing. No fatalities were reported.

Read the full article

The post All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto appeared first on www.wjtv.com

Continue Reading

Trending