Michael Rodgers
Almaty, Gadsden
Reporter/Online producer for @gadsdentimes. RTs aren't endorsements, known to the state of California to cause cancer, etc.
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Articles by Michael Rodgers
Bay Waveland School District ranks No. 1 in state accountability scores
BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. (WLOX) — The Mississippi Department of Education released its 2025-26 state accountability scores, and the Bay Waveland School District earned the highest ranking of all 148 districts statewide. The district scored in the top 4% for reading, math and science proficiency, and in the top 2% for growth in math and reading. Nicole Menotti, assistant superintendent, said the district focused on proficiency.
Bay Waveland School District ranks No. 1 in state accountability scores
BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. (WLOX) — The Mississippi Department of Education released its 2025-26 state accountability scores, and the Bay Waveland School District earned the highest ranking of all 148 districts statewide. The district scored in the top 4% for reading, math and science proficiency, and in the top 2% for growth in math and reading. Nicole Menotti, assistant superintendent, said the district focused on proficiency.
Choctaw Tribe students visit Institute for Marine Mammal Studies
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Students from the Choctaw Tribe in Philadelphia, Mississippi, visited the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies to learn about marine life and the Gulf Coast. IMMS Director Moby Solangi said the students, who attend the Choctaw Indian School in Philadelphia, do not normally have the opportunity to see the Gulf Coast. “This is the Choctaw Indian School in Philadelphia. They don’t have the opportunity to see the Gulf Coast.
Inside the Biloxi Block Party for Cruisin’ the Coast
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — Cruisers took over the Biloxi Town Green and downtown for the Biloxi Block Party Wednesday. While Cruisin’ the Coast is celebrating 30 years, the block party started back in 2002 and has quickly become one of the most popular events each year. “The people, the cars. You know, no matter who you talk to, young or old, you’ve got the same interests, and if they’ve got that, there can be common ground anywhere,” said Chester Lamey, a Biloxi resident attending the block party.
Veteran golfers compete in national championship in Harrison County
HARRISON COUNTY, Miss. (WLOX) — More than 100 veteran golfers are in Harrison County for the Veteran Golfers Association National Championship. The veterans are playing at the Fallen Oak Golf Course. Winners will get the chance to play a practice round at the Masters in Augusta, Georgia. The opening ceremony on Monday included the presentation of the nation’s colors and the playing of all military branch anthems.
Southern Classics cruise-in and swap meet kicks off ahead of Cruisin' the Coast
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) — Southern Classics is holding its cruise-in and swap meet starting Friday, ahead of Cruisin' the Coast, which officially begins Sunday. The fourth annual Southern Classic Cruise and Swap Meet includes classic cars, live music, food and a raffle for a 1940 Chevy Deluxe. The raffle will be drawn Saturday, Oct. 3 and tickets are $10 apiece. This is the first time the event has been held over two days.
Ocean Springs students celebrate National Walk to School Day
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) — Students in Ocean Springs walked to school Friday morning to celebrate National Walk to School Day. Oak Park and Ocean Springs Upper Elementary students started at Mosaic Church, then walked with teachers and parents to school. Pecan Park students met at Greyhound Stadium and walked over. Magnolia Park students left from the VFW building. Tri Hard Sports collaborated with the event, also teaching about e-bike safety.
Coast enthusiasts participate in North American Butterfly Association's annual butterfly count
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) — The North American Butterfly Association's fifth annual butterfly count kicked off Thursday in Pass Christian. The organization said these counts are a part of an effort to protect butterfly populations. Craig Marks, who led Thursday's count, said his connection to the count is personal.
Ocean Springs students celebrate National Walk to School Day
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) — Students in Ocean Springs walked to school Friday morning to celebrate National Walk to School Day. Oak Park and Ocean Springs Upper Elementary students started at Mosaic Church, then walked with teachers and parents to school. Pecan Park students met at Greyhound Stadium and walked over. Magnolia Park students left from the VFW building. Tri Hard Sports collaborated with the event, also teaching about e-bike safety.
Shrimp boat catches fire at Pass Christian Harbor
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) — A shrimp boat caught fire Monday morning at Pass Christian Harbor after an engine fire. Bill Bradley, owner of Bradley Seafood Company, said he noticed smoke coming out of an exhaust when the boat came in and quickly jumped into action. Firefighters arrived on the scene and put out the fire before any real damage was done. No one was hurt, and the captain was able to set sail again shortly after.
Shrimp boat catches fire at Pass Christian Harbor
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) — A shrimp boat caught fire Monday morning at Pass Christian Harbor after an engine fire. Bill Bradley, owner of Bradley Seafood Company, said he noticed smoke coming out of an exhaust when the boat came in and quickly jumped into action. Firefighters arrived on the scene and put out the fire before any real damage was done. No one was hurt, and the captain was able to set sail again shortly after.
Shrimp boat catches fire at Pass Christian Harbor
PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (WLOX) — A shrimp boat caught fire Monday morning at Pass Christian Harbor after an engine fire. Bill Bradley, owner of Bradley Seafood Company, said he noticed smoke coming out of an exhaust when the boat came in and quickly jumped into action. Firefighters arrived on the scene and put out the fire before any real damage was done. No one was hurt, and the captain was able to set sail again shortly after.
The Shed marks 14th year of free Labor Day barbecue, hits 11,000-sandwich milestone
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) — The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint gave away free barbecue pork sandwiches for the 14th consecutive year on Labor Day and hit a milestone of 11,000 sandwiches given away. Orrison said the Labor Day tradition has become a significant part of the Shed's identity. “Somebody today is going to get our 11,000th pork sandwich,” co-founder and co-owner Brad Orrison said.
Students get hands-on health care experience at Singing River Healthcare Academy
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) — Nearly 280 high school students practiced hands-on skills used by real health care professionals at the Singing River Healthcare Academy. Students moved through nine stations covering phlebotomy, pharmacy, CPR and surgery skills. Students participating in phlebotomy station. Workforce Development Manager Gayle Brown said the event shows students what a health care career looks like before they enter the workforce. “We can’t get enough students from the health care...
Gulfport firefighters train monthly to prepare for any call
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Firefighters in Gulfport train monthly, regardless of weather or time of day, to prepare for emergency calls. Training Chief Eric Valles said firefighters never know when the next call will come or what to expect when they arrive, which is why mastering the basics is important. “Not all fires will be the same, but the way we approach it should be,” Valles said.
MSBA Business Forward Tour makes stop in South Mississippi, bringing together business leaders, others
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — The Mississippi Small Business Association (MSBA) Business Forward Tour made a stop on the Coast Thursday morning at the Knight Non-Profit Center. It’s part of a 15-city tour, hitting every corner of the state. The tour aims to bring together business leaders, stakeholders and policymakers to talk about growth and the challenges local companies are facing. Some organizations received extra help to grow, including the Hancock County School District.
Jackson County Chamber honors nonprofits, small businesses at Anchor Awards
PASCAGOULA, Miss. (WLOX) — The Jackson County Chamber held its 18th annual Anchor Awards on Tuesday morning at the Hilton Garden Inn in Pascagoula. The annual breakfast celebrates local nonprofits and small businesses honored as the “anchors” of the Gulf Coast community. Organizers said the honored organizations are the driving force behind Jackson County’s recent success. Secretary of State Michael Watson served as the keynote speaker.
Update: Suspect identified following standoff in Moss Point, sheriff's office says
MOSS POINT, Miss. (WLOX) — The Jackson County Sheriff's Office arrested a man after a standoff that lasted about six hours Friday. Sheriff John Ledbetter announced the arrest of Marquis Odom, 44, of Jackson County, on armed robbery and domestic violence aggravated assault charges. The sheriff's office said the incident began about 5:40 a.m. when it received a report about a domestic altercation at a home on Wisteria Drive in Escatawpa.
New Moss Point superintendent speaks on focus areas moving forward
MOSS POINT, Miss. (WLOX) — Dr. Michael Battle has taken over as superintendent of the Moss Point School District. Battle is a former teacher and administrator with more than 25 years of educational experience, including nine years as principal of Gulfport Central Middle School. “I've had the opportunity to be in the hallways, talk with students and talk with teachers and engage with them about the learning taking place in the building.
Ship Island Excursions vessel catches fire, no injuries reported
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Ship Island Excursions has been operating for 100 years. Captain Louis Skrmetta said the company experienced a fire in the engine room for the first time early Thursday morning. “We're very fortunate that this wasn't a major fire. It was a small fire that occurred,” Skrmetta said. The Captain Pete traveled about 2 miles from the dock when the crew smelled something burning. Crew members checked the hatch to the engine room and saw the fire.
Ship Island Excursions vessel catches fire, no injuries reported
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Ship Island Excursions has been operating for 100 years. Captain Louis Skrmetta said the company experienced a fire in the engine room for the first time early Thursday morning. “We’re very fortunate that this wasn’t a major fire. It was a small fire that occurred,” Skrmetta said.
Saucier Senior Center celebrates 250 years of America
SAUCIER, Miss. (WLOX) — The Saucier Senior Center hosted a celebration Friday marking 250 years of American independence, drawing seniors from across the Gulf Coast. The event was originally scheduled for July 2 but was postponed after flooding from Arthur forced organizers to push back the date. Attendees traveled from as far as Perkingston and D'Iberville to take part. Center Director Jo Williams said the gathering was an opportunity to come together and recognize the nation's freedoms.
Saucier Senior Center celebrates 250 years of America
SAUCIER, Miss. (WLOX) — The Saucier Senior Center hosted a celebration Friday marking 250 years of American independence, drawing seniors from across the Gulf Coast. The event was originally scheduled for July 2 but was postponed after flooding from Arthur forced organizers to push back the date. Attendees traveled from as far as Perkingston and D’Iberville to take part. Center Director Jo Williams said the gathering was an opportunity to come together and recognize the nation’s freedoms.
Coffee with a Veteran event connects Coast service members with resources
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College hosted a Coffee with a Veteran event Wednesday morning. Former service members gathered to connect with one another and learn about resources available to them. Attendees were also offered a free breakfast buffet. Don Northcutt, who served in both the Air Force and the Army, said the event draws a familiar crowd.
Early morning fire damages Biloxi business, cause under investigation
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — A building that caught fire near Southern Avenue and Begonia Street early Wednesday morning in Biloxi has been contained, officials said. No injuries were reported. The fire broke out at Perry’s Refrigeration and Air Filter Services. The city of Biloxi sent an alert to residents early in the morning advising them to be aware of the fire in the area. Perry Tosch, the former business owner, said he retired in 2023 and had been using the building primarily for storage.
Keesler airmen practice hurricane readiness in 72-hour pack-out exercise Original
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — About 80 airmen at Keesler Air Force Base took part in a hurricane readiness exercise Friday, securing and relocating equipment to demonstrate they can pack and move operations in less than 72 hours. The drill was conducted by the 81st Training Wing, which trains specialists who calibrate the tools and systems that keep Air Force aircraft and operations running.
Southern Miss, Integer Technologies awarded $9.8M for Navy seabed warfare program
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — The University of Southern Mississippi and Integer Technologies have been awarded a $9.8 million option exercise contract modification from the Office of Naval Research for the next phase of their Intelligent Autonomous Systems for Seabed Warfare program. The modification brings the total cumulative contract value to $24.8 million and supports continued development of software for autonomous undersea missions.
Southern Miss, Integer Technologies awarded $9.8M for Navy seabed warfare program
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — The University of Southern Mississippi and Integer Technologies have been awarded a $9.8 million option exercise contract modification from the Office of Naval Research for the next phase of their Intelligent Autonomous Systems for Seabed Warfare program. The modification brings the total cumulative contract value to $24.8 million and supports continued development of software for autonomous undersea missions.
Museum director proposes 'eight flags' welcome sign at Biloxi Bay Bridge
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — The director of the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum brought a new proposal before the Biloxi Beautification Commission Wednesday, pitching a large welcome sign featuring the eight flags of Biloxi at the foot of the Biloxi Bay Bridge on Highway 90. Brandon Boudreaux presented the idea to commission members and gathered feedback, saying he hopes the proposal will move the concept closer to reality. An AI rendering of the sign was included in his presentation.
Mississippi Secretary of State Watson speaks at Gulf Coast legislative luncheon
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson spoke Tuesday at a joint legislative luncheon hosted by the Gulfport and Jackson County Chambers of Commerce. Watson delivered a legislative update to business and community leaders at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Harrison County Campus. His remarks covered several state initiatives, including efforts to combat human trafficking, a student ambassador program and steps to reduce regulations on small businesses.
Stone County students return to new high school campus
WIGGINS, Miss. (WLOX) — Stone County High School students returned to class Monday on a new campus, as the new Stone High School opened its doors for the first time. The $30 million facility replaces a 70-year-old campus that had cramped classrooms and flooding bathrooms. Algebra teacher Vicki Dedeaux said she is looking forward to what the new school brings. “I am excited for our community and for students, and the future to come in and see,” Dedeaux said.
Bay-Waveland school district cuts screens district-wide
BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. (WLOX) — The Bay-Waveland School District is reducing screen use across all grade levels starting this school year, with Superintendent Dr. Sandra Reed leading the shift back to paper-and-pencil instruction. “If an activity doesn’t require technology, we’re not going to use [technology],” Reed said.
Bay-Waveland school district cuts screens district-wide
BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. (WLOX) — The Bay-Waveland School District is reducing screen use across all grade levels starting this school year, with Superintendent Dr. Sandra Reed leading the shift back to paper-and-pencil instruction. “If an activity doesn’t require technology, we’re not going to use [technology],” Reed said. “If an activity doesn’t require technology, we’re not going to use [technology],” Reed said.
Bellemont Gardens residents, city leaders fill sandbags ahead of next rain
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — Volunteers and Biloxi city leaders lined the buildings at Bellemont Gardens with sandbags Wednesday in preparation for the next rainstorm, as residents and officials work toward a permanent drainage solution at the complex. Property manager Kimberly Woodward said the complex floods during even minor rain events. 18 tenants had water enter their homes during Tropical Storm Arthur, which moved through South Mississippi on June 18.
Long Beach salon teams up with Beauty With Heart foundation to help make Christmas happen for foster children
LONG BEACH, Miss. (WLOX) — One South Mississippi salon is already thinking about Christmas. On Friday, Third Gen Salon raised money to make sure foster children have presents under the tree this year. On Friday, Third Gen Salon raised money to make sure foster children have presents under the tree this year. For a minimum donation of $40, guests got a professional blowout. 100 percent of that money went to the “Beauty With Heart” Foundation.
Jackson County students head back to school
JACKSON COUNTY, Miss. (WLOX) — Students across the Jackson County School District returned to class Friday, filling hallways at schools including St. Martin Middle School and St. Martin Upper Elementary. St. Martin Middle School Principal Wendell Ellis said he looks forward to the start of each school year. “We’re glad to have everybody back. In the summertime, principals work. With me, I kind of get bored and miss them being here,” Ellis said.
Biloxi apartment complex battles recurring flooding ahead of Tropical Storm Bertha
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — Residents and staff at Bellemont Gardens Apartments are preparing for Tropical Storm Bertha — even as they contend with a flooding problem that predates any named storm. Solomon Robert, the complex’s lead maintenance man, said flooding occurs with routine rainfall — not just tropical weather. He said roughly 18 apartments took on water during Tropical Storm Arthur last month. “When it rains, it floods. Not just tropical storms. When it rains, it floods,” Robert said.
George County inmates inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
GEORGE COUNTY, Miss. (WLOX) — Eight George County inmates are now members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK), joining a Beta Tau Eta chapter that operates through Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s training center inside the George County Regional Correctional Facility. Royce Myers, who has spent 12 years incarcerated, earned his GED two years ago before qualifying for the induction into the honor society. “Everyone has a past and skeletons in the closet,” Myers said.
George County inmates inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
GEORGE COUNTY, Miss. (WLOX) — Eight George County inmates are now members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK), joining a Beta Tau Eta chapter that operates through Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s training center inside the George County Regional Correctional Facility. Royce Myers, who has spent 12 years incarcerated, earned his GED two years ago before qualifying for the induction into the honor society. “Everyone has a past and skeletons in the closet,” Myers said.
Mississippi equipment operators compete for regional spot at MDOT Roadeo
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — The Mississippi Department of Transportation held its annual state equipment operators Roadeo in Gulfport, where competitors were judged on a combination of speed and task completion. Each competitor had already won their district Roadeo before advancing to the state event. The top two finishers in each discipline will represent Mississippi at the Southwest Regional Roadeo in Virginia.
D’Iberville Middle School student wins national math title at Beta Club Convention Original
D’IBERVILLE, Miss. (WLOX) — A D‘Iberville Middle School student is being recognized nationally after placing first in the math division at the National Beta Club Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, this summer. Sixth-grader Logan Le competed against students from 18 states at the convention. Ashe advances to seventh grade, Le takes the national title with him. Sixth-grader Logan Le competed against students from 18 states at the convention.
Stone County residents rebuild two weeks after storms, await relief decision
WIGGINS, Miss. (WLOX) — Stone County residents are still cleaning up two weeks after tornadoes and floodwaters downed trees across the county, while local emergency officials wait to learn whether state or federal relief is coming. Stone County residents are still cleaning up two weeks after tornadoes and floodwaters downed trees across the county, while local emergency officials wait to learn whether state or federal relief is coming.
Stone County residents rebuild two weeks after storms, await relief decision
WIGGINS, Miss. (WLOX) — Stone County residents are still cleaning up two weeks after tornadoes and floodwaters downed trees across the county, while local emergency officials wait to learn whether state or federal relief is coming. Stone County residents are still cleaning up two weeks after tornadoes and floodwaters downed trees across the county, while local emergency officials wait to learn whether state or federal relief is coming.
Second Liners Mardi Gras Club donates to Back Bay Mission
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — The Second Liners Mardi Gras Club donated $1,200 to Back Bay Mission on Tuesday, with the funds going toward assistance for local families in need. The donation is one of several the club has made to Back Bay Mission over the years. Back Bay Mission Executive Director James Pennington said the group has a consistent focus on community giving.
Mississippi leaders gather in Biloxi for annual municipalities conference
BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — Municipal leaders from across Mississippi are meeting in Biloxi this week for the Mississippi Municipalities League annual conference, now in its 95th year. The conference brings together city leaders to network, share experiences and discuss strategies for improving their communities and the state overall. AI and technology on the agenda Artificial intelligence is among the topics being discussed this year.
Gulfport School District crews prepare campuses for new school year
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — While students are on summer vacation, crews in the Gulfport School District are working to prepare schools for the new year. At Central Middle School, six custodians are responsible for cleaning the entire campus. Gulfport School District Chief Operations Officer Jack Wittmann said summer is the only time crews can tackle the biggest maintenance jobs. “Our custodial crews at each school empty all the classrooms out,” Wittmann said.
Dale Brown brings basketball camp back home to Gulf Coast kids
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) — Former NBA player Dale Brown is hosting his annual basketball camp in Jackson County this week, giving children ages 6 to 17 the chance to learn from players with college and professional experience. Brown played at Pascagoula High School before going on to play for the Kentucky Wildcats and the Sacramento Kings. He has run the camp for nearly 20 years.
Gulfport church helps flood victims with drive-thru grocery giveaway
GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) — O’Neal Road Church of Christ in Gulfport is giving away groceries to people impacted by last week’s flooding. The remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur brought severe flooding and damage to several South Mississippi communities. Volunteers began handing out bags of groceries on Thursday morning in a drive-thru setup, loading food directly into vehicles as families pulled up. Disaster Assistance from Ohio was also on-site to help gather and distribute the food.
Two new food options open in Saucier
SAUCIER, Miss. (WLOX) — Saucier residents have two new places to grab food after a convenience store and food truck opened Tuesday morning. The former Windmill building on Central Avenue reopened as Saucier Foodmart. The Windmill was a convenience store that opened in the 1960s. Jo Williams, a Saucier resident who used to work at the Windmill, was one of the Foodmart’s first guests. “We had a lot of nice customers that would come in.
Rescues continue in Harrison County as ongoing flooding impacts residents Original
SAUCIER, Miss. (WLOX) — First responders across Harrison County have been working around the clock rescuing people and helping families reach safety from floodwaters. Officials say they have done at least 100 rescues and calls for assistance are still coming in, with multiple agencies coordinating rescue efforts throughout the county. Many stranded residents have been relocated to higher ground after rising water cut off access to homes and roadways.
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