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Southaven to honor Mike Mullins in Tribute Hall and Greenbrook Field renaming | News

Southaven will honor long-time parks and recreation director Mike Mullins with a plaque in Tribute Hall and will also rename Greenbrook Park in recognition of his pioneering service as a volunteer youth sports coach. Mayor Darren Musselwhite announced on Friday that Mullins, who passed away in June 2024, will take his place of honor on […]

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Southaven will honor long-time parks and recreation director Mike Mullins with a plaque in Tribute Hall and will also rename Greenbrook Park in recognition of his pioneering service as a volunteer youth sports coach.

Mayor Darren Musselwhite announced on Friday that Mullins, who passed away in June 2024, will take his place of honor on the wall at City Hall which honors special people who have made significant contributions to the city.

“Although our city has been blessed to have so many volunteer coaches and parents whose selfless and tireless efforts have made Southaven special all the way back to our early days, no one played as significant a role in all of it more than Mike Mullins,” Musselwhite wrote on Facebook. 

Musselwhite said Mullins revolutionized the parks and recreation program in Southaven and made it into one of the best in the U.S. Southaven became nationally known for its sports facilities and became a destination for baseball and softball tournaments under his leadership of the parks department from 1999-2014.







Greenbrook Field

Southaven will rename Greenbrook Softball Complex in honor of long-time youth sports coach and parks and recreation director Mike Mullins.


“He helped design and supervised construction of Snowden Grove Park, the Bank Plus Amphitheater, and enhancements throughout the city,” Musselwhite noted. “He was instrumental in making the city the host site of the Dizzy Dean World Series and numerous competitive tournaments for many years which had a significant impact on tourism and economic development in the city.  Many other events enjoyed by citizens and visitors still today were started or influenced by him.”

Mullins began his service to the people of Southaven coaching youth football and baseball for three decades starting in the 1970s. He coached his first baseball team when he was just 16 years-old and notably coached the Steelers at Cherry Valley for 21 years and Team Pepsi for many years also. Before the city even had an official parks program, Mullins volunteered countless hours preparing and maintaining the fields at Greenbrook and Cherry Valley Parks and was often referred to by “Moon.”

“Many citizens will tell you they witnessed him riding a tractor at midnight or sponging a rain-soaked field so the kids could play the next day,” Musselwhite said. “He was known to spend his money for kids whose parents couldn’t afford equipment so the kids could play. “

Musselwhite said Mullins was an even better mentor who taught his players qualities that would help them become successful in their life outside of sports.

“His positive impact on our youth is immeasurable and although he is missed by many, he will never be forgotten,” Musselwhite said.

Residents who commented on Facebook called it a well deserved honor and recalled his dedication to youth sports.

“Everyone certainly knew who he was,” wrote Debbie Smith Sorn. “He was do dedicated.”

“He made a difference in so many lives,” Joan Harmon added.

“Good man and about time Southaven honored him,” wrote Michael McDaniel.

Roger Burns said he had many great talks with Mullins after games at Cherry Valley.

“He always had great advice and I will always be appreciative of it,” Burn commented. 

 



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NEO and Sparks Orthopedics announce merger

  Sparks Orthopedics and Northeast Orthopedics recently announced their official merger, effective August 18, 2025, forming one of the region’s most comprehensive and community-connected orthopedic practices. The new unified organization, operating under the name Northeast Orthopedics, will combine decades of orthopedic excellence, increase access to patient resources, deepen partnerships with local schools and sports teams, […]

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Sparks Orthopedics and Northeast Orthopedics recently announced their official merger, effective August 18, 2025, forming one of the region’s most comprehensive and community-connected orthopedic practices.

The new unified organization, operating under the name Northeast Orthopedics, will combine decades of orthopedic excellence, increase access to patient resources, deepen partnerships with local schools and sports teams, and deliver a more seamless experience for patients across the region.

The merger comes after more than two years of strategic planning, clinical collaboration and feedback from patients, staff and the community.

The decision reflects the shared values and vision of both practices, which have long prioritized expert care, innovation, and community engagement.

A Shared Mission for Advanced Care

By joining forces, Sparks Orthopedics and Northeast Orthopedics will now offer expanded services across a wider geographic footprint. Patients will benefit from:

• Enhanced access to specialists and services in sports medicine, joint replacement, spine care, and more.

• Consolidated scheduling and records systems, allowing for smoother transitions between providers and more coordinated care.

• Shared physical therapy and rehabilitation programs, bringing evidence-based recovery strategies closer to home.

• Increased resources and staffing, improving wait times and appointment availability across all locations.

“This merger isn’t just about growing in size—it’s about growing in service,” said Dr. Butch Douthit, Senior Physician of the newly formed Northeast Orthopedics. “We are unifying our strengths to elevate the standard of orthopedic care in the region. Patients can expect more personalized options, better follow-through, and the same commitment to compassionate, expert care they’ve always known.”

Stronger Ties to Local Schools and Student Athletes

One of the key advantages of the merger is an expanded ability to work directly with local school districts, athletic programs, and community sports leagues. Both Sparks and Northeast Orthopedics have a long history of supporting youth sports through injury prevention, in school physicals, and sideline medical support. The merger will allow this work to scale.

“With more physicians, athletic trainers, and clinical staff available, we can strengthen our presence in local schools and better support student-athletes year-round,” said Cory Fuller, PT, DPT, Director of Physical Therapy Services. “From pre-season evaluations to on-site injury response and post-injury rehabilitation, we’ll now be able to serve more athletes in more schools, faster and more efficiently.”

Already, the combined group has signed partnership agreements with several local school districts, covering over 10,000 students and student-athletes.

One Brand, One Experience

Patients of both legacy organizations will soon begin to see a unified brand presence, including a new website, updated signage, and a centralized patient portal that simplifies scheduling, billing, and communication. The Northeast Orthopedics brand will be rolled out gradually over the next several months, with the full transition expected by December 2025.

“Our goal is to eliminate confusion and give patients one consistent experience—whether they’re seeing a doctor in our Gadsden office, getting physical therapy in Rainbow City, or checking their medical record from their phone,” said Rick Janss, Administrator. “This merger allows us to streamline systems, improve service, and ensure that every interaction reflects the quality and trust we’re known for.”

What Patients Need to Know

• No immediate changes are required from current patients. All appointments, insurance plans, and provider relationships will continue uninterrupted during the transition.

• Phone numbers, patient portals, and locations will remain the same for now, with updates communicated well in advance.

• A new, centralized website will launch in August at www.northeastorthopedics.com , with full integration of patient tools by fall.

Patients will receive communications about the transition, and our phone desk will be available to answer any questions.

Looking Ahead

The merger is not only a reflection of the organizations’ shared history but also their commitment to future innovation. Northeast Orthopedics plans to invest in expanded healthcare options, additional outpatient surgery capabilities, and new methods to advance orthopedic care in the region.

“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Daniel Sparks, Orthopedic Surgeon at the new Northeast Orthopedics. “Together, we’re building something stronger—something that will serve our communities for generations to come. We’re proud of where we’ve been, and we’re even more excited about where we’re going.”

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the newly combined practice stands ready to lead with compassion, expertise, and community-first thinking. Patients, families, and partners can expect the same trusted care—only better, broader, and more connected than ever.

About Sparks Orthopedics

Founded in 2001, Sparks Orthopedics has served thousands of patients with expert care in joint replacement, sports medicine, and trauma recovery. Known for its commitment to clinical excellence and personalized treatment, Sparks has grown into one of the area’s most trusted orthopedic providers.

About Northeast Orthopedics

Since 1986, Northeast Orthopedics has provided comprehensive orthopedic care to patients across northeastern Alabama. A regional company with six locations, Northeast Orthopedics has a focus on innovation and community involvement, the group has earned a reputation for quality care and responsive service.

Submitted by NEO.



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The Y – Make This Summer Active, Fun, and Full of Learning at the Y

Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year — a season full of sunshine, adventure, and the perfect opportunity for kids to stay active, make new friends, and try something new. At the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, we’re here to help families make the most of it with engaging programs designed to […]

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Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year — a season full of sunshine, adventure, and the perfect opportunity for kids to stay active, make new friends, and try something new. At the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, we’re here to help families make the most of it with engaging programs designed to keep kids moving, learning, and having fun all summer long.

Whether your child is a beginner swimmer or looking to build on their water safety skills, Summer Swim Lessons at the Fry Family YMCA offer a safe, supportive environment to grow confidence in the water. Our certified instructors focus on swimming fundamentals while making learning fun and rewarding.

For older kids interested in building leadership skills and learning lifesaving techniques, our Junior Lifeguard Camp is the perfect fit. It’s a great way to introduce youth to the responsibilities of lifeguarding while keeping them active and engaged.

And let’s not forget the action-packed excitement of Youth Sports Camps! These camps are all about teamwork, skill development, and staying active through basketball, soccer, and more — all in a supportive, positive setting.

No matter your child’s interests, the Y has something to keep them moving, exploring, and thriving all summer long. Let’s make this the best summer yet — full of fun, growth, and unforgettable memories!

The Fry Family Y has a wide variety of offerings available that will keep you and your family happy and healthy all while having fun. Learn more and register at fryfamilyymca.org, call us at 630-904-9595, or stop by our front desk!



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City of Birmingham launches youth sports league

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin announced Friday, June 13 the formation of the Birmingham Youth Sports League, a new initiative aimed at enriching the lives of of young people through athletic training, mentorship, and academic support. “This is a chance for Birmingham to support and enhance the youth sports experience across our […]

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin announced Friday, June 13 the formation of the Birmingham Youth Sports League, a new initiative aimed at enriching the lives of of young people through athletic training, mentorship, and academic support.

“This is a chance for Birmingham to support and enhance the youth sports experience across our city,” said Mayor Woodfin. “We’re not just building athletes, we’re building character, community, and opportunity.”

The league will launch this summer with football and cheerleading, and will expand to eventually include basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer in future phases.

The mission is rooted in the CEETA standard: character, excellence, equity, teamwork, and accountability. In addition to athletic training, the league will focus on providing life skills, conflict resolution strategies, and academic mentorship to participating youth, according to a news release.

The league will be led by a governing team that includes an advisory team, commissioner, assistant commissioner, and operations directors for each sport, with coordination from the Mayor’s Office, Birmingham Park and Recreation, and the Department of Youth Services.

For more information and how to register click here.

Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.



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Derrick White heading to Singapore to coach in Basketball Without Borders camp

Derrick White is going international this offseason. The Boston Celtics star is heading to Singapore to try his hand in coaching.  White will be one of the coaches during a four-day camp for the 15th edition of Baseball Without Borders (BWB) Asia, which will be held at the Singapore Basketball Centre next weekend. Sixty of […]

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Derrick White is going international this offseason. The Boston Celtics star is heading to Singapore to try his hand in coaching. 

White will be one of the coaches during a four-day camp for the 15th edition of Baseball Without Borders (BWB) Asia, which will be held at the Singapore Basketball Centre next weekend. Sixty of the top youth basketball players in Asia will take part in the camp, and White is one of the three current NBA players who will participate. 

In addition to White, Tyrese Maxey of the Philadelphia 76ers and Doup Reath of the Portland Trail Blazers will coach in the camp. A handful of NBA assistant coaches — including former Boston College star Jared Dudley, who is now on the Dallas Mavericks staff — and WNBA legend Ticha Penicherio are also heading overseas to coach.

This marks the second straight summer White is going international. After he helped lead the Celtics to an NBA Championship in 2024, White played a hand in the 2024 U.S. Men’s Olympic team winning gold in Paris. At least this time around, he won’t be hitting the floor too much and can rest up for the upcoming season.

During the BWB camp, White and the other coaches will lead campers through a number of activities, including movement efficiency drills, offensive and defensive skill stations, three-point contests, and 5-on-5 games. There will also be sessions that include lessons on life-skills and leadership development. 

The camp will conclude on Sunday, June 22 with a ceremony to hand out awards for the camp’s MVP, the Three-Point Champion, the Defensive MVP, and a Sportsmanship Award.

Basketball Without Borders

Basketball Without Borders was organized by the NBA in conjunction with FIBA and has hosted camps since 2001 in 53 cities across 33 counties. There have been over 4,600 participants in Basketball Without Borders camps over the years, and 132 of them have moved on to the NBA or WNBA. That list includes Josh Giddey of the Chicago Bulls and Josh Green of the Charlotte Hornets (both from Australia) and Rui Hachimura of the Los Angeles Lakers (Japan).



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$650K Awarded To NJ Umpire ‘Viciously’ Assaulted By Coach At Kids Baseball Game In Branchburg

“Our focus has to be the kids. We need to ensure that youth sports remain a place for them to learn and grow in a safe environment. I hope this verdict will prevent any future events from occurring,” said Umpire James Neely of Middlesex. On Wednesday, Neely was awarded a $650,000 verdict following a two-day […]

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“Our focus has to be the kids. We need to ensure that youth sports remain a place for them to learn and grow in a safe environment. I hope this verdict will prevent any future events from occurring,” said Umpire James Neely of Middlesex.

On Wednesday, Neely was awarded a $650,000 verdict following a two-day trial in Middlesex County against former Little League assistant coach Jerry Otero.

The verdict comprised of an award of $500,000 in compensatory damages and $150,000 in punitive damages, and is believed to be the largest such verdict in New Jersey history, according to Neely’s attorney, Andrew L. O’Connor, of Nagel Rice in Roseland.

“People’s behavior at youth travel sports has become completely out of control. This verdict sends a strong message that this type of outrageous conduct will not be allowed at youth sporting events,” said O’Connor.

The lawsuit stemmed from an assault on June 4, 2022 when Neely was umpiring a 13U Little League baseball travel tournament in Branchburg.

During the game, Otero believed that a balk call was missed and proceeded to spend several innings harassing, cursing, and using “extensive profanity” in front of the 13-year-old players at umpire Neely, according to the lawsuit.

As a result of Otero’s conduct, Neely ejected Otero from the Little League game. Otero then approached Neely, and “without warning or justification,” hit Neely in the face in front of the players of two Little League baseball teams, and their parents and spectators, according to the suit.

Neely suffered a concussion and multiple fractures to his jaw, which required that his jaw be wired shut.



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BHUSD Board of Education Approves New Athletic Director

At its June 10 meeting, the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Board of Education voted (5-0) to approve the appointment of Steve Lawson as the new Director of Athletics and JPA, along with Devon Saxon as Assistant Director of Athletics and JPA.  “These are the right people at the right time,” said Board of […]

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At its June 10 meeting, the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Board of Education voted (5-0) to approve the appointment of Steve Lawson as the new Director of Athletics and JPA, along with Devon Saxon as Assistant Director of Athletics and JPA. 

“These are the right people at the right time,” said Board of Education President Rachelle Marcus. “Steve and Devon bring the experience, vision, and dedication needed to take our athletics program to the next level.”

As part of their roles, Lawson and Saxon will support oversight of the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) between BHUSD and the city of Beverly Hills. The JPA governs the shared use, maintenance, and scheduling of city and district facilities, a critical partnership that enhances access, safety, and programming for students and the broader community. Having athletic leaders in these positions ensures strong alignment between school needs and city resources.

An Army veteran, Lawson brings decades of high-level experience in coaching, program development, and athletic administration. He is a U.S. Open Champion, Pan American Games Bronze Medalist, and Olympic Festival Silver Medalist, and has served as Head Wrestling Coach at El Dorado High School for more than 27 years. During his tenure, he led teams to multiple league and CIF titles and coached 18 individual CIF champions, including a California State Champion.

Lawson is also the founder and director of SCWAY (State of California Wrestling Alliance for Youth), one of the state’s most impactful youth athletics organizations. SCWAY currently serves over 2,800 athletes and 75 clubs, and under Lawson’s leadership, has become a model for youth development, athletic safety, and coach training. Known for his disciplined yet student-centered approach, Lawson combines military precision with a deep belief in the character-building power of sports.

Saxon is a decorated cheer coach and educator who will work alongside Lawson. Saxon has led Birmingham Community Charter High School’s cheer program to six CIF-LA City Division I titles, two CIF State Runner-Up finishes, and consistent national recognition. Named the 2024 California Coaches Association Cheerleading Coach of the Year, Saxon is also a CIF-LA Cheerleading Co-Coordinator, overseeing logistics and competition planning for more than 80 school teams.

The Courier’s June 20 issue will include detailed reporting on the additional issues discussed/voted on during the June 10 meeting, including security costs related to construction, and a ban on administrator attendance at parent-teacher conferences.   



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