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Mobile sports betting in MS still has many hurdles. See what passed the House

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Mobile sports betting in MS still has many hurdles. See what passed the House



House Gaming chairman throws cold water on Jackson Casino bills filed this year

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Mississippians are one step closer to having statewide online mobile sports betting, but hurdles in the Mississippi Legislature still need to be cleared before the idea is totally greenlit.

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The Mississippi House of Representatives on Monday passed legislation to establish statewide online mobile sports betting with overwhelming support from chamber members.

The bill was met with some resistance from House Minority Leader Robert Johnson, D-Natchez, who also opposed the legislation in 2024. However, the bill passed with 88 votes in favor and only 10 votes in opposition.

House Gaming Committee Chair Casey Eure, R-Saucier, said the bill will likely head to conference, meaning it will not likely be accepted as is by the Mississippi Senate and will be debated and negotiated for before passing.

The Senate Gaming Committee, which will consider the bill next, is chaired by Sen. David Blount, D-Jackson, who also opposed the House’s mobile sports betting bill in 2024. Blount did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Eure also said the bill would add millions in yearly revenue to the state via a 12% tax on all mobile sports bets. The money would go to all 82 counties to fund roads and bridges projects.

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Johnson, who represents an area with a casino, questioned why tax revenue generated from the legislation would go to all 82 counties when only a few in the state have casinos, such as those along the Mississippi River and Gulf Coast.

“That’s the region that this gambling resource is coming out of,” Johnson said. “This (should not) protect all 82 counties. This (should) protect counties who have suffered through the risk of establishing a casino and have had them there for years. Not the counties that said ‘no’, but to the county that said, ‘Yes.’”

Last year, Eure estimated a mobile sports betting program could be bring in about $25 million in tax revenue.

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As for prospective players, the bill would:

  • Allow any person within the state to place an online mobile sports bet. Currently, you would need to be on casino grounds to bet online.
  • Allow casinos to partner with two online betting platforms to begin online sports betting business.
  • Players would not be allowed to use credit cards, but they could use debit cards and online payment options such as Cashapp or Venmo.
  • Platforms would be required to age verify players. In Mississippi, players must be 21 years old.

Other states throughout the Southeast have been earning oodles of money in tax revenue from mobile sports betting. For example, Eure said, Tennessee, Louisiana, Kentucky and North Carolina have made tens of millions in sports betting tax revenues since implementing their own programs.

“That just goes to show you that we’re losing a lot of tax revenue to these online sports betting,” Eure said.

Eure said on the House floor the bill added several provisions in addition to what it had last year in order to please some members in the Senate and the gaming community at large.

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Last year, the bill died in conference due to concerns that the online betting programs would drive foot traffic away from brick-and-mortar casinos and possibly cost jobs.

Cold water thrown on Jackson casino project bills

Before the vote on mobile sports betting, Rep. William Brown, D-Jackson, asked if Eure had any intentions of supporting legislation to establish a Jackson casino project, which died in the House Ways and Means Committee last year.

Several bills to establish a Jackson casino have been filed into the Legislature this year but as of Monday afternoon none have passed through a committee. Lawmakers have until Tuesday evening to pass such a bill onto either the House or Senate floor.

Eure acknowledged the bill from 2024, but on Monday he said he had heard no such support for a project, and essentially dismissed the idea.

“I’ve had no one contact me, and I’ve had no conversations about a Jackson Casino,” Eure said.

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Grant McLaughlin covers the Legislature and state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.



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Mississippi

Everything a frustrated Chris Beard said after a listless Ole Miss loss to Mississippi State

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Everything a frustrated Chris Beard said after a listless Ole Miss loss to Mississippi State


ESPN predicted before Saturday’s slate of college basketball games 14 of the SEC’s 16 teams would make the NCAA Tournament. No. 19 Ole Miss was included as a 5-seed.

Actually, the Rebels’ resume was/is so strong a win or loss against rival Mississippi State wasn’t go to move the needle much, if at all, either way. But a listless, 81-71 effort? If nothing else, it shook up something in second-year head coach Chris Beard. 

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A clearly-frustrated Beard tore into his team in his postgame press conference. Ole Miss fell to 19-7 overall and 8-5 in the SEC. Mississippi State improved to 18-7 (6-6). The teams were meeting for the second time ever with both ranked in the Top 25. Mississippi State has now swept both of those matchups, each coming this season.

Ole Miss is off this week before traveling to Vanderbilt (17-8, 5-7) Saturday, February 22. Tipoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT on SEC Network.

Here’s everything Beard had to say afterwards.

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ON TEAM REBOUNDING

Beard: We got pounded on the glass. We had zero offensive rebounds in the first half. At times during the game we were non-competitive on the glass.

ON OLE MISS GETTING BULLIED

Beard: I wish I could tell you I was surprised, but I wasn’t. I think these last two games, the four halves we played on the road, fortunate to win those games. But I would agree with the players if they said they weren’t the most aggressive team tonight. 

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I give Mississippi State credit. Got a good coach, good players. I thought (Shawn Jones, Jr.) was the difference in the game. You look at his plus-minus (+22), winning basketball. You look at the stat sheet on us, we had one guy that had a positive plus-minus today. We got some good minutes from Mikeal (Brown-Jones) off the bench. 

College basketball is a players’ game. You’ve got to have guys show up to play. Ultimately where the coach fits in is it’s his responsibility to get the guys ready to play. Want to apologize to all the fans that drove into Oxford today to watch this rivalry. We did our best to explain to the guys how important this game was. We obviously didn’t get it done.

ON TEAM COMPLACENCY 

Beard: If complacency is a part of this then we’ve got some guys that need to do some real soul-searching. Complacent for what? What have we done that allows us to be complacent?

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ON STATE’S SUPERIOR SENSE OF URGENCY

Beard: I think it’s a fair statement. It’s hard for me as the coach to say that, but that’s exactly what I told the guys after the gamy. Victory is going to favor the team that’s more aggressive. In this time of year, in the SEC, you’re supposed to see two aggressive teams going at it. The victory will favor the team with the fewest mistakes once guys show up to fight. 

For a lot of the game, we weren’t a part of the aggressiveness fight. That’s what rebounding is. That’s finishing around the basket, demanding that the refs call the fouls.

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“We had a lot of softness to us today. That’s not easy for me to say as the coach. That’s one thing we pride ourselves on.”  

We’re not going to win every game, but we do have an objective that we’re not going to put an effort out there like I thought we put out there today. Not taking anything away from Mississippi State; their backs are against the wall. They’re chasing wins here down the stretch in mid-February. They have great role definition on their team. (Jones, Jr.) is just a winner. I don’t care what the stat line says; just look at the final number. I felt (his plus-minus) when I was out there. It’s a winning player. 

Who brought their ‘A’ game for us today? I’m not sitting here throwing the players under the bus. We coached the team — our staff. We’re all in this together. Team obviously wasn’t well-coached today. The players didn’t perform at the level it’s going to take to beat a team that’s very hungry right now. 

ON THE BYE WEEK

Beard: You look forward to the break after a win. You dread the break after a loss. 

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ON GOING DEEP INTO THE BENCH

Beard: Some of the substitutions tonight were to literally get people out there that were playing with a sense of pride for Ole Miss. Understood a lot of people paid real money to come to this game today. We’re not going to make every shot, you’re not going to win every game, but you can absolutely control what you can control, and that’s effort, body language, competitiveness. We were lacking a lot of those things. 

Thought John Bol gave us great minutes. (Eduardo) Klafke is always an energy guy. Rob (Caldwell’s) been battling injuries, really, his whole career. This year, no different. It was great to see Rob out there contributing today. He could be a big part of what we’re trying to do down the stretch.



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The 13 Best Things To Do In Laurel, Mississippi

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The 13 Best Things To Do In Laurel, Mississippi


It’s been almost 10 years since Erin and Ben Napier introduced the world to their beloved hometown of Laurel, Mississippi via hit HGTV reality renovation show Home Town. Since premiering in 2016, there have been eight seasons (plus a three-season spin-off called Home Town Takeover), and now the formerly unknown south-central Mississippi town is practically a household name. Home Town follows the Napiers as they revitalize the city of Laurel by revamping downtown businesses and renovating falling-apart historic homes for a new generation of residents to enjoy. The Napiers’ leadership and earnest championing has helped Laurel make a comeback that many—longtime locals included—never expected.

Erin And Ben Napier Share Their Dream Home In The Mississippi Countryside

Today, Laurel draws visitors from all over the country (and beyond) who, like the Napiers, have fallen in love with the Laurel’s charm, Southern hospitality, and special blend of charisma. Downtown is a hotbed for shopping, from antiques to home goods, and the city’s restaurant scene has blossomed too.  Whether you’re fan of the show hoping to see filming locations in real life, or if you’re just looking for a pleasant place for a small-town getaway, Laurel is an excellent long-weekend destination. Here are th 13 best things to do in Laurel, Mississippi.   

What To Do In Laurel, Mississippi

Visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

COURTESY Lauren Rogers Museum Of Art / WALTER R. AVERETT The museum hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, and several are planned in 2023 to mark its centennial.

COURTESY Lauren Rogers Museum Of Art / WALTER R. AVERETT

The museum hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, and several are planned in 2023 to mark its centennial.

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You might be surprised to learn that the state’s first art museum resides in Laurel. The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art opened in 1923 and has been committed to sharing art from all over the world ever since. The museum features European, Japanese, American, and Native American art, plus Georgian silver, in five permanent galleries, but also features several temporary exhibits. Housed in a striking and stately Georgia Revival building surrounded by live oaks, the museum is free and open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays.

lrma.org; 565 North 5th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39441; 601-649-6374

Shop With The Napiers

Cedric Angeles

Like their HGTV predecessors Chip and Joanna Gaines and their Magnolia Home empire in Waco, the Napiers have populated downtown Laurel with businesses that bring their hit TV show to life.  The roster of shops starts with their flagship Laurel Mercantile, where you can find all American-made products ranging from home decor to T-shirts to gourmet foods. Their next venture Scotsman General Store functions as both Ben’s furniture woodshop and a nostalgic, old-school general store. After you shop, grab a bite to eat from the Scotsman Food Truck Park, in a greenspace right next door, or enjoy a sweet treat from the in-store Snowball Stand. Visit Erin’s Scent Library, to find an impressive collection of candles and bathroom products (from hand soap to bath salts) in fragrance collections inspired by specific memories.

scotsmanusa.com/pages/family-of-brands

Hunt For Local Art

Fans of Home Town are likely familiar with the whimsical works of artist Adam Trest, who has been featured on the show throughout its many seasons. His studio is located right next door the Scent Library, so if he happens to be in, you may be lucky enough to see the artist at work. If not, head just around the corner to the Caron Gallery, where his paintings and the works of around 50 other Mississippi artists are all on display and ready for you to add to your home collection.

thecarongallery.com 317 North Magnolia St., Laurel, MS 39441; 601-342-5129

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Go Antique Shopping

Part of what makes Erin’s home design so wonderful is the effortless mix of old and new. If you want to achieve a similar look for your home, antique shopping in Laurel is a must. Part antique store, part boutique, you could spend hours in Peddlers Junktion and still not see it all. The superstore houses more than 45 unique vendor booths who specialize in everything from curated vintage home decor to contemporary gifts. A similar setup exists at Southern Antiques, which includes 10,000 square feet of diversified retail space focusing on home, gifts, and bridal items.

Get Creative At HAND+made

Creativity blossoms in Laurel and you can find full proof of that at local shop and studio HAND+made. The downtown gift shop and arts and crafts store sells locally made gifts items, from tea towels to jewelry, but also includes visitors to exercise their right brains by attending events meant to spark creativity. They host regular DIY and paint classes in their cheery downtown store.

facebook.com; 313 W Oak Street, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-342-8232

See The Historic Homes

Cedric Angeles

Cedric Angeles

If the primary purpose of your visit is a Home Town pilgrimage (or even if it isn’t), a tour of Laurel’s historic homes is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or morning. Laurel Home Tours offers ride-along tours on their open-air carts through town that take visitors by more than 40 homes featured and renovated on the show. Along the way, your guide will relay history about Laurel and point out some of the town’s most famous landmarks.

laurelhometours.com

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Buy Edible Souvenirs At The Knight Butcher

Cedric Angeles

Cedric Angeles

A butcher shop may seem an unlikely place to find souvenirs, but this business offers some of the best edible take-homes you’ll find anywhere. Stop in to pick up some of their homemade beef jerky (there’s one made with ribeye and another made with bacon) and fresh fudge in dozens of flavors ranging from pumpkin spice to espresso bean to strawberry cheesecake to banana pudding.

theknightbutcher.com; 520 Central Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-651-2054

Where To Eat In Laurel, Mississippi

Enjoy Breakfast At Lee’s Coffee & Tea

The soaring two-story dining room at Lee’s Coffee & Tea has been a favorite gathering spot for locals since 2009. Folks frequently stop in for a cup of coffee or tea with a pastry and to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and convivial workspace. Lee’s also serves a full breakfast and lunch menu of homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches, so it’s just as convenient a place to meet over a meal.

leescoffeeandtea.com; 409 W Oak St, Ste 102, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-649-4161

Have Lunch On The Porch At Bird Dog Café

Housed in a cheery Craftsman-style home downtown, Bird Dog Café reopened under new ownership in the spring of 2024 after a short time away. Serving lunch six days a week (closed on Sundays), you’ll find a satisfying menu of simple but delicious Southern eats like chicken salad, deviled eggs, and a fabulous French dip.

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facebook.com/birddogoflaurel; 412 Short 7th Ave, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-651-2405

Have Homecooked Southern Food At Pearl’s Diner

After 34 years away, Pearl Campbell returned to her hometown and opened Pearl’s Diner in a former jewelry store in 2017. Known affectionately to friends and strangers alike as Ms. Pearl, folks come to converse with the beloved restaurant owner and sample her incredible Southern comfort cuisine. Open for lunch Tuesdays through Saturdays, Pearl’s Diner operates a bit like a meat ‘n’ three. A few mainstays like fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and mac and cheese are always available, but other meats and sides (fried catfish, lima beans, and the like) rotate daily.

mspearlsdiner.com; 330 North Magnolia Street, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-682-0945

Treat Yourself To Dinner At The Loft

A classic steakhouse experience awaits at The Loft, located in the heart of downtown Laurel on Central Avenue. Cozy up to a table under exposed wooden beams in the indoor dining room, or opt for a table on the two-story patio or in the charming courtyard when the weather is fair. No matter where you sit, ordering couldn’t be simpler. All you have to do is select your size and cut. It’s guaranteed to be perfectly cooked and served with a side salad and your choice of a baked potato, potato casserole, or fries. For the red-meat averse, there’s also a healthy selection of chicken, pork, pasta, seafood options too.

facebook.com/theloftoncentral; 535 Central Ave, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-518-0404

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Where To Stay In Laurel, Mississippi

Book A Suite At Wisteria Bed And Breakfast

Laurel isn’t exactly a hotel kind of town. You’ll find hospitality to match the community’s welcoming feel at Wisteria Bed and Breakfast, a stately home in the heart of the historic district that offers three guest suites and lovely communal veranda and courtyard spaces that are perfect for whiling away a warm spring or summer afternoon.

wisteriabedandbreakfast.com; 706 North 5th Avenue, Laurel, MS 39440; 601-426-3805

Spend The Night In A Cozy Airbnb

Cedric Angeles

Cedric Angeles

Most folks report feeling right at home from the minute they first step foot in Laurel. At least that was the case for Bonnie McConkey, who moved to town after living in Denver for many years and deciding that she needed a change. She now perpetuates the warmth she first felt in Laurel by sharing her home with visitors via two Airbnb rentals called Bonnie’s Laurel Cottage. She’ll even give you a personal tour of town if you ask. If you’d rather have your own space, Mallorie’s Cottage, offers two separate rentals, one on each floor of the historic carriage house.

Read the original article on Southern Living



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Use Our Interactive Mississippi Justice Bill Tracker to Stay Informed

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Use Our Interactive Mississippi Justice Bill Tracker to Stay Informed


During the current Mississippi legislative session, which runs from Jan. 7 through April 6, lawmakers will consider a raft of bills that could become law and impact prisons and jails, courts, policing and statewide criminal justice that everyone in the state must follow.

Below are the bills involving the justice system that were introduced this year and still remain alive for consideration. We’ll update the guide as bills move through the 2025 session.

Here is more information to help you better understand the process:

What are some of the key bills?

Lawmakers are considering significant proposals, including new circuit and chancery court district maps and an overhaul of the youth court system.

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Lawmakers also have another job: Tell the state how to spend tax dollars on state agencies, such as the Mississippi Department of Corrections. MDOC has requested millions more dollars this year compared to last year. One request asks for $14 million for new computer software to help the agency track the nearly 20,000 people in custody.

How does a law get passed in Mississippi?

The Legislature has two chambers, the state House and the state Senate. Legislation must work its way through each chamber. The Legislature provides a diagram with more information about this process.

If a bill passes both chambers, the governor can veto the bill, sign it or take no action. If the governor takes no action, the bill becomes law without the governor’s signature. The Legislature can override a veto with a two-thirds vote.

Mississippi Today has also published information about how the legislature works and how bills move through the process.

Can I watch lawmakers debate bills?

Yes. You can watch current and archived legislative floor debates and some committee hearings on YouTube.

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How can I find out who my legislators are?

The Mississippi Secretary of State offers an online tool to find your polling place and elected officials, including the legislators who represent you in the state House and Senate.

The Legislature publishes contact information for House representatives and senators.



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