Oxford Eagle’s Year in Review, part 4: October to December
As we find ourselves with just one more week in 2018, it’s important to take time to look back at most impactful stories of the year.
Here is the fourth and final part of The EAGLE’s Year in Review.
IHL Approves renaming of Meek School of Journalism
Ole Miss Chancellor Jeffrey S. Vitter announced on October 9 the Institutes of Higher Learning board approved the University to take the next steps required in removing Ed Meek’s name from UM’s Meek School of Journalism and New Media.
Ole Miss NCAA case is closed
NCAA’s Infractions Appeal Committee announced its verdict on November 1st to uphold Ole Miss’ bowl, ban but allow the program to recruit to the fullest extent. This ruling closed a six-year investigation, and an appeal process that lasted 11 months.
Chancellor Jeff Vitter announces he’s stepping down
Mississippi Institutes of Higher Learning announced on November 9 Vitter will step down as chancellor and transition to a faculty role at UM. He will serve as a Distinguished Professor in the School of Engineering’s Department of Computer and Information Science, effective January 3.
King named state counselor of the year
In her 19th year as a school counselor, and 25th in education, Amy King was named Mississippi Counseling Association’s School Counselor of the Year, representing how she is able to adapt to the twists and turns that come with being a counselor.
Kroger Expansion approved
The City of Oxford’s Planning Commission approved plans to almost double the size of the Kroger on University Avenue after a public hearing on November 16. This would include the addition of a Corky’s BBQ restaurant and a Starbucks.
Canopy of Lights returns after 50+ year hiatus
The Canopy of Lights returned for the first time since 1960s, as lights draped from the storefronts to the clocktower on the Lafayette County Courthouse were lit up on November 20.
Water Valley wins second state title over Seminary
The Water Valley Blue Devils defeated Seminary 34-28 in the win the MHSAA Class 3A state championship at Southern Mississippi’s M.M. Roberts stadium on November 30, marking the school’s second state title and the first since 1990.
Blauer announces relocation out of Lafayette
Blauer Manufacturing, which has been in Lafayette County since 1997 and currently employs 150 employees, announced on November 21 it will be leaving Lafayette County in summer of 2019. Employees at the clothing and protective wear company based in Lafayette County will be offered a lateral move to Panola County.