A Texas judge reinstated Tulsa National after a disqualification, putting Boerne Little League’s World Series berth on hold and forcing a must-win Southwest Region title game in Waco (Tuesday at 6 p.m.) for Boerne to advance to the World Series.
Little League International disqualified Tulsa National from the Southwest Region baseball tournament for an ineligible player, voiding their 3-2 win over Louisiana and turning the semifinal into the regional final; the title game was canceled, and penalties for individuals weren’t announced, marking a second roster controversy for Tulsa National in three weeks.
A Texas judge granted a temporary restraining order allowing Tulsa National Little League’s 12U team, previously disqualified for an ineligible player, to play a one-game rematch against Texas West (Boerne Little League) on Aug. 11 in Waco to decide the Southwest Region representative for the Little League World Series, overturning the earlier forfeit and region removal with the winner advancing to Williamsport. The decision follows a protest by other leagues; Tulsa National’s softball team faced a separate eligibility ruling earlier, and Little League says the determination is final while supporting affected families.
Needville Little League from Texas secured a 6-2 victory over Fargo, North Dakota, in the Little League Baseball World Series. Representing the Southwest region, Needville has now won two consecutive games in the tournament. The small town of Needville, with a population of 2,283, is rallying behind their team and making a statement on the world stage. The boys' success is a testament to the town's strong program, dedicated coaches, and supportive community. Needville will face off against El Segundo, California, representing the West region, in their next game.
Two chefs from Oklahoma City, Andrew Black and Jeff Chanchaleune, have been named finalists for the James Beard Award in the southwest region, which includes Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Oklahoma. The James Beard Award recognizes exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industry and demonstrates a commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive. The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 5, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.