That was a close one. On the heels of a gubernatorial announcement that Florida had reached a record high number of tourists in 2024 came word of legislation that could have meant the end of sports commissions, CVBs and other organizations in the Sunshine State, effectively cutting tourism to the bone. Fortunately, lawmakers allowed the bill to die.

In what was perhaps the most eagerly awaited youth sports development of the summer, the inaugural set of the National Federation of State High School Associations Flag Football Rules have been published and are now available. Three field size options are available, and a consistent set of rules will now govern the sport. Here are some of the details.

Wiffle® Ball, the scaled-back plastic version of America's pastime that is part of many childhood memories, is receiving some much-deserved love this summer. For starters, there are now Wiffle® Ball complexes (yes, really) and fields in various cities across America. Also, there are tournaments and championships, with people traveling to participate.

Cheating in some sports is easier than cheating in others. In marathon running, racers can use fake bibs or take shortcuts along the course. In fact, breaking the rules is so common that one magazine published “Nine of the most brazen marathon cheats of all time” a while back. But now, crafty internet sleuths are creating a world of hurt for cheats.

It's not even close to the bidding cycle, but we are halfway into 2024, and potential host cities for the 2036 and 2040 Summer Olympics are beginning to emerge. No fewer than four countries have confirmed bids for 2036, with leaders in at least three others talking about 2040. Some have hosted before and some are first-timers but the interest is there.

Out with the little bottles of shampoo, lotion and body wash. In with the containers that can be refilled by housekeeping staff in hotels. It is a concept that has been gaining traction as more hotels take up the mantle of sustainability and eco-friendliness. Maine is working to add itself to the list of states that outlaw those single use containers.