Good morning, Hattiesburg.

The Hattiesburg Arts Council announced that Elizabeth Henry became its new executive director on Monday after a nationwide search; she brings nearly 20 years of experience (from nonprofits and architectural planning) and aims to boost local arts through partnerships with community groups and officials.

Mississippi House Speaker Jason White announced a bundled education reform package that prioritizes school choice by including an expanded ESA program + the Tim Tebow Act, to be introduced by the end of this week.

His Monday remarks set the stage for the session ahead, signaling more options for parents.

Federal lawmakers are proposing a 46% cut to Legal Services Corporation funding that supports free legal help in our area.

Hattiesburg’s Mississippi Center for Legal Services may face staff cuts or office closures, potentially affecting over 14,000 low-income residents.

The Ole Miss Rebels entered the Final Four as underdogs after defeating Georgia 39-34 in the Sugar Bowl on Thursday, Jan.

1 — a win that boosted team unity. Coach Pete Golding said the team remains focused despite tough odds, with Indiana and Miami favored in the upcoming matches.

Fans are invited to vote for the Clarion Ledger high school athlete of the week for Dec.

29-Jan. 3 using an online poll with one vote per hour per device. The poll will close at noon on Friday (future nominations can be emailed for upcoming contests).

Rick Cleveland, a Hattiesburg native and Mississippi Today sports columnist, is named Mississippi Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association for the 15th time, and he is reporting from Arizona where he covers Ole Miss football ahead of the Fiesta Bowl.

Hattiesburg Renaissance Festival

12:00 – 11:30 p.m. — SwitchYard — $15 – $20 — Experience the magic of medieval celebration with crafts, music, and festivities in the heart of Hattiesburg.

Vision Board Party: Vision and Vibes Social

12-3 a.m. — 101 Shadow Lake Dr, Hattiesburg, MS — Included with ticket — Connect with like-minded individuals while creating vision boards and enjoying poetry vibes and food.