Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Christian Services in Hattiesburg will host a coat giveaway on Jan.

15 for community members in need. Residents can join the event at the Christian Services location and pick up a free coat — a timely help for the cold season.

Local Loblolly Bakery in Hattiesburg upgraded its operations with a new oven and second kitchen to boost king cake production to 500 — 600 daily just in time for Mardi Gras, and it now ships orders nationwide with purchases accepted in-store or online.

Eligible Amazon Prime customers in Mississippi can file a claim from the $2.5 billion FTC settlement until July 23 (automatic payments were issued for lower usage accounts).

They must follow instructions sent by mail or email to receive funds via PayPal, Venmo, or check.

At the McCain Library on the USM campus, the de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection displays rare children’s books and manuscripts that show centuries of history and global art; visitors must call ahead to access the clearance-only room (inquire for key availability).

The new 90,000 sqft elementary school on Herrington Road will finish by May and begin a summer move for the new school year, while a multi-purpose center will complete by late March for upcoming school programs, following road improvements to ease local traffic.

Mississippi lawmakers began debating school choice proposals in the 2026 legislative session, including ideas (vouchers, ESAs and charter schools) aimed at giving parents more control over education; critics worry that these changes may take funds away from public schools.

The IRS will begin accepting tax returns later in January, and Hattiesburg residents can file for free using IRS Free File, VITA, or Tax-Aide programs.

Most 2025 returns are due by April 15 with extensions due by Oct. 15—taxpayers should prepare early.

Hattiesburg-based AIDS Services Coalition announced that longtime executive director Kathy Garner will retire at the end of January after 20 years leading the organization (she expanded services across 63 counties) and that Robin Moffett will assume leadership.

Byram native Chris Jones (state championship-winning linebacker from Hartfield Academy) committed to Ole Miss football Tuesday after leading Southern Miss in tackles during a breakout season, having turned down offers from Florida State and Mississippi State to remain in Mississippi.

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.