Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Yesterday, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association held its annual meeting at the historic train depot, showcasing growth—with six new businesses, 14 new jobs and nearly $10 million in investments.

The meeting also recognized local contributors for their roles in business, the arts and community spirit.

Mississippi National Guard announced Friday that land has been purchased along U.S. 49 near Camp Shelby’s South Gate so the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum can relocate and expand for easier visitor access.

Museum officials plan to break ground in 12 to 18 months.

Mississippi officials say Workforce Pell will expand on July 1 to cover short-term accredited training programs, offering low-income students a chance to develop job-ready skills.

The move may broaden access to career training and support the state's workforce goals.

On Feb. 3, the Senate Education Committee quickly killed Speaker Jason White's school choice bill, prompting split reactions from local advocates.

Gov. Tate Reeves and others expressed disappointment while supporters argued that offering choice would boost standards + critics warned of falling test scores in other states.

Hattiesburg Public Schools is hosting a teacher fair today at a local campus to connect educators with job opportunities and resource information (details include updated timing and locations).

Local healthcare providers in Hattiesburg support National Wear Red Day to focus on women's heart health.

They urge women to take preventive steps and keep regular check-ups (as experts recommend).

Forrest Health’s Spirit of Women program and Southern Miss athletics hosted the third annual Batter Up!

Baseball Talk for Besties event where fans could pitch & bat and meet players in Hattiesburg. The Golden Eagles will open play on Friday, Feb. 13 at Pete Taylor Park.

The 40th Annual Southern Miss Coca-Cola Classic Rodeo, known as the ‘Greatest Show on Dirt’, will occur this weekend in Hattiesburg — Production Manager Jacob Moorhead outlined the event's top dirt riding acts and local excitement.

Molten Mohawk Niner and 4 Miler

7:30-9:45 a.m. — Thomley's Christmas Tree Farm — Cost varies — Challenge your endurance with a scenic run through Hattiesburg's beautiful landscape.

Mustache The Band Live

8 p.m. — Brewsky's — Tickets start at $27 — Experience an unforgettable night of live music with Mustache The Band.

Flow Tribe Live Concert

8-11 p.m. — Brewsky's — Check event page for ticket info — Experience high-energy performances blending R&B, soul, and Caribbean rhythms by the lively Flow Tribe.