Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Local officials broke ground at Tatum Park on Monday to start building a $35 million sports complex that will include 16 pickleball courts, 10 volleyball courts, six basketball courts & four futsal soccer fields.

The venue is expected to host athletic programs and regional tournaments to boost local tourism.

North Forrest Volunteer Fire Department answered five calls over a 15-hour period Monday - showing their busy day serving local emergencies.

Their rapid response helps keep our community safe.

Two state bills in review may soon raise teacher pay if passed— House Bill 1126 would boost base salaries from $41,500 to $46,500 with an extra $3,000 for special education teachers, while Senate Bill 2001 outlines a $2,000 increase for teachers and assistants.

On Monday, the Senate passed Senate Bill 2272 to remove the 1.5% sales tax on agricultural equipment used by farmers following a 50-1 vote, and the measure now heads to the House for further debate.

The new State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering in Hattiesburg has updated licensing rules by eliminating the practical skills exam and now relying on written assessments (state-appointed) to ensure candidate safety.

The board met Monday and will soon release temporary sanitation rules to help resume license issuance.

A bill (HB 1400) that would have allowed high school athletes to sign NIL deals died in a House committee.

Lawmakers must revive the plan in a future session if they want to let student-athletes earn money from endorsements.

During Low Vision Awareness Month, Southern Low Vision is working to clear up common misconceptions about limited eyesight by explaining that patients can still drive if they pass specialized tests and meet Mississippi’s standards (tools like glasses and shades often help them manage everyday tasks).

This February is Low Vision Awareness Month in Hattiesburg.

Local health clinics are offering free screenings and educational workshops to help residents learn about managing low vision.

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss will face a court hearing for his NCAA eligibility suit at 9:30 a.m. Feb.

12 in Pittsboro, Mississippi; his legal team says he will suffer financial harm and may get a temporary injunction to play this season.

USM senior left-handed pitcher Kros Sivley brings veteran experience as the Golden Eagles prepare for a three-game series against UCSB at Pete Taylor Park + game one starts at 4 p.m. Friday.

Sacred Heart Catholic High School's Lady Crusaders advanced to the Elite Eight with a 2 to 0 win at McLaurin High School Tuesday — their next match against three-time champions St. Patrick is yet to be scheduled.

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.

Dance Gala Concert

7-9 p.m. — Mannoni Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Experience the premiere dance event of the season amidst a vibrant atmosphere.