Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Construction on a new entrance at Robert E.

Russell Sportsplex will be completed by April to improve access for local visitors.

Gas prices in Mississippi jumped 9 cents Tuesday after growing concerns over oil disruptions from the Iran conflict, with benchmark crude closing near a seven‐month high.

Analysts say if tensions continue, pumps may see further modest increases in the coming weeks.

Hattiesburg resident Myra Hawthorne is exploring a 24-hour child care option (designed to support families with irregular work hours) to ease long waitlists and limited service hours amid subsidy cuts.

The proposal remains in the planning phase as local demand for flexible care grows.

Mississippi high school teachers can apply for the free Mississippi High School Journalism Project + receive a new curriculum, teacher training and expert coaching for fall classes.

Applications close on Sunday, March 15, with selections announced on Monday, March 23.

Dry conditions have led the Mississippi Forestry Commission to impose burn bans across 14 counties, affecting local outdoor burning due to wildfire risks.

Residents must follow the bans until county boards lift them, with fines of $100 to $500 on violations unless one is a certified burn manager or approved contractor.

Mississippi joined five states in urging the federal government to make permanent relaxed COVID-era agriculture rules, including changes to crop insurance + USDA loan processes.

Officials said the reforms would ease burdens on local farmers while keeping food safety and environmental standards intact.

The Mississippi House passed a bill, HB 4014, that allows college athletes to receive tax-free NIL money pending Senate+Governor approval.

The measure aims to boost local colleges' recruiting efforts.

Cassandra Welchlin, executive director of the Mississippi Black Women's Roundtable, said that pay inequality continues in Mississippi as Black women earn far less than white men, and state lawmakers have yet to take meaningful action on the issue.

Mississippi State and Southern Miss will face off Tuesday night at Pete Taylor Park in a top midweek baseball matchup — both teams will rest their best starting pitchers and use younger arms as they compete for a win.

Mississippi State baseball did not include starting center fielder Aidan Teel in its March 3 game against Southern Miss at Pete Taylor Park, and his absence was not explained by the team.

Bryce Chance started in center field instead.

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.