Good morning, Hattiesburg.

This weekend in the Pine Belt offers many events for all ages — theatre shows such as Big Fish at Southern Miss Theatre and The Last Five Years at the Arabian Theatre today, a toy festival at the Hattiesburg Salvation Army, parades like Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade and family festivals, along with a gardening workshop by Southern Roots, a BBQ Festival, an inclusive rodeo at Worthy Stables and a crawfish boil with live music at J’s Tavern. Most shows and activities run from today through Sunday, giving locals plenty of options to enjoy spring.

Hattiesburg police confirmed a 33-year-old man was hit and killed by a train near Highway 49 and West Pine Street at about 11:45 a.m. on Thursday—his identity remains withheld until a family member is notified.

Before Wednesday's game, North Woolmarket Middle School's softball team welcomed three honorees in honor of World Down Syndrome Day—coach Maya Lambert and her students celebrated community support as honorary teammate Luke threw the ceremonial first pitch.

Donations for the Gulf Coast Down Syndrome Society will be accepted through today.

State leaders reported that eight tornadoes touched down on March 14 and 15, damaging 941 homes, 38 businesses, and 25 farms while 164 homes were destroyed and 204 sustained major damage.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency filled requests for 1,000 sandbags, 1,300 tarps, and 24,000 bottles of water, and distribution centers are open in Grenada, Smith, and Walthall counties—one tornado reached EF-4.

On Thursday morning the Mississippi House passed a Senate plan to end the income tax, lower the grocery tax from 7% to 5%, raise the gas tax by 9 cents over three years and change public employee retirement benefits — a motion to reconsider means lawmakers will keep discussing the plan. The bill now heads to Governor Reeves’s desk — final changes are expected as talks continue.

USM Dance Gala Concert

The Dance Gala Concert features performances by talented dancers from the USM Dance Program, including works by guest artists and faculty.

Hudson Westbrook Live at Ole 60

Hudson Westbrook will perform live at the Forrest County Multi-Purpose venue in Hattiesburg.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs. South Alabama Jaguars Baseball Game

Watch the Southern Miss Golden Eagles take on the South Alabama Jaguars in an exciting collegiate baseball game at Pete Taylor Park, with a portion of proceeds supporting various causes.

Hattiesburg 10K Run

7 AM — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Registration fees apply — Experience the scenic streets of Hattiesburg while supporting local charities in this vibrant 10K race.

Louisiana Monroe Warhawks vs Southern Miss Golden Eagles Softball

12-4 p.m. — Southern Miss Softball Stadium — Cost info not provided — Experience the excitement of collegiate softball with the Warhawks taking on the Golden Eagles.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs. Texas State Bobcats

6-10 p.m. — Southern Miss Softball Complex — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting college softball match while supporting charitable causes.

Hub City Classic Car Show

10 AM – 7 PM — Forrest County Multi-Purpose — Tickets available online — Celebrate classic cars at this exciting local showcase.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs. Texas State Bobcats

12-4 p.m. — USM Softball Complex, Hattiesburg, MS — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting matchup between the Southern Miss Golden Eagles and Texas State Bobcats while supporting a cause!

3rd Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt

3-7 p.m. — Town Square Park — Free entry — Enjoy an afternoon of fun with Easter-themed activities, local vendors, and a charming photo opportunity with baby farm animals.

Easter Sunday Groove with The Jay Morris Group

6:30-11 p.m. — Nostalgia Lounge & Bar — Refunds up to 21 days before event — Get ready for a Southern Soul celebration where the Aunties and Uncs groove together on Easter Sunday.