Good morning, Hattiesburg.

HUBFEST returns to downtown Hattiesburg this weekend, drawing thousands of visitors and nearly 200 vendors while boosting the local economy by about $1.5 million.

Local business owners, including newcomers, are preparing their shops for the event after last year’s cancellation.

Legislative leaders have appointed negotiators to settle teacher pay raise bills — the Senate proposes a $6,000 increase over three years while the House offers a $5,000 immediate raise.

Negotiations will continue in the final days of the session.

Gov. Tate Reeves signed a bill Monday that eases state approval requirements for rural hospitals to add services or make costly upgrades.

The pilot program now benefits about 55 facilities and will run until June 2027 — letting hospitals in small communities and the Delta apply for specific exemptions.

Lawmakers sent a bill to Governor Tate Reeves on Monday to ensure that federal funds for rural health care are directed to underserved communities & that spending details are reported to the Legislature.

The bill sets rules such as requiring quarterly reports and will take effect immediately if signed.

Two Mississippi medical cannabis bills passed and now await the governor's decision to ease restrictions for current patients and add new access options.

Medical dispensary owner Michael Haddox (of Mary Jane and Herb's) said the changes, including removal of THC limits and extended card durations, could improve care in Hattiesburg.

A local veterinarian, Dr. Ezra Ameis, advises Hattiesburg pet owners to ease seasonal allergies in pets using a multi-layered approach — including antihistamines, pet wipes, and oatmeal shampoo.

He adds that HEPA air purifiers can help reduce allergens indoors.

The No. 11 Golden Eagles will travel to Starkville Tuesday for a rematch with the No. 4 Bulldogs at 6 p.m. at Dudy Noble Field — Polk-Dement Stadium after earning a 7-6 win in Hattiesburg.

Christone 'Kingfish' Ingram - The Hard Road Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — $43.30- $74.25 — Experience the dynamic sound of blues with Kingfish's innovative musical journey.

Downtown Crawfish Jam 2026

10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Walthall Park — $40-$50 — Enjoy live music and all-you-can-eat crawfish at this family-friendly festival.