Good morning, Hattiesburg.

On March 19, the Hattiesburg Zoo said Maya, a 21-year-old jaguar with kidney disease and age-related issues, was given life-ending treatment and passed away.

Maya arrived from the Memphis Zoo in 2016 and staff set aside a space for visitors to leave flowers and photos — a tribute to her long time at the zoo.

Fat Cat, a popular bar near the University of Southern Mississippi, began charging an extra fee in March for guests under 21 to support income since these patrons cannot buy alcohol; the fee (which goes to performers or event hosts) applies to some events and has drawn mixed reactions from students. The bar still holds trivia, karaoke and drag shows and hopes to keep its space open despite the new charge.

The University of Southern Mississippi will host the Fay B.

Kaigler Children’s Book Festival and Ezra Jack Keats Award ceremony on campus from April 9 to 11, where Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator LeUyen Pham will receive the Southern Miss Medallion — emerging authors and illustrators will also be recognized. Tickets are available at a discounted rate for students, staff, and faculty.

Students at the University of Southern Mississippi have raised concerns about campus accessibility as they face difficulties using mobility aids at key locations like the Thad Cochran Center — Trinity Spencer said her attempt to guide her sister in a wheelchair through campus in the rain was hampered by nonfunctioning accessibility buttons, prompting calls for more regular maintenance from the university's Student Accessibility Services and Physical Plant Department.

Voters in the Pine Belt will cast ballots in the primary election for municipal races on April 1.

WDAM has posted candidate details for city council and mayor positions in counties like Forrest & Jones.

USM Police Chief Rusty Keyes recently talked about safety on the Longleaf Trace and asked students and residents to use the buddy system and avoid the trail when it is dark—police now patrol 500 feet beyond campus to keep everyone safe.

He said that staying alert and letting a friend know your plans can help prevent problems on the busy trail.

The Senate tax cut bill had a mistake in its income tax trigger that could cause the tax to be eliminated faster than planned, and lawmakers are now working on adjustments as Gov. Reeves is set to sign.

Lawmakers discovered the error during committee review and are also negotiating changes for public employee retirement benefits.

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.

Southeastern Louisiana Lions vs. USM Golden Eagles Baseball

6-10 p.m. — Pete Taylor Park — Tickets start at $1 — Enjoy a night of college baseball featuring local teams with guaranteed low prices.