Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Mississippi Votes opened a new office at 2200 Hardy St. (Suite 10) in Hattiesburg to help teach and support voters ahead of upcoming primary elections.

The nonprofit plans voter registration drives and education events for students from the University of Southern Mississippi and local residents in south-central areas.

Hattiesburg police reported that vehicle thefts and break-ins have increased since January, including 12 auto burglaries in less than 48 hours on March 28 (11 of which involved unlocked vehicles), and they urge residents to secure their vehicles (by locking doors, taking keys, and hiding valuables) to deter further crimes.

Maureen Fortuna, a graduate student who studied abroad at Southern Miss, returned to Hattiesburg to pursue a Master’s in the Teaching of Languages and teach French classes.

Originally from eastern Belgium (where French is spoken), she plans to continue teaching at the college level and pursue a Ph.D. in language revitalization to help preserve endangered languages.

On Tuesday, Hattiesburg voters chose Eric Boney for Ward 2 and reelected Nicholas Brown for Ward 5 while Petal voters confirmed Mayor Tony Ducker and Alderman Gerald Steele with unopposed runs—securing their positions ahead of further contests.

Some Hattiesburg council races—like in Ward 1 and Ward 3—will be decided on June 3 as remaining candidates prepare to fill open seats in July.

House lawmakers ended the 2025 session early on Wednesday after failing to pass a $7 billion budget and a local project funding bill, leaving Gov. Reeves to plan a special session that may cost about $100,000 per day.

Senate leaders planned to reconvene Thursday morning and said budget talks could resume next week.

Mississippi lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday that creates a 22-day excused voting period (letting voters with valid work or travel excuses cast ballots in person) at circuit clerk offices.

The legislation stops counting mail-in ballots received after election day and now awaits Governor Reeves' signature.

On March 23, 17-year-old Finn Norsworthy and his father won a bass fishing tournament at Ross Barnett Reservoir when he caught an 11.24-pound bass — a catch that may be the second-largest recorded in over 20 years.

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.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers

6-7:45 p.m. — USM Softball Complex, Hattiesburg, MS — Ticket prices vary — Catch the action as the Southern Miss Golden Eagles take on the Appalachian State Mountaineers in an exciting college softball matchup.

Henry Cho Stand-Up Comedy Show

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Henry Cho, known for his appearances on top late-night shows.