Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Women in Pine Belt raised $119,000 for Kids Hub Child Advocacy Center during its annual Power of 100 Women luncheon on Thursday — surpassing its $100,000 goal.

Didi Ellis said the funds will support programs that help children facing hard times.

The Hattiesburg Vicious Biscuit breakfast restaurant will open Saturday at 3818 Hardy St in Midtown Market with a grand opening celebration offering swag to the first 100 customers—franchise owners Cliff and Hunter Russum plan to expand by opening two more stores in Jackson.

Local shoppers will face a Walmart boycott from April 7 through 14 while a 40-day Target boycott runs until April 17 — part of a national protest urging companies to bring back diversity, equity and inclusion policies.

Organizers plan additional boycotts and an economic blackout from April 18 to 20 along with further actions into summer to push for changes in corporate practices.

The Mississippi Department of Education said schools may lose $137 million in federal COVID relief funds after the U.S. Department of Education ended the March 31 liquidation deadline.

MDE is guiding 66 school districts to pause services and projects—while urging the department to reinstate the deadline to avoid serious financial and educational losses.

Mississippi hospitals are required to stock rape kits and perform tests on sexual assault victims in ERs pending the governor's signature; lawmakers passed the unanimous measure Thursday and it will take effect July 1—protecting patients from being turned away.

Gov. Tate Reeves said he will call lawmakers into a special session to adopt a budget before agencies run out of funds by June 30—he also considered adding school choice, a parental bill of rights, certificate of need reform and mobile sports betting to the agenda.

The GOP-controlled Senate on Wednesday rejected Cory Custer—Reeves’ deputy chief of staff—from serving a four–year term on the Mississippi Public Broadcasting board amid concerns over his access to the governor’s Twitter account.

Governor Reeves is expected to name a new nominee at the next legislative session.

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.