Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Fraternity brothers at the University of Southern Mississippi found a missing Yorkie on Friday at their Kappa Sigma house and reunited him with his owner Debbie LaFleur, who drove from Hattiesburg to Louisiana after receiving an email tip (the dog had been missing since Hurricane Laura in 2020) and now he is an honorary member of the chapter.

Tate County is cleaning up after a tornado hit Wednesday night — trees fell along Oakdale Lane and Peyton Road as residents reported roof damage and broken windshields while beginning repairs and contacting insurance providers.

USM freshman Molly Collins was honored with the Congressional Award Silver Medal earlier this semester — she completed over 200 hours of public service, 100 hours of personal development and 100 hours of physical fitness while meeting expedition requirements.

Collins, a computer science major from Madison, received the award from Brady Stewart, district director for U.S. Rep. Michael Guest.

On March 28th, the U.S. Department of Education ended the liquidation period for COVID funds, putting $137 million at risk for Mississippi schools.

State Superintendent Lance Evans said districts are pausing projects—fearing contract defaults if funding is not reinstated.

Recent storms injured six people and damaged 60 homes in North Mississippi.

Meteorologists warn that more severe storms with tornado risks, damaging winds and hail the size of golf balls will impact parts of the state later today.

The City of Hattiesburg will host its annual Student Summer Job Fair on April 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Ben McNair Center—teenagers and young adults will learn about summer job opportunities and build networking skills.

The Mississippi National Guard and Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center will dedicate two helipads named ALPHA and ZULU today at 1:00 p.m. on the parade field to honor Army aviators Derek J.

Abbott and Bryan A. Zemek, who died during a training accident on February 23 — the dedication follows House Resolution No. 86 adopted on March 17.

The Hattiesburg Half Marathon is set to begin today at 7 a.m. in front of the Saenger Theater, drawing about 1,500 runners (with hundreds of volunteers participating).

City officials have scheduled road closures affecting downtown and neighboring areas (including North Main, The Oaks, and Parkhaven) from 6 a.m. until noon to support the event.

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.

Appalachian State Mountaineers vs Southern Miss Golden Eagles Softball

12-4 p.m. — USM Softball Complex — Ticket sales final — Catch the action as the Golden Eagles take on the Mountaineers in a thrilling softball showdown.