Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Raising Cane’s in Hattiesburg is raising funds for Southern Pines Animal Shelter by selling a limited-edition Golden Birthday Plush Puppy through April 29 during its 28th anniversary — also known as its golden birthday.

Net proceeds from the $9.99 sale will go directly to local animal shelters — supporting pet welfare.

Hattiesburg hosted the Hub City Classic Car Show on April 12 at the Forrest County Multi-Purpose Center with over 100 classic, custom and exotic vehicles on display.

Organized by Spokes-N-Vogues and QVP Media, the family-friendly event ran from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and drew thousands of car enthusiasts + supported local businesses.

Today, Houston-based graffiti artist GONZO247 is painting a vibrant mural on a Hattiesburg building at 201 W.

Pine Street. He uses bold colors to transform the blank wall into art that reflects the city's energy.

A Career Minds study ranked Mississippi's best employers based on benefits and perks, naming NASA's John C.

Stennis Space Center as the top employer in 2024 and recognizing Sanderson Farms and Ingalls Shipbuilding for strong career programs — NASA may face budget cuts and layoffs that could lower its ranking later this year.

USM students protested April 11 in a march organized by the NAACP and Afro-American Student Organization to oppose a proposed law that would ban DEI programs in public schools and colleges—students and professors said the measure could limit historical lessons and reduce campus inclusivity. Critics noted that the legislation has passed both chambers of the legislature but has not yet been signed by Governor Tate Reeves.

Mississippi's black bears are coming out of dens after winter, so officials advise residents to secure food and garbage, remove bird feeders, and clean grills to keep bears away from homes.

Residents are also encouraged to use electric fencing and to back away slowly if they see a bear.

Federal funding cuts ended the free STI testing that community groups and clinics once received from the state lab, forcing them to pay for tests or contract with commercial labs.

Clinics are now testing for chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea while seeking new funding sources to keep essential services available — a change that may lead to fewer tests overall.

Southern Miss football coach Charles Huff is reshaping his team as several players opted to enter the transfer portal—opened on April 16 and will close April 25.

Defensive lineman Armondous Cooley, wide receiver Ti Mims, and running back Jalen Washington are among those leaving while no new transfers have committed to join the team.

In college baseball midweek, Ole Miss lost 7-3 to Little Rock in Oxford after the Rebels allowed back-to-back two-run frames, and Southern Miss won in Hattiesburg with a go-ahead grand slam against Southeastern Louisiana.

Mississippi State also beat Southern University 16-2 in Starkville with strong offensive plays.

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.

Pancakes with Pastors

3:00-4:30 AM — The Claiborne at Hattiesburg Assisted Living — RSVP required — Enjoy flapjacks and fellowship to honor local clergy serving the community.

Madea Seed Mother’s Day Brunch

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — RICHBURG COMMUNITY CENTER — Special gift for moms — Celebrate amazing mothers with brunch and a chance to win a $250 gift!

38th Anniversary of the Mothers' Day Blues Festival

2-10 p.m. — Forrest County Multipurpose Center — $47-$75 — Celebrate Mother's Day with live blues music at the festival in Hattiesburg.