Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Chef Joshua Cathey, a Hattiesburg native and USM alumnus who won the southern Region title in March, will represent Southern Miss with Aramark Collegiate Hospitality in a national culinary competition this summer—he has served as Eagle Dining's executive chef since 2021—bringing a bold taste of southern cooking to the table.

Six Days Later, a band of four USM freshmen, is recording two singles with Petal Dance Records for summer release ahead of an EP later this year—co-leads KJ Marbry and Ry Cooper formed the band over breakfast and recruited bassist Jon Shute and drummer Seb Mike to mix pop punk, emo and metalcore sounds.

T-Bones Records & Café hosted Record Store Day this April, attracting music fans from Hattiesburg and the region with over 350 limited-edition vinyl records, eight live performers and free posters for the first 100 customers—some fans even camped overnight to secure their exclusive releases. Manager Mik Davis said the event showed how the store offers a broad range of live music and special releases that help independent record stores stay competitive—proving Record Store Day remains a popular celebration for music lovers.

The University of Southern Mississippi’s Bands Department will host a weeklong series of free concerts from April 25 to May 1 on the Thomas V.

Fraschillo Stage at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium to mark Dr. Colin McKenzie’s final performances as a full-time conductor - the series includes shows by the Symphonic Winds on April 25 at 7:30 p.m., by the University Band and Hattiesburg Concert Band on April 27 at 3 p.m., a collaborative performance with the Sumrall High School Concert Band on April 29 at 7:30 p.m., and a finale by the Wind Ensemble premiering a new symphony and Johan de Meij’s Lord of the Rings on May 1.

Many students at the University of Southern Mississippi face spring burnout as rising temperatures and midterm stress lower focus and lead some to drop classes—Registrar Gregory W.

Pierce said stress grows after spring break—and many struggle to use campus help.

As final exams approach, USM students are encouraged to boost their mental health by spending time outdoors.

Director Mark Crager said students can use the Wilgus Fitness and Wellness Trail and Pride Field—where free sports equipment is available—to relax and stay active.

Today in Hattiesburg, millions of birds begin their spring migration with nightly flights expected until May 10 — experts advise residents to turn off nonessential lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. to help prevent bird collisions.

Mississippi will observe Confederate Memorial Day on Monday, April 28 to honor soldiers who died during the Civil War.

A bill to replace the holiday with Juneteenth Freedom Day died in committee while lawmakers have tried for years to change the tradition—reflecting ongoing debate over the state’s Confederate heritage.

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.

Haunted Tavern Experience

6-7:30 p.m. — The Social — Tickets required — An immersive cocktail evening featuring ghostly tales and handcrafted drinks in one of Hattiesburg's most haunted venues.

Cade Ortego Live in Hattiesburg

8-10 p.m. — Brewsky's — $13.10 — Catch the lively performance by Cade Ortego and The Mood Swings for a night of great music.