Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Big Lots reopened two Mississippi stores on April 10 under new management and will open a third in Southaven on May 15 as part of a plan to revive 219 stores with a fall grand opening—Variety Wholesalers said the refreshed stores will offer remodels and new merchandise—after the chain declared bankruptcy and was sold to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners.

Over 6 million honeybees died in the last year, raising concerns among scientists and local beekeepers that reduced pollination may lead to higher food prices—experts are studying causes like parasites, pesticides, and climate change—and the USDA is funding research to understand the decline. Local researchers stress that knowing the reasons for the losses is key to protecting the food system.

North Forrest Volunteer Fire Department will now send quarterly donation cards to residents to raise funds separately from the water department—$60 annual contributions will cover fuel, equipment maintenance and new gear to keep firefighters safe.

Gov. Tate Reeves signed a bill on Thursday that limits kratom purchases to people 21 and older and bans synthetic kratom extracts, with the law set to take effect July 1.

House Bill 1077, authored by Rep. Lee Yancey, imposes fines on underage buyers and retailers who sell kratom — steps taken to protect children.

Forrest County Juvenile Detention Center was honored statewide with the Mississippi Pinnacle Awards for its programs that help troubled youth.

The center offers education, mental health, and mentoring services in partnership with Hattiesburg Public Schools and will be renamed while funding is sought to upgrade the facility.

Gov. Reeves signed a new law on April 15 that creates a board to study domestic violence deaths—using records from police, court and medical sources—to guide lawmakers on prevention measures.

Family members of victims such as Napier, Collins and Reed attended the event and said the board will ensure that victims are not left as just a number.

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.