Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg will host the 11th Annual Craft Beer Festival at the Rebekah Stark Johnson Community Art Center on May 17 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.—VIP entry starts at 5:00 p.m. and only those 21 or older with a valid photo ID can attend.

Veterans in Hattiesburg can learn about services and benefits at the fifth annual VetFest, which will be held Saturday, May 17 at Town Square Park and run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.—offering free admission, wellness checks, live music, food vendors, giveaways, raffles and a Kids Zone. The event is organized by Hattiesburg Disabled American Veterans Chapter #62 and will also honor World War Two and Korean War veterans.

Mississippi residents with Siri-enabled devices that unintentionally recorded private conversations between September 17, 2014 and December 31, 2024 may qualify for a payout from Apple's $95 million settlement—claims for up to five devices per person must be filed by July 1, 2025 with potential payouts of up to $20 per device, though Apple denies the allegations.

A Forrest County Circuit Court jury cleared Hattiesburg man Eddie Person of capital murder and evidence tampering after a few hours of deliberation—he was charged in connection with the January 3 shooting death of volunteer coach Jay Tarvin.

Mississippi’s only woman on death row, Lisa Jo Chamberlin, will not get a new trial after the Mississippi Supreme Court ruled her appeal untimely by rejecting her claim of new evidence and coercion in the 2004 murders of Linda Heintzelman and Vernon Hulett—she was sentenced to death in 2006 following multiple confessions.

Hattiesburg officers responded at Walt Massey Chevrolet on Timothy Lane when a suspect with a firearm exchanged gunfire with police and was critically injured and taken to a nearby hospital—no officers were injured as the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation gathers evidence for the Attorney General’s Office.

Last week, the University of Southern Mississippi awarded an honorary doctorate to Clarence Magee for his work in education and civil rights in Hattiesburg—he has taught, served, and helped improve local housing and voter rights.

His long career in teaching, public service, and community action earned praise from the Honorary Degree Committee for his lasting impact on the region.

Law enforcement officers from Hattiesburg Police Department and Forrest County Sheriff’s Office who died in the line of duty were honored Wednesday at the Lake Terrace Convention Center with a wreath + 21-gun salute.

Each fallen officer’s name was read aloud to show the community’s deep gratitude for their sacrifice.

Mississippi lawmakers remain divided over the $7 billion budget as the House pushes to use capital expense funds for local projects—while the Senate resists over concerns of federal cuts.

Governor Reeves warned he may fund essential state agencies himself if a budget is not passed by July 1 and may call a special session to break the impasse.

Mississippi lawmakers are at an impasse over a $7 billion state budget as the fiscal year ends June 30, and they work to finalize a deal before agencies risk shutting down after July 1.

If no agreement is reached, most state agencies will close temporarily—though some core services may continue under court rulings.

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.

Yonder – Featuring Works by Ricardo Moody

12-2 p.m. — Prospect On Main — Free entry — Enjoy a FestivalTalk with featured artist Ricardo Moody and an exclusive viewing of his commemorative artwork.

Dog Days Run Walk

7:30-9:00 a.m. — Kamper Park — Entry fee applies — Enjoy a family-friendly run or walk with your furry friends while supporting Hub City Service Dogs.