Good morning, Hattiesburg.

The Miami Hurricanes baseball team praised the Holiday Inn Express after winning the NCAA Hattiesburg Regional and thanked the staff for their excellent care.

General Manager Troy Orgeron said the hotel, which hosted about 60 guests for five days, aims to make every visit feel like family — a point that resonated with the team.

WDAM 7 & Jones College honored Top of Class 2025 by recognizing Mt. Olive High School’s valedictorian Maci Hull, who will study psychology at Southern Miss, and salutatorian Colby Nguyen, who will major in veterinary medicine at Mississippi State University.

Richton High School’s top students, valedictorian Josie Walley, now inducted into the Richton Hall of Fame, and salutatorian Mallory Henderson, president of the Beta Club, will pursue education at Southern Miss and nursing at Pearl River Community College.

The Hattiesburg Fire Department is now fully staffed after eight new firefighters graduated from a 14‑week academy on Thursday, bringing the total to 135 firefighters—the largest team in department history.

Officials said some new members may begin shifts today to boost emergency response.

Governor Tate Reeves announced that Thomas Michael Reed from Hattiesburg is appointed as circuit judge for the 12th Circuit Court District, serving Forrest & Perry counties.

Reed, who currently serves as a Municipal Court Judge for Petal & Richton, will begin his term on July 1 to finish the remaining four-year term.

Governor Tate Reeves appointed Thomas Michael Reed to fill the judge vacancy for the 12th Circuit Court District covering Forrest and Perry County following Robert B.

Helfrich’s retirement—Reed, a longtime attorney and former city prosecutor, will start his term on July 1 to complete the remainder of a four-year term.

U.S. News & World Report named Gulfport the best place to live in Mississippi — Hattiesburg and Jackson follow in second and third — while lower living costs, small-town charm and access to nature make the state a top choice for those planning to move here.

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.

Whitney: Always Love You - FestivalSouth

7:30-9 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — $45/adult; $20/child — Celebrate the iconic voice of Whitney Houston with a night of her timeless hits and spectacular performances.

Star-Spangled Celebration on the River

6-10 p.m. — Chain Park — Free admission — Celebrate the Fourth of July with family-friendly activities, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Leaf River.