Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Mississippi contributed a letter from Gov. Tate Reeves and four commemorative brass coins (music, aeronautics, fishing and literary history) for the America 250 time capsule.

The capsule will be buried tomorrow at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia and opened in 2276.

Mississippi Mud Monsters plan to celebrate America250 this Independence Day weekend at Trustmark Park.

Fans can enjoy a powdered wig race on Thursday and fireworks on Friday and Saturday plus family activities like bounce houses, free parking, and a chance to sign a giant Declaration of Independence.

The Mississippi Press Association honored Clarion Ledger and Hattiesburg American for outstanding journalism at a ceremony in Biloxi on July 2.

Clarion Ledger journalists won awards in six categories while Hattiesburg American received top honors for design and news packages.

Hattiesburg and Petal hosted the Star-Spangled Celebration to mark America’s 250th birthday, featuring live music, food trucks, and community pride downtown.

Local residents and businesses enjoyed an evening of unity and festivity.

A new Mississippi law will raise teacher and teacher assistant pay by $2,000 next school year.

The Mississippi Association of Educators said rising insurance and living costs may offset the boost.

Many offices adjust schedules for the Independence Day weekend—post offices deliver mail today but close Saturday while UPS and FedEx operate today then pause on Saturday; banks may also close, so plan ahead if you need to complete transactions.

Health professionals advise Hattiesburg residents on measures to prevent West Nile Virus after Hancock County reported its first human case in 2026 — recommendations include removing standing water, wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, and using insect repellent.

Retired Southern Miss baseball coach Scott Berry will be inducted into the ABCA Hall of Fame on Jan.

8 at the 83rd annual ABCA Convention. He led his team to 528 wins and nine NCAA Tournament appearances during his 14-season career.

The William Carey Athletic Department won the SSAC Commissioner’s Cup for the 10th year — including wins in both the women’s and men’s divisions and 13 conference titles for the 2025-2026 season.

Athletic Director Tracy English was honored as the SSAC Athletic Director of the Year.

Hub City Classic Car & Bike Show

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Center at Forrest County — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of custom cars, bikes, and community culture all in one exciting location.

Writing and Publishing High-Impact Research Manuscripts

8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Lake Terrace Convention Center — Free entry — Enhance your biomedical writing skills with expert guidance from Dr. Papasian.

Disney's Frozen - The Musical

7-10 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the magic of Frozen brought to life on stage.

The Molly Ringwalds Live

8-11 p.m. — Brewsky's — Tickets starting at $19.25 — Experience an electrifying tribute to 80s music with dazzling visuals and captivating performances.

Disney's Frozen - The Musical

7-10 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an enchanting performance of the beloved musical based on Disney's animated classic.