Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg Zoo introduced its new hyena cub on Jul.

21, and the animal was given an adventurous name that reflects its playful spirit. Zoo officials say the cub is expected to charm local visitors soon.

The Hattiesburg Zoo has named its six-week-old spotted hyena cub Tukio, with his name meaning adventure in Swahili, as he joins the Species Survival Program.

He will stay at the zoo for about two years before moving on to join a breeding pair.

William Carey University displays the collection of Clarence Dickinson, a pioneering organist who balanced concert performances with weekly church ministry — featuring rare hymnals including a handwritten My Country ‘Tis of Thee from 1895.

Scholars use the archive to study the roots of American church music.

WCU is presenting the Clarence Dickinson collection that highlights America’s church music roots — the exhibit features historic recordings and documents that show the deep ties between faith traditions and local culture.

Mississippi Department of Education has switched from prepaid debit cards to ClassWallet for classroom supply purchases, giving teachers early fund access while adding pre-approval steps that limit vendor choices.

Educators and local vendors in Lee County say the change creates growing pains — a busy transition for the state system.

Students and teachers returned to class yesterday for the new school year in the Petal School District— Petal High hosted its annual senior convoy as part of a 50-year celebration while introducing new parking areas and American Sign Language courses to enhance learning.

NOAA forecasts a below-normal hurricane season with three to six hurricanes and one to three major events (as Tropical Storm Bertha moves along the Gulf coast); local officials advise residents to review emergency plans as the season runs until Nov.

30.

Forecasters say Tropical Storm Bertha will continue moving west as it brings 2 to 4 inches of rain with isolated amounts up to 8 inches—raising flood risks to southern Mississippi.

Residents should monitor local weather updates as the storm affects nearby areas in the coming days.

Former state Sen. John Polk, who served District 44 for 14 years and retired in 2025, died at 77.

Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann shared the news on Facebook.

Mississippi Today and Goat Rodeo have launched 'Black Box,' a narrative podcast that examines Mississippi’s opioid crisis and honors over 10,000 victims — featuring recovery advocate James Moore, who hosted his tribute event in Hattiesburg in April.

The series gives voice to community stories of loss and recovery.

Local athletic trainers and paramedics brushed up on their sideline medical skills ahead of the 2026 football season during a training session in Hattiesburg.

The session focused on improving response techniques and player safety.

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.

Greg Warren Live Comedy Show

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Get ready for a night filled with laughter from the comedian Greg Warren.