Good morning, Hattiesburg.

On Friday, Hattiesburg held a Pride Preview and a Welcome Back Festival while the Pocket Museum opened a new exhibit; today, residents can enjoy a murder mystery dinner and cocktails—along with CookieWu—to round out the local weekend events.

Thousands of college students returned to Hattiesburg for the fall semester, boosting local restaurants, shops, and businesses.

City leaders and business owners estimate these 26,000 students add a $404 million economic impact each year—helping the community thrive.

A report from the U.S. Department of Education shows Mississippi’s education agency did not ensure special education students received full services and failed to properly oversee district compliance—this oversight gap now risks the state's $145 million in federal special education funding. State officials say they are moving forward with fixes to address the issues within the coming months and year.

Princeton Review has named the University of Mississippi in Oxford one of the best colleges in the nation on its 2026 list, based on student surveys of academics and campus life—making it the only school in Mississippi to earn national honors.

The review also featured 390 other colleges while listing two Mississippi schools on a regional Best South list.

Jim Barksdale recalled leading Mississippi’s Hurricane Katrina recovery commission 20 years ago to coordinate federal and state funds to rebuild damaged homes, schools, and infrastructure along the Gulf Coast.

He said his quick actions—working closely with local government and experts—brought hope and progress to communities hit hard by the storm.

At Jackson State Media Day on Aug.

21, coach TC Taylor, quarterback JaCobian Morgan and defensive lineman Jeremiah Williams previewed the 2025 season by saying intense conditioning will help the Tigers manage the heat and rally fan support for a return to the Celebration Bowl and SWAC Championship. The team will open against Hampton on Aug. 30 at 2 p.m. CT and plans to host five home games, including one at M.M. Roberts Stadium in Hattiesburg — ticket sales are strong — as they aim for a national title.

Fredo Bang Live at Nostalgia for Southern Miss Season Opener

9 p.m. — Nostalgia Lounge & Bar — Tickets available online and at the door — Kick off the Southern Miss football season with a live performance from Louisiana’s own Fredo Bang.

Calvin Richardson Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Center at Forrest County — Tickets required — Experience the soulful sounds of Multi-Grammy Nominated artist Calvin Richardson as he performs his new hit single.

Best of Both Worlds Alumni Aftergame Party

9 PM-2 AM — The Bottling Company — General admission & VIP options — Celebrate the rivalry with a classy alumni gathering for JSU and USM fans.

Toad the Wet Sprocket with KT Tunstall

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt music from the beloved band Toad the Wet Sprocket and the dynamic KT Tunstall.