Good morning, Hattiesburg.

University police said four USM students have been struck at the same West Fourth Street crosswalk since spring as driver inattention led to two hits last week—students gathered over 200 petition signatures urging more safety measures.

George Mabrey, a 55-year-old man wanted for a fatal multi-vehicle crash in Hattiesburg that killed two people in 2024, was arrested during a traffic stop in Palmer, Massachusetts—he was taken into custody without incident—and is held without bail while extradition begins.

A recent study by GoBankingRates shows that Mississippi’s middle-class income range starts at $41,999 for a two-adult household and rises for larger families.

Hattiesburg residents may see lower income thresholds compared to states like Maryland and Massachusetts — which require nearly $30,000 more annually—as the state’s low cost of living keeps expenses modest.

USM students are adjusting to the new semester as first-year student Robert Groff finds it easier to adapt than high school, while graduate student Kade Stevenson faces higher academic expectations.

USM offers academic and wellness services (TRIO, academic coaching, and counseling) to support students during this transition.

Hattiesburg officials set an 11 p.m. curfew for minors on July 9 to lower misbehavior—community leaders and teens now say that beyond safety measures, local youth need more support with safe spaces and programs to thrive.

Councilwoman Deborah Delgado noted that the curfew has sparked a discussion about the lack of effective youth services in the city.

Mississippi State Auditor Shad White announced Tuesday the launch of the Defend the ‘Sip Fellowship—designed for law graduates waiting for JAG military training to gain legal experience at the Office of the State Auditor.

The program partners with Mississippi College School of Law to fill the gap before these graduates begin their military duty.

Hattiesburg native Jeff Cook has been named CEO of Forrest Health as record growth drives rising patient demand—he said his top priority is expanding capacity and recruiting more physicians to support busy emergency and inpatient services.

The system is fast-tracking its Cancer Center expansion and adding new clinic space next summer while nursing numbers return to pre-COVID levels.

The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology released new blood pressure guidelines to help lower the risk of high blood pressure in Mississippi.

The guidelines advise residents to cut salt and alcohol, eat a heart-healthy diet, and exercise—steps meant to protect about 700K adults who had high blood pressure in 2023.

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.

James McMurtry Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of Texas music with James McMurtry and special guest BettySoo.

Shrek The Musical by Picayune Theatre Company

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience a full-scale musical adventure with Shrek and friends in this vibrant community production.

Shrek - The Musical

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience a larger-than-life fairytale adventure with a talented cast in this high-energy musical.

Hocus Pocus Movie Night Experience

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Special event price — Experience a magical night with costume contests and themed treats at this enchanting screening.

Taste Of The South Food Truck Festival

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Fairley's Wings & More — Free entry — Experience a delicious gathering of food trucks and live music showcasing the best flavors from the South.