Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Jolene is an energetic 2.5-year-old retriever-lab mix — who has lived at Hub City Humane Society for over a year and a half — and she is now available for adoption at a reduced fee for families that enjoy walks and hikes.

William Carey University held its first Crusader Classic JROTC Drill Competition on Friday when over 120 cadets from eight counties competed under Brigadier General Mark Prine’s office—Lamar County, the only local program, finished second while Hancock County won first.

University of Southern Mississippi’s Union department will host its first-ever Esports Day Camps at the R.C.

Cook University Union on October 7 and October 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for students in grades 5 through 8 to learn competitive gaming and teamwork. Registration costs $99 per participant — early discounts of $89 are available until September 23 — and space is limited.

MDOT provided a progress report on infrastructure projects that will impact the Pine Belt area, outlining current work and upcoming steps for improvements.

The update details future plans meant to boost local transportation and other public works in the region.

Andre Hollis—the state parks director for MDWFP—has been named the 2025 recipient of the Canadian Bear Trap Award for his leadership in managing state parks.

He has worked with MDWFP for 28 years and is the second Mississippian to earn the honor in 40 years.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said the state set a new employment record in August—reporting the highest job numbers in its history.

CDC vaccine advisers met over the last two days as many local parents questioned the vaccine schedule and some chose their own timing; the panel recommended against giving the MMRV shot to children under 4 and suggested offering the chickenpox shot separately—while they decided not to change the Hepatitis B schedule.

Fancy Cat Cafe will open in Southaven near Thanksgiving at 5048 Getwell Road—intended to let guests sip coffee, enjoy a meal and relax with free-roaming cats.

Meanwhile, Cattiesburg Cafe in Hattiesburg at 5268 Old Highway 11 serves hot drinks and snacks on select days while visitors cuddle cats.

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.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise: Thanks For Coming Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — The Lawn at Lake Terrace — Ticket prices vary — Experience genre-defying music with Rainbow Kitten Surprise's electrifying performance.

47th C. Rodger Wilson Leadership Conference

8 AM – 12 PM — The University of Southern Mississippi — $25 confirmation fee — Engage in dynamic discussions and targeted workshops to enhance leadership skills.