Good morning, Hattiesburg.

The Hattiesburg Zoo will hold its Wild Style Costume Party on October 11 to celebrate its 75th anniversary.

The event will feature a monster hunt, costume contest with local school mascots + a family parade and story time.

Roland Weeks, a retired publisher who led the Sun Herald for 33 years, died Saturday at 89.

He was a strong community leader—known for flying his plane to help deliver newspapers during storms and volunteering at the Salvation Army.

Local leaders, family and community members in Mount Olive unveiled a Country Music Trail Marker yesterday to honor the late Billy Ray Reynolds.

The marker is the 45th on the trail and was installed in partnership with Visit Mississippi — the ceremony featured musical performances and remarks.

USM held a ribbon cutting ceremony today—unveiling its renovated dining facility on campus and marking the space's return to service for students.

On October 6, 2025, Eagle Dining held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the $6.1 million renovation of The Fresh Food Company at USM—its new space now features sleek black-and-gold interiors and expanded menus for students.

USM officials said the upgrade gives a modern dining hall that better serves the campus community.

Rep. Sam Creekmore—House Public Health and Human Services chairman—said he will propose a law to require that cities and counties use opioid settlement money solely for mental health treatment and prevention.

He plans to include public reporting for spending as local governments are expected to receive nearly $48 million more over the next 15 years.

Mississippi lawmakers’ plans to redraw state Supreme Court districts are paused as a lower court ruled the current maps weaken Black voting strength—Attorney General Lynn Fitch appealed the ruling and the process now awaits review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

The appellate process is on hold until the federal court rules on redistricting cases that may change voting rights challenges.

From October 14th—17th, travelers can enroll or renew their TSA Pre-Check membership at Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport to skip long security lines.

Airport officials reported that only 38 of the 300 available spots are filled so far and approved applicants will pay a $76 fee for a five-year membership and receive a known traveler number in three to five days.

Ben Bush, a former U.S. Army Ranger from Brandon, shared his struggle with PTSD and explained how the plant-based psychedelic ibogaine helped him regain his life after he had to travel to Mexico for treatment because it is illegal here.

House Public Health Chairman Sam Creekmore plans for Mississippi to invest in testing ibogaine and push for federal approval to explore its potential to treat opioid addiction.

Mississippi State running back Fluff Bothwell was carted off the field after a leg injury late in the Texas A&M game.

Coach Jeff Lebby is expected to give an update today as Davon Booth may replace him if he misses more games.

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.

Hattiesburg Zoo Boo

6-9 p.m. — Hattiesburg Zoo — Ticket information not provided — Experience a glowing Halloween wonderland filled with dazzling lanterns and fun activities.

Day of the Dead Parade

3 PM — Rebekah Stark Johnson Community Arts Center — Free entry — Celebrate Mexican heritage with a vibrant parade featuring costumes, music, and community spirit.

Mississippi Esthetics and Spa Conference: 2nd Annual

10 AM – 5 PM — Thad Cochran Center — Pricing not mentioned — A day of education, hands-on training, and networking for estheticians and spa professionals.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket details available — Sing and dance along with Blippi and friends in this lively musical event for families.

Repertory Dance Company: Fall Evening of Dance

7:00 PM — Theatre and Dance Building — Free entry — Experience an unforgettable showcase of movement and expression by talented dancers.