Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Director Catherine Edmonson is expanding USM Gallery’s art programs by hosting student field trips, after-hours events and workshops, and launching a student exhibition that opens Oct.

13 at the Writing Center. The initiative strengthens campus and community connections.

The FAFSA is now open for college-bound students, and experts warn that state aid applications (MAAPP) may also be needed.

Families are urged to check college emails and the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid website for deadlines and requirements.

The Southern Miss Liberal Arts Building hosted the 12th annual Hub City Swing Speech and Debate Tournament from Oct.

2 to Oct. 4, bringing 16 southeastern teams together to compete in both speech and debate events as organized by the Southern Miss Speech and Debate Club and William Carey University.

International students at USM attended a Welcome to Hattiesburg luncheon on Saturday in downtown Hattiesburg, as iFriends + AIM hosted tours, refreshments, and chances to meet local families.

The event aimed to ease cultural transitions and help students build community ties.

Southern Miss will retire its longtime Wesley Foundation building as flooding and accessibility issues prompt a Space for Grace campaign — which has reached 63% of its $5.8 million goal — to build a new accessible facility set for completion in November 2027.

Tropical Storm Isaias is expected to grow into a hurricane and hit the Mississippi coast Friday evening, with heavy rain and strong winds forecast across the area (including Hattiesburg).

Emergency management officials urge residents to prepare now by securing supplies, charging devices, and clearing drainage areas.

An Oct. 5 executive order allows drivers to use untaxed dyed diesel amid high fuel prices while state officials consider pausing the 24-cent gas tax to reduce expenses.

Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson says leaders plan further actions to support commuters and trucking fleets.

Shelita Robinson, who works at Forrest General Cancer Center, is a breast cancer survivor who found her cancer early with tests and self-exams.

She shares her story to help others check themselves (including men) and get tested.

Mississippi Blood Services seeks 250 blood donations + 40 platelet donations daily at Flowood, Oxford, and via mobile units, as it faces a severe supply shortage and urges eligible donors to help hospitals meet demand.