Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Petal native Blake Burt stars in the Netflix series BOOTS, a military drama set in the 1990s that follows a Marine’s journey from finding his own strength to inspiring others—he said his path from the school choir to the big screen shows kids in the Pine Belt that small-town dreams can go big.

Culinary arts students at Petal High School open their student-run Tasteworks Cafe today for teachers only, giving them real restaurant experience.

The program is funded by a grant from the Petal Education Foundation—teaching students cooking, serving, and management skills.

Six months ago, Lamar County Library System lost big federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and hundreds more in state funds, leaving the Hoopla service nearly unfunded—Lumberton and Purvis stepped in with donations while county officials urge federal partners to restore support for free programs.

Hattiesburg's Loblolly Bakery is selling queen cakes for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with $5 from each cake going to the Pink Ribbon Fund to help pay for patients' medical expenses.

The cakes, a twist on the classic king cake and shaped like an awareness ribbon, are available until October 31 + the bakery aims to sell 5,000 by then.

Hattiesburg Eye Clinic Ophthalmologist Dr. Sarah Queck warned that cosmetic contacts, makeup and glitter can cause infections, allergic reactions and even blindness if not carefully used — she advised parents to help children with safe eye practices and to seek prompt care for any injury to avoid lasting damage.

Hattiesburg and Jim Hill played a competitive high school game—highlights showed key plays and standout moments from both teams, with the recap posted on October 9.

Fans saw how both sides fought hard for every point.

Thursday night, Southern Miss beat Georgia Southern 38-35 in the first modern-era meeting between the teams—Braylon Braxton passed for 237 yards and two touchdowns and Jeffery Pittman rushed for two scores as the Golden Eagles held off a late rally.

The NCAA approved a 15-day transfer portal window for college football players that will open January 2nd–16th starting in 2026.

The policy gives extra days for players in the national championship and for those at schools with a new head coach.

Southern Miss overcame a fourth-quarter rally by Georgia Southern to secure a 38—35 win last night.

The close game marked a significant turnaround for the team.

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.

Reed Timmer Meet and Greet

7:30-9 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Cost not listed — Post Show Meet and Greet with Reed Timmer includes a photo op and Team Dominator sticker.