Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Kids Hub Advocacy Center opened a new—expanded facility in Hattiesburg to offer more services and support to local children and families.

The center now has extra space to better meet community needs.

Hub City Humane Society is urging local residents to keep supporting its animal care programs—asking for donations and volunteer help so it can rescue and rehome more pets.

The Hattiesburg American has announced a partnership with Perplexity, an AI search engine that will use our local news in its Comet browser answers.

The deal will bring new revenue to support our newsroom and ensure that users get facts from trusted local reporting + voices from our community.

Mississippi’s dyslexia therapy scholarship lets families use state funds for tuition at approved special-purpose schools—helping students with dyslexia from kindergarten through 12th grade access necessary support.

The program, which helped Darlene Bush’s daughter improve her reading skills, is also fueling debate on expanding school choice to serve more areas.

Meteor showers brighten Mississippi skies now through the fall—Orionids have been visible since Oct.2 and will continue until Nov.7, Southern Taurids peak on Oct.14, and Northern Taurids will start on Oct.20; stargazers can visit dark-sky areas like Bienville National Forest for a clear view. Best observation times are after midnight when the sky is darkest.

The Mississippi Department of Disabled American Veterans began its mid-winter training conference in Hattiesburg on Wednesday night to train service officers and offer networking opportunities as part of its first state meeting in the city—local DAV Chapter 62 is celebrating its fifth anniversary today at the Train Depot.

Historian Derrion Arrington explained that Rep. Robert Clark’s fight for Medicaid in 1967 still guides debates over health care in Mississippi—state leaders now face tough choices after recent federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP funding.

His early push to help vulnerable citizens reminds us that the fight for fair health care is not over.

The Washington State Cougars are flying 2,000 miles to play Ole Miss in the Rebels’ homecoming game today— a trip that reflects major changes in college sports.

Ole Miss is favored by 32.5 points as both teams navigate a reshaped schedule following the Pac-12 split.

Southern Miss football has turned around under first-year coach Charles Huff after winning more games than in the last two seasons—making the team two wins away from bowl eligibility with six games left this season.

Coach Huff’s methods have boosted both offense and defense, with the team now leading the Sun Belt in sacks and interceptions.

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.