Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Local experts addressed community fears about monkey sightings in Hattiesburg—officials are reviewing the reports and advising residents to report any unusual activity as the situation develops.

The Carr family was displaced after Tuesday night’s fire destroyed their home but everyone was safe—local groups and businesses set up donation drop-off spots at Fazzio’s Home to help as the family plans its next steps.

A Mississippi law firm visited Hawkins Elementary School on Thursday to teach students Halloween safety and offer reflective candy bags with safety tips using McGruff the Crime Dog—part of an annual tour reaching nearly 3,000 students across the state.

Students at Petal’s 3-D School are using theater to learn about bees in a program by the Mississippi Arts Commission.

Teaching artist Chris Espinosa XYZ leads the acting lessons—helping teachers and students blend drama with academics.

Governor Tate Reeves issued an executive order on Oct 30 to bring back the Presidential Fitness Test for elementary, middle and high school students across Mississippi.

The order directs State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney + State Superintendent Dr. Lance Evans to submit proposals by June 30 for launching the test during the 2026-27 school year.

USM has launched a new undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Religion and Law that teaches students critical thinking, clear writing and reading skills while studying subjects like ethics in artificial intelligence and healthcare — students choose a focus in Religion and World Cultures, Ethics or Philosophy and Law and can earn scholarships for their work. This program gives students a chance to build skills that are key for careers in law, education and public service.

Due to the federal shutdown that began Oct.

1, the Mississippi Department of Human Services announced that new SNAP benefits will not be issued in November unless federal guidance changes & 380,000 residents relying on food stamps could face delays while previous benefits remain available.

Hattiesburg Police say families should use flashlights and wear bright, reflective costumes during trick-or-treating from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Community leaders also told parents to check candy wrappers for tampering—helping keep kids safe on Halloween night.

Search teams are still looking for three lab monkeys on the run as local residents express worry about potential disease risks and animal safety.

Hattiesburg Zoo's Director of Wildlife Kristen Moore said the chance of disease spreading is low and urged anyone who sees a monkey—to call 911 immediately.

Janice Felder, a Southern Miss basketball legend and longtime coach in Magnolia, died on Wednesday after battling breast cancer—she scored 2,275 points and had her jersey retired, leaving a lasting mark on her community.

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.

Ballet Magnificat: Light Has Come

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket info unavailable — Experience a powerful dance retelling of the story of salvation from the angels' perspective.

Jeff Tweedy Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Tickets available starting July 18 — Experience the intimate sounds of Jeff Tweedy, a respected songwriter, as he performs solo and Wilco favorites.

CitiLimitz Concert

7-11 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Tickets available — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of CitiLimitz performing live music from their popular soundtrack.

Hobble Then Gobble 2025 5 Mile Run and 2 Mile Walk

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Lake Serene Clubhouse — Registration fee — Start your Thanksgiving with a run or walk to burn off some calories before feasting.

DJ D.Reau Concert

11 PM - 2 AM — Brewsky's — Ticket required — Dance to the beats of DJ D.Reau in Hattiesburg's lively atmosphere.