Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker and restaurateur Robert St. John were honored with the 2025 Hub Award Monday night for their community service—proceeds from the banquet will fund scholarships for local students.

Zella Bush, founder of Developing Family Resources, is set to open a family resource center on Front Street in Purvis soon—providing clothes, food, and free health classes each month with support from local donations.

Hattiesburg leaders have opened a new boat ramp along the Leaf River to boost outdoor recreation and public access — the $1M project was funded partly by the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Fund and the city’s One Percent Fund.

Officials said plans will add two pavilions and a credit card kayak rental kiosk next year to further improve the river corridor.

Nearly 5,000 drop-off locations now accept gift-filled shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child — a campaign by Samaritan’s Purse to provide supplies and toys to children in need.

The drive is part of National Collection Week, which runs from Nov. 17 through Nov. 23 and sees local Mississippi churches welcoming donations.

Jack's celebrates 65 years today by serving $1 burgers to loyal customers (marking a milestone for the local restaurant) in Hattiesburg.

Rouses Markets entered an agreement to acquire 10 stores from Southeastern Grocers, including a Hattiesburg location that will get a major remodel—upgrades to layouts, equipment, and design—after the transition, which is expected to finish early 2026.

During the changeover, Winn-Dixie stores will remain open and team members will join Rouses Markets to help ensure a smooth handover.

In spring, a record 77.3% of Mississippi third graders passed the initial reading test and 84.6% passed including retests, showing progress from last year—Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Act requires a passing score to move on to fourth grade.

The Hattiesburg Convention Commission honored Dr. Aubrey Lucas for 34 years of service that strengthened the city's cultural and economic attractions—board chair Jennifer Payne said his steady guidance has spurred growth in key projects across Hattiesburg.

The proclamation marks a milestone in recognizing his long-time leadership and commitment to local development.

Mississippi earned an F grade for preterm births in 2024 when 15% of babies were born too soon—the worst rate in the country—and experts blame chronic diseases and policy choices for this outcome.

State leaders are examining ways to improve care and reduce infant deaths as concerns grow over the state's health system.

Jones College's men's soccer team won 3 to 1 against St. Louis Community College on Monday and will face top-ranked Phoenix College today at 10:15 a.m. to vie for a spot in the NJCAA tournament semifinals — the victory eliminated St. Louis — as they advance in the tournament.

Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy from Oma ran for 300 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries as his team beat Mississippi State 49-27 on November 15.

His bright play follows a strong high school season and a successful freshman year—and it has many fans excited about his future.

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.

Do The Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — Grill and Grocery — Tickets required — Celebrate the festive season in your most outrageous holiday attire with games, contests, and a jolly good time.