Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg Zoo announced that Sue Ellen, its 25-year-old reticulated giraffe—who suffered from osteoarthritis for about a year—died November 17 after humane euthanasia, and officials said daily giraffe feedings may be modified as her companions adjust to her loss.

Tyler Jackson has helped people living on the streets in Hattiesburg for nearly 20 years by stopping to talk and offer support during lunch breaks and after work.

He plans to launch his nonprofit Meet You There — which will connect the unhoused with essential services — to bring hope and assistance to the community.

Rouses Markets announced it will purchase 10 Winn-Dixie stores in Mississippi and Louisiana—its Hattiesburg location included.

The Hattiesburg store will be remodeled and reopen in 2026—new layouts and equipment are part of the plan.

A Pew Research Center study showed that Mississippi is the most religious state, with 61% of adults saying religion is very important, 54% attending church each month, 62% praying daily, and 74% having firm belief in God—based on a survey of nearly 37,000 U.S. adults.

The study found that half of Mississippi adults are highly religious by these measures.

More than 400 entrepreneurs, investors and politicians gathered at Accelerate, the conference hosted by Innovate Mississippi last week to celebrate the state’s startup talent.

Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and Innovate Executive Director Tony Jeff stressed the role of programs like CoBuilders in helping early startups + Innovate Mississippi will soon accept more pitches.

A health care provider said patients like Katina Rankin have the right to report negative hospital experiences so hospitals can learn to respond faster and communicate better.

The provider emphasized that improvements in response times and care quality will guide future changes in Mississippi hospitals.

Coach Sam Purcell previewed Mississippi State women's basketball ahead of their upcoming game at Texas Tech—he expects the team to rely on strong teamwork and skill to secure a win.

The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame announced the nominees for the 2025 C Spire Conerly Trophy, headlined by Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (marking 30 years).

The trophy will be presented on Tuesday, December 2 (in Jackson).

USM quarterback Braylon Braxton was named one of nine finalists for the Conerly Trophy after throwing for 2,187 yards and 19 touchdowns while leading the Golden Eagles to a seven-win streak—he missed last week's game with a knee injury and his status for the upcoming game remains uncertain.

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.