Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Gable Roofing is making free roof repairs at Lighthouse Rescue Mission in Hattiesburg & the work will be complete by week’s end, fixing damaged ceilings at the women and children’s center.

Partnering with Lowe's and local groups, the repairs aim to create a safer space for families.

Mississippi residents receiving a misdelivered package should avoid opening it and contact the shipping company for return — federal law treats keeping such packages as mail theft.

They are advised to check the label and secure personal information to guard against scams during the busy holiday season.

Pine Belt Quilt Guild donated 67 handmade quilts Wednesday morning to local groups including Christian Services (Schaefer Center For Crisis Intervention, Domestic Abuse Family Shelter).

It has donated 297 quilts this year and invites the public to its monthly Community Sewing Day at University Baptist Church in Hattiesburg.

WDAM 7 and Jack’s Family Restaurant are hosting a coat drive—accepting new or gently used coats, mittens, beanies and thermals at four Jack’s locations—to support Christian Services, Inc. in Hattiesburg until Dec.

19.

Howard Industries and the Salvation Army in Laurel teamed up for this year’s Angel Tree program as the company adopted 190 children to receive gifts on Christmas morning + donated 500 food boxes filled with essential items from local partners.

The Hattiesburg Saenger Theater will host a 20th anniversary celebration for Napoleon Dynamite on March 14 with a film screening, live Q&A, comedy improv, game-show segments and audience participation.

Stars Jon Heder, Jon Gries + Efren Ramirez will attend and meet and greet tickets are available online.

On Wednesday night, the 75th annual Jaycees Christmas Parade (with the theme Battle of the Elves) brought Santa, his helpers, and local groups down Main Street, followed by the Christmas tree lighting in Town Square Park.

The parade marked an early start to Hattiesburg’s festive season.

A Niche ranking found that Alcorn State University (25% acceptance rate) is the most selective college in Mississippi, with other schools accepting between 35% and 58% of applicants; high school students seeking competitive options in local higher education may consider these rankings.

Glendale Utility District announced a boil-water notice for about 40 to 50 homes on Scenic Drive, Silverleaf Drive and Short Scenic after a broken water line disrupted service — residents must boil water before use.

Dr. Ritchie Sheridan from William Carey University explained that Seasonal Affective Disorder affects many Mississippians with symptoms such as fatigue and sadness as daylight declines.

He advised spending more time outdoors and seeking professional help if needed.

Southern Miss football saw head coach Charles Huff leave for Memphis on Dec.

8; interim coach Blake Anderson took over ahead of the New Orleans Bowl (Dec. 23 at Caesars Superdome) and expressed his desire to become the permanent coach as the team stays focused on winning its bowl game.

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.

Ragin' Cajuns at Golden Eagles Women's Basketball

7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Reed Green Coliseum — Cost info not available — Southern Miss faces off against Louisiana-Lafayette in a competitive Sun Belt matchup.

The Nutcracker by World Ballet Company

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Christmas with a stunning ballet performance featuring Tchaikovsky's beloved score.

World Ballet Company - The Nutcracker

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Tickets available — Experience a magical holiday classic with breathtaking performances and enchanting storytelling.