Good morning, Hattiesburg.

After a massive fire destroyed her lifelong home last month, Hattiesburg resident Tinnia Jackson is working to rebuild and reached out to aid groups—including the Red Cross—for supplies while her family remains safe.

Retail stores including Walgreens + CVS will open on Christmas Day with shortened hours; local shoppers are advised to call nearby locations as times vary.

Amick Farms will invest $74.5 million to expand its Laurel poultry facility, boosting capacity from 800,000 to 1.1 million chickens per week and creating nearly 190 new jobs over the next three years.

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Mississippi, though possession of up to 30 grams gives a fine instead of jail.

Locals joining cousin walks during the holiday season must follow state rules—medical cannabis is available only with a prescription card.

Officials declared a public health emergency to lower high infant death rates, citing poverty and limited care.

The initiative expands prenatal and postpartum services in county health departments and supports families with crib donations — efforts aimed at saving more babies in the coming year.

Vitalant is hosting the Gift Worth Giving Holiday Blood Drive today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Belk entrance at Turtle Creek Mall to collect critical blood donations needed by 11 local hospitals & maintain the seasonal supply.

Health officials reported on Dec.

22 that whooping cough cases rose to a 16-year high of 139, mostly affecting children and infants, while flu-like illness rates stayed steady and RSV visits dropped + they urged residents to get vaccinated.

Hattiesburg Renaissance Festival

12:00 – 11:30 p.m. — SwitchYard — $15 – $20 — Experience the magic of medieval celebration with crafts, music, and festivities in the heart of Hattiesburg.

Vision Board Party: Vision and Vibes Social

12-3 a.m. — 101 Shadow Lake Dr, Hattiesburg, MS — Included with ticket — Connect with like-minded individuals while creating vision boards and enjoying poetry vibes and food.