Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Southern Pines Animal Shelter has used an $18,329.57 grant from the Orphan Kitten Club + transformed its facility into the Bitty Beans Nursery for kittens up to 8-weeks old in Hattiesburg.

United Way of the Pine Belt Region reached over 80% of its fall campaign goal through local donations and community events.

The organization will continue its fundraising efforts to support local residents.

Pine Belt thrift stores are busy as residents donate and shop ahead of the New Year.

Edwards Street Fellowship accepts donations that fund a food bank + medical clinic while Southern Pines Second Chance supports local animal shelter services, with peak thrifting expected next week.

Hattiesburg is preparing for its annual New Year's Eve downtown celebration tonight—neighbors will gather for family-friendly festivities and live entertainment to welcome the New Year.

Hattiesburg Zoo has set cold-weather protocols to protect its animals during lower temperatures and will resume Friday morning storytime sessions in January at its main facility.

A movie set for next year will portray mafia hitman Gregory Scarpa’s role with the FBI in solving the Dahmer case tied to events north of Hattiesburg.

Starring Mark Wahlberg, the film is based on a script that is being shown to distributors (local producers note its unique take).

Hattiesburg Zoo staff are preparing for cold weather by using a written protocol and equipment (infrared heaters and heated mats) to keep tropical birds and primates warm, while larger animals have access to both indoor and outdoor heating options so visitors can see more animals on sunny days.

Hattiesburg earned a perfect 100/100 score on its drinking water system inspection on Dec.

29—marking its seventh consecutive perfect rating under a detailed evaluation of technical, managerial and financial performance.

On Dec. 31, Hattiesburg post offices and select FedEx + UPS locations will operate during modified holiday hours while many banks may close early and regular mail won’t be delivered on Jan.

1. Residents should check local hours and plan transactions accordingly.

Mississippi will receive nearly $206 million in federal funding for rural health care in fiscal 2026 to boost services, modernize facilities, and expand its workforce (including telehealth and infrastructure upgrades).

The state's plan supports several initiatives to counter future Medicaid spending cuts.

USM football coach Blake Anderson announced his initial nine hires on Tuesday in Hattiesburg to build his 2026 staff by retaining five returning members and adding four newcomers, including Joe Bolden as defensive coordinator + Kyle Cefalo as offensive coordinator, with roles split between on-field and off-field responsibilities.

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.