The staff of The PineBelt NEWS is committed to bringing you timely and accurate reporting regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus).
Please see below for our latest updates and stories, and share this direct link, www.hubcityspokes.com/coronavirus, with anyone who may be interested in local coverage.
COVID-19 Updates - April 15, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
As of 6 p.m. Tuesday, there are 3,360 positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi and 122 deaths, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health.
In Forrest County, there are 122 positive cases along with two deaths and two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. In Lamar County, there are 48 cases with one death.
Since Monday:
• The state is reporting 273 new cases and 11 new deaths.
• There are eight new cases in Forrest County.
• There are two new cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 14, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.
GOVERNOR CLOSES SCHOOLS FOR REST OF ACADEMIC YEAR
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Tuesday that public school buildings will remain closed the rest of the semester to slow the spread of the new coronavirus, but he wants schools to continue distance-learning efforts.
COVID-19 Updates - April 14, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
As of 6 p.m. Monday, there are 3,087 positive COVID-19 cases cases in Mississippi and 111 deaths, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health.
In Forrest County, there are 114 positive cases along with two deaths and two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. In Lamar County, there are 46 cases with one death.
Since Sunday:
• The state is reporting 145 new cases and 13 new deaths.
• There are six new cases in Forrest County.
• There are eight new cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 13, 2020 at 10:15 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are now more than 100 positive COVID-19 cases in Forrest County, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health.
As of 6 p.m. Sunday, there are 105 cases in Forrest County along with two outbreaks in long-term care facilities and two deaths. In Lamar County, there are 38 cases with one death. There are 2,942 total cases in Mississippi with 98 deaths.
Since Saturday:
• The state is reporting 161 new cases and two new deaths.
• There are 10 new cases in Forrest County.
• There are six new cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 12, 2020 at 10:15 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
As of 6 p.m. Saturday, there are 2,781 positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi with 96 deaths.
In Forrest County, there are 95 cases with two deaths and two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. In Lamar County, there are 32 cases with one death.
Since Friday:
• The state is reporting 139 new cases and three new deaths.
• There are nine new cases in Forrest County.
• There is one new case in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 11, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
As of 6 p.m. Friday, there are 2,642 positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi with 93 deaths.
In Forrest County, there are 86 cases with two deaths and two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. In Lamar County, there are 31 cases with one death.
Since Thursday:
• The state is reporting 173 new cases and 11 new deaths.
• There are 10 new cases in Forrest County.
• There has been an additional outbreak in a long-term care facility in Forrest County.
• There are three new cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 10, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.
FORREST COUNTY ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER
Forrest County has followed suit with protocols issued by the City of Hattiesburg and Lamar County to help slow the spread of COVID-19, with two new executive orders requiring employees to wear masks and allowing pop-up food vendors in the county. Read the full story by clicking here.
FORREST GENERAL CONDUCTING IN-HOUSE TESTS
Forrest General has begun processing its own COVID-19 tests. The hospital received testing kits this week, which will allow health care personnel to process tests. They spent time earlier this week validating the process. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 10, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
As of 6 p.m. Thursday, there are 2,469 positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi with 82 deaths.
In Forrest County, there are 76 cases with two deaths and one outbreak in a long-term care facility. In Lamar County, there are 28 cases with one death.
Since April 1:
• The state has added 1,292 cases.
• Statewide, there have been 56 additional deaths.
• Forrest County has added 50 cases, an additional death and one outbreak in a long-term care facility.
• Lamar County has added 20 cases and experienced its first death.
COVID-19 Updates - April 9, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
NEW CITY EMPLOYEE CASES
Two more City of Hattiesburg employees have tested positive for COVID-19, according to a Thursday evening statement from city officials. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 9, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are now 2,260 positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi with 76 deaths. In Forrest County, there are 71 cases with two deaths and one outbreak in a long-term care facility. In Lamar County, there are 24 cases with one death.
COVID-19 Updates - April 8, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
MAYOR ISSUES NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER
Mayor Toby Barker has issued another executive order regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, this one stipulating that all employees of businesses in Hattiesburg - essential and non-essential - are required to wear a mask when working around the public or other employees. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 8, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
The number of COVID-19 cases in the state has surpassed 2,000, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health. There are now 2,003 positive cases in the state with 67 deaths.
In Forrest County, there are 59 cases with one death and one outbreak in a long-term care facility. In Lamar County, there are 19 cases with one death.
COVID-19 Updates - April 7, 2020 at 8:00 p.m.
CITY EMPLOYEE DIES OF COVID-19
A City of Hattiesburg employee has died from COVID-19, according to city officials. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 7, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
The first COVID-19 death has been reported in Lamar County by the Mississippi State Department of Health.
Lamar County now has 18 cases while Forrest County has 59 cases, one death and one outbreak in a long-term care facility.
There are 1,915 total cases of COVID-19 in the state with 59 deaths as of 6 p.m. Monday.
COVID-19 Updates - April 6, 2020 at 4:45 p.m.
The Mississippi State Department of Health issued new recommendations on Monday, including:
• Health care workers should wear a face covering, either manufactured or an appropriate cloth mask, throughout the workday.
• All Mississippi residents should wear locally produced non-medical grade masks or homemade cloth masks when leaving the home to perform essential functions.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 6, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
LAMAR SUPERVISORS ISSUE ORDER
To help ensure the health and safety of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lamar County Board of Supervisors has unanimously passed an emergency order - which includes fines or other punishments for violations - coinciding with the shelter-in-place order recently issued by Gov. Tate Reeves. Read the full story by clicking here.
PINE GROVE OFFERING SUPPORT LINE
Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services, located in Hattiesburg, is providing a free community support phone line for adults 18 years of age and older who are experiencing stress and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the full story by clicking here.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are 1,738 total cases of COVID-19 in the state with 51 deaths as of 6 p.m. Sunday. In Forrest County, there are 46 cases with one death and one outbreak in a long-term care facility. In Lamar County, there are 15 cases.
COVID-19 Updates - April 5, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, there are 1,638 total COVID-19 cases in the state with 43 total deaths as of 6 p.m. Saturday.
There are now 42 cases in Forrest County with one death and one long-term care facility with an outbreak. There are now 13 cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - April 4, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.
UPDATE ON FACE COVERINGS
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now advising Americans to wear a face covering when outside of their homes. The U.S. surgeon general recorded a tutorial on how to make such a covering out of household items, including scarves, bandanas or towels and rubber bands. View the video by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 3, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
STATEWIDE SHELTER-IN-PLACE ORDER IS EFFECTIVE TODAY
A statewide shelter-in-place order – issued by Gov. Tate Reeves Wednesday afternoon – goes into effect at 5 p.m. Friday.
Under the order, Mississippians are to stay home unless going out for essential services, to perform essential work or to participate in some forms of recreation. The order is in effect until 8 a.m. on Monday, April 20, unless rescinded, modified or extended.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 2, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are 1,177 total cases in the state with 26 total deaths. There are now 26 cases in Forrest County with one death and eight cases in Lamar County (up two from yesterday).
COVID-19 Updates - April 2, 2020 at 7:00 a.m.
FESTIVAL CANCELED
The Hattiesburg Concert Association, which presents FestivalSouth, announced Wednesday that the festival has been canceled and that all events have been moved to 2021.
However, online voting in the Best of the Pine Belt awards, which are sponsored by Signature Magazine, will continue.
Read the full story by clicking here.
BE AWARE OF SCAMMERS
Officials from the Forrest County Sheriff's Office are asking residents to be diligent in keeping themselves safe from the likes of scammers and hackers that may try to take advantage of individuals during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Read the full story by clicking here.
NEW STORIES
Pick up a copy of this week's The PineBelt NEWS for the latest stories. View the digital edition by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - April 1, 2020 at 6:15 p.m.
FORREST GENERAL DEATH
Forrest Health officials announced Wednesday evening the system’s first patient death due to the COVID-19 virus.
The elderly patient died Wednesday at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg.
“We want to express our deepest sympathy to the patient’s family during this time of loss,” said hospital officials in an emailed statement.
COVID-19 Updates - April 1, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.
GOVERNOR ISSUES STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
On Wednesday, Gov. Tate Reeves issued a stay-at-home order that will go into effect at 5 p.m. Friday.
All non-essential businesses are to stop all activities other than those necessary for minimum operations and enable employees to work from home.
Restaurants may stay open for drive-thru, curbside and delivery service, and people may leave their homes only to perform essential activities, such as caring for someone in the vulnerable population, getting food or necessary supplies or working for an essential business.
When outside of their homes, people must follow social distancing guidelines by maintaining a 6-foot distance from others and avoiding groups of 10 or more.
The order expires at 8 a.m. on April 20.
COVID-19 Updates - April 1, 2020 at 1:00 p.m.
Gov. Tate Reeves could issue a statewide shelter in place order as early as Wednesday afternoon, according to a report from Mississippi Today.
The governor’s decision is based in part on models showing Mississippi’s cases peaking near the end of April and early May, said the report.
Mississippi Today obtained parts of an email Dr. LouAnn Woodward, vice chancellor of the University of Mississippi Medical Center, sent Reeves early Wednesday.
In the email, she said, “Without a statewide ‘shelter in place’ starting very soon (which is proving effective elsewhere), our health system will be overwhelmed. The immediate time frame (right now) is our last inflection point in controlling COVID-19 spread in our state.”
Woodward also wrote that a statewide order “is the only additional thing we can do right now to decrease the force of the impact.”
At least 33 states have issued shelter in place orders. Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida issued such an order Wednesday afternoon.
COVID-19 Updates - April 1, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are 1,073 total cases in the state with 22 total deaths. There are now 27 cases in Forrest County (up six from yesterday) and six cases in Lamar County (up one from yesterday).
COVID-19 Updates - March 31, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
Effective immediately, the City of Lumberton has imposed a curfew, along with several restrictions at businesses and other establishments to help halt the spread of coronavirus in the community. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 31, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are 937 total cases in the state with 20 total deaths. There are now five cases in Lamar County (up one from yesterday) and 21 cases in Forrest County.
COVID-19 Updates - March 31, 2020 at 7:00 a.m.
USM COMMENCEMENT UPDATE
Commencement ceremonies at the University of Southern Mississippi have been tentatively rescheduled. These plans are subject to change pending future public health guidance.
Graduate students based on the Hattiesburg campus will graduate on Aug. 20, and undergraduate students based on the Hattiesburg campus will graduate on Aug. 21.
COVID-19 Updates - March 30, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
NEW STORIES
Over the weekend, the City of Hattiesburg’s administrative team learned that an employee in Public Works tested positive for COVID-19. Read the full story by clicking here.
Renovations to Cook Library at the University of Southern Mississippi have been halted after an employee of the subcontractor assigned to the project tested positive for COVID-19. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 30, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
The Mississippi State Department of Health reported a total of 847 cases of COVID-19 in the state with 16 deaths.
There are 21 cases in Forrest County and four cases in Lamar County.
COVID-19 Updates - March 30, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
ANIMAL SHELTER WAIVES ADOPTION FEES
Thanks to a generous donor, Southern Pines Animal Shelter in Hattiesburg has waived all adoption fees for available animals until April 27. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 29, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
There are 95 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of positive cases to 758. There have been 14 deaths from the virus.
In Forrest County, there are 19 cases; in Lamar County, there are four cases. No deaths have been reported from these counties.
COVID-19 Updates - March 28, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.
CURBSIDE TESTING
In response to the COVID-19 epidemic, Forrest General Hospital and Hattiesburg Clinic are now offering curbside testing for COVID-19. This testing will be provided through the Cough & Fever Clinic, located at the Cloverleaf Medical Plaza at 5909 U.S. 49 in Hattiesburg.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 28, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
On Saturday morning, the Mississippi State Department of Health reported 663 total cases of COVID-19 in the state. There have been 13 deaths from the virus.
There are 18 cases in Forrest County and four cases in Lamar County.
USM WAIVES GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS
In response to current restrictions created by the COVID-19 health crisis, the University of Southern Mississippi is temporarily waiving requirements for the Graduate Management Admission Test and the Graduate Records Examinations for all Graduate School applicants during the summer and fall 2020 admission periods. Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 27, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.
NEW STORY
Hattiesburg schools hold drive-thru lines for school supplies, materials: Read the full story by clicking here.
NEW CASES AND FATALITIES
The Mississippi State Department of Health reported 579 total COVID-19 cases Friday with eight total deaths. For a breakdown of cases and fatalities, click here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 26, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
RANKIN COUNTY DEATH
On Thursday, the Mississippi State Department of Health reported one new death from coronavirus in Mississippi, bringing the state total to six.
The case was a Rankin County male, 80-85 years old with underlying health conditions, who died while hospitalized.
COVID-19 Updates - March 26, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
NEW CASES
The Mississippi State Department of Health reported 108 new cases of COVID-19 in the state Thursday morning, bringing the state total up to 485.
There are 16 cases in Forrest County and four in Lamar County.
SMALL BIZ LOANS AVAILABLE
The Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Mississippi small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read the full story by clicking here.
LIBRARY CURBSIDE PICKUP
The Library of Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County is now offering curbside pickup for certain books.
Mobile bookshelves with fiction, nonfiction, young adult and children’s books have been set up near the front door of the Hattiesburg branch, which is located at 329 Hardy Street in downtown Hattiesburg. The shelves will be available from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 26, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.
STORIES FROM OUR THURSDAY EDITION
Local quilters sewing masks for health care workers: Read the full story by clicking here.
Forrest Co. supes give update on virus order: Read the full story by clicking here.
As virus rages, funeral homes adjust to a new way of doing business: Read the full story by clicking here.
Hattiesburg Convention Commission takes measures to continue revenue, help area restaurants in face of virus: Read the full story by clicking here.
Hattiesburg public schools providing breakfast, lunch for students during crisis: Read the full story by clicking here.
Supervisors hear update on PPE, approve wireless for county sites: Read the full story by clicking here.
Southern Miss students adjust to virtual classes following campus close: Read the full story by clicking here.
Local schools begin at-home learning and feeding plans for current closure: Read the full story by clicking here.
Hattiesburg Tourism Commission looks to weather economic loss at hotels caused by the coronavirus: Read the full story by clicking here.
Petal alderman-at-large special election pushed back to June 1: Read the full story by clicking here.
Food pantries, soup kitchens meet needs during crisis: Read the full story by clicking here.
PRCC UPDATE
Classes resume in an online format on Monday, March 30. College officials said Thursday that “PRCC has continuously invested in eLearning technology and training resources over the past several years” and Dr. Adam Breerwood, president, “feels the institution is more than prepared for the upcoming transition.”
According to a press release from the college, “alternative learning opportunities” are being explored for career and technical programs and lab-based courses.
“For certain programs, students will have to come together,” Breerwood said. “However, we will not be bringing the entire class in at one time. We plan to implement more of a hybrid approach where necessary while making sure students are in a safe, sanitized environment.”
Students living in college dormitories must complete a request form if they are in need of continued campus housing, and these wishes will be considered individually, according to the press release.
At this time, no offices will be open to the public, and essential personnel will be “taking care of day-to-day business in various offices with others working remotely.”
FORREST GENERAL HOTLINE
Forrest General Hospital has established a hot line telephone number for anyone calling with general questions regarding COVID-19 or other general questions related to visitors, symptoms, supplies and more. The hot line is staffed with nurses from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. seven days a week. The phone number is (601) 288-1111.
COVID-19 Updates - March 25, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
NEW STORIES
In keeping with guidelines, recommendations and regulations handed down by health and other local officials during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hattiesburg City Council has cut the number of its April meetings in half – from the usual four down to two – and will move those meetings from City Hall to a larger location. Read the full story by clicking here.
To assist Hattiesburg’s health care community, first responders and a general need for personal protective equipment, the City of Hattiesburg will host a mask drive-thru and drop-off event from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 26-28 at Jackie Dole Sherrill Community Center, 220 West Front St. in downtown Hattiesburg. Read the full story by clicking here.
NEW FATALITIES REPORTED
The Mississippi State Department of Health has reported two more coronavirus deaths in the state, bringing the total number of fatalities to five.
Four deaths have been reported Wednesday, including:
A Wilkinson County male, 85-90 years old with underlying conditions, who died while hospitalized.
A Tunica County female, 75-80 years old, who died in a long-term care facility.
A Webster County man, 65-70 years old with underlying health conditions, who died while hospitalized.
A Holmes County man, 60-65 years old with underlying health conditions, who died while hospitalized.
The first death was reported on March 19. That case was a Hancock County man, 60-65 years old with underlying health conditions, who died while hospitalized.
According to the Associated Press, testing remains so limited in the state that it's unclear whether the outbreak has caused other deaths without being identified as the reason.
As of Tuesday evening, there are at least 377 positive coronavirus cases in the state.
COVID-19 Updates - March 25, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
NEW CASES
The Mississippi State Department of Health reported 57 new positive coronavirus cases in the state Wednesday morning and one new death. The deceased is a male 60-65 years old from Holmes County with underlying health conditions. He died while hospitalized.
There are now 377 cases in the state with two deaths reported. There are two positive cases in Lamar County and 15 positive cases in Forrest County.
COVID-19 Updates - March 24, 2020 at 10:00 p.m.
NEW STORY
With the cases of COVID-19 in the local community almost tripling over a three-day period – rising from five presumptive positive cases to 14 in Forrest County as of Tuesday night – Mayor Toby Barker has issued another executive order that limits the number of customers at Hattiesburg businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies, and closes certain non-essential establishments until at least April 30.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 23, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.
NEW CASES
As of 6 p.m. Monday, there are 320 positive cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi, including two in Lamar County and 14 in Forrest County, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health. The state health department lab has tested 1,872 individuals for COVID-19.
COVID-19 Updates - March 23, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
NEW STORY
Following shortly behind similar declarations issued by officials in Forrest County and Hattiesburg, Petal Mayor Hal Marx has declared an emergency declaration restricting all city restaurants, bars and nightclubs to take-out, pickup or delivery only, along with restrictions for certain other establishments, until further notice.
On Monday, Marx issued Executive Order 2020-1 in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, heeding the advice of the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 23, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
NEW CASES
The first case of COVID-19 has been detected in Lamar County, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health. There are 42 new cases as of Monday morning, bringing the state's total number of positive cases to 249.
Forrest County has 11 cases.
COVID-19 Updates - March 22, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES
There are 67 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, including six new cases in Forrest County. The state now has 207 cases.
COVID-19 Updates - March 21, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.
NEW STORY
As of midnight March 21, all restaurants and bars throughout Forrest County are banned from offering any dine-in services, and are limited to providing only takeout, delivery, pickup or drive-through services as applicable until further notice.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 21, 2020 at 1:00 p.m.
NEW STORY
Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker issued an executive order Saturday that shuts down restaurant dining rooms, closes entertainment venues and restricts public gatherings to no more than 10 people.
The executive order, 2020-2, goes into effect at midnight.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 21, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
NEW CASES
The Mississippi State Department of Health reports 60 new cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi Saturday morning, including one new case in Forrest County. There are now 140 positive cases in Mississippi.
COVID-19 Updates - March 20, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Effective immediately, the Mississippi State Department of Health recommends that all restaurant and bars suspend dine-in service in order to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This decision is consistent with the social distancing principles from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and in line with actions taken by other states.
This recommendation is for the foreseeable future.
Restaurants may still offer carryout or delivery orders to their customers.
“This will in no way affect gas stations, pharmacies, grocery stores or food marts,” said State Health Officer Dr. Thomas E. Dobbs III.
Additionally, MSDH is recommending that Mississippi residents not attend funerals, weddings, church services or other community or social events with expected attendance of more than 10 people.
Currently, Mississippi has reported 80 positive cases of COVID-19 and one death. A significant increase in positive cases and additional deaths are expected.
COVID-19 Updates - March 20, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.
BLOOD DRIVE LOCATION CHANGE
Due to overwhelming response, Saturday's 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. blood drive, coordinated by Forrest General Hospital and Vitalant, has been moved to Lake Terrace Convention Center.
Donors can also give from noon until 6 p.m. on Sunday at the convention center.
COVID-19 Updates - March 20, 2020 at 3:15 p.m.
NEW STORY
In a special-called meeting Thursday, the Forrest County Board of Supervisors approved a number of restrictions on businesses within the county, mirroring a similar order issued Tuesday by Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker.
The board also approved a plan to add wireless internet to 14 county-owned sites, including community centers.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 20, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.
NEW CASES
On Friday morning, the Mississippi State Department of Health reported 30 new positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi, bringing the total number of cases to 80.
New cases were reported in Adams, Coahoma, DeSoto, Franklin, Hancock, Harrison, Hinds, Holmes, Humphreys, Jackson, Lafayette, Lawrence, Lee, LeFlore, Madison, Marshall, Monroe, Pike, Rankin, Tippah and Webster counties.
COVID-19 Updates - March 19, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.
FIRST COVID-19 DEATH IN MISSISSIPPI
The Mississippi State Department of Health has reported the first death from COVID-19 in Mississippi. The patient was a male, 60-65 years old, from Hancock County with chronic underlying conditions. He died in a Louisiana hospital.
COVID-19 Updates - March 19, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.
NEW STORY
With Gov. Tate Reeves’ recent order to close all public schools throughout Mississippi until April 17 to limit any chance of exposure to the coronavirus, local school officials have put together plans to ensure students still receive vital services, including online at-home learning and meal plans. Read our full story by clicking here.
PROCEDURES POSTPONED
The Mississippi State Department of Health has postponed all elective medical procedures and non-essential medical visits.
The restriction is due to a shortage of protective medical equipment, according to a release from the department.
Physicians, hospitals and medical centers “must defer elective surgical and diagnostic procedures until COVID-19 spread has diminished and the supply of protective medical equipment is restored.”
Physicians and providers should reschedule non-urgent medical appointments for a later date. Dentists must also delay routine dental procedures or non-emergency procedures.
COVID-19 Updates - March 19, 2020 at 2:15 p.m.
We are rounding up all schedule changes, including business and school closures and event cancellations, on this page.
COVID-19 Updates - March 19, 2020 at 1:15 p.m.
SACRED HEART SCHOOL UPDATE
Sacred Heart Catholic School will be physically closed through April 17, and schools are expected to reopen on April 20.
Teachers, staff and administrators will continue to work, and distance learning will be in place.
Spring break will be April 9-10 and the following week, April 13-17.
All activities will be canceled or delayed while the school is utilizing distance learning.
COVID-19 Updates - March 19, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
GOVERNOR CLOSES SCHOOLS
As the state reports 16 new COVID-19 cases, Gov. Tate Reeves has ordered all public schools to close until April 17.
NEW CASES
As of Thursday morning, there are now four cases of COVID-19 in Forrest County and 50 statewide.
The state health department announced there are 16 new cases and that 602 people have been tested.
COVID-19 Updates - March 18, 2020 at 9:00 p.m.
WALMART UPDATE
Walmart stores will operate from 7 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. daily beginning Thursday.
“Our associates will continue to have access to their regular scheduled shifts and full hours,” according to a press release.
The retailer will also host an hour-long senior shopping event every Tuesday for customers aged 60 and older. This will begin March 24 and continue through April 28.
Walmart stores will have limits for customers in certain categories including paper products, milk, eggs, cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, water, diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food.
Auto care centers will temporarily close.
COVID-19 Updates - March 18, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.
LOCAL SCHOOLS RESPOND
Petal School District will extend spring break to include March 23-27, and offices will close.
The Forrest County School District and Forrest County Agricultural High School will also extend spring break by one week, March 23-27.
The Lamar County School District previously extended the break through March 27. The district will reopen buildings for “limited staff” from 7 a.m. until noon on Monday, March 23, but “no one other than delivery staff will be allowed to enter the front door,” according to a Facebook post.
“Please do not come to our schools for information ... information will be distributed via email, phone calls and/or social media platforms,” said the post.
Sacred Heart Catholic School will be closed the week of March 23, but staff and teachers will work.
BLOOD DRIVES BEING HELD
The medical community is in critical need of blood donations, and there will be four chances to give blood beginning Friday, March 20.
Donors may give at the following dates, times and places:
• 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, March 20-21, at Forrest General Hospital in the Adeline parking lot adjacent to the hospital’s parking garage and water tower.
• 7 a.m. until noon on Monday, March 23, at The Orthopedic Institute, 27 Southern Pointe Parkway.
• 1-5 p.m. on Monday, March 23, at Pine Grove Behavioral Health and Addiction Services, 2255 Broadway Drive.
“The public is urged to get out and help the community by donating blood,” said a press release. “Tents will be set up with volunteers … if there is a wait, volunteers will take donors’ cell phone numbers and text them when it is their turn; this way, donors can wait in their vehicles until they receive a text.”
The blood drives are coordinated by Forrest General and Vitalant.
COVID-19 Updates - March 18, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.
THE GRAND THEATRE UPDATE
The Grand Theatre will temporarily close.
MERIT HEALTH WESLEY UPDATE
Merit Health Wesley is temperature screening patients, visitors and employees prior to entering the hospital as part of ongoing preparedness and their work to minimize unnecessary exposure to infectious or communicable diseases.
“Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 (or greater) will not be allowed to enter the hospital and will be redirected to another location for further screening,” said a statement from the hospital.
Access is controlled through doors in the emergency department, open 24 hours a day and seven days a week; the main lobby, open from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily; and the towers back entrance, open 6:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday-Friday.
People with fever or respiratory symptoms may not visit patients in the hospital. The hospital has limited visitors to one immediate family member, partner or significant other ages 18 and older per patient at any given time.
No person under age 18 may visit, and there are no visitors on the transitional care unit or the senior behavioral health unit.
COVID-19 Updates - March 18, 2020 at 9:15 a.m.
NEW COVID-19 CASES
There are 13 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of cases to 34.
The cases are in the following counties:
• Bolivar, 2
• Coahoma, 2
• Copiah, 2
• DeSoto, 1
• Forrest, 3
• Hancock, 2
• Harrison, 4
• Hinds, 6
• Jackson, 1
• Leflore, 4
• Madison, 1
• Monroe, 1
• Pearl River, 4
• Perry, 1
USM UPDATE
University of Southern Mississippi officials announced that commencement ceremonies will not be held in May.
“We are working as quickly as possible to identify an alternate date for the ceremonies, but it is unlikely they will be held prior to the latter part of the summer,” according to a statement released Tuesday evening.
The university remains open for “limited business operations and essential functions for students, including campus housing and dining services,” but public access for visitors is suspended. Students, faculty and staff should keep their university identification with them at all times.
COVID-19 Updates - March 18, 2020 at 8:00 a.m.
ANIMAL SHELTER SEEKS HELP
Southern Pines Animal Shelter is seeking temporary foster homes for both cats and dogs in order to “make space for incoming pets,” according to a press release.
“With many people making the responsible decision to slow the outbreak of the virus by staying at home, the shelter has seen a subsequent drop in local adoptions,” said the release. “However, the shelter is still receiving in need from contract cities and municipalities, putting an increased burden on the shelter’s resources and personnel.”
The shelter is offering curbside adoption services and meet-and-greets with animals eligible for foster homes and adoption. Through March 22, all adoption fees for cats and dogs are waived.
For more information, visit www.southernpinesanimalshelter.org.
BEDFORD CARE CENTERS UPDATE
Bedford Care Centers has restricted visitors to all centers until further notice.
Each center has been equipped with computers and iPads offering “alternative visitation opportunities including FaceTime and Skype.”
CLAY SHOOT RESCHEDULED
The 27th annual Si Robertson Sporting Clay Shoot, which benefits Homes of Hope for Children, has been rescheduled to May 21.
LAMAR COUNTY LIBRARIES
The Lamar County Library System is closed until further notice.
COVID-19 Updates - March 17, 2020 at 6:15 p.m.
To help protect the health of the community during the current COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor Toby Barker has issued an executive order that will limit the hours and services of Hattiesburg restaurants, bars and nightclubs – including closing earlier and limiting the number of customers – while still allowing those establishments to fulfill the needs of their patrons.
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 17, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BILOXI UPDATE
The Catholic Diocese of Biloxi, which includes the Hattiesburg area, announced that, starting Wednesday, all daily and Sunday public masses are temporarily canceled.
“However, churches will remain open with limited hours for parishioners and others who wish to pray and seek spiritual assistance,” according to a press release from Bishop Louis F. Kihneman III.
According to the release, all Catholics in the diocese are “dispensed from the obligation” of attending mass.
COVID-19 Updates - March 17, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.
HATTIESBURG CONVENTION COMMISSION UPDATES
Lake Terrace Convention Center has closed through April 3, and officials are working with clients “with planned large gatherings to determine the best way to address their events in light of current health advisories” and the building’s closure.
Hattiesburg Convention Commission and Area Development Partnership offices, which are located inside the building, will remain open, but building access is limited to these office spaces only.
The African American Military History Museum has closed until April 1.
The Saenger Theater has closed until mid-April.
PEARL RIVER COMMUNITY COLLEGE UPDATE
Pearl River Community College has extended spring beak to include the week of March 23-27, and academic classes will transition to an online format beginning March 30 for the remainder of the spring semester.
Students will receive further instructions via student email regarding the transition.
All on-campus events are canceled until April 30, and all services at child care facilities are discontinued until further notice.
All supervisors, administrative office personnel and department chairs should report to their offices at 8 a.m. on Monday, March 23 for further instructions. Faculty and staff will be notified by their respective department chair or supervisor for specific reporting instructions.
COVID-19 Updates - March 17, 2020 at 10:15 a.m.
NEW COVID-19 CASES IN MISSISSIPPI
The Mississippi State Department of Health reported nine new cases of COVID-19 in the state on Tuesday morning, bringing the total number of cases up to 21.
The cases are in the following counties:
• Copiah, 2
• Forrest, 3
• Hancock, 1
• Harrison, 1
• Hinds, 6
• Jackson, 1
• Leflore, 4
• Monroe, 1
• Pearl River, 2
The state is regularly updating its case by county chart. View the chart by clicking here.
POSTPONED GOLF TOURNAMENT
Hattiesburg Area Habitat for Humanity has postponed its third annual Habitat "FORE" Humanity Golf Tournament, originally scheduled for March 20.
"We will reschedule the tournament for some time in late May or June," said event organizers.
COVID-19 Updates - March 17, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.
DOLLAR GENERAL UPDATE
Dollar General Corporation will amend store hours and dedicate the first hour of each shopping day to senior shoppers, according to a press release from the company.
All stores “plan to close one hour earlier than current close times to allow employees to clean and re-stock store shelves.”
Additionally, the retailer “is strongly encouraging that the first hour of operations each day be dedicated solely for the shopping needs of senior customers, who are one of the groups most vulnerable to” COVID-19.
Other customers are “encouraging to plan their shopping trips around this window of time to allow the most susceptible customers in our communities the ability to shop during the first hour that stores are open.”
For a full list of stores and operating hours, click here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 8:00 p.m.
COUGH & FEVER CLINIC
In the face of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Forrest General Hospital and Hattiesburg Clinic are partnering to open a Cough & Fever Clinic to help stop the spread of the virus by reducing the number of symptomatic patients who visit a primary or urgent care facility.
Read the full story by clicking here.
FITNESS FACILITY UPDATES
Crunch Fitness in Hattiesburg and in Petal will remain open but all group fitness classes will be canceled from March 17-30.
Orangetheory Fitness, located in the District at Midtown in Hattiesburg, has closed.
The Hattiesburg and Petal Family YMCAs will limit programming beginning March 17. The canceled programming includes group exercise and water aerobics classes, swim lessons, Petal youth soccer, Han Mu Do, steam room and saunas, and towel service.
HATTIESBURG HALF MARATHON UPDATE
The Hattiesburg Half Marathon, 10K and 5K will become a “virtual run.”
“Since this run is a fundraiser, we are doing things a little different from the usual virtual run,” wrote Rhonda Hayden, race director, in an emailed statement. “We will not be giving out medals, t shirts, bib numbers … we will be collecting results from our participants and posting the virtual race results on our website. We will be giving prizes to the overall winners and the age group winners.”
The virtual run will benefit 14 charities located within the Pine Belt.
RESTAURANT UPDATES
Curbside service and delivery within 10 miles are available at Crescent City Grill and Ed’s Burger Joint, both located on Hardy Street in Hattiesburg.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.
RESTAURANT UPDATES
T-Bones Records & Cafe, located on Hardy Street in Hattiesburg, is offering curbside pickup for all online and call-in orders. A dine-in option is still available.
The Depot in downtown Hattiesburg is closing its indoor dining room “for the foreseeable future,” but the patio dining area will remain open. Take-out ordering is also available.
Zaxby’s, located on Hardy Street in Hattiesburg, is closing its dining room beginning March 17.
LIBRARY CLOSURE
The Library of Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County “will close until further notice,” according to their Facebook page.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
LAKE THOREAU OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Lake Thoreau Environmental Center, located at 150 Lake Thoreau Road in Hattiesburg, has postponed its annual Spring Plant Sale until the tentative date of May 9.
Additionally, due to spring break extensions and school closures, Lake Thoreau will be open every day of the week from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. for the remainder of March. The trails and lake will be open, but the main building will be closed; there will be access to restrooms and an outdoor handwashing station.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 4:30 p.m.
GOVERNOR SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDERS
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed a pair of executive orders responding to the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday afternoon.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.
WILLIAM CAREY UPDATE
Beginning March 23, all William Carey University classes will be delivered in an online format, according to a statement from Dr. Tommy King, president.
The statement, which was posted to the university’s Facebook page, said students “who have paid for housing and/or board will be allowed to live on campus and take meals in the cafeteria if they choose to do so.”
Special arrangements are being made for professional programs that involve clinical components, said the statement.
LIVE @ FIVE POSTPONED
Live @ Five has been "indefinitely" postponed. For future announcements, text LIVEATFIVE to 66599.
ARTS COUNCIL CANCELLATIONS
The Hattiesburg Arts Council has canceled the reception for the fine arts exhibit by William Baggett and Lynne Joddrell Baggett, originally scheduled for March 21. The council has also canceled the coffee talk set for March 24.
PRCC ATHLETICS
Pearl River Community College announced Monday that the NJCAA, the governing body of community college sports, has canceled all spring competitions. The cancellation includes practices and regular season, postseason and national championship play.
COVID-19 Updates - March 15, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.
The Hattiesburg Zoo will close at 4 p.m. on Monday and will not reopen until “at least March 31 in an effort to help stop the spread” of COVID-19, according to a statement.
“Animal care will continue through our professional zookeepers while they implement personal safety procedures that are continuously updated in accordance with the (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and industry standards,” said the statement.
The zoo will post behind-the-scenes videos of “ongoing animal care and training processes each day” on their social media pages.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.
EVENT CANCELLATIONS
The in-person drawing for the United Way of Southeast Mississippi $100K Payday, originally scheduled for Monday at Keg and Barrel, has been canceled. The drawing will instead be aired live on WDAM-TV and also on United Way's Facebook page.
The Lamar County Library System has temporarily suspended all programs, including story times, book clubs and any other scheduled events.
The Library of Hattiesburg, Petal and Forrest County has also temporarily suspended all programs, including story times, book clubs, outreach and Thursday Theater.
HattiesBARK Pet Parade & Block PAWty, originally scheduled for March 21, has been canceled.
"Bricks In The Wall: The Sight & Sound of Pink Floyd," originally scheduled for March 28 at the Saenger Theater, has been canceled.
The Purple Parrot Wine Festival, a fundraiser for Extra Table originally scheduled for April 3, has been canceled.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
FORREST COUNTY SHERIFF UPDATE
The Forrest County Sheriff’s Office is taking the appropriate precautions to best serve the public while protecting deputies, staff and inmates, according to Sheriff Charlie Sims.
Read the full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 11:15 a.m.
Two new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Mississippi, bringing the total number of presumptive positive cases in the state to 12.
There are three cases in Forrest County. Other cases include two in Copiah, one in Hancock, two in Hinds, one in Leflore, one in Monroe and two in Pearl River counties.
COVID-19 Updates - March 16, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.
BUSINESS UPDATES
• Brass Hat, located in the District at Midtown in Hattiesburg, is offering a “front door delivery” service. A dine-in option is still available.
• Chick-fil-A has temporarily closed dining room seating to “help limit person-to-person contact,” according to a release from their corporate office.
• Cotton Blues on U.S. 98 in Hattiesburg has temporarily limited its menu, but a dine-in option is still available. The restaurant will also provide in-person delivery.
• FIKA in downtown Hattiesburg is closed from March 16-22 “to aid in slowing the spread” of COVID-19. Owners said in a Facebook message they will re-evaluate the situation in a week.
• Fuzzy’s Taco Shop in the District at Midtown in Hattiesburg has added curbside pickup service “until further notice.” A dine-in option is still available.
• Mack’s West Catfish, Seafood, Steaks & More on U.S. 98 in Hattiesburg is offering delivery service within a seven-mile radius. A dine-in option is still available.
• The Crab House on Hardy Street in Hattiesburg is closed with no definite re-opening date.
• The Depot in downtown Hattiesburg is closing at 2 p.m. daily.
• The Porter in downtown Hattiesburg has added curbside pickup service. A dine-in option is still available.
• Twisted Skillet on U.S. 98 in Hattiesburg is offering delivery service to elderly customers and to those with pre-existing conditions. Back door pick-up is also available. A dine-in option is still available.
• Sully’s, which has locations in Hattiesburg and Petal, has added curbside pickup service. A dine-in option is still available.
Email news@hubcityspokes.com to add a business update.
COVID-19 Updates - March 15, 2020 at 8:00 p.m.
CDC UPDATE
On Sunday night, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended no gatherings of 50 or more people in the U.S. for the next eight weeks.
DAR TOUR CANCELED
The third annual “If Tombstones Could Talk” tour of Oaklawn Cemetery, hosted by the 20th Star Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and originally set for March 29, has been postponed.
COVID-19 Updates - March 15, 2020 at 4:30 p.m.
FORREST HEALTH UPDATE
Forrest Health officials are asking the public to “listen to the facts.”
“There are many rumors that only add to people being fearful and anxious,” according to a statement posted on the hospital’s website Sunday. “We are doing our best to provide the most up-to-date, factual information.”
Read our full story by clicking here.
COVID-19 Updates - March 15, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION UPDATE
In a special meeting on Sunday, the Mississippi Public Service Commission voted to temporarily suspend disconnections of certain utility services. This restriction will be in place for 60 days and applies to all water, sewer, electricity and gas services.
“This is a temporary suspension of disconnection,” said a statement. “Utility customers should continue to pay outstanding bills and pay for services provided during the 60 days.”
COVID-19 Updates - March 15, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
STATE UPDATE
There are now 10 total presumptive positive COVID-19 cases in Mississippi. Four new cases were reported today, including one in Copiah, one in Pearl River and two in Hinds counties.
COVID-19 Updates - March 14, 2020 at 9:00 p.m.
PRCC UPDATE
At this time, Pearl River Community College officials are not canceling classes.
A Saturday evening statement said the college, which is on spring break next week, will complete “a disinfection of the entire campus … as part of an action plan to prevent the spread of the virus.”
“These are uncharted waters,” said Dr. Adam Breerwood, the college’s president. “Each day new information changes the plan. There are many factors to consider when taking into account multiple levels of academic and career technical courses. We are doing our best to keep the community, employees and students informed.”
According to the statement, all information will be posted to the college’s social media websites and to www.prcc.edu/coronavirus.
WALMART UPDATE
Starting tomorrow, all Walmarts will change their hours to 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. until further notice.
"This will help ensure associates can clean and stock products,” according to a statement from the retail giant.
COVID-19 Updates - March 14, 2020 at 3:00 p.m.
LAMAR COUNTY SCHOOLS UPDATE
Following a statewide emergency declaration from Gov. Tate Reeves, the Lamar County School District has extended spring break, scheduled for next week, by an additional week. Students will return to school on Monday, March 30.
GOVERNOR ISSUES EMERGENCY DECLARATION
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves declared a statewide emergency Saturday afternoon.
The governor is urging schools to extend spring break by at least one week. He also asked churches to ca
