Good morning, Biloxi.

The City of D’Iberville & first responders are asking for donations to help Coldwater residents hit by harsh winter weather.

Residents can drop off bottled water, blankets, toilet paper, and nonperishable food at the D’Iberville Fire Department on Lamey Bridge Road until Feb. 18.

Downtown festivities kick off today with two Mardi Gras parades starting at noon and 5:30 p.m. on Saturday along key routes; the Gulf Coast Carnival Association parade will follow Tuesday at 1 p.m. as city crews secure safe routes (using ropes, cones, and barricades) for attendees.

The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is accepting applications for its free 100-hour Oyster Aquaculture Training Program until March 6, offering hatchery training for oyster farmers.

A required info session is set for Feb 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the University of Southern Mississippi’s Marine Aquaculture Center in Ocean Springs.

Nearly 700 high school students attended MGCCC’s CTE event on Feb.

12 at the Harrison County Campus where over 50 programs in healthcare, engineering, culinary arts and more were showcased with interactive demos plus guidance from instructors.

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has issued a water contact advisory for Biloxi East Central Beach from St. Peter St. east to Dukate Street and Long Beach Beach from Oak Gardens eastward to Girard — swimmers are advised to avoid water contact until bacteria levels drop.

The Gulf Coast Winter Classics kicked off this week at the Harrison County Fairgrounds, hosting top riders and horses for a six-week hunter and jumper series through March 22.

Free admission is available for spectators as organizers spotlight the Grand Prix classes on Sundays.

Tab Benoit Concert

8-10 p.m. — Beach Boulevard — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful blues of Tab Benoit in a night of music and fun.

3rd Annual Soul Music Awards

3-7 p.m. — Ground Zero Blues Club & Restaurant Biloxi — Reserved seating recommended — Celebrate the best in soul music with live performances and industry honors.

George County vs Hernando

5-9 p.m. — Keesler Federal Park — Tickets from $28 — Experience the exciting Battle At The Beach showdown in Biloxi.

Ryan Foret & Foret Tradition Concert

7-10 p.m. — Ground Zero Blues Club & Restaurant Biloxi — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the legacy of Swamp Pop music with Ryan Foret and his band as they perform live.

Paws & People Community Festival and Volunteer Drive

9 AM – 4 PM — Barksdale Pavillon — Free Admission — Celebrate community and the joy therapy dogs bring with vendors, food, and prizes.