Good morning, Biloxi.

Coaches Heather Serpas and Hannah Sexton launched HS Spirit Support in late April to offer cheerleading services statewide—drawing on their extensive backgrounds in high school and collegiate cheer—with Serpas having led her team to five State Championships and three National Championships while Sexton cheered with the Saints Cheer Krewe.

On Thursday, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office announced that the state received nearly $6.5 million from a $720 million nationwide opioid settlement with eight drug makers—funds that will go into the Opioid Settlement Fund created in 2024.

Scott Coopwood retired from the state wildlife commission after 10 years of service; he led as chair for two terms and helped secure the 18,000-acre Phil Bryant Wildlife Management Area and establish the first outdoor stewardship trust fund (which invested $92 million) for public recreation. Earlier this month, Drew St. John replaced him on the commission.

Former state Rep. Nick Bain announced at a recent Independence Day event in Jacinto that he will run for office in 2027 after losing his Mississippi House seat by 26 votes in 2023.

He blamed his loss on backlash over his vote to change the state flag — noting strong criticism — and said he will ask voters to support his return.

State lawmakers from the house and senate met at Bacchus on the Bayou — a local Ocean Springs restaurant — today for their annual lunch event to gather input from residents, business leaders, and community members for the 2026 legislative session.

They discussed plans to invest in the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the state’s overall economic future, with new mayor Bobby Cox set to work with the coastal delegation on key projects.

Mississippi joined 11 other states by entering the FutureReady States program—an initiative led by Lumina that awarded $2.2 million to evaluate short-term credential programs and align training with local employer needs; AccelerateMS said the project would boost workforce training and opportunities in fields such as healthcare and advanced manufacturing.

Mississippi Blood Services is urgently calling on local residents to donate blood amid a critical shortage—donors may receive incentives to help maintain a stable supply for patients in need.

The organization aims to boost donations as the shortage continues to threaten health services.

Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Keesler Federal Park — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of Minor League Baseball action featuring rising stars and family-friendly entertainment.

Hardwired - A Metallica Tribute

7 PM - 12 AM — Ground Zero Blues Club & Restaurant Biloxi — Tickets available — Experience a thrilling Metallica tribute performance that captures the essence of live rock music.

Amanda Donald: George Strait Tribute Show

8 PM – 12 AM — Island View Casino Resort — Ticket information available — Enjoy a night of exceptional music with Amanda Donald paying homage to George Strait's hits.

12 Angry Jurors

Jul 24-27 — Biloxi Little Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a compelling drama as twelve jurors grapple with a young man's fate in a tight deliberation room.

Island Fights 90

8:00–9:30 p.m. — Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting night of competitive fights at this popular venue.

Mississippi Natural Hair Expo 2025

12 AM – 4 PM — Biloxi Civic Center — Cost info not verified — Explore workshops, connect with brands, and embrace natural beauty at this empowering expo.

The Chitlins with Jay B Elston Band

7-10 p.m. — Ground Zero Blues Club & Restaurant Biloxi — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of soulful music from The Chitlins and acclaimed guitarist Jay B Elston.

Biloxi Gift Show

9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center — Admission fee varies — Discover unique gifts and connect with creative exhibitors at the Biloxi Gift Show.