Good morning, Biloxi.

The Hibernia Irish Society kicked off its 2027 St. Patrick season Thursday night in Biloxi by announcing Ken Mustered as grand marshal, Linda Litke as Colleen + Leo Taranto as St. Patrick.

The honorees will represent the society at events including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ocean Springs.

Mississippi Senate Bill 2103 changes public school attendance by allowing 5 excused absences per semester plus requiring a doctor's note after 3 illness absences.

School districts will adopt the new policy by Nov. 1.

Keesler Air Force Base’s Mathies NCO Academy was named NCO Academy of the Year for its role in training future leaders + the honor underscores the academy’s commitment to excellence in military education.

Mississippi’s oyster reefs now hold nearly 400,000 sacks of oysters, up from 275,000 last year, after restoration work (236 acres were treated) in Pass Christian.

Oyster season will open October 1 as MDMR maintains daily harvest limits.

Agricultural Commissioner Andy Gipson issued an order on Sept.

20 that makes agricultural events, including state fair livestock shows, Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo, and 4H/FFA education activities, excused absences; sample letters for absence requests are available on the department website.