The following events are being held at various locations in Hattiesburg and present both interview and photo opportunities for the media. You may also want to include some of these in your community or entertainment calendars. For news media who may have questions about interviews or photo opportunities, contact the Office of University Communications at 601-266-4491.

TUESDAY, OCT. 27

School of Nursing sponsoring blood, bone marrow drives
WHEN: 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
WHERE: Room 119 in School of Nursing building
EVENT: Blood drive will be held in conjunction with United Blood Services. Bone marrow drive will be in conjunction with Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency. For information call 601-517-8358.

“Thriller” dance instructions set for Payne Center
WHEN: 7-9 p.m.
WHERE: Payne Center gym court
EVENT: Members of the Southern Miss Recreational Sports Department will teach the “Thriller” line dance. Also, a Michael Jackson dance-off contest. For information call 601-266-5405.

THURSDAY, OCT. 29

Wind Ensemble presents season-opening concert
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Bennett Auditorium
EVENT: Traditional band fare and contemporary works will be featured. For information call 601-266-6823.

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry hosts Medical Alumni Symposium
WHEN: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m..
WHERE: Thad Cochran Center
EVENT: Southern Miss graduates will discuss their professional experiences as part of the department’s 50th anniversary celebration. For information call 601-266-5910.

Student Activities Hub to hold grand opening
WHEN: 9 a.m.
WHERE: Site of former bookstore in Hub
EVENT: Ribbon-cutting, tours and entertainment as part of grand opening of new activities center. For information call 601-266-5486.

FRIDAY, OCT. 30

Roots N’ Shoots Haunted Trail offers surprises
WHEN: 4-7 p.m.
WHERE: Biological Sciences Learning Center, basement of Mississippi Hall
EVENT: Free to general public. Revised version of standard biology trail with unique, exciting and spooky twists. For information call 601-266-5910.

SATURDAY, OCT. 31

Making Strides for Cancer event planned
WHEN: 8 a.m.
WHERE: Pride Field
EVENT: A few hours of exercise, inspiration, camaraderie, entertainment and recognition of those affected by breast cancer. For more information call 601-266-5074.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities.  In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world.  Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu.