SUMMARY: In a studio segment, Jeremy Compton and Elliot Fackler from the Hattiesburg Zoo introduced Ayana, an African spur tortoise, as their animal ambassador. They explained that Ayana, who weighs 54 pounds, can grow over 200 pounds and live up to 100 years in captivity. The tortoise enjoys eating Romaine lettuce and Timothy hay. They discussed common misconceptions about tortoise shells being separate from their bodies, clarifying that the shell is part of the tortoise. Overall, the informative session highlighted the tortoise’s diet, lifespan, and anatomy while encouraging interaction with Ayana.

Our friends at the Hattiesburg Zoo are here to show off the African spurred tortoise!

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SUMMARY: The newly built M Avenue overpass has reopened, ending a 16-month detour for local commuters like Jennifer Northrup. While some residents celebrate the convenience, concerns arise about increased traffic and changes to the area’s small-town vibe, particularly with the anticipated opening of Bies, an anchor business. Matt and Annette McBride are excited as the bridge brings them closer to Bies, which they hope will attract more visitors. To support this development, Harrison County issued a $15 million bond and a $5 million TIF agreement for area improvements. Bies is now expected to open in late spring or early summer instead of December.

The Menge Avenue overpass reopened Monday afternoon after being closed for 16 months.

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SUMMARY: Memorial Hospital has introduced a new complimentary valet service to address its parking shortage. Launched last week, the service has been well-received, averaging 80-90 cars daily. Patients can drop off their cars at the main entrance, where the valet parks them across the street. When ready, patients return their claim ticket, and the valet retrieves the car. The hospital partnered with Park Inc. for logistics, and the service, which operates Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., aims to alleviate parking issues and enhance the patient experience. Plans are in place to increase usage to over 200 cars per day.

A new valet service is available at Memorial, making getting into the hospital a little easier. For more Local News from WLOX: …

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