Good morning, Jackson.

Both chambers of the Legislature approved a bill that cuts income and grocery taxes while raising gas taxes.

The measure will gradually lower income tax rates for those earning over $10,000, reduce the grocery tax from 7% to 5% starting July 1, and increase the gas tax in stages from 18 cents to 21 cents on July 1 and then to 27 cents by July 1 — a move intended to manage fiscal liabilities and stabilize the public employees’ retirement system.

At the Mississippi Poor People’s Campaign forum on Wednesday night, Jackson mayoral candidates talked about poverty and how local minority contracting can help the city grow; candidate Marcus Wallace said the city should use its $334 million budget to invest in local businesses while others called for sharper changes. They also discussed raising wages and using special loan programs to keep money in Jackson—showing a need to support local workers.

Moody’s withdrew Jackson’s credit rating last summer because the city did not provide complete audited financial information.

The delay—especially with the 2023 audit still pending—may lead Jackson to face higher interest costs on new bonds as it works to finish the audit and restore its rating.

The Mississippi Senate honored the Callaway High School Lady Chargers Basketball Team on Thursday at the State Capitol after they won their first 6A State Championship earlier this month by beating West Jones 51-46 at the Mississippi Coliseum.

Jackson City Council also recognized the team for earning Jackson Public Schools' first basketball title since the Lanier boys won in 2021.

Patient Education Program on Multiple Sclerosis in Jackson, Mississippi

This educational program features Dr. Heidi Crayton, a board-certified neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis, offering insights based on the latest research and best practices for managing the condition.

2025 NASW-MS Chapter Annual Conference

8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — The Westin Jackson — Refunds up to 30 days before event — Mississippi's largest gathering of professional social workers.

Blue Widow Concert

8 PM - 12 AM | Urban Foxes | Ticket information available | Enjoy a night of live music with Blue Widow in Jackson.

Cardboard Cowboy Live Performance

10 PM – 1 AM | Martin's Downtown | Cost info not provided | Experience the unique Cosmic American Music blending various genres from blues to country.

Best of Senior Living Awards Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. | 4500 N State St, Jackson, MS | Free entry | Discover the award-winning senior living communities showcasing exceptional care and services.

Rita Brent Live

7-11 p.m. — 440jxn — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with award-winning comedian and musician Rita Brent, a Jackson native and military veteran.

2025 Jackson Indie Music Week ICON Awards

6-10 p.m. | 440jxn | $25 for General Admission, $250 for Reserved Table, $250 for VIP Booth | Celebrate the vanguards and trailblazers of Mississippi's independent music scene.

Brewzle's Cathead Distillery Takeover

5-8 p.m. — Cathead Distillery — $40 admission — Experience whiskey tasting, food trucks, and live music at this fun-filled distillery event.

Caimanes de Sinaloa Concert

9:00 PM - 12:30 AM — HIDEAWAY — $60.00 — Enjoy a vibrant performance by Caimanes de Sinaloa and Recio Sax in Jackson.

John Moreland Live

7:30-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets available — Experience the intimate and thought-provoking folk-rock sounds of John Moreland following his reflective year off.