Good morning, Jackson.

Veteran journalist Emily Wagster Pettus joined Mississippi Today as senior editor today—she brings over 30 years of experience covering Mississippi and will mentor reporters while guiding editorial strategy.

She served as the AP’s Mississippi Capitol correspondent until January and was honored by the legislature in March—marking a significant milestone in her long journalism career.

Former Capitol Police officer Steven Frederick was released on bond in Hinds County Circuit Court after his indictment on a manslaughter charge linked to the September 2022 shooting that killed Jaylen Lewis near East Mayes Street — his bail was set at $100,000 and he was required to post a $10,000 first offender cash bond with a trial set for July 21.

The Jackson Police Department said officers responded to a call on March 15 near State Street and Culley Drive — finding Earl James Terrell seriously injured before he died — as surveillance footage showed a suspect fleeing on foot.

A mass shooting in downtown Jackson on March 22 left seven injured and one dead — police arrested two suspects as the investigation continues and community leaders call for stronger security measures.

Demolition began yesterday at the old Coca-Cola plant on Highway 80 in Jackson as an excavator tore through the building while city officials and Mayor Lumumba watched (cost estimated at about $150,000).

City planners will also tear down the old Gipson Grocery Store amid asbestos delays and plan 10 more demolitions to remove abandoned buildings.

Two men who were abused by former Rankin County deputies settled their civil suit with the county and Sheriff Bryan Bailey after a federal judge dismissed the case with prejudice on April 30.

The $2.5 million settlement will pay $2 million through the county’s insurance and $500,000 from the sheriff's department’s budget.

Brandon Bulldogs catcher Hannah Jo Sullivan was crowned the 7A Miss Softball winner at a recent MHSAA event—she is a Mississippi State commit who broke her single-season home run record of 12 while batting around .600.

Her coaches and teammates said she left a lasting mark on the program.

Santé South Wine & Food Festival

7:30-8:30 p.m. — St Andrew's Episcopal School — Ticketed event — Experience Mississippi's premier wine and culinary festival featuring over 120 wines and gourmet food samples.

Evening Worship Service at Twin Lakes

2-7:30 p.m. — Twin Lakes Camp and Conference Center — Dinner available — Experience a casual worship service in the beauty of nature.

Fourteenth Amendment: Out of Date or Right on Time?

Thursday, May 8, 5:30 - 6:30pm CT. Who is a Citizen? What is Due Process? This event is part of our ongoing series, “Exploring Citizenship and the American Dream Through the U.S. Constitution.” Whether you’re a civic leader, educator, or simply a curious citizen, your insights will enrich the conversation.

Framing the Red Live Performance

9 PM – 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying show with Southern Rock n Roll band Framing The Red.

Mississippi Makers Fest Featuring Colin Stough

10 AM – 9 PM — Two Mississippi Museums — Free admission — Celebrate the state's music and art with live performances and artisan activities.

Jurassic Quest

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Jackson Convention Complex Center — Ticketed event — Make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby Dinos.

Lions Spring Showcase

12:30 p.m. — Reimagine Prep Middle School — Free entry — Experience the vibrant performances of student clubs and teams showcasing their talents.

CMR 5K Hope Love Joy Fun Run

6-9 p.m. — Fertile Ground Beer Co. — Registration fee applies — Run or walk for a cause supporting children facing pediatric cancer with music, food, and local brews.

Rita Brent Comedy Show

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices not specified — Enjoy an evening of laughter with award-winning comedian and military veteran Rita Brent.

Rita Brent Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets available — Award-winning comedian and musician Rita Brent brings her talent home to Jackson, MS.