Good morning, Jackson.

Local letter carriers in Pearl are collecting non-perishable food items today for the 34-year 'Stamp Out Hunger' drive to support the Mississippi Food Network amid government cuts.

After a tornado outbreak left many with little, the Salvation Army is deploying its Emergency Disaster Services team & mobile canteen unit to provide meals, drinks, snacks and comfort to survivors in Jackson; additional details are available online or by calling 601-982-4881.

Crews are finishing setup for the free Mississippi Makers Fest today outside the Two Mississippi Museums downtown.

The festival will offer over 60 artisan vendors, food trucks and live performances by The Band Perry and local musicians, operating rain or shine.

Diesel prices climbed this week in Mississippi, pushing fill-up costs from around $600 to over $1,000 and leaving truck drivers reporting challenges in hauling freight - uncertainty over load planning grows as fuel expenses rise.

TVA is awarding $350,000 to 12 Mississippi schools through its School Uplift program, a year-long effort to cut energy waste and lower power bills by an average of 10% using funds based on each school's performance + needs.

A cyber-attack on Canvas disrupted classes across Mississippi and led Mississippi State University to postpone exams from Friday to Saturday as faculty downloaded course materials — an online group threatened data leaks unless contacted by May 12.

Jackson State University officials recently showcased progress at the McAllister-Whiteside Residential Complex, which will reopen by fall 2027 for over 300 female students.

The project received about $25 million from the Legislature to create a modern suite-style living space + ease housing shortages on campus.

Latest market data shows Jackson home values surged 32% amid shifts in the metro real estate market (experts say the rise reflects stronger buyer demand and low inventory).

Local buyers and sellers are advised to watch market trends as conditions evolve.

Jackson home values increased 32.4% over the past year, the largest jump in the metro according to research from RedFin and Zillow (many homes still sell below the state median).

Local agents say improvements and neighborhood efforts signal new opportunities for sellers and buyers.

In Friday night's game, Petal scored five runs in the third inning to win 10-7 over Brandon and take a 1-0 series lead in the 7A South State Championship; Game 2 is scheduled for today at 7 p.m. at Petal.

Mississippi EMS Gala

6-10 p.m. — Ice House — Fundraiser event — Celebrate and honor EMS professionals in Mississippi with an evening of food, drinks, and music.

Laughter & Blues

7:00-11:59 p.m. — Hal & Mal's — Tickets available at the venue — Enjoy a vibrant blend of live blues music and comedy in a celebration of community and laughter.

Anberlin Concert

7-10 p.m. — Hal & Mal's — Tickets start at $93 — Anberlin brings their unforgettable live experience to Jackson for one night only.

The Throne Room: ABIDE

6 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Jackson Downtown — Free entry — Experience a prophetic gathering aimed at deepening your faith and intimacy with God's presence.

2026 Cathead Jam - Friday

3:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Ticketed event — Celebrate music while supporting education programs in Mississippi's underserved communities.