Good morning, Jackson.

Ryan Christopher Hopkins was convicted by a Hinds County jury of first-degree murder and conspiracy in the brutal death of Celeste McDonald and was sentenced to life in prison + 20 years.

On May 15, 1970, law enforcement opened fire on the Jackson State University campus—killing two Black students, Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and James Earl Green—amid claims that the students fired first.

The Brandon Amphitheater will host its 100th live concert this Saturday as Treaty Oak Revival is set to perform at 7:30 p.m.—the venue, which opened in 2018, has drawn over 85,000 fans annually and is projected to generate more than $100 million in economic activity during its first ten years. This milestone highlights its growing role as a key stop for major artists and community events in Brandon.

The Mississippi Department of Education reported that 25,399 third graders passed the initial reading test — a record pass rate of 77.3% achieved this spring.

Of the 32,839 students who took the test, those who did not pass are given up to two retest opportunities — a measure aimed at boosting early literacy.

At a Rankin County Board meeting on May 15, citizens led by Reverend Ava Harvey called for Supervisor Steve Gaines to resign after making remarks many labeled racist.

His comments—linking a $2.5 million settlement to police abuse in 2023—sparked anger and deepened distrust in county leadership.

St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy opened in Jackson on May 14 to give free medications and wellness lessons to low-income patients (a 'pharmacy of last resort') and is run by volunteers in partnership with St. Dominic Health and Stewpot Community Services.

The charity pharmacy uses donated funds to buy generic drugs and will accept referrals from clinics, doctors, and emergency rooms (its third site after Hattiesburg and Biloxi) to meet ongoing needs.

On Wednesday, the Brandon Bulldogs completed a series sweep of Oak Grove by winning 13-1 and advanced to the Class 7A State Championship — they will face Madison Central next week at Trustmark Park.

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.

Our Rebellious Hearts Film Screening

7-8:30 p.m. — Fondren Guitars By Patrick — Food truck available — Explore culture and creativity with a film screening and Q&A session.

Mustache The Band Live in Jackson

8-9:30 p.m. — Fondren Yard — Tickets available — Experience the energetic 90s Country Party Band that brings your favorite hits to life.

Jarekus Singleton Band Live Performance

10 PM – 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — Ticket prices vary — Experience electrifying blues by a rising star who blends modern sounds with tradition.

On-Site Tour of Peach Tree Village

9 AM - 7 PM — Peach Tree Village — Free entry — Explore the best in senior living services and dining options.

Cathead Jam Music Festival

5:00-6:30 p.m. — Cathead Distillery — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy performances by moe., STRFKR, and more while supporting music education in Mississippi.

Mississippi Housing Expo 2025

10 AM - 5 PM — Mississippi Trade Mart — Free entry — Discover the latest housing trends, meet industry experts, and enjoy exciting giveaways.