Good morning, Jackson.

Air travel is set to surge at Jackson-Evers International Airport for Memorial Day weekend with about 20,000 passengers expected (rising jet fuel prices could drive higher ticket costs), and airport officials urge travelers to check flight status and arrive early.

The Family Dollar at Cooper and Terry roads will close by end of May, worsening a growing food desert in South Jackson as residents note more grocery options are shutting down + families now must drive farther to find healthier choices.

McNair-Davis Planetarium in Jackson is installing new space exhibits including a scale model of Saturn and Jupiter as it prepares to reopen this fall.

The updates honor Ron McNair and create flexible event spaces for community gatherings.

The Mississippi Department of Education reported on May 21 that 75.6% of 31,887 third graders passed the spring reading exam (24,118 succeeded), a drop from last year’s 77.3% rate.

Jackson Public Schools celebrated a $10,000 donation from Eaton on May 20 that will help Callaway High School teachers buy STEM supplies; district officials said the funding supports learning in science, technology, engineering, and math and prepares students for future careers.

Mississippi released its Statewide AI Framework on May 21 to guide AI education from K-12 to career advancement in Jackson.

The framework details 11 skill domains and says that AI will strengthen human judgment rather than replace it (developed by the AI Workforce Readiness council).

Governor announced an AI framework for K–12 education and workforce training on Thursday, May 21 — a plan set to guide local schools and businesses in adapting to new technology.

Entergy Mississippi officials said power will be restored in about three hours on West Northside Dr after trees knocked down a pole near the Shell Station, as AT&T is replacing the pole before repairs begin for five affected customers.

Faith leaders and mental health professionals gathered in Jackson for the annual Mississippi Mental Health Faith-Based Summit.

Pastors learned practical ways & tools to support church members facing mental health concerns.

Mize defeated East Webster 3-0 in Game 1 of the 2A Baseball State Championship series at Trustmark Park on Thursday night.

The win brings them one game away from the school’s first state title since 2003, and Game 2 will start on Friday at 1 p.m.

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.

Ashley McBryde Live in Concert

7-9 p.m. — Thalia Mara Hall — Ticket pricing varies — Experience an evening with GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde showcasing her storytelling prowess and chart-topping hits.

The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery

6-9 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Jackson Downtown — $ — Engage in a hilarious interactive murder mystery dinner featuring a four-course meal.