Good morning, Jackson.

Marcus Taylor has spent 10 years in prison for a drug offense even though his sentence should have ended five years ago—Mississippi courts ruled his extra time was a mistake but denied him relief due to a missed filing deadline, and his lawyer along with his family are pressing for a rehearing that could be reviewed by the Mississippi Supreme Court.

Civil rights leader Medgar Evers was assassinated on June 12, 1963, and his daughter, Reena Evers-Everette, visited an exhibit at the Two Mississippi Museums to honor his legacy — highlighting his enduring impact on equality.

The Medgar and Myrlie Evers Institute will host a centennial celebration from June 26 through 29 — marking his 100th birthday and encouraging continued progress in Jackson.

Sen. Wicker and education board member Mary Werner urged the Board of Education to keep the U.S. History assessment required for high school graduation so that students are better prepared for voting — they explained that the test helps measure historical knowledge and informs curriculum improvements. Their appeal comes as the board considers ending the exam, a move they argue would lessen students’ civic readiness.

Gov. Tate Reeves announced on Thursday a statewide AI Talent Accelerator Program that gives $9.1 million in grants to boost artificial intelligence training at local colleges (including funds for Alcorn State, Jackson State, Millsaps, Ole Miss, and Tougaloo) to support Amazon Web Services expansion. The public-private program partners Accelerate MS, the Mississippi Development Authority, and AWS to build stronger tech courses.

Councilman Ashby Foote won a third full term on Jackson City Council with 1,739 votes (an 8-vote margin over his closest competitor) and will focus on fixing roads, fighting blight and keeping the city safe.

He said today he looks forward to working with mayor-elect Sen. John Horhn to move the city forward.

Jackson installed ten new electric vehicle chargers in parking lots including Union Station, Thalia Mara Hall and the Hood Building, with additional stations at Hinds Community College and the Mississippi Children’s Museum.

The chargers—funded by Entergy’s Environmental Initiatives Fund and installed by Adopt a Charger and Lavalle Electric with Tesla’s donation of a Universal Connector—are free to use until further notice.

Mississippi AG Innovations Center (MAGIC)

3-7 p.m. — 2548 Livingston Rd — Cost info not provided — Discover innovative agriculture techniques and engage hands-on in modern farming practices.

Youth Drumline and Bucket Drumming Experience Camp

5-7 p.m. — Jackson Medical Mall — Refunds available — Two-week percussion camp for youth to enhance rhythm and coordination skills.

Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund Workshop

3-8 p.m. — 2148 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS — Free entry — Enhance your grant writing skills and learn about conservation funding opportunities.

Mississippi Comic Con

3-8 p.m. — Mississippi Trade Mart — Affordable entry — Explore a vibrant comic convention featuring legendary guests and numerous vendors.

Independence Showdown: Battle of the Bands

4-9 p.m. — Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium — Refunds up to 7 days before event — The Nation's most exciting summertime band event showcasing the best in marching bands.

Mississippi Comic Con - Day 2

11 AM – 4 PM — Mississippi Trade Mart — Tickets start at $118 — Dive into a world of comics and pop culture at this exciting convention.

The Cleverlys Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets available — Experience a unique blend of comedy and music with The Cleverlys who deliver a night full of laughs and melodies.

Ratchet Bingo Bash

8-11 p.m. — Hilton Jackson — Prizes for winners — The craziest bingo party to hit Mississippi with singing, dancing, and games.

BGBB Kid's Red Carpet Book Tour & Literacy Festival

5-9 p.m. — Mississippi E-Center at Jackson State University — Family-friendly event — Celebrate literacy with interactive activities and discover diverse books.

Farm Bureau Watermelon Classic 5k Run/Walk

7:30-10 a.m. — Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum — Benefiting the museum — Participate in a fun and vibrant 5k event with a refreshing watermelon theme.