Good morning, Jackson.

An apartment building being renovated on Sykes Park Drive in south Jackson went up in flames early Friday morning just after 2 a.m. — the vacant units were completely destroyed — and firefighters contained the blaze while investigators probed the cause, with no injuries reported.

A federal judge denied a motion to dismiss one bribery charge against former Canton city engineer Rudy Warnock and his alleged co-conspirator Cleveland Anderson, who face multiple charges from an alleged scheme in Canton—trial is set to begin Monday.

Mississippi State University’s Space Cowboys won first place in the 30K Commercial Off-The-Shelf solid motor challenge at the International Rocket Engineering Competition in Midland, Texas in June.

Their rocket Helios reached 28,639 feet—marking the team’s second category win in 10 years—and they plan to design a new rocket for the 2026 competition.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released a revised draft environmental impact statement for a flood control plan along the Pearl River that shows adding three new levee segments will raise the cost by $200 to $250 million per alternative.

Public comments are being accepted until August 18 (a key step before federal funds can be used for construction), while public meetings begin on July 14.

Jackson Mayor John Horhn will attend his first city council meeting at Jackson City Hall on Tuesday, July 8 at 10 a.m. — he will address over 40 agenda items including electing council leaders, awarding contracts, and moving a natural gas line off the Jackson State University campus.

Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade visited Stewpot Community Services during the free lunch to explain three new state laws banning public camping, requiring panhandling permits, and speeding the removal of squatters.

He said his department will work with legal advisors—ensuring respectful enforcement—while community leaders debate the laws' impacts on those facing hardship.

Dozens ran and walked in the annual Watermelon Classic held Friday morning on Lakeland Drive near the Ag Museum in Jackson.

The race featured 5k and 1-mile options—awarding cash prizes and medals at the finish line in front of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame while raising funds for the museum.

SCC Summer Sizzler 2025

12 PM — Baptist Healthplex — Registration fees from $40 — Engage in a signature cycling event with multiple distance options and community support.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Ark — Limited spots available — Elevate your basketball game with intensive skill development in Jackson, MS.

37th Annual Mississippi Wildlife Extravaganza

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Clyde Muse Center — Admission info unavailable — Experience Mississippi’s oldest outdoor show with exhibits, activities, and entertainment for the whole family.

Neon Night

8-11:59 p.m. — Mississippi Children's Museum — Food & drinks included — Experience a vibrant night with glowing lights, electrifying music, and delicious snacks.

Becoming with Maximus Wright

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Tougaloo College — Free entry — Engage in a night of inspiration and growth as you explore personal transformations.

Jackson Mississippi ServiceNow User Group Interest Meeting

6-7 p.m. — C Spire Corporate — Free admission — Connect with fellow ServiceNow users to share knowledge and experiences in the industry.

Fiesta Friday Latin Dance Class

7-8:30 p.m. — Briarwood Arts Center — No entry fee — Spice up your Friday nights with exciting Latin dance moves and a festive atmosphere.

Dear Silas Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices vary — Experience the dynamic sounds of Dear Silas blending Hip Hop, R&B, Jazz, and Soul.