Good morning, Jackson.

Barriers placed around Metrocenter Mall blocked entrances to Life Changers Community Fellowship Church on Wednesday evening, causing anger among parishioners when they arrived for Bible study.

Pastor Anthony Ratliff said he demanded the barricades be removed before Sunday and that the city is reviewing the permit used—hoping for a quick resolution between the church and the mall owner.

WLBT News was recognized by The Green Eyeshade Awards for excellence in journalism, winning first in explanatory reporting with '3 On Your Side Investigates: Never Notified' and first in video public service journalism with 'Absolutely horrifying': AMR response times worse following 3OYS investigation — a win that shows its strong leadership in media — and it also placed third in investigative reporting with 'Gaslit' against competition from several southern states.

Jackson police swept through Chapel Ridge Apartments on Thursday after community complaints about unsafe conditions, criminal activity and illegal squatting — issuing 30-day warnings to tenants without leases — as city leaders noted that only about 20 legal residents remained and plan further steps to restore safety.

On July 10, authorities pulled a body from the Pearl River near Gallatin Street after several hours of recovery—by July 18, fingerprints confirmed the victim as 28-year-old Michael Miller, though his cause of death remains unknown as he was believed to have been in the water for several days.

Jackson Police are investigating shootings at Forest Park Apartments (Forest Avenue) after tenants reported hearing 20 to 30 shots last weekend, and patrols have been increased while bullet casings are being tested; no arrests or injuries have been reported.

UMMC pediatric experts advised parents to vaccinate children against pertussis as cases rose statewide and nationally.

They reported 80 cases as of July 10 and warned that infants may suffer serious complications from the highly contagious illness.

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.

Jim Belushi Live

9 PM - 12 AM — Martin's Downtown — Refunds available up to 7 days before — Enjoy a night of blues with Jim Belushi and special guests.

Blues Old Stand Live

10 PM – 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — Refunds available up to 7 days prior — Experience electrifying blues and rock from renowned band Blues Old Stand.

Yot Club Live Performance

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets available — Experience daydreamy Polaroid-pop with Yot Club's fresh sounds.

JXN MISS Bitcoin Monthly Meetup #42

5:15-6:45 p.m. — Fertile Ground Beer Co. — Free entry — Gather to discuss Bitcoin developments and share ideas in a friendly setting.

GrooveFest 2

7:15-10:15 p.m. — HIDEAWAY — Check for ticket prices — GrooveFest is a high-energy experience with dance tunes and smooth vocals, featuring an array of talented artists.