Good morning, Jackson.

Zoo officials and volunteers gathered on Tuesday at the Jackson Zoological Park flamingo exhibit to display new signs bought with funds raised by the Zoo Area Progressive Partnership—officials said the signs will soon be installed to improve visitor experience.

The group is now planning to fund a secure outdoor space to help safely breed flamingos.

Locals in Jackson are calling for the demolition of the former Virginia College building on Ridgewood Road because it has been vacant and vandalized by squatters since its closure in December 2018.

State officials said the state still owns the property until Hinds County certifies it for a tax sale—leaving its future unresolved.

Registration is underway for the Salvation Army Angel Tree program that helps families in Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties receive a Christmas gift for a child up to 12 or an adult 65—applicants must register in person and show required documents by Friday.

African American heritage was honored at Mount Olive Cemetery Tuesday afternoon when dozens gathered on the JSU campus to attend guided tours and reenactments—performed by JSU student actors—that shared the stories of pioneers like charter member Jennie O.

Johnson.

Gospel music icon Twinkie Clark received the Key to the City at Jackson State University’s Rose E.

McCoy Auditorium as Mayor John Horhn recognized her lifelong contributions—her work as the leader of the Clark Sisters has earned multiple Grammy Awards. This honor highlights how her talent has shaped local Gospel music culture.

Mississippi Valley State University is increasing on-campus security for homecoming after recent shootings across the state—including a mass shooting in Leland that took six lives—by banning firearms, inspecting all entry points, and adding extra lighting.

Senate Minority Leader Derrick Simmons praised the plan and urged a coordinated statewide safety effort as campus tailgating ends at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Yesterday, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality held a 9 a.m. hearing in Jackson to reconsider its decision to deny Drax's request to expand its wood pellet production facility in Gloster.

Supporters stressed the economic benefits while opponents raised health concerns, and the board is expected to decide soon.

Attorney General Lynn Fitch launched a new campaign yesterday to fight fentanyl overdoses after releasing testimonial videos from families who lost loved ones, including Cal and Caroline Mayo.

Her office is distributing fentanyl prevention kits statewide — each kit contains test strips and a safe drug disposal bag to help recognize and respond to the drug’s dangers.

Three apartment complexes in Jackson that were set to lose water on October 21 are now safe after owners paid past-due amounts or arranged payment plans.

Interim manager Ted Henifin confirmed the change after concerns at a Jackson Housing Task Force meeting raised fears that 600 people might lose water.

The next phase of the Museum Trail Greenway in downtown Jackson will break ground Monday at 10 a.m. on Pearl Street + it will connect museums, neighborhoods, landmarks, and public spaces including Jackson State University as part of the Jackson Rising Strategic Plan.

Hangnail Ripoff Concert

8-10 p.m. — Hal & Mal's, Red Room — $10 — Enjoy a night of tunes featuring local artists while supporting the MS Animal Rescue Fund.

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra: Quad Fusion

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — $41.25 — Experience a genre-defying fusion of world music, classical, jazz, and blues from the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra.

Toast: Mimosa Festival

1-6 p.m. — The Plant — Tickets available on the website — Celebrate flavor and community at Jackson's inaugural mimosa festival with music, food, and curated cocktails.

Park After Dark

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Mississippi Children's Museum — $12 — Enjoy a spooky evening with games, crafts, and a costume parade at two award-winning museums.

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Old Capitol Museum — Tickets selling fast — Experience Halloween classics performed by the Listeso String Quartet under candlelight.

Jordy Searcy Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices not listed — Experience intimate storytelling through Jordy Searcy's journey of love and music.

The Arcadian Wild Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting blend of indie folk and pop from Nashville's The Arcadian Wild.

2025 Black Men's Wellness Day

7 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Jackson Medical Mall — Free services — Celebrate health and wellness with free screenings, entertainment, and activities for the whole family.

2025 Harvest Festival

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum — $10 for ages 3 and up — Experience live demonstrations showcasing Mississippi's agricultural heritage and enjoy rides for just $1 each.

Mistletoe Marketplace

5 PM – 5 PM — Mississippi Trade Mart — Cost varies — Explore a festive holiday shopping experience with local artisans and vendors.