Good morning, Jackson.

The former Viola Lake house in Jackson was torn down yesterday to clear the way for the new William and Lillian Cooley Youth Entrepreneurship and Tech Center—which will offer training and leadership programs for local youth at an estimated cost of $3.5 million.

Community leaders said the nonprofit acquired the property after listening to residents—hoping to replace a blighted building with a resourceful hub.

Over the weekend, hundreds of Georgetown residents cleaned trash and debris from Sullens Street and Overstreet Avenue as part of the Clean JXN Gateway Beautification Day.

Michael Thomas and association president Norma Michael led the effort (the group has held six cleanups since reforming) to improve neighborhood conditions.

Local business owner Maati Jone Primm has been trying to buy 207 North Farish Street on Farish Street since September 2022 and has spent tens of thousands on proposals and delays with the Jackson Redevelopment Authority.

The board will review her proposal in November and she hopes to close on the building before year's end (renovations will add further cost due to historic district rules).

C-Spire hosted its third annual Bytes and Bites networking event Tuesday—hundreds of local business and IT leaders gathered to learn how to grow and adapt their companies—and company executives highlighted artificial intelligence as a tool to boost efficiency.

Maati Jone Primm, owner of Marshall’s Music and Bookstore, has struggled for three years to buy 207 North Farish Street on Farish Street and spent tens of thousands on proposals and required renovations for the historic property.

The Jackson Redevelopment Authority will vote on her proposal in November, and she hopes to close before year end.

Cattle farmers worry after the president suggested importing more Argentinian beef—fearing the move may lower local prices and harm their market.

A new report from SmartAsset based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2024 survey showed that millennials in Jackson earned 13.5% less than the overall median household income, reflecting local job market challenges—while the study of 357 large cities found millennials nationally earned 8.8% more than the median. The report highlights that Jackson is among roughly 10% of cities where younger workers face a negative income premium.

Former Millsaps College professor James Bowley lost his job after canceling a class with an email saying he needed time to mourn and process what he called a 'racist fascist country' following the 2024 election.

He is suing the college for breach of contract and a violation of academic freedom — two grievance committees recommended his reinstatement, but the Board of Trustees upheld his dismissal.

On Tuesday, August 26, the Jackson City Council approved a deal that lets Flowood and Pearl annex Jackson-owned land bordering the airport — ending a seven-year lawsuit and leading to future local development.

Jackson will keep thousands of acres surrounding the airport and benefit from upcoming lease agreements.

In Mississippi, Medicaid covers expensive weight loss drugs but very few enrollees have used them due to national drug shortages and a strict approval process.

The state spent $12 million in the first 15 months and future federal funding cuts may further limit access.

Industry leaders spoke Monday before Jackson's Housing Task Force about challenges facing apartment owners, citing increased panhandling that deters potential tenants and rising costs from higher interest rates, insurance premiums, and maintenance expenses.

They urged the mayor’s office to fast-track a new panhandling permit ordinance—warning that financial pressures are driving local investors out of the market.

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.

The Pinot Project Wine Dinner

6-8 p.m. — Amerigo Italian Restaurant — Price not specified — Indulge in a delightful four-course dinner paired with exquisite wines from The Pinot Project.

Victory Mississippi Kickoff Championship 2025

7:00 a.m. — 1207 Mississippi St, Jackson, MS — Cost info not specified — Witness the excitement of the Victory Mississippi Kickoff Championship cheerleading competition.

YFN Lucci & Friends Concert

11 PM - 4 AM — 105 E Pascagoula St, Jackson, MS — Tickets required — Experience a night of dope music and unforgettable performances with YFN Lucci and his friends.