Good morning, Jackson.

United Way of the Capital Area has launched a new fund to help local families with food, utilities, bills, and medication during the SNAP benefits pause.

The nonprofit will work with community agencies—such as Stewpot Community Services, the Mississippi Food Network—to connect people to essential services.

On Oct 28, a truck carrying research Rhesus monkeys overturned on Interstate 59 near Heidelberg, and three monkeys escaped as searchers in protective gear combed the fields—authorities warn locals not to approach the animals.

Authorities are investigating the crash and planning further steps to safely recapture the escaped primates.

Mississippi farmers discussed options at the Senate Agriculture Committee hearing to build a local soybean processing plant—aimed at using soymeal for livestock feed amid tariff challenges and shifting Chinese orders.

Other business news includes Gov. Reeves launching a nonprofit to boost the Gulf Coast defense industry, the Madison Board of Aldermen approving a $60 million mixed-use development, and Cadence Bank set to be acquired for $7.4 billion.

Mississippi officials are seeking new markets for soybeans as China has stopped buying the crop.

The state will work with local farmers to find alternative buyers in the coming weeks.

Mississippi politicians briefed hundreds of business leaders yesterday at the Mississippi Economic Council’s annual Hobnob at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson—while warning of challenges in agriculture, insurance and health care and announcing plans to merge local groups into the new Mississippi Business Alliance.

Jackson State University held listening sessions earlier this week where students, faculty, staff, and alumni shared ideas for the next president after the role has been vacant since May.

Participants said the leader must improve student housing, campus safety, and communication—ensuring the school rebuilds trust among its community.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency launched a Residential Safe Room Grant Lottery Program that offers qualifying homeowners up to $3,500 for FEMA-compliant safe rooms—applications are open today through Nov 30 with up to 38 grants available per county.

Applicants must own a primary, single-family residence to be eligible.

As daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov.

2, the American Red Cross urges Jackson residents to test and replace batteries in their smoke alarms because working alarms lower the chance of dying in a home fire by half—taking action now could help prevent a tragedy at home.

Children needing long-term specialized medical care now have a dedicated place after the Alyce G.

Clarke Center for Medically Fragile Children opened with a ribbon-cutting at the University of MS Medical Center on Ridgewood Road. The center is a 20-bed facility (20-bed) that welcomed its first patient on Wednesday and has a waiting list of 10-12 children (10-12) for extended care.

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.

12Ks for the Holidays 2025

7:30 AM — Cedars — Cost details not provided — The merriest race in town returns to Jackson for a festive 12K run.