Good morning, Jackson.

SNAP benefits have been suspended since Nov.

1 due to the federal shutdown, so several local groups are offering emergency food assistance in Jackson. Converge will host a pop-up providing infant formula and diapers at Jackson Medical Mall on Nov. 3 from 12 to 6 p.m. (while supplies last).

Actress Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor was awarded a key to the city by Mayor John Horhn at Tougaloo College on Friday, with many students watching the ceremony.

The city also named Oct. 31 'Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Day'—a move that highlighted her impact and ties to the community.

On Tuesday, a truck overturned along Interstate 59 (in a rural area) spilling crates labeled (live monkeys) into tall grass and search teams in masks and face shields began looking for the three missing monkeys while five of the 21 monkeys died, and Mississippi authorities have not released the driver’s name or owner details.

Jackson will host the 82nd Annual National Folk Festival from November 7-9, marking the first time the event is held in the Deep South and beginning a three-year residency with future festivals planned for 2026 and 2027.

More than 300 artists and performers will take the stages downtown while local agencies coordinate safety measures—this event is expected to boost the local economy and honor our rich musical heritage.

At Tougaloo College on October 29, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill spoke on how global oppression links with local struggles during the first session of Mississippi for a Just World, drawing over 350 registrations, nearly 200 attendees, and 100 student participants.

The lecture series was organized by Mississippi for a Just World in partnership with Tougaloo College and Black with No Chaser—aiming to foster conversations that connect international events with everyday challenges.

Jackson Public Schools is expanding its Supper Meal Program to help families facing financial challenges from the ongoing government shutdown.

The program will run Monday through Friday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at eight schools starting Monday, Nov 3—students receive free meals while adults pay $4.

Governor Tate Reeves issued an executive order to reinstate the Presidential Fitness Test in Mississippi schools for the 2026-2027 school year so that students can improve their physical fitness, and the test will measure activities like a one-mile run, sit-ups and push-ups+pull-ups.

Jackson State University released its 2023-2024 Education Achievement Council Report Card showing that 7,404 students enrolled, including 1,597 new undergraduates, and research funding increased to $63 million — over 76 percent came from federal sources.

The report tracks the university's progress toward statewide education goals.

On Halloween, clear skies kept temperatures rising to the upper 60s while trick or treaters experienced 50s after dark and later lows dropped to the low 40s.

Forecasts indicated that early next week Tuesday will warm to the 70s under mostly clear skies — continuing a quiet weather pattern across the area.

More than 331,000 Mississippians on the Affordable Care Act could see premiums jump about 37% if Congress does not extend the expanded tax credits before Jan.

1 (this may force many to lose affordable coverage or shift to jobs with benefits).

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.