Good morning, Jackson.

Volunteers gathered Saturday along McDowell Road to clear litter and boost community pride as part of Jackson's cleanup+recycling efforts.

Officials said similar events will continue throughout the year to encourage ongoing neighborhood improvement.

Three business groups merged to form the Mississippi Business Alliance—combining the Economic Council, Manufacturers Association, and Political Education Committee to give a unified voice for policy and economic issues.

The change began on Jan. 1 and will support Mississippi’s business community going forward.

Survivors Jamecca Jones, who was shot by her estranged husband and now runs her salon and cookie business, and Ishaunna Gully, shot by her ex-boyfriend and working on her Masters while consulting on abuse, shared their stories to help others leave dangerous relationships — urging victims to get help before it is too late.

Tougaloo College hosted the first leg of the Mississippi for a Just World lecture series on October 29 with Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, a social justice activist who linked global oppression to local struggles.

The event drew over 350 registrants and nearly 200 attendees at the chapel (future speakers will be announced soon).

Governor Tate Reeves has issued an executive order (Executive Order 1589) to bring back the Presidential Fitness Test to Mississippi schools to boost physical activity among students.

The tests, which include a one-mile run, sit-ups, push-ups or pull-ups, and a sit-and-reach, will be given to elementary, middle, and high school students starting in the 2026-2027 school year.

Local schools in Hinds County and Pearl Public School districts are planning extra food help for students as SNAP funding may be cut tomorrow—by Saturday, benefits will end.

They are offering lunch discounts and advising parents to reapply for help if needed—schools are also considering a food drive with local partners.

Actress Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, a Tougaloo College alumna, received a key to the city of Jackson on Friday from Mayor John Horhn before the opening ceremony for a gathering of Black women artists—October 31 was named Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Day.

Many college students said they felt inspired by the event.

Mayor John Horhn announced an Emergency Food Security Response to help those facing a food crisis amid a federal shutdown — he formed a coalition with churches, food pantries and nonprofits and set aside $150,000 while urging stores and residents to donate nonperishable food items.

Today at the Jackson Medical Mall, the African American Male Wellness Agency hosted Black Men’s Wellness Day with free health screenings, music, and kids’ activities—aiming to raise awareness of health disparities and encourage early health checks.

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.