Good morning, Jackson.

Local organizations in Anguilla and Hernando provided food aid after SNAP benefits were delayed by a federal government shutdown.

Boss Lady Economic Planning and West Oak Grove Church of Christ hosted food distributions that saw longer lines as many households sought assistance.

Veteran Otis Smith was gifted a new car on Thursday morning during Progressive Insurance’s 13th annual Keys to Progress vehicle giveaway event—this car is set to ease his transportation challenges after moving to Jackson.

The gift is expected to expand his employment opportunities and support his family—marking a fresh start for the veteran ahead of Veterans Day next week.

Great River Elders' Community Gardens is working to turn vacant land in Jackson into gardens that will provide fresh produce, jobs, and training as SNAP benefits end.

Partnering with Fresh Start Christian Church in Ward 2, the nonprofit is asking residents for donations and volunteer help—every dollar counts to plant and deliver food.

Three Jackson businesses closed or relocated this week.

Arby’s on High Street closed Friday while I-55 North PetSmart and T.J. Maxx moved to Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland—Councilman Ashby Foote said Jackson needs to find ways to keep its businesses.

Belhaven University is expanding its STEM research programs with over $572,600 in grants that allow undergraduates to work alongside faculty on projects—studies of nitrosamines and kinases—that were once available only at larger schools.

Mississippi lawmakers held a joint House and Senate hearing Thursday to review options for lowering the infant death rate and stressed the importance of better care for newborns and more education for parents.

Medical experts noted many deaths occur in the first day of life and proposed a coordinated plan for neonatal care — including a pilot program with state matching funds.

MDOT is closing several downtown streets for the National Folk Festival; the closures began November 6 at 10 p.m. and will end at 1 a.m. November 10—drivers are urged to slow down and follow alternate routes.

The FAA's flight reductions—starting Friday amid the government shutdown—have caused minor delays at Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport as connecting flights from other major hubs are affected.

Airport officials urge passengers to monitor flight statuses closely since the cuts will rise from 4% to 10% by next week.

Federal funds that support Mississippi libraries may be cut if the government shutdown continues.

Libraries risk losing key services like Hoopla, Talking Book Services and summer reading programs—resources that help many locals stay connected and learn.

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.

Mustache The Band Concert

9-10:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — $25.30 ADV | $30.45 DOS — Experience 90s country hits with Mustache The Band and enjoy giveaways of fun mustaches.