Good morning, Jackson.

Jackson Elks Lodge #192 recognized two local senior students for their outstanding roles in Scouting.

Johnia Hudson earned Girl Scout of the Year and Preston G. Smith was named Eagle Scout of the Year + both attend local schools.

Five people have been indicted on federal charges for their role in an organized drug trafficking scheme that distributed fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana in West Tennessee — charges stemming from a two-year investigation by the FBI, DEA, and local police and linking the criminals to the Sinaloa cartel.

Jackson State Community College will expand its Middle College program this fall, allowing eligible West Tennessee high school students to earn an associate degree before they graduate high school.

The college will host an open house Tuesday, May 13th from 5—7 p.m. at the Jackson campus to provide more details about the program.

House Bill 1325 passed both the House and Senate to create a $25 million farmland preservation fund that gives landowners a one-time incentive to protect their land from development—Governor Lee will now review the act for his signature.

The DEA, along with more than 4,400 law enforcement partners, will hold the 28th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jackson residents can use local drop-off sites to safely dispose of unused medications and help prevent drug misuse.

The Jackson Fire Department received a 1942 Seagrave ladder truck from the John R.

Long Sr. Memorial Fire Museum—the first ladder truck the department ever had—and a hand-pulled hose cart from the late 1800s restored by local firefighters in the early 1990s. The department is working to restore the antique truck to operation to honor its local firefighting history.

During a ceremony last Thursday, the Jackson Police Department swore in two new officers—Chandler McCurry is among the first graduates of its under-21 apprenticeship program.

With 207 sworn officers now on the force, the department will use the new recruits to boost community safety.

Dietitian Abbey Reiser launched the Tasting Notes campaign to share nutrition tips and recipes with cancer patients who face taste changes during treatment.

She urges patients to join social meals and ask for special food preparations when needed.

Jackson State Community College Athletics celebrated 10 student athletes signing with four-year colleges—softball players Elizabeth Vales, Emma McKenzie, Ashlyn Berkley, Mallory Woodward and Madelyn Cornelius, women's basketball players Bailey Morris and Kierstyn Beard, baseball players Garrett Lance and Gavin Alston and basketball player Jerry Taylor Jr. Athletic Director Kevin Lynum praised strong administrative support as a key factor in the athletes’ achievements.

Danny Gokey & Tasha Layton Concert

7-10 p.m. — Love & Truth Church — Hidden fees not included — Experience uplifting performances by Danny Gokey and Tasha Layton in a community-friendly venue.

Spring Career Expo

10 AM – 2 PM — Carl Perkins Civic Center — Free — Explore hundreds of job opportunities and meet potential employers in a professional setting.

But Why? Showing and Panel Discussion

6-10 p.m. — Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center — Tickets not listed — Engage with original cast members and special guests exploring light and hope amidst darkness.

Bee Fest 5K and Craft Fair

10 AM – 3 PM — Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park — Supports the Honeybee Project — Enjoy crafts and educational activities alongside a virtual 5K.

Stacy Mitchhart Live Concert

7 p.m. – 1 a.m. — Jackson's AMP at the Market — Bring your own chairs and coolers — Experience a night of sensational tunes from a globally recognized artist.

Children's Business Fair

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Jackson Careers and Technology Middle School — Free entry — A creative space for kids to showcase their entrepreneurial spirit.

NAACP 62nd Freedom Fund Banquet

Tickets are $80 per person- VIP Tickets are $20 per person.