Campus Life: Mississippi State’s Got Talent put eight student performers onstage, with Zach Todd taking first place. Starkville is also leaning into autumn, with local coffee shops rolling out seasonal menus and the campus scenery beginning to change. Education: Mississippi reports higher Advanced Placement participation and pass rates. Lauderdale County says students are gaining college and career options through AP and dual-credit courses. Arts & Heritage: Delta State will host Bill Steber’s exhibit on Mississippi blues from Oct. 8 to Dec. 1. The Chambers Brothers’ story offers another reminder of the state’s musical reach: raised in Mississippi, the siblings blended church gospel with blues and rock before finding fame. Tourism: Travel South USA’s new Southern Journeys itineraries feature the Mississippi Delta’s musical heritage alongside food, history and outdoor experiences. Civil Rights & Representation: State Rep. Kabir Karriem invokes Robert G. Clark Jr.’s legacy in opposing redistricting plans he says could weaken Black representation in Mississippi.