Good morning, Jackson.

A heavy winter storm has caused school closures across the nation and in Middle Tennessee, where Rutherford County Schools canceled classes for today and tomorrow (local districts are assessing conditions).

Seventh-grader Briony Welborn of Jackson Academic STEAM Academy won two spelling bees—one at her school and another at Liberty Tech on Thursday, Jan.

22—confirming her status as the top speller.

Power outages and ice damage have affected cellular towers in some areas, and TEMA said this disruption is causing higher 911 call volume.

The state is working with providers to restore service and urges residents to use 911 only for emergencies.

The West Tennessee Public Utility District advises customers to protect their gas meter set amid wintry conditions this weekend by sweeping away snow and gently removing ice build-up (ensuring the regulator can breathe).

Jackson Central-Merry boys basketball recovered from a slow start to secure wins in district play, though the Cougars' record still suggests they are not yet ready for another run to the Class AA state tournament in Murfreesboro.

Voting is open for Jackson area's high school girls basketball athlete of the week.

Nominees include Acie Allen, A’mya Brooks, Rayanna Fisher, Miley Hartney and Maddie Surratt, who competed from Jan. 19-24, and votes close Thursday at 4 p.m.

Voting is now open for the Jackson area high school boys basketball Athlete of the Week, with nominees Bryce Austin, Miles Brown, Cruze Porter, Grant Rickman and Weston Vestal competing.

Votes must be cast by Thursday, Jan. 29 at 4 p.m.

The Tennessee Sports Writers Association and USA TODAY Network released boys high school basketball rankings yesterday that showed a close race in Class 2A, with Chattanooga Prep earning 107 points and Tellico Plains trailing by one point — a sign of the competitive season.

Rankings will be updated weekly through the season.

The TSWA and USA TODAY Network released today's TSSAA girls basketball rankings, with Richland topping Class 1A and Bradley Central leading in Class 4A.

Sports writers from local publications compiled the poll weekly to update high school teams' records.

Sole Mates Paint & Sip

5-8 p.m. — Lori's Creative Gatherings — $35 per painter — Unleash your creativity with paint and wine in a relaxed atmosphere without the Valentine pressure.

2026 Annual Celebration and Awards

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Carl Perkins Civic Center — Free entry — Celebrate achievements and network with business leaders in an informal social setting.

Jackson TN Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Fairgrounds Park — $5 admission, under 11 free — Discover a variety of reptiles, exotic pets, and supplies at this family-friendly expo.