Good morning, Jackson.

LIFELINE Blood Services celebrated its latest promotion winner on Thursday in Jackson — long-time donor Sam Norment received his new ZT Elite Bad Boy Mower, a prize from a contest that ran from March 1 to April 7 — marking another milestone in community giving.

Lisbon Lopes from United Way of West TN joined the show to share details for an upcoming pancake breakfast that will benefit The READ Team—more information will be provided soon.

A chicken was seen near Chick-fil-A on Stonebridge Boulevard in Jackson that sparked laughter on social media — it was rescued and taken to a nearby farm to roam freely.

The Hub City Spring Showdown Pickleball Tournament kicks off today at Conger Park in Jackson and runs through Sunday with singles and doubles matches for players of all skill levels.

Light refreshments will be available and lunch provided on Friday and Saturday—details set for those taking part.

Sam Norment from Whiteville won a new ZT Elite Bad Boy mower in Lifeline Blood Services' donation giveaway in partnership with Bob’s House of Honda (he has donated blood over 100 times since 2008) and received his prize on Thursday during a special presentation at Lifeline Blood Services in Jackson (the drive ran from March 1 through April 7).

Paws and Whiskers Pet Pantry opened in Jackson to offer pet food of brands you won't find in big stores and even provides private shopping sessions and K9 massage therapy — features created by owner Larissa Moyer after studying pet nutrition.

The store is located at 180 West University Parkway, Suite A and operates Tuesday–Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment on Sunday.

Tax expert Andy Phillips advised Jackson residents to act before tax day by checking for missed deductions and credits—he recommended planning for 2025 filings—and to use a free review of past returns to find any errors that could boost their refunds.

Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Amy Klobuchar introduced the Combating Trafficking in Transportation Act, a bill that would allow states to use federal funds to post human trafficking awareness signs at interstate rest stops and welcome centers.

The bill aims to boost victim identification and help disrupt trafficking networks—efforts seen as key to stopping transnational crimes.

26th Annual Variety Show

7-10 p.m. — Carl Perkins Civic Center — Tickets not specified — Witness an impressive showcase of student talent in dance, song, and creativity.

Tenor Madness Jazz Celebration

7 p.m. — Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center — $30 general, $15 students — Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month with live performances by the Art Edmaiston and Gregory Tardy Quartets.

Crawfest 2025

3-8 p.m. — Hub City Brewing — Family-friendly event — Celebrate with crawfish, shrimp, and fun activities for all ages.

Yoga in the Park

12-1 p.m. — theLOCAL — Free entry — Enjoy an inclusive yoga session for all levels led by a skilled instructor in a community setting.

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.