Good morning, Jackson.

Today at 6 p.m. the Salvation Army’s Music and Mission Red Kettle Kickoff begins in Jackson — featuring music, community activities, and volunteering information — as it launches its holiday season efforts.

Dan Wiley, the recently elected National American Legion commander, visited American Legion Post 12 in Jackson on Monday evening to review support efforts for veterans and mental health.

He said his top priorities were preventing veteran suicide and reducing stigma around mental health.

New government data showed that Tennessee recorded 1,587 firearm deaths in 2023 — with 667 homicides and 96 youth fatalities — and experts blamed relaxed gun safety laws for the record surge.

The University School of Jackson Fine Arts Department will present Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical at Blankenship Theatre, 232 McClellan Road in Jackson — performances are set for October 18 at 7 p.m., October 19 at 2 p.m., and October 20 at 7 p.m. — marking the first time a West Tennessee school stages the original Broadway production of Frozen.

On Saturday, October 25, the West Tennessee Farmers Market in downtown Jackson will host the Sip and Savor Soirée from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. — featuring top chefs, fine drinks, and upscale dishes — to raise funds for local health programs run by the West Tennessee Healthcare Hope and Healing Foundation.

Jackson residents can join an open mic night at Turntable Coffee Counter at 300 East Main Street on Thursday, October 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Neighbors will share talents like poetry, music and stand-up comedy and must purchase a beverage to support the host + admission is free.

A Moody’s Analytics review shows Tennessee is on the brink of a recession while 21 states and the District of Columbia are already in recession — a sign of widespread economic decline.

Analysts add that 16 states, including Texas, Florida and Pennsylvania, are growing — a contrast that experts tie to changes in government jobs and industry cuts.

Jackson YMCA Early Learning Center is temporarily closed for about two weeks to address staffing issues after its director and several teachers left, and the center is finalizing a new leadership team with DHS to meet safety standards—parents will soon receive updates at an in-person meeting while no billing occurs during the closure.

Senior Gracie Bratcher was named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program by Jackson Christian, ranking her among the top 50,000 students (from over 1.5 million) based on her PSAT/NMSQT scores.

The City of Jackson will host a free Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, October 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 164 Conalco Drive — residents can drop off household hazardous waste, oil-based paint, electronic waste, documents for shredding, prescription medications, and other accepted items while staying in their cars.

Melinda Reid from Lifeline Blood Services spoke on a midday show about the annual Vein Drain blood drive — she explained the drive will help meet local blood donation needs.

Union University athletes are training Special Olympics athletes today to improve their skills for the fall games scheduled for October 17 to 18.

The practice sessions help the athletes get ready for upcoming events (supporting inclusion for all abilities).

Misery by Hub City Theatre Company

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Carnegie Center for Arts and History — Check event page for ticket info — Experience a dramatic interpretation of a thrilling tale.

Touch -N- Trunk

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Old Hickory Mall — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with trunk-or-treat fun and a sensory-friendly experience for all families.

Dancing With the STARS

6-10 p.m. — Carl Perkins Civic Center — Fundraiser for The STAR Center — Celebrate 10 years of community impact with dancing and competition from local stars.

Hub City MMA 11

6:30-8 p.m. — Fairgrounds Park — Exciting amateur MMA fights — Experience a night of action-packed bouts featuring the best local fighters.

Halloween at the Market

6:00 – 8:00 p.m. — West Tennessee Farmers Market — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly night filled with fun, games, and plenty of treats!

Candlelight: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

4:30-5:30 p.m. — Le Memphis Cabaret — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a unique candlelit setting.

Lane College Dragons vs. Kentucky State Thorobreds

8:00 p.m. — Lane Field — Tickets from $54 — Witness the thrilling college football clash between the Dragons and Thorobreds.