Good morning, Jackson.

Rising prices have many Jackson residents worried that higher costs for costumes and candy will make Halloween too expensive this year, and some say the extra expense may change how they celebrate.

Others believe that despite the price hikes + fun will continue to mark the holiday, with shoppers weighing cost against tradition.

Pastor Gary Martin of Jackson First Assembly of God church has launched a winter clothing drive to collect warm coats, gloves, and socks for over 300 homeless or displaced children in Madison County schools+donations are accepted at 1027 West Forest Avenue with calls at 731-668-5547. The drive began at one school and quickly grew to include all needy children while the church will host a Fish Fry Fundraiser on November 14 to raise extra funds+community members are urged to help.

Jackson man Zachary Adkins—a 4th generation US Army veteran who found God in July—is walking across the nation carrying a cross to share his faith and connect with others; he is headed to Memphis and will continue his journey toward Las Vegas.

The former Chili’s on Emporium Drive in Jackson will be demolished soon to clear the lot for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant using a planned construction schedule, but no opening date has been set.

A local event brought Jackson’s history to life today when the annual ghost walking tour featured reports of ghost sightings downtown and a dinner catered by Baker Brothers BBQ.

Historical figures (former Judge Milton Brown Gilmore) and (Irish-born Mayor James O’Connor) guided visitors along a route that celebrated the city’s past.

Jackson State President Dr. Carol Rothstein and Bolivar Mayor Julian McTizic won Dancing with the Stars 2025 Thursday night at the Carl Perkins Civic Center — they raised funds for the Star Center.

Governor Bill Lee warned that SNAP benefits will likely be delayed starting November 1 due to the federal shutdown, affecting more than 690,000 Tennesseans — his team is working with churches and nonprofits to help families use remaining October benefits and submit needed paperwork while Congress works to reopen the government.

The government shutdown continues into its 24th day with concerns on local healthcare as Medicare and Medicaid remain funded by law — West Tennessee Healthcare has lifted a temporary hold on ambulance claims so patients continue to receive care.

Local pharmacies report rising drug prices and difficulties obtaining medications while lawmakers plan a Senate funding vote on October 27.

Jackson-Madison County General Hospital earned its fifth consecutive HeartCARE Center distinction from the American College of Cardiology for excellence in heart care—meeting rigorous standards through multiple accreditation programs and registries.

The hospital continues to serve as a regional leader in heart care for West Tennessee.

A review of restaurant inspections in West Tennessee shows that most local places earned high scores from October 17 to October 23, 2025 — many earning perfect marks while a few received slightly lower ratings.

The report spans venues in several counties and reflects efforts to meet health and safety standards.

Westview quarterback Graham Simpson—youthful talent and the younger brother of Alabama’s Ty Simpson—received offers from Miami and Oregon in less than 24 hours, and he led his team to a 7-0 start this season.

His strong performance, which includes over 75 career touchdowns and 5,000 passing yards, puts him on pace to break school records as Westview prepares for upcoming games.

WBBJ compiled final scores for Week 10 of Football Friday Night — the update showed HUNTINGDON 40—PEABODY 21, SOUTH GIBSON 49—JACKSON NORTH SIDE 31, DYER COUNTY 63—JACKSON SOUTH SIDE 14, and other games that highlighted strong regional play.

The recap also listed scores from matchups featuring WESTVIEW, HALLS, and more, giving a clear picture of the competitive weekend.

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.