Good morning, Jackson.

Local food pantries are preparing for higher demand as the government shutdown continues and SNAP benefits set to expire on November 1 may leave over 13,000 Madison County residents without support.

The Regional Inter-faith Association—based in Jackson—has stocked up on essentials and is calling on volunteers to help meet rising needs.

Jackson Care Center opened Genesis Homes next to its headquarters to offer housing and support for women and their children.

The project is designed to assist women facing challenges like criminal records, abusive relationships, or substance abuse.

Carl Perkins Centers across West Tennessee are asking for donations of Meals in a Bag—complete meals in Ziplock bags made from canned or boxed food—to help families whose SNAP benefits have been frozen during the 28-day government shutdown.

On Friday, November 8, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the Community Foundation of West Tennessee will host its 2025 Charity Gala at the Carl Perkins Civic Center—celebrating 40 years of service with the theme 'Four Decades, One Iconic Night' and raising funds for community health programs.

WRAP is collecting food items to assemble complete meals for dignity dinners aimed at helping families in need—donors may purchase the items for under $10, pack them as directed, and drop the bags off at designated Family Justice Centers or WRAP offices.

Lewis Tax Firm in Jackson will host a free, family-friendly Haunted House Trick or Treat event on Friday, October 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 127 Devonshire Square—attendees can collect candy inside or outside and enjoy refreshments, photo opportunities and costume prizes.

Paul Haas was named the new music director of the Jackson Symphony at a local rotary meeting.

The acclaimed conductor finished a 15-year run with a Northwest Arkansas ensemble—where he tripled its budget—and became the organization’s fourth leader.

Hub City Theatre Co. will host a Season Announcement Party at Turntable Coffee Counter in downtown Jackson on November 6 — from 7 to 9 p.m. — to celebrate its 2025 season highlights and preview its upcoming 2026 lineup of new stories, songs and surprises.

The event is open to everyone.

The Greater Jackson Financial Empowerment Center and the Jackson American Job Center held a free ‘Mastering Your Money’ workshop on Wednesday at 1124 Whitehall Street, Suite 100—helping residents learn to track spending and create a budgeting plan—designed for those facing debt or living paycheck to paycheck.

Walmart said it will remain open on November 1 despite false TikTok rumors that it would close due to SNAP cuts caused by a government shutdown—USDA warned that funding may fall short to provide full benefits in November.

Tennessee SNAP recipients should contact their state agency for help if needed because nearly 690,629 people depend on these benefits.

TDOT announced road construction in West Tennessee from October 29 to November 5 that will cause temporary lane closures, reduced speed limits, and detours on key routes in counties including Benton, Carroll, and Haywood—projects that will impact both daytime and nighttime travel.

Drivers should expect delays and follow posted detour signs—measures designed to support road repairs, bridge work, and utility realignment.

New traffic lights will be installed at the busy Vann Drive and Country Lane intersection — support arms will be added this week and the lights will be activated next week after testing is complete.

USJ girls soccer defeated FRA in a recent match—final scores from other games were reported by Zach Jones 36 minutes ago.

Westview quarterback Graham Simpson (younger brother of Alabama star Ty Simpson) announced on social media on Oct.

29 that he received an offer from Vanderbilt and also had offers from Miami and Oregon. He has completed 78.3% of his passes with 1,948 yards and 21 touchdowns this season and led the Chargers to an 8-0 start ahead of today’s regional title game against Covington.

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.

Gold's Gym Turkey Day 5K

8-11 a.m. — Gold's Gym — Donations encouraged — Participate in a local charity race benefiting RIFA with awards for top finishers across multiple age divisions.