Good morning, Jackson.

Washington Douglas Head Start partnered with the Code Red Ministers Coalition to give holiday food baskets to 10 families Monday.

A toy drive + coat drive will be held on Dec. 16 and Dec. 17 at the Washington-Douglas Gym on Iselin Street to further support families.

Voting is underway for the 3rd annual Jingle Bell Jackson Holiday Decorating Contest where 13 residents have a chance to win a $1,000 People’s Choice or judges’ pick award.

Residents may view nominated homes online and vote through Sunday, Dec. 14 — winners will be announced on Dec. 16.

Local volunteers at Home Instead hosted a wrapping party today to prepare 375 gift bags for senior veterans across West Tennessee.

The gift bags include presents, a hand-drawn card by preschoolers, and a community resource guide (Be a Santa to a Senior).

On Monday the Leaders Education Foundation held a Red Carpet Movie Night at Empire 8 Theater in north Jackson, screening Soul on Fire.

The group announced that John O’Leary will be the keynote speaker for its 2026 EmpowerEd event scheduled for September.

Residents in Tennessee will observe the winter solstice on Dec.

21 at 3:19 a.m. CT (daylight will last about nine hours) as the year’s shortest day marks winter’s arrival and hints at longer days ahead.

Experts say that if a cost-sharing law takes effect in 2027, Tennessee’s 9.47% SNAP error rate will force the state to pay 10% of benefit costs, putting SNAP benefits for recipients at risk.

Gov. Bill Lee has not signed a cautionary letter submitted by other governors.

Local experts and the Jackson Fire Department share safety tips as winter weather approaches.

Residents are urged to have their heating systems inspected by licensed professionals, use space heaters with a 3 ft clearance, and avoid extension cords or candles to reduce fire risks.

Over 250,000 cases of shredded cheese have been recalled from major retailers after the FDA reported a risk of metal fragments; local shoppers are advised to check their fridges and return any affected products to the store of purchase.

Two meteor showers will light up the local sky as the Geminids (peaking Dec.

12 to 14) and the Ursids (peaking Dec. 21 to 22) offer bright displays under minimal moonlight. Local residents are encouraged to find dark spots for optimal viewing.

Following Saturday's BlueCross Bowl state championships in Chattanooga, TSWA/USA TODAY Network released final high school football rankings.

South Pittsburg topped Division I with 150 points + other classes reported close contests throughout the season.

Jackson residents can vote for the boys athlete of the week from Dec.

1 to 6 with candidates from local schools that include Kenton Smith, Co Vargason, Timmy Arline, Deuce Davenport and Graham Simpson. The poll closes on Dec. 11.

A Christmas Carol: Scrooge

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Jackson Theatre Guild — Ticket fees apply — Celebrate the season with a heartwarming adaption of the holiday classic featuring Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey of redemption.

Medal Madness Race Series

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — North Park — Registration required — Compete in themed distances from 1M to a Half Marathon and earn a medal for your effort.