Good morning, Jackson.

On Monday, Madison County employees gathered at the Hope Center in Jackson to celebrate the holiday season with a free meal, door prizes and a performance from South Elementary after weeks of rehearsals.

The Old Country Store will host its 41st Annual Christmas Eve Breakfast on Dec.

24 in Jackson. Doors will open at 5:30 a.m. (last seating at 2 p.m.) and Santa will visit from 8 a.m. to noon as guests enjoy a traditional buffet with all beverages included.

Soul Quest Church will host a Christmas Eve toy giveaway on Dec.

24 at 4:30 p.m. at 38 Garland Drive (everyone is welcome) to spread holiday cheer in the community.

The Jackson Animal Care Center opened its new facility over the weekend and now houses several cats+dogs waiting for adoption; the center will continue its work to find homes for its pets.

The Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce announced on Monday, Dec.

15 that Executive Director Don A. McCorry will retire on July 24, 2026, and the board is now starting its search for a new director to continue his work.

The Better Business Bureau warns local shoppers that gift cards, a popular holiday gift, are at risk as scammers may scratch off pin numbers before use + residents should check balances promptly and call issuers if something seems off.

The Ned in Jackson will host a candlelight Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec.

21, at 8:45 p.m. at 314 East Main Street, where a string ensemble will perform traditional carols with glowing candlelight; tickets start at $29.

Carnegie Center for Arts and History will host its annual Christmas party on Thursday, Dec.

18 with a Suede and Blue theme inspired by Rockabilly pioneer Carl Perkins; the free event offers museum admission, local art, a hot chocolate bar (and ornament decorating) for community fun.

During Monday night’s meeting, the Jackson-Madison County School Board approved nine budget amendments and transfers to support student travel for a national robotics competition and discussed a bonus plan for superintendent Dr. Marlon King; South Elementary music students and Air Force JROTC members also visited the session (adding festive spirit).

Cold weather is affecting Jackson workers and shoppers as city groundskeepers use coveralls for warmth and auto experts caution that very low temperatures could crack engine blocks (reminding residents to check coolant levels and tire pressure) as winter continues in the community.

District Manager Cory Smith from Cook’s Pest Control in Jackson shared tips today to keep pests out of homes, sheds and cars during the cold winter.

Residents should seal vents, secure crawl space doors and reduce clutter—measures that help keep raccoons, opossums and skunks outside.