Good morning, Jackson.

Local individuals and organizations were recognized at the Hinds County Youth Court’s State of the Child Address on Thursday afternoon in Hinds County (2025 Champions for Children awards were given to honor their support for local children and families).

Judge Carlyn Hicks noted that these awards celebrate those who keep the community’s support systems running.

Local Jackson shelters open overnight to provide basic needs amid dropping temperatures.

Stewpot’s Opportunity Center opens at 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and Shower Power in Jackson operates overnight from Sunday to Tuesday (offering meals, showers, clothing) while officials urge residents to winterize homes and vehicles.

Jackson organizations hosted a luncheon for first responders on Friday, Dec.

12 to honor their service in the community *the event united local emergency personnel with residents*.

A delegation of Buddhist monks from Fort Worth passed through Jackson on Dec.

10 as part of their 2,300-mile Walk for Peace to Washington D.C., stopping at the Quán Âm Tịnh Viện Buddhist Temple to rest & offer a sermon before continuing their journey.

Jackson Public Schools officials celebrated JROTC student excellence at the 13th Annual JROTC Gala held Friday at 6 p.m. at the Jackson Convention Complex; the event honored 1,500 cadets who logged over 26,000 community service hours and earned more than $5 million in scholarship offers.

Stewpot Community Services’ Opportunity Center Day shelter will open at 5 p.m. both Sunday, Dec.

14 and Monday, Dec. 15 to offer overnight shelter with meals, showers & safe indoor space as freezing weather is forecast. Mayor John Horhn said protecting vulnerable neighbors is a top priority.

Vape shops in Rankin County now offer nitrous oxide labeled for culinary purposes, yet many young locals use it to get high — raising health concerns.

Experts warn that misuse can reduce oxygen levels and pose serious risks.

Liam St. John Live Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets $25.30 ($30.45 day of) — Experience an evening of blues and rock with 'The Voice' contestant Liam St. John.

Chess Class at Alexander Library

4-6:30 p.m. — Margaret Walker Alexander Library — Free entry — Explore the fundamentals and strategies of chess in a friendly environment.

Santa Zoo Station

10 a.m.–1 p.m. — The Jackson Zoo — Timed tickets required — A festive holiday extravaganza filled with crafting, photos with Santa, and family fun awaits.

HEADCANNON Live Performance

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Hal & Mal's — $15 — Experience an electrifying night with HEADCANNON and friends, featuring a unique tattoo pop-up.

Cecily Wilborn Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — Mississippi Coliseum — Tickets available — Experience a Southern Soul party with music and dance in Jackson.

Happy Landing Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices vary — Experience an energetic folk rock concert from the rising band hailing from Oxford, Mississippi.