Good morning, Jackson.

On Sunday, families in Jackson rushed to fill up their tanks before tackling heavy holiday traffic as AAA warned that travel was difficult and officials urged airport travelers to check for flight delays.

A local nonprofit is hosting a Christmas toy drive to help families in need during the holiday season, and details on drop-off locations and times will be announced soon.

Local nonprofit RECH Foundation hosted a Christmas toy drive on Sunday at New Hope Baptist Church to provide children with incarcerated parents a festive celebration.

Executive Director Pauline Rogers said the event supports families by encouraging the kids’ confidence during the holiday season.

Brandon’s Penn’s restaurant closed after a 20-year run (the owner retired), leaving four locations statewide in Forest, Canton, Madison, and Ridgeland.

A celebration took place in Jackson today to honor former Mississippi ACLU president Crystal Welch (noted for her dedication to children and social justice).

Friends and family gathered for a night of music and cheer (reflecting her passion for community service) as they vowed to carry her legacy forward.

STARBASE Mississippi is offering free STEAM classes for 5th graders this spring at the 172nd Airlift Wing—a program directed by Julie Clark that partners with local schools; students need only a bus ride and lunch as federal funds cover the rest.

Developers are planning a mini city behind the Metrocenter Mall fence.

Councilman Vernon Hartley said Emerchant Capital’s Chris Jones will convert his 60% property stake into 600 apartments with a grocery store, service station, and first responders (as plans move forward).

Work is underway behind Metrocenter Mall's black fencing as developer Chris Jones plans to convert part of the site into 600 apartments to create a self-sustaining mini city with a grocery and service station; Councilman Vernon Hartley said the project will secure the area and curb dumping.

The No. 6 Rebels beat Tulane 41-10 in Oxford in their first College Football Playoff game—running back Kewan Lacy scored in 59 seconds and Trinidad Chambliss added to the lead.

Ole Miss will face Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day at 7 p.m.

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.

Headcannon Live Performance

10 PM – 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — $10 cover — Experience the energetic punk sounds of Headcannon with light-hearted audience interaction.

Electronically Speaking Featuring Local Artists

10 PM - 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — $ — Experience a night of electronic beats with Starita, Scrap Dirty, and more.