“In commemoration of Labor Day weekend, the traditional end of summer, Shiloh National Military Park will present Civil War cannon firing demonstrations on Saturday, September 2, and Sunday, September 3,” announced Park Superintendent Catherine Bragaw. The scheduled firing demonstrations will be presented by the Shiloh cannon crew, firing a 6-pounder field piece across the street from the park visitor center. The cannon firing demonstrations will take place on Saturday at 10:00 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:00 pm, and on Sunday at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:30 pm. Each program will last approximately 20-minutes, and interpret the weapons, projectiles, and procedures Civil War artillery crews used during the war. “The 6-pounder field piece being demonstrated this weekend, was the most common field artillery piece used in the battle of Shiloh,” said Bragaw. “Of the 251-cannon used in the battle, 96 of them were 6-pounders.” All programs are free and open to the public. For more information, please contact the park visitor center at 731-689-5696, visit the Shiloh Park website at www.nps.gov/shil, find Shiloh Park on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ShilohNMP, or follow Shiloh Park on Twitter @shilohnps.   As part of a grant secured by the City of Jackson’s Office of Innovation, the City’s Office of Financial Empowerment is launching a community awareness campaign to help our residents identify the signs of fraud and scams. "This is one of several programs the City of Jackson is facilitating through a partnership with Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund that will help people gain control of their financial success and start to build wealth,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “When 14% of Madison County residents live in poverty, it affects everyone. As a former CEO of United Way of West Tennessee, I understand the vital importance of financial empowerment in order for individuals, families and communities to thrive.” Recognize signs of scams in West Tennessee by doing the following: Other tips for consumer protection include: “Some may think that these suggestions are common sense, but that is not always true for individuals who are less familiar with technology. Namely, our senior population, residents who do not use technology often, and more trusting individuals are being taken advantage of at an increasingly alarming rate. These are real people who live in our city… our family, friends, and neighbors,” said Christiana Gallagher, Director of Jackson’s Office of Financial Empowerment. “Research shows that there is a significant portion of the population who will become victims of these scams and fraudsters. I have witnessed the life-changing effects of these deceptions firsthand working in the banking industry right here in Jackson. Unfortunately, financial exploitation is not going anywhere… fraud will only get more convincing as technology advances. Our goal is to help people identify the signs of popular schemes so that they can protect their assets and build or maintain financial stability. Your loved one could be a phishing phone call or text message away from devastating financial hardship or even poverty. I have seen it happen many times.” If you feel you have been a victim of fraud, deceptive business practices, or would like to report a scammer, contact the City of Jackson’s Office of Financial Empowerment. Director Christiana Gallagher can be reached at 731-422-7034 or cgallagher@jacksontn.gov. Initiatives such as these originated in 2019 when City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger established the Anti-Poverty Task Force to reduce poverty and enhance quality of life. In October 2020, the City of Jackson applied for and received the competitive CityStart grant from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. Jackson was one of five localities to receive the planning grant and used the funds to identify strategies that would financially empower residents. This strategic plan is a part of the City Start Blueprint that resulted from those efforts. Other successful initiatives that came from this plan include the Financial Empowerment Center at United Way that provides free financial counseling to West Tennessee residents. To learn more about what the City of Jackson is doing to fight poverty through financial literacy, visit OFE.jacksontn.gov. Office of Financial Empowerment The Office of Financial Empowerment manages existing and launches new financial empowerment programs and initiatives. This office serves as the City of Jackson’s internal financial empowerment consultant, brings financial stability lens to a range of related issues, and leverages its leadership role to ensure financial empowerment is central to local anti-poverty efforts. The purpose of the Office of Financial Empowerment is to expand access to safe and affordable credit and banking products, increase access to one-on-one financial counseling and coaching services, expand community wealth-building strategies, and identify policy and programmatic barriers to improving financial stability. Jackson's Financial Empowerment Center Jackson's Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) offers professional, no-cost, one-on-one financial counseling to all Jackson and West Tennessee residents (18 years +). There are no income or program requirements to qualify for its services. Clients will be given access to tools that can improve their financial stability and achieve their goals. The services offered include helping residents with: creating a budget, managing finances, increasing savings, maximizing cash flow, establishing/building credit, managing debt, connecting with safe and affordable banking services, and more. The FEC is jointly managed by United Way, City of Jackson, and Cities for Financial Empowerment. Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund The Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund’s mission is to leverage municipal engagement to improve the financial stability of low- and moderate-income households by embedding financial empowerment strategies into local government infrastructure. The Fund works with mayoral administrations and those interested in supporting them to implement innovative programs and policies—and measures its success accordingly. The Fund’s four key disciplines include asset building, banking access, consumer financial protection and financial education counseling. To learn more, visit cfefund.org. Public Notice is hereby given that the Community Economic Development Commission meeting will be held at 4:00 pm, Thursday, September 21, 2023.   The meeting will be held in the Conference Room on the second floor of the Greater Jackson Chamber building, 197 Auditorium, Downtown Jackson.   If you plan on attend, please confirm by calling 731-425-8333. Congratulations to the Salvation Army for being recognized as the Greater Jackson Chamber’s August Small Business of the Month! For 72 years, The Salvation Army has remained steadfast in their commitment to adding value, year-round, to the lives of individuals and families in our greater Jackson community. With the consistent support of community members, their efforts will continue to create positive change, enhancing lives and spreading hope. The mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in his name without discrimination. The Salvation Army has been a beacon of hope and support in our community, touching countless lives with their unwavering commitment to serving those in need. From fighting poverty, enrichment services to the youth, offering food to the hungry and offering assistance in times of disaster, they truly embody the spirit of compassion and selflessness. The work is multifaceted and includes service to seniors through the monthly program for Senior Adults Living Triumphantly (S.A.L.T.). “S.A.L.T. was birthed in the pandemic and is designed for older adults to come together, enjoy a meal, and learn about resources and other opportunities in our community,” says Captain Cancia. In addition to that, our food pantry combats the food insecurity often experienced by the disadvantaged and neighbors living on fixed incomes. Twice a week, The Salvation Army distributes produce, meat and snacks to supplement meals needed. Lastly, the Pathway of Hope program and financial assistance initiatives allow the organization to invest in the social determinants of health for youth and others in our community. These activities, initiatives and overall open-door approach all foster community and allow people to live the fullness of life that Christ intends. At the heart of Jackson/Madison County, the corps of The Salvation Army is “Doing The Most Good” in Gibson, Crockett, Chester, Hardeman, Henderson, Madison, Carroll and Weakley. For more information or way to support the Salvation Army, please visit salvationarmyjacksontn.org. Nominations for Small Business of the Month are accepted year-round. To nominate a Greater Jackson Chamber member or self-nominate as the Small Business of the Month, click here. The Community Foundation of West Tennessee will host the 32nd Annual Charity Gala on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in downtown Jackson. “Investing in West Tennessee is at the heart of our mission. The Charity Gala gives us the opportunity to highlight the work of leaders in Jackson, raise funds to support critical community needs, and partner with businesses in the region,” said Frank McMeen, President of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee. The Charity Gala is the largest fundraiser hosted by The Foundation and raises funds to support critical community initiatives, like the organization’s annual Community Impact Grants. The black and white affair will feature a cocktail hour, silent auction, seated dinner, award presentations, and live entertainment. The Foundation is excited to welcome back Caleb Minter and the Structure Band as the evening’s entertainment. "One of the elements that makes the Charity Gala so special is the entertainment. We are thrilled to bring back Caleb Minter and the Structure Band," said Darren Lykes, Board of Trustees member and volunteer. "At last year's event, our guests never left the dance floor, and we look forward to having the same energy again." The Foundation will recognize nine individuals who made an impact on Jackson during the award presentations at the event. This year’s recipients are: Allison DeMarcus – Tigrett Award Jim Norton and Robert Walden – Dr. A. Barnett Scott Service Award Andrew Boks – Jackson Award for The Arts Dr. Jeremy Tubbs – Jackson Award for Education John H. Weston, Jr. – Jackson Award for Healthcare Young Kim – Jackson Award for Leadership Jackie Utley – Jackson Award for Volunteer Service Elvia Trejo Reyes – Jackson Award for Youth “We have a great group of award recipients this year, and we are proud to honor them for their work in our community,” said Beth Koffman, Chief Operating Officer of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee. “These awards shine a spotlight on the individuals who are making an impact in our area and reflect the growth, diversity, and future of Jackson.” The Patrons’ Party is a cocktail party hosted the night before the Charity Gala to celebrate the award recipients and thank event sponsors. It has quickly become a guest favorite for the lively atmosphere and delicious food. Tickets for the Charity Gala are $2,500 for a table of eight or $350 per individual ticket, which includes a cocktail hour, silent auction, seated dinner, and live entertainment. Sponsorships are available starting at $3,500. To secure your seats for the Charity Gala, contact Haley Wildridge by email at haley@cfwtn.org or call (731) 984-2146. Learn more about the event at www.TheCharityGala.org. The Charity Gala is the largest annual fundraiser hosted by the Community Foundation of West Tennessee, welcoming over 600 guests to Jackson for the weekend. The event includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, seated dinner, award presentations, live music, and dancing. Proceeds from the event support critical community initiatives. The Charity Gala has come to be recognized as one of West Tennessee’s “most elegant events.” The Community Foundation of West Tennessee was established in 1985 to strengthen the health and well-being of the region by serving as a catalyst for positive changes in the arts, education, healthcare, and other causes. It enhances the quality of life for residents by supporting programs, initiatives, and organizations serving rural West Tennessee. Learn more at www.cfwtn.org. Jackson Fire Department is announcing the 2nd Annual Patriot Day Memorial Stair Climb at 8:00 a.m., Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the Ballpark at Jackson, 4 Fun Place, in Jackson, Tennessee. The objective of this event is to bring awareness and honor all heroic first responders that tragically lost their lives in the line of duty on that day. “We are excited to host the Patriot Day Memorial Stair Climb at the Ballpark for the second year in Jackson, TN,” said Jackson Fire Department Fire Marshal LaTrell Billingsley. “By hosting this event we want to make sure we never forget those who died during this tragic point in our nation’s history.” The stair climb is open to all first responders, military personnel, and members of the community. The stair climb will consist of participants ascending approximately 2200 stairs, which is symbolic of the 110 stories ascended by first responders at the World Trade Center. The stair climb may be completed in full personal protective gear, partial gear, or gym clothes. In addition to the stair climb, there will also be ground games held for adults and children, vendor booths, a dunking booth, and much more! We look forward to your support of this worthy cause to honor those who have gone before us. You can register for the event by clicking the Patriot Day Stair Climb button at http://connect.jacksontn.gov 2023 Madison Academic Magnet High School graduate Ria Patel has been selected as July 2023 Hub City Hero. Patel’s nominator said that her goal has been “to make an impact in her community any way she can.” Patel is the creator of “Ria’s Heart” which, according to her nominator, is a “behavioral therapy art program for children who are autistic.” Patel has volunteered her time with Oakhaven Assisted Living where she, according to her nominator, “would bake all kinds of goodies to take to the residents” and spend time on several occasions, buying and creating gift bags containing personal care items, and on one occasion purchasing game boards, puzzles, and card games for the resident’s activity area.” Ria says that The Star Center is one organization that she’s been affiliated with the longest. Her fundraiser, “Cupcakes for a Cause” raised money through selling cupcakes that she learned to bake during the Pandemic. She said that when she returns during the summer that she will teach baking classes at the Star Center. “The Star Center was mostly important to me,” Patel said. “I wanted to do some kind of cupcake drive to raise money for [them].” Patel said that she feels rewarded when combining her passion and service. “Always go with your passion,” Patel said. “If you think about what you love and what you really love to do, incorporate that into your community service.” “Ria is a model for selflessness,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “Her volunteering for multiple organizations, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA during her time in high school, shows a true passion for service to others.”   “Hub City Heroes” selflessly and steadily give of their time and talent to improve the lives of others in the community. Recognition as a hero is one small way to thank these public servants for their efforts and it gives honorees the opportunity to raise awareness for causes that are important to them. Criteria Recipients will be selected monthly and nominations are continuous. To nominate a hero, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov. Candidates must be a resident of Jackson, Tennessee After a year of heroes have been recognized, one hero will be selected and awarded $1,000 to donate to a non-profit of their choice. For more information, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov. For Miss Lane College Jada Brown, first time’s the charm, as she is crowned the new Miss Tennessee Volunteer on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, Tennessee. In her first year of competition and representing Lane College as Miss Lane College, Brown is a 21-year-old senior biology major with a minor in chemistry at Lane College. She wowed the judges in five areas of competition, including talent, private interview, swimsuit, evening gown, and on-stage question to take home the state title. The Miss Tennessee Volunteer crown comes with many perks –  with the opportunity to travel the state as the official representative for character education. The Miss Tennessee Volunteer Pageant, prize package includes an $11,000 scholarship and use of a car for her year of traveling from Jerry Ward Autoplex of Union City, plus a wardrobe from Joann’s of Tennessee. “I am thrilled to represent Tennessee and my contestant class as Miss Tennessee Volunteer,” Brown says. “This is an opportunity of a lifetime.” In addition to speaking to over 70,000 school children and civic clubs across the state, Brown will also dedicate time to support her personal platform, "The Beauty Within Our Hands. Once her year of service is complete, Brown will use her scholarship earnings to pursue her dental healthcare professional degree to become a dental hygienist. While Brown may have captured the crown and scholarship money, there were 35 additional incredibly intelligent and talented young women who will take home scholarships to further their education and professional goals. Additional finalists in the pageant included:   Top 10 finalists included (in no particular order):   Top 12 finalists included (in no particular order & both receiving $2,750 in scholarships for Top Twelve placement and a Lifestyle & Fitness preliminary award)   Top 15 finalists included (in no particular order)   Non-finalist awards as well as academic and community service awards are also awarded. Each contestant receives a minimum of a $500 scholarship from the local program and at least $1,000 in scholarships for participating at the state level. In total, the Miss Tennessee Volunteer Pageant awarded more than $89,000 scholarship dollars to its 36 contestants. Paige Clark, Miss Tennessee Volunteer 2023, crowned Brown. “We are so proud to continue our mission in supporting the young women of Tennessee through awarding college scholarships, recognizing their achievements in academics, and community involvement, and inspiring thousands of schoolchildren across the state,” says Emily Anne Sparks, Miss Tennessee Volunteer Co-Executive Director. “I know Jada will add to the exceptional legacy Paige has set forth.” For appearance or interview requests for Miss Tennessee Volunteer, please contact Rachel Nall, Miss Tennessee Volunteer Business Manager, at MissTNBusinessManager@gmail.com.
GIVEAWAY TIME 🥳
Enter to win:
• Two concert tickets to The Kyle Lacy Band on Saturday, August 12th, at Hub City Brewing 🎸
• $50 Rock'n Dough gift card 🍕
• Jackson Hidden Tracks T-shirt
To enter:
• Follow Jackson: Hidden Tracks and Visit Jackson TN
• Like this post
• Tag a friend who loves discovering new music!
Giveaway ends on Thursday, August 10th, at noon. Winner will be randomly selected and announced on our page shortly after.
Good luck! 🌟
*This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook or Instagram. US entries only. Prizes must be picked up in Jackson. Only ONE winner will be selected.
“Attention all outdoor adventurers and naturalists!” Shiloh National Military Park is pleased to announce a Junior Ranger Nature Hike on Saturday, August 12th. Join park rangers as we explore the battlefield and observe our animal friends and plant life. Learn how to record your observations in your own Field Notebook and share what you learned with your family and friends. Each Junior Ranger will receive a Field Notebook and special pencil. The program will start at the Shiloh visitor center at 10:00 am and will end at 11:30 am. Hikers should bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and wear proper shoes. Please no open toed shoes, sandals, flip flops, etc. Participation in this Junior Ranger camp is free to registered Junior Rangers and their parents or guardians. We are limited to only 50 Junior Rangers for this camp so don’t wait, register today by calling 731-689-5696. For more information on this and other events at Shiloh please contact the park visitor center at 731-689-5696, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/shil, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ShilohNMP, or follow us on Twitter @ShilohNPS.