Michael W. Smith was the entertainer of choice for Canstruction 2016 presented by RIFA. Smith has sold over 15 million albums, had 28 number-one songs, received three Grammy Awards and 40 Dove awards. At the ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Michael W. Smith was recognized as a “Cornerstone of Christian Music.”

Christy Futtrell of the American Heart Association sponsored a very special dinner at the Casey Jones Village “Farms Learning Center” as a thank-you to supporters. The theme was “Feast in the Field” and guests entered through the Colonial Civil War home that was saved and moved from Trenton by the Shaw family. On the back deck they were serenaded by The Kevin Wright group.

The Jackson Country Club recently hosted Dancing with the Stars, presented by The Star Center. The event was sold out by those who came to support their special dance team. The dance teams went all out with their costume designs. The judges had a very difficult time as all couples were well trained by their dance instructors.

The crowd starting building early at the Carl Perkins Civic Center for the 2016 “Runway for a Cure.” Attendees honor cancer survivors and patients who bravely confront the illness and hold a determination to come out the other side healed. Though they endure the treatments personally, they have support groups who strive to relieve some of the daily tasks that currently are a burden they may not be able to handle. Boutiques which supported this important cause proudly donated money so a night of awareness could be made through a fun and fashionable way. Each boutique walked the runway to showcase their latest fall fashions and help encourage the survivors.

The Jackson-Madison County Humane Society’s 18th Annual “ Puttin’ for the Pets” Golf Tournament was held at the Jackson National Golf Club. It was a furrific day for animal lovers/golfers to unite for a worthy cause. The third Monday in September has been the date for this annual fundraiser for 18 years as this is the last major fundraiser for the Jackson-Madison County Humane Society (JMCHS) each year.

This year the fairgrounds building was redecorated to spotlight all the communities which are a part of the West Tennessee State Fair. Each community had a station with literature about the community, maps of their noted spots and free gifts for the kids. Woodmen Life sponsored a First Responders Night honoring the Fire Department, Sheriff’s Department and Jackson City Police.

Quilts, canopies, and lawn chairs dotted the grounds of First Presbyterian Church in preparation for the 38th annual Jackson Symphony’s Starlight Symphony. The cannon brigades unloaded their cannons as orchestra members tuned their instruments. Excitement ramped up and suddenly the air was filled with laughter and friendly greetings as the audience prepared their food and drinks to enjoy during the musical performance.

Area Relief Ministries hosted their 5K Color Run at City Hall in downtown Jackson. On this sunny September morning, runners were splashed with color at various stops along their route as they made their way around historic, downtown Jackson. The overall winner was 12-year-old Braden Riddle with a time of 20 minutes and 45 seconds.

Members of the Jackson Symphony’s Legacy Circle gathered at the Kirkland home to kick off the Symphony’s 56th season. Artistic Director and Conductor, Peter Shannon, addressed the guests and spoke about each concert that will be performed. The first “Opening Night” concert kicks off September 17th at First Baptist Church in Jackson.

The 18th annual Whine & Dine fundraiser for the Jackson-Madison County Humane Society was held at The Aeneas Building. Guests were treated to wine, moonshine and beer tasting and a coffee bar to complement the hors d’oeuvres. Multiple tables were filled with silent auction items and on the patio entertainment was provided by the Shifty Nixon Band. Thanks to all the people who gave of their time to organize this event.

The Jackson Rotary Club celebrated its 100th year on August 3rd at Union University Carl Grant Center. The guest speaker for the event was President of the Rotary International, John Germ. He spent some time recognizing the 100-year history of the Jackson Rotary Club. The future of the organization and its goals were also discussed. Many Jackson Rotarians as well as members from other Rotary Clubs attended the celebration.

The 2016 “Toast of Jackson,” held at Jackson Fairgrounds Park, was a resounding success with a steady stream of people attending. The wine vendors were overwhelmed with the attendance. Numerous merchants provided additional venues for the visitors.