JACKSON MERCHANTS HOPE TO KEEP SHOPPERS AT HOME

Jackson's merchants are trying to keep their neighbors home for the holidays, at least as far as shopping in concerned.

Vanita Jones of the Jackson Merchants Association says the patronage of Jackson citizens is vital to the town's merchants.

The merchants have combined forces to fund a newspaper and television ad campaign designed not only to keep Jackson shoppers in Jackson, but to draw those living outside the city in to what Jones feels is a unique shopping area with a homey, personalized atmosphere.

"The number one thing is that are local shops are often more specialized," she said, explaining that a number of specialty shops are available in the city's uptown area and elsewhere. These include stores offering sportswear, sporting goods, party wear and other kinds of specialty items.

"I think our hometown shops also offer a little bit faster service and a little bit more personalized service," she said.

In order to make the shopping in Jackson more convenient for those who work during the day, Jones said a number of the merchants are staying open later, often until 8 p.m. In addition, downtown merchants will be playing Christmas music to help put shoppers in the Christmas mood.

On weekends, Santa Claus will be available to talk to kids in his "house" on the lawn of the courthouse. Jones added that an awning covers most of the uptown area's sidewalks, shielding shoppers from the elements.