WHERE DO WE LIVE: JACKSON

Population: 9,256

Founded: 1814

County: Cape Girardeau

Mayor: Carlton Meyer

Unique point: "Our livability is unique. We keep the town clean, have good city service departments, and an excellent school district. We're located in the center of the county, close to the university, health facilities, the airport, and good highways. People work togetyher to make a fine community," says City Administrator Carl Talley.

Cathy Stoverink: "Everything's here, why go anywhere else? We have the best schools and churches, convenient shopping, nice parks and nice people."

Kathryn Scharenborg: "I like a small town. You see people you know all the time. It's a friendly town and we get new people in. The kids have pride in their schools here."

Tom Wilson: "I've been all over the country, and I haven't found any city that is cleaner or friendlier than Jackson. It's always good to come home."

John N. Thompson: "Jackson is a very progressive town. It's relatively conservative, neat and clean. We're growing, but Jackson still maintains a small community atmosphere."