J.U.M.P. honors Nashville leadership at Christmas Extravaganza

The Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership, (J.U.M.P), a local Nashville community partnership created to advocate for community, economic and workforce development of the Jefferson Street Corridor, will hold its annual Christmas Extravaganza, December 6 at the 15th Avenue Baptist Church from 6–7:30 pm.

This holiday event will honor the contributions and generosity of the following individuals with the following awards:

Monica Fawknotson
Monica Fawknotson

Candlelight Award
Monica Fawknotson, executive director of Sports Authority at Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County
Bill and Pam Martin, philanthropists
Dr. Gloria Johnson, interim dean, College of Liberal Arts at Tennessee State University
Don Hardin, president/CEO of Don Hardin Group

Dr. Gloria Johnson
Dr. Gloria Johnson

Community Advocate Award
Sharon Kay, WFSK radio manager at Fisk University

Trailblazer Award
Angela Mitchell-Hill, Nashville Nails and Salon Service by Na’Sah’s

Unsung Hero Award
Monica Fawknotson, executive director of Sports Authority at Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County

Don Hardin
Don Hardin

“JUMP appreciates the determination and dedication business owners have shown over the years in overcoming the many and varied obstacles to stay in business,” said Sharon Hurt, president/executive director of JUMP and Council-at-Large member of Metro Council. “We want them to know we share in their commitment.”

JUMP has been an integral part of the revitalization of the North Nashville community, that is continuing today. The continued growth is something that has helped to sustain and build a neighborhood that is more than thankful for the outpouring of support.

Sharon Kay
Sharon Kay

“These awards are an attempt to show appreciation to those individuals who have shown leadership in the African American community,” said Mrs. Hurt. “It is a small award in comparison to the value of the service they provide.”

This event is free and open to the public. A celebratory reception will immediately follow at Garden Brunch Café at 924 Jefferson St., Nashville, Tenn. 37208.

Angela Mitchell-Hill
Angela Mitchell-Hill

JUMP was established in 1994 by a group of concerned citizens to develop, foster and promote cooperative economic development through revitalization, acquisition, education and public safety programs in North Nashville.

Today over 111 individuals and organizations make up JUMP’s active membership, including: doctors, lawyers, dentists, master barbers, musicians, ministers, writers, hair stylists, retailers and restaurateurs—with one thing in common, keeping Jefferson Street alive and thriving.

Boom Boom Bam!

Tennessee State football beats Morgan State 25-16 at Homecoming, powered by Daylin Lee’s two touchdowns and Rymen Mosley’s two interceptions.

Early voting surges in Davidson County as November election approaches

Davidson County early voting tops 35,000 ballots in four days. Find Nashville voting locations, schedules and photo ID requirements before October 29.

Black voter turnout faces new challenges ahead of November election

Black voter turnout faces challenges ahead of the 2026 midterms as voting rights battles, economic pressures and gaps in outreach threaten participation.

NAACP launches voter protection hub ahead of midterms — ‘we are ready’

NAACP launches a voter protection hub ahead of the 2026 midterms to help voters report intimidation, flag suppression and connect with legal support.

Rising electricity costs hit Black households harder as states challenge coal investment policies

Rising electricity costs strain Black households as states challenge coal investment policies and debate energy affordability, reliability and fairness.