Entertainment

Michael Jackson’s hometown readies for celebration

Michael Jackson’s Indiana hometown is gearing up for a weeklong celebration marking what would have been the late pop star’s 54th birthday.

Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson said at a Friday news conference outlining the celebration that Jackson family matriarch Katherine Jackson and her late son’s three children are expected to take part in some of the events. […]

Entertainment

Thousands mark Elvis’s death, get surprise visit

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – Thousands of devotees converged on Graceland to mark the 35th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death and got a surprise welcome from the King’s former wife and daughter, the first time Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley have appeared together at the annual gathering.
The two women appeared on an elevated stage in front of the crowd Wednesday night, the eve of the Aug. 16 date when the rock and roll icon died at home in 1977 from a heart attack after battling prescription drug abuse.
Elvis was born in Tupelo, Miss. […]

Entertainment

Sparks finds new light in ‘Sparkle’ remake

When most singers make the leap from recording artist to movie star, it’s usually a well-calculated career maneuver that requires show-business acumen from an army of agents, acting coaches, managers and publicists. However, for bubbly sixth season “American Idol” champion Jordin Sparks, the jump from stage to screen just, well, kinda happened. […]

Health

Mississippi again ranks worst in obesity

State leaders are counseling patience as they strive to reduce the share of obese Mississippians.

Rankings released this week by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show nearly 35 percent of Mississippi adults were very fat in 2011, the worst in the nation. […]

Education

JSU honors top faculty and staff at One JSU: Excellence Awards Dinner

Jackson State University recognized its top faculty and staff during the “One JSU: Excellence Awards Dinner” Tuesday, Aug. 14.
Nearly 50 employees, who were nominated by their unit leaders and peers, were honored for their outstanding contributions to Jackson State University.
“We applaud our honorees for their individual efforts and pursuits,” said JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers… […]