Jackson Free Press

10 Local Stories of the Week

There's never a slow news week in Jackson, Miss., and last week was no exception. Here are the local stories JFP reporters brought you in case you missed them.

Senators Seek Pact on Gun-Buy Background Checks

A cornerstone of President Barack Obama's drive to check gun violence is gathering bipartisan steam as four senators, including two of the National Rifle Association's congressional champions, privately seek compromise …

Hacker Gains Access to Bush Family Emails, Photos

A mysterious email hacker apparently accessed private photos and messages sent between members of the Bush family, including both retired commanders in chief.

Is Blizzard Getting Too Much Hype? No, Experts Say

The new director of the National Weather Service says some may be getting carried away in describing the winter storm bearing down on the Northeast. But he says the science …

Prison Pipeline: National Security Threat?

The United States is facing a national security crisis—but not from a foreign enemy.

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Carol Moore

Jackson native and community activist Carol Moore passed away New Year's Day at age 63 after a 30-year battle with cancer.

Senate Poised to Renew Violence Against Women Act

Senators tussled Thursday over whether Indian authorities should be able to prosecute non-Indians in domestic abuse cases.

Brennan Defends Drone Strikes, Even on Americans

CIA Director-designate John Brennan strongly defended anti-terror attacks by unmanned drones Thursday under close questioning at a protest-disrupted confirmation hearing.

Chinese World Worries that Year of Snake May Bite

When the Chinese-speaking world ushers in its new year on Sunday, its 12-year zodiac will turn from the dragon to one of the world's most despised animals.

EU Leaders Inch Toward Budget Deal at Tough Summit

European Union leaders closed in on a deal that would cut the bloc's budget for the first time in history and deliver a strong message that years of expanding EU …

Senators Seek Deal on Gun-Sale Background Checks

A bipartisan quartet of senators, including two National Rifle Association members and two with "F'' ratings from the potent firearms lobby, are quietly trying to find a compromise on expanding …

It's the Weekend!

Tonight, Black Jacket Symphony performs at 8 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall.

HHS Denies Mississippi's Plan for Exchange

Commissioner Mike Chaney said he feels the Obama administration has betrayed him for denying the state's application.

Jackson Eyes $300 Million for Water Needs

Jackson is facing about $300 million in needed improvements to the city's water system over the next 20 years, a new study shows.

A Patient's Guide: How To Stay Safe In a Hospital

Propping up a patient's hospital bed at a 30-degree angle can help prevent hospital-acquired pneumonia. Using alcohol wipes kills staph bugs, but you need bleach wipes to kill C. diff …

Oil Spill Cleanup on Mississippi River Complete

The Coast Guard has completed cleanup of the oil spill near Vicksburg, Miss., that closed the major shipping channel for days in both directions.

AP Sources: House Dems Offer Own Gun Control Plan

House Democrats will unveil 15 proposals for curbing gun violence that resemble President Barack Obama's plan and will include a call for banning assault weapons, people familiar with the package …

White House Allies Produce Preschool-for-All Plan

Days before President Barack Obama outlines his agenda for the coming year, a think tank with close ties to the White House is outlining a plan that would provide preschool …

NM Abortion Complaint Highlights Privacy Concerns

A woman from New York came to New Mexico to terminate her pregnancy at one of the nation's four late-term abortion clinics after she found out the fetus she had …

EU Leaders Brace for Tough Fight at Budget Summit

European Union leaders drew hard lines Thursday ahead of a bracing fight over EU spending for the next seven years that reflects deep divisions over the role of their union.