NATCHEZ — College football prognostications, dreams of making it big and a look ahead to October.  Here is a look at some of the stories you might have missed among the headlines last week:

FOLLOWING HER DREAMS

Adams County Christian School student Drew Keikel has been a fan o “American Idol” her whole life. Now she gets a chance to make her mark on the popular television show.

ACCS student gets to audition for ‘American Idol’ July 20. 

ROARING ONTO THE ARTS SCENE

Xavian Lewis said he never anticipated he would be an actor, but said he has now discovered a passion for performing arts.

Bright Future: Natchez Early College Academy student dives into arts

 

BALLOON RACE PARTIES NEW ORLEANS STYLE

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race announced its music lineup for the 2018 festival. Music acts will include the Soul Queen of New Orleans Irma Thomas and New Orleans’ favorite Anders Osborne.

Great Mississippi River Balloon Race unveils music lineup honoring New Orleans celebration

 

PRESEASON PROGNOSTICATIONS

Alcorn State is predicted to win the SWAC east conference title again this year and one of the Braves runningbacks was named Preseason Offensive Player of the Year at SWAC media days last week:

Alcorn’s P.J. Simmons receives preseason honor

Alcorn State football team picked to win SWAC East championship

TELLING HIS STORY

After learning he had only three months to live, Wisconsin-native Kelly Phillips took a leap of faith into the Mississippi River, literally.

Man chooses to live out his last days on the river