Merit Health welcomes B. Judson Colley III, MD, MPH, cardiac electrophysiology (EP) specialist to our medical staff. An electrophysiologist specializes in the study of the heart’s electrical system or activity used to diagnose abnormal heartbeats or arrhythmia. Some arrhythmias may be harmless, while others are more serious and require lifestyle changes and intervention. Dr. Colley works with an experienced team of nurses and nurse practitioners to provide evaluation and treatment using advanced health care technology and techniques such as medication therapy, catheter based procedures and surgery for the treatment of heart rhythm disorders. “As our community grows, we are proud to add Dr. Colley to our team. We are very excited we will now be able to offer this critical and highly specialized care right here in our community,” said Sam Dean, CEO, Merit Health River Oaks. “Our patients will greatly benefit from Dr. Colley’s experience. He has honed his valuable skills through many years of training, practice and research and we are thrilled to have his expertise added to our heart program.” Dr. Colley serves the Southeast with medical practices in Birmingham, AL, and Flowood, MS. He completed medical school and an Internal Medicine residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Medicine, followed by a cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Colley is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine/Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology and has been in practice since 2007, serving roles as both a physician provider and administrative director in the cardiovascular service line. Dr. Colley’s expertise in cardiac rhythm disorders includes atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, supraventricular tachycardia, and cardiac rhythm devices. He has also participated in many groundbreaking research trials. Dr. Colley’s Mississippi clinic is located at 1040 River Oaks Drive, Suite 301, Flowood, MS 39232. For more information about heart rhythm disorders or to make an appointment, call 601-203-6202 or visit MyMeritDoctor.com. About Merit Health Merit Health offers a free e-newsletter with a monthly dose of health and wellness inspiration sent directly to your inbox from a trusted medical source. To sign up, visit https://bit.ly/3DVq3zt. Merit Health serves the healthcare needs of residents of Mississippi through its 9 affiliated hospitals. The healthcare system offers a wide array of services including orthopedics, cardiology, women’s health, emergency departments and broad diagnostic medical and surgical services. The network has more than 1,800 licensed beds, more than 2,500 physicians on the combined active medical staffs, more than 3,000 employees, and more than 40,000 admissions and more than 250,000 emergency department visits each year.

By Bob Arnold Co-Lin graduates Morgan McCray of Ridgeland and Bailey Wilson of Brookhaven have earned full scholarships for medical school through the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program (MRPSP). MRPSP is a competitive scholarship program for outstanding Mississippi students committed to pursuing rural medicine and primary care. Once admitted into medical school, McCrary and Wilson will have all four years paid for through the MRPSP, scholarships of $35,000 per year. “To say we are proud of Morgan and Bailey is quite an understatement,” says Co-Lin President Dr. Jane Hulon Sims. “They made the most of their time at Co-Lin by dedicating themselves to academic and scholastic excellence, and their hard work has paid off. We feel honored that Co-Lin has played an important role in their success and look forward to watching them thrive as physicians.” McCray graduated from Co-Lin in 2021 and is a rising senior at The University of Mississippi. She plans to go into pediatrics. While at Co-Lin, she was a stand-out student athlete. She served as Student Government Association President and Vice President of Service for Phi Theta Kappa. She was selected as Miss Co-Lin, Who’s Who, and Phi Theta Kappa Officer of the Year. McCray was a member of the Lady Wolves Basketball team and was selected MACCC Academic All-State and NJCAA All-Academic. She was also selected to the PTK All-Mississippi Academic First Team and inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame; the most prestigious honor bestowed on a student. Wilson graduated from Co-Lin in May 2022, and is now headed to Mississippi State University to complete her bachelor’s degree. At Co-Lin, she served as Vice President of the Student Government Association, Vice President of Communications for Phi Theta Kappa, and was a member of the Biomedical Research Team. She was selected to Who’s Who at Co-Lin, as a Campus Favorite, and a Taylor Presidential Scholar. She was also inducted to the college’s Hall of Fame. Wilson has been accepted into MRPSP’s Early Assurance process. The Early Assurance process allows well-qualified sophomore applicants who have had successful interviews with the practicing physicians on the MRPSP Board to interview with the Admissions Committee. If the admissions committee sees the potential for the applicant to grow into a competent, competitive medical student, they are granted Early Assurance status. This means the student must maintain their grades during the junior and senior years, score well on the MCAT and actively participate in all MRPSP activities. For McCray, her time at Co-Lin demonstrated the impact of close-knit community. “Opting to play college basketball at Co-Lin allowed me to experience first-hand the positive impact of a small environment," she says. "Being surrounded by people who truly care for one another for two years, Wesson became my home away from home. With my passion for science and caring for people, I saw how in small towns such as Wesson, I could build significant relationships that truly resemble a family while serving the health of the community. Co-Lin was a pivotal moment in my life when deciding to pursue rural medicine.” Wilson credits her time at Co-Lin for helping prepare her for the opportunity offered by her scholarship. “Going to Co-Lin was the best decision I could have made for myself,” Wilson says. “I was able to form connections with my teachers, while being pushed academically at the same time. I did not have a single bad experience with any of my instructors. I can’t say enough good things about my time at Co-Lin. “I want to especially thank Dr. Kevin McKone, Mrs. Lucy McKone, Mrs. Mary Warren, Mrs. Angela Smith, Mrs. Cliburn, and Dr. Price. Also, Amy Case and Jordan Stephens for their continuous support."

The Mississippi State Fairgrounds announced the entertainment lineup along with new attractions, including the Great American Wild West Show, for its largest annual event, the Mississippi State Fair. The 163rd Mississippi State Fair will take place October 6 – 16 at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds. This year, the Fair will kick off with a ribbon cutting ceremony open to the public at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 6, at Gate 1 on the corner of Jefferson Street and Amite Street. “I look forward to welcoming the public to the 163rd Mississippi State Fair on Thursday, October 6. The State Fair continues to grow each year incorporating new activities for 11 days of fun-filled, family entertainment,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. “I am excited to announce the newest addition to your State Fair - the Great American Wild West Show. The Great American Wild West Show is a high energy, exciting and entertaining western show. For more than 25 years, the Endsley Family has brought to life the pageantry and excitement of the American West. Just as Buffalo Bill took the ‘Wild West’ to the masses, the Endsley Family has brought the ‘Great American Wild West’ to life. This show travels around the country performing at numerous State Fairs, and we are excited to be a part of their journey.” The Great American Wild West Show will take place daily at 5:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m., with additional performances at 2:00 p.m. during the weekend. The Show will be located in the Mississippi Frontier Village with the pig races, petting zoo, pony rides, train depot, rattlesnake show and other activities. Four nationally recognized artists will perform on the Budweiser Main Stage: Scotty McCreery, B.o.B., Midnight Star and Bobby Rush. Admission to the concerts is free with regular fair admission. Local artists and bands will perform on the Main Stage throughout the duration of the Fair. The Mississippi State Fair Talent Show is making a comeback at the 2022 State Fair. The Talent Show takes place Friday, October 7, and Saturday, October 8, at 6:00 p.m. in the Coliseum. New this year is the 2022 Little Miss Mississippi State Fair beauty pageant taking place Sunday, October 9, at 9:00 a.m. Fairgoers can continue to expect the best of carnival rides and games, fair food, livestock shows and the Zerbini Family Circus. The Ag Expo with the Genuine MS® Store will be located inside of the Trade Mart. Returning to the Equine Center on the first weekend of the State Fair is the X-Treme Bull Riding Fall Nationals and the Tri State Rodeo. “Our staff works year-round to produce a great Mississippi State Fair,” said Michael Lasseter, Executive Director of the Mississippi Fairgrounds Complex. “This year, we have worked diligently to not only produce a great and safe State Fair, but to also present a new website to make keeping up with the Fairgrounds easier and more convenient. Also, we have created a new Instagram account that will keep everyone up to date with all the events happening on the Fairgrounds, including the upcoming 163rd Mississippi State Fair.” To keep the public informed on all the latest updates and information for events happening on the fairgrounds, the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) has launched a new website at www.mississippifairgrounds.com and Instagram page at @MississippiFairgrounds for the Mississippi State Fairgrounds. The Mississippi State Fair runs Thursday, October 6, through Sunday, October 16, with a gate admission price of $5.00 per person and parking fee of $5.00 per car. Children aged 6 and under will be admitted free of charge. The public can purchase advance admission tickets at the Coliseum Box Office until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 6. Enjoy free admission every weekday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., except on Monday, October 10, Columbus Day. For additional information, please visit www.mississippifairgrounds.com, and follow the Mississippi State Fairgrounds on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The boy sure had learned some choice words, no doubt about it. In the school room, on the playground, and at home, he kept getting into trouble on a regular basis for his rather colorful way of expressing his thoughts and feelings. Making it worse, his friends often pushed his buttons to make him angry enough to sound off in no uncertain terms. His parents and teachers at school had corrected, disciplined, and even punished him for using words that would make a sailor feel at home – seemingly to no avail. But gradually, consequences for his behavior began to really hurt. Finally realizing those punishments were only going to get worse, he knew he had to make the effort to hold his tongue. So the work began. Torn between obedience and habit sometimes he slipped up, but he was honestly trying to reform. All was going fairly well, until the day ‘SHE did it.’ A young tormentor in his classroom, who had gotten bored with his better behavior, decided that she needed to get him into trouble. So, she set about making fun of his appearance, his grades, and even his family. With every insult, his angry face turned red with the effort to hold his temper, and his hands clenched into little fists while he kicked at the wall nearby. But still, he held out and never said a word. Finally, exasperated at failing to get him to yell words that used to fall from his lips like fire, she got up in his face and laughed, “Aw, c’mon, aren’t you gonna say sumpin’ bad?!” To which he glared and replied through clenched teeth, “Nope, and you can’t make me. But if you could hear me thinkin’, I’d shore ‘nuff get a whuppin’!! Controlling your thinking and your tongue. Hard to do most of the time. In James 3:8, Scripture says, “But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” Ouch. But even worse, the tongue only obeys what the mind is thinking! No one’s tongue just decides to begin flapping on its own. Your thoughts control exactly what comes out of your mouth. Talk about being caught with your pants down! There are verses that encourage thought control, because thoughts are what truly shape our daily lives. “As a man thinks in his heart, so he can become.” Want a happier life? Focus on things that are good, true, and kind. But stinkin’ thinkin’ is a real problem for most people. And we don’t even realize that is what we are doing. Try this. Monitor your thoughts. Stop every once in a while, and look back on what has been occupying your mind. Then examine your emotions. If you are like most of us, you have been letting your mind replay heartache, criticism, negativity, or anger. And now you are battling a bad mood or depression. Stinkin’ thinkin’ does hurt.

The Southern Business Institute will host CollabSouth on Friday, August 26th at the Country Club of Jackson. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are invited to attend this one-day conference to hear from experts and collaborate with their community. Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson is the keynote speaker. Several other speakers and panelists will discuss topics such as business growth and development, marketing, accounting, human resources, and more. “These events are invaluable to our Mississippi business community,” said Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson. “As elected officials, it’s important for us to have opportunities like these to hear from business leaders and learn how we can better support them and/or get out of the way. More importantly, it fosters a collaborative environment to strengthen relationships and expand available resources.” The Southern Business Institute was founded in 2020 as a collaborative membership group for small businesses in the South to help align business interests, empower business owners, and share resources. CollabSouth will be the Institute’s first event in bringing this community together. Throughout the day, there will be breakout groups and panel discussions to help entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. It will be a wonderful event for people launching their own businesses. “We’re so excited to welcome this community to CollabSouth on August 26th,” said Susan Woods, Co-Founder of Southern Business Institute. “It’s going to be a great day for collaboration and growth for independent businesses.” CollabSouth is from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 26th, at the Country Club of Jackson. It includes a lunch and cocktail hour for attendees to network with other entrepreneurs. Learn more at southernbusinessinstitute.com/collabsouth. Follow Southern Business Institute on Instagram @southernbusinessinstitute and Facebook to get updates.

By guest columnist R. Shaw Furlow Over the years of writing for the Wesson News, I’ve covered about nearly every event that relates to the arts in our little corner of the world. But one of my favorites has been the success of the Brookhaven Little Theatre (BLT), one of the oldest amateur theaters in Mississippi. I remember one Sunday afternoon, when I was a youngster, my mother got out the “good coffee cups” and made cookies and cheese straws for a meeting in our living room. I can’t remember every one there, but I remember Wesson’s John Landress in attendance talking about beginning a little theatre in Brookhaven. I wasn’t invited to the meeting, nor did I really want to be, but years later I was in my first play at BLT because Landress’ idea had prevailed – “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Over the years, hundreds of local amateur actors have trod the boards in production after production at BLT. Men and women who had never been on stage found a home. Directors came from the ranks. Kids who grew up on stage have moved on, some professionally. BLT bought the old Haven, the last remaining of the early movie theaters in Brookhaven. During the 1980s, it was abandoned and became bit of an eyesore in the downtown area. Years of extensive renovations, done in phases as time and money became available, have produced a first class complex there. Of course, there is the John Landress auditorium, and there is a large meeting room for receptions, table readings and even set building. The old haven, where a lot of young Brookhaven boys and girls may have had their first kiss, has come a long way from near ruin to what it is today as the home of BLT. BLT has unveiled its production schedule for the 2022-2023 season, and once again, it promises to be filled with quality. The season opens October 20 with the musical version of the classic comedy, “The Addams Family,” the ghoulish family first made popular by cartoonist Charles Addams. The two songs you may have heard from it are “Let’s Not Talk About Anything Else” and “The Moon and Me.” In December, the set becomes 1940 Indiana, with the story is of Ralphie, a young boy who wanted a Red Ryder BB gun. Everyone’s favorite: “A Christmas Story.” Does Ralphie get the BB gun? Maybe his song “It All Comes Down to Christmas” will convince his parents. “Little Women” begins the 2023 part of the season. The classic by Louisa M Alcott tells the story of Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy as they live through poverty, war and all the family endures. It’s a heartwarming story. The show I am looking forward to is the “Wizard of Oz.” It’s a terrific telling of the story that scared us all when we were kids. Don’t tell me the flying monkeys didn’t get your attention. The season rounds out with “Footloose” and “101 Dalmatians.” Of course, during the summer, there will be drama camps and productions involving teens and kids. Brookhaven Little Theatre contributes to the quality of life in our corner of the world. Like music and visual arts, it all adds up to making our lives better. That’s it folks. Support BLT and all the arts. EDITOR'S NOTE: Shaw Furlow is a local composer, musician and arts promoter. He produces an internet-based video show -- From the Shadyside -- that spotlights area musical talent and is a consultant to school bands in the region. Bob Arnold is Editor of the Wesson News.

By Bob Garver I had to take a week off from the column three weeks ago when “Nope” opened at #1 at the domestic box office. While I’m not sorry that I gave all my attention to a wedding that weekend (shoutout to my Uncle John and new aunt Amy!), it is a shame that this movie didn’t get a review until now. The film follows O.J. (Daniel Kaluuya) and Em Haywood (Keke Palmer), sibling owners of a Hollywood horse ranch. The ranch has been in the Haywood family for generations, but has been going through some tough times ever since the death of patriarch Otis (Keith David). O.J. knows how to handle the horses, but isn’t socially graceful with the Hollywood people that hire the trained animals. Em is more fluent in the ways of Hollywood, but doesn’t know the first thing about horses. The pair’s skills are supposed to compliment each other, but right now they’re just failing on both fronts. There’s an offer on the table from Jupe (Steven Yeun), a former child star with a traumatic past and a tacky amusement park, to buy the ranch, but O.J. is not ready to sign away his birthright. As if the ranch didn’t have enough problems, something is scaring the horses at night and causing them to run off. It must be neighbor kids having a goof, right. No, it’s something from the sky. Commercial aircraft? No, that doesn’t check out. Rational explanations fall away one by one until the movie confirms that it’s a flying saucer. The Haywoods are bowled over by the sudden realization that mankind is not alone in the universe and immediately wonder how they can make money off of it. Their plan is to obtain exclusive footage of the flying saucer, difficult because the spacecraft knocks out all electronics in the area. Tech guy Angel (Brandon Perea) tries to be of assistance, but what they really need is the calmness and professionalism of cinematographer Antlers Holst (Michael Wincott). Antlers and the vessel quickly develop an Ahab/Moby Dick relationship, and his interest in self-preservation slowly dissipates as he becomes more reckless in trying to get the perfect shot. Additional obstacles include the saucer’s tendency to hide behind a cloud (the same cloud every time), opponents such as Jupe wanting to be the first to exploit the spectacle of the saucer, and the saucer’s ability to abduct and digest anything and anyone it wants. Luckily O.J. figures out that if the saucer can eat, it can be trained, which plays to his experience working with horses. Kaluuya gives the best performance in the movie during a sequence where all seems lost, yet he needs to keep his cool. There’s the charismatic actor that won an Oscar for “Judas and the Black Messiah” two years ago. But the other performances aren’t particularly memorable, and by the end of the movie, I was just thinking about how selfish and stupid everybody was for not seeking more help for this deadly situation where lives had already been lost. “Nope” is the third horror outing for writer/director Jordan Peele. It’s a solid effort, if maybe a step down from his previous two films. I daresay Peele’s career is paralleling that of another horror visionary from two decades ago. Back in 1999, M. Night Shyamalan released the monumental “Sixth Sense” to amazing box office numbers and a rare Best Picture Oscar nomination for a horror movie… just like Peele did with “Get Out” in 2017. In 2000, Shyamalan released a respectable-but-less-successful follow-up that started with the letter U in “Unbreakable”… just like Peele did with “Us” in 2019. And in 2002, Shyamalan released the alien-invasion thriller “Signs”… and “Nope” certainly has a lot in common with that movie. Peele had better be careful, Shyamalan’s fourth horror movie was “The Village,” the film where critics really started to say that the former wunderkind had lost his touch. Grade: B- “Nope” is rated R for language throughout and some violence/bloody images. Its running time is 130 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.

Co-Lin Workforce Education welding students have completed a 10-month, non-credit evening welding course and secured the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Welding CONTREN Level I and II certifications. Don Blandon, Co-Lin welding instructor, conducted his ninth session session of workforce evening welding classes at Co-Lin. The program introduces participants to introductory craft skills (Core), Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG), and Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW). Upon successful completion of the Welding Contren Learning Series, students can earn Level I and II certification through the NCCER. In addition to welding skills, students train to earn 10-hour Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) General Industry credentials. With welders in high demand in the manufacturing, agriculture, and oil industries, Co-Lin’s Workforce Education Division is currently offering evening classes at two locations within the college’s district. Upcoming non-credit welding training courses start August 8 with a registration deadline of July 29. Classes are available at both the Wesson Campus and at the Simpson County Center in Mendenhall. Additional information about registration is available at www.colin.edu/workforcwelding or may be requested by calling 601-643-8707. Enrollment requirements include taking the ACT Work Keys Assessment and earning a bronze level or greater National Career Readiness Certificate.

Today, Commissioner Andy Gipson announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) is offering a cost-share program for Mississippi organic producers and handlers receiving certification or continuation of certification by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) accredited certifying agent. Funding is available for those that received the certification between October 1, 2021, and September 30, 2022. Individual organic operators are eligible for reimbursement of 50 percent of their fiscal year 2022 certification costs up to a maximum of $500 per certification scope. The National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program currently recognizes the following certification scopes eligible for reimbursement: crops, wild crops, livestock and handling such as processing. The following must be provided to MDAC by applicants in order to be eligible for reimbursement: proof of valid certification issued by a USDA accredited certifying agent, a reimbursement application form, an itemized receipt that identifies allowable costs paid within the qualification period, and an IRS W-9 form. Applicants must be Mississippi organic producers and handlers located within the state. Funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis until the funds are depleted. Operations may receive one reimbursement per year. The deadline to submit applications is Tuesday, November 1, 2022. For more information about this program or to obtain an application, visit www.mdac.ms.gov/market-development/national-organic-cost-share-program or contact Susan Lawrence at susan@mdac.ms.gov or 601-213-7542.

By Mika Hartman Hudson Hartman To Help Kick Off Down Syndrome Awareness Month In Unique Annual National Down Syndrome Society Video Presentation Hudson Jag Hartman of Pass Christian, Mississippi, will appear in the bright lights of Broadway on Saturday, September 17, as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video presentation. The one- hour video of roughly 500 photographs includes children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states. These collective images promote the value, acceptance, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome in a very visible way. The photo of Hudson was selected from more than 2,400 entries in the NDSS worldwide call for photos. [His/Her/Their] photo will be shown on two JumboTron screens in the heart of Times Square, thanks to the support of ClearChannel Outdoor. The two screens are located above Dos Caminos restaurant in Father Duffy Square. The presentation will be live streamed on the NDSS Facebook page from 9:30-10:30am ET on September 17. Hudson is pictured rocking his World Down Syndrome Day shirt. This Kelly and Kelso shirt features Hudson in animation design, too. So 2X Huddy will be in NYC Lights! The Times Square Video presentation will be followed by the New York City Buddy Walk® in Central Park. The flagship Buddy Walk has taken place in New York City since 1995 as part of the National Buddy Walk Program. Buddy Walk events are held in hundreds of cities across the country, as well as select international locations. For more information about the New York City Buddy Walk on September 17 or the National Buddy Walk Program please visit www.ndss.org. About NDSS The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events, and programs on topics that are critical to our community such as federal and state advocacy and public policy, health and wellness, education, and employment. NDSS creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan and hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including the National Buddy Walk® Program, the Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, the annual NDSS Gala & Auction, and various other events. Visit www.ndss.org for more information about NDSS. About the National Buddy Walk® Program Since 1995, the National Buddy Walk Program has been the premier Down syndrome awareness, advocacy, and peer-to-peer fundraising program in the world. It was created by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to raise funds for local and national incentives to support the Down syndrome community. Today, roughly 150 Buddy Walk events take place in cities across the country and in select international locations. To learn more and find a Buddy Walk near you, visit www.buddywalk.org.

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (“DPS”), the Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol (“MHSP”) and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (“MBI”) have completed all necessary inquiries into an incident involving a state trooper that occurred in McComb on August 5, 2022. This incident has been the subject of significant attention on social media and with media outlets. Commissioner Sean Tindell commented, “While DPS and MHSP recognize and respect the right of citizens to observe, and even record, law enforcement officers executing their duties, those rights are not without limitations. As you will see, this event is a prime example of how even a routine traffic stop can quickly turn into a dangerous situation for both citizens and law enforcement officers when subjects resist arrest and when uninvolved persons interfere.” Pursuant to recent policy changes of this administration to create greater transparency, the agency’s video footage of the incident is today being released. The video being released combines and synchronizes footage from the involved trooper’s dash and in-cab cameras with the phone video that has been widely circulated on social media. The relevant events of August 5 are timestamped below, as follows: Trooper Hayden Falvey initiated a traffic stop on Eugene Lewis after observing Mr. Lewis on Delaware Avenue in McComb traveling at a high rate of speed, passing vehicles on the right, not wearing a seatbelt and speeding up to travel through an intersection after the light turned from green to yellow. Trooper Falvey pursued E. Lewis, ultimately stopping him on Schmidt Road. This area is rural and unpopulated. When approaching E. Lewis’ vehicle, Trooper Falvey smelled a strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. He noted that E. Lewis’ eyes were bloodshot and glassy and that there was a strong odor of burnt marijuana on his breath. It was determined at that time that E. Lewis’ driver license was suspended and that he was driving without liability insurance. E. Lewis admitted to Trooper Falvey that there may be a burnt marijuana cigarette, or “roach,” in his vehicle. [0:55]. He also admitted that he had smoked marijuana about 45 minutes to 1 hour prior to the traffic stop. [1:10]. Having developed probable cause that E. Lewis was driving his vehicle under the influence of marijuana and may be in possession of illegal narcotics, Trooper Falvey placed E. Lewis in handcuffs and began searching his vehicle. [2:10]. During the vehicle search, Gary and Derrius Lewis drove up in a Dodge Charger, stopped in the road, and exited their vehicle. [14:45]. They identified themselves as E. Lewis’ brothers. [15:00]. Because he had no backup and was in an unpopulated area, Trooper Falvey directed G. Lewis and D. Lewis to return to their vehicle and leave the scene. This order was given for the safety of Trooper Falvey and all involved. After initially protesting, G. Lewis and D. Lewis left the scene. When Trooper Falvey advised E. Lewis that he was under arrest and attempted to place and restrain him in the front passenger seat of Trooper Falvey’s police cruiser, E. Lewis became belligerent and physically resisted. [16:45]. At this time, Trooper Falvey radioed Dispatch and requested assistance. [18:28]. Trooper Falvey was still attempting to place the resisting E. Lewis into the cruiser and buckle him in when G. Lewis and D. Lewis returned to the scene, again stopped in the road and again exited their vehicle. [18:50]. Believing that he had buckled E. Lewis into the front seat of his cruiser, Trooper Falvey stepped to the back of the cruiser and again directed G. Lewis and D. Lewis to return to their vehicle and leave the scene. [19:06]. Unfortunately, E. Lewis had not been buckled in, and he immediately exited the vehicle and began shouting at Trooper Falvey. All three Lewis men ignored repeated commands by Trooper Falvey to return to their respective vehicles (E. Lewis to the police cruiser). All three men continuously shouted expletives at Trooper Falvey and made it clear that they had no intention of following his commands. This placed Trooper Falvey in an untenable position and created a dangerous situation for all four men. Nevertheless, Trooper Falvey never struck any of the Lewis men or used any force beyond the necessary restraining techniques used upon E. Lewis. Eventually, another man pulled up to the scene. [21:00]. Keeping his distance, he asked Trooper Falvey if he needed to call someone to come assist. [21:25]. Trooper Falvey advised him that additional police were already on the way and asked the man to watch G. Lewis and D. Lewis and make sure that they did not attack Trooper Falvey from behind while he worked to place E. Lewis back in the police cruiser. The man agreed, and Trooper Falvey commenced his efforts to place E. Lewis back in the cruiser. E. Lewis physically resisted these efforts, resulting in both E. Lewis and Trooper Falvey falling to the ground. [21:31]. Trooper Falvey immediately worked to secure E. Lewis with his knees and legs so that he (Falvey) would have access to the tools on his belt in case G. Lewis and/or D. Lewis approached him. Eventually, E. Lewis indicated that he would willingly move to the cruiser. [24:13]. Trooper Falvey helped E. Lewis to his feet and brought him back to the passenger side, front seat of the cruiser. E. Lewis again resisted Trooper Falvey’s efforts to place him fully in the vehicle, but Falvey was ultimately able to secure him with the vehicle’s seatbelt. [24:40]. Once E. Lewis was secured in the cruiser, Trooper Falvey approached G. Lewis and D. Lewis, advising both men that they were under arrest. [25:15]. At this time, Trooper Joshua Huhn arrived at the scene and assisted Trooper Falvey with completing his arrests. [26:15]. Trooper Falvey noticed that D. Lewis had a strong odor of intoxicating beverage from his breath and was slurring his speech. D. Lewis admitted to drinking earlier but refused a preliminary breath test (“PBT”). G. Lewis was unable to produce a valid driver’s license, and the tag on his vehicle was expired. E. Lewis indicated that he needed to go to the hospital. [30:27]. Trooper Falvey immediately contacted Dispatch again and requested an ambulance. [30:31]. E. Lewis began violently thrashing around in the police cruiser and damaging equipment therein. [30:55]. Paramedics ultimately arrived on the scene, examined E. Lewis and determined that 1) his vital signs were normal, 2) no injuries were observed and 3) he was medically clear to be transported to jail. Pursuant to MHSP procedure, all three men were ultimately transported to the county’s holding facility, the Pike County Jail. Eugene Lewis was charged with Careless Driving, Seatbelt Violation, Disregard for Traffic Device, Window Tint Violation, No Proof of Insurance, DUI Other 1st Offense, Resisting Arrest, and Failure to Comply. Gary Lewis was charged with two counts of Obstructing a Public Street, Resisting Arrest, Failure to Comply, No Driver’s License on Demand, Seatbelt Violation, Expired Tag, Improperly Displayed Tag, and Window Tint Violation. Derrius Lewis was charged with Resisting Arrest, Failure to Comply, Public Drunkenness, and Disturbing the Peace. “A review of this incident by MBI agents and command staff produced no evidence of criminal conduct by the trooper throughout the encounter,” said Lt. Col. Charles Haynes, Director of MBI. DPS and MHSP take all allegations of excessive force and other employee misconduct seriously. Such allegations will always be investigated and given due consideration. Given the number of traffic stops and other interactions between law enforcement officers and members of the public that occur every day, unpleasant incidents are an unfortunate inevitability. “MHSP’s internal review of this matter revealed no evidence of excessive force,” said Lt. Col. Malachi Sanders, Director of the MHSP Enforcement Division. “All evidence indicates that Trooper Falvey demonstrated exemplary patience, judgment and skill in maintaining the safety of all involved throughout what could have easily become a tragic incident.”

By Kara Kimbrough Deciding to list some of my favorite restaurant dishes around the state was a little concerning. After all, everyone’s tastes are different and what may appeal to me may not be everyone’s idea of heaven on a plate. However, response was positive after the first two installments of can’t-miss dishes on the Gulf Coast and in the Pine Belt, so I’m ready to move on to the Jackson Metro Area. There’s no way I can list them all, but here are a few on my and others’ top places to enjoy a meal or dessert. My first pick is 100% nostalgia-based…I’ve written about Scrooge’s being one of the first restaurants I frequented after moving to Jackson after college. There’s something comforting about knowing the same Scrooge-Burger is still available (the location has changed, but I can get past that) for me whenever the urge to revisit the past arises. Topped with bacon, sauteed onions, mushroom gravy and chili, the massive burger quickly sends me back to a simpler time. Even better, the Scrooge-Burger is as good as the one I remember. Scrooge’s Restaurant & Pub, 5829 Ridgewood Rd., Jackson. 601-206-1211. Another Jackson landmark that has changed locations, but still serves up classic Italian dishes is Cerami’s. Since opening near the Reservoir in 1977, Cerami’s now holds court in Flowood, offering the familiar salad wagon and many of the same dishes, including my favorite, old-school spaghetti and meatballs. Cerami’s, 5417 Lakeland Dr., Flowood. 601-919-2829. If you read my column with any regularity, it’s pretty obvious I frequent Italian restaurants quite often and will choose a pasta meal before almost any other. One of my favorite places to indulge in my favorite cuisine is Biaggi’s in Ridgeland. The menu contains a multitude of delights, but my favorite has to be baked ziti al forno. It’s a delectable dish of pasta, shrimp, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, crispy pancetta, Italian cheese blend and lobster cream sauce. Biaggi’s, 970 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland. 601-354-6600. You can actually indulge in this next treat in either Flowood or Madison – whichever one you choose, the deliciousness translates from one county to the next. Blue-plate specials draw diners from far and near, but it’s a thick slice of caramel cake that attracts me anytime I’m near either of these locations. Along with a hot cup of coffee in a thick Primos mug, it’s the perfect ending to any meal or anytime snack. Primos Café, 2323 Lakeland Dr., Unit A, Flowood. 601-936-3701. Also 250 Baptist Dr., Madison. 601-853-3350. If you’re in Madison and have worked up an appetite, a trip to Mama Hamil’s Southern Cooking & BBQ might be in order. Everyone raves about the massive buffet and sumptuous barbecue, but it’s Mama Hamil’s potato salad that brings me by. Picking up a container to go is never a bad idea anytime a special event is on the horizon. I can make the copycat version, but it’s not the same as the original. Mama Hamil’s, 751 Hwy. 51, Madison. 601-856-4407. Next week, I’ll venture further north to list some Delta delicacies, along with college town favorites. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at kkprco@yahoo.com.