Clarence "Pete" Dixon, Jr. February 1, 1935 - March 25, 2025 Brookhaven, MS Clarence "Pete" Dixon Jr., 90, passed away on March 25, 2025, peacefully at home in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Born to Clarence and Janey Rushing Dixon on February 1, 1935, he spent his life dedicated to his family, faith, and service to others. Pete proudly served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Alaska. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and commitment that carried through every aspect of his life. He was an active member of Gum Grove Baptist Church, where he served as a devoted deacon for many years. Pete also taught Sunday School lessons at Haven Hall Health Care Center every Sunday for over ten years. A man of strong values and unwavering dedication, Pete shared 66 wonderful years with his beloved wife, LaWanda Case. Together, they built a loving family that brought them immense joy. He was passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young student-athletes. His career included thirty-one years in education; 13 years in Franklin County and 18 years in Lincoln County where he was a history teacher and principal. In addition, he coached basketball, baseball, track and football, and had 33 years of experience in being a referee and umpire. An avid golfer, Pete found great enjoyment on the course and made many lifelong friends through the game of golf. He also cherished watching his grandchildren play sports. His love for family was evident in every moment he spent cheering them on from the sidelines. Pete is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, LaWanda, and sons Bob and Ken; grandchildren Karri Smith (Tyler) of Brookhaven, Will Dixon (Miranda) of Gluckstadt, Lee Jones (Brittney) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Rhett Dixon of Jonesboro, Arkansas; and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters Ouida McCaffrey of Bogue Chitto and Anna Case of El Paso, Texas, along with many nieces and nephews. The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by Taylor Roberts, Harley Martin and Cayla McCurley, and the Hospice Compassus staff. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM at Riverwood Family in Brookhaven with funeral to follow at 1 PM. A graveside service will be held at Gum Grove Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery. Pete’s legacy of faith, love, and dedication will live on through those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Gum Grove Baptist Church.

By Bob Garver Poster Credit IMDB Disney’s “Snow White” is the latest live-action remake of one of the studio’s animated classics. In this case, it’s perhaps the biggest “classic” of all, as 1937’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” was the first full-length animated feature in American history, and in 2008 was named the greatest animated film of all time by the American Film Institute. The film’s historical significance is undeniable, but frankly I don’t think it holds up as entertainment. Advancements in both animation and sound recording technology have left that movie in the dust, not to mention that Disney writes their princesses with more complexity these days. So maybe a remake that smooths out some of the rougher edges of the past isn’t a terrible idea. But this movie goes in some directions that are definitely a terrible idea. The story of course hits all the familiar beats. Princess Snow White (Rachel Zegler) is the stepdaughter of the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), who seized control of her kingdom with underhanded tactics. The queen seeks constant validation of her beauty from a Magic Mirror (Patrick Page), until one day when the mirror declares Snow White to be “fairer” than she. The queen freaks out and orders her Huntsman (Ansu Kabia) to take Snow White into the woods and eliminate her. The Huntsman instead affords Snow White the opportunity to escape, and she flees deep into the woods, where she stumbles upon the home of (and I’ll use the Disney spelling) The Seven Dwarfs. She becomes an ally to miners Sneezy, Sleepy, Happy, Grumpy, Dopey, Doc, and Bashful, and she helps them straighten up their cottage as she tries to figure out what to do next. Perhaps the answer lies with the band of loveable bandits led by the charismatic Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) on the outskirts of the woods. Unlike other Disney remakes (looking at you, “Lion King”), there are some strong deviations here from the original film. Zegler’s Snow White cares deeply about the kingdom’s subjects, and we see her pay attention to their stories and needs whenever possible. She takes a more active role in overthrowing the queen, and the third act will be unrecognizable to anyone with the original ending stuck in their heads. There are even new songs, with Zegler’s “Waiting on a Wish” fitting seamlessly into the Disney songbook along other female empowerment anthems like “Let It Go.” The queen herself gets a song, and Gadot wickedly chews the scenery with “All Is Fair.” The film pulls my opinion in two opposite directions. On one hand, there’s Zegler’s performance as Snow White, bringing much-needed life and passion to a character that had previously been dismissed as one of the more useless waifs in the Disney catalogue. I’ll also throw a compliment toward Burnap, playing a better-developed love interest than the unbranded, uninspired prince from 1937. I have to recommend the film based on these elements, right? But then there are the dwarfs. These hideous CGI monstrosities from the depths of the uncanny valley are offensive, not just in the sense that actual dwarf actors could have been cast in these parts (six of the seven voice actors are not dwarves), but offensive to anyone with working eyes. I can’t recommend the film based on these elements, right? I’m going to give “Snow White” the mildest of recommendations just because my expectations were so low going in. There’s been no end of bad publicity surrounding the races, heights, and political stances of the film’s cast, and these live-action remakes have a sour reputation for being lazy retreads of beloved animated properties. I was ready to declare this movie the worst of 2025. Instead I got a valiant, vibrant adaptation that I would sooner watch again for entertainment than the 1937 version. It isn’t perfect, and I completely understand why someone would consider the dwarfs to be deal-breakers for the entire film. But thanks mostly to Zegler, I saw enough Disney magic in the film to give it a pass. Grade: B- “Snow White” is rated PG for violence, some peril, thematic elements and brief rude humor. Its running time is 109 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at  rrg251@nyu.edu .

Send responses to:  andybowman839@gmail.com You are aging, every second you are alive, that is an inescapable fact. And right along with that joyous and party-mood-making pronouncement is another fact. Multiple years of aging most always brings on a certain amount of physical pain. Ready to invite me to your next happy-go-lucky soiree yet?  “Oh yeah, give that woman a mic and let her be the life of the party!” Not so fast to condemn me, my sarcastic friend. All I want to do is help you get armed and ready for your personal one-on-one battle with an enemy that hates you and is determined to take you out. To turn you into a sniveling, angry, pain-controlled shell of the person you used to be. No, I’m not a drug pusher for a big pharmaceutical company. And I’m not telling you to “just pray the pain away.”  Here is what I  am  going to tell you. Don’t concentrate on what hurts. You are giving Old Man Pain a whole bunch more credit than he deserves in your life. Sure, you hurt, I realize that. I hurt too.  I’m not discounting the way the pain surges through whatever part of your body is affected. But I am asking you to deliberately not allow pain to be the most important thing in your life, as much as you possibly can.  Don’t misunderstand me, I’m aware that severe pain has the ability to stand up and scream at you so loudly that not much else gets through to you. But not all hurting in our bodies has that capability. Many times, it just gripes, and gripes, and gripes so long and persistently that we finally just give in and make it the priority in our life. We have volunteered our body, mind and emotions for a whole-sale hostile takeover. DON’T DO THAT! Fight for the right to enjoy your days and nights. Battle that tendency we all have, to just plop ourself down in a sad puddle of self-pity and stare at the offending arm, leg, neck, foot, or whatever, and then whine to ourself about how it has taken over our entire life. WELL, WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO HAPPEN, WHEN YOU GIVE THAT OFFENDING PART OF YOUR BODY THE TOP BILLING IN YOUR MIND?! Decide to take control, as much as possible. Get your mind involved in something else. Anything else. Stick your nose in a great book, glue your eyes onto the tv with a fantastic movie, prop up your pain-filled body part on an ice pack and get involved in a rousing board game with a loved one. Do  something   that will interrupt your concentration on Mr. Pain’s efforts. Now, I am not telling you to never use pain meds – yours truly is not a medical doctor, I don’t have that right. But I do know that our brains have powerful influence on our physical body – and especially at controlling pain. And find a way to laugh. “Laughter doeth good like a medicine,” the Bible says.

By Kara Kimbrough Touch of Grace Southern Biscuits are light, flaky and tender…in short, they’re a little bit of heaven on earth.     The homemade biscuit, a beloved American icon, is on the endangered species list. I blame it on supermarket biscuits marketing themselves as “homemade,” with an “old fashioned buttermilk taste.” In reality, they’re pale spheres of sticky dough ready to spring from their cans offering little more than synthetic butter. Here’s the main reason I’m upset about the neglect of the biscuit. I consider an old-fashioned, no-carbs-barred biscuit one of life’s top necessities. It’s a flaky bite of bliss that we all need now and then.     I could go on and on…a  homemade biscuit is a soft pillow of comfort that makes eases life’s trials. Only the most hard-hearted Southerner would turn down a piping hot, fresh-from-the-oven biscuit. Plain and unadorned or filled with a little homemade jelly, it just doesn’t get any better than a biscuit.     Not many people make homemade biscuits anymore, but it wasn’t always this way. Flip through any cookbook from the 1960’s up until the health-conscious 1990’s and you’ll find page after page of biscuit recipes of every description. Key ingredients included whipping cream, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise and even sourdough starter.      Of course, these fancier versions were predated by real biscuit pioneers, women like my grandmother who made a pan of biscuits each morning with hearty ingredients like shortening, flour, buttermilk and baking powder. These fist-sized balls of buttery goodness were one of the best reasons to get out of bed every morning.     To satisfy both camps – those who cling to their cans and homemade biscuit-lovers short on time or expertise – I can offer three solutions.    First, a recipe from Quail Ridge Press’  Quick & Easy Cookbook  creates surprisingly-good  Quick (and I Mean Quick) Herb Rolls  out of a 12 ounce can of Hungry Jack Biscuits. Yes, they're from a can, but once they're "doctored" a little, all reservations are gone.     For those who revere the art of (almost real) biscuit-making, I'm sharing a simple 3-ingredient recipe from one of my favorite cookbooks,  Best of Bell’s Best .     And last, those who are truly serious about making the BEST homemade biscuit you’ll ever taste in your life – Shirley Corrihor’s recipe for “Touch of Grace” Southern Biscuits found in her cookbook,  BakeWise , is the only biscuit recipe you’ll ever need.     After the movie “ The Help ” premiered, I took a cooking class in which we were tasked with mastering  recipes for the food served in the film. The movie’s culinary director used Shirley’s recipe to create  light, fluffy biscuits.       To achieve this state of deliciousness, she combined extremely wet dough and a steamy oven. I was skeptical as I scooped dough that can only be described as “soupy” with an ice cream scoop into a cast iron skillet. However, the heat of the oven combined with the wet dough in the most delightful way, making me an instant convert to the technique.       The email for “Touch of Grace” biscuits is a little lengthy, so drop me an email if you’d like it and I’ll send it to you.     Whichever biscuit path you take, remember this axiom upon which all Southerners are raised. You can get away with almost anything if you bake hot biscuits. Quick (and I Mean Quick) Herb Rolls 12 ounce can of Hungry Jack Biscuits 1-1/2 teaspoons parsley flakes ½ teaspoon dill weed 1 tablespoon onion flakes 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese    In a 9 x 13 Pyrex dish, melt one stick of butter and add parsley flakes, dill weed, onion flakes and Parmesan cheese. Cut each biscuit in half and roll around in the butter mixture to coat. Place halves in the dish and bake at 425 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Recipe from Quail Ridge Press’ Quick and Easy Cookbook 3 Ingredient Biscuits (adapted from Best of the Best of Bell’s Best Cookbook) 2 cups self-rising flour8 ounces sour cream 1 stick butter, melted (do not use margarine)     Mix all together and spoon into greased muffin tins, filling halfway. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until brown. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Contact her at  kkprco@yahoo.com

By: Misty Strieff Prine   “Even the people who betray you are part of the plan. Jesus couldn’t get to the cross without Judas.” – Steven Furtrick This is probably the most profound lesson a Christian can learn on their journey in life. The people that hurt you in some way, betray your confidence, make you feel less than you are, etc., are all part of God’s building blocks for your testimony. Within each situation you face in your life, a lesson is learned, whether you realize it or not. I can look back on my life now, and believe you me, I couldn’t see it then, but NOW I can see exactly why I had to go through all that extreme hurt and long valleys. Goodness gracious did I, because my testimony wouldn’t be what it is without those people or those situations. Now if you would have told me that years ago, I would’ve probably thought you had bumped your noggin’ as I say often. (I grew up in the south, what can I say!) But I promise you, looking back I see EXACTLY why God had me walk through those valleys because I learned how to overcome very hard times, some of the most difficult situations I’ve ever faced in my life, by people you’d NEVER expect, and I learned how to apply them in my testimony to others and to also apply it to my own self when it happens in the present and it grew my faith by leaps and bounds.                 I know so many right now in our community that are facing giants that need our support more than ever. This world can be a terrible place. I know right now, we Christians need to stand up for what we believe in more than ever before and support our fellow Christian brothers and sisters. We need each other’s support and fellowship greatly. The enemy is on the move, and we have to band together and lift one another up. We need to pray hard every day. Hard times and trials make us stronger and have the power to bring us closer to God. But during those valleys, we need one another’s support. Please, if you know someone that is going through a hard time, and the Lord lays it upon your heart to reach out and minister to them, please act upon that calling. God wouldn’t put that on your heart if He didn’t want you to act on it. He has his reasons and we should never question those. God is always at work in your life through the good and the bad. He’s got you. Just have faith and hold on to Him. Like I always say, look for the lesson, apply it and let God turn it into one of your biggest blessings! **For daily devotionals, you can follow me on Facebook at The Upward Way or on Instagram at the_upward_way.

By Guest Columnist Dr. Stephanie Duguid   Our most recent speaker through the Mississippi Health Ambassador Initiative was Dr. Juebin Huang from The University of Mississippi Medical Center, who discussed neurodegenerative diseases.   Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are among the most complex and devastating health conditions affecting millions of people worldwide, including many here in Mississippi. These diseases progressively destroy brain cells, impairing memory, movement, and overall function. Some of the most common include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease (HD).             In the United States alone, approximately 6.2 million people live with Alzheimer’s, and nearly 1 million are affected by Parkinson’s disease. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward improving care and seeking treatment options for those in need. Neurodegenerative diseases primarily affect two significant areas of function:   Cognitive Disorders: Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia impair memory, reasoning, and communication.  Alzheimer’s accounts for 50-70% of dementia cases.   Motor Disorders: Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and ALS primarily affect movement, coordination, and muscle control.   While these diseases share similarities, their underlying causes and symptoms vary significantly.  Scientists are working hard to find new treatments, and advancements in genetic research and therapy bring hope for better care and management.   Alzheimer’s disease, first described by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906, is characterized by the buildup of plagues and tangles in the brain, which disrupt neural communication. The disease progresses in stages:   Mild:  Memory loss, language difficulties, and mood changes.   Moderate:  Confusion, personality changes, and difficulty completing daily activities.   Severe:  Loss of motor function, inability to communicate, and need for full-time care.   While there is no cure, FDA-approved treatments such as Donepezil (Aricept) and Memantine (Namenda) help manage symptoms. Recently, disease-modifying therapies like Lecanemab (Leqembi) and Donanemab (Kisunla) have shown promise in slowing progression.    Parkinson’s disease, first described in 1817, affects dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Its symptoms include tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance issues. Treatment focuses on restoring dopamine levels through medication, deep brain stimulation, and physical therapy.   Huntington’s disease, a genetic disorder affecting 30,000 Americans, is caused by a mutation in the Huntingtin gene. Symptoms typically appear between the ages of 30 and 50 and include involuntary movements, mood changes, and cognitive decline. Because it is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of developing the disease.   Living with a neurodegenerative disease presents many challenges, but caregivers and families can take important steps to improve quality of life:   Stay Active: Regular physical exercise can help slow progression and maintain mobility.   Healthy Diet:  A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids supports brain health.   Cognitive Stimulation: Reading, puzzles, and social interaction can help preserve cognitive function.   Medication Management: Work closely with a healthcare provider to adjust treatment as needed.   Seek Support: Mississippi offers resources such as The MIND Center, caregiver support groups, and The Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Center.   While neurodegenerative diseases remain incurable, advancements in gene therapy and drug research offer hope. Clinical trials at the HDSA Center of Excellence at UMMC are exploring new treatments, and organizations like the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the ALS Association continue to fund groundbreaking studies.   Mississippi families facing these diseases do not have to navigate them alone. By increasing awareness, supporting research, and expanding access to care, we can improve the lives of those affected and work toward a future where these conditions are more manageable—even preventable.   For more information, visit the HDSA Center of Excellence at UMMC or contact local support organizations. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases.   EDITOR'S NOTE:  Dr. Stephanie Duguid is owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR Classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).  She is also a Mississippi Health Ambassador.

The Co-Lin Foundation inducted nine new members into its Hall of Fame at a banquet held March 20 at the Thames Center on the college's Wesson Campus. Members of the 2024 class pictured were (from left) Keith Thomas, represented by his sister-in-law Glenna Morgan, Janice and Randy Ainsworth, Dr. William Smith, Bob Arnold, and Elise and Terry Munn. The Co-Lin Foundation inducted nine new members into its Hall of Fame at a banquet held March 20 at the Thames Center on the college's Wesson Campus. Those inducted were Mr. and Mrs. Randall Ainsworth of Magee, Bob and Julia Arnold of Wesson, Mr. and Mrs. Terry Munn of Wesson, Dr. William Smith of Brandon, Keith Thomas of The Woodlands, Texas, and the Mississippi Department of Archives & History. Nine Hall of Fame members were also recognized for reaching new giving levels. Peoples Bank of Magee and Puckett Machinery were elevated to Visionary. Dr. Dennis Granberry of Hattiesburg, the Nathan Steele Foundation and PriorityOne Bank of Magee were elevated to Ambassador. Dr. Billy Thames of Madison, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Wojcik of Brookhaven, and the Silver Cross Foundation were elevated to Benefactor. Mr. and Mrs. Randall Ainsworth Mr. and Mrs. Randall Ainsworth were honored for their contributions to the Willie and Rice Ainsworth Memorial Scholarship. Both 1977 Co-Lin graduates, Randy studied electronics technology, and Janice studied liberal arts. Both completed their studies at the University of Southern Mississippi. After 36 years in telecommunications and engineering, Randy retired. Janice worked in business before earning a master's degree in teaching from the Mississippi University for Women. She went on to enjoy a second career in elementary education. They now reside on the Ainsworth family farm in Magee, where they are members of Goodwater Baptist Church. They have two children: a daughter, Rachel of Magee, and a late son, Adam. Bob & Julia Arnold Bob & Julia Arnold were honored for their contributions to the Robert & Julia Arnold Journalism & Communications Studies Scholarship. A graduate of the West Virginia University School of Journalism, Bob started his work in communications as the national and international editor of the Morgantown Dominion News, and then spent 40 years in New York City, where he served as editor of Marketing Times, a business journal published by Sales and Marketing Executives International. He also managed communications programs for many organizations as a public relations practitioner and developed training programs for religious community disaster response ministries at Church World Service. Bob is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America. He has a master's degree in social research from the New School and a PhD in disaster management from St. Regis University. Julia attended New York University and graduated from City University of New York. She worked for 40 years in accounting and office management positions in New York City, beginning with Newsweek and then varied public relations and advertising agencies. The Arnolds retired to Wesson in 2013, where they live on a 30-acre non-working farm. Bob currently is the editor of the Wesson News. Mr. & Mrs. Terry Munn Mr. and Mrs. Terry Munn were honored for their contributions to the Back the Pack Capital Campaign. Terry is a graduate of the commercial truck driving program at Co-Lin and has been the instructor of the program for 22 years. Prior to teaching, he had a driving career and also operated a farm. At Co-Lin, he has received the High Performance and Outstanding Faculty & Staff awards. He has also received the Educator of the Year award from the Wesson Chamber of Commerce and was named Wesson Volunteer of the Year for his contributions to youth sports. He has been on the Copiah County School Board for 12 years and has served as its president for the last 11 years. He is a third-party tester for commercial driver's licenses for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Elise B. Munn is a partner at Berry & Munn, P.A. in Hazlehurst. She is a graduate of Co-Lin (88), the University of Southern Mississippi (90), and the University of Mississippi School of Law (93). In addition to her private practice, she is the county prosecutor and the attorney for the Board of Supervisors in Copiah County. She is a member of the Mississippi Prosecutors' Association and the Mississippi Association of County Board Attorneys, of which she has served as its president and is currently on the Board of Trustees. She has also served on the board of directors of the Southwest Mississippi Child Advocacy Center and is the vice president of the Co-Lin Foundation's Board of Directors. She is also a commissioner of the Mississippi Bar. The Munns have been married since 1993. They have two children: Quentin Munn ('15) and Mary Beth Munn Smith ('19). They are expecting their first grandchild this year. Dr. William Smith Dr. William Smith was honored for his contributions to the Noah "Cap" Wallace Scholarship. Smith, a Wesson native, attended both Co-Lin High School and the College, where he was named to the Co-Lin Hall of Fame in 1974. He attended Millsaps College and graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1979. He had a brief stint in private practice in Texas but returned to Mississippi to join the internal medicine staff at the Jackson Veterans Administration Medical Center in 1983 where he was awarded the title of Fellow of the American College of Physicians. He was also promoted to assistant professor of medicine at UMMC and went on to practice Nephrology at Central Nephrology Clinic serving St. Dominic Memorial Hospital until his retirement in 2016. Smith is married to Camille Brock Nelson and is the father of four children: Mark, Desiree, Diana and Mary-Emma. He also has three stepchildren: Benjamin, AnnaLyn and Leslie, and 11 grandchildren. Keith Thomas Keith Thomas was honored for his contributions to the Carolyn Collums Thomas Scholarship, established in memory of his wife. Carolyn grew up in Brookhaven, where she graduated from Brookhaven High School and the University of Mississippi. She also earned an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport. She worked for Pennzoil in research and development and later as a project manager. Keith was raised in Tishomingo, Oklahoma where he attended Tishomingo schools and obtained an associate of science degree at Murray State College. He graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. He spent most of his career with Pennzoil in research and development, refinery economics, and planning. Keith and Carolyn were married for 47 years until she passed away in 2023. Mississippi Department of Archives & History The Mississippi Department of Archives and History was honored for its contributions to the Natchez Literary & Cinema Celebration. Founded in 1902, MDAH is the second-oldest state department of archives and history in the United States. The department collects, preserves, and provides access to the archival resources of the state and oversees statewide programs for historic preservation, state and local government records management, and publications. MDAH oversees the Museum of Mississippi History, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Eudora Welty House & Garden, Manship House Museum, Old Capitol Museum, and the historic section of the Mississippi Governor's Mansion in Jackson; the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians in Natchez; Historic Jefferson College in Washington, and Winterville Mounds in Greenville. The department also supports projects throughout that state that help preserve Mississippi's diverse historic resources and share them with people around the world. The Co-Lin Foundation Hall of Fame includes individuals and businesses who have donated more than $10,000 to the efforts of the Foundation. The level of Visionary is bestowed on donors who have donated more than $25,0000, Ambassador is awarded to those who have donated more than $50,000, and Benefactor is bestowed on those who have donated more than $100,000. Contributions can be made to the Co-Lin Foundation at P.O. Box 649, Wesson, MS 39191, by calling (601) 643-8313, or online at  www.colin.edu/alumni-foundation .

By Bob Garver Poster Credit IMDB “Novocaine” stars Jack Quaid as Nathan Caine, a man with a condition that makes him unable to feel pain. This is an action movie, and it sounds like a man who can’t feel pain would fit right into the role of action hero, right? Actually, no. Caine’s condition is just terribly inconvenient in his everyday life. He could get cut or burned without realizing it, and if the wound is left untreated, he could get an infection. He doesn’t have the instinct to keep his tongue away from his teeth, so he has to abstain from solid foods or else he could chomp right into his tongue. He can’t even feel the pangs associated with having to go to the bathroom, so he just goes every three hours whether he needs to or not. Caine’s condition has led to social awkwardness, and although he’s nice to people, he has few real friends outside of unseen online gamer Roscoe (Jacob Batalon). But things change when he starts a relationship with fellow bank employee Sherry (Amber Midthunder), who has her own history with physical pain. They go on one date and Caine immediately knows he’s in love with her. He’s at a rare high point in his life at work the next day when a trio of robbers massacre that bank and take Sherry hostage as they flee. The sense of fear and potential loss is the worst feeling Caine has ever had in his life, and he’s going to rescue Sherry no matter what happens to his body in the process. This means getting into a series of fights with the robbers (Evan Hengst, Conrad Kemp, and Ray Nicholson). He’s nowhere near as tough or skilled as they are, but he can use his condition to his advantage. He can get hit, but he can get back up. He can stall for time by taking a beating or enduring torture until help arrives. He can even use weapons that his enemies are too afraid to touch because they’re scalding hot or submerged in a deep fryer. By the way, is it weird that this movie makes me unusually inclined toward cannibalism with a scene where Caine makes his hand extra-crispy? This movie can thank its lucky stars for Jack Quaid, whose sincerity and commitment to the character are the only interesting things about the movie. I was really looking forward to seeing Amber Midthunder again after she carried the “Predator” prequel “Prey” in 2022, but she’s disappointing in a predictable role here. Batalon is just playing a less interesting version of his “Spider-Man” sidekick character. Betty Gabriel has some heartfelt moments as a cop, but her character doesn’t have much impact on the story. Perhaps most disappointing is Ray Nicholson as the lead villain. He was so expressive and unnerving last year in “Smile 2,” but I didn’t get any of that from his bland performance here. I’d have let Conrad Kemp carry the load as primary antagonist, he has some scene-stealing qualities about his face. Caine’s convoluted rescue mission reminded me of the convoluted plot of “Love Hurts” from last month, a movie that I decried while praising Quaid’s performance in “Companion” in the same article. Perhaps it’s appropriate that my opinion of “Novocaine” falls squarely between those two films. This movie could have been a lot more brainless, but I quibble with its predictable story (I guessed one twist just from the trailers), lame characters outside of the lead, and tonal inconsistency. The advertising makes this movie look a lot more comedic than it is. There are gags, to be sure, but there are also long stretches where the movie plays things unexpectedly straight. Not that actors like Quaid and Gabriel aren’t good at playing things straight, but there were times when I noticed I hadn’t laughed for what seemed like several minutes. Like many of the punches Caine takes, this movie wasn’t exactly “painful,” but it certainly didn’t do me much good. Grade: C “Novocaine” is rated R for strong bloody violence, grisly images, and language throughout. Its running time is 110 minutes. Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu .

Send responses to: andybowman839@gmail.com Two elderly sisters, one widowed and the other never married, were living together. They had decided the year before that because the oldest owned her house, the younger should leave a rented apartment and move into her sister’s second bedroom. After the initial “Move over, I’m needing more drawer and closet space than this!” complications were negotiated, they began implementing their plan to coexist in that cozy little home.  It had been decided beforehand the younger sister would pay a reasonable monthly rent, and together they would split the utility, home insurance, and grocery bills. With that arrangement in mind, both felt they would have a fairly adequate idea of their own future financial picture. This worked pretty well the first year, with only a few hiccups disturbing the peace. But then. Younger sister, having always had an extremely soft heart for the hurting and broken people who crossed her path, developed a new passion. She realized that she could help them in her own, albeit, small way. Soon she had her own ministry aimed at providing food for as many as she could fit into her budget, which was admittedly tiny. But of course, word quickly got around the community that help was available in the form of one small fragile woman with a huge golden heart. Her ministry to the hurting and hopeless begin to take on a life of its own. Resulting in more needy people knocking on her door. It wasn’t long before keeping up her share of their household financial commitments was getting impossible. Something obviously had to give. And indeed, something did give. A piece of paper appeared on the older sister’s little desk one day. Hand written at the top was “My Tab.” Underneath that heading was written a small insignificant amount of dollars. Beside that amount was the explanation, “Part of my rent this month.” The subsequent conversation that evening consisted of the younger sister explaining to the older, that due to giving a homeless man money for food that week, and also having refill her own prescriptions, she was going to have to owe her sister a “few dollars toward the rent” until next month. The two sisters had a great relationship and enjoyed living together for the most part, so the oldest easily agreed to waiting. But the end of the month came, and instead of the expected payment, the tab had grown longer. Always just a few dollars, and with a logical explanation written beside each entry. Their warm enjoyable relationship was beginning to cool. Six months later, with an even longer tab, some hot words, and no tangible payment toward the now sizable total, their former comfortable relationship turned into an ongoing chilly standoff. It is a good thing to give help to the hurting. But not at the expense of neglecting your own obligations. Your reputation gets damaged. So does personal relationships.

By Guest Columnist Eddie Smith    I recently saw two grand weeping yaupon hollies growing at a business in Columbia, Mississippi, and was reminded of how useful these trees are in the landscape. Their graceful, cascading branches and finely textured foliage created an elegant presence.            In fall and winter, weeping yaupon hollies are adorned with abundant bright red berries, which stand out beautifully against the deep green foliage. These berries add an important splash of color to the seasonal landscape.            This fruit persists well into winter, attracting bird species such as mockingbirds, cedar waxwings, robins and bluebirds. These birds eagerly feast on the berries during colder months when other food sources are scarce.             Additionally, the dense branching structure provides excellent shelter and nesting sites for small birds, offering protection from predators and harsh weather.     This North American native is well suited for our warm Southern climates.   It grows best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages more dense growth and better berry production. The plant adapts well to sandy, loam or clay soils, as long as the soil of choice is well-draining.   Another impressive feature of this tree is its drought tolerance once established. It also can handle occasional wet conditions, making it a versatile choice for landscapes with varying moisture levels.            While it can be pruned to shape, it naturally maintains its elegant, weeping habit without much intervention. It’s also highly resistant to pests and diseases, which makes it even more appealing as a durable landscape choice. It has varied landscape uses.   It works beautifully as a specimen tree, where its unique form can be fully appreciated as a focal point in gardens, courtyards or entryways. It also can be used in foundation plantings to soften the edges of buildings with its flowing branches.   It is particularly effective in coastal landscapes, where its heat, humidity and salt tolerance allow it to thrive. It performs well in naturalized settings, blending seamlessly with native plantings, or even in Japanese-inspired gardens, where its cascading branches contribute to a serene atmosphere.             For those looking to include the plant in a smaller space, weeping yaupon holly can be trained into a patio tree or grown in large containers. EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Eddie Smith is a gardening specialist and Pearl River County coordinator with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.  He is also host of the popular Southern Gardening television program.  Locate Southern Gardening products online at  http://extension.msstate.edu/shows/southern-gardening .

By: Kara Kimbrough Strawberry shortcake made with homemade shortbread and whipped cream is the perfect spring dessert. The official start of spring is this week...this fact alone should be cause for celebration. After all, what’s not to love about spring? We’re in all-too-short balmy window before summer’s oppressive heat descends and stays around until mid-fall.  Within that window are several entertaining opportunities, including celebrating Easter, high school or college graduations, Mother’s Day and much more. One thing I’ve picked up from hearing friends discuss spring milestones that warrant a gathering of friends and family is that they’re afraid their home, budget or cooking skills aren’t “good enough” to meet others’ expectations. Here’s the honest truth about these types of beliefs: if they’re really friends (and family should go without saying), they don’t care about being served elaborate food or being entertained in a showplace. They simply appreciate being invited into your home to enjoy food and fellowship. In fact, they often won’t remember the food you served, but will never forget the time they spent in your home as the honoree or invited guest. A tip I’ve picked up from years of interviewing caterers, party planners and hostesses is to keep it simple. This rule of thumb applies to the main entree, sides, dessert and most of all, your plans. At this time of year, guests are not looking for  heavy dishes served in colder months. Just following this tip simplifies the process, cuts expenses and makes entertaining doable for anyone. A number of light dishes exist that can be easily doubled or tripled, depending on the size of your crowd.  A large skillet of grilled chicken, rice and vegetables can feed the multitudes and doesn’t require more than a green salad and slices of garlic bread or garlic-cheese biscuits to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. For a ladies-only gathering, a bowl of chicken, shrimp or pasta salad is easy to stir together and is “plenty,” especially when served with a pretty charcuterie board of sliced vegetables, dips, crackers, sliced bread and cheeses. For dessert, a simple strawberry shortcake that tastes more like shortbread is easy to create, especially if you choose to use Cool Whip (just make sure to throw away the container!) instead of making homemade whipping cream. As special occasions and milestones arise, remember that they deserve to be celebrated. Just follow my advice for a seamless meal: forget about the aesthetics of your home and remember that the memories of simple, but delicious food and your warm hospitality will linger long after the celebration is over. Spring One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables 3 chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise if they’re very thick) 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon salt and pepper 3 garlic cloves or 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 small yellow onion 2 cups broccoli florets (if frozen, thaw beforehand) 1 cup yellow rice 4 cups chicken stock 8-ounce cream cheese cup frozen peas 1/2 lemon, juiced Parmesan cheese (for topping) Sprinkle of red pepper flakes (for topping) Finely mince the garlic (if using fresh), chop broccoli into small pieces, and mince the parsley. Prep chicken by cutting off any fat or tendons. Season well with seasonings. Add oil to skillet and fry chicken on medium heat for a few minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and cover, set aside. In the same pan on medium heat add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2 minutes before adding the garlic and broccoli. Continue sautéing for a few more minutes until vegetables are slightly soft and fragrant. Add in the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly browned. Pour in the chicken stock and mix well. Turn heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. Once most of the liquid has been absorbed add cream cheese and frozen peas. Mix well. Next add the juice of half a lemon, and additional Italian seasoning and salt & pepper to taste. Slice cooked chicken into 3-inch pieces and place on top of rice and vegetables. Add fresh parsley, grated parmesan, and red pepper flakes, if desired. (Recipe doubles easily) Strawberry Shortcake 1 stick butter, softened 2/3 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup milk 1 egg 1 vanilla extract 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt Strawberries ½ pound sliced fresh strawberries Whipping cream: 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup powder sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract Start by whipping heavy cream in a stand mixer until soft peaks form. Add vanilla and powdered sugar and mix until peaks stiffen (about 2 minutes). Refrigerate until ready to use. To make cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl mix butter and sugar before adding in egg and vanilla extract. Mix well then add in milk. Once wet ingredients are incorporated, add in dry ingredients and fold to combine. Transfer batter to a lined 9-inch cake tin and bake on 350F for 23-25 minutes. Allow cake to cool completely before creating individual servings by using round biscuit cutters or cutting into squares. Top one layer of cake whipping cream and fresh strawberries, then add another layer for an extra generous serving. Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at  kkprco@yahoo.com .

Special to Wesson News   The Wesson Chamber of Commerce will host its annual awards presentation at banquet on Thursday, March 27, at the Co-Lin Thames Center.   In recent years, the Chamber has presented the awards in a special ceremony without a meal served, but is reviving its banquet format this year.   Awards will honor a person, business and service organization of the year; a teacher, police officer and fire fighter and others who contribute to the community.   Feature speakers will be Chamber president Teri Bath, Mayor Alton Shaw, Wesson Police Chief Chad O’Quinn and Wesson Fire Chief Ken Carraway.   The event will start with a meet and greet at 5 p.m. followed by the banquet at 6 p.m.  Cost is $35 per person or $210 for a table of six.   RSVP with Teri Bath at 601-757-3949.