SUMMARY: The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) will implement a high-visibility patrolling plan during the 2024 Independence Day Holiday Travel Period, starting Thursday, July 4 at 6:00 a.m. and ending Sunday, July 7 at midnight. Efforts aim to promote safe travel and reduce fatal crashes through measures such as monitoring for speeding, distracted driving, and using safety checkpoints for seatbelt enforcement and removing impaired drivers. Sean Tindell, Mississippi DPS Commissioner, emphasized the importance of safety. In 2023, MHP reported 76 crashes, four fatalities, 49 DUI arrests, and 508 citations for occupant restraint violations during the holiday period.

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SUMMARY: Byhalia, Mississippi, held its first town hall meeting following the arrest of Alderwoman Delainer Richmond, who was charged after police allegedly found illegal drugs and guns in her home. The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and Byhalia Police seized marijuana plants, methamphetamine, guns, and ammunition from her residence. During the meeting, no allegations against Richmond were addressed publicly, although the mayor expressed ongoing support for her. Despite some criticisms, the meeting's overall consensus of support overshadowed the critics. NAACP Vice President Antoine Lester and other community members vouched for Richmond's integrity, arguing for withholding judgment until all facts are known.

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SUMMARY: In Central Mississippi, oak trees are being threatened by an outbreak of variable oak leaf caterpillars and hypoxylon canker, a damaging fungus. The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) reports these native pests are exacerbating drought stress experienced by trees from the previous year. The caterpillars cause significant defoliation, weakening trees and making them more susceptible to the often-fatal canker. Reports of infestations are prevalent in areas like Flora, Pocahontas, and Raymond. Experts advise landowners to monitor their forests and take steps to promote tree health. Residents should consult MFC specialists or ISA-certified arborists for protection strategies.

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