Issuu

OWN THE ROAD

2025

Telluride

• EPA-est. 26 MPG HWY

• 3.8L V6 Engine w/ 291 hp & 5,000 lb Towing Capacity

• Blind-Spot Detection

• Rear Occupant Alert / Ultrasonic Sensors

• 8-passenger Seating

• Smart Key w/ Push Bu on Start & Remote Start

Carnival

• EPA-est. 26 MPG HWY

• 3.5L V6 Engine w/ 287 hp & 260 lb- of Torque

• 12.3-inch Touchscreen Display

• Blind-Spot Detection

• Rear Occupant Alert / Ultrasonic Sensors

• 7-passenger Seating

• Smart Key w/ Push Bu on Start & Remote Start

PUBLISHER

Robert Blankenship

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tayler Dailey

PHOTOGRAPHY

Thomas Howard

ADVERTISING

Lisa Webb

Tayler Dailey

DISTRIBUTION

Bobby Fields

Meridian Magazine, a publication of MeridianNewsMedia©, is published six times a year.

814 22nd Ave. Meridian, MS 39301 601.693.1551

Comments or editorial content, including photos, should be sent to tayler.dailey@meridianstar.com. Meridian Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions.

Reproduction or use of any content in this publication for any manner without permission is prohibited.

Meridian Magazine can be found online at meridianstar.com.

Rush named Best Orthopaedic Doctor in Reader’s Choice

Mitchell’s Wreck and Tire; a family affair that racks up

Photo by Thomas Howard

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcometo this year’s Readers’ Choice Winners Edition of Meridian Magazine. This has been a banner year for the Meridian Star’s annual contest, which aims to recognize the very best our community has to offer.

Inside this magazine you will see winners with a long history of bringing home the most votes as well as newcomers who have quickly established themselves as local favorites.

We want to thank all of our print and digital readers who participated in this year’s Readers’ Choice and shared your opinions on those businesses, organizations, and individuals who go above and beyond, both in their work and for our community.

A big congratulations to this year’s winners and to all of those who were nominated and received votes. It was certainly a competitive year with vote counts in many categories being extremely close.

This year’s Readers’ Choice began June 30 with the nomination phase when readers nominated their favorite businesses in each category. Over a three-week period, almost 7,300 nominations were received and the top three in each category moved into the voting phase of the competition. Some categories had more nominees due to ties.

On July 21, the voting phase began among the top nominees. Almost 6,000 people voted, resulting in a total vote count of 148,173. The results of those votes are published here in this special Readers’ Choice edition of Meridian Magazine.

This year’s contest featured seven main categories, including food, entertainment and lifestyle, health and services, professional, retail, and a group of special awards.

Thanks again to our readers who took the time to participate and congratulations to this year’s winners. Keep up the great work!

Robert Blankenship Publisher, Meridian Magazine

LAZY ACRES: FALL ON THE FARM

Sept 27 - Nov 1, 2025

10:00am

Lazy Acres

LEAN ON ME JUBLIEE

Sept 27, 2025

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

The MAX

ROSE HILL CEMETARY COSTUMED TOUR

Sept 27, 2025

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Rose Hill Cememtary

THE WIZARD OF OZ

Oct 2-5, 2025

Meridian Little Theatre meridianlittletheatre.com

FULL MOON ON 5TH

Oct 3, 2025

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

5th Street - Downtown

PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL

Oct 4, 2025

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Downtown Meridian

EARTH'S BOUNTY

Oct 4, 2025

8:00am – 5:00pm

The MAX

ocallive &

Live & Local is your go-to guide for everything happening in our community! From concerts and festivals to art shows and local markets, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best events in town. Stay connected, support local, and never miss out on what makes our hometown special.

CANVASES FOR CANCER

Oct 9, 2025

6:00pm - 8:30pm

MSU Riley Center

ART CRAWL

Oct 9, 2025

5:00pm - 8:00pm

Downtown Meridian

SINNERS (2025)

- FREE SCREENING

Oct 15, 2025

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Temple Theatre

LETS TALK ABOUT "SINNERS"

Oct 16, 2025

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The MAX

10TH ANNUAL BUD & BURGERS

Oct 18, 2025

2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

City Hall Lawn

STRAIGHT NO CHASER

Oct 23, 2025

7:30 pm

MSU Riley Center

BLACK FOLKLORE FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA TO YALE UNIVERSITY

Oct 25, 2025

10:00am – 12:00pm

The MAX

SOULE LIVE STEAM SHOW

Oct 31 - Nov 1, 2025

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Soule Stream Feed Works

WHISTLESTOP WEEKEND SCREENING OF "THIS PROP ERTY IS CONDEMNED"

Nov 1, 2025

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

The MAX

RAILFEST

Nov 1, 2025

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Meridian Railroad Museum

EARTH'S BOUNTY

Nov 1, 2025

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

The MAX

SCULPTING WITH "DA CAKE GOAT"

Oct 11, 2025

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

THE MAX

MERRY NIGHTMARKET

Nov 25, 2025

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

The MAX

The 2025 Readers' Choice Winners are...

FOOD & DRINK APPETIZER

Outback Steakhouse

The Rustler

Weidmann’s

ASIAN FOOD

Aie’s Taste of Thai

Oishi

Sake Sushi

BAR

Weidmann’s

Ducks Hideaway

Mariann Kelley - Kems at Holiday Inn

BARBECUE

Rib Shack

Country Boys Farm to Table T8 Fish and Smokehouse

BARTENDER

Mark Lewis - The Rustler

Nick Majkrzak - Northwood Country Club

Destiny Bailey - Applebees

BREAKFAST

Eggs Up Grill

Mr. Rodgers Daily Grind

BUFFET & SALAD BAR

Western Sizzlin

China Buffet

Diamond Jim’s

CATERER

Carolyn’s Creations

Piggly Wiggly of Collinsville

Pretty Presentations

CATFISH

Okatibbee Fish Camp

Zac’s Catfish and Chicken

Little Griddle

COFFEE

PJ’s Coffee

Daily Grind

2810 Coffee

CRAWFISH

Don P’s Taste of Bayou

Seafood Express

Pinchin' Tails

DELI/ SANDWICH SHOP

The Back Porch of Meridian

Cater’s Market

Jersey Mike’s Subs

DESSERT

Ashley’s Sweet Treats

Crumbl Cookie

Weidmann’s

DONUTS

Lee’s Donuts

USA Donuts

FAMILY RESTAURANT

Jean’s

The Back Porch of Meridian

Red Hot Diner

FAST FOOD

Chick-Fil-A

Little Griddle

Jersey Mike’s Subs

FINE DINING

The Rustler

Weidmann’s

Harvest Grill

FRIED CHICKEN

Raising Cane’s

Popeyes

Jean’s

HAMBURGER

Kewanee One Stop

Mugshots

The Back Porch of Meridian

HOME COOKING

Jean’s

Southern Fryers

Western Sizzlin

FOOD & DRINK

Baskin Robbins

The Scoop Co.

Sno Biz

MARGARITA/COCKTAIL

MEXICAN FOOD

San Marco’s

La Pinata

Monarca

PIZZA

Nic & Al’s

Pizza Hut

Papa Johns

PLACE TO GET A BEER

Threefoot Brewing

Ducks Hideaway

Back 9 Grill at Briarwood

PRODUCE

Mathis Peaches and Produce

Aldi

Winn Dixie

WAIT STAFF

The Rustler

Weidmann’s

Mariann Kelley - Kems

SEAFOOD

Don P’s Taste of Bayou

Seafood Express

Country Boys Farm to Table

SNOW CONES

Sno Biz

Snow Sweeties

Snow Queen

STEAKS

The Rustler

Diamond Jim’s

Outback Steakhouse

SWEET TEA

McAllister’s

The Back Porch of Meridian

Jean’s

WINGS

VLounge

Buffalo Wild Wings

Back 9 Grill at Briarwood

San

Back

Weidmann’s

BARBER

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

Jordan Mathis - Haven Salon

Tee the Barber - Exclusive Cuts

Rusty Peek - Final Cut Salon

CHEER & GYMNASTICS

Excel

EMC

Carol Merrill Academy of Dance

DANCE STUDIO

Encore Dance Company

Carol Merrill Academy of Dance

Suzie McCraw School of Dance

EVENT CENTER

The MAX

Copeland Center

MSU Riley Center

GOLF COURSE & COUNTRY CLUB

Briarwood Country Club

Northwood Country Club

Lakeview Golf Course

HAIR STYLIST

Jamie Ainsworth - Haven Salon

Katie Anderson - Haven Salon

Kristin Williams - Haven Salon

MUSEUM

MS Children's Museum - Meridian

The MAX

Meridian Museum of Art

NAIL TECH

Hein - Exquisite Nails

Kayla - Haven Salon

Traci Williams - Nail Connection

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

PET GROOMER

Austin Spears - Collinsville Groom Room

Precious Paws Grooming

Hillside Grooming

PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS

MS Children's Museum - Meridian

Planet Playground

SALON & SPA

Haven Salon

Pampered Bodies

Renew Salon & Spa

TANNING SALON

Gracie Grogan - Sunkissed by Gracie

Haven Salon

Ultimate Tan

TATTOO SHOP

Creative Pain

Meridian Tattoo

Spacey’s RockNRoll Tattoo

VETERINARIAN

Till Newell Animal Hospital

Tyson Pompelia

Poplar Springs Animal Hospital

WEDDING VENUE

Castle Grove

The Orchard at Mathis Farms

Copeland Center

&

Dr. Jennifer Rodriquez - CIS

Dr. Shea Hailey - CIS

Dr. Thomas Plavac - CIS

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. John Miller - Miller Chiropractic

Dr. Hunter - Meridian Chiropractic

Dr. McArthur - McArthur Chiropractic

DENTAL HYGIENIST

Haylee Hagwood - Dr. Williams Woods

Jessica Goldman - Smile Center

Amber Robinson - Meridian Pediatric

DENTIST

Adam Weathers - Smile Center

Dr. William Woods

Dr. Ross McCarty - McCarty Dentistry

DERMATOLOGIST

Dr. Kenneth Saul - Saul Dermatology

Dr. Katy Matthews

Dr. Logan Rush

DOCTOR

Dr. Chris Swift

Dr. Douglas Phillips - MMA

Dr. Barbara Goodman - Clarkdale Clinic

EYE CARE CENTER

Eye Clinic of Meridian

Primary Eye Care

Meridian Eye Care

HEALTH & FITNESS

Baptist Healthplex

Planet Fitness

Club4 Fitness

HEALTH & MEDICAL

HEARING AID CENTER

Dr. Stacy Blalock

Ochsner Rush

Hear Again

HOME CARE SERVICES

Home Instead

Southern Home Care

Serenity Home Care

HOME HEALTH

Accent Care

Centerwell Home Health

Deaconess Home Health

HOSPICE

Compassus

Harper’s Hospice

Gentiva

HOSPITAL

Baptist Anderson

Ochsner Rush

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Dr. Chris Swift

Internal Medicine Clinic

Dr. Anthony Thomas

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Karen Dukes - Meridian Massage

Allison Morris - Pampered Bodies

Chanda Harrod - Renew Salon & Spa

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Queen City Medical

The Medical Store

Health Now

Chosen by readers. Driven by care.

Congratulations to our award-winning providers and locations

We’re proud to share that The Meridian Star readers have chosen Ochsner Rush Health providers and locations as their favorites in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Thank you to our dedicated doctors, nurses, and care teams for delivering the exceptional care our community trusts — and thank you to everyone who voted to recognize their hard work and compassion.

HEALTH & MEDICAL

MENTAL HEALTH

PROVIDER

Jennifer Whitcomb

Jessica Richardson

Weems Community Mental Health

NURSE

Emmi Burgess Haney

Ben Leake - Baptist Anderson

Brooke Tanner - Baptist Anderson

NURSE PRACTITIONER

Shannon Gibbs - Ochsner Rush

Casey Tillery - Internal Medicine Clinic

Renee Quinn - Ochsner Rush

OB/GYN

Alyse Boswell

Daniel McKiever

Dr. Virgina Nelson

OPTICIAN

Ellis Optical

Randy Evans

Donnie Grayson

OPTOMETRIST

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Dr. Cassie Confait

Dr. Jonathan Moore

Dr. Robert Smith

ORAL SURGEON

Dr. Asif Lala

Dr. Eric Herrington

Dr. Joel Drummond

ORTHODONTIST

Dr. John Hodge

Dr. Shelley McDonald

Dr. Kevin Douglas

ORTHOPEDIC

Dr. Lane Rush

Dr. Irvin Martin

Dr. Harry Durgin

PAIN SPECIALIST

Dr. Eric Pearson - Total Pain Care

Dr. Azhar Pasha - Pain Management

Dr. Carol Harris - Ochsner Rush

PEDIATRICIAN

Dr. Deana Price

Dr. William Justice

Dr. Lara Ross

PHARMACIST

Drew Moffett

Stephen Poole

David Neal

PHARMACY

PEDIATRIC DENTAL HYGIENIST

Tiffani Manchew

Amber Robinson

Sarah Tucker

PEDIATRIC DENTIST

Dr. Britt McCarty

Dr. Shelley McDonald

Baptist Anderson Pharmacy

Ole Towne Pharmacy

Ochsner Rush Pharmacy

PHYSICAL/

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Chris Morgan - Synergy

Joey Williams - Ochsner Rush

Kayla Mowdy - Future Family

PHYSICIANS ASSISTANT

Casey Tillery

Nicole Lott

Kenny Richardson

PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr. Lee Thornton

Dr. Mark Elliot

PODIATRIST

Dr. Lee White

Dr. Scott Hanegan

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER

Dr. Chris Swift

Erin Cooley

Tiffany Dearman

REHABILITATION CENTER

North Pointe Health & Rehab

Tom C. Maynor Rehab Center

Beyond Therapy for Kids

GOODS & SERVICES

ADULT DAY CARE

New Beginnings

Caring Hearts

APARTMENT COMPLEX

The Woodlands

North Wood Apartments

North Ridge Apartments

ASSISTED LIVING

Aldersgate

The Preserve

Brookdale

ATV/MOTORCYCLE

Meridian Cylces

Red Hot Powersports

DOC’s ATV

AUTO SERVICE & REPAIR SHOP

Mitchell Tire and Wrecker Service

Chet’s Paint and Body Shop

Hyundai of Meridian

AWARD/TROPHY SHOP

All-Star Team Sports

Burton Awards

BUILDER/CONTRACTOR

Morgan LLC

Kenny Wade Construction

Trey Clayton Fence Building

CAR WASH

North Hills Car Wash

Rainforest Car Wash

Mr. Car Wash

HVAC COMPANY

Josh Junkins - Eagle Heat & Air

Robinson Heating & Air

Heblon Heating & Air

INTERIOR DESIGNER

Allison Hannah

Hallie Ward Interiors

LANDSCAPING

Bynums’s Lawn Services

Magnolia Green

Marlow’s Lawn Services

LAWN CARE SERVICE

Bynum’s Lawn Service

Marlow’s Lawn Services

Magnolia Green

MECHANIC

Steve Waltman - Meridian Tire & Break

Travis Moore - Hyundai of Meridian

Noah McWhirter - Mitchell Tire

MOSQUITO

YARD CONTROL

Billy Touchstone

Stark Exterminators

Mosquito Marshall

NURSING HOME HOME

North Pointe Health & Rehab

Poplar Springs Nursing Center

Queen City Nursing

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL PAINTER

Clint Earnhart - Paint Pros

Shon McBryer - Shon’s Painting

Justin Clearman - ACO Painting

PEST CONTROL

Touchstone Pest Control

Stark Exterminators

Orkin Pest Control

PLUMBER

Barber & Sons Plumbing

Brandon Leftwich

John Brands

SCREEN PRINTER

Sleepy T’s

All-Star Team Sports

Screening Room

A+ Storage

Interstate Storage

PROFESSIONAL

ACCOUNTING FIRM

Culpepper Culpepper & Hurtt

Angie Shirley CPA

Rea Shaw Giffin & Stuart LLP

ARCHITECT

Arjen Lagendijk

D+P Architects

LPK Architects

ATTORNEY/LAWYER

K. Dustin Markham

Witherspoon & Compton

Tommy Horne

BANK

Citizens Nation Bank

Community Bank of Mississippi Regions

CIVIC ORGANIZATION

The Carter Foundation

Center for Pregnancy Choices

Junior Auxiliary of Meridian

CLERGY

Dr. Wade Phillips - Northcrest Baptist

JJ Nelson - Collinsville FBC

Will Wall - First Baptist of Meridian

CPA ACCOUNTANT

Jonda Henry

Angie Shirley

Tommy Hurtt

CREDIT UNION

Meridian Mutual

1st Mississippi Federal Credit Union

Muna Federal

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Devon Pruitt - The Piedmont Group

Harold Harris - Trustmark

Stewart Crawford - Summit Wealth Group

FLORAL DESIGNER

Albree Florey - World of Flowers

Kailie Dunlap - Honeysuckles

Blake Barham - Threefoot Blooms

FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Clint Walker - Robert Barham

Amanda Carney - Webb & Stephens

Lou Wright - Wright’s Funeral Home

INSURANCE AGENCY

Insurance Solutions of Mississippi

Jeffery Wilson State Farm

Farm Bureau

INSURANCE AGENT

Jeffery Wilson - State Farm

Scott Gray - Insurnace Solutions

Jamie Thompson - Southgroup

LAW FIRM

K. Dustin Markham Attorney at Law

Witherspoon & Compton

McNair Law Firm

MORTGAGE COMPANY

Citizens National Bank Commercial Bank Trustmark Bank REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Hill Real Estate Group

Winstead Realty Dwell Real Estate

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Jacob Smith - Hill Real Estate

Laurie Cobb - Pigford & Corey

Paula Richards - Dwell Real Estate

REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Patrick Stubbs - Pine Belt Land & Title

RECEPTIONIST

Tonya Spivey - Meridian Chiropractic

Morgan Blackwell - Haven Salon

Alex Smith - CFPC

SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Tory Shirley - W. Lauderdale Ele.

Elliot Brewer - W. Lauderdale Middle

Jamie Morphis - Russell Christian

Shea

Lauri

ANTIQUE STORE

Atrium Mini Mall

Family Flea Market

Highway 45 Flea Market

APPLIANCE STORE

Lowes

Cowboy Maloney’s

Southern Pipe

AUTO SALES PERSON

Adrien Davis - Hyundai of Meridian

Tyler Walker - Toyota of Meridian

Ethan Brantley - Toyota of Meridian

BOUTIQUE

Libby’s Closet Boutique

Southern Accents

I Just Have To Have It

CAR RENTAL

U-Save Auto Rental

Toyota of Meridian

Enterprise

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

Magnolia Baby 3D/4D Ultrasound

Over The Moon Children’s Boutique

The Children’s Place

FLORIST

Albree Florey - World of Flowers

Honeysuckles

Threefoot Blooms

FRAME SHOP

Custom Frame & Gift

Michael’s custom framing

EJR Frames, Produce & Things

FURNITURE STORE

Woodstock

The Back Porch of Meridian

Troy Brand Furniture

GARDEN CENTER

Al’s Garden & Gift

Plant The Earth

Night’s Nursery

GIFT SHOP

Al's Garden & Gift

Baptist Anderson Pharmacy

The Back Porch of Meridian

HOME DECOR

Al's Garden & Gift

Southern Accents

The Back Porch of Meridian

JEWELRY

Harry

Loeb's

Twisted

LIQUOR

NEW

Toyota

Honda

Hyundai

OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Purvis

OFFICE SUPPLIES

Southern Business Supply

Office Depot

Safeguard Printing

PAINT STORE

The Paint Store @ North Hills

ACE Hardware

Sherwin Williams

PHOTOGRAPHER

Shonda Nance

Jamard Wright

Hope Nolan

PORTABLE BUILDINGS

Dixie Buildings

Chatham Enterprises

American Portable Buildings

SHOE STORE

Name Brand Shoes

Shoe Department

Meridian Footwear

SPORTING GOODS STORE

601 Sports Academy

Rock House Gun and Pawnw

SUPERMARKET

Piggly Wiggly - Collinsville Aldi

The Back Porch of Meridian

TIRE SHOP

Mitchell Tire and Wrecker

Chisolm Tire

Steve Waltmen - Meridian Tire & Break

USED CAR DEALER

Bo Haarala Autoplex

Hyundai of Meridian

Gary Riley - G & S Auto Sales

WOMEN'S CLOTHING STORE

Belle G

Inner Celebrity Boutique

Libby's Closet Boutique

WRECKER SERVICE

Mitchell Tire

Lewis Wrecker

Simmons Wrecker

SPECIAL AWARDS

BEST BOSS

Al Davis - Al's Garden & Gift

Quentin Mitchell - Mitchell Tire

Michael McKenzie - Hyundai of Meridian

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

Al's Garden & Gift

Diana Mitchell - Mitchell Tire and Wrecker

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Magnolia Baby 3D/4D Ultrasound

Don P's Taste of Bayou

Line Thirty-Nine Nutrition

Fantasy Cottage BEST NON- PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Center for Pregnancy Choices

Roadside Rescue

Jimmie Rodgers

BEST LOCAL BUSINESS

Al's Garden & Gift

The Back Porch of Meridian

Honeysuckles

BEST LOCAL EVENT

Sipp & Savor

Full Moon on 5th

Threefoot Festival

Mobile Imaging, LLC

Al's Garden & Gift

The Back Porch of Meridian

Rush named Best Orthopaedic Doctor in Reader’s Choice 2025

By Thomas Howard thomas.howard@meridianstar.com

As medicine has evolved, more and more ailments are able to be treated in a clinic setting and more and more surgeries are able to be done in an outpatient setting. For many, treatment outside the bounds of a traditional hospital has great appeal.

That is exactly what Dr. Lane Rush and his fellow orthopaedic doctors were hearing from their patients and what they set out to provide when they opened Meridian Orthopaedic Specialists in June.

"We just really had a vision for a community focused orthopaedic practice, and we felt that in order to do that, we really wanted to be grounded in a local community mindset," he said.

Rush was selected as this year's Best Orthopaedic Doctor in The Meridian Star's annual Reader's Choice competition.

Orthopaedics is a broad field, and the doctors at Meridian Orthopaedic Specialists have a wide range of knowledge to treat an array of injuries, Rush said. Each day brings something new, and it's not uncommon to see a 90-year-old in the waiting room next to a 2-year-old.

"We offer a huge variety of services and patients," he said. "You never know what's going to walk through the door, which is kind of exciting, and I feel like we're well positioned to kind of take care of just about everything that comes through the door."

Rush said orthopaedics is broadly the practice of "treating bone and joint injuries," which can cover a lot of ground, and the clinic can see everything from a local high school athlete hurt on the field to a senior citizen needing a new hip.

"I'm a sports medicine fellowship trained doctor. That's kind of what my emphasis truly is, doing a lot of shoulder, knee and hip surgery to be honest with you, but we've got partners that focus on neck and back surgery, for instance. I've got partners that the total knees and hip replacements type surgery," he said.

In opening the practice, Rush said he and his partners looked at similar situations in other cities throughout Mississippi that had found success, and worked to incorporate those ideas into their plan for Meridian.

Meridian Orthopaedic Specialists' location on Highway 39 was also a great find, Rush said, as it had a full ambulatory surgery facility in the back. The surgery center allows doctors to perform surgeries anywhere from total hip replacements to a small carpal tunnel surgery.

"That's been probably one of the biggest drivers in our field in terms of providing quality care while keeping costs down, too," he said.

In the near future, Rush said Meridian Orthopaedics Specialists is looking to grow its surgery capabilities to be able to treat even more injuries and help more patients.

Since opening, Rush said the clinic has seen success with the community supporting the doctors' vision for orthopaedic care. Many of the practices implemented in the clinic came from years of hearing from patients in a more traditional hospital setting, and making those changes has paid off.

When not seeing patients or in the operating room, Rush also puts his training to work in the community. Area residents can spot him on the sidelines at local football games tending to any injured

players, and it's not uncommon for him to make a quick call to the pickleball courts near his home to check on someone when needed.

In his free time, Rush also coaches peewee football and enjoys attending Ole Miss Rebels and New Orleans Saints games.

For the community, Rush said he wants to make sure residents know Meridian Orthopaedics Specialists is available to help. Whether it’s an injury on the football field, a misstep off the curb or a knee worn out by a lifetime of walking, the doctors at the clinic have the tools and expertise to get patients back on their feet as soon as possible.

And, Rush said, patients don’t even have to leave town.

For more information about Meridian Orthopaedic Specialists find them on Facebook or call 601-385-9111. The clinic is located at 5002 Highway 39 N., Building C.

Mitchell’s Wreck and Tire; a family affair that racks up awards

By Angela H. Cutrer

About 15 years ago, the Mitchell family decided to do a thing: Open a shop in Collinsville.

It's been so wildly successful that the community voted Mitchell Wrecker and Tire a myriad of accolades in the Meridian Star’s 2025 Reader’s Choice competition and it’s all because of the personnel, which includes mom, Diana, and son, Quentin Mitchell.

“We love our customers,” Quentin said of his clientele. “Sure, they start off as customers, but they become family.”

The annual Reader’s Choice competition allows the public to nominate favorites in a wide variety of categories. Mitchell Wrecker and Tire won first place in the wrecker shop category, as well as best tire shop, and best auto and repair shop.

In addition, citizens voted Quentin Mitchell second place for best boss, while Diana was second in best customer service.

Yet, Quentin was thrown off by receiving any of the awards.

When told the public nominates the contenders, he quipped, “I’m surprised we were named," he said with a laugh. “It caught me off guard because I figured these guys…” — (as he gestured to his mechanics) — “would probably just call me a [hard taskmaster].”

Not mechanic Noah McWhirter, a Collinsville native, who also won an award — third place as best mechanic. “I was just happy to be in the running,” McWhirter said of the nomination. “It’s a really friendly environment here and we do a lot of things. It varies as the months go — sometimes we are doing the same thing to a bunch of different cars and then today, I fixed a door handle!” The rest of the guys nodded and laughed at the unexpected being expected.

The business offers a number of services, including wrecker and tire, car repair and trailer sales, light mechanic work and apparently even unique repair, such as fixing broken door handles.

Though Diana and Quentin lost their third partner, patriarch John Mitchell, in 2023, mom and son kept the business going.

Diana said she felt the reason they had such a rapport with customers is because they care so much — and work hard to show it. “Other businesses might deal with mainly 18 wheelers, but we deal with a lot of regular people, and we really get to that personal level with our customers,” she explained.

In fact, Quentin said the shop is now dealing with third generations of families who’ve been with them since nearly the beginning. “There is a local family that we now have their children coming here, and now their children come here,” he said. “That’s three generations coming to us.

“We really enjoy building a good relationship with our cus-

tomers. I treat them how I want to be treated. It’s like everything else in life: The general rule of thumb is to treat people like you want to be treated. It’s the same thing in business. Every car I work on, I work on like it’s my car. I want it to be safe, I want it to be done right.”

The gist is not lost on customers. As one leaves the shop, Diana yells out: “Now, if you need us, you just call? You hear?” It’s as though she’s talking to family, not a stranger. At least not anymore.

Quentin Mitchell smiles at a photo of his dad, John, who was part of the creation of Mitchell Wrecker and Tire. John died in 2023. (Photo by Angela H. Cutrer)

Mechanic Noah McWhirter, left, stands with Diana and Quentin Mitchell. (Photo by Angela H. Cutrer)

ANDERSON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

BEST HOSPITAL 2025

Readers’

Choice Awards

Thank you! The votes are in and we are so appreciative of the honors that you, our fellow community members, have given us.

Best Fitness Center

Baptist Healthplex-Anderson

Best Pediatrician

Dr. Deanna Price

Dr. Robert Justice (2nd Place)

Best Pharmacy

Baptist Anderson Pharmacy

Best Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine Clinic (2nd Place)

Dr. Anthony Thomas (3rd Place)

Best Nurse

Ben Leake, RN (2nd Place)

Brooke Tanner, RN (3rd Place)

Best Doctor

Dr. Doug Phillips (2nd Place)

Best OB/GYN

Dr. Daniel McKiever (2nd Place)

Best Hearing Aid Center

Stacy Blalock, AuD

Best Nurse Practitioner

Casey Tillery, DNP, AGPCNP-BC (2nd Place)

Best Primary Care Provider

Erin Cooley, FNP (2nd Place)

Best Rehabilitation Center

Baptist Anderson Tom C. Maynor

Rehabilitation Center (2nd Place)

Best Gift Shop

Baptist Anderson Pharmacy (2nd Place)

Savor the Season

Apple Cider Margarita

INGREDIENTS - For the rim: 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, lime wedge For the cocktail: 1.5 oz reposado or blanco tequila, 2 oz unfiltered apple cider .75 oz triple sec or Cointreau, .75 oz fresh lime juice Garnish: Apple Slices, cinnamon sticks, Star anise

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the rim: On a small plate, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass to moisten it, then dip the rim into the mixture to coat evenly.

Combine ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the tequila, apple cider, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.

Shake and strain: Shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is frosty.

Serve: Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the margarita into the glass and add your preferred garnishes.

FLAVOR VARIATIONS:

Smoky flavor: Substitute the tequila with mezcal for a smoky depth.

Spiced version: Use spiced apple cider for more intense flavor, or add a dash of cinnamon simple syrup or a pinch of ground cinnamon to the shaker.

Sweetness adjustment: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup or agave nectar for a sweeter drink, or add a dash of orange bitters.

Non-alcoholic: For a mocktail, use sparkling apple cider, omit the spirits, and add a splash of orange juice.

Frozen margarita: Blend all the ingredients with ice until smooth for a refreshing frozen version.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

INGREDIENTS: 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil), 1 medium onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 3 cups pumpkin puree (fresh roasted or canned) 3 cups chicken or vegtable broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.

Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat

Meridian

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add pumpkin puree, broth, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.

Stir in cream (or coconut milk). Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with garnishes.

Easy Garlic Toasted Bread

INGREDIENTS:

1 loaf of French bread or baguette (sliced into ½-inch thick pieces)

3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

1 tsp fresh parsley (optional)

Pinch of salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or butter) with garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt.

Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with the garlic mixture. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.

Serve warm on the side of soups, salads, or as a snack.

Meridian Massage

Savor the Season

Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle

INGREDIENTS -

Homemade Tagliatelle Pasta ( 4 servings)

2 cups (250 g) 00 pasta flour or all-purpose flour, (plus extra for dusting)

3 large eggs

½ tsp salt

Creamy Mushroom Sauce

2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)

1 tbsp olive oil (if using butter, optional)

1 small onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

12 oz (350 g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or mixed)

½ cup dry white wine (optional, or use extra broth)

1 cup heavy cream (or half & half)

½ cup vegetable or chicken broth

½ tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

PASTA

Make the dough:

On a clean surface (or in a large bowl), mound the flour and make a well in the center.

Crack the eggs into the well, add salt (and olive oil if using). Using a fork, gently beat the eggs, gradually pulling in flour from the sides until a rough dough forms.

Knead:

Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and bouncy. If sticky, add a little flour; if too dry, wet your hands and continue kneading.

Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Roll out:

After resting, divide dough into 2 pieces. Roll out one portion at a time with a pasta machine (or rolling pin) until thin (about 1–2 mm).

Dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Cut into tagliatelle:

Roll the sheet loosely and slice into strips about 1/4 inch (6–7 mm) wide.

Unroll and dust with flour. Repeat with remaining dough.

Cook:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tagliatelle for 2–3 minutes (fresh pasta cooks quickly). Drain and serve immediately with your favorite sauce.

CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE

Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion/shallots and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8–10 minutes.

Stir in white wine and let it simmer until mostly reduced (2–3 minutes).

Pour in broth and cream. Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Stir in Parmesan (if using) until melted and smooth.

Toss with cooked tagliatelle. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.