9+ Best Movie Theaters in Meridian, MS: Your Guide

An institution for viewing movement footage positioned in Meridian, Mississippi constitutes a leisure and leisure venue. These areas present a communal area the place people can expertise cinematic productions on a big display screen, usually accompanied by concessions resembling popcorn and drinks. These theaters contribute to the social and cultural material of town.

Such leisure venues play a significant position in neighborhood engagement, providing shared experiences and contributing to the native economic system by means of ticket gross sales and associated purchases. Traditionally, these institutions have served as gathering locations, evolving with technological developments from silent movies to digital projection and encompass sound. They supply entry to a various vary of movies, from blockbuster releases to impartial productions, enriching the cultural panorama.

The following sections will delve into the particular choices obtainable inside Meridian, Mississippi, together with facilities, movie schedules, accessibility options, and the impression they’ve on the local people. Particulars concerning pricing, showtimes, and the general buyer expertise may even be explored, together with potential comparisons between totally different cinematic venues.

Table of Contents

1. Movie Choice

The collection of movies provided by leisure venues in Meridian, Mississippi, considerably impacts their attraction and neighborhood worth. The variability and relevance of those cinematic choices decide patronage and contribute to the cultural panorama of town.

Style Range

The supply of varied movie genres, together with motion, comedy, drama, horror, and documentaries, caters to a broader viewers base. A various portfolio attracts patrons with differing tastes, enhancing total attendance. For instance, providing each mainstream superhero movies and impartial art-house productions can maximize attain.
New Releases vs. Basic Movies

Balancing new, extremely anticipated releases with screenings of basic or cult movies is essential. New releases drive preliminary ticket gross sales, whereas basic movie screenings present distinctive, nostalgic experiences and entice totally different demographic segments. The ratio of those choices influences the theater’s perceived worth and attraction.
Impartial and Overseas Movies

The inclusion of impartial and international movies supplies publicity to numerous cinematic views and enhances the cultural richness of town. These movies usually attraction to a distinct segment viewers concerned with thought-provoking narratives and various storytelling. Their presence can elevate the theater’s status as a hub for cinematic artwork.
Household-Pleasant Content material

Providing family-friendly movies, together with animated options and PG-rated films, is important for attracting households and youthful audiences. These movies usually drive larger attendance throughout weekends and holidays, contributing considerably to income. The supply of appropriate content material for kids and adolescents is a key consider parental decision-making.

The general impression of movie choice on the success of leisure venues inside Meridian, Mississippi, is substantial. By fastidiously curating a various and fascinating movie program, these institutions can foster neighborhood engagement, contribute to the native economic system, and improve the cultural vibrancy of the area. This strategic method is prime to attracting and retaining patronage inside a aggressive leisure market.

2. Seating Consolation

Seating consolation inside cinematic venues in Meridian, Mississippi, is a elementary facet influencing the general viewing expertise and, consequently, buyer satisfaction and repeat enterprise. The standard of seating contributes considerably to the notion of worth and impacts the period of time patrons are prepared to spend within the institution.

Seat Materials and Padding

The composition of the seat, together with materials kind (e.g., material, leatherette) and padding density, instantly impacts the bodily consolation skilled throughout movie screenings. Inadequate padding or abrasive supplies can result in discomfort, significantly throughout longer movies. Conversely, well-padded, breathable supplies improve leisure and reduce distractions.
Seat Dimensions and Legroom

Sufficient seat width and depth are essential for accommodating a various vary of physique sizes. Adequate legroom between rows permits for comfy seating with out limiting motion or inflicting discomfort to adjoining patrons. The absence of ample legroom can result in emotions of confinement and negatively impression the viewing expertise.
Reclining Mechanisms and Adjustability

The presence of reclining mechanisms and adjustable options supplies patrons with larger management over their seating place and enhances total consolation. Reclining seats permit people to search out their most popular viewing angle and scale back pressure on the neck and again. The performance and ease of use of those mechanisms are vital issues.
Upkeep and Cleanliness

Common upkeep and cleansing of seating are important for sustaining a excessive degree of consolation and hygiene. Stained, torn, or poorly maintained seats detract from the general viewing expertise and may create a destructive impression. Constant cleansing practices be certain that seats are free from particles and allergens, contributing to a extra nice setting.

The cumulative impression of those seating-related components on the viability of movie show meridian ms choices shouldn’t be underestimated. These components impression buyer satisfaction, influencing not solely return visits but in addition word-of-mouth promoting. In a aggressive leisure market, consideration to seating consolation represents a tangible funding within the long-term success of those venues.

3. Sound High quality

Sound high quality is a essential element of the cinematic expertise inside any leisure venue, together with these positioned in Meridian, Mississippi. Its correct implementation considerably influences viewers immersion, emotional engagement, and the general notion of worth. A substandard audio presentation can detract from even probably the most compelling visible narrative.

Speaker System Configuration

The association and calibration of audio system all through the auditorium are paramount. Techniques resembling Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, which make use of a number of strategically positioned audio system, create a three-dimensional sound area, enhancing the sense of realism. Improper speaker placement or insufficient system calibration can lead to uneven sound distribution and diminished audio constancy.
Acoustic Remedy of the Auditorium

The applying of acoustic therapies, resembling sound-absorbing panels and bass traps, mitigates undesirable reflections and reverberations inside the auditorium. This results in clearer dialogue, extra outlined sound results, and a extra immersive auditory expertise. With out correct acoustic therapy, sound waves can bounce across the room, inflicting muddiness and lowering intelligibility.
Audio Tools High quality and Upkeep

The standard of the audio tools, together with amplifiers, processors, and audio system, instantly impacts the constancy and dynamic vary of the sound copy. Common upkeep and calibration are important to make sure optimum efficiency and stop degradation of audio high quality over time. Outdated or poorly maintained tools can introduce distortion, noise, and decreased dynamic vary.
Sound Isolation from Exterior Noise

Efficient sound isolation from exterior noise sources, resembling site visitors or adjoining auditoriums, is essential for sustaining a targeted and immersive viewing setting. Soundproofing measures, together with thick partitions, insulated doorways, and sealed home windows, reduce intrusion from exterior noises, permitting patrons to totally have interaction with the movie’s audio monitor. Insufficient sound isolation may be distracting and detract from the general cinematic expertise.

These aspects collectively underscore the importance of sound high quality in figuring out the success and perceived worth of film theaters in Meridian, Mississippi. A well-engineered and meticulously maintained audio system can elevate the cinematic expertise, fostering larger viewers engagement and contributing to repeat patronage. Conversely, neglecting sound high quality can lead to a diminished viewing expertise and potential buyer dissatisfaction.

4. Concession Choices

Concession choices at cinematic venues inside Meridian, Mississippi, symbolize a big income stream and contribute considerably to the general buyer expertise. The supply, selection, and high quality of those choices affect patron satisfaction and impression the financial viability of those institutions.

Conventional Choices: Popcorn, Sweet, and Drinks

The core of concession gross sales usually consists of popcorn, sweet, and drinks. The standard of popcorn, freshness of sweet, and availability of a variety of drink decisions are important. For instance, freshly popped popcorn with varied seasoning choices is a staple. The pricing of this stuff, relative to portion dimension and competitor choices, considerably impacts client notion of worth.
Expanded Meals Decisions: Scorching Meals and Meal Choices

Past conventional snacks, some areas supply expanded meals decisions, together with sizzling meals resembling pizza, sizzling canines, and nachos. The supply of meal choices permits patrons to have dinner and a film in a single location, enhancing comfort. The standard and freshness of those meals objects are essential for sustaining buyer satisfaction. Menu selection that features more healthy options is usually well-received.
Specialty Gadgets and Upscale Concessions

Some venues differentiate themselves by providing specialty objects and upscale concessions. This may occasionally embrace gourmand popcorn flavors, craft beers, premium wines, and even full-service bars. These choices cater to a extra discerning clientele and may command larger costs. Examples embrace charcuterie boards or artisanal desserts that elevate the concession expertise.
Dietary Issues and Allergen Data

More and more, patrons require details about dietary issues and allergen content material. Venues that present clear labeling concerning gluten-free, vegan, or allergen-free choices show a dedication to inclusivity and buyer well-being. Clear labeling builds belief and ensures that patrons with dietary restrictions can safely benefit from the concession choices.

The strategic administration of concession choices instantly correlates with the financial efficiency and buyer satisfaction inside movie show meridian ms areas. A fastidiously curated menu that balances conventional favorites with progressive and inclusive choices enhances the general leisure expertise and fosters buyer loyalty. The profitability of concessions, due to this fact, is intrinsically linked to the success of those leisure venues.

5. Ticket Pricing

Ticket pricing constitutes a pivotal issue influencing accessibility and patronage at cinematic venues in Meridian, Mississippi. Value factors instantly impression attendance charges and income technology, necessitating a cautious steadiness between profitability and affordability to draw a various viewers.

Base Ticket Value and Affordability

The bottom ticket worth for traditional screenings serves because the preliminary barrier to entry. This worth have to be aggressive with different leisure choices within the Meridian space, reflecting the native economic system and disposable revenue ranges. Excessive base costs might deter price-sensitive shoppers, significantly households or college students, leading to underutilized capability. Conversely, excessively low costs can erode revenue margins and doubtlessly sign decrease high quality, thereby impacting the perceived worth of the cinematic expertise.
Premium Format Pricing and Worth Proposition

Cinematic venues usually supply premium codecs resembling 3D, IMAX, or D-BOX, which command larger ticket costs. The justification for these elevated prices rests on the improved sensory expertise they supply. The differential between normal and premium ticket costs have to be proportionate to the perceived worth added by these applied sciences. Overpricing premium codecs can result in client resistance, whereas underpricing might devalue the distinctive expertise.
Low cost Packages and Promotional Provides

Low cost applications and promotional gives function strategic instruments to stimulate attendance throughout off-peak hours or for particular demographic teams. Matinee reductions, scholar reductions, senior citizen reductions, and loyalty applications can broaden the client base and enhance total capability utilization. The effectiveness of those applications hinges on their accessibility and the perceived worth they provide to the audience. Restrictions or overly complicated redemption processes can diminish their attraction.
Dynamic Pricing and Demand Fluctuations

Dynamic pricing fashions, the place ticket costs fluctuate based mostly on demand, have turn into more and more prevalent within the leisure trade. Whereas these fashions can maximize income throughout peak intervals, in addition they threat alienating shoppers who understand them as unfair or opportunistic. Transparency in pricing practices and clear communication concerning the components influencing worth fluctuations are important to sustaining buyer belief. The potential for destructive publicity stemming from perceived worth gouging have to be fastidiously thought-about.

The overarching affect of ticket pricing on the success of film theatre meridian ms areas stays plain. A considered pricing technique that considers affordability, worth proposition, promotional alternatives, and market dynamics is essential for sustaining a viable and fascinating cinematic expertise for the Meridian neighborhood. Balancing profitability with accessibility is paramount to fostering long-term buyer loyalty and making certain the continued relevance of those venues.

6. Location Accessibility

The convenience with which patrons can bodily entry cinematic venues inside Meridian, Mississippi, instantly influences attendance and total enterprise viability. Location accessibility encompasses a spectrum of things that impression the comfort and feasibility of visiting a movie show. These components, when optimized, facilitate broader neighborhood participation and contribute to the financial success of those leisure institutions.

Proximity to Residential Areas and Business Facilities

The geographic location relative to inhabitants density and business exercise considerably impacts accessibility. Venues located inside or close to residential neighborhoods or main business hubs profit from elevated foot site visitors and ease of entry for native residents. Conversely, areas distanced from these facilities might require larger time and effort for patrons to succeed in, doubtlessly deterring visits. The presence of close by eating choices or retail shops may also improve the attractiveness of a specific location.
Availability of Public Transportation

Entry to public transportation networks, together with bus routes and potential future rail strains, is essential for people who don’t personal autos or want to not drive. The frequency and reliability of public transportation providers, in addition to the proximity of bus stops or prepare stations to the movie show, decide the comfort of this mode of entry. Inadequate public transportation choices disproportionately have an effect on low-income people and college students, doubtlessly limiting their entry to cinematic leisure.
Parking Amenities and Related Prices

Sufficient parking amenities, together with each the variety of areas and their proximity to the theater entrance, are important for patrons who drive. The supply of free parking or fairly priced parking choices instantly impacts the general price of attending a film. Restricted parking capability or excessive parking charges can discourage potential prospects, significantly throughout peak hours. Nicely-lit and safe parking areas additionally contribute to the perceived security and attractiveness of the venue.
Accessibility for People with Disabilities

Compliance with accessibility requirements, together with wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating areas, is paramount for making certain inclusivity and accommodating people with disabilities. These options not solely adjust to authorized necessities but in addition show a dedication to serving your entire neighborhood. The presence of visible and auditory aids for patrons with listening to or visible impairments additional enhances accessibility and broadens the potential buyer base. The comfort of drop-off zones for these with mobility challenges can be a key consideration.

These interconnected aspects of location accessibility collectively decide the convenience with which residents of Meridian, Mississippi, can partake within the cinematic expertise. Movie show meridian ms choices that prioritize these components usually tend to entice a broader buyer base, foster neighborhood engagement, and obtain sustained financial viability. By addressing the varied wants of their potential patrons, these venues can solidify their position as integral parts of the native leisure panorama.

7. Showtimes Availability

Showtimes availability at cinematic venues inside Meridian, Mississippi, dictates patron entry to leisure and instantly influences income technology. The strategic scheduling of movies impacts viewers attain, seat occupancy, and the general viability of those institutions. Environment friendly and responsive showtime administration is important for optimizing useful resource allocation and assembly neighborhood demand.

Frequency of Screenings

The variety of screenings provided per movie every day impacts the chance for patrons to attend at their comfort. Increased frequency caters to numerous schedules, growing the chance of attracting a broader viewers. Nonetheless, over-scheduling movies with low attendance can result in underutilization of sources and decreased profitability. An instance includes scheduling standard releases extra incessantly throughout peak hours and fewer incessantly throughout off-peak instances or for movies with restricted attraction.
Strategic Timing of Showtimes

The timing of showtimes should align with typical client conduct patterns. Matinee screenings cater to daytime audiences, whereas night showtimes accommodate these working normal hours. Late-night screenings might attraction to youthful demographics or these with unconventional schedules. Weekend showtimes usually require a distinct technique than weekday schedules on account of elevated demand. As an illustration, family-friendly movies are usually scheduled earlier within the day, whereas mature-themed movies are proven later.
Flexibility and Responsiveness to Demand

The power to regulate showtimes based mostly on real-time demand is essential for maximizing attendance. Offered-out screenings might warrant including extra showtimes or shifting screenings to bigger auditoriums. Conversely, screenings with constantly low attendance might require changes to the schedule and even removing from the lineup. This adaptability necessitates real-time knowledge evaluation and environment friendly communication between administration and workers.
On-line Ticketing and Showtimes Data

Readily accessible and correct showtime info by way of on-line ticketing platforms and web sites is important for attracting patrons. Handy on-line reserving choices, together with seat choice and cell ticketing, improve the client expertise and encourage advance purchases. Correct and up-to-date showtime listings forestall confusion and frustration, whereas clear communication concerning movie runtimes and ranking info can be very important.

These components collectively show the integral position of showtimes availability in shaping the success of film theatre meridian ms choices. By optimizing scheduling methods and embracing technological developments in ticketing and data dissemination, these venues can improve patron satisfaction, maximize income potential, and stay aggressive inside the native leisure market. Efficient showtime administration is just not merely an administrative activity however a strategic crucial for making certain long-term viability.

8. Cleanliness Requirements

The upkeep of stringent cleanliness requirements is a vital determinant of buyer satisfaction and operational success for any institution inside the leisure and leisure trade, significantly inside the film theatre meridian ms market. The perceived hygiene of a venue instantly influences patron consolation, well being perceptions, and the general chance of repeat enterprise. Neglecting cleanliness can engender destructive evaluations, decreased attendance, and reputational injury.

Auditorium Sanitation and Upkeep

The cleanliness of auditoriums, together with seating, flooring, and surfaces, instantly impacts the patron expertise. Common cleansing schedules should handle spills, meals particles, and amassed mud. Efficient sanitation protocols are important to reduce the danger of transmitting infectious ailments. Negligence in auditorium upkeep can result in buyer discomfort, dissatisfaction, and potential well being issues. For instance, sticky flooring or stained seats considerably detract from the viewing expertise.
Restroom Hygiene and Accessibility

Restroom cleanliness is a main indicator of total hygiene requirements inside a venue. Restrooms have to be constantly stocked with important provides, together with cleaning soap, paper towels, and bathroom paper. Common cleansing and disinfection are vital to take care of sanitary circumstances and stop the unfold of germs. Accessible restrooms for people with disabilities are additionally paramount. Poorly maintained restrooms can create a destructive impression and deter prospects from returning.
Concession Space Cleanliness and Meals Security

The cleanliness of concession areas is essential for making certain meals security and stopping contamination. Meals preparation surfaces, tools, and serving utensils have to be repeatedly cleaned and sanitized. Correct storage of meals objects is important to take care of freshness and stop spoilage. Staff should adhere to strict hygiene protocols, together with frequent handwashing and the usage of acceptable protecting gear. Violations of meals security requirements can result in well being hazards and regulatory penalties.
Foyer and Widespread Space Repairs

The foyer and customary areas function the preliminary level of contact for patrons and create the primary impression of the venue. These areas have to be stored freed from particles, muddle, and spills. Common sweeping, mopping, and dusting are vital to take care of a clear and alluring setting. Correct waste disposal amenities are important to forestall littering and keep hygiene. A well-maintained foyer contributes to a constructive buyer expertise and enhances the general notion of cleanliness.

The constant utility of rigorous cleanliness requirements throughout all aspects of operation instantly impacts the long-term viability and status of film theatre meridian ms areas. Prioritizing hygiene not solely enhances buyer satisfaction but in addition minimizes well being dangers and fosters a constructive model picture. Efficient cleanliness protocols are an indispensable element of a profitable leisure venue.

9. General Ambiance

The general environment inside a film theatre in Meridian, Mississippi, exerts a big affect on the viewers expertise and patronage ranges. A constructive environment fosters consolation, enjoyment, and a heightened sense of immersion, thereby encouraging repeat visits and constructive word-of-mouth referrals. Conversely, a destructive or uninviting environment can detract from the cinematic expertise, resulting in dissatisfaction and decreased attendance. This isn’t merely about cleanliness or aesthetics, however relatively a holistic sensory and psychological setting.

A number of components contribute to the general environment of a film theatre inside Meridian, MS. Ambient lighting, temperature management, and noise ranges play essential roles. Dim, oblique lighting in frequent areas creates a way of anticipation, whereas constant temperature regulation enhances consolation throughout movie screenings. Efficient noise isolation minimizes distractions from adjoining auditoriums or exterior sources. The architectural design, dcor, and inside finishes contribute to the aesthetic attraction of the venue, shaping the preliminary impression and setting the tone for the cinematic expertise. Furthermore, the demeanor and professionalism of workers members impression the general notion of customer support and contribute to the welcoming or unwelcoming nature of the institution. As an illustration, a venue with attentive, courteous workers and visually interesting inside design is prone to generate a extra constructive environment than one with detached workers and a poorly maintained setting. Examples may be noticed by evaluating smaller, domestically owned theaters with bigger chain institutions, every providing differing approaches to environment creation.

Understanding the interaction between these components and their cumulative impact on the environment of those leisure venues supplies a framework for strategic enhancements. By prioritizing components resembling sensory consolation, aesthetic attraction, and customer support, movie show meridian ms areas can domesticate environments that improve the cinematic expertise, foster buyer loyalty, and guarantee continued financial viability. The general environment is just not merely an ancillary function, however relatively a central element contributing to the success and sustainability of those neighborhood leisure hubs.

Often Requested Questions Concerning Film Theaters in Meridian, Mississippi

The next addresses frequent inquiries concerning cinematic venues inside Meridian, Mississippi, offering factual responses to boost understanding and inform decision-making.

Query 1: What are the standard working hours for film theaters in Meridian, MS?

Working hours fluctuate relying on the particular theater and day of the week. Sometimes, theaters open round noon on weekdays and earlier on weekends. Closing instances often coincide with the tip of the final scheduled screening, usually between 10:00 PM and midnight. It’s advisable to seek the advice of the particular theater’s web site or listings for correct showtime info.

Query 2: Do theaters in Meridian supply on-line ticket buying?

Many, however not essentially all, venues supply on-line ticket buying by means of their web site or third-party ticketing platforms. This permits patrons to order seats upfront and keep away from potential sold-out screenings. Availability of on-line buying ought to be confirmed with the particular theater previous to planning a go to.

Query 3: Are reductions obtainable for seniors, college students, or navy personnel?

Low cost insurance policies fluctuate by theater. Some areas supply decreased ticket costs for seniors, college students with legitimate identification, or energetic and retired navy personnel. The precise low cost quantities and eligibility necessities ought to be verified with the person theater.

Query 4: What are the insurance policies concerning exterior meals and drinks?

Most film theaters in Meridian prohibit exterior meals and drinks. That is primarily on account of income issues from concession gross sales. Nonetheless, some exceptions could also be made for patrons with particular dietary wants or medical circumstances. Prior inquiry with the theater administration is really useful to make clear their particular coverage.

Query 5: Are assistive listening units or closed captioning providers obtainable for patrons with listening to impairments?

Many theaters supply assistive listening units for patrons with listening to impairments. Closed captioning providers could also be obtainable on choose screenings. Patrons requiring these providers ought to inquire about availability and request help from theater workers previous to the beginning of the movie.

Query 6: What measures are in place to make sure the protection and safety of patrons?

Film theaters usually implement varied safety measures, together with safety cameras, uniformed personnel, and emergency evacuation plans. The precise measures in place might fluctuate by location. Patrons are inspired to report any suspicious exercise to theater workers.

Understanding these points facilitates knowledgeable decision-making and promotes a extra satisfying cinematic expertise inside Meridian, Mississippi. Direct session with the chosen venue supplies probably the most present and particular particulars.

The next part will look at potential future developments and improvements inside the native movie show trade.

Navigating Film Theatre Meridian MS Choices

This part gives strategic recommendation for optimizing the cinematic expertise at leisure venues inside Meridian, Mississippi. These suggestions goal to boost satisfaction, reduce potential points, and maximize worth.

Tip 1: Confirm Showtimes Immediately. Make the most of the official web site or devoted ticketing platforms of the theater itself. Third-party listings might comprise inaccuracies, resulting in wasted journey time or missed screenings.

Tip 2: Consider Seating Choices Strategically. The place obtainable, pre-select seats on-line. Take into account proximity to aisles for simpler entry, or areas away from high-traffic areas to reduce distractions.

Tip 3: Arrive Earlier than the Scheduled Begin Time. Arrive not less than 15-20 minutes previous to the posted showtime. This permits ample time for parking, ticket buy or retrieval, and concession purchases, lowering stress and potential delays.

Tip 4: Perceive Concession Pricing Previous to Buy. Concession objects are sometimes priced larger than comparable objects bought elsewhere. Take into account this when budgeting for the general leisure expertise, or pre-planning meal choices earlier than or after the screening.

Tip 5: Familiarize Your self With Theater Insurance policies. Previous to attending, overview the theater’s insurance policies concerning exterior meals, digital units, and conduct expectations. Adherence to those tips ensures a extra satisfying expertise for all patrons.

Tip 6: Assess Accessibility Options In Advance. If accessibility is a priority, verify the provision of wheelchair ramps, accessible seating, and assistive listening units with the theater instantly earlier than the go to. This proactive step ensures lodging of particular wants.

Tip 7: Take into account Weekday Matinee Screenings. For decreased crowds and decrease ticket costs, contemplate attending weekday matinee screenings. These off-peak hours usually present a extra relaxed and cost-effective cinematic expertise.

Making use of these suggestions enhances the chance of a seamless and satisfying cinematic expertise inside Meridian, Mississippi. Strategic planning and proactive engagement contribute to larger satisfaction and worth.

The succeeding part supplies a conclusion summarizing key insights concerning the film theatre meridian ms matter and highlighting potential future developments.

Film Theatre Meridian MS

This exploration of film theatre meridian ms choices has highlighted essential components influencing the cinematic expertise and enterprise viability. Movie choice, seating consolation, sound high quality, concession decisions, pricing, accessibility, showtime availability, cleanliness, and total environment collectively decide patron satisfaction and operational success. Strategic administration of those components is important for creating partaking and sustainable leisure venues.

The way forward for film theatre meridian ms hinges on adapting to evolving client preferences and technological developments. Continued funding in enhancing the cinematic expertise, embracing progressive applied sciences, and fostering neighborhood engagement will likely be paramount for making certain the relevance and success of those leisure institutions in the long run. Constant analysis and proactive adaptation are essential to navigate the dynamic panorama of the leisure trade and keep a thriving cinematic presence inside Meridian, Mississippi.