Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: How MSU-Meridian’s new DPT program could reshape local health care

And check out THIRD THURSDAYS – Meridian Council For The Arts on the Meridian Patch calendar

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Saturday September 19th Patch AM
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Morning Meridian! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • How MSU-Meridian's new DPT program could reshape local health care
  • How a Meridian Libertarian could shake up Mississippi's 3rd District race
  • Miss Elementary Alabama pageant is headed to Meridian this October

Also on today's calendar: The Wellness Day Party and 6 more events.

Today's riddle: What do you call cows dancing in the dark 🤔 (Answer below!)

From our Partner
Today's Meridian Patch AM is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. After investing billions to light up their network from big cities to small towns, T-Mobile is America's Best Mobile Network in the US according to Ookla Speedtest®. Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data 1H 2026. We thank T-Mobile for their support in helping to keep communities like ours connected and for making today's Meridian Patch AM possible.
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Weather forecast:

  • Saturday: Record-tying temperatures, with a high of 99 and low of 70 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Sunday: A t-storm around in the p.m., temps: high: 97, low: 71.
  • Monday: An afternoon thunderstorm, with a high of 96 and low of 69 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

• MSU-Meridian to seat inaugural Doctor of Physical Therapy cohort in 2029 (msstate.edu) — MSU-Meridian is launching a Doctor of Physical Therapy program that will bring 50 doctoral students to the Meridian campus starting in fall 2029, pending accreditation. Funded by The Riley Foundation, the accelerated hybrid program aims to ease Mississippi's physical therapist shortage, add up to 10 faculty jobs, and give working adults and military personnel a flexible path into a high-demand health career.
   

• Mississippi midterms: Who's running in the 3rd District? (mississippitoday.org) — A Meridian real estate investor, Libertarian Erik Kiehle, is joining Democrat Michael Chiaradio in challenging Republican Rep. Michael Guest for Mississippi's 3rd District seat, giving local voters more choices this fall. Kiehle is running on an "America First" platform with hardline immigration and foreign policy stances, while Chiaradio pitches expanded safety-net programs and economic relief as he tries to overcome Guest's big fundraising edge.
   

• Londyn Kate Teague competes for Miss Elementary Alabama (valleytimes-news.com) — Meridian will host the Miss Elementary Alabama pageant on October 18, bringing young contestants and their families into town for the statewide competition. Second-grader Londyn Kate Teague will vie for the Miss East Elementary Alabama title, showcasing her interview skills, pageant walk, and fun-fashion outfit after months of coaching and practice that have boosted her confidence and social skills.
   

📸 Around Meridian

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Meridian

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★ Featured events ★

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Other local events

📣 Meridian Shout Outs!

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🗓 Events Nearby

Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.

Want to see your business here? Click here to connect with local customers.

💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • If anyone needs automotive repairs let me know!
    My husband is a mobile mechanic which means he comes to you, so no need for a tow or higher shop prices! He does everything except pull motors and… (Nextdoor North Briarwood)
  • Hardee's posted a job opening for Team Member in Meridian. Apply here.
  • Vital Care Infusion Services posted a job opening for Payment Posting Specialist in Meridian. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Meridian here.

🗞 Nearby News

Lauderdale

  • DUI Crash Simulation an Eye-Popping Experience at Southeast Lauderdale (wtok.com)
  • Pafford EMS now operating in Meridian (wtok.com)
  • Historic marker unveiling ceremony held in honor of Lebanon Vocational High School (wtok.com)

Newton

Ok Meridian! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: Night Moo-s (Thank you John S. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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