It ’ s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in downtown Meridian . Storefronts are decked out with holiday displays of twinkling lights , decorated trees , colorful wreaths and nutcracker soldiers . My soul loves the warm , festive feeling this season creates , when friends , family and even strangers share a sense of togetherness with the world around us .
A couple of weeks ago , downtown stores held a collective open house on a week night . It was refreshing to see shoppers and families out and about on the city streets , laughing , enjoying themselves and shuffling from one store to the next in search of holiday bargains . Seeing the brightly lit storefronts at night , the bustling sidewalks and the support from the community for these local businesses was a reminder of just how much progress has been made in the revitalization of downtown Meridian over the past decade .
In this edition of Meridian Life , we talk with the owner of one of those downtown retailers , Robert S . Loeb Jr . of LOEB ’ s Inc ., about his family ’ s 137-year history in the retail business in Meridian . I think it is a story many of our readers who grew up shopping at downtown department stores will enjoy .
Also in this issue , we feature Meridian artist Beth Whitehead who over the last few years has discovered a love of painting and is making a name for herself in beautiful contemporary abstract art .
We also spotlight Wilson Lovett , an architectural interior designer who happens to be famous locally during the holiday season for decorating one of the signature trees at Merrehope ’ s annual Trees of Christmas tour . His ornately decorated trees are simply breathtaking and , last year , made the perfect backdrop for a couple of wedding proposals .
Contributor Tom Mayer gives us a fascinating interview with best-selling author Nicholas Sparks about his latest novel , and Bet Deweese shares some holiday mimosa and brunch recipes that will make your Christmas morning festive and bright . Plus , we have lots of fashion ideas in our Editor ’ s Holiday Picks and snapshots from around Meridian .
We hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine , and as you go about celebrating the holidays this season , please keep in mind there are numerous local nonprofits and charities who are working to fulfill the needs of residents in our community . These organizations need your help to continue their mission , so please consider searching them out for your end-of-year giving and support .
Best wishes for the happiest of holiday seasons ,
Glenda Sanders Editor meridianstar . com
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