A pair of brothers has returned home to open a business in Meridian.

Adam and Bo Pennebaker have opened an Ashley Furniture Home Store at the former Books-A-Million location in Bonita Lakes Crossing.

"Meridian, it was just time for them to have a shopping experience and a selection of both high-end and promotional merchandise that can meet everybody's needs at exceptional values, whether you're looking to re-do one room or just get a set of coffee tables or to get a type of bed," said co-owner, Bo Pennebaker. "Our research tells us that value resonates with all consumers."

Ashley Furniture also sells decorating accessories.

Meanwhile, a ribboncutting ceremony was held Tuesday for Meridian's new
Riverbirch Shopping Center on Highway 19 North.

Developers Tommy Slayton and Alex Smith say a little bit of space is still available in the 21,000 square foot shopping and retail facility.

"The traffic is here; the growth is here," said developer Alex Smith, "and the retail purchasing power is here."

The new Riley Medical Clinic is open, along with some investment and insurance offices, and retail stores.