Lunch on the Plaza, Sign Language Spring Celebration, Mother’s Day Boutique, Art in the Village, Seafood Festival, Cheesecake Festival, Healing Field, Farmers Markets and more!
16 Sounds concerts
MusIc note Webb School student musicians travel to London
21 Living huMMIngBIrds
Almost too good to be true.
aMerIca 250 Community Mural
Mr. MurfreesBoro A mother’s love
26 Food restaurant Taste of India
28 News
BusIness Buzz Cledis Burger and
Beer, The Cozy Toad, Tim Horton’s, Gramma’s Hands Sweetery, Busy Bee Cafe, Chex Grill & Wings and more!
34 Opinion free your chIldren
Read to your children tech talk
Be aware of scam texts
Money Matters
Tax filing season is over, now what?
lIVe . . . well! Life is a buffet
A vEry hAPPy MOThEr’S DAy to all the mothers out there. Thanks for loving your children.
I wish a particularly pleasant Mother’s May to my own dear Mama.
1 Corinthians 13 champions longsuffering and kindness. The life of Ms. Donna Mayo was, and remains, an exemplary picture of that.
Thank you for the kindness. Sorry for any suffering your firstborn may have caused; minimal and sparse, I’m sure.
Mom is still very generous and loving and involved in the lives of each individual family member. She promotes traditions and celebrations, family gatherings, and fun times together, keeping conversations and relationships going between us all. My teacher as well as my mother, she sparked involvement in the English language for me. So, she was very much an early driving force for the Pulse!
She read to me, and gradually led me to discover how to read and write and utilize the English language, approaching it from various angles—spelling, grammar, usage, punctuation, storytelling, clarity, handwriting, typing, exploration, persuasion, the quest for learning.
She was my first piano teacher and also helped launch an ongoing fascination with music.
She is now very good to my boys, and spends time getting to know them and caring for them, often while Sarah and I accomplish work on the Pulse
Thank you, Mom! I love you.
I now get to live with another wonderful mother, another who takes on the responsibility of educating her own offspring, this while keeping the Pulse going, the ideas flowing, the social media growing and all the good people knowing.
She gives her sons compassion when they need it, chastising when they deserve it.
Your children shall rise up and call you blessed.
Thank you, Sarah. I love you!
We all have a mother. Although there is some confusion swirling out there, I remain fairly sure that—even if she is not in your life currently—there was a biological mother in the picture in the beginning.
If your mother is still in this world, go talk to her, and bring her some flowers and pie or something.
The May flowers are here. Let the sun shine, baby!
The Mayos got a little Go USA action in this past month, and some Easter egg hunts.
I’m going to Land Between the Lakes in May. The boys and I will check out the wildlife (become part of the wildlife . . . ) for a bit.
Congratulations to Jordan McCullough, for putting Murfreesboro on the big American Idol stage.
That Taste of India buffet is excellent. So flavorful. Try it out; read more in this edition.
Our family is blessed to eat well and get to explore the fine eateries of Murfreesboro (and call it work). The Pulse has a fine collection of restaurant sponsons—La Cucina Italiana, Wako, Oflow, Marina’s on the Square, Boro Bourbon and Brews, Joanie’s, Donut Country—all serving some delicious items, keeping the community well fed.
Thanks for the support, everyone. There’s always room for more. If you do not already, consider using the Pulse to help promote your operation, message, campaign, fundraiser, business or event.
Have a great month. Get out and dig in the dirt.
Peace, Bracken Mayo
Publisher/Editor in Chief
events
calendar ››› May 2026 ››› by a ndrea st O c K ard
May 7
after school art cluB
Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 4:30–6 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, to create some art to take home. In SOAC’s Art Club, participants will develop art skills, learn about art history and have fun. All supplies are provided. The cost to participate is $3 for members and $5 for non-members per class. Ages 7–17 years are welcome; anyone under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is suggested through Community Pass; walk-up guests are welcome. Email sam.kaviyakone@townofsmyrna.org for more information.
May 8 & 22
paInt party
Pampered Artist presents a fun event catered specifically for professional people looking to network and unwind. Enjoy wine as you unleash your creativity with a paintbrush in hand at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Fridays May 8 and 22, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. In this laid-back atmosphere, you’ll have the chance to not only create beautiful artwork but also connect with other like-minded women in a supportive and encouraging environment. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for young professional singles wanting to have a good time while expanding their network. For more information, find Middle Ground Brewing Co. on Facebook or visit pamperedartist.com/public-events
May 8
lunch on the plaza
Lunch on the Plaza returns to Murfreesboro Civic Plaza (111 W. Vine St., located in front of City Hall) this summer with a rotating lineup of food trucks, live music from Roland Justice and lots of fun. Plan lunch on Friday, May 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and go ahead and mark your calendar for the rest of the season: June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11 and Oct. 16. Food trucks for May 8 include: Creative Culinary, The Fiery Pig, Haole Boys Teriyaki and Texas Twister. For more
saturdays
saturday
Market
Main Street Murfreesboro presents the annual Murfreesboro Saturday Market every Saturday through October around the Historic Rutherford County Courthouse from 8 a.m.–noon. The Murfreesboro Saturday Market features locally grown produce, locally raised beef, poultry, and pork, fresh eggs, and baked goods from local bakers as well as featuring artisans, crafters and local musicians. There are 94 vendors lined up for the 2026 season, and 73 vendor spots each Saturday. Every Friday, an updated map of vendors for that week’s market will be posted on Instagram and Facebook at Murfreesboro Saturday Market. You can also find the updated map on mainstreetmurfreesboro.org. This year, the Murfreesboro Saturday Market is participating in the first-ever “Tennessee Farmers Market Trail,” made possible by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Launching Saturday, May 16, visitors to the farmer’s market will be able to scan a QR code to enter to win prizes and receive free merchandise from the trail project, which was created to promote the many local farmer’s markets throughout Tennessee. Friendly dogs are welcome, but please be respectful of the large crowds. For more information, call 615-895-1887 or visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org/saturday-market
information, call Murfreesboro Parks and Rec at 615-890-5333.
May 9
Mother’s day self care BoutIque
Chin Up, Girl will host its Second Annual Mother’s Day Self Care Boutique on Saturday, May 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center, located at 521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Murfreesboro. This free, womenfocused event, presented by Wellpoint, offers a boutique-style experience featuring free clothing, shoes and accessories,
bra fittings, beauty services, mini wellness sessions, community resources and kids activities. Each registered guest will receive a curated self-care bag while supplies last. The event is open to the public, with pre-registration encouraged at chinupgirl.org/events
May 9
cookIe decoratIng
OFLOW (115 N. Maple St.) will host its next cookie decorating from 8–11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9. Decorate a cookie for $5 or three cookies for $10. OFLOW provides all the candies, sprinkles, and icing, and
does the cleanup. No reservations needed, just show up! For more information, visit overflowb.com/events or find Oflow (Overflow Brews and Bakes) on Facebook.
May 9
seafood festIVal
The Seafood Festival makes waves in Murfreesboro on Saturday, May 9, from noon–7 p.m. Murfreesboro will be overflowing with the freshest catches, sizzling flavors, and coastal vibes you’ve been craving. Indulge in mouthwatering lobster rolls, buttery crab legs, shrimp boils, fried catfish, oysters and more. The festival consists of family fun and the ultimate foodie experience. Wash it all down with refreshing drinks and sweet treats. This event is indoors and outdoors at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). For vendor applications and more information, visit brianna-victory-events.com or find the Seafood Festival event page on Facebook.
May 9
Mother’s day tea party
OFLOW (115 N. Maple St.) will celebrate mothers as it hosts its next high tea party on Saturday, May 9, with seating at 3 p.m. The limited-set menu will feature nine different pastries and savories as well as fresh-brewed loose leaf tea from Music City Tea, coffee from Narrow Gate Coffee, and Taiwanese Bubble Tea. The cost is $35 per person or $25 for children between 3–8 years old, plus tax. OFLOW asks that you dress for a high tea party (semi-formal or smart casual). There will be a prize for the best-dressed. Reservations are limited. A nonrefundable $10 per-person fee is required to secure your spot. Visit overflowb.com/events or call 615-900-1676 for more information.
May 9
sIgn language studIos sprIng celeBratIon
Sign Language Studios presents its Spring Celebration on Saturday, May 9, from 5–7:30 p.m. at Smyrna’s Lee Victory Park, Rotary Pavilion 1, for a day of food, friends and fun. SLS will provide the pulled pork, chips and water. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share if
you’re able to (but it’s not required). Bring a chair or a blanket, and come ready to relax and have fun and get to know others in the local American Sign Language community. Sign Language Studios was established in 2022 to increase local resources for the interpreting, deaf, hard-of-hearing, hearing and American Sign Language communities. Visit signlanguagestudiosllc.com or email info@signlanguagestudiosllc.com for more information.
May 12
lIVIng sent
Everyone is welcome to the May 2026 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting on Tuesday, May 12, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wilson Bank & Trust (3110 Memorial Blvd.). Dr. Sheila Bertram Byrd will speak. Byrd has spent a lifetime watching the suffering that is so prevalent in the world we live in. But she’s also experienced suffering firsthand as a cancer survivor. It’s given her a unique perspective of heaven’s grace and mercy, and what it means to be a soldier in the Army of God. For Cristian Sandu, life has been anything but dull. He was born and grew up in the communist era of Romania. In 1997 he immigrated to the U.S. where he became an entrepreneur and today owns multiple businesses in Middle Tennessee. Cristian will talk about the divinity behind life’s twists and turns. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Lidia Oprean and Young Living Essential Oils. Please RSVP to bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com
May 12
tennessee traIls chapter MeetIng
The Tennessee Trails Association Chapter Meeting will be Tuesday, May 12, at Barfield Crescent Park Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) at 7 p.m. Future hikes and events will be planned. Please present any hike suggestions at the meeting. Non-members of TTA are also invited to attend the monthly meetings. For more information, visit tennesseetrails.org.
May 14
archery cluB
Try something new or sharpen your existing archery skills after school on Thursday, May 14, at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pwky. E.) from 4:30–6 p.m. Programs are always led by USA Archery-certified instructors or coaches. The cost to join is $3 for members or $5 for non-members per class. Ages 8 and older are welcome
May 9
art In the VIllage
The Smyrna Fire Department will have a fire truck on-site for kids to see and get sprayed by the fire hose at J.J. McWilliams Old Rock School Park (400 Enon Springs Road W., Smyrna) on Saturday, May 16. The celebration, held from noon–2 p.m., will also include various games and toys. For more information, contact mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org.
May 16
250th celeBratIon of aMerIca
Join a festive community celebration honoring America’s 250th Anniversary on Saturday, May 16 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. at Oaklands City Park next to Oaklands Mansion (427 Roberts St.). Hosted by the Rutherford County government, enjoy live entertainment featuring Rubiks Groove, special guest speaker Jeffery J. McKenna, food trucks, local vendors, family activities, historical Oaklands Mansion tours, Evergreen cemetery tours, food trucks and vendors. This is open to the public and there is no cost to attend.
May 16
gallagher fest
(no exceptions). Registration is suggested through the Community Pass; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org
May 14–16
BlacksMIth conference
If you’ve ever watched the reality series Forged in Fire and wanted to see it in person, the upcoming Appalachian Area Chapter of Blacksmiths is providing your chance. Ben Abbott, Jason Bivens, Jay Replogle, and Chuck Cook will all be at the conference from May 14–16 at the historic Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) ringing with the sound of hammers on anvils. Nine-time Forged in Fire Champion Ben Abbott will demonstrate knife- and blade-making. He’s joined by Terry Sheridan, showcasing forged tools,
The Murfreesboro Art League invites the community to celebrate creativity at the first annual Art in the Village on Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.). Shop local art and enjoy live demonstrations. This vibrant, family-friendly event will feature a full day of artistic experiences, including plein air painting, live art demonstrations and opportunities to meet and connect with local artists. Visitors can browse and purchase original artwork created by talented members of the Murfreesboro Art League, making it an ideal destination for those seeking meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts. Sharon Trevathan will present a cosmic-themed acrylic painting demonstration at 10 a.m. and a sunset landscape-themed acrylic painting demo at 2 p.m. Mary Kearney will host weaving demonstrations from 10–11:30 a.m. and from 1–3 p.m. Suzanne LeBeau leads a plein air painting class at 10 a.m. ($20—including all supplies needed to participate in this one) and Haniyfa Muhammad Branka will create small clay items from 1–3:30 p.m. Other artists demonstrating and speaking throughout the day include Kyle Henn, Decy Morgan, Ernest Craig, Lanae Merseburgh-Vigue, Robert O’Kelley and Maryanne van Dyke. In addition to art, guests can enjoy a variety of food trucks and experience the historic charm of Cannonsburgh Village. Admission is free and open to the public. The Murfreesboro Art League continues its mission to provide classes, exhibitions, and opportunities for artists of all levels while enriching the community’s cultural life. For updates, find the Murfreesboro Art League on Instagram or visit murfreesboroartleague.org. CONTiNuED ON
and Jason Bivens and Jay Replogle, who will lead a knife-making workshop. Craig Hines will teach a hacksaw-making class. Brian and Ed Brazeal will teach an animal head-making class. Beginner-friendly Green Coal classes will introduce newcomers to the craft, while additional demonstrations include Chuck Cook on knife-making, Alan Eldred and Chuck Henderson on traditional joinery, Herb Gravitt on Yellin-style rosettes, and Brian and Ed Brazeal’s high-energy forging. Other programs like landscape weaving, cheese-making and drawing classes make this a true creative family event. To register and for more information, visit aacblacksmiths.org/conferences.
May 16
kIds to parks day
Gallagher Guitar Company, the Walnut House, MTSU and other local businesses and musicians join forces for another day in May of toe-tapping music, flat-picking contests, workshops, vendors and food trucks as Gallagher Fest returns to Walnut Street on Saturday, May 16. This outdoor event, held from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. is a celebration of the town coming together, reconnecting with its roots, and bringing back a community folk music fest. Hailing from the Blue Ridge mountain towns of North Carolina and Virginia, Shadowgrass brings a high-energy take on modern bluegrass to the Gallagher Fest main stage. They will be joined by Nashville-based progressive bluegrass favorites Sicard Hollow and jam-forward roots outfit Airshow. The all-day event will also feature songwriting workshops, a flat-picking competition, and a lineup of local vendors. For a full schedule and tickets, visit gallagherfest.com
May 16
lego Jr. cluB
Bring your creativity and building skills to LEGO Jr. Club at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) on Saturday, May 16, from 10–11 a.m. The youth LEGO club meets on the third Saturday of each month, to build and explore imaginative designs with LEGOs, offering a fun and engaging space for kids and families to connect and create together. For more
information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
May 17
classIc car cruIse-In Shine ’er up and drive ’er in—the Cedar Glade Classic Car Cruise-In returns on Sunday, May 17, at Cedar Glade Brews (906 Ridgely Rd.). Every car that comes to show gets $3 off their first CGB pint. Visit cedargladebrews.com or find the Cedar Glade Brews Classic Car Cruise-In event on Facebook for more information.
May 19
Bapen
Business and Professional Events for Networking (BAPEN) meets at Steak ’n Shake Murfreesboro (2091 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Tuesday, May 19, and the first and third Tuesdays of every month, from noon–1 p.m. The idea behind the free networking group is for small business owners and sales professionals to share ideas and leads and to help attendees’ businesses grow. For more information, find a Rutherford BAPEN group on Facebook.
May 20
the Journey hoMe 20th annIVersary
The Journey Home celebrates two decades of serving the community with a special celebration looking back on where they have been and ahead to where they’re going on Wednesday, May 20, from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at The Journey Home (1207 Old Salem Rd.). This delicious hamburger lunch and open house tour showcases the brand-new building. For more information, visit lovegodservepeople.org, find The Journey Home on Facebook or donate at journeyhome-bloom.kindful.com.
May 21
the connectIon
Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.) will host the May 2026 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, May 21. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, free, noobligation networking event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. Networking begins at 5 p.m. with introductions at 6 p.m.
May 22
4th frIday fun*workIng
Turn your Friday into an opportu-
May 23–25
healIng fIeld
The Healing Field returns to Murfreesboro in 2026. Help honor the nation’s heroes and celebrate the evolution of the symbol of freedom, the U.S. flag, on Memorial Day weekend, May 23–25, at First United Methodist Church Murfreesboro (265 W. Thompson Ln.). The Freedom Trail will feature every official U.S. flag, from the first Grand Union Flag to the current 50-star banner. Learn about the history behind each flag and the sacrifices made to secure our liberty. The weekend will include flag retirement ceremonies at 6 p.m. on May 22, 23 and 24. An opening ceremony is set for Saturday, May 23, at 8 a.m. with retired U.S. Army Col. Rickey E. Smith closing on the event on Memorial Day at 5 p.m., Monday, May 25. For more information and the full schedule, visit ftftn.org
nity for connection and inspiration at Fun*Working, held the 4th Friday of the month (May 22) beginning at 5 p.m. Meet at the Spread the Positive Studio (105 N. Maple St. Suite 1) for a unique networking experience featuring a live podcast. This is your chance to connect with business professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community champions as organizers spotlight good things happening. A happy hour meetup begins prior at 4 p.m. Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for building a better community.
May 22
faMIly MoVIe nIght
Bring your blanket, chairs, friends and family to join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center on Friday, May 22, as the SOAC (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy E.) shows Zootopia 2 outdoors on its front lawn. Yard games and vendors will be available prior to the movie, with Zootopia 2 starting around 8:15 p.m. Free to attend; weatherdependent program. For more information, email mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org
May
23
world turtle day
Which turtle represents Tennessee as
School’s Out Festival from noon to 3 p.m. There will be food, yard games, prizes, face painting and a princess to meet. Free grilled cheese, thanks to Middle TN Electric. All ages are welcome.
May 29
ted lasso theMed trIVIa
Kick off the World Cup with Ted Lasso Themed Trivia at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Friday, May 29. For more information, visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook.
May 30
aMerIca 250 lecture serIes and exhIBIt
our state reptile? Learn about Tennessee’s native turtles while celebrating them and discovering the difference between land-turtles and aquatic turtles on Saturday, May 23, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Enjoy a close-up interaction with the Wilderness Station’s turtle ambassadors. On top of it, celebrate the 25th anniversary of the opening of Barfield Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). Email lpearson@murfreesborotn.gov, visit murfreesboroparks.com or call 615-217-3017 for more information.
May 27
Jeep crew Meetup
The Rutherford County Jeep Crew has a meetup scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). All Jeepers are welcome. Visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook for more information.
May 29
school’s out festIVal Kick off the summer at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) on Friday, May 29, for a
The Historical Research Center, Linebaugh Public Library & Friends of Linebaugh Library present the America 250 Lecture Series and Exhibit Premiere on Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m.–noon at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St.) with the America 250 Lecture Series and Revolutionary Rutherford traveling exhibit premiere. MTSU History professor, Dr. Lynn Nelson, presents Tennessee’s American Revolution, which will take place upstairs in the Conference Room. Afterwards, the Revolutionary Rutherford exhibit premieres with food and drinks. This exhibit was made possible in part thanks to a generous contribution from the MTSU Honors College and its grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee administered by the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial. For more information, call 615-893-4132.
May 30
cheesecake festIVal
The 3rd Annual Cheesecake Festival takes over Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) on Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Enjoy cheesecake on a stick, and a selection of mouthwatering cheesecake flavors. Grab your friends, bring your sweet tooth, and come experience cheesecake heaven. For more information, find the 3rd Annual Cheesecake Festival on Facebook.
May 30
VInyl pop-up record shop
The Heart of Vinyl Pop-Up Record Shop is Saturday, May 30, from noon to 6 p.m. at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). Peruse through the archives of classic vinyl at Murfreesboro’s local brewery. For more
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CONTiNuED FrOM PAgE 8
information, visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook.
May 31
concert on the lawn
The Tennessee Valley Winds will perform a free concert on the lawn of Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave.) at 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 31. The concert will feature “Kirkpatrick Fanfare,” the spirited “Valdres March,” “An Irish Ayre for Winds,” the thrilling “Bond, James Bond,” an Armed Forces medley and other selections. Bring your chairs, blankets, friends and picnics for a relaxing, free evening of music in a historic setting. For more information on the Tennessee Valley Winds, a Murfreesboro-based community concert band, visit tnvalleywinds.org.
May 31
pressed flower class
Create a one-of-a-kind picture frame with real pressed flowers at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Sunday, May 31, from 1–3 p.m. Bring one of your favorite small printedout pictures or Polaroids to add to your
frame, or print one from your phone on-site. The picture frame will be 6 by 6. This event is perfect for anyone looking to create some attractive flower art or a gift. Visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook for more information, or register for the May 31 Pressed Flower Frame Making By Sophie event on Hoamsy.
June 2
MIdtn MagIc group
Join the MidTN Magic Group on Tuesday, June 2 from 6:30–8 p.m. in the secondfloor conference room at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.). This group, part of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, meets monthly (the first Tuesday of each month) to promote, advance and present entertaining magic while preserving the heritage of the craft. Anyone interested in the magical arts is welcome to attend this free meeting. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event.
June
5
lego Jr. cluB at the tec
Get creative with bricks at the LEGO Jr. Club at the Technology Engagement
Center (306 Minerva Dr.) on Friday, June 5, from 3–5 p.m. This monthly club offers builders a fun-filled afternoon of imagination, construction and building challenges designed to let kids showcase their skills. This session, held the first Friday of each month, is geared toward builders ages 5–8. This program is free and open to the public. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
Mondays
Monday nIght hIstory
The Patriot Institute presents free Monday Night History classes every Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.). Classes started back with the Greek City-States, have progressed through Greece, Rome, the Middle Ages, the Pilgrims, the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the history of money, transportation and other topics. The group will continue to explore Civil War campaigns. Instructor Galen Walker formed The Patriot Institute in 2015 and has taught Monday Night History at various locations ever since. For more information, visit thepatriotinstitute.org
Mondays & tuesdays
sIlly
song and dance
Join Ms. Nicole for Silly Song and Dance Mondays and Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). This is an exciting, high-energy program for all ages. Songs are geared for toddlers and preschoolers to stretch, dance and sing. Learn about shapes, colors, letters and numbers while singing and dancing. Adult participation is encouraged. Programs will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn. org/venue/smyrna-public-library or call 615-459-4884.
tuesdays
after school clIMBIng
Join SOAC staff on Tuesdays, May 5, 12 and 19 from 4–6 p.m. to climb on the indoor rock wall and challenge yourself at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.). Climbers must weigh at least 50 pounds and wear closed-toed shoes and clothing appropriate for climbing. The cost to climb is $2. All ages are welcome; walk-up guests are
Hungry Hearts Church is led by dedicated Elders true to God’s Holy Sabbath. We are Torah observant, teaching and holding to the God-made rules in the first five books of the Bible as modified by God through His Holy Prophets and as magnified by Yeshua Messiah. We are filled with the Holy Spirit and use the spiritual gifts. We use some Hebrew prayers and worship tools to clear our minds and open our spirits to the Living God.
Hungry Hearts Church also celebrates the Sabbath in Jackson, TN, and Corinth, MS, every Saturday, and holds a monthly service on the fourth Sabbath of each month in Cookeville, TN Meeting at the Hampton Inn, 325 N. Thompson Ln., Murfreesboro
Saturday, May 9 at 1 p.m.
Upcoming Monthly Meetings: June 13 • July 11 • Aug. 8
For more information, a livestream and videos, visit hungryheartsministry.com
welcome. For more information, email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org or call 615-459-9710.
Wednesdays
wrIters group
The Murfreesboro Writers Group gathers each Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the second floor meeting room at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.). Writers of all interests and experience levels are welcome to join this regular critique and writing community meetup to share work, offer feedback and grow their craft together. Styles may include science fiction, poetry, alternate reality, memoir, fantasy, mystery, literary fiction and others. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
Wednesdays
wIld wednesday
Discover something wild about the natural world with the SOAC staff on Wednesdays, May 6 and 13, from 4:30–5:30 p.m. Meet a SOAC animal or enjoy a nature-based activity each Wednesday at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.). Find Smyrna Outdoor Adventure center on Facebook and Instagram. There is no cost to join. All ages are welcome; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, call 615-459-9710 or email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org.
Wednesdays
lIne dancIng
Krisdale Hoggatt presents line dancing lessons every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at Strike and Spare (1720 Old Fort Pkwy.), offering a fun and social way to learn popular line dances in a casual setting. Open to all experience levels, the weekly event invites participants to dance, meet new people and enjoy an energetic night out.
Wednesdays
all ages story tIMe
Come out to the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) for All Ages Story Time from 10–11 a.m. Read stories, sing songs and play fun games to enhance early literacy. Programs will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/ smyrna-public-library .
Wed. & thurs.
poker at la cucIna
La Cucina Italiana (451 N. Thompson Ln., Suite A) now hosts free Ante Up Poker League Texas Hold’em games on Wednesdays and Thursdays beginning at 6 p.m. The Murfreesboro league welcomes players of all experience levels to join the free weekly no-limit games. Find the Ante Up Poker League’s group page on Facebook for more information on this and other local poker nights.
thursdays
MIcrosoft word 101
The Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) presents an introductory computer class to help attendees better understand the software and operating processes of Microsoft Word, held on Thursdays from 6–7:30 p.m. Ages 13 and up are welcome. Registration is required and seating is limited. For more information, email love@rclstn.org
thursdays
early learners
Join SOAC staff Thursdays for a different themed lesson geared toward your young ones to a classroom setting at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 10–11 a.m. or 1–2 p.m. The Early Learners program is developmentally and age-appropriate. Each lesson may involve STEAM investigations, song and motion, story time and/or exhibit-free play. The cost to join is $2; ages 2–6 years old are welcome. Registration is required through the Community Pass. For more information, email soac.group@ townofsmyrna.org or call 615-459-9710.
thursdays
BaBy tIMe
Come out for Baby Time at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) on Thursdays from 10–11 a.m. Baby Time is a storytime adventure designed for caregivers and babies aged 0–24 months. Snuggle up for a gentle story, interactive rhymes, singing and sensory play in a supportive environment that fosters early literacy and bonding. Programs will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. For more information, Visit rclstn.org/ venue/smyrna-public-library
Fridays
frIday nIght Market
In the Boro
Middle Tennessee’s largest weekly food truck festival, Friday Night Market in the Boro, is back for another season of local shopping, food, fun and community, every Friday through July 31, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Catfeine is a locally owned small business located at 517 Cason Lane in Murfreesboro, TN that serves as a foster home for rescue cats. We have found furever homes for 1100 rescue cats since we opened in 2019.
In 2025 we collaborated with several local rescue friends and launched Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue, a Murfreesborobased 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and finding homes for cats in Middle Tennessee.
This fundraiser event is being organized and hosted by Catfeine at Hop Springs with 50% of net proceeds being donated to Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue, and 50% benefiting Catfeine. Learn more about Catfeine and their mission online at catfeine.net.
Thank you to our sponsors
at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.). There is no cost for admission and parking is free. Come hungry, bring the whole crew to support local food trucks! For more information, visit fnmitb.square.site.
Fridays
rutherford county
farMers Market
The Rutherford County Farmers Market will be open Fridays from 8 a.m.–noon at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). The market features a variety of local vendors providing seasonal produce, herbs, mushrooms, canned goods, meats, baked goods and other farm-fresh items. The market allows residents to enjoy high-quality, locally sourced foods year-round while supporting local farmers and producers. For more information, vendor opportunities or seasonal updates, call 615-898-7710 or email rcfm@rutherfordcountytn.gov.
Fridays
coMMunIty chess
Murfreesboro Community Chess meets at McAlister’s Deli (2357 Medical Cen-
ter Pkwy.) every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Organizers invite those of all ages and skill levels to this casual chess meetup each week. Those attending may bring a board and a clock, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.
Fridays
c3 networkIng
C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Achieve Entrepreneur and CoWorking Center (1630 S. Church St.) held on Fridays from 8:30–10:30 a.m. The mission is to build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support each other’s professional growth and educate people on how to participate in the local community. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.
saturdays
sMyrna depot Market
Smyrna’s Farmers Market returns every Saturday from May 9 through Sept. 19 from 8 a.m. to noon for fresh produce, food and drinks, arts and crafts and live music every week. For more information, visit carpeartista.com/farmers-market
saturdays
sIngo at nacho’s
Check out SINGO every Saturday night at 7 p.m. hosted by BrainBlast Trivia at Nacho’s Murfreesboro (2962 S. Rutherford Blvd.). SINGO is the musical BINGO game that will have everyone dancing in their seats; no singing is required. It is family friendly, free to play, and there are prizes every time. For more information, find BrainBlast Trivia on Facebook or visit brainblasttrivia.com
saturdays
coffee & conVersatIon
The Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting Murfreesboro’s local history since 1971. The RCHS aims to be a community resource for those researching their family, property or perhaps just old fun facts. The Historical Society hosts Coffee & Conversation each Saturday morning from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). This is a very informal, fun and informative event. Bring old photos or questions about the past to ask members, and enjoy free coffee and donuts. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org
ongoing
f3 workouts
F3—which stands for fitness, fellowship and faith—holds free, outdoor, peer-led workouts for men across the country. The free weekly workout sessions welcome all men and always end with a “circle of trust,” emphasizing the group’s commitment to faith. In Murfreesboro, F3 holds workouts on the Murfreesboro Public Square at 5 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Oakland Middle School (853 Dejarnette Ln.) at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesdays; at the Murfreesboro Medical Clinic/ Gateway Island parking lot (1272 Garrison Dr.) at 5 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Old Fort Park (201 Golf Ln., at the north entrance parking lot) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. In Smyrna, F3 meets for workouts at Cedar Grove Elementary (354 Chaney Rd., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Thurman Francis Arts Academy (221 Todd Ln., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Stewarts Creek High School (301 Red Hawk Pkwy., Smyrna) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. The group meets every week, rain or shine, hot or cold. For more information, visit f3murfreesboro.com
concerts
Live Music in M idd L e tennessee
t hurs, 5/7
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Mikki Zip
Fri, 5/8
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Vinyl Four
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Zone Status
Heroes Den
The Tune Twisters
Hig H s ociety
Midnight Highway
Murfrees B oro c ivic pL aza
Roland Justice
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s at, 5/9
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Suburban Legends
c ar M en’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn
c e D ar gL a D e Brews
School of Rock
Adult Band
Happy’s s ports Lounge
JILLfm
Heroes Den
Roland Justice
p op’s Bar & g ri LL
Sharon & Dave
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Tony and the Attitude
t win yo L k
The Friendly Four
s un, 5/10
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Kevin Wolf
Hop s prings
Da Jam Band
Mon, 5/11
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Will Sarver
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Randy and Friends
t ues, 5/12
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Kelly Riley
Hig H s ociety
Shane Douglas
Wed, 5/13
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Kaleb Scherer
Hig H s ociety
Jam with Mickey
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Sharon & Dave
t hurs, 5/14
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Nick Jackson
c ar M en’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hop s prings
Brooks Herring Band;
Shelby Raye
Fri, 5/15
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Jack Finley Band
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Pretty Grimm
Hop s prings
Line Dance Night
Mi DDL e g roun D Brewing c o.
Jasco Duende Trio
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s at, 5/16
Boro Bour B on & Brews
66 Strikes
Hank’s Honky tonk
Roland Justice
Happy’s s ports Lounge
JILLfm & Friends
Hop s prings
Shot Thru the Heart
(Bon Jovi Tribute)
Mi DDL e g roun D Brewing c o.
Muddy Boots
p op’s Bar & g ri LL
Sharon & Dave
t win yo L k
The Friendly Four
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
DJ Papi Fuentes
s un, 5/17
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Lauren Freebird
Hop s prings
School of Rock Youth
Showcase; Da Jam Band
Mtsu w rig Ht Music Bui LD ing
Middle Tennessee
Sinfonietta
Mon, 5/18
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Tommy Wheatley
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
Hop s prings
School of Rock x Zummo
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Randy and Friends
t ues, 5/19
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Carson Mac
Hig H s ociety
Shane Douglas
Wed, 5/20
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Pepper Brooks
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Wednesday Night Jam
& Musicians Hang
Hig H s ociety
Jam with Mickey
Hi Lton g ar D en i nn sMyrna
Jeff Lysyczyn
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Sharon & Dave
t hurs, 5/21
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Carter Elliott
Hop s prings
Backstage Brass
Fri, 5/22
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Most Wanted Band
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
c e D ar gL a D e Brews
Beau Tatum
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Jack Finley Band
Hig H s ociety
Breakin Steel
Hop s prings
No Escape
(Journey Tribute)
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s at, 5/23
Boro Bour B on & Brews
422 West Band
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Buckshot Ridge
Hop s prings
Mixtape ’80s
Tribute Band
b rooks h erring b and, s helby r aye
tH urs D ay, 5/14 @ Hop s prings
Mark your calendar for 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, when Hop Springs Beer Park will be hosting a night headlined by Brooks Herring, a now-Nashville-based singer-songwriter gaining attention for his gritty blend of country, alt-rock and blues. A U.S. Navy veteran hailing from South Carolina, Herring brings his unique life experience to his songwriting, with themes of resilience, loss, personal growth and conviction—the battles many have fought and the healing still being sought.
Opening the evening is Shelby Raye, another emerging voice with roots in the Carolinas. After going viral and then fighting her way back from a life-threatening health battle, Raye carries country in her bones, soul in her tone, and a spirit that never backs down.
Find tickets on Ticketweb. Hop Springs is located at 6790 John Bragg Hwy. Find more information on Brooks Herring at brooksherringmusic.com
Mi DDL e g roun D Brewing c o.
Lewis Stubbs Jr.
p op’s Bar & g ri LL
Sharon & Dave
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Tough Enough t win yo L k
The Friendly Four
s un, 5/24
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Mark Henes
Hop s prings
Da Jam Band
Mon, 5/25
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Randy and Friends
t ues, 5/26
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Nick Bentley
Hig H s ociety
Shane Douglas
Wed, 5/27
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Douglas Riley
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Wednesday Night Jam & Musicians Hang
Hig H s ociety
Jam with Mickey
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Sharon & Dave
t hurs, 5/28
Boro Bour B on & Brews
The Tune Twisters
c ar M en’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn
Fri, 5/29
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Dueling Pianos
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky tonk
Roland Justice
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Rockin’ Country
Hop s prings
Flying High Again
(Ozzy Osbourne Tribute)
Me M ories Bar an D g ri LL
Breakin Steel
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s at, 5/30
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Rock Ridge Band
c e D ar gL a D e Brews
Los Swamp Monsters
Happy’s s ports Lounge
Rudge Powell Band
Mi DDL e g roun D Brewing c o.
Jeff Lysyczyn
p op’s Bar & g ri LL
Sharon & Dave
t win yo L k
The Friendly Four
s un, 5/31
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Jeff Ricketts
Hop s prings
Da Jam Band
Mon, 6/1
Hank’s Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
sMyrna vfw p ost 8422
Randy and Friends
t ues, 6/2
Hig H s ociety
Shane Douglas
Sounds music notes
A NighT OF Big hAir and neon nostalgia all for a meaningful cause is set to take over Hop Springs Beer Park on Saturday, May 23, as the popular Rockin’ Against Alzheimer’s show returns for another year. The event raises funds for Alzheimer’s Tennessee, a nonprofit dedicated to providing support, education and resources for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Through programs like caregiver assistance, community education and support groups, the organization works year-round to meet a growing need across the state.
Headlining the evening is Mixtape – ’80s Tribute Band, a high-energy act known for recreating the biggest hits of the early MTV era—from arena rock anthems to pop classics to new wave—with a full-stage production that captures the fun and flair of the 1980s. Expect plenty of singalongs, throwback vibes and, for those inclined, a few members of the crowd dressed in full, wild 1980s regalia.
Expect throwback anthems along the lines of “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Jessie’s Girl,” and other energetic hits from Journey, Bon Jovi, Prince, REO Speedwagon, Poison and Van Halen.
The show is part of a packed calendar at Hop Springs, a sprawling indoor and outdoor venue that has become one of Murfreesboro’s go-to spots for festivals, concerts and fundraisers.
A special “Purple Rain” cocktail will be available at the May 23 show.
Rockin’ Against Alzheimer’s is more than just a concert—it’s a chance to come together, enjoy a night out, and support a cause that touches thousands of families across Tennessee.
Find tickets for rockin’ Against Alzheimer’s on Ticketweb. For more information on Alzheimer’s Tennessee, visit alztennessee.org
AN EvENiNg OF MuSiC, games and community giving will hit Murfreesboro’s Hop Springs Beer Park on Friday, May 22, as Catfeine Cat Cafe, rock band No Escape, Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue and other community supporters host its “Journey for Furever Homes” fundraiser.
The all-ages event will run from 6–10 p.m. at Hop Springs, all while supporting local cat rescue initiatives. The evening kicks off with Singo (music bingo) and trivia hosted by Challenge Entertainment from 6–8 p.m., followed by a silent auction, raffles and a photo booth.
The night closes with a live performance from No Escape, an area Journey tribute act known for delivering crowdpleasing renditions of classics like “Any Way You Want It,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Lights,” “Faithfully” and other Journey favorites, along with selections from other classic rock bands of the era.
Tickets are $50 and include access to all activities as well as a dessert bar, with additional food available for purchase from an on-site food truck.
Proceeds from the event will be split between Catfeine and Tennessee Whis-
kers Cat Rescue, a Murfreesboro-based nonprofit launched in 2025 to expand local rescue efforts. Tennessee Whiskers focuses on rescuing, fostering and rehoming cats across Middle Tennessee, working alongside volunteers and partner organizations to address overcrowding and provide care for animals in need.
Catfeine itself has been a key part of the local feline rehousing mission since opening in 2019, operating as both a coffee shop and a foster-based cat cafe where guests can interact with adoptable cats. The program has helped place more than 1,000 cats into permanent homes over recent years, and the creation of Tennessee Whiskers has allowed those efforts to grow even further. With a mix of entertainment and purpose, “Journey for Furever Homes” offers a chance for the community to come together, have fun and support a cause that continues to make a tangible impact on animals and families across the region. The May 22 event is open to all ages, but a ticket is required for every attendee.
Find tickets for Journey for Furever homes at hop Springs on Ticketweb.
ruThErFOrD COuNTy wiLL CELEBrATE music and local history on Saturday, May 16, at a free community gathering at Oaklands Park (427 Roberts St.), part of Rutherford County’s 250th Celebration of America. Popular party band Rubiks Groove will perform, historian Jeffery J. McKenna will speak, attendees can partake in food, activities and vendors, local history buff Mr. Murfreesboro will be on hand, hyping up the crowd with his local pride, and the day will include tours of Oaklands Mansion and Evergreen Cemetery.
Rubiks Groove will lead a tour of sorts as well, a tour of American pop music of the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s, at the special America 250 afternoon. The band covers a little bit of everything from Michael Jackson to NSYNC, classic hip-hop to “Baby One More Time,” all set to an energetic, choreographed stage presence. r ubiks g roove h eadlines
webb s chool m usicians to travel to l ondon for 2026 h igh s chool h onors performance s eries
STuDENTS iN ThE wEBB SChOOL’S Honors Orchestra are earning international recognition for their talent, dedication and love of music.
Webb Sophomores Gabrielle Dooley and Juan’Daniel Arellano of Murfreesboro have been selected for the 2026 High School Honors Performance Series: an elite program that celebrates outstanding studentmusicians from around the globe.
As finalists, they will travel to London this summer to rehearse, collaborate and perform at one of the world’s premier classical music venues.
“Music has been a really big part of my life ever since I was a kid,” Arellano shared.
struments . . . we each have a different part, but it comes together and it’s so beautiful.”
For both, their time in London this June will include several days of rehearsals, cultural experiences and sightseeing before taking the stage for a culminating performance at the world-renowned Royal Festival Hall. Located within London’s Southbank Centre, the historical hall has hosted leading orchestras and performers since opening in 1951, and is celebrated for its acoustics and iconic design.
“And when I came to Webb, I found my passion for the cello.”
Dooley echoed this same passion, describing what draws her to orchestral performance: “I really like all of the different in-
Freshman Charlotte Ring of Bell Buckle, who participated in the Honors Performance Series in New York City’s Carnegie Hall last summer, offered her insights and encouragement to this year’s Webb musicians.
“You are going to make really good connections,” said Ring, who still keeps in touch with students from her chaperone group.
She also emphasized the balance between rigor and enjoyment, noting that, even in the midst of intensive rehearsals, “they made sure we had time for fun things.”
For Dooley, this opportunity to travel abroad opens new doors for both musical growth and personal exploration. The trip to London marks her first-ever adventure in the U.K., a dream come true for a student who loves traveling.
“And, I’ve recently discovered that I love playing in symphonies,” the violinist said.
Webb’s Director of Orchestras, Dr. José Ottonello, praised the students’ growth and readiness for this level of performance.
“They are fantastic! I’m very proud of each one of them,” he said, remarking on the tremendous growth they’ve shown this academic year.
“The tone, the quality, the precision—all completely different since August,” he added.
He noted that experiences like the Honors Performance Series extend far beyond the stage. With London ahead, these young musicians are preparing not only for a performance on one of the world’s greatest stages but for an experience that will shape their musical journeys forever.
“The energy that is in those particular moments of your life remains for years and years,” Ottonello said.
Living
Newly Unveiled MTSU Arboretum Identifies Over 100 Tree Species
story and photos By a shle I gh n ewnes
many people may not yet realize it, but Middle Tennessee State University is now home to a level 2 certified arboretum—a collection of trees to be studied and enjoyed, a sort of living museum. Unlike most arboretums, this one sprawls across the entire university campus rather than being designated to just one small area or garden.
For students, faculty and staff, the MTSU Arboretum can turn getting to and from class into an educational walk and exploration of over 100 different tree species.
Moving through campus, visitors will find a mix of native Tennessee species like oaks, maples, elm and tulip poplars, along with a range of less common trees such as the Kentucky coffeetree and the dawn redwood, planted to increase botanical diversity.
Many trees are labeled with small identification signs, offering names, basic information and a QR code for the viewer to dive a little deeper and to help turn a casual walk into a self-guided learning experience. The collection contains the common crape myrtle, black walnut, weeping willow, red cedar, yoshino cherry, hackberry, Norway spruce, pecan tree and many others.
There’s no official starting point; begin at any point on campus most convenient to enter. Some of the best exploring happens along main pedestrian paths and open green areas where mature trees are concentrated. You can wander freely or take a more structured approach, using the online resources.
Visitors can explore interactive maps, tree inventories, and additional information
through MTSU’s Center for Energy and Sustainability biodiversity program at ces.mtsu .edu/biodiversity
These tools make it easy to locate specific trees, plan a walking route, or identify species around campus as curiosity arises; they can be especially helpful during seasonal visits, when the appearance of a particular tree may change.
The arboretum is part of MTSU’s broader effort to support biodiversity on campus, including pollinator-friendly plantings that attract bees and butterflies throughout the warmer months.
In a fast-growing area like Murfreesboro, it offers a simple and educational way to spend time outside without needing to travel far. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick stroll or taking your time to explore tree species in detail, it’s an easy place to slow down and take a closer look at the wealth of different trees all around us.
Hummingbirds: Almost Too Good to Be True!
Hummingbirds are the smallest of all birds, and yet, with more than 330 species, they are the second largest family of birds in the world—a fact even more remarkable when considering they are found nowhere else on the planet except in the Americas.
“They are the undisputed avian aerobatic flight champions, masters at hovering and the only birds able to fly backwards and upside down,” according to Jeff and Joann Royer, owners of the Murfreesboro Wild Birds Un-
limited. The owners of the local birdwatching shop also point out that hummingbirds have the fastest heart rate, the fastest wing beat, the fastest metabolism and the largest heart, in proportion to body size, of any bird. They may have large hearts, but small brains, the smallest of any bird—about the size of a BB!
Nonetheless, it is a profoundly good brain, capable of navigating thousands of miles to the exact same feeder year after year. A popular springtime feeder just happens to be
a hummingbird feeder; they are extremely successful at attracting these tiny birds.
The Wild Birds Unlimited High Perch Hummingbird Feeder allows hummingbirds to comfortably rest, providing better, longer views of the birds. It is also quite easy to fill and to clean. Share the wonder and joy of hummingbirds in your backyard with mom this Mother’s Day.
For more advice on caring for hummingbirds, stop by wild Birds unlimited at The Avenue Murfreesboro, call 615-869-7975 or visit mywbu.com/murfreesboro to shop.
explore Living
The b irthing t ree
Majestic l iving l andmark rooted in tennessee history
Just off s parta Hig H way in McMinnville stands an unusual and quietly powerful historic landmark. Those passing through this Middle Tennessee town may decide they need to pull over to get a closer look at the massive white oak just across from the hospital in McMinnville. Upon examination, a commemorative plaque reveals that this behemoth of a tree is known as the Birthing Tree. For more than two and a half centuries, its massive limbs have stretched over travelers and, according to local legend, quite a few childbirths.
the lower limbs larger than many trees,” according to American Heritage Trees.
This Lebanon, Tennessee-based operation actually sells saplings of the Birthing Tree, as well as seeds and saplings from trees found at the homes of U.S. presidents and other notable historic trees. Find more at americanheritagetrees.org
Long before McMinnville was founded in 1810, the Birthing Tree was already growing. Estimates place the white oak at well over 250 years old and possibly even older, meaning it was alive when the earliest waves of American settlers began pushing west, and even before the official birth of the U.S.A. 250 years ago.
“Standing as a silent sentinel to the town, this enormous white oak (Quercus alba) welcomes travelers into the city of McMinnville. While only 81 feet tall, the crown spreads 130 feet, with several of
The tree’s presence immediately commands attention. Even in a region known for its nursery industry and expansive wild forests, this oak is something else. It stands apart and catches the eye of passersby.
In the late 1700s and early 1800s, before interstate exits and GPS navigation, settlers moved through Tennessee on rough wagon routes. One of those routes—the Old Kentucky Road—passed directly through this area.
Travelers from North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky would converge near the Rock Island community before continuing south toward Alabama. And along that journey,
the Birthing Tree became a popular stopping point.
Its wide canopy provided shade from the sun, protection from rain, a noticeable spot to meet and a place to rest after long, grueling days on the trail. Wagon trains would gather here, sometimes waiting days for stragglers, supplies or better travel conditions.
In an era before rest stops, motels or even detailed maps, a tree like this wasn’t just scenery—it was a meeting place, a campsite, a point of reference on the trail and a place to wait and meet with fellow travelers or family members.
Local folklore—passed down through generations—tells of numerous women giving birth beneath the tree’s protective branches while their families waited nearby.
No official record counts how many births occurred here, but the stories persisted long enough to give the tree its enduring name: the Birthing Tree. Some accounts even sug-
story By B racken M ayo photos By sarah M ayo
gest that children born beneath its limbs were believed to be destined for good fortune, adding a further layer of mystique to the remarkable site. Over time, it became not just a landmark for navigation but a long-living symbol of the community.
As McMinnville grew, forests were cleared, farms expanded and roads modernized. Countless other trees were cut down to make way for development. But the Birthing Tree endured. Perhaps due to its sprawling size, its legendary reputation and its striking appearance, it was spared while much of the surrounding landscape changed.
It wasn’t until the year 2000 that the tree was officially entered into the Tennessee Landmark, Historic, and Heritage Tree Registry, preserving its legacy and historic significance.
Viewing it is easy. Pull into the parking lot in front of U.S. Renal Care, walk a few steps, and you’re walking amidst its acorns under the sprawling branches.
Gaze up, and the massive limbs stretch outward, reaching, twisting, weathered by
centuries of storms and changing seasons.
Imagine wagon trains gathered below, maybe in the early 1800s, the days of Andrew Jackson and westward expansion.
The world has changed a lot over the life of this white oak. Many lives have been lived. But the Birthing Tree remains, growing, in the midst of a growing Tennessee town, a solemn reminder of the power of nature, and the community’s history.
Living
Shacklett’s Photography Presents Community Heritage Exhibit in Honor of America’s 250th
i n H onor of America’s 250th anniversary, Shacklett’s Photography Heritage Collection is proud to announce the opening of “Capturing Our Community’s History,” a special legacy photography exhibit celebrating the rich heritage and stories that have shaped the Murfreesboro community through time.
The exhibit debuted on April 28 as part of the anniversary celebration for Homer Pittard Campus School.
The Legacy Exhibit features a curated selection of historical photographs offering visitors a unique glimpse into the lives, traditions and milestones that have defined our community over the years.
Following its debut, the exhibit will remain through July 4 at the Center for the Arts, located at 110 W. College St., providing the public with an extended opportunity to engage with and reflect on our shared history.
“We invite everyone to join us in commemorating this significant milestone as we honor the past and inspire future generations,” said Aidan Shacklett from Shacklett’s Photography Heritage Collection. “This exhibit is a testament to the enduring spirit and legacy of our community.”
For more information about exhibit hours and related community art events, contact the Center for the Arts at 615-904-ARTS.
For more information on Shacklett’s Photography, visit shacklettsphotography.com.
Community Invited to Participate in USA250 Community Mural Mosaic
main street murfreesboro, in partnership with Rutherford County Government and the City of Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation, will organize the USA 250 Community Mural Mosaic Project—a landmark public art initiative celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. This unique project invites the community to help create “The Patriot’s Flag,” a large-scale, permanent mural composed of 650 individual hand-painted tiles. Designed to tell the story of Murfreesboro and Tennessee, the mural transforms the nation’s 250th anniversary into a meaningful, hands-on experience allowing residents to leave their mark on history. The 8-by-16 foot mural will be a collective masterpiece created by community members of all ages. Residents are invited to participate by attending one of several painting workshops taking place throughout Rutherford County in May and June. The completed mural will be installed on Shacklett’s Photography (105 S. Church St.), near the Rutherford County Historic Courthouse. The prominent downtown location ensures the artwork will be seen daily by residents, workers and visitors alike. The community is invited to celebrate the unveiling of the mural on Friday, July 3 during the Friday Night Live concert featuring Entice. Mural paIntIng sItes Include:
May 13: Chamber of Commerce (3050 Medical Center Pkwy.) — 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
May 16: Rutherford County America 250 Free Family Day, Oaklands City Park (427 Roberts St.) — 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
May 17: Oaklands Mansion Free Day (901 N. Maney Ave.) — 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
May 22: Rutherford County Farmer’s Market (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) — 7 a.m.–12 p.m.
May 22: Bradley Academy Event (511 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) — 7 a.m.–12 p.m.
May 23: Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) — 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
May 29: Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) — 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
June 4: St. Clair Senior Center (325 St. Clair St., ages 55+) — 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
June 5: Friday Night Live Concert, Public Square — 6:30–9:30 p.m.
June 6: Murfreesboro Saturday Market, Courthouse — 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
June 15: Murfreesboro Medical Clinic Grand Opening (2668 Lascassas Pk.) — 8:30–10 a.m.
For more information, contact Main Street Murfreesboro at 615-895-1887 or visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org
otton days on the square, 1923
sam degeorge’s Market, circa 1920
church street, circa 1920
Murfreesboro Battery, May 1934
A Mother’s Love
Hello everybody, I do hope everyone is well and everyone had a blessed Easter! With Mother’s Day falling in May I thought it would be appropriate to talk about my own mother, Carolyn Rogers Wilson.
We all only have one birth mom. I have three siblings, Debbie, Mitch and David. Debbie is the oldest, followed by Mitch. Then Mother waited 12 years and I was born, followed 13 months later with David’s birth. So in reality, Mother raised four kids in two different generations. That in itself must have been a chore.
Happy mother’s day, mom! Minute The with BI ll w I lson
When any of us got sick, Mother was the one who took care of all the kids. She has been a great mother in that aspect.
She would defend all of us but point out when we were wrong. She is an honest woman, full of integrity. She’d always say, “Bill, do the right thing” or “What would Jesus do?”
I know I was the largest baby at 9 pounds and nearly 2 feet long. I don’t know why we always remember the weight, but to me that was important. Childbirth for Mother, and mothers in general, deserves a Purple Heart. They have been carrying a baby in their womb up to nine months. That is an honorable service in itself.
My sweet, loving, caring mother is 91 now and will be 92 in August. I love her so much. Not only has she done so much for me over the years, she’s done so much for others. Jokingly I tell folks it was probably like raising two or three kids bringing me up.
Mother was the one who stayed at home, cooked our meals and kept the house in order while Dad worked. We sat around the table for breakfast, sometimes lunch, and dinner for sure. She makes the best homemade rolls in the world—as one of my favorite wrestlers growing up, Jackie Fargo, used to say, “often imitated, but never duplicated.”
Mother was a fine cook, but more importantly, she nurtured me and my siblings. Whenever there was a problem, I went to Mother (unless it was a money problem, ha ha, that was Dad). She made sure we had nice clean clothes, that we did our homework and that we arrived at school on time. She also picked us up from school.
My father was the Elder in our church, but Mother taught me about Jesus and what it was like to be Christlike. She did that through her actions. She’s always been welcoming to others, no matter how much money a person had or what color of skin a person had or what sex they were.
She always loved her flowers, especially irises and roses. I believe her mother passed that preference down, which was passed to her from her mother, whose own mother passed that down, and so on.
Even though she doesn’t get out very much now, she still lives on about two acres of her grandfather’s farm where she grew up. That goes back over 100 years. It was the country back then. She to this day reminds us what it was like growing up on the farm—all of the chores she had, like gathering eggs from the chicken. I remember being 4 or 5 and she walked David and myself over to check on some farm hands, Robert and Roseleigh, who lived on the farm. There was a dispute going on between the two and mother stopped them from fighting. This is where the family garden was planted. After we got what we wanted from the garden, our neighbors would come and get all they wanted. Today, that garden area is Rogers Park, off of Bradyville Pike and Rutherford Boulevard. Her father gave eight acres to the city for a park for the citizens. Mom taught us to look out for one another.
Mom had a baby blue El Dorado Cadillac convertible. She would come driving up to Campus School with the top down and, man oh man, I thought I was the stuff. She loved my friends. She told us Bible stories and reassured us that everything was gonna be okay, especially during thunderstorms. She is a faithful woman and she and Dad were married for 64 years before his passing 10 years ago. She has been the example of what a Southern lady looks like and acts like.
She has many friends and she loves to play bridge and do her puzzles. She also is an animal lover and has had many lap dogs over the years. She has loved her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. When she was given the opportunity, she has loved unconditionally.
When that day comes, as it will for all of us, it will be a sad day, but we will rejoice knowing she’s with Jesus.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! I love you and thank you for being the greatest mom ever. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there.
Remember to go out and do something nice for somebody. God bless!
restaurant Food
The Dish
taste of Ind I a 120 Eleanor way, Suite A Tues.–Sat.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 5–9:30 p.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 5–9 p.m. 615-624-7275
Butter chicken: $14.99; Lunch buffet: $14.99; g oat rogan josh: $19.99; Chicken malai kabab: $14.99; Shrimp and fish biryani: $16.99; Chicken vindaloo: $14.99; g oat biryani: $17.99 tasteofindiatn.com
Naan-Stop Flavor
Taste of i ndia Serves u p Authentic i ndian Classics From Butter Chicken to Biryani, Fantastic Lunch Buffet
Refuse to eat bland and boring food— try Indian cuisine! Taste of India, just off of Memorial Boulevard on the north side of town and owned and operated by Guriqbal “Paul” Singh, offers a wide array of the Indian classics, and can serve as an approachable introduction to classic Indian cuisine—Indian favorites like butter chicken, goat rogan josh, lamb korma and chicken tikka masala, with a wide range of vegetarian dishes, curries and biryani.
The space, within a fairly new shopping strip on Eleanor Way, strikes a comfortable middle ground—well-decorated and just modern and elegant enough, but still relaxed, calm and casual.
Cricket plays on the television and Singh personally attends to kitchen duties every day as his wife, Rimpy, and his sister keep things running with the restaurant.
The naan—traditional Indian flatbread ideal for dipping into curries and sauces— is exceptional. The freshly made bread arrives just a little crisp on one side, similar to a pizza crust, from that side’s contact
with the tandoor, but super light, fluffy and bubbly on the top.
Taste of India tops this naan with garlic, chili peppers or simply butter, or nothing at all, based on the diner’s instructions.
As delicious as all of the entrees are, for many the naan is the highlight of the Taste of India experience. Try the naan dipped in the saag, a creamy, garlicky spinach dish. Magnificent.
The broad Taste of India menu also contains a naan stuffed with spiced minced lamb, known as keema naan, and another stuffed with a sweet cherry pie-like filling, resulting in something along the lines of a gourmet Indian Pop-Tart.
Among the plentiful entrees, dishes like the chicken malai kabob deliver a gentle blend of smoke and spice, featuring wellseasoned chunks of chicken grilled in the tandoor and served alongside a subtly sweet and tangy, barbecue-like sauce.
The lamb korma—lamb cooked in a creamy sauce made with cashews, almonds, yogurt and cardamom—draws high praise
from local diners.
“One of the single best Indian dishes we’ve tried (and we’ve been to Indian spots all over the world) was their lamb korma,” said Adam Riddick after an exceptional Taste of India experience. “That lamb was so tender, but the star of the show was the korma sauce! It tasted so fresh, homemade and soul-warming, much like a Southern gravy with Indian-style spices. A complete home run.”
He added that the chicken vindaloo was tasty as well and “the grilled paneer tikka was fantastic and served on a sizzling fajita style plate with onions, peppers and limes.”
Another pleased customer, Coco Rorelle, agreed that “the lamb korma was genuinely phenomenal,” describing the whole experience in a posted review as “perfect in every way.”
The goat rogan josh is another popular entree—“A Kashmiri masterpiece: goat slow-braised in a vibrant red sauce of Kashmiri chilies, yogurt, and aromatic whole spices. Deeply flavorful, moderately spiced,” according to the menu.
“Try the malai kofta—you will not be
disappointed,” said Nathaniel Palmer. This one places soft dumplings made from paneer, potatoes and nuts in a creamy golden gravy with cashews and raisins.
The Taste of India menu has an entire section of dishes made with paneer—cubes of a firm cheese that hold their shape when cooked, rather than melting into the dish.
For newcomers, the lunch buffet offers an easy entry point into Indian cuisine. The buffet, served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day but Monday, features a rotating selection that typically includes several chicken dishes, creamy saag (spinach), chickpeas, rice, naan, salad and a few desserts. It offers a solid variety to explore and more than enough for the largest appetites to get their fill, and a great value for food of this quality, and quantity, at $14.99.
“A really nice buffet with plenty of vegetarian options! Each dish was distinctive in flavor and tasty. Spice level was present but not aggressive,” local diner Andrea Dawson reported. “Garlic naan was crispy and flavorful. Gulab jamun was warm, soft, and
story By B racken M ayo photos By sarah M ayo
sweet. Service was very friendly and the ambience was comfortable and relaxing.”
On one recent weekday the buffet contained four different chicken dishes— butter chicken, mango chicken, chicken korma, and those bone-in, smoky, red tandoori chicken pieces.
Another diner said they found the mango chicken “perfectly balanced with sweet and savory flavors.” The butter chicken was “incredibly creamy, rich, and packed with authentic spices.”
“The tastiest Indian lunch buffet I’ve ever had,” said Byungkook Lee.
It’ll put you in a chicken korma.
If you need even more punch, there’s a delightful minty yogurt sauce. Most of the dishes have complex, bold tastes, but nothing is overwhelmingly spicy, as far as the buffet items go.
It contains a few sweet items as well— the popular gulab jamun (spongy milk-solid dumplings deep-fried golden and soaked in warm rose-cardamom sugar syrup), rice pudding, and halwa, a sort of bread
pudding made with semolina flour, almost the consistency of finely ground grits, but sweet and tasty.
For the younger diners, the restaurant includes a thoughtfully designed kids menu for those unwilling to try the authentic tastes of India, featuring chicken tenders, fries and a house-made cheese pizza built on naan-style dough. In at least one case, though, the naan itself proved to be a big hit for one picky local 5-year-old, earning a spot on his personal list of favorite foods.
To drink, a mango lassi—“India’s favorite refreshing drink,” according to the menu— a chilled yogurt-based smoothie blended with sweet mango purée, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the spices; chai tea, various Indian beers and other beers, juices, and soft drinks round out the beverage menu.
Taste of India holds its own within the increasingly broad Murfreesboro global dining scene, offering an excellent lunch buffet and a wide selection of flavorful dishes. Try it out for a quick hot lunch or to explore something new and exotic.
Cledis Burger and Beer, The Cozy Toad, Tim horton’s, Busy Bee Cafe, gramma’s hands Sweetery, Chex grill & wings
By d elores e ll I ott
After building a loyal following through its local dessert truck and catering business, grAMMA’S hANDS SwEETEry has opened its first brick-and-mortar storefront location at 3138 S. Church St., Suite I in Murfreesboro. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Owned and operated by baker MoNique Ivory, Gramma’s Hands Sweetery has spent years serving homemade desserts across Rutherford County, including appearances at markets, events and pop-ups. The business is known for its lineup of Southern-style sweets such as cinnamon rolls, banana pudding, cobblers, cakes, brownies, strawberry shortcake and cookies, all inspired by family recipes passed down through generations.
“Built on the gifts of those before us . . . passing legacy, one recipe at a time,” the company’s mission states.
a round t own
The new sweetery will give customers a consistent retail location where they can experience the signature desserts and nostalgic, from-scratch baking tradition. Follow Gramma’s Hands Sweetery on social media for updates or visit grammas-hands.com for more information.
ChEx griLL & wiNgS will open between Waffle House and the upcoming Biladi Coffee House at the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Rutherford Boulevard. The restaurant is expected to open sometime in May according to management, and will offer a variety of hot items from wings—available in 45 different flavors—stacked burgers, loaded wraps and subs, to salads, cheesecakes and more. The restaurant currently operates locations primarily in North and South Carolina, with a couple of Nashville locations as well—5101 Illinois Ave., and 2530 Murfreesboro Pk. Find more information at chexgrill.com.
grEEk gyrO MEDiTErrANEAN
griLL has opened a new location at 2658 New Salem Hwy., Ste. A8, near Publix. This marks the second Murfreesboro location for Greek Gyro and the third in the family of restaurants, which also include the Memorial Boulevard Greek Gyro restaurant and Maro’s Gyro located in Smyrna, offering gyros, chicken, salad, falafel, hummus and
BurgEr AND BEEr will open a restaurant in Murfreesboro at the former Boro Bar and Grill location at 1211 Greenland Dr. near MTSU. The Boro occupied the building for more than 40 years before closing in 2025.
Cledis, which currently operates three additional locations in Nashville, will provide guests with indoor and outdoor seating and a covered patio, and will likely allow dogs, as do its other locations. In addition, the restaurant will offer a revolving tap menu featuring more than 20 local and regional beers.
Visit cledis.com for updates.
ThE COzy TOAD, a sister store to the grAND ExChANgE, has opened a physical storefront at 19 S. Public Sq. after Lindsey K, the owner and operator of both shops, previously operated out of The Painted Tree in recent years. The Cozy Toad offers a variety of goodies including plants, crafts, gifts, soaps, books and local goods and will have events scheduled throughout each month. Hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Grand Exchange, just next door, offers books and serves as the home base of the Boro Book Club.
In related news, Cledis owner Shane Nasby will partner with local chef Alex Belew to open Chinwag—a bistro-style restaurant that features food that blends smoke and fire, fresh ingredients, and cooking techniques from all over the globe, as well as a robust cocktail, beer and wine program. It will be located at Fountains at Gateway at 1440 Medical Center Pkwy. Stay tuned for updates on this establishment at chinwagsocial.com.
wings. Visit greekgyrostn.com for more information and menu options.
Greenhouse Ministries expects its coffee shop, ivy ON SPriNg, to open sometime in June at 203 E. State St. The coffee shop— an extension of the Murfreesboro-based nonprofit to further support the missions of Greenhouse Ministries—will offer a space with games and couches for guests to hang out and relax, as well as local goods and possibly vendor consignment and some merchandise from the neighboring Garden Patch Thrift Shoppe.
TiM hOrTON’S will soon open a location in Murfreesboro in the former Krystal location at 1911 Lascassas Hwy. beside the
DJ Mart at the gas station. The location is currently undergoing renovations, and is expected to open by early May.
Additionally, Tim Horton’s will also convert the former Arby’s building at 1622 NW Broad St., near TN Golf Station and Champy’s, into a second Murfreesboro location.
The Canadian-based coffeehouse will offer hot and iced beverages, doughnuts, egg muffins, fritters, sandwiches and more. This will be Tim Horton’s’ sixth and seventh locations in Tennessee.
ThE BuSy BEE CAFE in Lascassas has relocated to 6854 Lascassas Pk. in the former Fat Guy Southern Kitchen location. Busy Bee
CONTiNuED ON PAgE 30
CLEDiS
will expand its menu to include pizza, burgers and meat-and-three selections.
Meanwhile Fat Guy will continue to operate its barbecue smoking business, but as a mobile food truck instead.
ThE PriNT ShOP, located at 1 N. Lowry St. in Smyrna, has closed and will soon reopen under new ownership as hONkyTONkiN ’BOuT. The new honky-tonk will feature a mechanical bull, as well as space for line dancing and a family environment until 9 p.m. An opening date has not yet been announced.
A new large MErCADOS MAriAS will open in the former grocery store building on Middle Tennessee Boulevard next to House of Hummus, just across from TruFit Athletic Club, according to a banner hung outside of the space.
TENNESSEE ONCOLOgy celebrated its groundbreaking ceremony on April 23 for a new comprehensive cancer center in Murfreesboro. The center will be located at 1635 Blackman Rd., and will offer three stories and 56,000-square-feet of space. Drs. Yajun Ma, Christopher Waynick, and Michael
Stany will begin caring for patients in the new facility beginning in spring 2027.
The new location will expand access to integrated cancer services in Rutherford County, including advanced imaging, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
The Murfreesboro center will be Tennessee Oncology’s 91st site of care across Tennessee and North Georgia, with many located within larger hospital facilities, such as Tennessee Oncology’s existing center within Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford. Tennessee Oncology treats nearly half of the cancer patients in the Volunteer State.
gO uSA FuN PArk has installed the Power Tee automated teeing technology system in its driving range across its hitting bays. The upgrade has enhanced the guest experience and further established GO USA Fun Park as a leading destination for golf practice and entertainment in the region.
“We are constantly looking for ways to innovate and provide the best possible experience for our guests,” said Alex Abdo, COO of GO USA Fun Park. “Integrating Power Tee was a strategic decision to differentiate our driving range. We’re not just a place to hit balls anymore; we’re a high-tech golf entertainment experience. The positive feedback
has been overwhelming.”
The Power Tee system automatically reloads a ball after every swing, creating a smooth, uninterrupted rhythm that accelerates pace of play and elevates the entire hitting experience.
GO USA has also recently built a covering atop its driving range tees to protect golfers from the elements.
MurFrEESBOrO MEDiCAL CLiNiC & SurgiCENTEr has announced that its new Lascassas Pike location will open on June 15.
The new 40,000-square-foot facility located at 2668 Lascassas Pk. will offer a range of services including internal medicine and family medicine, as well as on-site lab and radiology services for added convenience. In addition, MMC Now Family Walk-In Clinic services will be available at this location, providing extended hours and walk-in care for minor illnesses and injuries. Pediatric services will also relocate to the Lascassas Pike location later this year.
Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers currently practicing at MMC’s Northfield location will move to the new Lascassas Pike facility which will allow for enhanced space optimization, improved patient flow, and a
more modern care environment.
MMC Now Lascassas, currently located in the Rutherford Crossing shopping center near the Kroger, will also relocate to the new building, bringing after hours and weekend walk-in medical care alongside primary care and diagnostic services in one location. For more information, visit mmclinic.com.
closed
EL CuBiLETE, 307 N. Thompson Ln., closed suddenly in March; a sign at the restaurant location suggests that it will become a new eatery known as 99 DEgrEES SOuThEAST ASiAN
ThE PAiNTED TrEE has closed all locations nationwide. This follows reports stating that the company, which offers booth space for rent for a variety of local vendors, may have been considering Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Hundreds of small business owners were left without prior notice of closure, yet expected to retrieve their stock as soon as possible.
The Cozy Toad and the Grand Exchange, Black Barn Market, Knick Nash, Foothills Crafts & Gift Shop and other local stores and markets have invited “Painted Tree survivors” to reach out about possible places to set up and sell their goods.
his skills in regular sparring sessions with Sam Alvey—known to UFC and Karate Combat fans as “Smile’n Sam.”
“We’re best friends at this point,” Dave said with a laugh (though he occasionally leaves their visits with a black eye or bloody nose).
When asked about some of his favorite boxers that he draws inspiration and technique from, Dave first lists boxing legends like Roberto Durán and Sugar Ray Leonard; though he also keeps an eye on today’s elite fighters.
“It looks like Benavidez is going to be unbeatable,” Dave said of the modern-day light heavyweight David Benavidez.
By Bracken Mayo
AFTEr yEArS OF AThLETiC AND COMBAT sports training and a successful amateur boxing run, Murfreesboro’s Jermaine Dave has recorded his first professional boxing win earlier in 2026 in his first pro contest—but in his mind, his boxing journey is just beginning.
Generally fighting at 175 pounds in the light heavyweight division, Dave earned his first pro victory in Tunica, Mississippi, in March, fighting in the 200-pound (cruiserweight) class. This follows a strong amateur period that saw Dave compile a 16–2 record.
“I’ve always been an athlete. I just like being competitive,” said Dave, who played football at Siegel High School and was later a member of the MTSU football team.
After his time at MTSU, Dave left Tennessee to pursue a career in the music industry in Los Angeles. While there, he got into training in combat sports as a hobby and would soon return to his hometown to train under local karate and kickboxing legend Bill Taylor at Murfreesboro’s Champion’s Corner Boxing and Kickboxing Gym, where his commitment to the sport of boxing intensified.
“I had the strength training,” Dave said. “I just needed the technical side of it.”
While he embarks upon his own professional boxing career, Jermaine “Jitsu” Dave also gets to teach younger athletes at Champion’s Corner, investing in their development.
“Coaching is the fun part,” he says, “seeing kids come in and grow.
“A lot of martial arts is character development. It helped me. Boxing gives me a purpose.”
That purpose and drive has caught the attention of local supporters. Blue Smoke Supply, which manufactures metal smokers, and local tattoo shop Aristocratic Ink have signed on to sponsor Dave.
“Jermaine is focused. He has that swagger—he’s going to make it happen,” said Jason Agee of Blue Smoke Supply, explaining why he decided to hitch his business to the up-and-coming boxer’s career.
“I never thought of boxing as a team sport,” said Agee, who now realizes that behind every individual fighter is a whole crew of trainers, coaches, sponsors, family, sparring partners and supporters.
With his pro debut behind him, a growing local support system, and a clear sense of drive, Dave is stepping into the next phase of his career highly motivated, one fight at a time.
“I plan to box as long as God lets me,” the 32-year-old Dave said.
For more information on Champion’s Corner Boxing and kickboxing gym, visit championscornerboxing.com. m urfreesboro Boxer Jermaine d ave w ins p ro d ebut, l ight h eavyweight e xcitedly e yes Boxing c areer
At Champion’s Corner, Dave gets to sharpen
P HOTOS BY J ANET H UTCHINSON W OHLER
By t I ffany B oyd
Opinion # FREE YOUR CHILDREN
m ake r eading i n your Home a p riority
parents: Put down your phones. Stop your scrolling and read to your children. FULL STOP.
Statistics tell us that 40% of our nation’s children can not read and 65% of fourth graders are not reading at grade level. We have a literacy crisis.
A 2025 study conducted by Harper Collins UK and NielsenIQ found that “Fewer than half of parents of children up to 13 years old say reading aloud to children is ‘fun for me.’ Gen Z parents, who grew up with technology themselves, are
significantly more likely than Millennials or Gen X to view reading as ‘more a subject to learn’ rather than a fun or enriching activity” and that “many parents don’t find enjoyment in reading to their children.”
What a sad testament to parenting if you opt out of something because it simply isn’t “fun” for you as a parent, even though you know it is extremely beneficial for your child. That is a glaring, self-centered picture of today’s society.
Our home school, for the last 22 years, has revolved around reading
classic literature and living books (narrative, story-driven books, rather than textbooks confined to a single subject or workbooks). My favorite part of our homeschool day has always been when all my children would gather for family read-aloud time. Not only was this time important academically but it also served as a valuable family connection time. Books would lead to lengthy discussions and often spark an interest that would be explored.
Fostering a love of reading has been a focal point of my children’s home education.
Reading utilizes all areas of the brain. It is one of the single most important things you can do for your child.
“Pre-reading children who participated in regular literacy activities, like being read to, showed enhanced white matter development in regions involved in recognizing written words and understanding language,” according to Science Insights “Reading doesn’t just use existing brain infrastructure. It builds new infrastructure.”
A child’s inability to read and comprehend will also affect all subject areas.
“Low ACT scores are symptomatic of one prevailing problem: poor reading comprehension,” according to 36 University, an ACT prep program. “Many times low ACT scores can be traced back to a student’s ability to read and comprehend.”
For many individuals, reading comprehension issues continue to be an albatross in the workforce and in other areas of their adult lives.
The National Literacy Institute reports that:
– 3 out out of 4 people on welfare can’t read
– 20% of Americans read below the level needed to earn a living wage
– 50% of the unemployed between the ages of 16 and 21 cannot read well enough to be considered functionally literate
– Between 46% and 51% of American adults have an income well below the poverty level because of their inability to read – Illiteracy costs American taxpayers an estimated $20 billion each year
Reading comprehension touches every aspect of our lives and is a major indicator of future success. If this doesn’t motivate parents to take responsibility for their children’s development and education, I am not sure what will. You owe it to your children to make reading a priority in your home regardless of your educational choices.
“What a sad testament to parenting if you opt out of something because it simply isn’t “fun” for you as a parent, even though you know it is extremely beneficial for your child. That is a glaring, self-centered picture of today’s society.”
Do not abdicate your parental responsibility to anyone else. If you send your children to public or private school it is still your responsibility, as their parent, to read to your children and have them read to you.
I have taught hundreds of children to read throughout the years, both as a public school teacher and tutor, and as a home-school parent. I have always emphasized to parents the importance of reading to their children. I could always tell the parents who made it a priority and the ones who did not. It was glaringly obvious. Excuses were plentiful such as: I don’t have time (yet you spend hours on your phone). They won’t sit
still (give them something to do like LEGOs, puzzles, crocheting, small quiet toys, etc. while you read). They don’t listen (Find an engaging book and make it fun). The list goes on but ultimately what those parents were really saying was, “I do not want to put in the work.”
Don’t make excuses, just invest in your children. A library card is free. Providing your children with access to good quality books is not expensive, but robbing them of books and the ability to read is.
Once the family read-aloud tradition has been established with the parent, modeling what it will look like, have your children begin to read aloud to the family as their reading skills progress. You will be amazed at the progress they will make and how this will change your family dynamic. Choose books together and explore different genres. I have built entire curricula around living books. If you are interested in a list of living books and classics that I recommend, feel free to contact me via my website at freeyourchildren.com You may have grown up in a home where reading was not a priority. If not, break the cycle. No matter if your child is 2, 10 or 17, make family read-alouds a focal point of your home. Your book choices can lead to family adventures and experiences enjoyed together while making memories. You will never regret the time you pour into your family. You will regret the time that you spend on less important pursuits. You only have a short window of time with your children, and it is your responsibility as their parent to give them a good foundation. Set them up for success and cultivate a love of reading.
Readers become lifelong learners, and that is the real point of education.
Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Free yOur Children. Learn more at freeyourchildren.com.
tech talk
By Byron glenn
Be a ware of s cam texts posing as political m essaging d uring e lection s eason
OvErwhELMED By NONSTOP
POLiTiCAL TExTS? Scammers exploit this overload, hiding their dangerous messages amid the flood.
Recently, someone in a Rutherford County politics group complained that campaigns can legally spam us by text without consent. The question everyone asks: “How did they even get my number?” Your data was sold. Maybe you signed up years ago without noticing the fine print, or someone else did. Campaigns legally buy voter lists with phone numbers.
Some report political texts as spam, block numbers, or reply “STOP,” but none of these methods usually work as expected. Used carelessly, they can actually raise the risk of scams.
With the May 5 primary just gone, additional primaries on Aug. 6 and general elections on Nov. 3, brace for six more months of constant texts. During this time, scammers are banking on you dropping your guard even once. Don’t let it happen.
t he “ stop ” t rap
Replying “STOP” to a real campaign opts you out. But with scams, it confirms your number is active. Scammers want active numbers. When you respond, you’re marked as engaged, then sold to more scammers.
With perhaps 10 political texts daily, real campaigns and scams blur together.
w hy t ext s cams w ork s o w ell
People are much more likely to click links in text than in email. SMS click rates are 8.9–14.5%, according to reports; email click rates are just 2%. “Smishing”—SMS phishing, or scam texts designed to steal your information—work better than email scams.
The FBI reported that Americans lost nearly $21 billion to cybercrime in 2025. Bank impersonation is the most common smishing scam, accounting for 10% of all smishing messages.
Election season is the perfect cover. Texts seeking donations, surveys or voter registration look routine. But those links don’t go to campaign sites; they steal banking information, install malware, or harvest data.
h ow s cammers e xploit e lections
FAkE vOTEr rEgiSTrATiON: A text claims an issue with your registration. The link asks for Social Security number, birthdate, and address, everything needed for identity theft.
FAkE DONATiONS: Messages appear from candidates, but payment links lead to scammers.
POLL SCAMS: Texts offer a “quick poll,” but their links install malware or lead to phishing.
Don’t think you’re too smart for these tricks. Many people respond very quickly to malicious messages; scammers are fast, and so must your caution be.
w hat y ou s hould a ctually
d o
Follow these steps to stay safe, no matter if the text is legitimate or a scam:
DON’T CLiCk links in unsolicited texts.
DON’T rEPLy, not even STOP, unless you’re sure it’s a legitimate campaign. Replying confirms your number is active to scammers.
FOrwArD suspicious or unwanted texts to 7726. This reports them to your carrier, who can investigate and block the sender. BLOCk the sender’s number in your phone’s settings to prevent future messages.
t he Bottom l ine
The flood of political texts is overwhelming, and knee-jerk reactions like blocking everything or replying STOP can backfire, exposing you to even more danger.
Blocking legitimate political texts doesn’t stop them; campaigns have legal exemptions. Replying STOP to scam texts only increases the problem.
Election season runs through November, six months of political texts, with scammers potentially hiding in the noise.
Your safest move: immediately forward to 7726, block, delete, and never reply. Political texts will end, but scammers using them as cover won’t. Always, stay alert.
Byron glenn is a speaker, business consultant, nonprofit co-founder, app developer, and Murfreesboro Tech Council Advisory member.
Opinion
money matters
By sean M oran
tax filing s eason
i s o ver, n ow w hat?
most americans just finished up filing 2025 taxes and don’t want to think about taxes again until 2027. While I totally understand that sentiment, it may be wise to talk with your financial advisor about the results of your 2025 return and how you can plan for 2026 taxes.
There is a big difference between filing taxes (reactive) and planning for tax efficiency (proactive). Planning can make a world of difference.
If you simply rent and have a single W-2, there may not be much planning you can do, but almost everyone can do something to impact the outcome of their 2026 taxes now, so they are optimized when you file in 2027. Here, I’ll share a few insights into how I look at tax returns and ideas I share with my clients. I encourage you to make sure you are doing comprehensive planning with your financial advisor. If they don’t do planning, reach out to one who does, like our firm.
retirement savings
Many Americans aren’t saving enough, and that can negatively impact your current life as well as future retirement. Saving is a huge benefit because putting away more money in a 401(k) or
you look at your current-year tax picture and model out what your liability will be for the remainder of the year and determine if you have made the right amount of payments, if you have paid too much or too little. While a $6,000 refund next April may sound great, wouldn’t it be better to have $500 per month extra now? There can be things you can do to optimize your financial situation that you may not be aware of, but collaborating with a financial advisor can help you with that.
time makes changes
IRA, can get you a tax deduction, which lowers your taxes. As a general rule, people should be saving about 15% of their income for the future; most are only saving 7–12%, depending on their generation.
It’s important to understand how your retirement savings can best support your goals and how it impacts your taxes today.
Health savings
One of the most overlooked opportunities is the Health Savings Account. If you are familiar with it, you may not be using it efficiently. If you qualify, you can put money away each year into an HSA and you get a tax deduction. You can allow that money to grow for years without taking it out, and in later years when you take the money out you pay no taxes if you use it for qualified medical expenses. This is something you should be talking to your advisor about, because this account can be even more efficient than an IRA or Roth IRA if done correctly.
mid-year review
If you are like most people, you aren’t looking at your tax situation in the middle of the year, but you should be. An experienced advisor can help
As you may be aware, in 2025 we had a new tax law called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. For most people that means lower taxes, but there are important provisions that you need to be aware of or plan for in order to qualify for some of the opportunities. It’s a shame if you miss out on a benefit because you didn’t know about it. One example is investment accounts for children with a free contribution available to you from the government. Wouldn’t you like your child to get a free $1,000 from your tax dollars? You might qualify, but not if you don’t apply for the account. If you are a senior citizen, you could be eligible for an extra $6,000 deduction, but only if you have an income under a certain threshold. What if planning can help with that?
If you have a child turning 17, a child born, or one moving out on their own, any of these situations could leave you with a surprise come tax filing time. Knowing and planning will help you avoid the pitfalls.
DiSCLAiMEr: This article is for informational purposes only and is not tax, legal or financial advice. Everyone’s situation is different, so consult a financial advisor. if you would like to connect with me, please call 615-619-6919 or email me at smoran@redbarnfinancial.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TINIA MOROSHNICHENKO / PE x ELS
ELECTION DAY: AUG. 6, 2026
JEFF WOODEN CITY COUNCIL
for
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Supporting Police, Fire/Rescue/ EMS and Emergency Management
• U.S. Navy Veteran: Combat Proven Aviator
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★ FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Residents deserve careful stewardship of public funds.
★ PROTECTING QUALITY OF LIFE
Growth should not come at the expense of livability. Paid for by Jeff Wooden, Zaneta Wooden Treasurer
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Live Exceptionally...Well!
By JennIfer durand
ife i s a b uffet
imagine—you are Hungry and can’t decide what you want to satisfy your hunger. You go to a buffet where there are countless options, flavors and styles, and you get to choose what you want, how much you want, and whether or not to go back for more. If you’ve never been to a buffet before, it might seem overwhelming. You get excited and start grabbing everything in sight. It doesn’t take long before your plate is full and you can’t fit any more on it. Yet, you look at the long rows of food you haven’t even made it to yet. So many choices in life. What will you choose, and how do you decide?
“Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make makes you.” — John C. Maxwell
Without prior buffet experience or having tasted certain dishes, perhaps you make selections based on appearance, smell, type, title, description, or someone’s recommendation. You won’t know if it suits you until you try it. Do you play it safe and only select what’s familiar? How do you know if you will or won’t like something before you try it? Should you research a dish before selecting it? What are you drawn to? Is it actually healthy for you?
Sometimes we are drawn to things that aren’t necessarily good for our overall well-being. Sometimes there’s a negative or even violent reaction to what we choose. Additionally, not everything that shines (like opportunities, trends, or paths) is actually fulfilling or nourishing for you. It might look good, but in the end, it isn’t. Slow down long enough to pause and take a breath to consider this before choosing.
“Life is a buffet . . . and most poor bastards are starving to death.” — Auntie Mame
The life buffet is full of thoughts, opinions and ideas. What thoughts will you put on your plate? Would you select thoughts like “aging, unhealthy, dying, sick, unworthy, incompetent, incomplete, lonely, boring, sad, depressed, hostile, unlovable or angry?” OR, would you choose “happiness, love, friendship, kindness, fun, laughter, fulfilled, accepted, complete, adventurous, alive, awake or lovable?” These are the labels or types of nourishment you can choose from. Your plate can be filled and even overflowing. Your outcome is based on what you choose—what you cling to or are drawn to.
If you want to savor the flavor of a brownie, you don’t choose broccoli. You also don’t keep eating brownies until you are miserable. Too much of what you love isn’t necessarily good for you. Balance, portions and proportions are important in order to maintain a healthy, energized existence. The same is true for the thoughts you feed your mind.
“Most people are not really free. They are confined by the niche in the world that they carve out for themselves. They limit themselves to fewer possibilities by the narrowness of their vision.” — V.S. Naipaul
Life isn’t just the buffet. It’s also the size of your plate. If you just pile everything on you can feel overwhelmed, while others who curate more carefully can actually savor more. Do you want to live more fully or feel overloaded? Another option is to first do a walk-through the line before making any choices. Sometimes in life we commit too quickly to careers, relationships, routines, and haven’t given ourselves a chance to explore more before filling up our plate. You can always go back for seconds, or change your mind. You don’t have to have just one fixed plate. Reinvention isn’t failure, it’s a second helping.
“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities” — Albus Dumbledore
Sometimes we fill our plate with what we were told should be on it—salad, fruit, expectations, traditional paths. Are you choosing it for yourself because it’s what you want, or what you were told belonged on your plate? Is that satisfying, or are you always longing for more? You also don’t have to take everything all at once. This is portion control. Some things in life are better when you wait for them. You don’t have to seize it just because it’s in front of you. Pace yourself.
A friend once told me he made a habit of taking a bite of food and chewing it thoroughly and swallowing before he took another bite. This allowed him to get every bit of flavor from each bite, appreciating, savoring, and enjoying it. There isn’t a need to rush to take the next bite or to devour life all at once. Take your time in the moment and enjoy all you can out of it before rushing to the next moment, party or event.
Sometimes your plate will be messy. Foods mixing, spilling over, looking chaotic. Life gets messy too, but it doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong, it means you’re living! Be careful of watching what other people have on their plates. Comparison at a buffet is pointless, as everyone has different tastes. Same with life paths. Another’s plate of food choices is not your hunger, nor is their path yours.
Be patient. Sometimes the simplest dish ends up being the most satisfying. In life it’s the small joys, meaningful connections, slow moments, the unexpected that can be life changing.
In the end, not everything gets eaten or chosen to be on the plate. Not every path is meant to be taken, and that’s okay. Your life is defined by what you decline as much as what you accept.
“The best way I can conceptualize this idea into a life philosophy is through a food analogy. Life is like eating at a buffet. Not just any buffet, the greatest buffet ever created.” — Ryan A. Ferguson
Jennifer Durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook Day Spa & gift Shoppe. Call 615896-7110 or visit facebook.com/nurturenookdayspa or nurturenook.com for more.
