Murfreesboro, TN February 2026

Cadence Academy Preschool, Murfreesboro

Our Promise: To provide parents with peace of mind by giving children an exceptional education every fun-filled day in a place as nurturing as home.

Cadence Academy Preschool is a private Christian preschool in Murfreesboro providing a high-quality, fun, Faith-Based learning environment for all children to develop and grow. We offer programs focused on values, for children ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years old. The Christian message of God’s grace, love, and forgiveness is the foundation of all learning here at Cadence. If you are looking for the best preschool in Murfreesboro, look no further!

Loving Local Life

As February arrives, it's typical to feel a gentle tugof-war within ourselves. On one hand, there’s the temptation to minimize another commercialized holiday. On the other, there’s something undeniably comforting about having a moment carved out on the calendar to pause and celebrate love in all its forms.

In observation, will it be a Valentine’s date out or a cozy night in? A handwritten note or simply showing up with presence and intention? For us, it’s often a little of everything. However, what matters most isn’t how we celebrate, but that we do, taking the time to remind the people, places and passions around us just how meaningful they are. That spirit is at the heart of this February edition.

February invites us to gather, whether that’s around a table, a fire or a shared story. Loving local isn’t just about where we shop or dine; it’s about appreciating what’s close to us in every sense: the makers, the storytellers, the experiences that enrich our daily lives.

Thank you for welcoming us into your homes each month. It’s an honor to share these stories, ideas, services, news and developments with you. Here’s to a February filled with intention, connection and love local and beyond. JON

GREGORY, PUBLISHER

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Stacie Gregory | stacie.gregory@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Angela Lynn Dugger

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lynn Caldwell/Parks & Recreation marketing coordinator, Julie Brown Patton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Trenton Swartzentruber, Courtney Mitchell

Photography, Megan Winnicker, Jonathon Hawkins, Beyond Wonderland Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

BUILDING CIVIL INFRASTRUCTURE IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 2/28/26 Of fer not v alid in all r e gions

business monthly

Nashville Repertory Theatre Enters New Era For Middle Tennessee

Jessica Francis Fichter is the new artistic director for the Nashville Repertory Theatre. She's a director, playwright, book author and teaching artist whose national career spans the Carolinas to New York. She most recently served as the executive artistic director of Trustus Theater in Columbia, South Carolina. Her wide-ranging professional experience includes collaborations with Food of Love NYC, Flat Rock Playhouse, Ensemble Atria, The Edge Theatre, The Connelly Theater, The Tank and The Kraine Theatre.

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen

Discover the music of Queen at Williamson Family Farm in Murfreesboro under the gentle glow of candlelight on Feb. 14 at 8:45 p.m. String quartet Listeso will perform. Doors open 60 minutes before the show; no entry once it starts. Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in three zones. Tickets cost $31.50 to $56.

Murfreesboro Citizens Academy Graduates Community Leaders

Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department Assistant PIO Dana Smith graduated from the Citizens Academy, an eight-week program that gives residents an inside look at how local government works. From public safety to public works, participants explored the roles of 27 City departments, met with City leaders, including the Mayor and City Council, and learned how decisions are made to address community growth and needs. Local firefighters proudly hosted Academy participants at Fire Station 4.

RETIRE IN Style Locally

Ten lifestyle-driven home designs are available at the engaging Del Webb Southern Harmony active adult community in Murfreesboro. This resortstyle community is designed for those 55 years and older seeking world-class amenities, a facilitated lifestyle and single-level homes.

These home designs feature open floor plans and smart spaces, such as flex rooms.

Located at 225 Legato Blvd., the newest phase of homes is now selling. Residents began moving into Southern Harmony during late 2024 after the community grand-opened that spring. The full clubhouse and amenity center are completing construction and will open during February 2026. Activities there will be supported by a full-time lifestyle director.

"Within our expansive resident's amenity center is space for game nights and social gatherings. Engage in friendly competition with neighbors on the pickleball and bocce ball courts. The open-lawn amphitheater is an inviting entertainment spot, ensuring moments at Southern Harmony are vibrant," says Libby Perry, vice president of sales, PulteGroup Tennessee.

This Southern Harmony setting also includes a Veterans Memorial, state-ofthe-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, an arboretum, fresh-water ponds, as well as a dining pavilion.

"Whether someone's looking to spend time with family, pick up a new hobby, join an interest group or just explore the lifestyle that 55-plus communities offer, the Del Webb team can help. As one of the largest builders of retirement communities nationwide, Del Webb professionals have the experience and expertise to make buying a retirement home seamless, with team members who can assist at every stage," adds Libby.

615.729.7029

DelWebb.com/SouthernHarmony

Del Webb Southern Harmony in Murfreesboro is a resortstyle community for those 55 years and older seeking worldclass amenities, a facilitated lifestyle and single-level homes.

Dance to your own

FUN ATMOSPHERE

Now Get One-Of-A-Kind Las Trojas

Cantina Mexican Flavors

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

TROJAS

Las Trojas Cantina Murfreesboro recently became the third Tennessee location among the restaurant's 11 family-owned locations in three states. As official home of the 'Margarona,' Las Trojas awaits at 3105 Medical Center Parkway. Las Trojas Cantina has served bold Mexican flavors since 2005, as a business dream brought to

life by Miguel Martinez after coming to the United States from Michoacán, Mexico. The restaurant offers happy hours, specialty plates, appetizers, tacos, nachos, steaks, burritos, fajitas, seafood, hot wings and desserts-plus. They cater and have two private dining rooms.  615.962.7331  LasTrojas.com

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

The Webb School Is Oldest Continuously Operating Co-Ed Boarding School In The South

Nearby Global

Learning

Education that lasts a lifetime. Founded in 1870, The Webb School in historic Bell Buckle reflects many achievements. Started by renowned educator and former U.S. Sen. William Robert "Sawney" Webb, it's the South’s oldest continuously operating co-ed boarding school, with approximately 350 students in grades 6-12 hailing from more than a dozen domestic states and 20 countries, all on a 150-acre campus.

“THE

WEBB SCHOOL HAS A STORIED LEGACY OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND CHARACTER-BASED EDUCATION. I’M CONTINUALLY INSPIRED BY THE SENSE OF PURPOSE AND COMMUNITY THAT DEFINE THIS REMARKABLE PLACE. WEBB IS MORE THAN A SCHOOL; IT’S A LIVING TRADITION,” SAYS HEAD OF SCHOOL POLLY PARKER, PH.D.

The senator's brother, John Maurice Webb, joined the school as co-principal, creating a significant educational institution quickly known for its discipline and high standards. The school also became recognized for its rigorous academics, strong moral values and producing many successful alumni, including Rhodes Scholars.

The school originally was launched in Culleoka, then relocated to Bell Buckle during 1886.

A new historical moment was made during July 2025 when Polly Parker, Ph.D., became The Webb School's 14th and first female head of school in the institution's 156-year history. She says, "I'm continually inspired by the sense of purpose and community that define this remarkable place. Webb is more than a school. It's a living tradition, carried forward each day by our students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents."

Her career includes strengthening boarding schools, fostering inclusive communities and promoting student-centered programming. She says her leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, transparency and continuous improvement.

Under Polly's leadership, The Webb School staff announced new signature programs in Leadership, Computer Science and Interactive Media, as well as Health and Human Performance; partnered with the Tennessee Flight School to allow students interested in aviation to pursue their pilot’s license while enrolled at Webb; and launched an exclusive partnership with Blue Ivy Coaching to help Webb students in grades 9-12 navigate the college search and admissions process in a more personalized manner. Webb, which offers a 25:1 student-to-counselor ratio, is the only Tennessee school to collaborate with Blue Ivy.

The school boasts strong ties to the Murfreesboro community, offering two bus routes to northern and southern Murfreesboro, as 31% of the day student population is from Murfreesboro.

"At Webb, students are part of a global community that celebrates and values each other’s unique perspectives, values and cultural differences. Living and learning with classmates from different backgrounds

and cultures helps our students develop a better understanding of others and themselves and strengthens their ability to communicate, collaborate and lead," assures Polly.

During October 2025, The Webb School was named the Best Private School in the local 31st Annual Ruthie's Community Choice Awards. “We're honored to receive this recognition from our community. We're grateful to all who voted and for their continued belief in our mission," says Polly.

As a college-prep institution, The Webb School team will host an admissions open house on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 1–3:30 p.m.

931.389.6003  TheWebbSchool.com

For The Love Of Green

MURFREESBORO GREENWAY SYSTEM IS ONE OF COMMUNITY’S RICHEST RESOURCES

The Murfreesboro Greenway System consists of 17-plus miles of trails, bridges and boardwalks for enjoying Murfreesboro's beautiful natural setting. Sixteen trailheads along the seven greenway sections provide access for hiking, walking, running, wading, bicycling, skating, nature photography, picnicking, birdwatching, fishing and other outdoor activities for individuals of all abilities. Greenway Sections are designated as North Murfreesboro Greenway, Stones River Trail, Lytle Creek Trail, Fortress Rosecrans Loop Trail, Murfree Spring Trail, West College Street Spur Trail and Gateway Island Trail.

Three small watercraft launch points, two on the West Fork Stones River and one on the East Fork Stones River, provide access to the Stones River for paddlers.

Two bark parks allow off-leash exercise for canine pals. Those two, engaging areas are called Cason Bark Park and General Bragg Bark Park.

All Greenway trailheads open at daylight and close one-half hour before sunset daily year-round. Central Valley Trailhead has a horse trail access.

“The Murfreesboro Greenway System connects historical sites, parks, neighborhoods and businesses, serving as a conservation corridor to preserve natural and cultural resources. It’s for pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle use only.”

CHIROPRACTIC

Self-love embraces navigating optimal wellness journeys and approaching personal decisions as if advising a best friend. One regional holistic doctor takes every aspect of this concept to heart. Healing through both science and spirit, Chris Motley, D.C., DABCA, founded his practice in 2004 to help people recover from chronic illnesses by addressing physical, emotional and energetic health.

"My mission is to eliminate fear surrounding health information and empower individuals to take control of their well-being," he assures. "It all starts from within. We have to truly connect with our bodies to heal."

This undertaking is rooted in Dr. Motley's own healing journey, as he now assists patients in Murfreesboro and the Nashville region. His unique approach integrates

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRENTON SWARTZENTRUBER/TRENTON ALAN PHOTOGRAPHY

modern technology with time-honored practices, recognizing physical, neurological and emotional health as interconnected aspects of overall well-being. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Logan University in Chesterfield, Missouri, and certifications in acupuncture, kinesiology and Neuro-Emotional Technique.

Self-care techniques he recommends include facial work to release PTSD (such as EFT Tapping, myofascial release or stretching); animal-shiver release exercises to reduce trauma; colon cleansing; stomach massages to release grief; kidney cleansing to avoid UTIs; and emotional heart strengthening through sternum massages.

"We can't move forward emotionally if our body isn't ready," he explains.

When he's not with patients, he's recording  The Ancient Health Podcast  or speaking at wellness events nationwide. As podcast host, he merges ancient Eastern wisdom with cutting-edge Western innovations to offer practical solutions for today’s health challenges. Essentially, he's a globally recognized alternative health practitioner who specializes in traditional Chinese medicine, frequency medicine and kinesiology.

Through his passion for holistic wellness education, Dr. Motley inspires individuals to practice self-love through intentional health care. His consultations are by-appointments only.

DoctorMotley.com

A Handmade Date Night

A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

Make it feel like an extra special at-home date night with thoughtful touches from the heart—and hands.

From-Scratch

Pasta

what you need

Yield: 1 pound

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs

what you do

1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.

2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.

3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com .

realty report

MURFREESBORO MARKET UPDATE REPORT

As we get out of Thanksgiving and into the Christmas season, things generally start to slow down as people are gearing up for the holidays. If you are a seller during this time, make sure you are doing all the things to make sure your agent is on top of showing requests and making your own ready to show. As a buyer, you can get some great deals to round out the year. Everything we are seeing as far as the numbers are concerned are right in line with what is to be expected for this time of year.

CARING FOR THE HEARTS OF MURFREESBORO FAMILIES

FEBRUARY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2ND, 4TH, 9TH, 11TH, 16TH, 18TH, 23RD & 25TH

Beginner Tai Chi Series

Patterson Park Community Center | 12:00 PM

This eight-week beginner class for those 18 years and older meets on Mondays and Wednesdays and is designed for those wanting to learn the basics of Sun Style Tai Chi practice. It is a gentle, low impact form of exercise for all fitness levels. General admission or facility pass.

FEBRUARY 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH

Little Picassos Art

Bradley Academy Museum | 9:30 AM

Little Picassos’ sessions are about discovery and creative experimentation for kids aged 3-6. Participants immerse into making art by using various techniques and mediums such as paint, oil pastels, chalk, printing, sculpture and mixed media. Activities will be hands-on for sensory exposure and exercising fine motor skills. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Space limited to 16; $5 fee.

FEBRUARY 19TH

Harriet Tubman

Impersonator

St Clair Street Senior Center | 2:30 PM

Harriet Tubman is an American hero and an icon of freedom, a five-foot-tall African American abolitionist who guided hundreds to freedom. Hear her story from the renowned performer and impersonator, June LaGreen. This 1-hour event will be held in Murfreesboro in room 105 and is limited to 120 attendees. Call 615.848.2550 for additional details.

PRIVATE OFFICES. SHARED ENERGY. SMARTER WORK. Join our thriving business community while space lasts!

Located in the vibrant Fountains at Gateway community, Studio Suites features turnkey, furnished corporate suites accommodating up to 20 team members and a full complement of luxurious amenities.

With only one Corporate Suite and two Team Offices currently available, Studio presents a unique opportunity to elevate your workspace at Fountains. Designed for modern teams, these suites feature cutting-edge technology, refined finishes, and flexible monthly leasing. Act now while these openings last!

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 21ST

Donation Chiropractic Adjustment Day

Milestone Chiropractic | 9:00 AM

Milestone Family Chiropractic is offering a donation-based service morning to support the families with chiropractic care. All ages are welcome, including pregnant moms and infants. Cash-based donations benefit Portico, a local nonprofit offering pregnancy care and family support in Murfreesboro. New or gently used shoes requested for Soles4Souls drive to help reach 10,000 pairs for Isaiah 117 House.

FEBRUARY 28TH

Craft Fair

Stones River Market | 10:00 AM

Join an indoor market at Stones River Mall until 6 p.m. Shop among more than 60 vendors and enjoy food from delicious food truck, Cedar Valley Kitchen. For inquiries or to join exhibitors, email BriannaVictoryEvents@ gmail.com or call 931.952.0472.

FEBRUARY 28TH

Stitched And Woven: Weaving With Catie Beth

Midnight Grove Collective | 12:00 PM

Organizers will use collaged fabrics, weaving, appliqué techniques to build a beginner friendly, hand stitched, artwork that is inspired by our participants' individual interests, passions and talismans. Fee is $50, which includes class materials. Phone 615.603.7578 to register or to address questions.