Good morning, Murfreesboro.

County Assessor Rob Mitchell challenged County Mayor Joe Carr to a best-two-out-of-three chess match with all proceeds benefiting local youth education programs, a contest set to kick off efforts to expand chess instruction in schools and community centers (Checkmate for Charity).

Isaiah 117 House in Murfreesboro provides a safe, caring home with meals, clothing and toys for children awaiting foster care; it opened after years of planning by local leaders and volunteers—community members can donate or volunteer to support its mission.

Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department oversees more than 1,200 acres of parkland and greenways that host sports leagues, fitness classes, and seasonal events including outdoor movies and concerts, supporting health and community connection.

The department is planning improvements for greater access (and sustainability) as the city grows.

The Journey Home starts 2026 with a new campus that offers expanded day services such as meals + housing support and case management.

The organization will partner with local groups to help families overcome barriers and build lasting stability.

Murfreesboro Fire Rescue responded to a house fire at 2211 Oakhaven Drive (near Trinity United Methodist Church) just before 8:00 a.m. Sunday, Jan.

4; firefighters quickly extinguished flames after occupants and pets evacuated and the Red Cross is assisting the family.

The Grand Exchange, a new bookstore & local gift shop, opened on South Public Square in Murfreesboro.

Owner Lindsey Romine plans to host markets, classes, and author events that bring the downtown community together while featuring curated gifts from local makers.

Middle Tennessee’s women’s basketball team rallied from down 13 points to win 69-52 over Jacksonville State on Nov.

20 at the Murphy Center (Contreras scored 21 points) and will host UTEP on Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m.

Middle Tennessee secured a 68-67 win over Sam Houston as Sean Smith scored in the final three seconds for a dramatic finish at a local college game.

The nail-biting contest energized fans in the community.

Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders swept their first Conference USA series with a nail biter win over Sam Houston Sunday and an 88-51 win over La Tech on Jan.

2 at Murphy Center. Alec Oglesby set a career high with eight 3s to help the team begin the season with a 3-0 record.

Middle Tennessee men's basketball won a 68-67 contest over Sam Houston State at the Murphy Center on Jan.

4, thanks to Torey Alston’s game-winning dunk with 2.5 seconds left. The win marks their first 3-0 start in Conference USA play since 2019-20.

DNJ revealed the Murfreesboro area TSSAA girls athlete of the week nominees for Dec.

29 to Jan. 3. The list honors outstanding high school athletes from local schools.

Titans will face the Jaguars on Sunday at noon on FOX after making roster moves for Week 18.

The team will play without five key players, including Gunnar Helm, Arden Key, Jalyn Armour-Davis, Van Jefferson, and Amani Hooker, while Ali Gaye, Bryce Oliver and defensive back Kemon Hall join the active lineup.

Cast your vote for the local TSSAA boys athlete of the week for Dec.

29-Jan. 3; nominees include Blackman's Braden Flowers, Cannon County's Miles Alexander, PCA's Nic Anderson, Riverdale's Braylon Burns, Rockvale's Kaleb Lewis, and Stewarts Creek's London Nelson (poll closes at 2 p.m. Jan. 8).

Votes are open for the Murfreesboro area TSSAA girls athlete of the week covering Dec.

29‑Jan. 3, with nominees being Norah Clancy of Central Magnet, MC Whitt of Eagleville, Kailah Crawford of MTCS, Kayte Madison Bjornstad of PCA and Ziniiya Tiller; voting closes at 2 p.m. on Jan. 8.

Murfreesboro Home Expo

12-6 p.m. — Tennessee Miller Coliseum — Free admission — Discover huge savings, live demos, and a chance to win prizes at this home show.

Walking the Line and Gold Dust Woman Tribute Experience

7 p.m. — Hop Springs — Cost Info Not Provided — Celebrate the music of Johnny Cash and Stevie Nicks with heartfelt tributes in a night of legendary tunes.

Line Dance Night

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Hop Springs — Free — Boot-stompin' good times with instruction and live music from The Rockin' Country Band.