Good morning, Murfreesboro.

Local nonprofits in Rutherford County are offering volunteer opportunities & events from today into summer.

Alive Hospice needs volunteers at its In-Patient Unit; youth grief support runs Mar. 17-Apr. 21; Amelia’s Closet hosts a women’s event on Mar. 19; & Doors of Hope holds a golf tournament on June 4.

Kristin Demos has been named Capital Campaign Co-Chair for the Child Advocacy Center as the nonprofit works to build a permanent home; the campaign has raised $2.7 million of its $3.1 million goal in Murfreesboro — Demos brings almost 20 years of fundraising experience.

United Communications explains that fiber internet supports smart homes by delivering symmetrical speeds and reliable connectivity for devices like thermostats and security cameras — the system keeps busy households in Middle Tennessee operating smoothly.

Sheila Vaughn Howse broke barriers at Smyrna High School in 1969 by becoming the school’s first Black cheerleader + later first Black ROTC officer; she faced both challenges + support from fellow students and now travels while sharing her inspiring story with families.

Local shoppers can save money with The Tennessean’s weekly grocery deals, which highlight top offers from stores such as Kroger, Aldi and Food Lion — including $2.79 milk and 3-for-$5 cereal— to help residents plan their shopping trips.

U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett blamed oil companies for rising gas prices as a local expert rebutted his claim & said supply issues from disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz are pushing rates higher.

Regular gas in Tennessee has reached $3.24 per gallon, up $0.71 from last month.

Murfreesboro City Schools announced that it will continue the Community Eligibility Provision for free breakfast and lunch during the 2025–26 school year.

The program lets all students receive meals without a fee or application.

Rutherford County Schools signed a partnership with Western Governors University to give teachers and staff access to competency-based degrees, professional certificates and a $3,500 scholarship.

The agreement supports recruitment efforts and provides new pathways for career advancement.

The Middle Tennessee State University community raised over $1.2 million (including more than 1,600 gifts) during its ninth True Blue Give campaign held Feb.

10 through Feb. 12. Donations supported scholarships, student services, athletics and academic programs, signaling growing support for university initiatives.

At its March 10 meeting, MCS approved buying six new buses for $1M funded by County Shared Bonds; three are special education buses ($170K each) and three are standard ($168K each) to be delivered within eight months.

The board also honored educators for the year.

Rutherford County will host its 25th Annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, Apr.

18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the historic downtown square, where families can learn about clean air while local groups must submit booth applications by Friday, Apr. 3.

Blue Raiders begin conference play today at Reese Smith Jr. Field in a weekend series against Kennesaw State.

MTSU, holding a 10-7 record and led by a strong batting lineup + quality pitching choices, aims for a postseason berth in Conference USA.

Middle Tennessee announced its 2026 football schedule featuring six home games and three mid-week contests.

The season kicks off with a Sept. 5 opener against Murray State, includes a first meeting with Kansas, and offers tickets on sale & season ticket renewal benefits, with some game dates subject to change.

U.S. Open Cup: Tennessee Tempo FC vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves SC

7-9 p.m. — Richard Siegel Soccer Complex — Check for ticket info — Witness local soccer rivalries unfold in a thrilling cup match.

Line Dance Night

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Hop Springs — Free entry — Enjoy boot-stompin' fun with live country music and line dance instruction.

Da Sunday Open Jam

2:30-6:30 p.m. — Hop Springs — Free entry — Experience the local talent at the Blues Jam with Da Jam Band featuring awesome musicians.

Mastering Situational Awareness Workshop

6-8 p.m. — The Outpost Armory — Free entry — Enhance personal safety skills and gain insights into legal responsibilities in a community-focused setting.

Riverdale Middle School Relays

5:00 p.m. — Riverdale High School — $65 entry fee per school — Compete in exciting middle school relays and field events.

April Fool's Day Painting Event

2-3:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Paid reservation required — Create a whimsical hot dog painting in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Line Dance Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Hop Springs — Free entry — Enjoy boot-stompin' good times with live music and line dance instruction.