Good morning, Murfreesboro.

Malik D. Smith, accused of first-degree murder and deadly weapon charges for fatally stabbing Phillip Maddox, Jr. in February at Freedom Recovery House on Ransom Drive in Murfreesboro, will appear in court on May 29 at 9:00 a.m.—his hearing will review the mental health evaluation and may set a trial date—while he remains in custody.

Rutherford County offers five events this weekend including a Cheesecake Festival at Lane Agri Park on Saturday, May 17 where 200 adults receive free mini cheesecakes, a Rockin’ Against Alzheimer’s benefit at Hop Springs on Saturday, May 17 with live '80s music, a free concert at Oaklands Mansion on Sunday, May 18, and a Renaissance Festival in Arrington on May 17 and May 18. Today at 6:30 p.m.—paddle boarders at Barfield Crescent Park can join a beginner-friendly session while families explore local attractions.

Nearly 100 student veterans earned their degrees from MTSU at commencement ceremonies held May 9-10 at Murphy Center—Chuck Bolding was honored for overcoming health challenges to graduate summa cum laude while Rashieq Cockerham received recognition for his research and will return to the Marines.

The Murfreesboro Police Department, along with partner agencies, will host a motorcycle safety event tomorrow from 10 a.m. to noon at Bumpus Harley-Davidson on NW Broad Street.

Officers will meet local motorcyclists to discuss speeding and safe riding—this event follows investigations of fatal crashes and multiple injury wrecks in April.

State Rep. Mike Sparks and State Sen. Shane Reeves secured $250K in state funding for the preservation of Rutherford County’s Cemetery Community.

The Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration will administer $125K to Friends of Cemetery School, Inc. & $125K to the Mel Malone Family Foundation to restore the historic Cemetery School in Murfreesboro & honor local heritage.

TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center in Smyrna filed a certificate of need application to build a nearly $19 million freestanding emergency department on a 3-acre site where Eckerds Pharmacy once stood on Murfreesboro’s south side—if approved, the facility will include 11 exam rooms with a trauma room and a dedicated ambulance base with three vehicles for rapid patient transfer.

Spring Fling, one of Tennessee’s biggest high school sports events, will run from May 20 to May 23 in Murfreesboro as state champions are crowned in baseball, softball, boys soccer, track and field, and tennis.

Organizers said local volunteers are needed to help with event logistics for the Olympic-style celebration expected to boost the local economy by an estimated $4.8 million.

East Robertson clinched its third state tournament berth in a sweep of Chattanooga School of Liberal Arts with wins of 11—1 and 12—5 and will face the winner of Eagleville and Hollow Rock-Bruceton at 4 p.m. on Tuesday at Eagleville High School—senior players celebrated their final home game with special mementos from the field.

27th Annual Heart of Tennessee USBC Mixed Tournament

8:30 a.m. & 12 p.m. — Murfreesboro Strike & Spare — Entry fees apply — Compete in this festive bowling tournament for mixed teams.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — TailGate Brewery Murfreesboro — Ticketed event — Unleash your creativity with modern calligraphy in a relaxed brewery setting.

Asian American Pacific Islander Celebration

10 AM – 5 PM — Discovery Center at Murfree Spring — Free entry — Celebrate cultural diversity with interactive exhibits and performances for the whole family.

ODP South Intra-Regional Combine

8:00 a.m. — Richard Siegel Soccer Complex — Registration fee may apply — Participate in a skill assessment and showcase for aspiring soccer athletes.

Huge Stockpile Garage Sale

7 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Ashwood Cove Apartments — Bargain finds await — Discover treasures at this neighborhood garage sale in a family-friendly community.

Summertime Make & Take Workshop

2-2:45 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Murfreesboro — Pre-registration required — Create a beautiful home décor piece step-by-step with provided materials.

Banana Pudding Festival

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Hop Springs — Free entry — Indulge in delicious banana pudding flavors at this sweet community celebration.

The Taste Food Festival

11 AM – 4 PM — Patterson Park Community Center — Admission varies — A vibrant community celebration featuring food tastings, live music, and local vendors.