Morning
Murfreesboro
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Murfreesboro. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ On Tuesday, Run For The Wall motorcyclists visited the Tennessee State Veterans Home during their ride to the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., and Sheriff’s Deputies Tidwell and Lynn escorted riders + allowed Bloodhound Fred to greet veterans. The annual ride honors POWs and MIAs. Rutherford County Source
- ➤ Jordan McCullough was honored in a rainy parade as locals gathered in Murfreesboro, celebrating how adult guidance helps kids reach their dreams (Susan Steen emphasizes the power of community mentorship). Murfreesboro Post
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The Alley on Main owners plan to build a new 80-seat restaurant and two wedding venues on government land off Medical Center Parkway and Gateway Boulevard. The project, featuring pizza and green space, is expected to generate nearly $6.5 million over 20 years. The Daily News Journal
- ➤ Construction is underway at the future UFC Gym location (the old YMCA on Thompson Lane across from Walmart) after permits were approved Monday the 18th; the owner plans a mid-October opening. Murfreesboro.com
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ On May 16, Murfreesboro hosted the third annual Gallagher Fest downtown with more than a dozen acts including Shadowgrass, Sicard Hollow and Airshow. The festival featured food trucks, vendor booths and a flat-picking contest, and organizers said it will grow bigger and better each year. The Daily News Journal
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Main Street Media of Tennessee announced that reporter Shauna Reynolds will begin in July to cover growth and development issues across Middle Tennessee. She will report on traffic, roads, water, schools and new residential projects as part of Report for America's effort to boost local news. Murfreesboro Post
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Third grade reading scores were released on May 18, starting a fast timeline for retests and appeals to help students advance to fourth grade. Retake tests are scheduled from May 20 to May 29, with appeal options from May 28 to June 26 and final retention decisions expected in July. The Daily News Journal
- ➤ At MTSU's graduation on May 20, 2026, Big Machine Records CEO Scott Borchetta faced boos when he said AI is a tool for adapting to fast-changing media trends. He urged graduates to trust their own judgment and adapt to future challenges. The Daily News Journal
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services invites community members to honor three unclaimed veterans laid to rest at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery (7931 McCrory Lane). The ceremony will be held Friday, May 22 at 1 p.m. to recognize their service. Murfreesboro Post
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Animal Rescue Corps worked from May 9 to 14 to rescue 133 dogs, two cats and five kittens from a Rutherford County home where overcrowding and poor care led to untreated health issues — the animals are now receiving emergency care and will soon join adoption programs. Rutherford County Source
- ➤ Dr. Mark Kestner advises Murfreesboro patients to review their medications and consult their doctors to avoid polypharmacy risks that can lead to hospitalizations and longer stays. He suggests creating a complete list (including dosages and conditions) to help prevent harmful drug interactions. Murfreesboro Post
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Murfreesboro Strawberry Festival
10 AM – 4 PM — Hop Springs — Tickets starting at $0.00 — Celebrate the sweetness of strawberries with family-friendly activities and fun.
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SciFri Book Club at Cedar Glade Brews
5:30-6:30 p.m. — Cedar Glade Brews — Free entry — Dive into discussions about 'Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law' with fellow science enthusiasts.
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Paint Pour Experience
7-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Payment required — Unleash your creativity by pouring paint on two canvases with guided instruction.
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Free Legal Assistance at Cannon County Courthouse
9-11 AM — Cannon County Courthouse — Free entry — Receive expert legal guidance and support during walk-in hours.
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A Midsummer Night's Dream
June 5-7, 12-14 — Hop Springs — Ticket prices vary — Experience the whimsical chaos of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy set under the stars.
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Wedi Certified Installer Workshop
5:00 p.m. — Floor and Decor — Free entry — Get wedi certified and learn about waterproof shower systems while enjoying food and drinks.
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Reveal the authorAbout Morning Murfreesboro
Welcome to the Morning Murfreesboro, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Murfreesboro, Tennessee community. If you like the Morning Murfreesboro, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Murfreesboro.
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