Good morning, Murfreesboro.

A new mural titled 'The Patriot’s Flag' has been unveiled by community volunteers and is on display on the Shacklett’s Photography building at 105 S.

Church St. The artwork, made of 650 hand-painted tiles arranged by color, can be seen from the green space across from the Rutherford County Courthouse.

MTSU has broken ground on Womack Commons, a new five-story housing complex that will add 554 beds when it opens summer, 2027.

The university is also finishing a $54.3 million renovation of the historic Kirksey Old Main building, modernizing campus life for over 20,000 students.

Lucas Holman from UT Horticulture Extension explained that gardeners can plant bush beans, cucumbers, summer squash and zucchini in spaces cleared by onion harvests in recent days — a method that extends summer produce despite dry conditions.

He advises supplementing water as needed to improve crop outcomes.

TWRA advises residents to secure outdoor food and avoid leaving pet food or bird feeders out amid rising bear sightings in Middle Tennessee.

The agency also reported a boating fatality on the Barren Ford River last week and is asking residents to report young turkey sightings through Aug. 1.

MPD reminds residents to celebrate safely by following local fireworks laws, which permit fireworks only from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 3-5 in Murfreesboro & violators may face law enforcement action.

Tennessee now allows the sale of beer, wine, and liquor on the Fourth, following a 2018 law change, though some liquor stores may have limited hours because it is a federal holiday.

Shoppers should verify local store times before heading out.

MFRD urges residents to dispose of fireworks safely by cooling them for 15–20 minutes and soaking them overnight before disposal to prevent fires & injuries during Independence Day celebrations.

Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford celebrated its 1,000th heart surgery in Murfreesboro just over three years after launching its open‑heart program — a milestone that reflects growing access to advanced heart care close to home.

Taste of Rutherford

6-8 p.m. — Oaklands Mansion — $65 General Admission / $150 VIP — Enjoy tastings from over 25 local restaurants with live music at this annual fundraiser.

Free Legal Clinic – Rutherford County

3-5 p.m. — Greenhouse Ministries — Free consultation — Meet with an attorney for confidential advice on civil legal matters.