Good morning, Murfreesboro.

Local nonprofit organizations invite community members to support upcoming volunteer and donation drives this month.

Greenhouse Ministries is collecting food items for those in need and hosts a volunteer day on Aug. 29 while other groups schedule events on Sept. 10-22 to aid families and seniors in our community.

Baskin-Robbins is having its new shop opening today at 1741 S.

Rutherford Blvd., Suite Q from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where guests can spin a prize wheel, enjoy $1.31 ice cream scoops & live music, and gather in a welcoming space for family fun.

Researchers from MTSU, Middle Tennessee Electric and Qubit Engineering started using quantum inspired analytics on the local grid in August — initial results are expected in 12 weeks.

Neighbors near Scales Elementary report that heavy school drop-off and pickup traffic is blocking driveways—Murfreesboro City Schools is monitoring traffic and working with police to adjust routes and ease congestion.

MTSU’s College of Liberal Arts launched the Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies and Initiatives in Room 202 of Peck Hall on July 1.

The new institute supports interdisciplinary teaching, research and community engagement by encouraging faculty collaboration and expanding student learning and partnerships.

Eligible organizations (local governments, nonprofits, and schools in Rutherford County) can apply for the Community Tree Planting Grant, which offers $500 to $20,000 for tree purchase, planting services, mulch, irrigation, and signage.

The online application window closes at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4.

Ascension Saint Thomas hospitals have rescheduled some elective surgeries to preserve blood supplies amid an ongoing crisis declared by the American Red Cross, and local officials urge donors to help meet emergency needs (especially for Type O, platelets, and AB plasma) as high temperatures and illnesses reduce donations.

Due to a nationwide blood shortage declared on July 13, Ascension Saint Thomas hospitals rescheduled elective surgeries to save blood for emergencies+ The American Red Cross urges local donors to help ease the shortage as supplies remain critically low.