Good morning, Murfreesboro.

Smackdab Brewing is set to open Murfreesboro’s first downtown brewery in 2026 at 401 W.

Lytle St.—the 3,630 square-foot space will feature a visible brewhouse in the taproom and an outdoor patio. City officials support the project as planning and permitting continue to revitalize downtown.

Oaklands Mansion will host a Halloween Speakeasy on October 17th for small groups of 50 guests, with reservations available at 7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m.—adults pay $75 and casual cocktail attire is expected.

MTSU hosted Professor Megan Craig from Stony Brook University at the College of Education building on Sept.

26 to discuss grief and ways to care for those nearing the end of life. She explained how sitting with the grieving, waiting with the dying, and staying with loved ones teaches support—students and community members listened closely.

Oakland High School in Murfreesboro finished a major renovation that connects two buildings under one roof and now holds up to 2,500 students—offering upgraded science labs, culinary arts facilities, and improved security features.

School officials say the changes will provide safer and modern learning spaces for all students.

MTSU’s Physician Assistant students are taking part in a mass casualty simulation in the Cason-Kennedy Nursing Building—groups have 40 minutes to triage and treat actors injured in a simulated tornado.

The exercise prepares them for real healthcare challenges in rural areas.

Residents in Rutherford County report more black bear sightings as TWRA explains that these animals are returning—drawn by food sources near Percy Priest Lake and the Stones River and incidents like a bear striking a vehicle in nearby Shelbyville last year.

Officers advise staying at a safe distance and promptly reporting any bear encounters.

Rutherford County faces traffic congestion and rising housing costs as its population has surpassed 373,000 with projections to exceed 500,000 by 2045; local leaders in Murfreesboro and nearby areas are launching 54 road projects and new zoning changes to manage growth.

City leaders McFarland and Carr are taking steps—through targeted transportation spending and the PlanRutherford initiative—to balance development with community preservation.

Local hospitals in Murfreesboro are facing strain from a worsening blood shortage that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Red Cross has modernized donation methods like a non-invasive scan and appointment scheduling — yet youth participation remains low, leaving fewer donations for surgeries and cancer treatments.

The statewide TSSAA high school football schedule for Week 7 features numerous games, including region match-ups and out-of-state contests—some airing live on NFHS Network.

Teams and fans in Tennessee should check local school schedules for any updates.

MTSU volleyball split the series with Kennesaw State on Sept.

27—winning the first game in straight sets and losing a four-set match as head coach Alexa Keckler praised the team's performance. They will face Jacksonville State on Oct. 3 in continued conference play.

Micro Wrestling Federation Live Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Happy's Sports Lounge — Tickets from $68 — Experience an unforgettable night of micro wrestling entertainment.

Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders Football Game

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Floyd Stadium — Ticketed event — Catch the excitement as the Blue Raiders host the Bears in a thrilling college football matchup.

Make Your Own Wine with Prohibition

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Hop Springs — $350 for one guest — Create your own wine in a fun, hands-on three-session class at a local winery.

Harry Potter Trivia Night

6-11:59 p.m. — Shelli's Coffee + Social — Limited spots available — Muggles unite for a night of fun-filled Harry Potter trivia competitions.

Modern Calligraphy & Pumpkin Lettering Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — RSRVD Event Studio — Ticket price not specified — Explore the art of modern calligraphy with a festive pumpkin theme for beginners.

Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs. Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders Football

6:30-8 p.m. — Floyd Stadium — Cost varies — Experience college football rivalry live at Floyd Stadium as the Gamecocks take on the Blue Raiders.