Good morning, Murfreesboro.

A $480,000 Tennessee Cash jackpot was won Friday, Dec.

19 at Uncle Sandy’s BP in Murfreesboro — two players won $50,000 on Saturday, Dec. 20 from tickets at Crossroads IGA in Greenbrier and Ian’s Market in Bulls Gap. The Monday night Powerball jackpot is set at $1.6 million.

United Communications celebrated a landmark 2025 by sponsoring over 120 local events and donating more than $250,000 across Middle Tennessee.

The company supported youth programs (including scholarships and education grants) and frontline services while expanding its ultra-fast internet service in key locations.

Retail stores today are open on Christmas Eve with varied hours, including local malls like Mall at Green Hill (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and CoolSprings Galleria (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.); The Avenue Murfreesboro has not listed its hours, so shoppers should call ahead.

The Tennessee Department of Education awarded Tennessee Reward Schools status to Discovery School, Bradley Academy, and Salem Elementary for outstanding achievement and student growth.

This honor highlights the commitment of Murfreesboro City Schools (serving over 9,200 students) and reflects its recent top academic ratings.

MTSU marked 2025 with milestones by opening a $74.8-million engineering building on campus and breaking ground on a $73-million aerospace facility near Shelbyville Airport, which will open in two years.

The university also improved athletics and research and welcomed nearly 4,700 new graduates.

TDOT paused temporary lane closures on interstates and state highways from 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Dec.

23 until 11:59 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2 to ease holiday traffic for millions of travelers—drivers are urged to stay alert and check live updates for current conditions.

CSX is temporarily closing several railroad crossings in Murfreesboro for repairs today; commuters are urged to report blocked crossings to the CSX Public Safety Coordination Center (800-232-0144) or to TDOT (1-800-465-9239) to help track issues.

The MTSU men’s basketball team won 74-58 against Cumberland University on Dec.

21 at the Murphy Center; photos show the Blue Raiders running out of the tunnel and celebrating their regional win.

Coco Fest Fundraiser

5-11 p.m. — Hop Springs — Tickets starting at $0.00 — Enjoy live music from local bands while supporting a cause to provide instruments and lessons to underprivileged children.

Murfreesboro Home Expo

12-6 p.m. — Tennessee Miller Coliseum — Free admission — Discover huge savings, live demos, and a chance to win prizes at this home show.

Walking the Line and Gold Dust Woman Tribute Experience

7 p.m. — Hop Springs — Cost Info Not Provided — Celebrate the music of Johnny Cash and Stevie Nicks with heartfelt tributes in a night of legendary tunes.