Throughout January – Christmas Tree Disposals
Instead of trashing your Christmas tree in the landfill, recycle it back to nature. Make sure it is free of everything including tinsel, lights, tree stand, ornaments and flocking. Trees are then shredded and turned to mulch. They are used on trails in the parks and mulch by your neighbors, so they must be clean. For more information, contact 615-542-4633 or mkeisling@rutherfordcountytn.gov. Rutherford County drop-off points include Cannonsburgh, the Murfreesboro Solid Waste Facility, Lee Victory Recreation Park and La Vergne Public Works Facility.
Mondays and Saturdays – Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Join Barnes & Noble (2615 Medical Center Pkwy.) every Monday and Saturday from 11–11:30 a.m. in the children’s department for a story, coloring and fun. For more information, visit stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2292.
Mondays – Girls Who Code
Girls Who Code is a nonprofit whose aim is to support and increase the number of women in computer science. The organization is working to close the gender employment difference in technology and change the image of what a programmer looks like. The group meets at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) every Monday through from 4:30–6:30 p.m. For more information, contact angela@okasinc.org or 615-904-4493 or visit girlswhocode.com.
Wednesdays – Wild Things at the Wilderness
Attend Wild Things at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.) Wednesdays in January from 9:30–10 a.m. for ages 1–4 accompanied by an adult. Children learn of the wonders of nature with each weekly session consisting of unique songs and a discussion about the animal of the week. Learn a simple craft and participate in a nature hike or fun activity revolving around the wonderful, wacky wildlife that lives in Tennessee. Registration is required. Admission is $3 per person. For more information, contact 615-217-3017 or outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov.
Wednesdays – Boro2Square Runners
Boro2Square Runners is a running group for individuals interested in running and socializing with other runners. Weekly runs begin at 6 p.m. each Wednesday, starting from the Boulevard Bar and Grill, 2154 Middle Tennessee Blvd. Distances covered are 3–5 miles, with runners of all paces welcome to participate. For more information, visit facebook.com/boro2square.
Wednesdays – Writers Group
The Murfreesboro Writers Group, comprised of local writers who seek to improve their work through mutual critique, meets every Wednesday at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St.) from 6–8 p.m. You might hear science fiction, poetry, alternate reality, memoir, fantasy, mystery, literary fiction, or more. For more information, find Murfreesboro Writers Group on Facebook, email sayhello@murfreesborowritersgroup.com, call 615-893-4131 or visit rclstn.org.
Thursdays – Chess Club
The Murfreesboro Chess Club meets each Thursday at 6 p.m. at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 907 E. Main St. Chess players of all levels are invited to come meet and play against other local chess enthusiasts. For more information, call 615-713-9256 or email murfreesborochess@gmail.com.
Thursdays – Financial Peace University
Almost 5 million people have taken control of their money with the easy-to-follow lessons they learned in Financial Peace University. Join this special 12-week series offered at Linebaugh Public Library, beginning Thursday, Jan. 10, at 6 p.m. Edward Jones teaches practical ways to create a budget, pay off debt, make wise spending choices and save money for the future on the first floor Club Room at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.). For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visitrclstn.org.
Fridays – Game Night & Chess Club
Hang out in and around the Barnes & Noble cafe (2615 Medical Center Pkwy.) on Fridays from 6–9 p.m. to enjoy any of the available demo games or play with the local Chess Club. Anyone is welcome to participate. For more information, call 615-895-8580.
Fridays – Free Financial Fridays Public Education
Learn budgeting, credit building, debt consolidation, home buying, refinancing and building wealth at Free Financial Fridays (free to the public; live webinar available) every Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (120 E. Main St. #310). Sign up at naltm.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit naltm.com or contact info@naltm.com.
Saturdays – Historical Society Opens Ransom School
The Rutherford County Historical Society invites everyone to visit Ransom School (717 N. Academy St.) Saturday mornings from 9 a.m.–noon and discuss history while enjoying a cup of coffee. Bring old photos and memorabilia, and leave with a better understanding of, and appreciation for, your past. Volunteers needed. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org.
Jan. 4 – Toddler Time With Thomas
Toddlers get to play while learning to wait their turn, follow directions and work together to accomplish simple goals. The focus is on body part recognition, cognitive skill development and, of course, fun. Join Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) Friday, Jan. 4, from 10–10:45 a.m. Admission is $3 per visit. For more information, contact 615-895-5040 or athletics@murfreesborotn.gov.
Jan. 5 – Fitness and Wellness Health Fair
Join CoreLife Eatery (2330 Medical Center Pkwy.) for information on local fitness, wellness and health businesses at its Fitness and Wellness Fair on Saturday, Jan. 5, from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Support local businesses and sign up for CoreLife’s 21-Day Challenge with bonus swag bags for the first 30 people who stop in alongside raffles, giveaways and surprises. Learn how to take care of your body and mind through whole foods, movement and overall well-being. Admission is free. All pre-registered attendees will get 25 percent off their meal (but registration is not required).
Jan. 5 – Polar Bear Plunge
Join the Arctic Adventure and the Polar Bear Plunge on Saturday, Jan. 5, from 8:30–10 a.m. in the gym and in SportsCom’s outdoor pool (2310 Memorial Blvd.). The annual tradition includes games, food and fun. Admission is non-perishable food to be distributed to needy individuals through Greenhouse Ministries. For more information, call 615-895-5040.
Jan. 7 – New Year New You Class
Don’t just start the New Year off right; keep it up all year ’round. These classes at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) from 10:15–11:25 a.m. target those problem areas that greatly affect daily life. By the end of the year, your body should be balanced, strong, flexible and better than ever. All classes may include mat/floor work, stretching, body weight exercises, light weights, bands, foam rollers and massage balls. Topics include: back health in April, May and June; foot health in July, August and September; and myofascial release in October, November and December. Admission is $4 or facility pass. For more information, contact 615-895-5040 or adavidson@murfreesborotn.gov.
Jan. 8 – Financial Seminar Series at Linebaugh Public Library
Edward Jones is offering a year-long series of monthly financial seminars at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.), beginning with a seminar on saving for college on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 6 p.m. Subsequent seminars are held the second Tuesday of each month. Learn how to focus on your long-term financial objectives. American Funds talks about 529 education savings plans which are designed to help make investing for education easy and accessible to everyone; learn about tax benefits, too. For more information, RSVP at 615-895-8282 or visit rclstn.org.
Jan. 8 – Rutherford Cable
Join the Rutherford Cable January Breakfast Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 8, from 7:15–9 a.m., with Krista Hawkins’ “The Long Way Is the Shortcut.” Krista Hawkins, co-founder of Future Legacy Leaders, emphasizes how to approach 2019’s goal-setting differently. Hawkins has invested her career in helping others to create new beginnings. Bring plenty of business cards to make connections. Rutherford Cable meets at the Stones River Country Club (1830 NW Broad St.). For more information, contact yourrutherfordcable@gmail.com or visit rutherfordcable.org.
Jan. 8 – Myra Wilkinson Book Signing
Linebaugh Library hosts local author Myra Wilkinson for a book signing on Tuesday, Jan. 8, from 5–7:30 p.m. (105 W. Vine St.). Wilkinson signs and sells copies of her book, Start Each Day With a Smile, published August 2018. The book encourages a journey of self-care, self-discovery and personal growth utilizing journaling to help you dig deep within, cultivating self-love while exploring your personal needs and learning to practice self-care. Myra Wilkinson is a licensed marriage and family therapist servicing Murfreesboro and surrounding areas. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit rclstn.org.
Jan. 9 – Living Sent Luncheon
Join the Living Sent Luncheon at the Experience Church (521 Old Salem Rd.) on Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 11:30 a.m. Derek Truelove will deliver the God story. Truelove is a risk management specialist for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty and is involved with Wilson County Fair Board, Citizens Academy of the Wilson County Sheriff Alumni Association, Living Sent Ministries and Wilson County Chamber of Commerce. Monica Schmelter is the application speaker. She has devoted a lot of her time to spreading the Christian word, and her last book, Messy to Meaningful, co-written by comedic mother-daughter duo Rhonda and Kaley Rhea, was released in 2018 by Bold Vision Books. Living Sent encourages area business leaders to live out their Christian faith through their businesses to help build the kingdom of God, and to connect Sunday to Monday. For more information, visit livingsentministries.org.
Jan 11 – Frozen Family Fun Night
Make some snow with your favorite winter characters as Elsa, Anna and Olaf join a winter celebration at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) on Friday, Jan. 11, from 6–8 p.m. Sing, dance, eat snacks, and make crafts and frozen experiments while supplies last. Costumes are encouraged. Admission is $2. Registration suggested through CommunityPass. For more information, contact 615-459-9710 or miranda.pewitt@townofsmyrna.org, or visit townofsmyrna.org.
Jan. 12 – Master Food Classes
Linebaugh Public Library hosts the Rutherford County Master Food Volunteers for a series of classes starting Jan. 12 and continuing the second Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. This group of Extension Family and Consumer Sciences helpers educate communities about healthy foods and skills such as planning meals, shopping, cooking, freezing foods and safe food handling. Classes run through July, excluding the month of April. January’s topic is “Cooking for One or Two, Soups.” Recipes are shared with steps to make things easy. Classes are at the Club Room on the first floor of the library (105 W. Vine St.) and are free and open to the public. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit rclstn.org.
Jan. 12 – Mommy and Me Class
All Murfreesboro moms are invited to CoreLife Eatery (2330 Medical Center Pkwy.) on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 10–11 a.m. for a Mommy and Me Class. Get moving in a fun workout with your kids in a great opportunity to meet and connect with other moms. Learn more about the new Mommy & Me – Move, Meal, Motivation Class that Vanessa offers Tuesdays and Thursdays, allowing moms to work out while the kids play. For more information, contact strong4byv@gmail.com.
Jan. 13 – Start Each Day With a Smile
Join Myra Wilkinson, LMFT, and five amazing panelists to discuss self-care and ways to practice self-care daily at Patterson Park (521 Mercury Blvd.) from 1:30–4:30 p.m. Learn how to define, discuss the importance of and acknowledge the challenges of self-care. Start implementing change in different areas of your life such as emotional/mental, career, personal, physical and relationships. Leave with the book Start Each Day With a Smile, a five-week journey of self-care, self-discovery and personal growth and two free self-care gifts. For more information, visit mwilkinsonconsulting.org/shop.
Jan. 14 – Center for the Arts Winter Classes
Winter classes for children ages 5–18 begin at the Center for the Arts (110 W. College St.) on Jan. 14. The Center Stage Academy puts you in the spotlight and offers classes that include acting, singing, dancing and production. The production classes include Annie, Jr.. For more information, call 615-904-ARTS (2787) or visit boroarts.org.
Jan. 14 and 28 – NASP Meeting
NASP (Nashville Association of Sales Professionals) is a nonprofit, professional organization providing a positive forum for skill enhancement, training and networking for career sales people. They meet the second and fourth Monday of each month (Jan. 14 and 28) at Burger Bar Restaurant (1850 Old Fort Pkwy.). Hear expert presentations from outstanding motivational and sales training speakers. You are invited to expand your horizons by networking with peers and making new friends in the sales arena. For more information, visit nashville-nasp.org.
Jan. 16 – C-SPAN Bus
The C-SPAN Bus will visit Middle Tennessee State University on Wednesday, Jan. 16, to engage students, teachers, community members and elected officials. Through interactive kiosks and demonstrations aboard the bus, visitors will learn about C-SPAN’s in-depth coverage of the American political process and comprehensive online educational resources, including C-SPAN.org, an extensive video library containing close to 250,000 hours of searchable content for viewing, research and education purposes, dating back to 1987. The bus will be parked in the MTSU Honors College parking lot from 12:30–2 p.m. on Jan. 16. For more information, visit C-SPAN.org/community.
Jan. 16 – Twenty-one-day CoreLife Challenge
Join CoreLife Eatery in launching its 21-Day CoreLife Challenge on Wednesday, Jan. 16. This challenge is free and available to anyone who wants to make a real change in 2019. This 21-day process helps people recharge, refuel and get on the path towards living a healthier lifestyle. Gain the tools to detox along with refueling the body with the foods it was meant to eat. Participants get daily educations and motivational emails as well as special offers and treats along the way. All 49 CoreLife Eateries in the country are participating. For more information, visit corelifeeatery.com.
Jan. 17 – The Connection
Local small business owners will gather for The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 17, at 1935 S. Church St. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, free, no-obligation event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. A discussion will encourage participation from those in attendance, asking them to articulate their vision for their business and calling for examples of some of the business challenges and solutions they are experiencing. The series will continue the third Thursday of each month.
Opening Jan 19 – Wedding Dresses Through the Decades
Oaklands Mansion once again presents the award-winning exhibit, “Wedding Dresses Through the Decades,” Jan. 19–March 3 (900 N. Maney Ave.). Enjoy stories of the community through wedding gowns spanning 150 years. Step back into time and experience the common threads that weave lives together while exploring women’s history, fashion, culture and the history of the community. The exhibit is open Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sundays 1–4 p.m. Admission is $10 per person. Mansion tours available. For more information, contact 615-893-0022 or mb@oaklandsmansion.org.
Jan 20 – Campfire and Total Lunar Eclipse
School is out on Monday, so join the SOAC at Sharp Springs Natural Area (1000 Espey Dr.) around the campfire for a chance to view the blood moon total lunar eclipse and enjoy yummy s’mores on Sunday night, Jan. 20. Dress warmly. Food is first come, first serve. Event cancelled if it rains. Admission is $2. All ages welcome. Registration is suggested through Community Pass. For more information, contact mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org or visit the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center Facebook.
Jan. 26 – MLK Breakfast
Join Carolyn Cox at the MTSU James Union Building (516 Alma Mater Dr.) on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9–11 a.m. as the Murfreesboro Branch of the NAACP celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For tickets or more information, visit mlkbreakfasttickets.eventbrite.com.
Jan. 26 – You Are What You Eat
Join Our Daily Bread CACFP for a training session open to all unregulated and licensed childcare providers in the state of Tennessee on Saturday, Jan 26, from 9 a.m.–noon. Get provided with all of your required annual Child and Adult Care Food Program training needed for the year. The guest speaker topic is child physical and sexual abuse. All attendees receive a certificate with credited training hours. Licensed or unregulated childcare homes, centers and after-school facilities are all encouraged to attend. For more information, visit odbcacfp.org.
Feb. 2 – Sights and Sounds of the Dong People’s New Year
This special film screening shows the lives and culture of the Dong ethnic people of Southwestern China. An ethnic group of China, the Dong people have unique traditions, music and language (Kam) that are different from other parts of China. With no written language until 1958, the Dong wear vivid costumes and perform in large chorale groups to sing about their deep history. Learn more about this special culture at MTSU, Room 160, College of Education Building (1301 E. Main St.) on Saturday, Feb. 2, from 2–5 p.m. Admission is free. In 2009, the Dong’s “Grand Song” and choir was listed as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). For more information, call 615-904-8121 or visit the CCMCMTSU Facebook Page (MTSU Center for Chinese Music and Culture).
Feb. 2 – MTSU Groundhog Day Luncheon
MTSU’s annual Groundhog Day Luncheon returns Monday, Feb. 2, at 11:30 a.m. inside Murphy Center, as head coach Jim McGuire and the MTSU Blue Raider Baseball team kick off their 2019 campaign. The popular luncheon features the traditional menu of ham hocks, white beans, tomato salad, green onions, cornbread, chocolate cake and ice cream. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Reservations can be made by calling 615-898-5261. For more information, visit goblueraiders.com.
Feb. 2 – Cedars Frostbite Half Marathon
Come out for the Cedars Frostbite Half Marathon on Saturday, Feb. 2, at 11 a.m. at Cedars of Lebanon State Park (328 Cedar Forest Rd.). Register before Jan. 25 without late fees at reg2run.com. For more information, contact 615-390-6977 or tomasdepaulis@att.net. The Frostbite Running Club is a nonprofit organization founded in 1996 and is a member of Road Runners Club of America. The Frostbite Half Marathon was held in Montgomery Bell State Park from 1979 to 2007, then in Cedars of Lebanon State Park from 2008 onward The race is also part of the Tennessee State Park Running Tour, a series of 20 races staged in parks around the state each year. For more information, visit frostbiterc.org.
Through Feb. 15 – Flag Football Signups
Ages 7–13 can sign up for the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Flag Football League through Feb. 15. Program signup is $75 and includes jersey, game flags and a membership to USA Football. Sign up at register.communitypass.net. For more information, contact Marty Smith at 615-459-9742 ext. 2622 or marty.smith@townofsmyrna.org or Kyle Mooney at 615-459-9742 ext. 2615 or kyle.mooney@townofsmyrna.org.
