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All is Bright

The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities or a combination of it all that reflect that best.

I love the Christmas traditions of Murfreesboro and we hope you and your family will be a part of the festivities.

This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city as to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve compiled an event guide to make your shopping easier and that also supports our local businesses. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy and love.

As this year comes to a close, we'd like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for you, dear reader. We wouldn't be here without you, and we look forward to another great year ahead.

Blessings to you and yours. Happy Holidays!

JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER

@BOROCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Matilyn Jennings | matilyn.jennings@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matilyn Jennings, Lynn Caldwell, DeAnn Hayes

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paige Robinson Photography, MTSU, Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation, Suddenly Simple Organizing, Lindell Jewelers and Appraisals

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

WITNESS HISTO RY

The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum was awarded the National Medal of Arts.

“For cataloging one of the Nation’s great homegrown art forms,” the White House Citation recognized the Museum’s enduring work, which “preserves history, honors giants of the genre, and inspires future generations to write their own songs about the American story.” This is the United States’ highest honor in the arts.

CONGRATULATIONS FELLOW NATIONAL MEDAL OF ARTS RECIPIENTS HONORED ON OCTOBER 21, 2024

Ruth Asawa

Randy A. Batista

Mark Bradford

Ken Burns

Clyde Butcher

Bruce Cohen

Melissa “Missy” Elliott

Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez

Alex Katz

Jo Carole Lauder

Spike Lee

Eva Longoria

Idina Menzel

Herbert I. Ohta

Queen Latifah

Selena Quintanilla

Bruce Sagan

Steven Spielberg

Carrie Mae Weems

LEARN MORE

mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.

Expir es 12/31/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES IN THE MAKING

You don’t have to look far to find the Christmas spirit in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

ARTICLE BY LYNN CALDWELL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MURFREESBORO PARKS AND RECREATION

CHRISTMAS PARADE

One of the most heart-warming ways that generations have celebrated the start of the holiday season for many, many years has been with the much-loved hometown parade. Downtown city streets are lined with eager faces of all ages. Holiday music fills the air as each float passes by decorated with Christmas joy - and do not forget the anticipation of the big sleigh carrying our favorite man in the red suit that symbolizes the end of the holiday parade and the start of the season. The 2024 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade will be on Sunday, December 8th at 2 pm. It is always the second Sunday in December, and is one of our most cherished holiday traditions. More than 175 entries are expected this year, which includes local high school bands,

dance teams, cheer groups, civic organizations, churches, and area businesses. Many of the entries will compete for the “Best of Show” in various categories as they make the mile-long march and share the excitement of the season, waving and passing out candy. By the time that day comes, months of prep work have been taking place. “We are so excited about our theme A Vintage Christmas this year,” says Rachel Singer, Assistant Director of Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation. “We wanted to encourage our parade participants to showcase holiday memories from years past and we can’t wait see what creative decorations they come up with.”

The parade starts at East Main Street by MTSU and ends on Walnut Street, one block past the Square. Find a spot and settle in for great music, floats, candy and of course, you-know-who at the end!

DRIVE-THROUGH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT CANNONSBURGH

Another great tradition is to take a drive through historic Cannonsburgh, which is turned into a twinkling showcase of thousands of lights for three weekends in December. Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday night you can pack the car full of family and friends, turn on some holiday music, grab some hot chocolate and drive through the magical Cannonsburgh Christmas Light display. There is no cost to drive through and it’s a perfect holiday experience to add to your memory-making list.

CHRISTMAS AT PATTERSON

The Patterson Park Community Center has a little holiday secret, and that is the dazzling Christmas at Patterson event on Saturday, December 14th. It’s a magical night that starts with remarkable winter wonderland scenes, live entertainment, unique holiday crafts, refreshments and more. This is a free event and is memorable for all ages. Visit www.MurfreesboroParks.com for all the upcoming holiday events and get ready to make some new memories.

Now Enrolling Now Infants

Toddlers Preschool

Your Holiday Gift Guide

DISCOVER THOUGHTFUL, HIGH-QUALITY GIFTS FROM LOCAL RETAILERS TO BRING JOY TO YOUR LOVED ONES

This holiday season, there are many places in our local area where you can find gifts for your special someone, friends, and family. From unique jewelry to luxurious skincare, we’ve curated an exclusive list featuring offerings from three of our favorite local retailers, filled with thoughtful, high-quality gifts to add to your Christmas list and make holiday shopping a breeze. Find something perfect to bring joy and warmth this season!

Photography by Lindell Jewelers and Appraisals

Lindell Jewelers & Appraisers, located in Brentwood, Tennessee, is a family-owned jewelry store. With over 33 years of experience, they offer a wide range of jewelry, including engagement rings, diamonds, gemstones, and custom designs. As the holiday season approaches, Lindell Jewelers provides personalized jewelry experiences to help you find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Their dedicated and knowledgeable staff is committed to assisting you in selecting that magical piece of jewelry to make the season truly special.

> Photography by Lindell Jewelers and Appraisals

Monkee’s of Murfreesboro is an upscale women’s boutique offering a variety of holiday clothing, shoes, and accessories to fit everyone’s needs! There you can find that amazing dress to impress for your holiday party or the perfect gift for that special someone. From holiday dresses to warm scarves and hats, Monkee’s has everything you need for the holiday season. Monkee’s is located in the Avenues at 2615 Medical Center Pkwy Suite 1375, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.

Monkee’s of Murfreesboro

Paige Robinson

Photo

1. PJ Salvage Flannel Holiday Pajamas and Sheep Wool Slippers | 2. Monkee’s exclusive Softwaves sneakers and Le Feme Chateau classic mini bag | 3. La Feme mauve Chateau bag and Allison Avery holiday mule | 4. DEA faux fur and Shultz Dellia boot | 5. Kerisma Sweaters fall colors collection | 6. Holiday dresses (Celia B, Emily McCarthy, Astr, One Social and Badgely Mishka) | 7. Easton Elle semi-precious stones dipped in 18k gold | 8. Crystal angora beanie and mittens | 9. Paige Sparkle Jeans CONTINUED > Photography by Paige Robinson Photo

Pure Glow Skin Refinery offers the best in Medical Holistic Skincare by pairing the most advanced, unique facial treatments with the highest quality medical-grade skincare to give you the results you desire while experiencing the relaxation you deserve. Pure Glow is located at 308 Uptown Square, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. Go online or call to make an appointment.

Pure Glow Skin Refinery

Paige Robinson Photo

1. Microcurrent Wand $119, Microcurrent Conductive Gel $24 | 2. Cleo Gua Sha Tool $48, Signature Face Oil $32 | 3. Tub Soak $18, Heat Wrap $57.45 | 4. Youth Haus Sheet Mask $8.50, Dream Feet $16.25 | 5. Pure Glow Gift Card | 6. Eminence Stone Crop Body Lotion $39, Kitsch Exfoliating Solid Body Scrub $14 | 7. iS Clinical Active Peel System $92 | 8. Skinbetter Tone Smart SPF 75 Lotion $75 | 9. Weighted, Heatable Spa Blanket $72, Kitsch Satin Sleep Eye Mask $16, Satin Pillow Case - Blush $19

Photography by Paige Robinson Photo

ARTICLE BY DEANN HAYS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MTSU

Study Body President Meet MTSU’s

MICHAI MOSBY: BEING AT MTSU THESE 4 YEARS HAS SHOWN ME SO MUCH ABOUT BEING OPEN TO NEW THINGS AND CHANGE

Michai Mosby is a Middle Tennessee State University senior majoring in public relations and minoring in political science. He's also the Student Government Association president for a second term and is beloved by the MTSU community for his kind spirit and compassionate heart.

Upon meeting him, you'll be greeted with Southern charm and a genuine smile that fills his face. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, Michai refers to his two sisters as his first best friends.

"They taught me much of what I know about perseverance and standing up for yourself," he said.

Michai has been in leadership roles since high school where he served as class president. He's also a licensed minister who gave his first sermon in 2015 when he was 11.

Besides serving as MTSU's student body president and taking 18-course hours this semester, he is also president of the 4K college ministry at First Baptist Church Murfreesboro, a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, the choir director for MTSU's gospel choir and the executive coordinator for Scholar's Academy, which allows new students to arrive to campus early and get acclimated to MTSU before 20,000 students arrive.

"Out of all the roles, one of the things that I am most proud of is being able to stand every day and represent the values my parents and grandparents instilled in me, which is not only integrity, but making sure I do everything with 100% intention," he said.

Michai said MTSU was the first college he toured in high school, but he didn't initially intend to become part of the True Blue community

"If you had asked junior in high school Michai where he was going to college, he would have said he was going to a school in Atlanta."

But Michai knew MTSU was ultimately the place he was meant to be.

"Every day since I decided to come to MTSU, I have not regretted that decision. That's how I know I am in the right space," he said.

As president of the SGA for the last two years, Michai has focused on creating opportunities for unification, engagement, and inclusion.

"I'm proud of doubling SGA's engagement involvement on campus under my leadership," he said. "People say I must be stressed out or burnt out, but no. It doesn't feel like work when you enjoy and feel called to do what you're doing. That's when you know you've tapped into your purpose."

With graduation and his second term ending next year, Michai is focusing on the time he has left at MTSU and the university’s future.

"Being here these four years has shown me so much about being open to new things and change, and I hope MTSU never loses that passion to create a better experience for future Blue Raiders."

He continued, "My hope for MTSU in the future is to continue to change the game when it comes to student care and student involvement, and for us never to lose that longing to be better. We should strive to improve to avoid complacency, challenging the belief that things shouldn’t change just because they've always been a certain way."

For his own future, Michai plans to get a master's degree, possibly in business administration. He will also continue to look to his role model and best friend, his late grandfather, Jerrell Rucker, for inspiration.

"My grandfather taught me to love people, and that's where I get my heart for people. We could talk about anything and everything. This past year, I have reached for my phone to call him, and I'll ask myself, 'WWJD — what would Jerrell do."

"… He poured into me mentally; if I could be half the man he was, I would be satisfied with that. Part of continuing his legacy is also continuing his heart," Michai said.

While he's still trying to figure out his dream job, he knows it will involve serving people and the community.

"I can see myself becoming a pastor because I am very strong in my faith. Congregational care and people care is something I really love," he said. "I could also see myself returning to MTSU one day and being university president and continuing a career in higher education."

Michai graduates in May 2025.

“MTSU changed my life. It really changed the trajectory of my life for the better.”

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ARTICLE BY LEIGH ACHENBACH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUDDENLY SIMPLY ORGANIZING

HOW TO CLEAN UP HOLIDAY CLUTTER

Leigh from Suddenly Simple Organizing shares her holiday storage tips

Airtight plastic bins are the best solution for storing the majority of your holiday décor. If you decorate several different rooms in your home, it may make the most sense for you to store items by which room they go in. Another great option is to sort by category and store items together.

Labeling makes all the difference when it comes to storing your holiday items! Once you have a storage system established, there is no need to figure it all out again every year when it’s time to put things back.

A gift-wrapping station is something that comes in handy year-round. By sorting gift bags by holiday and size, you can easily find what you need and ensure your bags stay in good condition. Keep other wrapping items like scissors, tape, tissue paper, gift tags, and cards stored close by.

“My favorite way to store holiday signs and wreaths is by hanging them! This allows you to see everything you have, utilize vertical space, and preserve the shape and condition of your items.”

Photo by Suddenly Simply Organizing

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org