Now Enrolling Now Infants
A Season of Thanks
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
For me, there’s no greater blessing than family. This season, I’m grateful for time with my girls, gatherings around campfires and of course, getting to share stories with you all. This community is a beautiful place and I’m happy to be a small part its inspiring journey.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Blessings to you and your family,
JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Matilyn Jennings | matilyn.jennings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Matilyn Jennings, Alicia Stachura, Lynn Caldwell, DeAnn Hayes, Sarah Callender
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
MTSU, Murfreesboro Parks and Rec, Brianna Nowlin, Twila Allen
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
Proverbs 3:5-6
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 11/30/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
Milestones of Service
This Fall, Amelia’s Closet and Liberty’s Station Celebrates Dedication to Murfreesboro Community
Heart of the Community Parks
Murfreesboro’s Parks and Recreation thrives thanks to dedicated staff, visionary leaders, and inclusive programs.
Murfreesboro’s Thriving Nonprofits
Murfreesboro’s nonprofits enrich lives through education, history, art, and culture.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: This month, Drake’s Murfreesboro celebrated their ribbon cutting. Drake’s provides good burgers and good music in a place that you can enjoy at any hour.
Scholarships MAKE A DIFFERENCE
THREE STUDENTS SHARE HOW MTSU SCHOLARSHIPS IMPACTED THEIR COLLEGE CAREER.
ARTICLE BY DEANN HAYS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MTSU
MTSU is one of the oldest universities in Tennessee. It draws a mixture of traditional and nontraditional students to its campus for many reasons, including its affordability, oneof-a-kind programs, scholarship opportunities and diverse campus. Meet three students who took advantage of scholarship opportunities and how they impacted their college careers and lives
Johari Hamilton
Johari Hamilton, a nontraditional student, received multiple scholarships and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA and a degree in journalism with a concentration in public relations and strategic media in 2023.
“I applied for the Honors College Transfer Fellowship. Several weeks later, I received a call from John Vile, dean of the Honors College, telling me I was selected for the fellowship,” she recalled. “Receiving a call from the dean made a positive impression on the community at MTSU and the leadership. MTSU has really fulfilled my personal and educational needs.”
In addition to the Honors College Transfer Fellowship, Johari also received scholarships from the College of Media and Entertainment, the School of Journalism and Strategic Media, the June Anderson Center for Women and Nontraditional Students, MTSU Foundation, Office of Study Abroad and Barnes and Noble Bookstore.
“I graduated in December 2023 Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA. The scholarships also afforded me life-changing opportunities. I am honored and forever grateful for the financial assistance I have received to pursue my dreams. I look forward to paying it forward and helping other students’ dreams become a reality.”
Johari is pursuing her Master of Science in Media and Communication and working fulltime on campus as the coordinator of annual giving, stewardship and donor relations.
“Returning to college was a dream I’d had for a long time.”
Jared McGee grew up in Shelbyville and is a transfer student majoring in political science and minoring in mass communications and journalism. Jared received the Jane Henegar Duke Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to students studying political science.
“This scholarship has allowed me to not focus on the financial burden that college can sometimes be and truly focus on succesfully getting my education. I am incredibly appreciative of this scholarship, and all that MTSU has done for me and my future,” he said.
Jared said one of the main reasons he chose MTSU is because it’s been his family’s school for many years. It wasn’t too far from home, but just far enough.
“My grandmother received her bachelor’s from MTSU and was even the principal at MTSU’s Campus School. Both of my parents are alums of MTSU. I have aunts, uncles, and cousins who have also attended the school and graduated. I also chose MTSU because it was close enough to home to attend weekly dinners with my family, but far enough away to learn how to be more independent and forge a new way for myself,” he explained.
Jared is involved in several campus organizations and is a Student Orientation Assistant, part of the American Democracy Project on campus, and has served as a Blue Elite tour guide, a Student Ambassador, and a Student Government Senator.
Jared McGee
“This scholarship let me focus on being successful in getting my education.”
Tianna McCutcheon
Tianna McCutcheon is an exercise science major with a minor in health and human performance. She decided to attend MTSU because of the opportunities within the exercise science program and because she had family members who attended the university and loved it.
Tianna received the HOPE Scholarship, Pell Grant, the Peggy Perry Belcher Scholarship Fund and a scholarship from MTSU’s Intercultural and Diversity Affairs.
“Receiving these scholarships allows me to pay for my books and housing for the school year,” she said. “Being awarded these scholarships has given me the financial assistance to be on top of my work without dealing with the labor of work. I can be involved on campus and focus on my education.”
She is also involved with multiple organizations on campus, including the Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity Inc., the Black History Month Committee, the MTSU Performing Arts Company, and the Student Government Association, while also serving as a Student Orientation Assistant and as a mentor in the Scholars Academy.
“I can be involved on campus and focused on my education thanks to wonderful mentors, staff and financial aid that helped me through college.”
MILESTONES OF SERVICE
This Fall, Amelia’s Closet and Liberty’s Station Celebrates Dedication to Murfreesboro Community
ARTICLE
BY
MATILYN JENNINGS, ALICIA STACHURA PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS PHOTOGRAPHERS
The heart of Murfreesboro beats stronger thanks to the tireless work of two transformative non-profits: Amelia’s Closet and Liberty’s Station. These organizations, both rooted in compassion and empowerment, are celebrating significant milestones that highlight their ongoing commitment to uplifting individuals facing barriers in their professional and personal lives.
Grand opening ribbon cutting
“Liberty’s Station is more than a training center; it’s a place where lives are changed.”
AMELIA’S CLOSET: A DECADE OF EMPOWERING WOMEN
Amelia’s Closet, founded in 2014, recently marked its 10-year anniversary of empowering women in need. Over the past decade, this nonprofit has provided more than 750 women with professional attire and career development resources, helping them break cycles of poverty and achieve financial independence. The organization has gifted over $184,000 worth of clothing and makeovers to women in the Middle Tennessee area, helping them rebuild their lives and reclaim their confidence.
Amelia’s Closet does more than dress women for success; it prepares them for long-term careers by offering a supportive community and career coaching. Jody Powers, the founder and executive director of Amelia’s Closet, emphasized the transformative
impact the organization has made: “Our mission of empowering women to break poverty cycles and build brighter futures for themselves and their families would not be possible without the generous support of our community.”
As the organization celebrates its 10th anniversary, it looks forward to continuing this legacy of transformation. To commemorate this milestone, Amelia’s Closet will host its Project Restyle 2.0 fundraiser in 2025 at Liberty’s Station, inviting the community to support its mission of helping women thrive in the workforce.
LIBERTY’S STATION: TWO YEARS OF UNLOCKING POTENTIAL
Liberty’s Station, an extension of Amelia’s Closet, celebrated its two-year anniversary in September 2024.
Ribbon Cutting when joined the Chamber
Delaney Neal, Occupational Therapy Assistant at Liberty’s Station
Liberty's Station Stars and Volunteers
Buccal Sculpting A Natural Face Lift Effect
ging A Holistically
This community-funded café, venue, and job training center serves individuals facing employment obstacles, offering hands-on training and job placement in fields such as food service, retail, and customer relations. By working with local businesses and organizations, Liberty’s Station has successfully placed many participants into permanent positions, helping them overcome barriers and build meaningful careers.
Vice President Alicia Stachura highlighted the remarkable impact Liberty’s Station has made in just two years: “The interns who have come through our doors have not only gained valuable skills but have inspired us all with their resilience and determination. Liberty’s Station is more than a training center; it’s a place where lives are changed.”
As Liberty’s Station looks toward the future, it remains committed to its mission of unlocking the God-given potential of individuals in the community. Its approach, grounded in inclusivity and empowerment, has proven to be life-changing for many, inspiring both participants and the community at large.
LOOKING FORWARD
As these two organizations reflect on their journeys, they express deep gratitude for the support they have received from the Murfreesboro community. Both Amelia’s Closet and Liberty’s Station have created spaces where individuals can grow, thrive, and realize their potential, and they remain dedicated to expanding their missions in the years to come.
To continue supporting their vital work, community members are encouraged to donate to Liberty’s Station at libertysstationtn.org and to participate in Amelia’s Closet’s Project Restyle fundraiser in 2025, visit https://ameliascloset. org/. These contributions will help ensure that more lives are transformed, and more individuals are empowered to build brighter futures.
In the ever-evolving world of skincare and facial rejuvenation, there’s one treatment that stands out as a true game-changer: Buccal Sculpting.. Unlike any other facial treatment available today, this innovative treatment is a high-intensity workout for all 43 muscles in your face, delivering immediate and transformative results.
Pure Glow is proud to be the first in Tennessee to be certified in this cutting-edge technique, setting the standar d for facial sculpting in the region. The Buccal Sculpting Facel ift is a signature treatment that blends facial massage tech niques from around the world—drawing from the rich traditi ons of Japan, Hungary, Russia, Dubai, and Paris. By incorp orating these diverse practices with universal methods such as acupressure, tapotement, and lymphatic massage, Pur e Glow has crafted a uniquely comprehensive approach to fa cial rejuvenation.
The results speak for themselves: lifted cheekbones , sculpted jowls, and a more defined jawline. For those who su ffer from TMJ, this treatment offers the added benefit of rel easing tension along the jawline, providing relief and enh ancing comfort. It increases circulation but also lifts, e nhances, tones, and contours the facial muscles, restoring t he face to its youthful, vibrant state.
Whether you're looking to refresh your appearance o r achieve a more sculpted facial structure, we can help. Expe rience the future of facial rejuvenation—right here in Murfree sboro.
Heart of the Community Parks
Murfreesboro’s Parks and Recreation thrives thanks to dedicated staff, visionary leaders, and inclusive programs.
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation is a truly distinctive blend of athletics, nature, cultural arts and so much more – but its people make it the most unique. And we are so appreciative of those that weave our story together day after day.
CARING STAFF
If you have lived in the ‘Boro for any amount of time or visited Sports*Com in the last few decades, chances are high that you know Bart Fite and just how much he loves his job. Bart has been a full-time employee of Parks and Rec since 1978. He has seen the changes and growth in our department and community first-hand. Bart is always ready to help where needed, he has only missed one Polar Plunge in twenty years and loves Customer Appreciation Day. Without hesitation, he says, “The people I see each and every day are what makes this job what it is.” Bart's influence and legacy will touch people for years to come.
VISIONARY LEADERSHIP
We are also so grateful for Dr. Gernell Jenkins who sees the value in what Parks
and Recreation means to everyone, but especially to our youth. She grew up in the community and has worked her way up through the Patterson Park Community Center to become the Facility Superintendent. She has personally experienced how our various programs, athletics and facilities can mold you into your best self. She is not afraid of hard work and strives to level up everything she does for the betterment of those around her.
INCLUSIVE PROGRAMS
“It’s worth every single moment of the time invested,” said Kevin Krieb, one of our very first Miracle League Volunteer Coaches. “I wish everyone could experience the rewards of being on the field with Miracle League.” The Miracle League currently has 10 teams of special needs youth and adults, but this award-winning program does not work without the incredible support of our volunteers. We are so thankful for Coach Kevin and all those that help with Miracle Field.
PHOTOGRAPHY
“
“Our people and their passions are what makes us so unique.”
Nate Williams, Executive Director of Recreation Services.
Kevin Krieb
Dr. Gernell Jenkins
Bart Fite
NOWLIN
Hairstylist | Bombshells Hair Studio
Bombshells Hair Studio Stylist Highlight
Brianna Nowlin discusses personalized looks and building lasting client bonds
ARTICLE BY MATILYN JENNINGS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANNA NOWLIN, TWILA ALLEN
WHAT MAKES YOUR APPROACH UNIQUE TO CARING FOR SOMEONE'S HAIR AND THEIR STYLE?
I really emphasize tailoring hair to suit each client's lifestyle, making sure their cut and color can seamlessly transition from casual, effortless looks to more polished styles. This personalized touch ensures that their hair works with their day-to-day routine, not against it.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A STYLIST?
My favorite part is easily the relationship I build with each individual client that grows each time they sit in my chair. I get to see their beautiful smiles shine when I am done with their hair. Whether it’s the conversation or the new hair they come for, it's such a great feeling to see them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated,
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN?
I am always working on growing my skills, but I specialize specifically in blonding services and extensions. These techniques can really help my clients achieve their dream look.
BRIANNA
Brianna's client
Bailey Stewart
(615) 380-4671
1529 Sarah Court, Ste. A, Murfreesboro, TN www.aireserv.com/murfreesboro/ B www.facebook.com/AireServMurfreesboro
Murfreesboro’s Thriving Nonprofits
Murfreesboro’s nonprofits enrich lives through education, history, art, and culture. Discovery Center
ARTICLE BY MATILYN JENNINGS, SARAH CALLENDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS PHOTOGRAPHERS
Murfreesboro is home to several vibrant nonprofit organizations that play crucial roles in enhancing the cultural, historical, and educational landscape of the community. These organizations not only enrich the lives of Murfreesboro residents but also attract visitors from neighboring areas, offering unique experiences that celebrate history, art, education, and community involvement. Each of these organizations are dedicated to enriching Murfreesboro in engaging and culturally rich ways.
Oaklands Mansion
DISCOVERY CENTER: IGNITING CURIOSITY IN THE YOUNGEST MINDS
The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring exemplifies how education and play can combine to inspire curiosity and future generations. With a mission to engage curious minds, the center offers a safe, interactive space where children and families can explore science, art, and culture. Since its founding 37 years ago, the museum has welcomed over 131,000 visitors annually, making it a key hub for hands-on learning.
What distinguishes Discovery Center is its focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through play. From interactive exhibits exploring nature to cultural events celebrating diversity, the museum offers enriching experiences that encourage creative problem-solving and curiosity.
"Through field trips, public programs, and free community days, Discovery Center connects curiosity to careers, creating a pathway for children to imagine themselves as future leaders and innovators, says Tara MacDougall, President and CEO.
The Heritage Center
Center for the Arts
OAKLANDS: PRESERVING THE PAST FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
The Oaklands Association, Inc. is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the unique history of the Oaklands Mansion, a site that offers a glimpse into over two centuries of local history. Oaklands Mansion, built in multiple phases starting in 1815, is a testament to the adaptive reuse of historical structures and the community's resilience in preserving its heritage. As a nonprofit educational organization, Oaklands strives to inspire an appreciation of history while serving as a key heritage tourism destination in Murfreesboro.
Oaklands Mansion stands as a significant part of Murfreesboro’s complex history, reflecting the contributions of both the Maney family and the enslaved individuals who built and maintained the property. Today, visitors can explore the mansion’s diverse collection of furnishings, artwork, and personal items, offering a more inclusive understanding of the lives of everyone who lived and labored there. As a historic house museum, Oaklands also offers events and educational programs designed to engage and reflect the diverse experiences of all audiences, bringing history to life in an inclusive and respectful manner.
CENTER FOR THE ARTS: ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH CREATIVE EXPRESSION
The Center for the Arts (CFTA) plays a vital role in Murfreesboro's cultural scene, offering year-round performing arts programs and art education. With a mission to enrich the community culturally and economically, CFTA brings people together through theatrical productions, musical performances, art exhibits, and community events, creating a space for artistic expression and personal growth.
Supported by over 500 volunteers annually, CFTA produces 11 to 14 mainstage productions and 10 youth shows through the Center Stage Academy. Additionally, the center offers vocal recitals,
These organizations not only enrich the lives of Murfreesboro residents but also attract visitors from neighboring areas, offering unique experiences that celebrate history, art, education, and community involvement.
free art exhibits, and public classes, engaging approximately 20,000 individuals each year from Rutherford County and surrounding areas.
"Our role at CFTA is to enhance the opportunities for arts and culture through the experiences of visual and performing arts, in a way that brings belonging and community to the middle Tennessee area. We are so blessed to be able to do that in our historic space in downtown Murfreesboro," said Regina Wilkerson Ward, Executive Director.
THE HERITAGE CENTER: CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY TO ITS ROOTS
The Heritage Center of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County offers a unique glimpse into the region's history, serving as a free museum and visitor center near the historic downtown square. Through exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs, the center helps residents and visitors appreciate the historical events that shaped the community.
Center for the Arts
Key exhibits include “The Time that Changed Everything,” which explores the Civil War’s impact on Murfreesboro, including the 1862 Battle of Murfreesboro and Reconstruction. Another exhibit, “Two Families, Two Revolutions,” highlights the stories of two Tennessee families and their pursuit of freedom, providing a personal lens on the region’s history.
“Our goal is to share the incredibly rich and diverse history of Rutherford County with our residents and visitors, serving our community by ensuring that all of our offerings remain free and open to the public,” said Heritage Center coordinator Laura Holder.
MAIN STREET MURFREESBORO:
Main Street Murfreesboro’s mission is to maintain, enhance, and promote the historic downtown as the heart of the community. Through advocacy and collaboration with public, private, and community partners,
their vision is to cultivate an inclusive, diverse, and progressive revitalization program that educates, empowers, and creates a strong sense of place in the historic district.
“The favorite part of my job at Main Street is being a cheerleader for all the amazing organizations and businesses in the historic downtown,” said Sarah Callender, Executive Director of Main Street Murfreesboro. “For the past 39 years, this nonprofit organization has been focused on one area of our city and you can see the changes, the growth, and the excitement that has occurred over those years because of that.”
In collaboration with local nonprofits, Main Street Murfreesboro promotes cultural arts, historical tourism, and community support initiatives. Their work enhances the downtown area through city fund advocacy, infrastructure improvements, and events like the Murfreesboro Saturday Market and Friday Night Live concerts, all aimed at fostering community engagement and supporting small businesses in the historic square.
These nonprofits form a dynamic network enriching Murfreesboro's cultural, educational, and historical landscape. From sparking curiosity at the Discovery Center to preserving history at Oaklands, inspiring creativity at the Center for the Arts, and connecting the community at the Heritage Center, they are committed to making Murfreesboro a better place. Their dedication ensures the community continues to grow, learn, and thrive.
Murfreesboro’s nonprofits form a dynamic network that enriches Murfreesboro’s cultural, educational, and expansive historical landscape.
The Heritage Center
Main Street Murfreesboro
Bombshells Hair Studio
Striving to ensure that all of our customers are return customers, Tri Star Title and Escrow pursues quality customer service as our number one priority.
We implement processes that make our customers feel valued and respected as they make their home buying or selling decisions. Tri Star Title and Escrow has been in business for 19 years, over those years we have created a family like atmosphere.
Our clients whether first time or returning are always welcome to a seat at our table, and we are always eager to serve them in any way we can!
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
HOW TO: seasonal home scents
PFUL TIPS A N D R E C IPES FROM S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts; Kills Bacteria Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory Fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
