








Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
For me, one of the greatest investments I’ve ever made has been in my relationships, particularly with my family. Life gets busy, and it's easy to get caught up in work and responsibilities, but I’ve learned that the moments I set aside to have meaningful conversations, share a meal, or just be present with my loved ones are the ones that truly matter.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.
JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Matilyn Jennings | matilyn.jennings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Matilyn Jennings, Lynn Caldwell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Preventia Security, Wag It Better Family Dog
Training and Boutique, My 4 Dogs Academy and Spa, Patricia Drach
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Located at 1720 Old Fort Parkway, #L290, Murfreesboro - Amped Fitness offers a variety of exclusive amenities. Their inclusive, welcoming, and feel-good community makes it easy for you to achieve your fitness goals. And they are open 24/7!
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MeTime is licensed to care for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old. Reservations are only needed if your child is younger than 12 months or needs more individualized care
Licensed by the Health Department offering hot meal options and snacks
M-TH: 8AM-10PM | F&S: 8AM-Midnight | Sun: Noon-9PM
The Big Blue Marble Academy will be located at 5206 Jack Byrnes Drive Murfreesboro, TN 37128. It is currently under construction and will be coming soon. At Big Blue Marble Academy they make getting ready for school fun. Their teachers combine their research-based curriculum with engaging instruction to foster curiosity and confidence.
At Secure Dental their mission is to transform patients’ smiles and lives through personalized and exceptional dental care. Located at 804 N Thompson Ln Murfreesboro, TN 37129.
WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE EVENTS | BANQUETS | PARTIES
Perhaps you’ve attended an event in the 4th floor Banquet Room, but did you know that The View has two smaller spaces sized for business events, corporate luncheons, and board meetings? And for a limited time, new users get our best o er ever · Onsite eateries o ering catered breakfast and lunch packages
A wrap-around terrace or a garden patio Full AV capabilities Weekday meetings in our corporate venues can be reserved for four hours at the following rates: is discounted rate is for a 4-hour rental... no hourly charges, just one low price!
www.theviewatfountains.com | 1500 Medical Center Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
ARTICLE BY LYNN CALDWELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MURFREESBORO PARKS AND RECREATION
Our community is about to embark on some truly incredible additions in the very near future. Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation has three big projects in the works that will be a long-term investment for the people of Murfreesboro and generations to come.
According to Nate Williams, Executive Director of Recreation Services for Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation there is a lot to look forward to. “This is just an exciting time for the city”, shares Nate. “We have had so many substantial projects on the horizon for a while, and they are all coming to fruition in the next year. We definitely have great things happening here.”
One of the most exciting projects is the new 153-acre Veterans Park, located on the west side of Murfreesboro. This park will include a vast amount of green space incorporating a comprehensive network of paved and stone trails. It will also have four large pavilions that will be available to rent for family gatherings, reunions and birthday celebrations, and will also offer programming such as outdoor education. Veterans Park will also have eight pickleball courts. The courts will offer lighting for evening play, and the additional courts will help fulfill the increasing demand for the widely popular sport. There will also be a destination playground at Veterans Park, and it will be the largest of all the area playgrounds. It will also showcase the inclusive amenities that families really enjoy.
Something that will be unique at Veterans Park is the event space that is being created. “There has been a need for something like this for quite some time,” explained Nate. “We have designed a space in the middle of the park that will allow
us to host musical concerts, festivals and other special events.” This space is going to be a great place for the community to gather and enjoy. The Veterans Park will also be home to an 130-foot-high American flag that will be anchored in the center of the park.
Another new project that is in the works is the outdoor improvements at Patterson Park Community Center. Patterson Park will be getting a new inclusive playground and a splash pad, as well as an additional 80 parking spaces. “This is an exciting extension of all the activities and programming that we currently have going on at Patterson,” said Nate. “And there is actually a lot of excitement around the parking lot as well – because it is such a popular spot for the community.” The space between the community center and the Bradley Academy school will be a great addition for the community to be able to come and play and utilize. The splash pad will be the first one of its kind to be implemented at a Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation facility.
Finally, the original Old Fort Park area that was built in the 1970s is getting a major face lift with the renovations of the ballfield. This will include new lighting, modern fencing and the installation of a synthetic turf surface. The improvements will also include a new elevated drainage system that will address the issues with stormwater. Just recently the Old Fort Golf Course was renovated, an upgrade to the tennis and pickleball courts and the new Skate Park and pump Track was completed.
There are so many great things happening in our community. Visit www.MurfreesboroParks.com for more information and project updates.
“We have had so many substantial projects on the horizon for a while, and they are all coming to fruition in the next year.” - Nate Williams
Veterans Park will include a vast amount of green space incorporating a comprehensive network of paved and stone trails.
ARTICLE BY MATTIE JENNINGS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOMBSHELLS HAIR STUDIO
INSIDE BOMBSHELLS HAIR STUDIO: CRAFTING CONFIDENCE, ONE STYLE AT A TIME
At Bombshells Hair Studio, hairstyling is more than just a profession—it’s an art form. With a team of passionate stylists dedicated to creativity, innovation, and personal connection, this salon has cultivated a reputation for excellence and community. Two of its talented stylists, Casi Brown and Carrie Raines, share their journeys, specialties, and what makes Bombshells a truly special place.
Q: How did you get started in the beauty industry?
Casi: My love for hairstyling started with a fascination for creativity and beauty. It felt like the perfect blend of artistic expression and personal connection. After cosmetology school, I found my home at Bombshells, a place that truly inspires me.
Bombshells is family. Everyone here supports one another, from the owner to the front desk and our apprentices. It’s a culture of help, not competition.
Carrie: I have always loved the beauty industry. As a child, I was captivated by my mom’s rock-androll-themed salon experiences, and later, I loved helping my brother with 80s and 90s hairstyles. Even after receiving a college scholarship, I knew traditional schooling wasn’t for me—I just wanted to make people feel beautiful. When we moved to Murfreesboro, I found my perfect fit at Bombshells.
Q: What is your favorite specialty or technique?
Casi: I love making my clients feel their best with natural, lived-in color. Blending techniques like balayage and subtle highlights create soft, effortless looks that grow out beautifully.
Carrie: My specialty is creating natural, sunkissed hair with seamless blends. Whether it’s gray coverage, balayage, or color transformations, I love ensuring my clients leave feeling confident.
Q: How does Bombshells keep up with trends and education?
Casi: Continuing education is a top priority. We have monthly education sessions with top industry educators, and I stay inspired by attending conventions and following industry leaders online.
Carrie: We’re a learning salon. We not only attend training but also learn from each other—our apprentices bring in fresh perspectives that keep us on our toes.
Q: Can you share a memorable client transformation?
Casi: I had a client hesitant about a big change, but after taking the leap, she was glowing with confidence. Seeing that joy is why I love what I do.
Carrie: A recent favorite was a gray-blending transformation. My client had been dyeing her grays dark brown for years, but she was ready to embrace her natural silver. The process took time, but she now rocks a stunning silver fox look!
Q: What makes Bombshells special to you?
Casi: The sense of community and growth. It’s not just a job—it’s a place where we uplift each other.
Q: Tell us about Bombshells’ nonprofit initiative, A Wig’s Story.
Carrie: A Wig’s Story provides free, high-quality wigs to individuals undergoing cancer treatments. We’ve partnered with local businesses to raise funds and awareness, ensuring we can continue to support those in need. Our next big fundraiser is in October—stay tuned and wear your pink!
ARTICLE BY MATTIE JENNINGS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICIA DRACH, PROVIDED
Investing in professional dog training strengthens the bond between owners and their pets while ensuring a harmonious home environment. Heather Moore, owner of Wag it Better Family Dog Training and Boutique, believes that a trained dog enjoys a richer life, participating in more family activities and feeling secure in various settings. “Training makes life smoother for everyone involved,” she explains. Jennifer White, owner of My 4 Dogs Academy and Spa, agrees, emphasizing that professional training is essential for preventing long-term behavioral issues. “It’s easier to start with positive behaviors than to correct unwanted ones,” she says. Training helps prevent leash reactivity, jumping, and resource guarding, making life more enjoyable for both pet and owner.
Many pet owners struggle with behavioral issues that could have been prevented with early training. Moore identifies housetraining as one of the biggest challenges. “House training can make or break whether people keep their dog. The key is consistency and a schedule,” she advises. White highlights other common issues like jumping on people, leash pulling, and reactivity. “If not addressed early, these can become ingrained habits that are harder to break,” she says. Training provides structure, ensuring dogs develop appropriate behaviors that make them more adaptable and well-mannered.
Many pet owners view boarding and daycare as just a place for dogs to stay, but structured programs provide much more. White emphasizes the importance of socialization, noting that well-socialized dogs are more confident and adaptable. “Structured daycare helps dogs develop positive social skills while engaging in supervised play and mental stimulation,” she says.
Moore adds that daycare environments help reduce anxiety by exposing dogs to new situations in a controlled, positive manner. “Proper socialization helps dogs feel comfortable and confident, reducing fear-based reactions and stress,” she explains.
Both Moore and White have seen dramatic changes in dogs through training and structured daycare.
White recalls a German Shepherd mix who initially struggled with socializing at daycare. “He couldn’t interact with many of our regular daycare dogs,” she says. Staff members worked with him on reactivity issues, and when more challenges arose, they partnered with Wag it Better for additional training. “Through collaboration with the owner and structured training, he successfully integrated into daycare. His progress was incredible,” she shares.
Moore tells the story of Ivan, a dog whose extreme anxiety at the vet made medical care impossible. “He was so fearful that they couldn’t even sedate him,” she recalls. By taking him to the vet for short, positive visits multiple times a week, they gradually built his confidence. “By the ninth visit, the vet completed a full exam without stress,” she says. Ivan’s transformation made a significant difference in his quality of life.
Training isn’t just about teaching dogs—it’s about teaching owners how to maintain progress. Both Moore and White emphasize that consistent reinforcement is key.
“Dog training relies on positive reinforcement, like treats, praise, or play,” Moore explains. Owners must understand how and when to reinforce good behavior to prevent setbacks.
White stresses that ongoing education is essential for maintaining structure at home. “By educating pet parents, they can continue training their dogs and reinforcing positive behaviors
beyond formal sessions,” she says. Training is not a one-time event; it requires consistency and commitment.
Many behavioral problems develop due to a lack of early training. White notes that prevention is always more effective—and less expensive—than correction. “Early training socializes your pup and lays a foundation for positive behavior,” she explains.
Investing in professional training from the beginning saves owners from dealing with costly behavioral issues in the future. It ensures dogs develop into well-mannered, happy companions.
For pet owners unsure about professional training, both Moore and White encourage them to research trainers and find one whose methods align with their values.
“I recommend asking questions about training methods to ensure they’re the right fit for your dog,” Moore advises. She stresses the importance of positive reinforcement techniques, which build trust and confidence.
White shares her personal experience: “A well-trained dog is a happy dog. I love taking my dog places with me, and she loves going. Early training played a huge role in her being comfortable in different situations.”
Investing in training is investing in a lifetime of positive experiences with your pet. Whether through structured daycare, oneon-one training, or continued reinforcement at home, taking the time to train and socialize your dog leads to a stronger bond, fewer behavioral issues, and a happier life for both pet and owner.
ARTICLE BY MATTIE JENNINGS
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED Innovative Solutions Tailored for Ultimate Protection
Since its founding, Preventia Security has been dedicated to delivering superior customer experiences with integrity and expertise. Combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to service, the company has grown into one of the fastest-growing security providers in the South.
Preventia Security was built on the belief that customers deserve better protection and service. The company’s founder, with a background in home services, recognized the need for a security provider that operates with integrity and prioritizes customer relationships. When people trust a company to protect their home or business, they need to be confident that support will always be available.
Since its inception, Preventia’s mission has remained unchanged: delivering exceptional service while evolving to meet the latest industry advancements. The company was among the first to integrate smart home solutions and residential cameras, staying ahead of security trends. It also emphasizes internal growth, creating an environment where employees can develop long-term careers. By empowering its team, Preventia ensures customers receive the highest level of service.
A key factor in Preventia’s rapid expansion has been the adoption of the “Scaling Up” business philosophy. Since shifting to this model, the company has experienced an impressive 25% year-over-year growth. A strong company culture and a relentless commitment to customer satisfaction continue to drive this success.
Preventia offers a full suite of security solutions, including camera systems, access control, fire alarms, and cloudbased security platforms. These technologies seamlessly integrate with smart home features like thermostats, garage doors, and lighting controls, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Our team is empowered to do what’s best for the customer. We provide solutions others can’t, and are committed to ensuring customers benefit from the latest innovations.
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all security systems, Preventia takes a consultative approach, customizing solutions based on each customer’s needs. “Our goal is to make the technology work for you in a way that you truly love your system,” the company emphasizes.
Preventia also leverages AI-driven security innovations to enhance protection. Cloud-based updates ensure customers always have the latest features without requiring hardware replacements. By incorporating artificial intelligence, Preventia’s systems are becoming more proactive, providing real-time alerts and smarter security insights.
Preventia’s commitment to service is more than just words— it’s demonstrated daily. One example highlights the company’s customer-first mindset. A technician, delayed by an earlier service call, was scheduled to install a system for a customer leaving town the next day. Understanding the urgency, Preventia’s
service manager gathered additional resources, ensuring the installation was completed late that evening.
As a locally owned and operated company, Preventia is deeply involved in the communities it serves. The company sponsors school events, nonprofit initiatives, and community engagement programs, and several team members serve on nonprofit boards or volunteer their time.
Looking ahead, Preventia aims to expand its footprint across the Southeast. The company has already identified Murfreesboro as a key growth market and is investing in resources to strengthen its presence in Middle Tennessee.
The future of security is evolving, and AI-driven, cloudbased video surveillance is at the forefront of that transformation. Preventia is committed to remaining at the cutting edge, ensuring customers benefit from the latest innovations.
Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense against the elements, making regular maintenance essential for longterm durability and curb appeal. From inspecting your siding and roof to preparing for extreme weather, here’s a comprehensive guide from Mr. Handyman on how to keep your home in top shape year-round.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU INSPECT YOUR SIDING, GUTTERS, AND ROOF FOR DAMAGE?
To prevent costly repairs, it’s best to inspect your siding, gutters, and roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Additionally, after severe weather events such as heavy rain, snow, or windstorms, perform a quick check for any visible damage. Look for:
• Siding: Cracks, warping, or signs of moisture damage.
• Gutters: Clogs, sagging sections, or leaks.
• Roof: Missing or damaged shingles, moss growth, or sagging areas.
Early detection of these issues can save you from expensive repairs down the line.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO PREVENT CLOGGED GUTTERS AND WATER DAMAGE?
Gutters play a vital role in directing rainwater away from your home. To keep them clear and functioning properly:
• Clean your gutters at least twice yearly (spring and fall) or more frequently if you have overhanging trees.
• Install gutter guards to reduce debris buildup.
• Ensure proper downspout positioning so water is directed at least 5 feet away from your foundation.
• Check for leaks and reseal seams with a waterproof gutter sealant.
A well-maintained gutter system helps prevent costly foundation and siding damage caused by water overflow.
ARTICLE BY MURFREESBORO CITY LIFESTYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHAT TOOLS AND MATERIALS ARE BEST FOR RESEALING CRACKS IN A DRIVEWAY OR PATIO?
Cracks in your driveway or patio can worsen over time, leading to uneven surfaces and water damage. To reseal them effectively, you’ll need:
• A wire brush and pressure washer to remove dirt and debris.
• Crack filler or concrete caulk for small cracks (less than ½ inch wide).
• Asphalt patch or concrete resurfacer for larger cracks and holes.
• A sealant applicator or roller for smooth application.
Apply the sealant on a dry, mild day to ensure it cures properly. Regular sealing can extend the life of your driveway and prevent costly repairs.
HOW CAN YOU PREPARE YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR FOR EXTREME WEATHER?
Whether you’re facing heavy rain, snow, or extreme heat, proper preparation can protect your home from severe weather damage:
• For heavy rain: Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear, reinforce basement waterproofing, and check for proper drainage around your home.
• For snow and ice: Trim overhanging branches that could break under snow weight, apply weather stripping to windows and doors, and inspect your roof for weak spots.
• For extreme heat: Paint or stain your siding with UV-resistant coatings, check for proper attic ventilation, and install heat-reflective roofing materials to prevent excessive heat absorption.
Maintaining your home’s exterior is crucial for longevity and safety, but some tasks require professional expertise. Whether you need gutter cleaning, siding repairs, driveway sealing, or storm preparation, Mr. Handyman is here to help. Call today to schedule your exterior maintenance service and keep your home in top condition all year long!
“From inspecting your siding and roof to preparing for extreme weather, here’s a comprehensive guide from Mr. Handyman on how to keep your home in top shape year-round.”
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
APRIL 12TH
Butterfly Festival
Hop Springs - 6790 John Bragg Hwy Murfreesboro, TN 37127 | 2:00 PM
Head to Hop Springs for the Butterfly Festival! This event is going to be epic, we can't wait! What to expect: live butterfly interaction, live music, mouth watering food trucks, hot air balloon rides (4:30 pm -6:30 pm), firework show (8 pm) & more!
APRIL 12TH
World Outreach Church - Spring Festival
1921 New Salem Highway Murfreesboro, TN 37128 | 6:00 PM
It’s going to be an amazing spring at World Outreach Church, and you’re invited to be a part of it all. Indoor & outdoor stages + seating, food trucks, plus special Easter activities for children. With a lot of exciting artists coming, the goal isn’t just to provide Christian entertainment, it’s to make a space where people can come together.
APRIL 13TH
Classic Car Cruise In
906 Ridgely Rd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 | 1:00 PM
Shine ‘er up and drive ‘er in to Cedar Glade Brews! Second Sunday of the month classic car cruise-in! Car-ticipants get a free CGB pint, all makes, models and years are welcome. Award will be given to the winner!
APRIL 24TH
Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra Spring Spectacular
1307 N Rutherford Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37130 | 7:00 PM
Dr. Brian Russell will conduct April’s season finale, A Spring Spectacular. Ethos Children’s Choirs will perform with the orchestra in the concert. This concert is set for April 24 at 7 p.m. at Belle Aire Baptist. For tickets and more information, visit tnphil.org
APRIL 25TH
45th Anniversary Celebration & 14th Annual Paws &
Copper Ridge Event Venue - 3597 Betty Ford Rd, Murfreesboro Tn 37130 | 6:00 PM
Beesley Animal Foundation is proud to celebrate its 45th Anniversary in 2025! They commemorate this milestone alongside the 14th annual Paws & Pearls on Friday April 25. Join us for a night filled with celebration and plenty of fun! Special entertainment will take us back to their Founding in 1980! Let’s celebrate! Ticket information can be found at https://www.beesleyanimalclinic.com/events
APRIL 26TH
Hop Springs - 6790 John Bragg Highway, Murfreesboro | 10:00 AM
Spring in Tennessee means it's time for smoky aromas, sizzling grills, and the sounds of live music filling the air as the Boro BBQ Festival returns to celebrate its 13th year of bringing the community together through great food and music. The event is free and open to the public. Festivities and food begin at 10 am.