Issuu

The Explore Edition:

JulyExplore Issue

We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit - I fall into the trap sometimes too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort and investment it will cost me. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.

But the truth is - that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life.

We must leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.

I was recently with a health care provider that looks at the whole person and I was asked "What do you do to bring yourself enjoyment and renewal?" I was surprised because the answer didn't come easily to me. I have since spent time exploring that question and being intentional about creating moments where I feel joyful and refreshed. One day, my hope is that I will have a more natural rhythm of those moments every day.

In the last few months I've really been analyzing my relationship with my kids, how our family operates as a unit and what we love spending our time doing. The way I made this more clear, was to first focus on the things that I don't love spending time on. For our family - it’s screens. For yours, it may be too many busy weeknights away from home or not enough dinners around the table together. But I've noticed that "adventures" and “exploration” doesn't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, going for a walk in the neighborhood or going on a bike ride. Some of the greatest adventures are right in our own city and backyard.

Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.

AMANDA OAKS, PUBLISHER @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Amanda Oaks | amanda.oaks@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Matilyn Jennings | matilyn.jennings@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Oaks, Matilyn Jennings, Lynn Caldwell, Jordan Reining

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amanda Oaks, Jim Davis, Main Street Murfreesboro, Jordan Reining, Rutherford Works

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

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Discover

Semester

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Rutherford

Rutherford Works

EXPLORING

WETLANDS Murfreesboro’s

DISCOVER NATURE AND HISTORY IN MURFREESBORO’S 25-ACRE CITY PARK.

ARTICLE BY LYNN CALDWELL

JIM DAVIS

The quiet stillness resting in the air, nature simply happening all around you, and the thrill of rare bird sightings – if this piques your interest – you've got to check out Murfree Springs Wetlands, right here in Murfreesboro.

This incredible gem is located just off the corner of Broad Street and Maney Street, next to the Discovery Center. It is a 25-acre city park with paved walking trails and a newly updated raised boardwalk that winds throughout the wetlands.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

There is also a playground, clean restrooms, and several benches to sit and relax.

Depending on your visit's timing, you will catch glimpses of otters, beavers, turtles, ducks, and countless sightings of rare birds that call the Murfree Springs Wetlands their home.

“This is absolutely a favorite place for many people in our community," said Rachel Singer, Assistant Director of Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation. "We had a large section of it closed while doing some much-needed repairs. It took quite some time because we had to be careful not to disturb the delicate ecosystem of the wetlands, and most of the work was done by boat. There were so many happy people when we announced the boardwalk was completely open.”

The educational and historic opportunities are endless, as it was created around the old water treatment plant, and the design encompasses both the original metal features of the plant and the flowing patterns of water. There is a History Wall depicting a timeline of the area from prehistoric to current happenings on the site and even stepping-stones in a pond-like water feature that demonstrate an aquatic food chain.

Plan a visit soon - wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rainforests and coral reefs. This irreplaceable resource in Murfreesboro serves local wildlife and teaches our citizens to love, appreciate, and protect wetlands everywhere. To find ways to get involved or for more information, visit http://www.murfreesboroparks.com.

“This irreplaceable Murfreesboro resource supports wildlife and educates citizens to love, appreciate, and protect wetlands.”

ARTICLE BY JORDAN REINING, MATILYN JENNINGS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN REINING

in Manchester, England MTSU Student’s Semester

SEMESTER ACROSS THE POND LEAVES STUDENT WITH FOREVER MEMORIES WITH BEST FRIENDS

Photo by Jordan Reining

It's been exactly one week since I landed back in Tennessee after spending the last part of my junior year in Manchester, England. I've been going through my camera roll trying to find the perfect set of photos to tell the story of my study abroad program for my end-of-semester Instagram post, obviously.

I quickly realized there are far too many memories to fit into a 10-slide post.

When I first started thinking about going abroad, I scrolled for hours on TikTok, looking at all the experiences I had a chance to partake in. I wanted to experience it all - the late nights out and early mornings at the airport, the all-nighters in the library, and the friendships that formed instantly. I believe I accomplished all of these and more.

More than that, I wanted to experience a new way of life. Home will always be home, don't get me wrong, but I needed a change of pace. Although I was looking forward to living on my own and gaining more independence, getting to see another culture and learn its intricacies is what pulled me into the idea.

My chosen city was Manchester, where I first learned that the phrase "you alright?" does not mean you look sick or bad; it's just another way of saying, "How are you?" I will admit I never got used to it. Four months in, I would still pause with uncertainty about how to respond.

I also got the chance to explore London, where I learned the importance of staying on the right side of the escalator so as not to get run over by those running up on the left.

Photo by Jordan Reining

When I ventured outside of the United Kingdom and made my way around Italy, I was met with kindness wherever I went. I learned that coffee culture is big, and iced coffee is not included in this.

My absolute favorite city, which I had the chance to explore, was Rome. The city's history is inescapable. Cafes and souvenir stands were interspersed between ancient ruins. Bars sat across the road from the Colosseum. When I first walked down the street leading toward it, I was flanked by ruins and statues on both sides. All of it was breathtaking, yet the Colosseum gave me chills as soon as my eyes landed on it.

While scrolling through my gallery, I revisited all the little things. They might not make the cut for the Instagram post - a weird face caught during the middle of a laugh, or the dual toilets in a bathroom decked out in LED lights and a disco ball - but these little things add up.

The small moments spent with the girls I met abroad were the best. We all became close in the short time we had together. Sitting across the table from each other the first night we met after orientation, we shared our nerves and hopes for the semester in the back room of the campus bar. All of us were alone in a different country, and we spent day after day together, bonding as we learned the city's routes.

For five months, I was around the same group of girls, eating at the same places and drinking the same flavor of Red Bull. The change and newness I had initially searched for evolved into familiarity and routine before I realized it. Eventually, it felt like I knew Manchester better than I knew Murfreesboro.

Photo by Jordan Reining

“The change and newness I had searched for at the beginning evolved into familiarity and routine before I realized it.”

I was unsure of my decision to study abroad and scared of what would result.

Now that I have experienced it, I can't believe I was ever so hesitant. I am home once again, and nothing here has changed, but I have.

The homesickness I felt so often near the start faded and was slowly replaced by the desire to stay. My study abroad program resulted in the best memories with some of my closest friends.

In a shared album, we now have moments captured between the 12 of us that tell the story of the past five months better than an Instagram post ever could.

Jordan Reining is a senior majoring in journalism and minoring in history and Spanish.

Photo by Jordan Reining

Photo by Jordan Reining ARTIST’S

Photo by Jordan Reining

“Having experienced it, I can’t believe I was hesitant. I’m home again; nothing has changed, but I have.”

About MTSU Study Abroad Programs

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers a robust Study Abroad Program designed to provide students with enriching international experiences. The program facilitates various opportunities, including short-term, semester-long, and year-long study abroad options. MTSU collaborates with multiple international universities and organizations to offer a wide range of courses across different fields of study, ensuring that credits earned abroad are transferable.

Students can explore diverse cultures, gain global perspectives, and enhance their academic and personal growth through these programs. MTSU also provides comprehensive support services, including pre-departure advising, financial aid guidance, and scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are available through the Office of Education Abroad, covering various study abroad durations and include the Office of Education Abroad Scholarship, the Commitment Scholarship, and the Media Scholarship.

Additionally, MTSU has partnerships with affiliated program providers who offer their scholarships, making study abroad more accessible. The program emphasizes thorough preparation and support, helping students navigate the complexities of international education and ensuring a transformative experience abroad.

MTSU’s Study Abroad Program not only aims to foster academic growth but also to develop students’ intercultural competence and adaptability, preparing them for a globalized workforce. For more detailed information, visit the MTSU Study Abroad website at https://mtsu.studioabroad.com/.

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DESTIN

FAMILY FAVORITES

Newman-Dailey delivers family adventures on and off the beach!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA

OAKS

The Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center is ranked among the Top 50 Tennis Resorts by TennisResortsOnline.com and our 13 year old son received private lessons with Tennis Pro, Rhett Russel. During their time Jameson worked on all aspects of his form and he left excited to play to continue what he learned from Rhett.

Our group of teens ranging from 13-15 years old rented a paddle board and canoe right on our condo’s beach to explore the waters away from the shore. They took a couple spills into the ocean (haha!) and worked hard to master the technique needed to keep the paddle board and canoe steady.

Pickleball is a very popular sport and the boys loved playing at the Hidden Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center. If they weren’t playing basketball on the courts, in the pool or at the beach this is where we would find them. The competition was fierce!

Breaks from the beach happened and so did a little Go Kart Racing at The Track! Located in the heart of Destin, The Track provides action packed family fun with 5 Go-Kart tracks, minigolf, blaster

boats, thrill rides like the SkyFlyer & Hurricane 360. From 5 years old to adult we all had FUN!

We held and fed alligators! We visited Fudpucker’s Gator Beach. Gator Beach is a one-of-a-kind alligator park located at Fudpuckers in the heart of Destin. They have free alligator shows, photos of you holding an alligator, and so much fun to learn about and feed the alligators too. Even 5 year old Lydia held an alligator and loved it!

The views from our beach front condo at Hidden Dunes were incredible and we were able to view beautiful fireworks while resting from a big day at the beach. This made for a spectacular night for everyone in the family. This resort truly was one of the most fun experiences we have had at the beach. There was so much to do, see and enjoy! Newman-Dailey truly took customer service to the next level!

Main Street Murfreesboro’s fundraiser returns to Oakland’s Mansion with 20+ restaurants, craft beers, and entertainment.

Taste of Rutherford: Celebrating Murfreesboro’s Culinary Community

ARTICLE BY MATILYN JENNINGS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAIN STREET MURFREESBORO

Established in 1985, Main Street Murfreesboro is dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and promoting the historic downtown area as the heart of the Murfreesboro community. The non-profit supports locally owned small businesses, preserves the historic business district, and fosters a sense of belonging through public events. These include the Saturday Farmer's Market, Friday Night Live concerts, Celebrate Christmas, and, of course, the Taste of Rutherford.

Since its inception in 1991, the fundraising event once known as The Summer Party has evolved into what is now celebrated as The Taste of Rutherford, Main Street Murfreesboro’s premier annual fundraiser.

Initially held at private homes, the event outgrew these intimate settings, and in 2019, it transformed into a vibrant block party outside the historic Childress House in downtown Murfreesboro.

In 2020, amidst COVID-19 restrictions, the event moved to Cannonsburgh Village, where vendors could offer sample-sized food in to-go containers. After two successful years at Cannonsburgh, "The Taste of Rutherford" found its current home at the historic Oakland's Mansion.

This venue, one of Murfreesboro's most iconic landmarks, offers tours inside the mansion and ample space on the front lawn under a canopy of trees. Guests can enjoy an expanded array of culinary delights from numerous local restaurants in a picturesque setting.

This year’s vendors range in local flare from fine dining to quick bites!

EXPLORE THE DELICIOUS VENDORS

Puckett's: MTSU alumni-owned, serving the Murfreesboro community since February 2017. City Café: Tennessee's oldest restaurant, operating since February 10, 1900.

Jo Jo's Fruit Tea: Specialty Southern fruit tea served exclusively at Slick Pick BBQ.

Marina's on the Square: Fine Italian dining and pizzeria on Murfreesboro’s public square since 1998.

The Hot Dog Guy: Husband-and-wife duo serving quality hot dogs from their cart at events.

Simply Pure Sweets: Bakery inspired by childhood memories, offering a variety of baked goods.

Slick Pig BBQ: Serving hickory-smoked meats and homemade sides since 1995.

Chick-fil-A: Local franchise sharing famous chicken nuggets and supporting Murfreesboro charities.

BB Creations: Catering company offering scratch-made food with local ingredients for any event.

“This venue, one of Murfreesboro’s most iconic landmarks, offers tours inside the mansion and ample space on the front lawn under a canopy of trees. Guests can enjoy an expanded array of culinary delights from numerous local restaurants in a picturesque setting.”

Tasty Table & The Soda Shoppe: Catering fresh, healthy, and budget-friendly meals for all occasions.

Five Senses: Seasonal menus blending global fare with Southern roots in an open-kitchen setting.

Boro Kabob: Family-run Mediterranean and Persian restaurant, a downtown favorite.

VanHorn Cookies: Custom-designed cookies for all of your parties and events.

Jo's Custom Cakes: Fresh, elegant wedding cakes and catering made from the finest ingredients.

Andy's Frozen Custard: Largest frozen custard-only chain, delighting attendees with dessert.

Chuy's: Authentic Tex-Mex cuisine from Austin, TX, VIP restaurant at the event.

The Alley on Main: Family and community-focused restaurant for home cooking in downtown Murfreesboro since 2014.

TN Meat Co.: Specialty shop offering high-quality meats, rubs, seasonings, and kitchen essentials.

Jim-N-Nicks: Authentic pit-master ran barbecue restaurant serving the Murfreesboro community since 1985.

Chutneys Indian Fusion Cuisine: Fresh international cuisine featuring Persian, Middle Eastern, and Indian dishes. Participating breweries from last year’s event include: Craft Beer Vendors, Dirty Bird Brew Co., From the Garage Homebrewing Supplies, Thompson Brood, Illuzion Meads, Mos Alesly, Vitruvian Ales, FatFinger, Mid-state Brewsters, Deep South Growlers, Cedar Glade and Uncle Nearest.*

Tickets get attendees access to tastings from over 20 Murfreesboro restaurants, along with craft beer tastings and live entertainment from 6:30-9:30 pm. Purchase your tickets at www.mainstreetmurfreesboro.ticketspice.com/taste-of-rutherford-2024.

*Breweries for 2024 Taste of Rutherford are still to be confirmed at the time of publishing.

The Hot Dog Guy

YOUR PEACE GET LOST

AND FIND

Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Think Texas home-style ranch meets Southern luxury. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.

Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing,

kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. Whether you’re a new or experienced golfer, the expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.

A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets. Guests can interact with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen, and make s’mores fireside at one of the many fire-pits around the resort. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property without feeling crowded by other guests.

ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE

The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors such as local wagyu beef and fresh garden greens grown at the on-site garden. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique din ing experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menu-free establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining expe rience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, buffet style dining at Heartwood House, or light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place. Eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace with appetizers, small plates and cocktails. Listen to live music on the terrace and take in the night sky or cool off with a refreshing beverage after a day of activities at this charming spot. Located at the center of the resort, indoor and outdoor seating is thoughtfully arranged to invite guests to relax, unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.

After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com

Movies Under the Stars

Mondays at Barfield Crescent Park, Thursdays at Siegel Park, Saturdays at The Fountains | 8:00 PM

Visit the participating locations to experience Movies Under the Stars! There will be a different movie showing each week. Movies will begin at dark (approximately at 8:00pm).

No movie showing on Thursday July 4th. Mondays- Barfield Crescent Park, Thursdays- at Siegel Park, Saturdays- Fountains at Gateway.

JULY 4TH

July 4th Celebration Under the Stars

Fountains at Gateway 1500 Medical Center Parkway Murfreesboro | 4:30 PM

4th of July event at The Fountains with live music, food trucks and fireworks by Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation & Middle Tennessee Electric. Activities beginning at approximately 4:30pm with Fireworks following after sunset.

JULY 5TH

Independence Day Weekend with Nashville Sounds Baseball

First Horizon Park- Home of the Nashville Sounds | 6:35 PM

The Nashville Sounds wore specialty military jerseys for Military Appreciation Night on Thursday, June 6, and will wear them again on Friday, July 5, for the team’s Independence Day Weekend celebration. These game-worn jerseys are being auctioned, with proceeds benefitting the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center. Visit https://www.mtsu.edu/sounds/ to learn more and bid on a jersey!

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CONTINUED

JULY 11TH

Splash Out at Barfield Crescent Park

Barfield Crescent Park | 1:30 PM

Splash Out at Barfield Crescent Park with City of Murfreesboro Fire Rescue and Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation. Join us for lots of fun as the fire trucks spray water from the giant hoses!

JULY 12TH

Music With A Mission

Fountains at Gateway | 7:00 PM

Music With A Mission is a free singer/ songwriter event hosted by Jared Blake Music and Live To Be. This event features new artists, hit songwriters, established artists, reality tv contestants and even the occasional celebrity. Get together, play games, listen to great music and serve our community by joining up with local non-profits to spread awareness and create local funding.

JULY 13TH

Taste Of Rutherford

Oakland's Mansion | 6:00 PM

Taste of Rutherford is Main Street's annual fundraiser, which is held July 13th on the grounds of Oakland's Mansion. Tickets get attendees access to over 20 Murfreesboro restaurants for tastings, craft beer from Mid-State Brew Crew, and music entertainment throughout the night.

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

Expir es 7/31/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.