September 10, 2026
Happy Thursday, Mt. Juliet! ❤
It’s hard to believe it has been 25 years since September 11, 2001. As we approach this important anniversary, I think it’s a good reminder that some moments in history should never be forgotten. This week, we’re taking a look at how communities across Wilson County are remembering and honoring September 11 and the people whose lives were forever changed.
But there’s plenty more in this week’s newsletter, too! We’re talking Titans football as the season kicks off, the incredible monarch butterfly migration happening right here in Tennessee, some fun NFL-inspired recipes, the story behind the semicolon on the back of MJPD patrol cars, and, of course, plenty of things happening around Mt. Juliet and beyond.
So grab your coffee and take a few minutes to see what’s happening around town. Let’s get into it! ☕️
Denise & Mike
THIS WEEK IN MT. JULIET
Your Quick Look at What’s Inside
❤ In Remembrance of 9/11
🚓 A Semicolon and a Police Car
🦋 Monarch Migration
💙 Titans Kick-Off Reminders
🥘 NFL Team Recipes
🐶 Chip Scanning Stations
🐶 Pet of the Week
💰 Insider Deals: Exclusive Coupon
📆 Things to Do in Mt Juliet This Week
☀ Weekly weather forecast
Let Us Never Forget… ❤🤍💙
Most people old enough to remember September 11, 2001, can probably still tell you exactly where they were when they learned America was under attack. To each of us, that memory is personal, deeply meaningful, and permanently etched in our minds.
I don't want to focus too much on my own experience, but as this 25th anniversary approaches, I find myself reflecting on that morning. I was working in what was then the BellSouth building in downtown Nashville. On my drive in, radio DJs were talking about a plane hitting the World Trade Center, assuming it was a small private aircraft and a terrible accident. It wasn't until our supervisor walked into the office and shared the news that the true weight of what was happening began to sink in.
We were given the option to go home, but I chose to stay at my desk, hoping the routine would keep my mind off the unfolding tragedy. At the same time, I remember looking out the window from the tall tower we were in and quietly wondering if we might be next.
In those early hours, I didn't realize just how profoundly our world was about to change. But in the painful days and weeks that followed, I remember something else too: a nation brought together by an overwhelming sense of unity, compassion, and shared purpose.
We promised then that we would never forget and I pray we never do.
Twenty-five years later, there are several opportunities across Wilson County and Nashville to pause, reflect, and honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost that day, along with the countless first responders and service members whose lives were forever changed.
Following is list of memorial services taking place nearby.
Mt. Juliet
Mt. Juliet Chamber & Friends Memorial Gathering: 8:30–9:30 AM at the Clock Tower (corner of Mt. Juliet Road and Division Street). A morning of reflection and gratitude honoring our heroes on this 25th anniversary.
Lebanon
City of Lebanon 25th Anniversary Ceremony: 9:00 AM outside Lebanon City Hall (200 N. Castle Heights Ave.). Hosted by Mayor Rick Bell, with a presentation of colors by the Lebanon Police and Fire Departments, a ceremonial wreath laying, prayer, and a moment of silence.
Watertown (Wilson County)
Community Remembrance Observation: 12:00 PM at the Watertown Ag Pavilion. A traditional midday gathering for local residents to pause and remember.
Downtown Nashville
Nashville Fire Department & Metro Remembrance: An 8:00 AM procession beginning at 6th Avenue South and Broadway will lead to an 8:30 AM ceremony at the Fallen Firefighter's Memorial outside the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
Whether you attend one of these gatherings or simply take a quiet moment on your front porch, September 11 remains a time to hold our loved ones a little closer, support those who serve our communities, and honor the promise we made to never forget.
What is your story? Where were you on that morning 25 years ago?
Since you took the time to hear my story, I'd love to hear yours. Simply reply to this email and tell me where you were and what you remember. I promise—I will read every story.❤
Drink Your Skincare This Fall
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A Semicolon, a Police Car and a Powerful Reminder 💙
You may notice something a little different on law enforcement and emergency vehicles around Wilson County this month—a semicolon symbol displayed on the back.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and law enforcement and emergency services across Wilson County are displaying the semicolon as a way to raise awareness and remind people of an important message:
Your story isn't over. Keep going.
In writing, a semicolon is used when an author could have ended a sentence but chooses to continue instead. The semicolon has become a symbol of hope for those struggling with mental health, depression, or thoughts of suicide—the idea being that the sentence could have ended, but it didn't.
And neither does your story.
It's a simple symbol, but hopefully one that starts conversations and reminds people that they are not alone. Sometimes simply listening without judgment, checking on someone, or letting them know you're there can make more of a difference than we realize.
This effort also carries special meaning here in Wilson County, honoring two officers who will never be forgotten: Officer Brittany Frazier (EOW September 9, 2017) and Officer Kevin Hensley (EOW August 11, 2002). Their service, sacrifice, and memory remain close to the hearts of this community.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a crisis, help is available 24/7 through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. You can also reach out if you're worried about someone you love.
It's a reminder that there is hope. That help is available. And that your story is worth continuing. ❤️
🦋 The Great Monarch Migration Is Coming to Mt. Juliet
Keep an eye out for orange and black wings over the next few weeks! Starting in mid-September and continuing through October, millions of monarch butterflies will make their way through Middle Tennessee as they head nearly 3,000 miles south to Mexico.
But here's the really amazing part: the monarchs making this journey are a special generation sometimes called the “Methuselah generation.” While a typical monarch may live just a few weeks, these super monarchs can live for months—long enough to make the incredible journey south, spend the winter in Mexico, and begin the trip north again.
A Pit Stop in Mt. Juliet
Mt. Juliet sits right along the monarch migration route, making our yards, parks, and gardens an important place for these travelers to refuel.
And fortunately, we have a special spot right here in town designed to help.
The Charlie Daniels Monarch Waystation
Located in Charlie Daniels Park, the Charlie Daniels Monarch Waystation is maintained by the Wilson County Master Gardeners. Think of it as a rest stop for butterflies! The garden is filled with milkweed and nectar-rich plants that give monarchs a much-needed place to eat and rest.
Want to Help?
You don't need a giant garden to make a difference:
🦋 Plant milkweed — the only plant monarch caterpillars eat.
🌸 Add nectar-rich flowers — a much-needed energy boost for migrating butterflies.
🚫 Skip the pesticides when possible — helping create a safer space for monarchs and other pollinators.
🌿 Visit the waystation — take a stroll through Charlie Daniels Park and see if you can spot a few travelers stopping by!
So if you see an orange and black butterfly fluttering through your yard this fall, remember: it may be one of nature's most remarkable travelers, stopping in Mt. Juliet on its way to Mexico. 🧡🦋
Titan Up! The Home Opener Is Almost Here 💙🏈
The Titans are back in Nashville! The home opener is just around the corner, and if you’re heading to the game, we’ve got a few reminders you’ll want to know before kickoff. The Titans take on the New York Jets on Sunday, September 13 at noon—and there are still tickets available.
🎟️ Tickets Are Still Available
If you've been thinking about heading to the home opener, tickets are still on sale, including the special $28 tickets for CJ2K.
These tickets are being offered in honor of former Titans running back Chris Johnson (CJ2K) and his iconic No. 28, with $5 from each ticket supporting Vanderbilt's ALS research.
So you can catch an NFL game for just $28 while supporting an important cause in honor of one of the most electrifying players to ever wear a Titans uniform.
🚆 Take the Titans Train from Mt. Juliet
Want to skip the traffic and parking hassle? The Titans Express is back for the 2026 season, giving local fans an easy way to get to and from every Titans home game.
The train picks up right here in Mt. Juliet at the Music City Star station, with stops to the east in Martha, Hamilton Springs and Lebanon and to the west in Hermitage and Donelson before arriving downtown at Riverfront Station.
Round-trip tickets are $15 plus a $2 processing fee, and parking is free at the outlying stations. The return train leaves Riverfront Station about an hour after the game ends, so you can enjoy the game without worrying about navigating Nashville traffic afterward.
🏟️ Don't Miss the Music City Miracle Towel
This is also the Titans' farewell season at Nissan Stadium, making every home game a little more special. They're kicking things off with a nod to one of the most unforgettable moments in franchise history.
The first 45,000 fans through the gates will receive a commemorative towel celebrating the Music City Miracle.
Want one? Get there early!
🏈 Game Day Details
When: Sunday, September 13 at 12 pm
Where: Nissan Stadium
Parking Lots Open: 8 am
Stadium Gates Open: 10 am
Whether you're a lifelong Titans fan or just looking for a fun Nashville experience, this is a pretty great weekend to Titan Up!
Grab your Titans gear, bring your friends, and let's go! 💙🏈
🏈 What’s a Titans Game Without a Little Game-Day Food?
Football season is back, and we all know the truth: game day is about more than just the football. It’s about the snacks. 😋
So, if you’re settling in to watch the Titans, why not put a little Tennessee flavor on the table? Taste of Home has put together an appetizer inspired by every NFL team—and, of course, we went straight for the Titans. 💙⚔️
It’s the perfect excuse to try something new while you cheer on the Two-Tone Blue. And if you happen to be a fan of another team…well, we’ll try not to hold that against you. 😂
Because whether your team wins or loses, at least the food can still come through with the W. 🏈🍴
This Week’s Poll…
🏈It's Saturday or Sunday during football season. Where can we find you?
Last Week’s Poll Results…
🍂 What Are You Most Looking Forward to This Fall?
🧥 Cool Nights and Sweater Weather - 35.19%
🍂 Everything! Fall is my jam! - 31.48%
🍁 Changing Leaves - 12.96%
🎃 Pumpkin Spice Everything - 11.11%
🍎 Fall Food & Drinks - 9.26%
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⭐ Around Town: Updates
🎸 Rock N’ Roll Sushi Is Opening September 23!
Get your chopsticks ready, Mt. Juliet! 🍣 Rock N’ Roll Sushi is officially opening its doors on Wednesday, September 23, at dinner time! The new restaurant is located at 1913 N. Mt. Juliet Road in Everette Downs (near Sprouts) and will bring its fun rock-and-roll theme, sushi rolls, ramen, hibachi and more to town. The Mt. Juliet location has been in the works for a while, so it’s exciting to finally have an opening date!
🐾 Mt. Juliet Is Making It Easier to Help Lost Pets Find Their Way Home
Finding a lost dog or cat can leave you wondering what to do next. Thankfully, Mt. Juliet has made it a little easier to help reunite lost pets with their families.
Five Microchip Scanning Stations Around Town
There are currently five microchip scanning stations available throughout Mt. Juliet:
FDMJ Station 1: 104 Belinda Pkwy, Mt. Juliet
FDMJ Station 2: 215 N. Greenhill Rd., Mt. Juliet
FDMJ Station 3: 4370 Old Lebanon Dirt Rd., Mt. Juliet
Charlie Daniels Park: 1099 Charlie Daniels Pkwy., Mt. Juliet
Mt. Juliet Bark Park: 151 SE Springdale Dr., Mt. Juliet
If you find a lost pet, you can take them to one of these locations and scan for a microchip. If a chip is detected, the microchip number can help identify the pet's registry and get the reunion process started.
A Good Thing to Know Before You Need It
Hopefully, you'll never need one—but it's nice to know these stations are there. Save the locations, share them with a fellow pet lover, and keep them in mind just in case you ever come across a lost furry friend.
For questions about microchipping or the scanning stations, contact Mt. Juliet Animal Care & Control at 615-773-5533.
Because helping a lost pet find its way home is something we can all get behind. ❤️🐾
🐾 Pet of the Week:
This Week: Meet Johnny Due Process, Style Subpoena and Judge McCool!
These three handsome kitties, each 6 months old, have been waiting patiently for someone to give them a forever home—and they’d love to meet you!
Johnny Due Process, Style Subpoena, and Judge McCool are three sweet cats currently available for adoption through the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter.
Each has his own personality, but they all have one thing in common: they’re ready to leave shelter life behind and become someone’s furry companion. ❤️
These kitties are among the shelter's longest residents, and they deserve a chance to know what it feels like to have a family of their own.
Could one of them be your new best friend? 🐱❤️
If you're looking to add a little more love (and a lot more purring!) to your home, stop by the Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter (115 Industrial Dr) or call 615-773-5533 to set up an appointment.
💸 Insider Deals
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And this week, they're our Insider Deal of the Week! 👀
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This Week’s Line Up
$= There is a charge for these events
Friday, September 11
❤ 9/11 Memorial Event | Mt. Juliet Clock Tower (N. Mt. Juliet Rd & Division St.) | 8:30 - 9:30 am
On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the community will come together to pause, reflect, and honor the lives lost and the heroes who gave everything.
🍺 Cider Fridays Happy Hour | Breeden’s Orchard | 4:30 - 9:00 pm
Come hang out at the orchard, sip your favorite Breeden’s cider or beer, and make the most of your weekend on the farm. 🍎🍺
🐻 Mt Juliet Golden Bears vs. Lebanon Blue Devils | MJHS Football Stadium | 7 pm
Come Cheer on the Bears as they take on the Blue Devils in this classic rivalry.
🎞 Movies in the Park: Little Giants | Charlie Daniels Park | 7:15 - 9:15 pm
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and bug spray, and enjoy a fun-filled summer evening under the stars!
🏈 Green Hill Hawks vs. Centennial Cougars | Green Hill HS Football Stadium | 7:30 pm
Come Cheer on the Hawks as they take on the Cougars in this exciting match-up.
🪩 Lights Out Social- DJ Dance Party | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 9 pm - 1 am
This weekend, Lights Out Social brings club vibes, flowing drinks, and an elevated DJ to the Speakeasy Social Lounge for a special darkroom experience.
Just around the corner:
🕯 9/11 25th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony | Lebanon City Hall, Lebanon, TN | 9 - 10:30 am
🚘 Triple Crown of Rodding Event | Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, TN | 8 am - 5 pm | $
💟 9/11 Observance Ceremony | Watertown Ag Pavillion, Watertown, TN | 12 pm
🌆 9/11 25th Anniversary Remembrance Event | Bad Ash Stogies Cigar Lounge, Lebanon, TN | 5 - 8 pm
🌼 The Magnolia Market | Treemont Mansion, Old Hickory, TN | 4 - 8 pm | $
Saturday, September 12
🥞 MJ FFA Pancake Breakfast | MJHS Mrs. Piggs Room | 8 am - 12 pm | $
Support the Mt. Juliet FFA and help send members to the national convention while enjoying a delicious pancake breakfast!
🛋 Mt. Juliet Fall Community Yard Sale | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 12 pm
Clear out your closets or hunt for local treasures at the Mt. Juliet Parks & Rec Fall Community Yard Sale! Whether you're looking to declutter before the holidays or snag a great bargain, join your neighbors for a fun morning of community shopping.
🍅 Farmer’s Market | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 1 pm
This event brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to create a lively, welcoming community market. It’s a fun way to shop while supporting local small businesses
🧸 Saturday Story Time | Breeden’s Orchard | 10 - 11 am
Families are invited to gather for interactive stories, fresh air, and playful moments surrounded by orchard views. After story time, kids can explore the farm while parents relax with coffee or treats from the market.
☕ Coffee Chat Social | Billy Goat Coffee Cafe | 10:30 am - 12 pm
New in town or looking to make some new friends? Join this friendly group for some coffee and conversation.
🐶 “Fall into Love” Mt Juliet Animal Shelter Adoption Event | Pet Supplies Plus | 12 - 2 pm
Looking for a furry forever friend? Come meet some adorable adoptable pups and kitties and maybe leave with a new best friend!
💖 Celebrating Dolly: Donation Craft Night | Hammer & Stain | 6 pm
Enjoy a playlist of her most beloved hits as you craft a crushed glass suncatcher inspired by Dolly’s kindness, creativity, and radiant outlook on life. 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the Imagination Library.
🐷 Movie Night: Babe | Breeden’s Orchard | 7 - 9 pm
Families and friends are invited to spread out on the lawn, enjoy snacks and treats from the market, and settle in as the sun sets and the movie begins. It’s an easygoing way to spend time together, unwind, and experience the farm after hours.
🪩 Lights Out Social- DJ Dance Party | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 9 pm - 1 am
This weekend, Lights Out Social brings club vibes, flowing drinks, and an elevated DJ to the Speakeasy Social Lounge for a special darkroom experience.
Just around the corner:
👟 Sherry’s Run | 623 West Main St., Lebanon, TN | 8 am | $
🚘 Triple Crown of Rodding Event | Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, TN | 8 am - 5 pm | $
🪴 Community Yard Sale, Flea Market & Plant Bingo | Wilson County Vendor Market, Lebanon, TN | 10 am - 4 pm
🌼 The Magnolia Market | Treemont Mansion, Old Hickory, TN | 10 am - 4 pm | $
🃏 Card Club | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm
🌙 Astronomy Night Under the Stars | Cedars of Lebanon, Lebanon, TN | 7 - 10 pm
Sunday, September 13
📖 Mt. Juliet Silent Book Club | Ready Teddy’s | 2 - 4 pm
Bring whatever you’re currently reading, order your favorite drink, and enjoy a cozy afternoon. Chat with fellow book lovers and spend some time reading. No assigned books, no discussion questions, no pressure.
Just around the corner:
👟 Lost Loon Family-Friendly Triathlon | Long Hunter State Park, Hermitage, TN | 9:30 am | $
🪲 DIY Bug Motels | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 2 - 3 pm
Monday, September 14
🀄 Mahjong Night | Braingineers Lab | 6 - 8:30 pm | $
Mahjong night is a great excuse to get out, have some fun, and enjoy a little friendly competition! Bring your game face, grab your friends, and join in for a fun night around the table.
Tuesday, September 15
💻 Computer Class for Adults | Mt. Juliet Library | 11 am - 12 pm
Learn the basics of Microsoft Word in this adult computer class. Space is limited, so call or email the library to sign up—laptops will be provided, or you're welcome to bring your own!
🧒 Krafty Kids (K-3) | Mt. Juliet Library | 2:30 - 4:30 pm
Stop by anytime to create a fun, age-appropriate craft designed for children in Kindergarten through 3rd grade! This free program is open to the public, and all supplies are provided.
🛍 Mt. Juliet Market Night | Charlie Daniels Park | 5:30 - 8 pm
Join the Mt. Juliet Parks & Rec Dept. for a fun night of food trucks, live music and a foam party, while supporting local vendors.
Just around the corner:
🎮 Teen Hangout | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
📖 Hermitage Book Club | Hermitage Public Library, Hermitage, TN | 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Wednesday, September 16
🚲 Cyclists in Cadence Getting Coffee | Hamilton-Denson State Park | 8 - 11 am
Join the Veloteers as they ride from Hamilton-Denson Park to Breeden’s Orchard for coffee and conversion using Mt. Juliet's greenways, backroads, and bicycle infrastructure.
🀄 Mahjongg Afternoon | Billy Goat Coffee Cafe | 1 - 4 pm
Enjoy a friendly game of Mahjongg, meet new friends, and have fun each week. Whether you're a seasoned player or still learning, everyone is welcome!
🪴 Ink & Ivy: A Tattoo Pop-Up Event | Needham’s Nursery | 6 pm
Looking for a more permanent way to remember your trips to Needham’s than just the shrubs in your yard and the flowers in your pots? Add this one to your calendar!
🎭 You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown | MJHS Theatre | 7 pm | $
“It’s my blanket and me!” Join the Mt Juliet High School Golden Bear Theatre as they - present You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown!
Just around the corner:
✏ Writer Support Group | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 5:30 - 7:30 pm
🧘♀ Gentle Yoga | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm
Thursday, September 17
🏈 Tailgates & Touchdowns Cookie Decorating Class | Hammer & Stain | 6 pm | $
Join Sugar Rush Cookie Co. for this beginner-friendly cookie decorating class inspired by everyone's football favorites. They’ll decorate five adorable American Football-themed sugar cookies!
🎭 You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown | MJHS Theatre | 7 pm | $
“It’s my blanket and me!” Join the Mt Juliet High School Golden Bear Theatre as they - present You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown!
✍ Writer’s Round | Breeden’s Orchard | 7 - 9 pm
Get ready for an intimate evening of live original music — straight from the songwriters who wrote it. Pull up a chair, settle in by the fire, and hear the stories behind the songs.
😂 Comedy Night | MJ Sport & Social Co. | 7:30 - 9 pm | $
Come on out for a 21+ night of laughs with Stuart Laws right here in Mount Juliet. All the laughs, none of the hassle of going downtown!
Just around the corner:
🍩 Classic Movies & Donuts | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
🧪 Library Lab: A STEAM Program | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm
👻 Ghost Tours: Tragedy & Mystery at the Hermitage | The Hermitage, Hermitage, TN | 6:30 & 8:30 pm | $
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Meet the Team
Denise is a SoCal native who has called Middle Tennessee home for 25 years. A self-proclaimed foodie, she’s always on the hunt for the area's latest and greatest restaurants—though during football season, you’ll likely find her locked into a game.
Mike originally hails from New Jersey and has lived in Mt. Juliet for over 30 years. When he isn’t cheering on his favorite college and pro football teams, he loves getting out to catch some live local rock music.
Together, we started What’s Up Mt. Juliet because we believe there is so much to love about this great city. Each week, our goal is to bring you the best of Mt Juliet…and hopefully brighten your day along the way!
Thanks for letting us be a small part of your week!
Publication Disclaimer:
While we work hard to keep all information accurate and up to date, event details can change unexpectedly. We highly recommend double-checking the event links directly before heading out to ensure you have the latest updates. This newsletter contains affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. We deeply appreciate your support, which helps keep our content running.