Rutherford County

Judge Rules Tennessee Mosque Opponents Can Contest Case

Associated Press — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 20:37:36 +0000

A federal judge in Nashville will allow opponents of a Murfreesboro mosque to have a say in the religious freedom case involving the building. Judge Kevin Sharp on Wednesday ruled that the group of neighbors has a legitimate interest in the case.

Tennessee Mosque Receives Occupancy Permit

Associated Press — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 12:48:44 +0000

The Islamic Center of Murfreesboro has received its final approval after a nearly two-year legal battle to prevent it from opening. Islamic Center board chairman Essam Fathy said he was relieved and happy the mosque has its permanent occupancy permit.

After Long Legal Battle, A Tennesse Mosque is Open for Worship

Associated Press — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 15:10:37 +0000

It's finally opening day for a Tennessee mosque after opponents waged a two-year court battle trying to stop it. Leaders of the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro say they intend to hold midday prayers in the new building Friday.

Date Set for Opening of New Tennessee Islamic Center

Associated Press — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 21:17:40 +0000

A new mosque in Tennessee that had been the subject of a lawsuit, arson, vandalism and a bomb threat will open for prayers for the first time on Friday. Islamic Center of Murfreesboro board member Saleh Sbenaty said Tuesday that Rutherford County officials issued a temporary occupancy permit that will allow use of the building while the final permit is pending.

Tennessee Mosque Undergoing Final Inspections, Could Open by End of Ramadan

Associated Press — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 15:45:37 +0000

****Updated 2:04pm****Islamic Center of Murfreesboro Board Chairman Essam Fathy on Tuesday said inspectors had approved the building and it's expected to open for prayers on Friday.

Original post:

An occupancy permit could be granted Tuesday for a Tennessee mosque that’s been at the center of controversy. A final inspection was scheduled for Tuesday morning at the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro, and congregation leaders say they hope to hold their first prayers in the new facility this week.