Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival to feature roots Renaissance man and banjo wizard.
18 roots M us I c re VIVA l A celebration of old-timey string music returns to Hop Springs, Sept. 6–7.
22
B less I ng B oxes
Community members stock dozens of boxes to help those in need of food.
26
M tsu foot BA ll Blue Raiders kick off 2024 welcoming Tennessee Tech, Duke.
33
tr A ns I t center
Work continues on Murfreesboro’s new transit center facility.
6 Events cAlendAr TN State Fair, Vintage Base Ball, Peach Cobbler Festival, Berry Festival, Hummingbird Festival and more!
12 Sounds concerts MusIc notes Friday Night Live Harvest to Hoedown
16 Reviews AlBuM Tennessee Blues Mob MoVIe Longlegs
20 Living
trAVel Spruce Flats Falls
Mr. MurfreesBoro Remembering ’Boro nightclubs from yesteryear
28 Food restAurAnt Brunch and Brew Cafe
30 News
BusIness Buzz Five on Black, Hwy 55, Maru Sushi, MyEyeDr., Carhartt, Prohibition Home Brewing, Amoco, Bart’s Kitchen
and Bakery, Zio JohnB’s NY Pizza, Skate Park and more
34 Opinion
free your chIldren Tennessee education marching into globalism constItutIon study Presidential immunity sports tAlk Big Jeff and T’Von ready to terrorize NFL offenses in 2024
Money MAtters Inherited IRAs
lIVIng . . . well! Dance principles for life
i RECENTLy RECEivEd A CALL from a real estate professional, hoping to secure approximately 3,000 square feet of commercial space in Murfreesboro for a client. I could have said, “Well, ma’am, I publish a community newspaper. I do not own any commercial buildings. Perhaps you saw an article or advertisement within the Pulse announcing available space.”
But no. I am a creative man of opportunity, a problem solver, a solutions expert.
“I got you!” I say. “I can offer 3,000 square feet of prime real estate for as little as $325 per month.”
What a great price. That’s intriguing.
You see, a half-page color ad spot in the Pulse, at 10 inches wide by 5.375 inches tall, goes for only $325 per month with a 12-month agreement.
We will print that for you 8,000 times a month! By my calculations, that’s 2,986 square feet of paper that an advertiser gets for only $325 per month.
Advertising in the Pulse can indeed be a phenomenal use of marketing dollars for a local business.
Not only will the Pulse design a lovely ad for you, print it thousands of times, distribute it to hundreds of locations all over the county, and encourage people to view it by placing it alongside interesting and useful community information, you are supporting the mission of the Pulse to inform the public about local events, people, activities, food, businesses, news and culture.
Do not worry; count your blessings. Sometimes it can be easy to focus on the missed opportunities, items you don’t have, things you can’t afford to do.
I encourage you, and myself, to dwell on what we do have. Give thanks; appreciate where you are.
We can have all of these impressions and ideas of the lifestyles of the rich and famous, and envy or discontent can creep in, but likely most anyone reading this—if you have a family, a place to rest your head, shoes and a little food each day—has a better life situation than majority of the people in the world.
Now, this is 10-year-old information, but if you start to feel poor, according to 2013 data from Gallup, the median household income worldwide was $9,733. Currently, a net worth of $138,346 will get you into the wealthiest 10% in the world.
Things could always be better; they could always be worse.
If you don’t enjoy what you are doing, either start doing something else or start enjoying it! If the activity does not accomplish your goals or bring joy—stop! If it does serve a purpose in bringing you closer to your goals—enjoy it and be grateful you have opportunity and ability.
Peace!
BrAcken MAyo
Publisher/Editor in Chief
glade C ity rounders
Aug. 2 & 3
pop-up shops At lIBerty’s stAtIon Liberty’s Station (850 NW Broad St.) hosts pop-up shops on the first Friday and Saturday of each month (Aug. 2 and 3 this month) from 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. These events feature unique items making your shopping experience all the more special. Browse goods knowing that purchases are going toward a meaningful cause. Saturday, Aug. 3, will be a special kids’ pop-up shop. For more information, visit libertysstationtn.org
Aug. 2
sunset pAddle BoArdIng
Experience the warm colors of a sunset as they dance across the open water on Friday, Aug. 2, from 6–8 p.m. If you haven’t tried paddle boarding, this program is great for beginners. Registration is required. Location will be given via email the day before. The program is rated easy for beginners. The cost to participate is $15 per person; ages 10 and up are welcome. For more information, email ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-642-1103.
Aug. 2
wAyfIndIng Art
Take part in decorating the Murfreesboro Greenways with the Murfreesboro Cultural Arts Department, adding your own chalk masterpiece on Friday, Aug. 2, from 1–3 p.m. at Richard Siegel Neighborhood Park (515 Cherry Ln.). There is no cost to participate. For more information, email smayo@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439 ext. 6111.
Aug. 3
end of suMMer BAsh
Finish your summer off the right way while hiking down to Barfield Crescent Park’s campground and experiencing a “summer campday,” enjoying all the Wilderness Station has to offer on Saturday, Aug. 3, from 5–8 p.m. (401 Volunteer Rd.). Compete in archery tag and gaga ball, learn how to create your own shelter and try your hand at slacklining. Enjoy up-close interactions with the Wilderness Station’s animal ambassadors. The winners of the
summer-long youth photography contest will be announced and awarded. Enjoy hot dogs, refreshments and s’mores. The cost to attend is $3 per person or $10 per family. For more information, email amandarodriguez@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.
Aug. 3 And 17
cruIsIn’ the Boro
Enjoy community, cars, music, door prizes and concessions (sold by the church) at this classic cruise-in at River Rock Baptist Church (2248 Highway 99) from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturdays Aug. 3 and 17. The series will continue through September. For more information, find Murfreesboro Hot Rod Club on Facebook, or call 615-4055271 or 615-556-0547.
Aug. 6
terrArIuM tInker
Learn the art of crafting a unique mini ecosystem with hands-on experiences
frIdAy nIght lIVe
Following the cancellation of July’s Friday Night Live concert due to weather concerns, Main Street Murfreesboro has announced that The O’Donnells, who were slated to perform the July installment of the series, will take the stage on the Square on Friday, Aug. 2.
The O’Donnells consist of Darryl, Julie and Klinton O’Donnell, a family band that blends traditional country, gospel, bluegrass and early rock.
The Sept. 20 concert will feature R&B group Bizz and Everyday People before the 2024 season concludes with The Pilots on Oct. 25.
Main Street Murfreesboro has hosted free community concerts in historic downtown Murfreesboro since 2005.
The free concerts run from 6:30–9:30 p.m. in front of the Rutherford County Historic Courthouse. Visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org for more information.
at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 10–11 a.m. Bring Your Own Container with a lid (32 oz. maximum) or purchase a 16-oz. jar for $3 the day of. All other necessary materials will be provided. Select the perfect plants and artfully arrange them in a glass container. Bring a piece of the outdoors into your home with a terrarium that reflects your unique style. Registration is required. For more information, email outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov, call 615-217-3017 or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
Aug. 6
nIght sounds hIke
Meet at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) for a fun walk through the dark woods in search of local nighttime critters on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 7–8:30 p.m. Expect a moderate 3-mile hike through the backcountry trails of Barfield Crescent
Park. Headlamps will be provided, but bring water and closed-toed shoes. For more information, email ekreuziger@ murfreesborotn.gov, call 615-642-1103 or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
Aug. 6
rutherford Arts
AllIAnce MIxer
Friends and members of the Rutherford Arts Alliance are invited to the first monthly Member/Friend Mixer, hosted by RAA Executive Director Jeff Lysyczyn, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Champy’s (1209 NW Broad St.). These casual gatherings are a great opportunity to get to know each other, engage in meaningful conversations, and sometimes participate in informal Q&A sessions with other creatives and advocates. Everyone welcome and there is no cost to attend, so bring your creative friends.
Aug. 7 And 21
cocktAIls And conVersAtIons
Cocktails and Conversations meets every other Wednesday night from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at The Goat (2355 Adwell St.) for a fun networking mixer. This is a great opportunity to meet other local business professionals and connect in the community. Everyone is welcome to attend. August meetings will be Wednesdays, Aug. 7 and 21. For more information, find a Cocktails and Conversations group page on Facebook or call or text 615-557-4827.
Aug. 9
& 20
Bug sweep
Learn the difference between insects and arachnids while meeting one of the Wilderness Station’s animal ambassadors on Friday, Aug. 9, and Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 10–11 a.m. (401 Volunteer Rd.). Search high and low for creepy crawlies in the native garden while observing them through a magnifying glass. For more information, call 615-217-3017, email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
Aug. 10
peAch coBBler festIVAl
The 2024 Peach Cobbler Festival, held Saturday, Aug. 10, at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) will have more peach cobbler than ever before. The event runs from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and features over 100 vendors, food trucks and more. Admission is free, and for $5 attendees can participate in a peach cobbler taste testing and vote for their favorite cobbler. Winners will be announced at the event. The Peach Cobbler Festival is a rain-orshine event. For more information or to become a vendor, call 931-952-0472, email shawntain1998@gmail.com or find Brianna Victory Events on Facebook.
Aug. 13
stones rIVer kAyAkIng
Meet at the river for a casual paddle down the Stones River. Wildlife, birds and wildflowers are sure to appear on this excursion on Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 3–6 p.m. Space is limited and reservations are required. Equipment and instructions will be provided. Locations on the Stones River are determined based on current water levels. Program difficulty rating is 2 (moderate). The cost to join is $15; ages 10 and up are welcome. For more information, email
Aug. 11
V I ntAge BA se BA ll At oA kl A nds pA rk
The Stones River Scouts will take on the Phoenix of East Nashville on Sunday, Aug. 11, at Oaklands Park (427 Roberts St.). The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball was established in 2012 to entertain and educate communities by recreating the civility of 19th-century base ball, using the rules, equipment, costumes and culture of the 1860s, emphasizing honor, team play, respectful conduct and community pride. For more information, visit tennesseevintagebaseball.com
Outdoor Murfreesboro at ekreuziger@ murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.
Aug. 13
rutherford cABle August
gAtherIng
Join corporate trainer and author Blaine Little for a workshop on navigating gender dynamics in business communication on Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 7:15–9 a.m. at The Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.). Learn how differences in expression between men and women can lead to misunderstandings, costing American businesses $37 billion annually. Gain insights into recognizing subtle cues and improve team productivity, communication and sales. Network and enjoy breakfast, announcements, a speaker presentation and door prizes. Don’t forget to bring business cards. For more information, email info@rutherfordcable.org.
Aug. 13
lIVIng sent
The August 2024 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting is Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wilson Bank & Trust (3110 Memorial Blvd.). Living Sent Ministries aims to inspire and equip business and professional leaders at all levels to live out their Christian faith, “connecting Sunday to Monday.” A core principle of the group is
unteer Rd.) where an archery instructor will lead a class on the basics of a bow and arrow on Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 3–5 p.m. A 1-mile hike on a paved trail is required to the archery field. Please state if you need assistance upon registering. The cost to participate is $10; ages 7 and up are welcome. For more information, email ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.
Aug. 15
the connectIon
Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the August 2024 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 15. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, free, no-obligation networking event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. Networking begins at 5 p.m. with introductions at 6 p.m. Champy’s is located at 1290 NW Broad St. For more information, email bracken@boropulse.com or text or call 615-796-6248
Aug. 15
that God gave you your business or job to help build His Kingdom. A complimentary lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.
Aug. 13
BusIness After hours
The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce will hold its August Business After Hours networking event at United Community Bank (1835 E. Northfield Blvd.) on Tuesday, Aug. 13, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Admission is $15 for chamber members and $25 for non-members. For more information on this and other Chamber of Commerce events and ribbon cuttings, visit rutherfordchamber.org and find Events.
Aug. 13
tennessee trAIls AssocIAtIon MeetIng
The Tennessee Trails Association’s monthly meeting of the Murfreesboro chapter is Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 7–8 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd). For more information, text 615-971-8894 or visit tennesseetrails.org
Aug. 14
Archery for BegInners
How’s your aim? Want to find out? Come out to the Wilderness Station (401 Vol-
rIVer explorAtIon
Meet at the Stones River Overlook within Barfield Crescent Park (402 Volunteer Rd.) on Thursday, Aug. 15, from 10–11 a.m. Explore the river to catch and release crawfish, snails and other interesting macroinvertebrates. Discuss biodiversity and the importance of healthy waterways. Water shoes are recommended, as anyone getting in the water must keep their shoes on. Registration is required. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov.
beginning Aug. 16
BIg rIVer
Consider This Theatre Company presents the musical, Big River: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn at the Mills-Pate Arts Center (7120 Old Nashville Hwy.). Performances open Aug. 16. Mark Twain’s classic sweeps audiences down the mighty Mississippi as Huck Finn helps his friend Jim escape from slavery to freedom at the mouth of the Ohio River. Their adventures along the way are hilarious, suspenseful and heartwarming, bringing to life everyone’s favorite characters from the novel: the Widow Douglas and her stern sister, Miss Watson; the uproarious King and Duke, who may or may not be as
CONTiNuEd ON PAgE 8
harmless as they seem; Huck’s partner in crime, Tom Sawyer, and their rowdy gang of pals; Huck’s drunken father, the sinister Pap Finn; the lovely Mary Jane Wilkes, and Mary Jane’s trusting family. Propelled by an award-winning score from Roger Miller, country music’s prince of offbeat, this journey provides a theatrical celebration of pure Americana. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Aug. 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31; and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays Aug. 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31 and Sept. 1. For tickets and more information, visit mpactn.com
Aug. 16
thIrd frIdAy coMMunIty rhythM eVent
Everybody Drum Some continues its third Friday Community Rhythm Event series for those who would like to join their neighbors in some drumming. The next community rhythm session kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 16, at Old Fort Park near the park entrance and the playground. There is no cost to attend, and people of all ages are invited to participate in the drumming or to spectate. Participants may bring drums, shakers, tambourines, woodblocks or percussive instruments of any type, but plenty of instruments will also be available for use. For more information, call or text 615-6317458, visit everybodydrumsome.com or find Everybody Drum Some on Facebook.
Aug. 16
Murfree sprIng wetlAnd stroll
See unique birds and a diverse amount of wildlife right next to downtown at Murfree Springs Wetlands (460 SE Broad St.) on Friday, Aug. 16, from 6:30–7:30 p.m. Stroll around the wetlands and learn about this surprisingly important ecosystem. Meet a Wilderness Station Programmer at the start of the boardwalk at the Murfree Spring Wetlands and see numerous birds, waterfowl, and if you’re lucky, some otters or beavers. For more information, email outdoormurfreesboro@ murfreesborotn.gov, call 615-217-3017 or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
Aug. 17
Berry festIVAl
Come out to the 2024 Berry Festival, held Saturday, Aug. 17, at Lane AgriPark (315 John R. Rice Blvd.), for a “berry good” time. The event runs from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and features over 100 vendors, live music, face painting, berryscented candles, all sorts of berry food items and desserts, food trucks and
Aug. 15–24
wIlson county fAIr – tennessee stAte fAIr
The Wilson County Fair – Tennessee State Fair will be held Aug. 15–24 at James E. Ward Agricultural Center (945 E. Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon). Activities include livestock shows, rides, competitions, entertainment, an antique car show, horseshoe pitching, fruits and vegetable competitions, a cat show, a dog show, a bluegrass competition, a cornbread challenge, banana pudding contest and other food competitions. New competitions for 2024 will include a sourdough bread competition, Christmas wreath competition, home brewing competition and a blacksmith competition. The Tennessee State Championship Truck and Tractor Pulls will be held Aug. 15–17 starting at 7 p.m. each night. “You can’t see it all in just one visit.” Musical entertainment will take various stages each day; catch Chapel Hart at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18; Exile at 8 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 19; Ty Gregory at 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 16; the Fredonia Bluegrass Band at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17; the David Parmely Band at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24 and many more attractions. Admission to the fair for adults is $12, children 6–12 are $6 and children 5 and under are admitted free. A season ticket is $45 and is good for admission all 10 days. A mega-ticket is $30 and includes gate admission and a ride armband. The fair hours are Monday through Friday beginning at 5 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m. and Sundays at noon. Buildings and exhibits close around 10 p.m. with rides closing at 11 p.m. For a full schedule and more information, visit wilsoncountytnstatefair.com.
more. Admission is free. The first 200 adults through the door receive a free goodie bag. For more information or to become a vendor, call 931-952-0472, email shawntain1998@gmail.com or find Brianna Victory Events on Facebook.
Aug. 17
cAVe explorIng
Have an adventure in one of Tennessee’s many wild caves on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. There will be lots of crawling over rocks and mud. This adventure is not for your casual outdoorsman. Upper body strength and balance is necessary in all wild caves. Meet at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). Transportation and all equipment are provided; ages 10 and up are welcome.
Aug. 17
hIke wIth A nAturAlIst
Come and enjoy the nature that surrounds us at Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10:30–11:30 a.m., led by Tennessee State Naturalist Jane. Blaze the trail, hike and learn about animals, bugs, trees and wildflowers in the state. There is no cost to join. For more information, call 615-217-3017, email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
Aug. 20
explore MedIterrAneAn eAtIng
Come learn what kinds of foods you can eat and how this eating pattern could benefit you on Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 10–11:30 a.m. at Lane Agri-Park’s community center classroom (315 John R. RIce Blvd.). There is no cost to attend. Register by calling 615-898-7710; deadline to register is Monday, Aug. 12 (limited to 20 participants).
Aug. 20
forensIc Anthropology lecture And ActIVItIes
Program Difficulty Rating is 3 (challenging). Cost to participate is $15. For more information, call 615-642-1103, email ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov, or visit visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com
Aug. 17
fIresIde fIreflIes
Enjoy an old-fashioned light show of fireflies and ignite your ears with night sounds at the Barfield Campground (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 6:30–8 p.m. Consider bringing lawn chairs, flashlights or headlamps, and snacks. Relax by the bonfire and make it a night to remember. Email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017 for more information, or visit tnmurfreesboroweb.myvscloud.com.
“CSI” enthusiasts or those with an investigative curiosity may want to sign up for the 2024 Lifelong Learning Program at MTSU, where this year’s focus is on forensic anthropology. Dr. Tom Holland, renowned forensic anthropologist and director of MTSU’s Forensic Institute of Research and Education, will lead a lecture and hands-on activities at the annual Lifelong Learning program on Tuesday, Aug. 20, from 9 a.m.–noon. This program will spotlight MTSU’s Forensic Institute for Research and Education, or FIRE, at Wiser-Patten Science Hall, Room 102 (422 Old Main Circle). Holland will present “True Crimes and War Dead: The World of Forensic Anthropology” and explore the field of forensic anthropology through notable historical cases, including the identification of the unknown soldier from Vietnam who was once buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as Tsar Nicholas Romanov and his family. After the lecture portion, participants will venture into the FIRE laboratory for hands-on activities, such as estimating the age and stature of a skeleton. The program and parking are free, but registration is requested. Reserve your spot at bit.ly/4cZiGt1 or email jennifer.rice@mtsu.edu.
Aug. 21
guIded tour of cAnnonsBurgh VIllAge Homeschool families can kick off “Back to School” with Homeschool Days Guided Tours of Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) on Wednesday, Aug. 21 or Thursday, Aug. 29 from 10–11 a.m. The program features a guided tour of the village and history of the buildings. Admission is $3 per person and reservations are required by Wednesday, Aug. 14. Ages 18 and under are welcome; please arrive 15 minutes prior to program time. The cost to join is $3. For reservations, email mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-801-2606.
Aug. 22 & 28
ABcs & 123s In the VIllAge Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) holds its August Toddler Adventures, ABCs & 123s in the Village, on Thursday, Aug. 22 and Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 10–11 a.m. Kids can enjoy a story time, exploring the village and searching for items in the buildings and on the grounds. Reservations are required by Thursday, Aug. 15. Ages 5 and up are welcome; please arrive 15 minutes prior to program time. The cost to attend is $3. For reservations, call 615-801-2606 or email mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov.
Aug. 23
toddler plAy
The best way to love the outdoors is through play. Bring your little ones for a playtime inside at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Friday, Aug. 23, from 10–11 a.m. This self-guided event hosts sensory toys, fun crafts and encourages exploration in nature. The Nature Play area will also be incorporated so families can bird-watch, climb and play through the trees. Ages 1–4 are welcome. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov
Aug. 23
4th frIdAy networkIng
The monthly “funworking” event at Cedar Glade Brews is held the fourth Friday of every month from 5–7 p.m., presented by Reed and Associates of Primerica and Spread the Positive at Cedar Glade Brews (906 Ridgley Rd.). The event is focused on shining a light on what’s going right. Each month the event highlights a business making a positive impact in the local community and gives the public an opportunity to talk with them. Meet some of your
Aug. 31
huMMIngBIrd festIVAl
At the end of every summer, hundreds of hummingbirds can be found at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.), filling up on delicious nectar and insects before making their way south. Many people come to enjoy the chatter and beauty of these tiny flyers. At the Hummingbird Festival, these amazing creatures are celebrated and can be experienced firsthand. There will be children’s activities, guest speakers, hummingbird merchandise and more on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 7:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Banding starts at 7:30 a.m. with other activities starting at 10 a.m. There is no cost to attend; food is available for purchase. For more information, email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.
favorite STP Podcasters and get to know the people behind the microphone. There will be a food truck onsite, so grab a drink and a bite while you connect with the best in the ’Boro. For more information, find Cedar Glade Brews on Facebook.
Aug. 26
chess lunch
Who wants to play a game of chess? Community members interested in promoting the game of chess, helping raise interest for getting the game in area schools and organizations, sharing ideas on how chess can benefit others, involving their business in chess events and tournaments or just desiring to gather with other chess enthusiasts to play and discuss chess can come to a Murfreesboro Chess Lunch at Carmen’s Taqueria (206 W. Northfield Blvd.) from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 26. For more information, find an event page for Murfreesboro Chess Lunch on Facebook, email bracken@boropulse.com or text or call 615-796-6248.
o ngoing
f3 workouts
F3—which stands for fitness, fellowship and faith—holds free, outdoor, peer-led
referrals and help grow businesses. Please prepare a 60-second pitch about who you are and what you do, as well as a specific referral request for attendees on what can be done to help promote your business. The approximately 20-minute period at the end of each meeting is reserved for members to set up one-on-ones and socialize. Visit connectnashvillenetworking.com/events for more information or directions.
m ond Ays
gIrls And BIkes
The Murfreesboro Bicycle Club hosts its Girls and Bikes rides every Monday through September. Ladies, join in for a no-drop ride, all paces and all bikes welcome. A helmet and rear blinky are required (front recommended). For future routes, maps, distances and more information on the weekly Girls and Bikes group rides, email cmelbaum@ gmail.com or visit mborobike.com
m ond
Ays
MondAy nIght hIstory
workouts for men across the country. The free weekly workout sessions welcome all men and always end with a “circle of trust,” emphasizing the group’s commitment to faith. In Murfreesboro, F3 holds workouts on the Murfreesboro Public Square at 5 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Oakland Middle School (853 Dejarnette Ln.) at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesdays; at the Murfreesboro Medical Clinic/Gateway Island parking lot (1272 Garrison Dr.) at 5 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Old Fort Park (201 Golf Ln., at the north entrance parking lot) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. In Smyrna, F3 meets for workouts at Cedar Grove Elementary (354 Chaney Rd., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Thurman Francis Arts Academy (221 Todd Ln., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Stewart’s Creek High School (301 Red Hawk Pkwy., Smyrna) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. The group meets every week, rain or shine, hot or cold. For more information, visit f3murfreesboro.com.
m ond Ays
connect MurfreesBoro
Join Connect Murfreesboro each Monday from 9–10 a.m. at BoomBozz Craft Pizza & Taphouse (2839 Medical Center Pkwy.) for a casual networking event designed to connect professionals, build relationships, drive
The Patriot Institute presents free Monday Night History classes every Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at Hank’2 Doors Down (2333 Memorial Blvd.). Classes have been covering Western civilization and the American Revolution. The instructor, Galen Walker, formed The Patriot Institute in 2015 and has taught Monday Night History at various locations ever since. Classes started back with the Greek City-States and have progressed through Greece, Rome and the Middle Ages; most recently they covered the Pilgrims and Puritans and the French and Indian War. Classes involve more than just listening to a lecture—they include quality video productions to cover each topic. For more information, visit thepatriotinstitute.org or find The Patriot Institute on Facebook.
Tuesd Ays
tIny
tec
Meet at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) for TinyTEC on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. TinyTEC is a STEAM-based program for pre-K-aged children, but all ages are welcome. Read a book about science and perform an experiment or make a craft item. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call 615225-8312 or visit rclstn.org.
Tuesd
Ays & Frid Ays
fArMers’ MArket
The Rutherford County Agricultural Extension Cooperation continues its produceronly farmers’ market in the indoor/open-air community center at the Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). The RCFM is
CONTiNuEd ON PAgE 10
PHOTO BY ASHLEIGH NEWNES
mond Ays
Casual Pint
Poker 6 p.m.
Chili’s Broad st.
Poker 6 p.m.
h ank’s
Open Mic 6 p.m.
Ja C k Brown’s
Trivia 7 p.m.
l evel iii
Trivia 7 p.m.
s myrna sP orts Pu B
Poker 6 p.m.
the Goat
Trivia 7 p.m.
the Fish h ouse
Bingo 7 p.m.
T uesd Ays
h a PPy’s
Poker 6:30 p.m.
Je FF erson’s
Trivia 7 p.m.
m ayday Brewery
Music Bingo
6:30 p.m.
m J’s Bar and Grill
Singo 7 p.m.
m ur F rees B oro a xe
Trivia 7 p.m.
n a C ho’s
Trivia 7 p.m.
r ed r o B in
Trivia 7 p.m.
the Fish h ouse
Poker 6 p.m.
WednesdAy
BoomBozz
Trivia 7 p.m.
Cam P us Pu B
Karaoke 9 p.m.
Chili’s Broad st.
Poker 6 p.m.
e l toro
Trivia 7 p.m.
h a PPy’s
Sports trivia
h ot s hotz
Poker 2 p.m.
s easons
Karaoke 7–11 p.m.
station Grill
Trivia 7 p.m.
the Boulevard
Trivia 7 p.m.
T hursd Ays
Bour B on & Brews
Karaoke
Cam P us Pu B
Karaoke 9 p.m.
CONTiNuEd FROM PAgE 9
Cedar Glade Brews
Board Games 6 p.m.
Front street Pu B
Trivia
h a PPy’s
Trivia 6:30 p.m.
m ar G aritas
Karaoke 6 p.m.
m ayday Brewery
Bingo 6:30 p.m.
m iddle Ground
Brewin G Co.
Trivia 7 p.m.
Party Fowl
Trivia 7 p.m.
s myrna sP orts Pu B
Poker 6 p.m.
s myrna v F w Post
Karaoke 7 p.m.
the Fish h ouse
Bingo 7 p.m.
F rid Ays
615 d istri C t
Poker 7 p.m.
h andle B ar
Karaoke 8 p.m.
Cam P us Pu B
Karaoke 9 p.m.
Front street Pu B
Karaoke 7 p.m.
h ot s hotz
Karaoke
m ar G aritas
Karaoke 7 p.m.
s easons
Karaoke 10 p.m.
s AT urd Ays
Cam P us Pu B
Karaoke 9 p.m.
Front street Pu B
Karaoke 7 p.m.
m ar G aritas
Karaoke 7 p.m.
m s. m arian’s Ca F e
Bingo 5–8 p.m.
n a C ho’s
Survey Time
Showdown 7 p.m.
s easons
Karaoke 10 p.m.
s myrna sP orts Pu B
Poker 2 p.m.
sund Ays
615 d istri C t
Poker 4 p.m.
Cedar Glade Brews
Trivia 5–7 p.m.
h ot s hotz
Poker 2 p.m.
s myrna v F w Post
Karaoke 7p.m.
open from 7 a.m.–noon every Tuesday and Friday. Market vendors hail from over a dozen Middle Tennessee counties and sell a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, baked and canned goods, flowers, plants and more. There are also “Come and Go” informative sessions for the general public from 9–11 a.m. in the lobby. Topics range from sustainable gardening, cooking, food preservation and environmental education and more. The Master Gardeners of Rutherford County are available 9 a.m.–noon in the demonstration garden for questions and tours. Shop with local artisans on “Artisan Fridays” to find an array of treasures: wood crafts, jewelry, sewn and hand-crafted items, body care products, candles and other creations. For more information, visit rutherford.tennessee.edu/farmers-market or call 615-898-7710.
Wednesd Ays
networkIng for AwesoMe people
Are you looking to meet and connect with other local business owners? Do you want to grow your network and pick up some skills along the way? Networking for Awesome People meets each week on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at the Achieve Entrepreneur and CoWorking Center (1630 S. Church St.). All you need to bring is a good attitude. Each attendee gets about a minute to explain what they do and what they need, followed by a discussion question of the week. Networking for Awesome People encourages open discussion to help everyone grow. For more information, find a Networking for Awesome People group on Facebook.
Wednesd Ays
Boro 2 squAre
The Boro 2 Square running group meets at Mayday Brewery (521 Old Salem Rd.) every Wednesday at 6 p.m. The group welcomes runners of all paces looking to get out to run and socialize with other runners. Normal run distances are between 3 and 5 miles. Participants are welcome to hang out and socialize at Mayday following the run. For more information, visit facebook.com/boro2square.
Wednesd Ays
gIrls who code
Meet at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr) for Girls Who Code on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. for 6th–12th graders. Girls Who Code is a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology. This
is a free after-school computer science program and is not exclusively for girls. Pre-register by calling 615-225-8312.
Thursd Ays
grAss MAsters
lAwncAre course
Learn more than you bargained for about lawncare if you complete the four-session lawncare course on Thursdays Aug. 15–Sept. 5 from 6–8 p.m. (new material is covered each night) at Lane Agri-Park’s office complex auditorium (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). Learn about the different kinds of turfgrasses you can grow and how to manage them, options for establishing a new lawn, renovation tips for existing lawns, pest control and management (weeds, insects, diseases), and fertilization. Look at various turfgrasses growing at the on-site turfgrass demonstration area and demonstrate correct fertilizer and pesticide application techniques. For more information, email mmote1@utk.
Thursd Ays
MAd cow trek cluB
The Mad Cow Trek Club running group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). The group embarks on a route of 4–8 miles and welcomes runners of all paces and abilities. Find Mad Cow Running Company (MCRC) on Facebook for course routes and more details. All runners are encouraged to stay after each run for food and drinks.
Thursd Ays
tInkertec
Come out to the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) for TinkerTEC on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. TinkerTEC is a STEAM-based program for elementaryaged children, but all ages are welcome. Read a book about science and perform an experiment or make a craft item. There is no cost to attend. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.
Frid Ays
c3 networkIng
C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Achieve Entrepreneur and CoWorking Center (1630 S. Church St.) held on Fridays from 8:30–10:30 a.m. The mission is to build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support each other’s professional growth and educate people on how to participate in the local community. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.
Frid Ays
MurfreesBoro coMMunIty chess
Murfreesboro Community Chess meets at McAlister’s Deli (2357 Medical Center Pkwy.) every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Organizers invite those of all ages and skill levels to this casual chess meetup each week. Those attending may bring a board and a clock if they can, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.
sAT urd Ays
sMyrnA depot MArket
Carpe Artista presents the Smyrna Depot Farmers Market in partnership with the Town of Smyrna from 8 a.m.–noon at the Historic Smyrna Front Street Depot District (98 Front St.) every Saturday through Sept. 21. For more information, visit carpeartista.com/farmers-market or call 615-984-4038.
sAT
urd Ays
sAturdAy MArket
The Main Street Saturday Market continues in downtown Murfreesboro. The weekly farmers market will take place on the Murfreesboro Public Square every Saturday from 8 a.m.–noon through the end of October. Spend the day with real farmers, real food and real community and find a wide variety of produce, locally raised meats, fresh breads and pastries, mushrooms, honey, soaps and lotions, sauces, jams and more. For more information, find Murfreesboro Saturday Market on Facebook.
sAT urd Ays
coffee & conVersAtIon
The Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting Murfreesboro’s local history since 1971. The RCHS aims to be a community resource for those researching their family, property or perhaps just old fun facts. The Historical Society hosts Coffee & Conversation each Saturday morning from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). This is a very informal, fun and informative event. Bring old photos or questions about the past to ask members, and enjoy free coffee and donuts. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org. s und Ays
coffee/BreAkfAst
wIth A VeterAn
All are welcome to join local veterans for coffee or breakfast and conversation on Sunday mornings from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Joanie’s, located on the Public Square in downtown Murfreesboro.
concerts Live Music in M idd L e tennessee
Thurs, 8/1
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Webb Barringer
h ank’s h onky tonk
Silent Ruckus
Fri, 8/2
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Bill Ashmore & the Last Stand
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Delyn Christian; Leigh Hutchins Trio
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Down South Band
h o P sP rin G s
Clever Girl; Danger House; Safety Third
Ja C k’s Pla C e
Tony Castellanos
m ayday Brewery
Brandon Scott
m ur Frees Boro Pu B li C s quare
The O’Donnells
Pu C kett’s
The Mighty Train Wrecks
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Shane & the Money Makers
sAT, 8/3
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar
Soulshine
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Servility; Tony Castellanos
Carmen’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn
Cedar Glade Brews
Tony Hartman; Alex Creamer
City Ca F e
Everette Brown Trio
h ank’s h onky tonk
American Pie; Mikki Zip Band
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Peter Moon Trio
Panther Creek Brews
Open Mic with Trace Hoover
Pu C kett’s
LynnMarie & E3
s un, 8/4
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar
Phoenix Rising
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Alecia Arnall
h ank’s h onky tonk
Crosstown
h o P sP rin G s
Da Jam Band
the Pu B li C h ouse
Tyler Powell; Memory Train; Mize and the Drive; Kris Colt; Mark Henes
m on, 8/5
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Open Mic Night with Toast
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 8/6
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Shane Douglas
h ank’s h onky tonk
Charlie Byrd
Wed, 8/7
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Brooklyn Ray
h ank’s h onky tonk
Kenna Elpers
h ank’2 d oors d own
Karaoke
Pu C kett’s
Carson Mac
Thurs, 8/8
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Cary & Sherrie Lynn
Fri, 8/9
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Bailey Rose; Jack Finley Band
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Trifecta
h arvester e vent Center
Jefferson St. Blues Review; Fredrick Weathersby Quintet; Chicago Charlie and the Businessmen
Ja C k’s Pla C e
Tony Castellanos
m ayday Brewery
Tony Hartman
Pu C kett’s
Karli & James
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Shane & the Money Makers
sAT, 8/10
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar
Junkbox
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Southbound Crows
Cedar Glade Brews
Jeff Lysyczyn
City Ca F e
Everette Brown Trio
Grindstone Cow B oy Mikayla Pashby; Jos Phillips
h ank’s h onky tonk
Tawnya Reynolds; In Cahoots
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Rubiks Groove
h o P sP rin G s
Arise Roots; Vibright Panther Creek Brews
Munkn; Bleached Out; Karate Chad; BuuLB; Dog’s Body
Pu C kett’s
Kenny Durham Trio s un, 8/11
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Joey Sykes
h ank’s h onky tonk
The O’Donnells
h o P sP rin G s
Da Jam Band
m on, 8/12
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Open Mic Night with Toast
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 8/13
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Mark Nemer
h ank’s h onky tonk
Joe Hooper
Wed, 8/14
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Maddie Rose
h ank’s h onky tonk
Robyn Taylor
Pu C kett’s
Kevin Daniel
Thurs, 8/15
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Kevin Smith
h ank’s h onky tonk
Will King
Fri, 8/16
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Tony Hartman
h ank’s h onky tonk
Sara Simmons; Jeff Caron Band
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Echo
Ja C k’s Pla C e
Tony Castellanos
Pu C kett’s
Logan Reeves
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Shane & the Money Makers
the Boro Bar & Grill
CowPunx; Aye Mammoth; Good Samaritan
w oodsvikin G Bar B ersho P
Jeff Lysyczyn
sAT, 8/17
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar
Whiskey Smoke
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Tim Turner Band; Tony Castellanos
Carmen’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn
City Ca F e
Everette Brown Trio
Grindstone Cow B oy
Preslee
h ank’s h onky tonk
Brett Carlisle; Cooter River Band
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Doc Flannel
h o P sP rin G s
Forever Abbey Road
Panther Creek Brews
Travis and Company
Pu C kett’s
Cole Ritter & the Night Owls
the Boro Bar & Grill
Malibu Blackout; Sci-Dona; Tennessee Blues Mob s un, 8/18
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Rattlesnake & Eggs
the Boro Bar & Grill
DONE; The Dirty Poors; Kid Romantic
h ank’s h onky tonk
Emily Miller
h o P sP rin G s
Da Jam Band
m on, 8/19
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Open Mic Night with Toast s myrna v F w Post 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 8/20
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Paul Rosewood
h ank’s h onky tonk
Jesse Black
h o P sP rin G s
Flummox; Sarmat; Theton; Torsion
Wed, 8/21
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Gray Daniels
h ank’s h onky tonk
Izzy Grace
Pu C kett’s
Kenna Elpers
Thurs, 8/22
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Denny Sarokin
h ank’s h onky tonk
Silent Ruckus
Fri, 8/23
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Cooter River Band
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Ashton Butler; Justin Dukes
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Escape Band
h o P sP rin G s
Ultimate McGraw
Ja C k’s Pla C e
Tony Castellanos
m ayday Brewery
Roland Justice
Pu C kett’s
The Mighty Train Wrecks
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Shane & the Money Makers
sAT, 8/24
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar
Grits & Whiskey
Boro Bour B on & Brews
The Hammonds; C.J. Conklin
City Ca F e
Everette Brown Trio
h ank’s h onky tonk
Krystal King; Whiskey Smoke
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Revolution
h arvester e vent Center
Tom Tippin; Drew Elliott
Panther Creek Brews
Sleep Nation
Pu C kett’s
The Howlin Embers
the Boro Bar & Grill
State Of Bliss; David Palmer
s un, 8/25
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Glen Wagner
h ank’s h onky tonk
Brothers in Black
h o P sP rin G s
Da Jam Band
m on, 8/26
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Open Mic Night with Toast
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 8/27
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Tucker Wilson
h ank’s h onky tonk
Delyn Christian
Wed, 8/28
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Clint Draper
h ank’s h onky tonk
Jeff Caron
Pu C kett’s
Austin Byrd the Boro Bar & Grill
Bryan Raymond; Desert Danish
Thurs, 8/29
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Miguel Dakota h ank’s h onky tonk
Austin Chatfield
Fri, 8/30
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Catchfire
Bur G er Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
h ank’s h onky tonk
Daniel Crane; Sawdust Jukebox
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Rudge Powell Band
h o P sP rin G s
Taylor’s Threads
Ja C k’s Pla C e
Tony Castellanos
m ayday Brewery
Brandon Scott
Pu C kett’s
Lisa Law Trio
s myrna v F w Post 8422
Shane & the Money Makers
sAT, 8/31
Bi G d addy’s h andle B ar Hammbone
Boro Bour B on & Brews
Breakin Steel; Kevin Wolf
Carmen’s taqueria
Jeff Lysyczyn City Ca F e
Everette Brown Trio
h ank’s h onky tonk
Dwayne Langston; The Wentzel Brothers
h a PPy’s sP orts l oun G e
Lost in Paradise
(Jimmy Buffett tribute)
h o P sP rin G s
Karrot (Korn tribute)
sounds
Big Mouth Bluegrass festival to feature roots renaissance man and banjo wizard
John Mc e uen
By steVe Morley
gRAMMy-wiNNiNg MuLTi-iNSTRuMENTALiST JOHN McEuEN is an engaging conversationalist who might veer into a detailed explanation about the technical limitations of grooves in vinyl records and then rhapsodize about his beloved teenage job doing magic tricks at Disneyland alongside a young Steve Martin, who started his job at the theme park’s magic shop the same day.
McEuen will be delivering his own brand of musical and comedic magic at the Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival, coming up Aug. 17 and 18 at Pelham’s extraordinary underground venue The Caverns. A founding member of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
and a passionate practitioner of traditional genres, McEuen also stands as an exemplar of roots music’s vast capacity to stretch beyond traditional norms. McEuen talked about this and more in a recent interview for the Pulse.
MurfreesBoro pulse:
It’s hard to imagine today’s thriving roots music scene without the traditional bluegrass instruments you put on the radar of mainstream popular culture as early as 1967.
john Mceuen: I was very proud of that. You know, on our first hit, “Buy for Me the Rain,” I used my five-string banjo, with a mute on it, and it was kind of the dominant instrument. And then when “Mr. Bojangles” came along, I played the mandolin on it because I thought it sounded better.
you have a new album of recitations set to music, The Newsman , which signals a first in your nearly 60year career. why spoken word?
I actually got a review in the San Diego paper once that said, “Whoever told this guy he could sing was wrong,” and that was 30 years ago. But the spoken word was just appealing to me because it’s harder than the song in some ways, because you don’t have the background vocals—you know, the ooh-la-las and all that going on. You have to have a good story.
speaking of good stories, your recently released children’s book, The Mountain Whipporwill, is based on a tale you’ve long performed about a local lad who wins a fiddle contest against expected odds. Might that have been the basis for the charlie daniels Band hit “the devil went down to georgia”?
It was the basis for it. I played “The Mountain Whippoorwill,” an early version that I had recorded, for Charlie Daniels one time when he was in Aspen. This is the 1970s, and when it was over, he didn’t say anything. I said, “Charlie, you awake?” He goes, “Yeah. I’m awake. That’s the damn finest thing I’ve
ever heard.” And six months later, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” came out.
with the many and varied projects you’ve done, does it feel like a homecoming to play at a bluegrass festival?
It’s more like total fear (chuckles) because they’re all so good—they’re pure bluegrass. Oh my God, [fiddle player] Michael Cleveland’s on that show, and he is really, really good. And the bluegrass people know it, but I always figure half the people that go to a show don’t really want to be there. They go with the half that do want to be there. You know, “Oh, honey, will you go to this bluegrass show with me? If you will, I’ll take you to see . . . you know, Neil Diamond or somebody.”
what would your advice be to someone who hasn’t been properly exposed to bluegrass?
If you haven’t experienced bluegrass music before, come hear what’s going on at the cave. It’s a wonderful representation of several different styles of people playing music that they love in a way that you can tell they love playing it. And that’s a nice thing.
you were influenced by bluegrass acts whose performances incorporated comedy. how does that influence show up in your own performances?
I try to be entertaining (laughter). You know, with the things you say, the things you do. “Ladies and gentlemen, here’s Rover, the world’s smartest mathematical dog. Rover, what’s two plus two?”
“Woof. Woof. Woof. Woof.”
“Come on, boy, one more!” and stuff like that. People sit and think, they get out their phone and say “two plus two is . . . wait a minute!”
I just try and take them on this silly journey I’ve been on. And there’s plenty of funny things that have happened on the road. And they’ll hear about some of them.
John McEuen & The Circle Band joins Blue Highway, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, danny Paisley & The Southern grass and others Aug. 17 and 18 at the Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival, held at the Caverns in grundy County, Tennessee. For festival tickets and schedule and more information on the caverns, visit thecaverns.com.
Bluegrass artists gather underground for aug. 17–18 Big Mouth festival
SuBTERRANEAN TENNESSEE CONCERT vENuE THE CAvERNS will echo with string band sounds the weekend of Aug. 17 and 18 as it hosts its Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival. This cool summer underground escape will feature an assortment of bluegrass artists including John McEuen & The Circle Band, Blue Highway, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass, Junior Sisk, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, The Price Sisters, Barefoot Nellie & Co., Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass, and Off The Wagon.
The two-day event will also offer camping, open jam sessions, artist workshops, craft vendors, food trucks and cave tours.
Two-day general admission festival tickets start at $79; onsite camping is include in the ticket price and kids 12 and under may attend for free. The Caverns is located at 555 Charlie Roberts Rd., Pelham, TN. For more information and various ticket options—which include RV passes, single-day tickets, VIP packages and Yurt stays—visit thecaverns.com.
blue highway
Po’ ramblin’ boys
PHOTO
tennessee Blues MoB Deep Dark Alibi longlegs
With a tone set early on by a formative, deep, dark Univox organ (with an apparent volume lever glitch, or speaker busted, possibly), vocalist Mike Phillips quickly breaks the notion of the beginning of a hip new pop record, and lead-rasps all-in, introducing the newest, dirtiest grunge-blues band in town, Tennessee Blues Mob. Out of Murfreesboro hotspot Twin Oak Recordings, Tennessee Blues Mob released its debut album, Deep Dark Alibi, in May 2024: a wild, local hallelujah to the dirty, blues-rock state of mind we all sometimes live in.
The redeeming, gospel feel attached to the sludgy, heavy, blues-rock of Deep Dark Alibi is owed to the heavily utilized organ, over which Phillips rasp-preaches the truths and tumults of men’s hearts across a softer, as-ballad-as-it-can-be “Six Feet Under,” to the more soulful and upbeat choirbacked sound of “Climb the Mountain.”
The debut’s title track opens with guitar riffage, morphing into an awesome wrestling intro with fancy solo-birding between the lead guitars as organ chords appear behind. A roller coaster suite continues to unfold, including the arena-rock-heavy, blues-infused “Two Devils,” utilizing the by-then, warmed-up and growling professional wrestling-intro feel.
Lyrically, the album explores addiction but harbors in between that topic and sobering intent, matched by a seasoned band able to amplify the subject matter, all with an all-around comfort that it’s not going to fly out of control.
The album packs the fervor of early Clutch through and through, with Phillips also presumably drawing from late-period Tom Waits and having no trouble hitting Lemmy-styled material in the choruses. The six tracks signify the beginning of something that should grow over time for the band that took the hardcore blues route rather than the metal one, both proper paths when it comes to the deep, dark and dirty. — Bryce hArMon
diRECTOR Osgood Perkins
STARRiNg Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Blair underwood RATEd R
Longlegs falls into the category of a movie whose advertising is almost too good for its own good. Once touted as having 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and being called “the scariest movie in the last decade,” such boasts do no favors in setting realistic expectations for another weird and dark exercise in atmospheria from Osgood Perkins. Most easily compared to such neo-classics as The Silence of the Lambs and Se7en, Longlegs follows FBI agent Lee Harker (Monroe), a pseudopsychic detective on the hunt for the titular serial killer. Whether because of her abilities, or some sort of neuro-divergence, Harker is socially awkward and singularly minded, though more outwardly timid and fraught than your typical protagonist. Her boss, Agent Carter (Underwood), is her foil. Together, they look for a serial killer
who has been active for two decades, a murderer of families who leaves behind no evidence except for a note written in code, signed: Longlegs. Director Osgood Perkins is an interesting guy (his father was the original Psycho himself). He has directed three other horror movies, two of which I like quite a lot. I’m not sure why Longlegs got more attention than his other films except that it has Nicolas Cage, whose appearance is utterly bizarre in what may be one of his most disturbing performances to date. Unsettling and off-putting aren’t strong enough words.
Those words also match the overall aura of this ’90s set thriller. Perkins permeates Longlegs with an almost mesmeric miasma of dread.
I love Perkins’ dark visions and the way he executes them, but Longlegs can feel a little overstuffed. Between the T. Rex music (love), the Zodiac-inspired cyphers, the dolls (did I forget to mention the dolls?), the visions, the (waves hands around) everything about Longlegs, it’s all good, but it’s all too much. A little self-editing can go a long way. Or maybe my expectations were set too high. — jAy spIght
Music Through the Decades
From Harvest to Hoedown
Spirit of the old-time string bands and early grand Ole Opry still endures
By glorIA chrIsty
Out of the soft gray clouds above a sweltering August mist, a lone wanderer plodded silently through the woods. Marked by years of hard work, the shrouded image slogged clumsily, crunching the terrain beneath. Under the roof of his sagging cabin, barely subsisting, there had been years of isolation in this remote area of Middle Tennessee. With a fiddle by his side, he pressed forward through the hills on the newly paved road to the city. The frustrated wayfarer muttered, “If I could get to Nashville, life would get better.” Unknowingly, he would share his folk culture, the old stories, and the singing of old songs with the world. His focus was finding work and creating a better life in Nashville.
In 1925, the connection for entertainers to the Opry in those early days meant a long drive by car, wagon or buggy and required passing through some of the most rugged terrain in the state. For many, the trip meant leaving early Saturday, getting to Nashville before noon, unloading, tuning their instruments, performing on WSM 650 radio, and then the long drive home in the wee hours of the morning. The early Opry was an assured pipeline to the rural folk culture that it claimed to celebrate. This setting thrived in those early days, with artists like Dr. Humphrey Bate from Gallatin, Sid Harkreader and Jack Jackson from Lebanon, Kirk and Sam McGee from Franklin, and our own Uncle Dave Macon, hailing from the Kittrell community near Murfreesboro.
By 1925, radio stations had already been broadcasting for three years from Memphis, Atlanta and Dallas. The tiny rural community of Lawrenceburg, some 80 miles south of Nashville near the Alabama line, was broadcasting gospel music on WOAN. Since 1923, the station had been owned by the largest publisher of old-time shape-note gospel songs, James D. Vaughn. It boasted having the first radio license in Tennessee. Vaughn sold his equipment to Fred “Pop” Exum and L.N. Smith, which allowed the opportunity to upgrade the equipment and boost the signal from 150 watts to 500 watts broadcasting from a radio supply store in Nashville. By September 1925, Nashville’s first radio station aired.
But by Oct. 5, 1925, the station came up against competition when WSM went on the air. On Nov. 28 of that same year, the Opry was born with the airing of its famous fiddle performance by Uncle
Jimmy Thompson. Not long after that, the station dominated successfully with the development of the hoedown bands at the beginning of the barn dance show on Saturday night called the “Grand Ole Opry.” George D. Hay was the decision-maker in starting the barn dance. Hay became the Opry’s founder, and later, a preserver of American folk culture.
Old-time music became the basis for the early success of the Opry. Switchboards lit up and letters came pouring in, demonstrating that their audience preferred banjo and fiddle music—the old tunes that had been played and sung for years.
The word “hoedown” has American roots. Specifically originating from the Southern tradition, it is generally believed that the word is a literal derivative of putting a “hoe down.” We can well imagine the farmers putting away their spades, scythes and hoes at the end of a long working day. Perhaps, on certain evenings, these farmers would busy their hands with musical instruments, with impromptu dancing being creatively performed.
The hoedown bands continued to be a tradition through the 1940s, forming, as Hay would say, “the backbone, and it would lend a rural flavor to the entire Grand Ole Opry.” He was always careful to schedule the bands in regular intervals throughout the show just in case the other acts became “too uptown or too western.” As Hay would say, the classic old-time tunes played by the old hoedown acts like the Fruit Jar Drinkers, the Crook Brothers, the Gully Jumpers, the Possum Hunters and Uncle Dave Macon would “get us back to earth the minute they plunk the first note.”
The hoedown band was a paragon of continuity weathering various fads of country music. Their wonderfully archaic string-band style, with uncompromising zeal and drive, became the Opry standard. Somehow once again, we yearn for that authenticity—the old-time music of those days, filled with its fun and frolic, healthy and healing to the soul. The endearing quality of the musical expression in those old tunes has an indescribable effect.
Experience “From Harvest to Hoedown,” the 2024 Roots Rendezvous presented by uncle dave Macon days, Sept. 6–7 at Hop Springs, 6790 John Bragg Hwy.
the chicken Band—which included uncle dave Macon and Mazzie Todd, both hoedown musicians in the early days of the Opry—was known was known for their love of fried chicken after their performance, payment for a performance was sometimes a fried chicken dinner
uncle dave Macon
sounds
uncle dave M acon days
Roots Music Revival
Join the celebration of old-timey string sounds at Hop springs, sept. 6–7
THE uNCLE dAvE MACON dAyS festival returns to Rutherford County, hosting its 2024 event at Hop Springs, set for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 6–7. The event celebrates the tradition of hoedown music.
For decades, Uncle Dave Macon Days held a summertime festival at Cannonsburgh Village. Following a pause during Covid and subsequent installments at Fountains at Gateway and in Shelbyville, the music has returned to Rutherford County this year.
The event will begin on Friday, Sept. 6, with gates to open at 3 p.m. that day, and will continue all day Saturday.
Billed this year as “Uncle Dave Macon Days Presents Roots Rendezvous,” the weekend’s theme of “From Harvest to Hoedown” will celebrate the musical heritage
and dance legacy of Middle Tennessee. Festivalgoers can expect performances from local artists including the Glade City Rounders, Jake Leg Stompers and Rockin’ Country.
Stones River Bluegrass and Caleb Christopher Edwards will perform on Friday and a special Dewdrop Jamboree will close out Friday night’s performances.
Saturday outdoor stage performances will feature sounds from around the world and will include steel pan artist Tony Hartman, Panamanian singer Ambar Herrera Lopez, an Indonesian fashion show presented by Decy Ramona, and Americana string band Frank Bailey and Friends. The indoor stage will host the Noelle Goodin Band, Delyn Christian Trio and much more.
For the first time in 57 years, the Cripple Creek Cloggers will perform in the
Kittrell area, since the group’s organizational days as the Kittrell and Rutherford County Square Dancers in 1967. The Slim Chance Band will accompany the dancers on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 3 p.m. in this display of the origins of hoedown music. Witness and interact with the creative works of local artists and community organizations at the Rendezvous, including ’Boro International, the Stones River Crafts Association and Boro Art Crawl.
Admission to Roots Rendezvous is $10 per vehicle. Hop Springs is located at 6790 John Bragg Hwy., Murfreesboro. For additional information on uncle d ave Macon d ays and Roots Rendezvous, visit rootsrendezvous.com or call 833-615-ROOT.
2024 Roots Rendezvous schedule
» F R iday, s ept. 6
4 p.m.
Opening Ceremonies
4:30 p.m.
Stones River Bluegrass (inside)
5:30 p.m.
Caleb Christopher Edwards (outside)
7:30 p.m.
dewdrop Jamboree (inside)
» s atu R day, s ept. 7
o utside stage
11 a.m.
Tony Hartman
11:45 a.m.
Ambar Herrera Lopez
12 p.m.
decy Ramona
12:20 p.m.
Frank Bailey & Friends
i nside stage
1 p.m.
Noelle goodin Band
2 p.m.
delyn Christian Trio
3 p.m.
Cripple Creek Cloggers
Slim Chance Band
4 p.m.
glade City Rounders
5 p.m.
Jake Leg Stompers
7 p.m.
Rockin’ Country
noelle goodin
Caleb ChristoPher edwards
ambar herrera loPez
glade C ity rounders
slim C han C e band
living
If You Go
s pruce f l Ats fA lls
great smoky Mountains Institute at tremont
9275 Tremont Rd, Townsend, TN
Spruce Flats Falls
e njoy scenic mountainside falls near g reat s moky Mountains Institute at tremont; bear sightings common in area
story By Br Acken MAyo p hotos By sA r A h M Ayo
Among the picturesque and peaceful destinations within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Spruce Flats Falls is one of the many wonderful waterfalls pouring over the rocks amidst the hills.
The trailhead for Spruce Flats sits near the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, an educational center complete with dorms and cabins that offers summer camps, family adventures, guided backpacking tours, photography workshops, a writers conference and other nature-related programming. Find the entrance to Tremont only 3 miles outside of Townsend in Blount County, Tennessee, just within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park boundary.
The community of Tremont—a name derived from a combination of “tree” and “mountain”—served as a logging operations base until 1938, when the National Parks Service absorbed the land.
Those embarking upon a journey to see
Spruce Flats Falls can park near the Institute’s visitor center. After a brief climb up a fairly steep hill, hikers reach the Buckeye Trail junction. Take a right to head towards Spruce Flats Falls.
A left here leads to the Lumber Ridge Trail, which does eventually offer an opportunity to loop back around, passing by the waterfall on the way back, but that turns the adventure into a reportedly very strenuous 7 miles, rather than the 1.5-mile round-trip length to Spruce Flats Falls and back accomplished when taking a right at this initial fork.
An out-and-back jaunt through the hills to the site of the falls travels a short, easy-tomoderate trail with some steep sections and rugged, rocky terrain, but nothing too extreme, suitable for most all levels of hikers.
The trek heads uphill to begin but levels off later on, eventually heading downhill to reach the falls.
Instructors with the GSMIT led a large group of teenage girls through the forest on an excursion to Spruce Flats Falls one afternoon, but even with groups of Institute participants on the trail, there’s plenty of room for all to enjoy the area and the expansive park.
A hiker noted the sounds of the birds singing and water flowing on the way to the falls above all else on a recent visit.
Arriving at the waterfall yields a lovely sight—as the waters of the Spruce Flats Branch tumbles down the tiers of rocks before that creek flows into the Middle Prong of the Little River a bit downstream from here.
Climb up to the highest section of the multi-tiered falls for a rocky ledge protruding over a plunge pool just large enough for a couple of outdoorspeople to jump in the water.
Some leap into the cold mountain water
here, alongside the falling water of the upper level of Spruce Flats Falls, as the pool is deep enough to submerge an adult over their head, making the spot a pleasing place for a plunge.
The area surrounding the various levels of rocks at the falls contains all sorts of boulders, alcoves and corners to perch and relax.
As an added natural bonus, a hiking party spotted numerous bears near the Spruce Flats Falls trail during a springtime visit.
Back at the visitors center, open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. those exploring the Tremont area can find maps, souvenirs, restrooms and information on the area.
And those exploring this piece of East Tennessee can discover all sorts of other trails, waterfalls, overlooks, sights and attractions within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the nearby Tuckaleechee Caverns.
clockwise from above: Hiker takes a chilly dip in the pool below Spruce Flats Falls; Rhododendrons in bloom; A summer class from the Tremont institute tours the trail with a ranger guide
Summer Vegetables
Many kinds of Tomatoes!
Strawberries
Large Assortment of Herbs
Porch & Deck
Hanging Baskets
Mixed Containers
Potting Materials
Wide
clockwise from top: Scenic view of the Smoky Mountains from the Spruce Flats Falls trail; Hikers make their way over gnarly roots and rocks on the meandering mountain trail; A mama bear enjoys a peaceful afternoon nap with her cubs in a shaded valley just off the trail; Rhododendrons in bloom
living spo T ligh T on nonpro F i T
Boxes of Blessing
Community members stock dozens of blessing boxes to help those in need of food
By l Aur A l I nds Ay
A NETwORk OF LOCAL “BLESSiNg
Boxes” throughout Rutherford County help local families who struggle with food insecurity, though many of the boxes empty quickly after they are filled. In response to the ongoing need, dedicated community organizers are working consistently to keep the food pantries filled and the blessings coming.
“The blessing boxes had been in downtown Murfreesboro for a few years when my husband and I had started filling the boxes outside of First Baptist Church during the winter when the men’s shelter was open,” said Sarah Carroll, an organizer of The Blessing Boxes of Rutherford County Facebook group.
“We noticed that every time we put items in it, it would empty right away, so I knew there was a big need.
“When we first started the group there were a handful of boxes around town,” Carroll told the Pulse in August 2024, “and then it started to spread around the county about three years ago.”
About that same time, on another side of Rutherford County in La Vergne, Deborah Balthrop and her granddaughter Kayleigh-Anne decided to get involved.
Blessing Boxes of rutherford c ounty
w alter h ill Ba P tist Chur C h
6607 Lebanon Rd.
Cres C ent Chur C h o F Christ
4915 Barfield Crescent Rd.
a dvent l utheran Chur C h
1700 Irby Ln.
r esident Box
7546 Antietam Ln.
now, we have about 50 boxes spread throughout the county.”
These pantries are always open. One of the boxes is outside Fellowship United Methodist Church in Murfreesboro, 24 hours a day, “providing a convenient and accessible resource for those facing financial difficulties or other challenges,” Fellowship UMC’s website says.
Suggested Items:
P o P -to P C anned G oods
G ranola or P rotein B ars
water • s P orts drinks
J ui C e P ou C hes or B oxes
“There is a high demand for food right now,” Carroll said. “That can be [from] anyone from low-income families to the elderly, who aren’t really getting a lot on their Social Security. Anything they can get to help stretch their money is very helpful to them. It helps our homeless community, college students and just about anyone who is down on their luck. There are a lot more people in need right now. Especially the homeless and for children.”
F ruit C u P s • P o P -tarts
ramen or B oxed noodles
sau C es • P eanut Pa C kets
C hi P s and sna C ks
tooth Paste / B rushes
hotel soa P s and sam P les
mini laundry deter G ent
travel size toiletries
P lasti C utensils
hot hands (in winter)
rolled throw B lankets
P et F ood • so C ks
F eminine P rodu C ts
hand sanitizer
“Through Kayleigh’s efforts to address food insecurity in Middle Tennessee, we created the We Are Hope Foundation,” Balthrop said. “The foundation has sponsored her dream of setting up blessing boxes throughout the city of La Vergne. In 2022, three little food pantries were built at Skyline Exhibitor Source, The Sonic Drive-In and at La Vergne Rescue Squad.”
F irst aid items
The pantries are stocked by community members and volunteers with a variety of items like non-perishable food, toiletries, household items and school supplies. Anyone can take what they need from the pantries.
“Blessing Boxes of Rutherford County has over 8,000 people now,” Carroll said. “More people than that know about it. And right
In consideration of the homeless community some will also place soap and other hygiene items in the boxes.
People who are moving to Rutherford County have also reached out to The Blessing Boxes of Rutherford County.
“They know their money will be really tight since they have to pay for a new home and stuff like that,” Carroll said. “So they have already reached out for resources to help their families.”
In the summer, some of the most needed items in the blessing boxes are frozen bottles of water, hygiene wipes, ready-to-eat food and school supplies (excluding items like glue and crayons that will melt). An Amazon wish list called Kayleigh’s Hope contains needed items that anyone can purchase on Amazon for the boxes.
Volunteers are also needed to help build boxes and donate lumber. Blessing Boxes of Rutherford County administrator Doug Caldwell helps distribute boxes and set up the boxes around Rutherford County.
Fellowshi P u nited m ethodist 2511 New Salem Hwy.
r eal l i F e Chur C h o F n azarene
2022 E. Main St.
Bla C kman Chur C h o F Christ 1353 Brinkley Rd.
d oors o F h o P e
428 E Bell St.
John Pittard e lementary sC hool
745 Dejarnett Ln.
Jerusalem C P Chur C h 7192 Mona Rd.
l eanna Chur C h o F Christ
4196 Sulphur Springs Rd.
s t. Patri C k’s a n G li C an Chur C h
7103 Baker Rd.
s tones r iver Chur C h o F Christ
1607 Hamilton Dr.
s alem Creek Chur C h
2525 Salem Creek Dr.
t rinity u nited m ethodist Chur C h
2303 Jones Blvd.
e mery u nited m ethodist Chur C h
2989 Emery Rd.
Farris Cha P el m ethodist Chur C h
2914 Barfield Rd.
First Ba P tist Chur C h
Vine St. across from Fire Station
h o BG ood e lementary
307 S. Baird Ln.
s t. Paul’s eP is C o Pal Chur C h
116 N Academy St.
m ur F rees B oro m issionary Ba P tist
316 Fortress Blvd.
Floren C e Chur C h o F Christ
6732 Old Nashville Hwy.
r uther F ord County Child s u PP ort
20 Public Square N, 3rd Floor
r esident Box
295 Highland Dr.
z ion h ill Ba P tist Chur C h
5121 Leanna Rd.
k in G wood Chur C h o F Christ
115 E. MTCS Rd.
Powell’s Cha P el Ba P tist Chur C h
8697 Powell’s Chapel Rd.
a nimal City Pet Center (Pet Box)
919 NW Broad St.
517 Cason Ln., C
s myrna Chur C h o F Christ
205 Front St., Smyrna Cornerstone m ethodist Chur C h
349 Chaney Rd., Smyrna w illiams sC otsman
326 Weakley Ln., Smyrna s myrna Chur C h o F the n azarene
404 Overton Dr.
v F w Post 8422
10157 Old Nashville Hwy., Smyrna
l ivin G Faith m inistries
208 Jefferson Pike, Smyrna
t he r iver at s myrna
8200 Safari Dr.
s tewart’s Creek l i F ePoint Chur C h
5100 Almaville Rd., Smyrna
s tewart’s Creek Chur C h o F Christ
4551 Poplar Wood Rd., Smyrna
h i G hland h ei G ht’s Chur C h o F Christ
785 S. Lowery St., Smyrna
t he s myrna Justi C e Center
400 Enon Springs Rd. E. (inside)
l as C assas Community Center
6531 Lascassas Pk., Lascassas
l i F e o F v i C tory
144 Bain Dr., La Vergne
l a v er G ne r es C ue s quad
141 Gambill Ln.
s oni C
5210 Murfreesboro Rd., La Vergne
r esident Box
287 Fergus Rd., La Vergne
r o C kvale Community Center
9972 Rockvale Rd., Rockvale
m ars h ill l od G e 1143 Hwy. 269, Christiana
m ilton Chur C h o F Christ 12155 Lascassas Pk., Milton
● For more information, or to become involved, visit the Facebook page for The Blessing Boxes of Rutherford County or kayleigh-Anne Balthrop.
Murfreesboro Nightclubs
HELLO, EvERyBOdy! I hope everybody is enjoying their summer. I know everybody’s on vacation, or wishing they were on vacation, like me.
In a recent issue of the Pulse we covered some of the restaurants the people of Murfreesboro used to love to go to. I thought: what about the bar scene or nightclubs that I remember from the 1980s?
Of course, to go into a place that served alcohol and had entertainment, you had to be of legal age, which was 21. There was no such thing as a photo ID to my knowledge unless maybe you were in the military, which I was not. The Tennessee drivers license at this time was green with a yellow seal in the corner. So naturally, there were some people who would try to make fake IDs that would make it possible to get into the nightclubs.
I remember my friends being nervous, going into the nightclub hoping not to get caught with a fake ID. I hate to say this, but it was kinda like a rite of passage to get to go into one of these nightclubs—you felt like you were all grown up (which we all know is far from the truth).
The first Murfreesboro nightclub I remember was called dAddy rABBIts , located on Memorial next door to the Smith Brothers Car Wash of today. I do remember a few fights breaking out there and some of the MTSU football players being involved. I just remember the big sign out front. It later became a Frank’s IGA, and today it’s still a store. One of the other places we would frequent is a place called fAces, which was
located on West Main Street. I remember it being a place to go where the girls liked to dance. As you entered, I remember the dance floor being to the left and you had to go down two or three steps to reach it. We had many good times at Faces. A geographic point of reference today would be the MTSU Rugby Fields.
Then there was cIty lIMIts , which was located on Thompson Lane. I believe this is when country music was starting to take off and line dancing was a big thing. the Boro BAr And grIll , owned and operated by Lee Roberts, was a favorite hangout of many, especially college kids who watched live music there. It is still there today, but before this building on Greenland Drive became The Boro it was ArMondo’s , a spaghetti and pizza place. One of my fondest memories growing up was going to Armondo’s after all the Central Middle School football games. My friends and I would walk over from Johnny “Red” Floyd stadium at MTSU and we would eat pizza and play Ping-Pong. Later in life we played beer pong at The Boro. I would go listen to bands at MAIn street, located on West Main. I can remember seeing the White Animals, Mel and the Party Hats and, believe it or not, Vanilla Ice of “Ice Ice Baby” fame.
Another place that I remember is B&l pIzzA on East Main Street. I remember a little group called REM playing there before they made it big. Right next door was a little place called jABB’s , previously the old Phillips bookstore on South Baird Lane
by MTSU. I remember going to see many bands there, such as 1159. I know many of you remember this, too. All this was going on in the ’80s and early ’90s.
The legendary Jimi Hendrix once played a small club in Murfreesboro and did what he did best—played the guitar. the eldorAdo cluB, which was also known as Dance Land, was mainly attended by African Americans in the 1950s and ’60s. It was located on Asbury Road near the Stones River National Battlefield. It is now just a shell as the roof has fallen in.
My claim to fame was seeing Elvis in 1975 at the Murphy Center. I did not get a scarf.
These are just some of my memories of the local nightclub life.
Now, on a serious note I would like to wish my mom, Carolyn, a happy 90th birthday and wish my partner in life, Mere, and her mom, Peggy, a happy birthday as well. August is a crazy birthday month for me! Mere on the 20th, Mom on the 22nd and Peggy on the 24th.
Remember to hug and tell your loved ones you love them and, as always, go out and do something nice for someone else.
Call Bill wilson for your local real estate needs at 615-406-5872.
sports
MTSu’S 2024 FOOTBALL SEASON, the school’s first under new head coach Derek Mason, kicks off Saturday, Aug. 31, against Tennessee Tech. Renewing a former rivalry, the Blue Raiders open the season in Murfreesboro against in-state foe TTU Golden Eagles in the first meeting between the two schools since 2006. MTSU owns a 36-32-7 record against Tech in the series that began in 1917.
Mason’s first game leading MTSU on the road will come the following week, Sept. 7, as the team goes to Oxford, Mississippi, to take on Ole Miss.
The Blue Raiders will then prepare for back-to-back September home games against Western Kentucky on Sept. 14—for the rivals’ annual “100 Miles of Hate” contest—and then against Duke on Sept. 21.
The Duke Blue Devils come to town with their first-year head coach Manny Diaz, who served as the Blue Raiders’ defensive coordinator from 2006 to 2009. Duke’s 2019 win in Murfreesboro marked the last
game. 2024 marked the first college football video game release since NCAA Football 14, following court battles related to compensating the athletes depicted within the game.
Ahead of the new game’s release, college football players could opt into an agreement with EA Sports in which the developer paid each of the thousands of student-athletes included in the game a flat $600 payment—as well as a copy of the video game—in exchange for them allowing the game to use their name, image and likeness.
MTSU wide receiver Omari Kelly, one of the many players included in College Football 25, said he grew up playing previous versions of the popular EA games.
2024 sChedule
s aturday, a u G. 31
6 p.m. • Tennessee Tech
s aturday, s e P t. 7
3:15 p.m. @ Ole Miss
s aturday, s e P t. 14
6 p.m.• Western Kentucky
s aturday, s e P t. 21
6 p.m. • Duke
s aturday, s e P t. 28 time TBA @ Memphis
thursday, oC t. 10
7 p.m. @ Louisiana Tech
tuesday, oC t. 15
7 p.m. • Kennesaw State
w ednesday, oC t. 23
6:30 p.m. @ Jacksonville State
s aturday, n ov. 2
2:30 p.m. @ University of Texas at El Paso
s aturday, n ov. 9
12 p.m. • Liberty
s aturday, n ov. 23
1:30 p.m. • New Mexico State
s aturday, n ov. 30
1 p.m. @ Florida International
“It’s kind of surreal,” Kelly said in anticipation of its release, “just because I played the last game a lot.”
EA Sports has also put great detail into the stadium environments for all 134 FBS program featured in the series revival.
time MTSU hosted a Power 5 team.
On Sept. 28, the Blue Raiders will head down I-40 to face in-state foe Memphis for the first contest between those Tennessee schools since 2014.
In October, Conference USA will continue its mid-week games, with three straight mid-week football games for MTSU. The team begins the stretch on the road on Thursday, Oct. 10, against Louisiana Tech. After four tries, MTSU has still not defeated the Bulldogs in Ruston, Louisiana.
After only four days’ rest, the Blue Raiders will return home to host Kennesaw State on Tuesday, Oct. 15. This will mark MT’s firstever meeting against the Kennesaw State Owls, newcomers to C-USA and the FBS.
The team will wrap up the mid-week portion of its schedule on Wednesday, Oct 23, at Jacksonville State. November games will all be back on Saturdays.
Many college football fans are particularly excited for this season following the July release of the EA Sports College Football 25 video
MTSU Associate AD for Marketing and Fan Engagement Chelsea Floyd, who handles licensing for the university, said she’d been in communication with EA Sports since early 2021 on licensing the Blue Raiders in the game and that MTSU has sent hundreds of photos since.
This includes images of not only Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium, but also of tailgating
on campus, the Raider Walk, fan pictures during games and, of course, photos of MTSU’s mascot, Lightning. EA even requested concourse photos showing where concessions stands are specifically located.
“EA Sports is really watching,” Floyd said. “They want to make it as close to our atmosphere as possible.”
EA says the location of the band within each school’s stadium will be accurate as well, and the game will include chants led by the cheerleaders and music from each band.
Blue Raider fans playing the game can take the digital field as QB Nicholas Vattiato. MTSU plans to update its uniforms for the 2024 season, but football fans playing the College Football 25 game will be able to play as MTSU in those uniforms before the real Blue Raiders take the field against Tennessee Tech on Aug. 31.
As far as the real squad taking the field in 2024, coaches say fans can expect a physical style of play on both sides of the ball with Coach Mason at the helm.
Mason tapped Bodie Reeder—who worked with Mason while the two were at Auburn, and who most recently served as offensive coordinator at Northern Iowa—to serve as MTSU offensive coordinator.
“I would’ve walked to Murfreesboro to work here,” Reeder said. “I have a great deal of respect for Coach Mason.”
Reeder stressed the team’s emphasis on physicality.
“We want to have a downhill, physical run game,” he said. “We’re going to run gap schemes, we’re going to run power, we’re going to run counter. . . . It’s going to be more punching it at people.
“Once you start getting the run game going, you start getting the coverages that allow you to be explosive and throw the ball down the field.”
Find tickets to MTSu football games on Ticketmaster; learn more about the Blue Raiders at goblueraiders.com.
CoaCh mason
CoaCh reeder
Food restaurant
iBrunch, Brew and You!
The Dish
B runch A nd B rew c A fe 1220 E. Northfield Blvd. Mon.–Sat.: 6 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sun.: 7 a.m.–3 p.m. 615-397-0784
n addition to the abundant doughnuts, pastries and coffee beverages served at Brunch and Brew Cafe, a Murfreesboro shop located on Northfield Boulevard, the large menu also contains a wide variety of savory dishes.
Alongside the popular coffee and doughnuts, find breakfast sandwiches and tacos, salads, Phillies, flatbread pizzas, burritos, omelets, burgers and much more at the spot, which opened under the name of “Joe and Dough” in 2022 but soon changed its name to Brunch and Brew, perhaps to better reflect the idea that the establishment offers much more than simply joe and dough—it’s a full brunch experience.
Patrons can order steak, chicken or tofu along with veggies, rice, beans and sauce either as a burrito or served as a bowl.
This “Grande Bowl” contains a generous amount of steak for $9.99.
“I really like the protein steak bowl with jalapeño ranch and their green apple refresher with lemonade,” Brunch and Brew customer Alex Leverette said after a recent meal.
These iced or frozen “refreshers” can be built upon a base of lemonade, tea, water or Red Bull and customers can select from
story By BrAcken MAyo
photos By sArAh MAyo
various flavor add-ins, such as watermelon, dragonfruit, honeydew, blue raspberry, peach and passionfruit.
The full coffee menu at the spot has all sorts of signature latte combinations—mocha caramel, Nutella, salted caramel, snickerdoodle, chai and more—as well as cold brew coffee, cappuccinos and frappuccinos. The beverage menu also contains smoothies, Earl Grey tea and boba tea.
“It tastes like real mango in the boba tea,”
one Brunch and Brew customer said recently during a first visit to the cafe. In addition to the mango, other boba tea flavors include Thai tea, coconut, pumpkin spice and taro.
Another customer recommends the biscuits and gravy, while Victoria Blackmer posted that “I personally like the egg and potato bowl, with a caramel vanilla frappuccino.”
The omelets are popular with many locals, and Brunch and Brew packs its display
6 glazed or iced doughnuts: $7.99; italian, Hawaiian, Cuban, ham or turkey panini: $7.99; Large latte, hot or iced: $5.99; Filled Cronut or croissant: $2.99; Avocado toast: $3.99; Breakfast burrito: $8.99; Half-pound burger and fries: $7.99 brunchandbrewcafe.com
case with beautiful doughnuts daily.
“Their zebra doughnut and masala omelet were fantastic!” according to Ashleigh Chokshi.
Others compliment the comfortable atmosphere, which includes a few couches in addition to the tables and stools.
Try a Boston cream Cronut—a creamfilled croissant covered in chocolate. The establishment also serves croissants stuffed with blueberry filling and cream cheese— light, flaky and very sweet.
Among all of the sweets, waffles, bagels and biscuits, also find ample lower carb offerings like salads.
The place serves a good Cuban sandwich, though some of the sauces and flavor choices may not appeal to everyone.
“What is this—raspberry doughnut filling?” one customer wondered as she dined upon the Hawaiian sandwich. Turns out the sweet red substance was guava jelly, which she found a little overly sweet for the sandwich, but said otherwise the panini was very good, with some grilled pineapple slices included along with the ham, turkey and Swiss. Most of the paninis go for $7.99, a decent value for the price, and the peppery avocado toast, topped with
guacamole toast
seeds and spices, can make a tasty light breakfast or snack for $3.99.
Brunch and Brew opens early each morning, but be aware, it currently closes at 3 p.m. each day. The shop runs various specials periodically, such as 6 doughnuts for $4.99 throughout July. Stay tuned to its social media sites for updates on specials.
“My kids love the donuts and I’m in love with the biscuits,” Adrienne Birt reported.
“Best pricing around town and the frappes are to die for.”
So stop in the place—pick up a copy of the Pulse while there—and enjoy brunch, brew or dough, a refresher, sandwich, boba tea or taco.
Brunch and Brew’s a “quiet and comfortable place to work while getting a cup of coffee, doughnut or sandwich. I particularly liked the cherry fritter!” said Jennifer Pike.
Mango Boba tea
hawaiian panini
around town
Five
on
Black, Hwy 55,
Maru Sushi, MyEyedr., Carhartt, Prohibition Home Brewing, Amoco, Bart’s kitchen, Zio JohnB’s Ny Pizza
By delores ell I ott
Hwy 55 BuRgERS SHAkES & FRiES, located at 5131 Franklin Rd., has announced that it is currently hiring for various positions. Hwy 55 features cheeseburgers, cheesesteaks, frozen custard, chicken platters, made-to-order salads and hand-squeezed lemonade. A handful of Middle Tennessee Hwy 55 locations currently operate in Gallatin, Lewisburg, Nolensville, Spring Hill, Shelbyville and Tullahoma. To apply for general manager, leadership, team member or server positions, visit synchr-recruit.net. For additional information, visit hwy55.com
MARu SuSHi ANd gRiLL, which currently has locations in East and West Nashville, has plans to open a Murfreesboro location at 3921 Franklin Rd. in the same building as Big Pig’s Wine and Spirits and TN Craft Butcher.
ZiO JOHNB’S Ny PiZZA recently opened a pop-up location in the Walter Hill area. Operating out of Macca Villa at Riverside, 1218 W. Jefferson Pk., the pizzeria will offer curbside pickup and delivery services. Visit ziojohnbsnypizza.com for more information, hours of operation and to place an order.
MyEyEdR , a leading provider of eye health services with over 840 locations across the United States, opened its first Murfreesboro location in July at 2634 Medical Center Pkwy. MyEyeDr. offers eye exams and a full suite of eyewear solutions. This latest opening marks the brand’s 22nd location in Tennessee. The new Murfreesboro office is led by licensed optometrist Dr. Monique Emmons. Dr. Emmons and her team support patients along their eye health journeys with exams, state-of-the-art retinal imaging, and a satisfaction guarantee for all services and products. Patients benefit from a wide selection of value and designer eyeglasses and sunglasses as well as access to
ON
will soon open at 215 N. Church St. The new addition to Murfreesboro’s culinary landscape—part of the local family of restaurants that includes Five Senses and Steakhouse Five—says it will be downtown Murfreesboro’s new home for tomahawk ribeye. The new concept will also have a pet-friendly outdoor patio. Five on Black is on the lookout for talented individuals with a passion for food to join its team. For updates, visit fiveonblacktn.com.
the latest contact lens technology. MyEyeDr. accepts all insurances, with in-house insurance experts who handle all of the processing and paperwork on behalf of patients. For more information, visit myeyedr.com.
CARHARTT—the workwear brand known for its durable and warm outdoor apparel—will open a Murfreesboro store between the new CAVA and MyEyeDr. in the Clari Park development on Medical Center Parkway.
FARRELL-CALHOuN PAiNT opened its new Murfreesboro location at 1131 Brinkley Ave. earlier this year after moving from its former spot on Broad Street, now home to Heroes Den. The Memphis-based paint business has more than 40 locations across several states. According to the company’s website, many of the paints they offer are made with a unique, cross-linking resin system that gives the coating superior performance, adhesion, durability, washability, color and gloss retention. For more information, visit farrellcalhoun.com.
Vergne recently assembled to form Unidos Por Nuestras Familias/United for Our Families—a group to voice their concerns and demand an immediate stop to what they call predatory charges and harassment, exploitation, mistreatment and unfair practices implemented by new management.
Although Cedar Glen residents own their trailers, they must pay rent on the land on which trailers are parked. Following the arrival of new management at Cedar Glen, its residents, predominantly Latinx and construction laborers, have reported significant rent increases, a new utility payment system resulting in inflated bills, and stringent restrictions on pet and vehicle ownership. One of the new policies indicates that only one car can be parked for each household. This restriction hit the community particularly hard. Management had planned to enforce these restrictions by towing extra cars, imposing a $60 fee per vehicle. This policy disproportionately affects construction workers who require separate vehicles for work and to store construction equipment and for family use.
A petition has been started among the residents. For more information, visit facebook.com/poderpopularnashville.
L&L CONTRACTORS, a leading roofing and siding company in Murfreesboro recently, celebrated the opening of its newly expanded showroom at 23 S. Public Sq.
“As a company and a team, we are proud to have built a legacy that will continue to protect the homes of our clients, families and friends for countless years to come,” said Vice President and CEO Russ Hensley. “L&L Contractors measures by the SQFT: Service, Quality, Family and Trust.”
Founded by Donald Lester in 2006, L&L Contractors is proudly family-owned and operated, and provides homeowners with expert advice to protect their most valuable home assets. For more information, visit landlcontractors.com
Jimmy Davis and Tammy Stump are working on opening HEMiSPHERES wiNE, a new wine bar, at 208 W. Main St. just off of the Square. For updates, visit facebook. com/hemisphereswinebar.
More than 100 residents of CEdAR gLEN MOBiLE HOME ANd Rv PARk in La
CEdAR gLAdE BREwS announced in early July that Jerremy Weaver, one of the brewery’s founders, suffered serious burns during an accident at his home. “He is progressing and everyone is hopeful for a complete recovery,” according to brewery co-owner Jonathan Harmon. “In the meantime, please come in and write some well wishes in a book we have at the bar.” For more information and updates, visit facebook.com/cedargladebrews.
SPEEdwAy MOTORS and AMERiCAN MOTORS, both formerly located at the corner of Church and Broad streets—just across from one other, one at 102 NW Broad St. and the other at 103 SE Broad St.—have both relocated due to the development coming to that area (Project Keystone and the Town Creek project). The car dealerships are now located at 1510 S. Church St.
The indoor playground kidS LANd opened in July at 2812 Old Fort Pkwy., Ste. E, next to Wasabi Japanese Steak House. Play admission is $15 for kids and $5 for adults.
A new AMOCO gas station has opened at 4923 NW Broad St., near Singer Road in
FivE
BLACk kiTCHEN ANd SPiRiT HOuSE
the Florence community. The store offers Broasters Chicken and Hunt Brothers Pizza among other hot food and plans to serve breakfast on Friday mornings. The Amoco offers 12 gas pumps; currently, soft opening hours are 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily.
A TAkE FivE convenience store will be coming to 2250 Memorial Blvd.
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation opened its new SkATE PARk ANd PuMP TRACk at Old Fort Park on July 19. The skate park is open to skateboards, scooters and bikes for free every day during daylight hours.
Chris Sharpe, the owner of PuRE HEART TATTOO, located at 1630 S. Church St., recently shared his story of redemption, faith and recovery to a full audience at the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center. Sharpe said his substance abuse started at the age of 13. He spoke of his days playing football in high school, when he suffered an ACL injury that sidelined his dream of being a star athlete. To manage the pain he started using methamphetamine, which began Sharpe’s downhill spiral, which made getting into trouble like a revolving door. Sharpe spent three years in a correctional facility for assaulting a police officer. While
in this facility, Sharpe began utilizing the services available to reprogram his life. Sharpe, now free from substance abuse, serves as a successful tattoo artist and business owner. He is also a husband, father and mentor.
“Chris has faced obstacles at every stage of life and continually finds ways to overcome and be successful. I am so appreciative that he shared his testimony with all of us,” said RCCWC Superintendent William Cope. “His story is so inspiring that it challenges me to look at my own life and say, ‘OK, where are your moments, what are your achievements and how can you be better?’”
Pure Heart Tattoo recently celebrated its two-year anniversary. For more information, visit tattooshopmurfreesboro.com.
PROHiBiTiON HOME BREwiNg has announced that, after three years at its shop on Ridgley Road, the brewery has found a larger location at Hop Springs Beer Park at 6790 John Bragg Hwy. and will move its homebrewing and winemaking supplies business there. Events and winemaking classes started at the new location in mid-July. Prohibition also announced that its CigaRV will be making more local appearances.
Formerly held at Prohibition, the weekly C3 Networking meeting now meets at
ACHiEvE ENTREPRENEuR ANd COwORkiNg CENTER, 1630 S. Church St., at 8:30 a.m. each Friday. Visit facebook.com/prohibitionmurfreesboro for more information.
Plans have been unveiled for BELL TOwER APARTMENTS, coming to the large parcel of land at 2588 New Salem Hwy. between Walmart and Publix. The gated, upscale facility will cater to seniors. The development will include 384 condominium and apartment units, as well as commercial facilities, on its 22 acres. Some units will serve assisted living and memory care residents. The property will also include water features and some wetland areas.
The City of Murfreesboro has elected not to move forward with the NOTES LivE project in the Gateway area due to Notes Live’s inability to meet the conditions set forth in its development agreement with the City. That agreement, which the parties executed in August 2022, called for Notes Live to construct an open-air amphitheater with seating for 4,500 patrons, a casual dining restaurant and an additional music and event venue. According to city officials, Notes Live will transfer the 20.13 acres located at Medical Center Parkway and Gateway Boulevard back to the City.
dOO d LES k i TCHEN AN d BA k ERy has closed, but Andrea and Scott Calamusa have taken over the restaurant space and will continue operations as BART ’ S k i TCHEN AN d BA k ERy . Andrea—the creative force behind the Joyfull Muffin Company—and Scott— known for his Cajun-inspired cuisine—say they intend to offer many of the favorite menu items from Doodles along with some of their own additions. Bart’s Kitchen and Bakery is now open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, follow Bart’s Kitchen and Bakery on Facebook and Instagram.
closIngs
SOuTHERN SPOON recently announced that its brick-and-mortar restaurant would close, with plans to focus more on catering and food truck services. However, the business still operates out of the same kitchen at 1303 Plaza Dr. in Smyrna. For more information, visit southernspoontn.com .
STOvER’S LiquidATiON has closed its Murfreesboro location at 2349 S. Church St.; Stover’s still operates locations in Cookeville and Oak Ridge.
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a rea Bus Transport to e xpand
wORk CONTiNuES TO PROgRESS on the Murfreesboro Transit Center. The $17.1 million Transit Center, located near the intersection of Bridge Avenue and New Salem Highway and whose groundbreaking ceremony was held back in October 2023, aims to improve the local transportation situation. Considering the rising amount of traffic the city experiences, increased public transportation offerings may help alleviate that traffic while providing mobility to those without vehicles of their own.
The new facility will feature a passenger pavilion, maintenance operations and administration building set to open next year.
The Center, designed by HDR and built by Rock City Construction, will look to enhance public transport in the area by offering a larger space for Murfreesboro Transit buses and support services. The project is part of a response by the Tennessee Department of Transportation and WeGo Public Transit to address ongoing concerns of regional congestion and is funded through a combination of city, state and federal funds.
Murfreesboro Transit currently operates its buses out of the lot at Burton and Walnut streets but will soon have a central hub for operations and passenger services
at the new Transit Center location.
Murfreesboro Transit now offers seven routes within the City of Murfreesboro; buses run Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
City of Murfreesboro’s Assistant Transportation Director Russ Brashear expects to expand those operating times and routes in the future.
“We hope to achieve this sometime after the Transit Center is open. The struggle to achieve that goal is finding drivers,” he said. “We plan to reintroduce service to the Cason Lane and St. Andrews area with a pilot route and ultimately have a permanent route after the Center opens.”
Project planners are looking into options to serve the Joe B. Jackson area as well.
The city says that WeGo/RTA will be using the facility to stage its Nashvillebased regional transit buses, though bus lines such as Greyhound will not be permitted to use the site.
Officials say the Murfreesboro Transit Center will be completed by April 2025.
For more information on Murfreesboro Transit and a map of current bus routes, visit murfreesborotn.gov/248.
work continues on Murfreesboro’s new transit center facility
By elIshA nelson
opinion
# F ree Your chi LD ren
By t I ffA ny B oyd
Don’t Be Fooled
Tennessee i s Marching Toward g lobalism
THE JOHN BiRCH SOCiETy recently posted on social media congratulating Tennessee on passing Senate Bill 2743. They claim, “Tennessee has taken a bold stand against the globalist UN Agenda, reinforcing its commitment to state sovereignty.”
According to the summary of the bill, the law “requires a political subdivision to provide a written attestation with the political subdivision’s annual audit to the comptroller of the treasury certifying that the political subdivision has not sought or received a grant in intentional pursuit of certain prohibited policies,” in reference to United Nations plans relative to Agenda 21, The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Net Zero Goals for 2050.
Tennessee has definitely taken a stand, but it isn’t to stand against the globalist agenda. Instead, they are completely on board with it. Governor Bill Lee has consistently advanced globalism through his push for universal school choice, medicalizing schools, at-risk boarding charter facilities, the innovative school model and the community school model, to name a few.
It makes me question whether the John Birch Society, an anti-communist political advocacy group, is banking on the ignorance of the citizens of Tennessee or simply has not done its research.
UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) has made it clear that school choice is the path that will be used to globalize education.
“Building on the GEM Report 2021/22, the recently published joint report ‘Regulating non-state actors in education: Findings
from a collaborative research project’ sheds light on how regulatory systems operate and the implications for shaping regulatory frameworks that uphold the principles of quality education, non-discrimination, and inclusion.”
UNESCO wants accountability measures in place for private education in order to ensure that they align with its agenda.
UNESCO, the World Health Organization, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, and The World Food Program jointly published a position paper calling for urgent investments in school health and nutrition.
“As the world is facing an education crisis that could rob generations of a promising future, UNESCO, UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Food Program (WFP) have come together to call for greater investments in school health and nutrition as part of national, regional, and global recovery plans.”
These organizations are inserting themselves into every facet of the lives of our nation’s children. There is no separating the globalization of education via school choice from any other political issue. It encompasses everything. It doesn’t matter what a politician’s stance is on any other issue. If they are pro school choice they are advocating for the globalization of education and complete and total government control of every aspect of our lives. That includes the advancement of communism. There is no compartmentalizing. The consequences will affect every aspect of your lives. There’s a reason they always go after complete control of the children via the education pipeline.
Charlotte Iserbyt sounded the alarm decades ago regarding the globalism of education. Speaking about her tenure during the Reagan administration, Charlotte recounted, “While working in the Office of Educational Research and Improvement, within the U.S. Department of Education, in 1981, I was assigned to work at the National Institute of Education research arm of the Department. One night, around midnight (I stayed late to scrounge around when no one was there!) I needed a typewriter ribbon so I went to the supply room to look for one. And, guess what I found? In the corner was a box entitled ‘The Goodlad Study.’ John Goodlad, now in his late eighties, probably the No. 1 change agent in the world, produced this study which consisted of four books funded by major tax-exempt foundations, outlining the restructuring of education which became the official plan in the early 1980s and which is being implemented today.”
This agenda is not new and it is almost complete. Conservatives have not only turned a blind eye but they have been willing participants, helping to advance the agenda and the march toward communism.
It raises the question, is the John Birch Society advocating for school choice?
“There
that the majority of our legislators have no idea what they are voting on and often haven’t even read the bills.
The fight against globalism is going to require identifying the major players and the initiatives they are using to implement their agenda. It is imperative that people stop falling for the smoke and mirrors.
is no separating the globalization of education via school choice from any other political issue. It encompasses everything. It doesn’t matter what a politician’s stance is on any other issue. If they are pro school choice they are advocating for the globalization of education and complete and total government control of every aspect of our lives.”
In a social media post in July of 2022 they celebrated the Supreme Court Carson v. Makin decision, which stated programs providing money for public school tuition can also be used for religious schools as well. This was not a victory. Instead, it simply opened the door for government intrusion into private religious education. As I have said before, there is nothing conservative about school choice. Making all forms of education government funded makes all forms of education government controlled. Where is the choice then?
Standing against the UN globalist agenda is going to require far more than lip service and Senate bills. After spending an exorbitant amount of time at the Capitol this last legislative session, it was very clear
Do Tennessee residents understand exactly which programs are being implemented in our schools to advance globalism? I have been outlining this for over a year in the Free YOUR Children seminars I have been hosting. None of this is being hidden. It is in plain view. They have been very open and transparent about their plans, yet “conservative lawmakers” are still kicking the ball down the court with their votes. There is no more room for complacency. This battle will not be won on Capitol Hill and it is mindboggling to me that people are allowing lobbyists and sell-out politicians to decide the trajectory of the future of our state and our children. If you are fed up and want to understand exactly how your state is marching toward globalism, contact me at freeyourchildren@ gmail.com. You can also tune in to WKOM 101.7 FM for the Free YOUR Children radio show on Saturdays at 4 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Listen on WKOM 101.7FM. Previously aired shows can be found on the podcast portal at frontporchradiotn.com
Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Free yOuR Children, a homeschool advocate, consultant, speaker and the founder and administrator of Middle Tennessee Christian Homeschool Connection. She holds a B.S. degree in interdisciplinary studies from MTSu. She is a wife of 30 years and mother to five children, grandmother to two. She is a former tenured public school teacher. She and her husband have home educated for 18 years. Contact her by emailing freeyourchildren@gmail.com.
Constitution Study
By pAul e ngel
When the delegates to the Constitutional Convention debated the role of the chief executive, many expected George Washington to become our first king. Between Mr. Washington’s humility and the delegates’ recent experience with a king, they decided we’d be better off with a president. With the recent case of Trump v. United States, many have asked: Have we turned the office of president into the office of king?
On Jan. 6, 2021, Congress had met to witness the counting of the ballots from the presidential electors, commonly known as the Electoral College. Many people had issues with how the preceding election had been handled (myself included). Some of them showed up at the Capital to both display their displeasure and, for some, to seek redress of their grievances. One of those who was there was then-President Donald J. Trump.
THe CaSe
This particular case started with an indictment for Mr. Trump regarding his actions on and around Jan. 6.
A federal grand jury indicted former President Donald J. Trump on four counts for conduct that occurred during his Presidency following the November 2020 election. The indictment alleged that after losing that election, Trump conspired to overturn it by spreading knowingly false claims of election fraud to obstruct the collecting, counting, and certifying of the election results. Trump moved to dismiss the indictment, arguing that a President has absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions performed within the outer perimeter of his official responsibilities, and that the indictment’s allegations fell within the core of his official duties. The District Court denied Trump’s motion to dismiss, holding that former Presidents do not possess federal criminal immunity for any acts. The D.C. Circuit affirmed.
— Trump v. United States
The Supreme Court, however, disagreed, saying that Trump does have immunity.
Under our constitutional structure of separated powers, the nature of Presidential power entitles a former President to absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority. And he is entitled to at least presumptive immunity from prosecution for all his official acts. There is no immunity for unofficial acts.
— Trump v. United States
The court based its decision on the doctrine of separation of powers. Under the
Presidential i mmunity
c
ourt gives executive the right to commit crimes without consequences
Constitution, each of the three branches of government are given specific powers which only they can exercise. The court expands on this in its opinion.
This case is the first criminal prosecution in our Nation’s history of a former President for actions taken during his Presidency.
Determining whether and under what circumstances such a prosecution may proceed requires careful assessment of the scope of Presidential power under the Constitution. The nature of that power requires that a former President have some immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts during his tenure in office. At least with respect to the President’s exercise of his core constitutional powers, this immunity must be absolute.
— Trump v. United States
Yes, the President’s power comes from the Constitution, but nowhere does the Constitution give the President absolute immunity from criminal prosecution.
When the court looks at the Framers’ design of the Presidency, it appears their view is myopic. As the dissent pointed out:
Commentators around the time of the Founding observed that federal officials had no immunity from prosecution, drawing no exception for the President. James Wilson recognized that federal officers who use their official powers to commit crimes “may be tried by their country; and if their criminality is established, the law will punish. A grand jury may present, a petty jury may convict, and the judges will pronounce the punishment.” . . .
This historical evidence reinforces that, from the very beginning, the presumption in this
each branch—the legislative, executive and judicial—are vested with specific and separate powers. But those powers are vested in offices, not the people in them.
The judicial Power shall extend to all Cases, in Law and Equity, arising under this Constitution, the Laws of the United States, and Treaties made, or which shall be made, under their Authority;
— U.S. Constitution, Article III, Section 2, Clause 1
How can the court have jurisdiction in all cases in law and equity if this court exempts the President from said jurisdiction? How can the court claim he is immune from answering for crimes? That doesn’t make sense.
Nation has always been that no man is free to flout the criminal law.
— Trump v. United States – Dissent
Contrary to the court’s opinion, not only is presidential immunity not included in the Constitution, but the idea of privilege was rejected during the convention. The idea of immunity for any office was downright offensive to those who drafted and commented on the Constitution.
What about the consequences of the President’s actions? Shouldn’t someone with the presidential powers consider the legality of their actions? Is there not a need to worry about the impact of one’s actions, especially if those actions are criminal? Shouldn’t the court’s dominant concern be about the application of the law?
The court has yet to provide a constitutional argument of how the separation of powers places anyone’s actions above review. What this court has done is promote the opinion of previous judges, unsupported by law or Constitution, above the supreme law of the land, and create a privilege for the President that was rejected by the federal convention.
Presidents therefore cannot be indicted based on conduct for which they are immune from prosecution.
— Trump v. United States
The court never answers what appears to be the most important question. How can we know if a president’s conduct is immune from prosecution if the deciders of facts, the courts, are not allowed to look?
The Constitution clearly spelled out that
When he uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he now will be insulated from criminal prosecution. Orders the Navy’s Seal Team 6 to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organizes a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune. — Trump v. United States
All of those actions, and plenty more, are part of the core official powers of the President, and expressly illegal.
Justice Sotomayor dissented to the court’s opinion, and was joined by Justices Kagan and Jackson.
Today’s decision to grant former Presidents criminal immunity . . . makes a mockery of the principle, foundational to our Constitution and system of Government, that no man is above the law. . . . Because our Constitution does not shield a former President from answering for criminal and treasonous acts, I dissent. — Trump v. United States
While I rarely agree with Justice Sotomayor, I agree with most of what she said here. It is this court, not the Constitution, that is granting immunity to the President.
CONCluSiON
The court claims that the separation of powers grants the President immunity, but said immunity actually prevents the judicial branch from doing what it is constitutionally bound to do. The court is ignoring the Constitution. By claiming the executive has power to evade the power of the judiciary, it is the court that is violating separation of powers.
The Supreme Court has protected criminal activity with its decision and the justices responsible should be held accountable. This court has effectively claimed that you have no redress of grievance against a president who commits a criminal act.
Big Je FF and T’Von r eady to Terrorize n F l o ffenses in 2024
THE TRAiN dAddy iS BACk with sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk. All aboard! Life is chug-a-lugging along so fast! I mean, football is only weeks away, and someone told me recently we officially are just under 100 days until Nov. 5 and the insanity of the coming presidential race.
Fun fact: my birthday is also on Election Night, Nov 5, and it’s the Big 40. Say what you will about getting older, but daggum if I don’t make 40 look good! Don’t believe me? There’s a first time for everything, and this is the first time I have ever shouted-out one of my social media accounts after 10-plus years writing for the Pulse Check out my TikTok account, where we talk Tennessee sports in detail @ZTRAIN84
Alright let’s talk sports—specifically, Titans! Before I get rambling about that, let me say this.
The Olympics are going on right now as Team USA does what it typically does: smacking other countries around and bringing a ton of medals back home. But the French, being the French, gave us some strange stuff the other night during the opening ceremony.
Dudes in drag, the mockery of Christ, shameful stuff. They had an actual child on stage to participate in the disgusting over-sexualization of dudes in drag. The organizers of the ceremony don’t hear the criticism; to them you are just a bigot if you didn’t like the drag queens mocking Christ.
The Olympics are supposed to be about sports and people from around
the world coming together to enjoy the best of the best competing and representing their countries, not an opportunity for drag queens to mock religion. But I won’t take that nonsense out on the athletes that had nothing to do with it, so bring those medals home, Team USA!
Alright, I got my complaining out of the way, so let’s talk Titans. It really is crazy that the day this issue of the Pulse hits the stands, the first Thursday of August, is the same day we get underway with the NFL Hall of Fame Game, the start of the preseason.
The game between the Bears and Texans kicks off in Canton, Ohio, on Thursday, Aug 1. ESPN will then air the Class of 2024 Hall of Fame Enshrinement the following weekend as the hall welcomes seven new players: notable names like Dwight Freeney, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis.
Tennessee Titans fans hearing those names just cringed a bit. Two of those dudes were nightmares for the Titans—Dwight Freeney as a Colt 2002–12, and Andre Johnson as a Texan 2003–14. It’s weird to think Andre was a Titan his final season in 2016, but Tennessee has a history with bringing in elite, aging receivers. Names like Randy Moss, Andre Johnson and Julio Jones have all been on the Titans’ roster late in their careers . . . and none of them really worked out.
You won’t catch me putting DeAndre Hopkins on that list, because he popped off a great season for the Titans last year and I expect him to have another good one in 2024.
Titans nation, be excited for this coming season! We have three preseason games and then, BOOM!— we put the beef in this enchilada and the 2024 NFL season officially kicks off on the road against a rookie QB and the Chicago Bears.
I am looking forward to Big Jeff Simmons taking all that frustration out on number-one pick Caleb Williams in his first NFL game. Have you all seen the pictures of Big Jeff standing next to the Ti-
tans’ second -round pick T’Vondre Sweat in training camp? Daggum! T’Von looks massive. I never expected to see Jeff looking small next to another DL player.
I know there were many skeptics out there when Tennessee drafted T’Von, but he looks great, a 6’4” dude weighting in around 350. Normally a dude like that would look flabby, but he looks solid. Those two together could be nightmares for opposing lines and QBs. If T’Von works out, that duo could be one of the best in the entire NFL. That’s not an outlandish statement given their size and strength and the fact Big Jeff already is one of the best in the game, the anchor of this Titans defense.
I know we have been focusing on this new-look offense for the Titans and I do believe they will be the backbone of this team. But don’t sleep on this defense, Titan nation. The Titans have the talent and leadership in the secondary with Sneed and Cheeto handling business, but up front there is size and power and I expect this defense to surprise many. For now, the weak point feels like it will be making tackles in the middle of the field, but if the dudes up front wreak havoc and the dudes in the back lock it down, that’s already a recipe for success for any defense!
Regarding the offense, you already know what’s up. I will certainly miss King Henry and I shed a little tear typing this up, but I am more than excited about this flashy group the national media wants to continue to disrespect.
Everything about this offense is better than last season. That includes running back! Will Levis is the wildcard, and he has been handed the keys to something special—make it work. Levis showed promise as a rookie and now he goes into Year 2 with one of the best trio of receivers in the league with Hop, Ridley and Boyd. This new-look offense is going to be faster and less predictable, and I love the options at RB with two talented all-around backs in Spears and Pollard. Most importantly, that offensive line should
be much better. I am excited to see how much better. It may be just an average line, but that beats two back-to-back seasons of the Titans having the worst OL in the NFL. I expect Chig to be a solid option at tight end here in year 3 of his career. He is quick, talented and explosive when the ball hits his hands. He is the perfect tight end for a Callahan system. Hopefully Josh Whyle takes a step forward as well. The team certainly could use the 6’7” size of Whyle at the position given Chig is a tad undersized for the more physical demands of the tight end position.
What else do you want me to say about the offense? Expect some growing pains but the talent and speed are there and I won’t be surprised if Tennessee starts the season off fast and efficient.
I was happy to hear Coach Callahan say he plans on playing his starters in the preseason. Good! I know some people hate that, but I feel like that was a problem in the Vrabel era of football: being scared to start players and then starting off slow when it mattered.
I know keeping players healthy is vital to the season, as is depth. Titan fans are aware how important staying healthy is after leading the league in injuries in consecutive seasons under Coach Vrabel. I have no real answers as to why this organization has dealt with such a bad injury history of late, but hopefully that’s a thing of the past with a new staff. Much about this team is new, and chemistry is everything in a league that goes from 0–100 in the blink of an eye. I believe Callahan understands the importance of getting these guys ready and having them play in these preseason games. I want to start the season off week 1 in Chicago looking competent and follow that up with 2 good performances at home against the Jets and Packers. A 3–0 start would be nice, but even a 2–1 start would go a long way in shutting up the national narrative that the Titans are a bottom feeder team in the NFL to begin the 2024 season. Titan Up!
PHOTO COURTESY OF TENNESSEE TITANS
the ADvent oF 401(k) plans in the early 1980s marked a significant shift in retirement savings. With the Baby Boomer generation now entering their golden years, a substantial transfer of wealth is on the horizon. A key component of this transfer involves inherited IRAs, and the rules governing these accounts have undergone considerable changes in recent years.
Inherited IRAs are retirement accounts passed down from a deceased individual to a beneficiary. Due to their tax-deferred nature and potential for substantial value, careful management is essential. Traditionally, beneficiaries were required to withdraw funds based on their life expectancy, allowing for a gradual distribution and tax burden.
In 2019, Congress passed a new law called the SECURE Act, which changed the rules around the tax treatment and requirements for inherited IRAs. The main difference here as it applies to inherited IRAs is that instead of stretching the distributions over your lifetime, everyone was required to take out all of the money over a 10-year period. Those who had an inherited IRA prior to that time still follows the old rules, but the new rule was you had to take it out over 10 years.
As is often the case with tax laws, Congress frequently passes legislation without providing
specific implementation details. The IRS is then tasked with creating regulations to clarify the law’s requirements.
Following the SECURE Act, tax professionals and financial advisors adjusted their guidance for clients inheriting retirement funds. Initially, it was understood that beneficiaries could withdraw any amount each year, as long as the entire account was depleted within 10 years. This interpretation led to various financial planning strategies.
For some who were in the peak of their earning years, it would make sense to hold off until later years, assuming they were going to retire and then they could take bigger chunks in those future years and pay lower taxes because they were in a lower tax bracket. For example, if someone makes $200,000 per year and they withdraw $100,000 from the inherited IRA, they are likely paying 24% tax on that money. If they wait until the year they retire, then that $100,000 (assuming no salary), would have them in the 12% or 22% tax bracket. It could be wise to wait in that situation. On the other hand, if the amount inherited was $100,000 and the person expects to make more money or believes tax rates will go up, then deferring until year 9 or 10 might make sense.
About a year later, the IRS came out and said they didn’t
you are a minor child, a person with certain disabilities or someone not more than 10 years younger than the person you inherited the account from, you can stick with the old rules.
t he Key ta K eaway
All of this can be confusing to the average person, so it is important to consult your financial advisor and tax professional if you have inherited an IRA in the last few years or if you
end up inheriting one in the future. Tax penalties can be expensive if you make a mistake, so get the help you need. If you are looking for an advisor to help you, feel free to reach out.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not tax, legal or financial advice. Consult a financial advisor. if you would like to connect with me, please call 615-619-6919 or email smoran@redbarnfinancial.com.
believe that Congress meant for it to be that straightforward and flexible. Their interpretation was not that you can just wait and take it out any year you want, but rather you would need to take it out ratably. Soon thereafter they changed their opinion and said they thought that it should be that if the person who passed was already taking required minimum distributions, then the beneficiary who received the money should be required to continue those RMDs, at a minimum.
Because there was confusion and the IRS had continued to receive feedback from the public for a few years, they continued to put off the requirement to take the RMDs. In other words, they weren’t going to penalize people who hadn’t taken money out.
In June, the IRS finalized the rules around inherited IRAs. They made it clear that, starting in 2025, if the person you inherited the IRA from had to take RMDs before they passed, then you must take the RMD that they would have taken when they were alive.
e xcepti O ns
Like most rules, there are exceptions to this one as well. If you are the spouse of the person who passed, you can simply roll their retirement funds into your retirement account, assuming they left you the money. Similarly, if
PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKHAIL NILOV/ PE x ELS
Dance Principles for l ife
By jennIfer durAnd
iF You know me, you know I love ballroom dancing. Over the past decade I have increased my knowledge and capabilities by learning as much as I can handle (sometimes a lot, and sometimes only a little at a time) to become better. “Better,” to me, means more graceful. More fluid. More reach. More tone. More moves. More rhythm. More musicality. More movement overall with greater ease. Communication with a partner without words. All of these are principles that can be compared to life!
“I hadn’t realized that music could unlock things in you, could transport you to somewhere even the composer hadn’t predicted. It left an imprint in the air around you, as if you carried its remnants with you when you went.” — Jojo Moyes
Some of the main principles in partner dancing are 1) You have to connect with yourself first. This means having your frame tall, shoulders engaged, poised to be able to stand still or be able to be moved. 1a) Engaging your core. Being ready to move from a centered point 2) Connection of your feet with the floor. This allows you to move more fluidly, firmly and flexibly. Feel your feet on the floor. As your feet move they remain connected to the floor for more graceful movement. 3) Connecting with your partner. Body contact with hands and arms typically. Some dances call for even more connection. 4) Eyes up. Don’t look at your feet. Keep your eyes on the horizon or on your partner. With proper connection you will feel the direction your partner is moving you.
Be like a tree: Stay grounded. Connect with your roots. Turn over a new leaf. Bend before you break. Enjoy your unique natural beauty. Keep growing. — Joanne Raptis
Other aspects to explore are the leader, the follower, extension, compression and maintaining connection. The yin/yang of extension and compression in the moment is to expand fully with one part of your body (arm stretched away from your body as far as possible) while you compress a connecting point with your partner (usually your hands, but could be another part of your body) creating a full body extension, or reach. Even with this expanded reach you should be able to maintain that position if your partner disconnects from you. That’s how important it is to be grounded with yourself first, above all.
The epiphany hit me when my instructor pointed out these elements. In order to have a more synchronistic partner experience, I first must be prepared myself. I must be poised and grounded all by myself before I can really be “at one” with a partner. Sure, we could dance together, but without being connected in the aforementioned ways first, our time together could be less flowing, restricting, shaky or altogether awful.
Other notable elements or principles of dance are body, action, space, time, energy and shape. Understanding these and how to apply them can create a work of art. Another ability to use is humor. Humor makes the experience enjoyable for both partners. If something doesn’t go as planned it is most helpful to be able to laugh it off and try again. You have a body that you must care for in order for it to function properly. There is also a framework that you try to work within to make moving easier and seamless. Dance requires action—movement. This movement takes you in many directions. Your flexibility allows you to move more effortlessly when you shift and go in another direction. Space provides the atmosphere for expression; limitless possibilities within the space you have. Space to explore, improvise and express. Time gives you the freedom to create in the moment. Energy is what moves the partnership forward or makes it stand still. Shape is what develops out of coordinated movements.
The leader leads, taking their partner with them. If the leader has no strength in his frame then there is confusion about where to go. The journey will be wobbly with misunderstanding. The follower needs to be poised to follow, as well. This means they are prepared (grounded) to dance alone but are in a strong position to be able to follow where a grounded leader will guide them. If the leader is really solid, the follower could experience something magical without even knowing what just happened! I have had a couple of leaders that were so solid in their own framework that I felt like I really was a “dancer” and was on a magical carpet ride. When I asked one of these gentlemen why dancing with him felt that way, he replied that he “discovered he only needed to be responsible for how he danced, not for how his partner danced.” So, if he just concentrated on his part the whole partner experience tended to be better. Not always magical, but definitely better. Putting yourself first doesn’t mean you don’t care about others. It means you’re smart enough to know you can’t help others if you don’t help yourself first. — Helen Barry
One of my favorite principles is maintaining connection. This requires attentiveness, focus, ability to pivot when things get off track, and flexibility. When you know the goal of keeping the connection is to maintain harmony, flow and ease of movement, it makes you want to practice these principles in order to more fully enjoy yourself and help your partner have a good, if not memorable experience. So, dance in the flow of life and live in the dance of the flow.
Jennifer d urand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook d ay Spa & g ift Shoppe; she is a certified q i g ong and Breathe Empowerment instructor, a skin care and makeup specialist. v isit nurturenook.com or facebook.com/nurturenookdayspa or by calling (615) 896-7110.
