February 2024 Murfreesboro Pulse

INSIDE

LASAGNA LOVE / BIGFOOT FINDERS / TENNESSEE PHILHARMONIC / THE WILDER BLUE / PUPPY LOVE / AND MORE! FEBRUARY 2024 | VOL. 19, ISSUE 2 | FREE

LIVING

Middle Tennessee’s Source for Art, Entertainment and Culture News

Annual Special Kids Race, March 9, Supports Mission to Help Kids

FOOD

Love Thai Sushi Serves Curries, Sushi and More at Two Locations

“Marvellous Light ” 1 PETER 2:9 K J V

Joe West transforms old barn structures into beautiful photo art through a unique light painting technique, and he gives God the credit

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Contents

ON THE COVER: “Sunset Work” courtesy of Joe West joewestphotography.com

14 “Night Shift”

FEATURES

17

THE BIGFOOT FINDERS

20 23 IN EVERY ISSUE

Local husband and wife team release their documentation of Bigfoot.

20

6 Events CALENDAR

“MARVELLOUS LIGHT” “

Joe West transforms old barn structures into beautiful photo art.

22

LASAGNA LOVE

Volunteers deliver meals and kindness in the ’Boro and beyond.

23

Storybook Breakfast; Shoe Us The Love; Tennessee Valley Winds Winter Concert; Chess Lunch; Tennessee Tempo Tryouts and more!

12 Sounds CONCERTS

MUSIC NOTES

SPECIAL KIDS RACE Annual race set for March 9, supports nonprofit’s mission.

33

CLARI PARK

What to expect as Murfreesboro development gains ground.

Tennessee Philharmonic presents Night of Jazz and Love on Feb. 13.

Texas-based pickers of The Wilder Blue

MOVIE

Night Swim

18 Living TRAVEL

Baskins Falls

NATURE NEWS

Natural Resources Volunteer Coordinator Jo VerMulm

MR. MURFREESBORO Pets can teach their humans a lot about love.

26 Food RESTAURANT Love Thai Sushi

16 Reviews 28 News

BUSINESS BUZZ

ALBUM

Malibu Blackout

Main Event, Trader Joe’s, Beef-a-Roo,

KPOT, X-Golf, WaWa, Peddler, Soul, Party Fowl and more

34 Opinion FREE YOUR CHILDREN

Parental rights do not come from government.

TECH TALK

Technology can improve customer experience.

BUSINESS MOMENTUM

Energy Management Solutions helps companies invest in efficiency.

SPORTS TALK

Titans bring in Callahan as new head coach.

MONEY MATTERS A stack of cash?

LIVING . . . WELL! Self-care is not selfish.

Contributors: Tiffany Boyd, Annabelle Cranfill, Delores Elliott, Byron Glenn, Bryce Harmon, Logan Langlois, Zach Maxfield, Destiny Mizell, Sean Moran, Jay Spight, Andrea Stockard, Meredith Thomas Publisher/Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo

Art Director: Sarah Mayo

Copy Editor: Steve Morley

Advertising: Nneka Sparks

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714 W. Main St., Suite 208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-796-6248 TO CARRY THE PULSE AT YOUR BUSINESS or to submit

letters, stories and photography: bracken@boropulse.com

The Murfreesboro Pulse

Copyright © 2024, The Murfreesboro Pulse, 714 W. Main St., #208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.

Proudly owned, operated and published the first Thursday of each month by the Mayo family; printed by Franklin Web Printing Co. The Pulse is a free publication funded by advertisers. Views expressed in the Pulse do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. ISSN: 1940-378X

OH BOY, I FEEL WHELMED! Not overwhelmed, not underwhelmed, but just the right amount of whelm do I feel.

How harmonious. Try and keep your whelm meter from going too far over or under.

This February edition of the Pulse contains so much love, it’ll just about make you sick.

We have Lasagna Love, Love Thai Sushi (next to the Love’s Travel Stop, no less), puppy love, barn love, nature love, jazz and love . . . Bigfoot love. Can’t you feel the love—love, love, love.

In seriousness, I do not use the word lightly. I enjoy many things, I like or prefer many things, but only love a few—I love God, I love my family, I love the sunshine and—in many ways involving family, tradition and excellence—I love the Super Bowl.

Enjoy Patrick Mahomes’ fourth appearance in the Super Bowl. Will he be able to get another one?

Will he ever be able to touch Brady’s record of 10 appearances? Or will the high-powered 49er offense bring another trophy to the Bay? Who’s running with me in this year’s Special Kids Race? Get registered.

I hope everyone survived the great snow and ice event of 2024. Remember, take care of your outdoor animals during those single-digit times. Get socks on your chickens and hats on your cats.

Happy Valentine’s Day to my dear wife. I love you.

Thanks for your love and devotion, your care for our children, compassion, patience and grace. Oh, what adventures may await? You do great work, too!

Murfreesboro keeps on growing and growing, sprawling out in every direction, particularly in the Medical Center Parkway, and the Veterans Parkway, areas.

The large bowling, arcade, restaurant and laser tag complex Main Event plans to open for business in February. Should be fun!

I see so many other, smaller operations open throughout Murfreesboro in not-quite-as-prominent locations, hidden in secluded corners of town and think “I wonder how they plan to advertise.” It’s indeed a booming market, but there is a lot of competition out there.

Set your brand apart—advertise in the Pulse!

Ms. Mayo and I created the Pulse not only to share interesting information about what is going on in the area with the community, but to also provide a valuable, but affordable, way for the local, independent, mom-and-pop shops in town to advertise. Each edition of the Pulse can reach a lot of area consumers.

We will keep cranking them out.

The boys and I made it to Godzilla Minus One. Really, going into it, I did not completely understand that this was a Japanese-language film. That’s alright—we are there primarily for the destruction and action. Good stuff.

Otherwise, this past month has been filled with a little art and music time with the kids, a game of chess here and there, an NHL game with Jr. (although the Predators did not feast upon duck a l’orange, as we had predicted), and trying to eat my vegetables and get my rest.

Peace, BRACKEN MAYO Publisher/Editor in Chief

EVENTS CALENDAR ››› FEBRUARY 2024 ››› BY ANDREA STOCKARD FEB. 3

States swiftly reversed its air war against the Axis powers by reevaluating both the individual agency and the structural elements that impeded the U.S. from taking the lead in the European Theater. Truxal’s provocative reinterpretation of personality, material and command organization helps to explain the success of the American war effort in Europe leading up to and after February 1944. Truxal is an American military historian, currently an adjunct professor of history at Cumberland University. Copies will be available for $40 each. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS Six local bands will compete at the third annual Murfreesboro Battle of the Bands on Saturday, Feb. 3. Held at Washington Theatre, located inside Patterson Park Community Center, doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the battle will begin at 6 p.m.

Participating bands include Aconundrum, Blue Willow, Outpost, The Feetles, Warplay and Zoe Imperium, six groups all performing original songs encompassing multiple rock subgenres. Jam out with this stellar local talent as the bands compete for the championship and a $500 cash prize. Find tickets for the 2024 Murfreesboro Battle of the Bands, for $10, at sites. google.com/view/mborobattleofthebands or for more information, find The Washington Theatre in Murfreesboro on Facebook.

FEB. 3

THROUGH FEB. 10

STORYBOOK BREAKFAST

ANASTASIA

The musical drama Anastasia continues through Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Arts Center of Cannon County (1424 John Bragg Hwy, Woodbury). Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Feb. 2, 3, 9 and 10, with an additional 2 p.m. performance on Sunday, Feb. 4. Based on the beloved animated movie from 20th Century Fox, Anastasia is both a heartwarming and heart-wrenching dive into one of history’s biggest unanswered questions: what happened to Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov? Including classic songs from the motion picture like “Journey to the Past” and “Once Upon a December,” Anastasia explores one determined girl’s journey to find home, love and family as she discovers who she was and embraces who she is meant to be. Tickets for adults are $17 with senior and student tickets at $15. Find tickets and more information at artscenterofcc.com/tickets, at the box office or by calling 615-563-2787.

THROUGH FEB. 15 SHOE US THE LOVE The Stones River chapter of the Military Officers Association of America is having a shoe drive called Shoe Us The Love to support its MTSU Scholarship Fund.

Through a partnership with funds2orgs. com, the MOAA will collect gently worn 6 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

FEB. 5 GALENTINE’S DAY

United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties announces its 5th Annual Storybook Breakfast Fundraiser. Bring your child’s favorite storybook characters to life at Overall Creek Elementary School (429 Otter Tr.) on Saturday, Feb. 3, with sessions at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Families can interact with some of the most popular storytime characters including Rainbow Fish, Madeline, Junie B. Jones, the Very Hungry Caterpillar and Pete the Cat. Participants will enjoy breakfast provided by Smoothie King and Whataburger. The day consists of Imagination Library story time, photo opportunities and other family-fun activities. All proceeds from Storybook Breakfast benefit Imagination Library recipients in Rutherford and Cannon Counties. Tickets are $15 per person with a $60 household maximum, and can be purchased at yourlocaluw.org/storybook. used shoes. The project will not only help raise money for the local scholarship fund, but the shoes will also be reused and given a second life by those in need. The organization aims to collect 2,500 pairs of gently used shoes. Boots, athletic shoes, dress shoes, sandals, work boots, cleats and even flip flops are accepted as long as they are not torn. Murfreesboro shoe dropoff locations include Murfreesboro Hyundai (1625 S. Church St.), The Shoe Fixer (1004 Memorial Blvd.), St. Clair Senior Center (325 St. Clair St.) and the Tri-Star Veterans Resource Center (439 Rice St.).

For more information on the project and the Stones River Military Officers Association of America, call 845-325-8700 or email jamesheuberger@gmail.com.

FEB. 1 BREW BUSINESS MIXER

Brew Business Networking continues the first Thursday of each month at Middle Ground Brewing Co. (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Thursday, Feb. 1, from 4:30–6 p.m. There is no cost to attend and network. Visit middlegroundbrew.com for more information.

FEB. 3 LUKE TRUXAL BOOK SIGNING Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) hosts local author Luke Truxal for a book signing on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Truxal will sign and sell copies of his book Uniting Against the Reich: The American Air War in Europe, and will also speak to the accuracy of the television series Masters of the Air, at 1 p.m. in the second-floor meeting room. Uniting Against the Reich: The American Air War in Europe addresses how the United

Celebrate your fabulous lady friends with a great evening at Murfreesboro boutique Nashboro Chic (1313 Memorial Blvd.) on Monday, Feb. 5, from 4-7 p.m. Come out for a chance to win door prizes, savor specially crafted drinks, indulge in delectable candies and receive exclusive discounts. For more information, visit nashborochic.com.

FEB. 8 HOMESCHOOL DAY: BOARD GAMES AND PUZZLES Homeschool Day will be held at Cannonsburgh Village (312 Front St.) on Thursday, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring your friends and meet new ones while playing familiar board games or working on a fun puzzle. Admission is $3 per person and registration is required. For more information or to make reservations, call 615-801-2606 or email mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov.

FEB. 10 SOKIDLIT DIFFERENCE MAKERS DAY SoKidLit is back in 2024 on Saturday, Feb. 10, this time in a partnership with the MTSU College of Education’s Difference Makers program. Young readers grades 3–5 are invited to attend this free festival to interact with a professional author, participate in fun activities involving art, literacy and math, go home with a free book by the featured author, and be inspired to be the authors of their own story—not just when they’re grown, but now. The CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 SoKidLit Difference Makers Day is from 9 a.m.–noon at the MTSU College of Education (200 N. Baird Ln.). A guardian or chaperone should accompany all children.

SoKidLit is a biennial festival begun in 2022 as a collaboration of the Rutherford Arts Alliance and its literary arts interest group, Rutherford Lit, with the MTSU College of Education and a team of volunteers including area educators, writers and reading enthusiasts. Author Kristin O’Donnell Tubb will headline the event.

Tubb is the author of The Decomposition of Jack, Luna Howls at the Moon, Zeus, Dog of Chaos, The Story Collector series, A Dog Like Daisy, John Lincoln Clem: Civil War Drummer Boy (written as E.F. Abbott) and other books. Students will also participate in activities with featured illustrator Abby Reish, teacher Nichole Bell, and other difference makers from the area. For more information on SoKidLit, visit rutherfordartsalliance.org/so-kid-lit or email sokidlit@rutherfordartsalliance.org.

FEB. 10 MID-STATE BREW CREW CHILI COOK-OFF The Mid-State Brew Crew continues its annual chili cook-off tradition on Saturday, Feb. 10. This year’s event, held at Middle Ground Brewing Co. (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) begins at 1 p.m. The chili cook-off is open to the public to sample and judge the chili. The Mid-State Brew Crew is an active community of Middle Tennessee home brewers helping one another produce better beer through experiments, collaborative brewing and member meetings. For more information on the Brew Crew, contact midstatebrewcrewboro@gmail.com.

FEB. 11 POETRY IN THE BORO The Poetry in the Boro Poetry Reading & Open Mic is Sunday, Feb. 11, at The Dapper Owl (2412 E. Main St.). Doors open 5:30 p.m. with the program at 6 p.m. and open mic to follow. The event will feature Brandon Long. Listen to some poetry or share some writing of your own.

Drip coffee and light snacks will be available at no charge. Open mic readers can share poetry or spoken word: up to two poems or four minutes. Reading a favorite poem by another writer is fine, too. Sign up for the open mic online. Readers are asked to keep their pieces “PG-13.” Long is an energetic and animated spoken-word artist who enjoys performing at open mics across Middle Tennessee. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated. For more information, visit poetryintheboro.org.

As an entrepreneurial advisor and TedX speaker, Jones-Holmes regularly presents on marketing and PR industry topics. She enthusiastically lives by the mantra of #LovingMyMinutes and is on a mission to promote brands that amplify their community. The breakfast meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7:15–9 a.m. at The Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.). For more information, email yourrutherfordcable@gmail.com.

FEB. 13 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

FEB. 16 TENNESSEE VALLEY WINDS WINTER CONCERT The Tennessee Valley Winds performs its winter concert in the Hinton Music Hall of the MTSU Wright Music Building (1439 Faulkinberry Dr.) on Friday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 p.m. TVW will be guest-conducted by renowned wind band conductor, educator and KHS America artist Joseph Hermann. The event will also feature the winner of TVW’s first high school student concerto competition, Lukas Varden. Varden is a 12th-grade clarinetist at Franklin High School, a consistent all-state musician and the principal clarinetist in the Curb Youth Symphony. Admission to the concert is free. For more information, visit tnvalleywinds.org.

FEB. 13 LOVE THY NEIGHBOR PRAYER WALK AND POTLUCK LUNCH Feed America First invites the public to its Love Thy Neighbor Prayer Walk and Potluck Lunch on Tuesday, February 13, from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. The walk will begin at 11:15 with local pastors leading attendees around the Feed America First warehouse to pray for 2024 hunger relief efforts, followed by a potluck lunch. Warehouse tours with staff will be available. Attendees are not required to bring a dish; all are welcome to drop by during their lunch break.

Those who would like to contribue a dish or restaurants that wish to donate a dish can email michelleolsen@feedamericafirst. com to sign up. For more information email julievandel@feedamericafirst.com.

FEB. 13

FEB. 15 THE CONNECTION AT CHAMPY’S

FEB. 13

Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the February 2024 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 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.

TENNESSEE TRAILS ASSOCIATION MEETING

FEB. 16

out their Christian faith and promotes the philosophy that God gave everyone their business or job to help build the Kingdom.

A complimentary lunch will be provided.

Email bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com to RSVP. Living Sent Murfreesboro meets on the second Tuesday of every month.

The Tennessee Trails Association’s monthly meeting of the Murfreesboro chapter is Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7–8 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.). For more information, visit tennesseetrails.org or text 615-971-8894.

FEB. 13

LIVING SENT

RUTHERFORD CABLE BREAKFAST MEETING

Everyone is invited to the February 2024 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Experience (521 Old Salem Rd.).

Living Sent Ministries inspires and equips business and professional leaders to live

The Rutherford Cable February Empowerment Meeting is “Branding That Leads Your Mission.” The guest speaker is Monchiere’ Jones-Holmes, founder and CEO of MOJO Marketing + PR, known for launching and amplifying brands.

 Send community event information to CONTACT@BOROPULSE.COM

The Rutherford County and Shelbyville/ Bedford County Chambers of Commerce will unite for the February Business After Hours networking event at Nearest Green Distillery (3125 US 231 N., Shelbyville).

Kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, the event will be held within Nearest Green Distillery’s Humble Baron venue. Advance registration is required for this installment of Business After Hours. Pre-registration is $15 for chamber members and $25 for non-members. Register by visiting rutherfordchamber.org and clicking on “events.”

THIRD FRIDAY COMMUNITY RHYTHM EVENT Everybody Drum Some founder Ross Lester continues the 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, Feb. 16, in the fellowship hall of St. Patrick’s Anglican Church (7103 Baker Rd.). 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 instruments will also be available for use.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 BOROPULSE.COM * FEBRUARY 2024 * 7

a curated selection of 70 remarkable small businesses. There is no admission fee. For more information, find Shabby Lane Shops – Vendor Shows on Facebook.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 Visit everybodydrumsome.com or call 615631-7458 for more information.

FEB. 16—MARCH 3

FEB. 27

JANE EYRE

Springhouse Theatre Company presents Christina Calvit’s adaptation of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre. The themes of redemption, justice and love are drawn by Jane’s reckoning with past ghosts and passion for truth in dire situations. Though faithful to the story, this adaptation also focuses on Jane’s gradual ability to shed the ghosts of her past to become a fully realized person. The show is recommended for ages 10 and up. Jane Eyre plays at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Feb. 16, 17, 23 and 24 and March 1 and 2, with a 3:30 p.m. show on Sunday, March 3. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and military, and $12 for students.

For more information, call 615-852-8499, visit springhousetheatre.com or email springhousetheatre@gmail.com.

FEB. 17 BORO PROM Get out the hairspray and slip into your snazziest attire because it’s time to resurrect that iconic mullet at the Boro Prom at Walnut House (116 N. Walnut St.) on Saturday, Feb. 17, from 7–11 p.m. Boro Prom is a totally rad experience with all profits supporting Fallen Outdoors, an organization dedicated to orchestrating outdoor adventures for veterans representing all branches of the military.

Admission is $88. For more information, visit wildgoosechaseevents.com or find the Boro Prom event on Facebook.

FEB. 20 LAWN & LANDSCAPE WEED SCIENCE SESSION Weeds are probably the most common pest of home lawns and landscapes. They compete with desirable plants for space, water and nutrients and can detract from their appearance. This free two-hour session at Lane Agri-Park Community Center Classroom (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 6 p.m., will introduce the different types of weeds, tools that will help you identify them, and various options for reducing weed populations. For more information, call 615-898-7710.

FEB. 20 RUTHERFORD CABLE 15-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Join in celebrating the accomplishments and strides made by Rutherford Cable over the past 15 years on Tuesday, Feb. 20, from 5–6:30 p.m. at the Ascension 8 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

MOLES, VOLES, ARMADILLOS AND HOLES In this free two-hour session of “Moles, Voles, Armadillos and Holes,” learn a bit about the creatures’ life cycles and habits and how to recognize the damage caused by these common digging, yard-wrecking pests. Moving out is always an option to get away from these pesky critters, but you’ll learn about less drastic control measures available to homeowners in this session at Lane Agri-Park Community Center Classroom (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. For more information, call 615-898-7710.

FEB. 24 TENNESSEE TEMPO TRYOUTS Open tryouts for the Tennessee Tempo Football Club’s Men’s Team are Saturday, Feb. 24, from 1–3 p.m. at Richard Siegel Soccer Complex, Field 1 (515 Cherry Lane Dr.). Tryouts also take place every Monday in March. Registration is $50.

The Tennessee Tempo fields teams from its U6 (under 6 years of age) division up to its professional team in the United Premiere Soccer League. For more information, visit tenneesseetempofc.com/tryouts.

Saint Thomas Rutherford McDonald Room (1700 Medical Center Pkwy.). Hear from Terri Sterling Donovan, Rutherford Cable’s first president, while also honoring all past presidents. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and enjoy light bites and libations. The cost to attend is $25. For more information, visit rutherfordcable.org.

FEB. 22

lectures, along with many vendor booths, the diversity and scope of the Southern Equine Expo attracts horse enthusiasts to Middle Tennessee from across the nation.

Experts share their knowledge on gaited horses, liberty training, mules, riding fearless, equine business, trail riding, competing in the ring, bits, saddles and more. For more information, call 615-606-2112 or visit southernequineexpo.com.

SMOKIN’ BARREL BENEFIT FOR KYMARI HOUSE

FEB. 24–25

Indulge in a night of refined spirits and philanthropy at the Smokin’ Barrel Bourbon Tasting Benefit to raise funds for Kymari House on Thursday, Feb. 22, from 6–9 p.m. Sample fine bourbon and whiskey from around the world while enjoying expertly paired bites at Copper Ridge Event Venue (3597 Betty Ford Rd.). Kymari House is a safe, conflict-free environment where children and parents can be together when the family structure is challenged. For tickets and more information, visit givebutter.com/smokinbarrel.

MURFREESBORO EXOTIC PET EXPO The Murfreesboro Exotic Pet Expo returns to the Mid TN Expo Center (1660 Middle Tennessee Blvd.) on Saturday and Sunday Feb. 24 and 25 for a weekend full of reptiles, small mammals, parrots, pet supplies, feeders and more. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 each day. For more information, find an event page for the Murfreesboro TN Exotic Pet Expo on Facebook.

FEB. 23–25

FEB. 24

SOUTHERN EQUINE EXPO

SHABBY LANE WINTER MARKET

The Southern Equine Expo returns to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304B W. Thompson Ln.) on Feb. 23–25 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. to begin their second decade.

The goal is to provide a valuable experience for a wide spectrum of horse enthusiasts.

With over 100 clinics, demonstrations and

Experience a day of shopping in Murfreesboro on Saturday, Feb. 24, at Lane Agri-Park Community Center (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Be among the first 200 adult shoppers and receive fabulous free gifts while pursuing

THROUGH APRIL VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties has announced the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program for the upcoming tax season through April 13, 2024. The United Way VITA program is an IRS-supported tax preparation service, through which trained volunteers prepare taxes at no cost for qualifying individuals and families. The VITA program, along with My Free Taxes, connects community members with eligible credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, a benefit for working people with at least one dependent that can mean more resources for essential needs. In-person appointments will be available at the Boys & Girls Club of Smyrna and Patterson Park Community Center. Additional mobile VITA sites will be available in Cannon County, Motlow’s Smyrna campus and the MTSU Jones College of Business. For more information, email haley.adams@yourlocaluw.org or visit yourlocaluw.org/vita.

MONDAYS 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 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 CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

 Send community event information to CONTACT@BOROPULSE.COM

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

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We

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for Veterans and MTSU Students

1994

Veteran Owned & Operated

525 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro

615-849-1994

Referrals!

ANYWHERE IN THE U.S.

26 Sitz Dr., Manchester

931-954-6121

HELPING

An exquisite mobile beverage and libation service that adds a bit of fun to any party

HOMEOWNERS

OWNERS

OPEN NEW

Sherris & Jeff Brown

DOORS FOR ALMOST

20 YEARS! doubleoaknvine.com

Contact: 615-314-1492 | doubleoaknvine@gmail.com

K E L LY G A F F OR D REALTOR® License #291515

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Reliant Realty, Murfreesboro

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640 BROADMOR ST., SUITE 100 MURFREESBORO, TN 37129 CELL: 615.828.1645 OFFICE: 615.617.3551

artisansgranite.com 1018 SEALS WAY, MURFREESBORO | 615-907-0390

Company License 261458

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 week. Those attending may bring a board and a clock if they can, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.

reserved for members to set up one-onones and socialize. For more information on the networking event or directions, visit connectnashvillenetworking.com/events.

SATURDAYS GLOWFORGE ORIENTATION

TUESDAYS TINYTEC 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 winter 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.

WEDNESDAYS 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 Rutherford County Veterans Community Center (439 Rice 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.

WEDNESDAYS BORO 2 SQUARE RUNNING GROUP 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.

WEDNESDAYS 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 it is not just for girls. Pre-register by calling 615-225-8312.

10 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

FEB. 26 MURFREESBORO CHESS LUNCH Who wants to play a game of chess? Community members interested in the initiative of teaching others the game of chess, helping raise funds and interest for getting the game in the schools, sharing ideas on how chess can benefit others, involving their organization in promoting the game, 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, Feb. 26. For more information, email rmitchell@rutherfordcountytn.gov or call 615-426-7373.

THURSDAYS POKER AT PANTHER CREEK The Murfreesboro Poker League hosts free games of Texas Hold’em each Thursday beginning at 6 p.m. at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). Anyone can join during the first round, even after the game has begun, until after the break, when the elimination round starts. Players can receive additional chips with the purchase of food and drink. The winner of the nightly game receives a $50 gift card at Panther Creek and points for league champs are tallied by placement.

For more information, find a Murfreesboro Poker League Facebook Group or contact Jeff Pooley at 615-877-4842.

THURSDAYS 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 winter science and perform an experiment or make a craft item. There is no cost to attend. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615225-8312.

THURSDAYS MAD COW TREK CLUB The Mad Cow Trek Club running group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Pan-

ther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). The group embarks on a route of 4–8 miles and welcomes runners of all paces and abilities. Affiliated with the Mad Cow Running Company in McMinnville, the Trek Club hosts races and free get-togethers to share its love of running with the community. 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.

FRIDAYS C3 NETWORKING AT PROHIBITION HOME BREWING C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Prohibition Home Brewing (906 Ridgley Rd.) 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.

FRIDAYS 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

GlowForge Orientation is held at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) on Saturdays at 1 p.m. All ages are welcome; a parent/guardian must accompany makers under 13 at all times. Orientation covers the basics of the GlowForge laser cutter, including best practices, basic procedures, policies and an overview of the software. This orientation is required for using the TEC’s GlowForge. Advance registration is required by emailing info-tec@rclstn.org. There is no cost to attend. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.

SATURDAYS HISTORICAL SOCIETY 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.

SUNDAYS 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.

SUNDAYS 3D PRINTER ORIENTATION The Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) hosts its 3D Printer Orientation on Sundays at 1:30 p.m. All ages are welcome; a parent/guardian must accompany users under 13 at all times. Orientation covers the basics of 3D printing, including best practices, basic procedures, policies, and an overview of the software. This orientation is required for using the TEC’s 3D printers. There is no cost to attend. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.

A 5-­DAY SALE at ALL GREAT ESCAPE STORES from WED, 1/31 -­ SUN, 2/4!

50% OFF BACK ISSUE COMIC BOOKS (Priced in 2022 or before) Date on Great Escape tag indicates that this has been tagged in 2022 or before-­ so it’s 50% OFF!

Also: 50% OFF all used HARDCOVERS,TRADE PAPERBACKS,

tags)! Sale also includes ALL 49¢ SALE COMICS and GRAB BAGS!

123 E. MAIN STREET MURFREESBORO

Also on SAT, 2/3 at our NASHVILLE & LOUISVILLE stores ONLY:

615-556-1525

$1 COMICS BLOWOUT SALE In our Special Events Room: THOUSANDS of PREMIUM $1 COMICS (regularly $2.99-­$9.99)-­

many of which are in LIKE-­NEW CONDITION-­ and many are BAGGED & BOARDED-­ making them EVEN BIGGER BARGAINS FOR YOUR MONEY! ALL GREAT ESCAPE LOCATIONS: WEST NASHVILLE (Near Pep Boys) 5400 Charlotte Ave. 615-­385-­2116 OPEN: Wed-­Sun 12-­7 CLOSED: Mon-­Tues contactus@thegreatescapeonline.com

NEAR RIVERGATE (In Madison) 105 Gallatin Rd. N. 615-­865-­8052 OPEN: Wed-­Sun 12-­7 CLOSED: Mon-­Tues thegreatescapemadison@gmail.com

MURFREESBORO, TN (Jackson Heights Plaza) 810 NW. Broad St., STE 202 615-­900-­1937 OPEN: Wed-­Sun 12-­7 CLOSED: Mon-­Tues thegreatescapemurfreesboro@gmail.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY (By Kmart, near mall) 2945 Scottsville Rd. 270-­782-­8092 OPEN: Wed-­Sun 12-­7 CLOSED: Mon-­Tues thegreatescapebg@gmail.com

LOUISVILLE, KY (In The Highlands) 2433 Bardstown Rd. 502-­456-­2216 OPEN: Wed-­Sun 12-­7 CLOSED: Mon-­Tues thegreatescapelouisville@gmail.com

WE BUY AND SELL GUITARS LESSONS WITH THE BEST TEACHERS ROCK SCHOOL FOR KIDS

FORREST YORK

Murfreesboro’s Guitar Setup and Repair Expert

FORRESTYORKGUITARS.COM

GUITAR REPAIR | MODIFICATIONS | PICKUPS INSTALLED | STRING CHANGE | CLEANING

*Sale excludes new comics, hardbacks & trades, items on hold and online orders. Discount determined by date on Great Escape tag; not date of publication.

P EET T 220 0C A T S! PET CA CATS! AT TS

*Limited to one 5 free item deal per person. Regular store stock not included in this promotion.

517 Cason Lane Meowfreesboro, TN

CONCERTS THURS, 2/1

Jeff Lysyczyn

LIVE MUSIC IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Tony and the Attitude Band

HANK’S HONKY TONK

BORO BOURBON & BREWS

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Open Mic Night with Toast

SUN, 2/11

Sara Simmons; Jeff Caron Band

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Angela DeBoer

Emily Miller

Shane & the Money Makers

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Randy and Friends

Izzy Grace

Sir Anthony

Miguel Alvarado with MTSU Jazz Combo 1

FRI, 2/2

BURGER BAR

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC SMYRNA VFW POST

TUES, 2/6

BOURBON & BREWS

Jasco

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Taylor Hughes

HANK’S HONKY TONK HOP SPRINGS

Blues Jam

SAT, 2/17

MTSU Chinese Music Ensemble, Mingzheng Chinese Music School and other artists

Izzy Grace

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

BOURBON & BREWS

GRINDSTONE COWBOY

MON, 2/12

HANK’S HONKY TONK

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Alex Jordan

Jeff Lysyczyn

Memory Train

Delyn Christian; Leigh Hutchins Trio

Craig Campbell

BOURBON & BREWS

Marco Granados

BURGER BAR

SEASONS

HAPPY’S SPORTS LOUNGE

2Country4Nashville

HARVESTER

BOURBON & BREWS

Graham Anthem Band Bob Marley tribute with Austin Grimm

WED, 2/7 The Hammonds

HANK’S HONKY TONK

HOP SPRINGS

Kenna Elpers

JACK’S PLACE

Muddy Boots

The Wilder Blue; Sam Stoane Tony Castellanos

MAYDAY BREWERY

Joey Fletcher

PUCKETT’S

Scott Southworth & the Honky Tonk Anonymous SEASONS OF MURFREESBORO

Cooter River Band

SMYRNA VFW POST

THURS, 2/8 BOURBON & BREWS

Kyle Elliott

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Cary & Sherrie Watson

Cooter River Band

BOURBON & BREWS BURGER BAR

Jeff Lysyczyn

HANK’S HONKY TONK

CITY CAFE

Bailey Rose; Jack Finley Band

HANK’S HONKY TONK

New Binge

Jeff Lysyczyn

Everette Brown Trio

American Pie; In-Cahoots HAPPY’S

Haden Carpenter Band HOP SPRINGS

Steady Rotation; Yonder Grove; Mad Cabbage MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO.

Miguel Dakota PUCKETT’S

Dark Waters Project SEASONS

Rockin Country

HAPPY’S

HOP SPRINGS

BOURBON & BREWS

Delyn Christian Joe Hooper SEASONS

2Country4Nashville THE VIEW AT THE FOUNTAINS

TN Philharmonic Orchestra

WED, 2/14 BOURBON & BREWS

BOURBON & BREWS

Presley Free

BURGER BAR

HOP SPRINGS

The Sweet Lillies; Justin Bowman & the Drifters Jeff Lysyczyn

Wind Ensemble PUCKETT’S

Matt Burke & Friends

SUN, 2/18 BOURBON & BREWS

Glen Wagner; Southbound Crows

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Brooklyn Ray; Justin Dukes HAPPY’S

Down South Band JACK’S PLACE

Tony Castellanos

MAYDAY BREWERY

Miguel Dakota

MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO.

Tony Hartman

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Hunter McDonald PUCKETT’S

Cole Ritter & the Night Owls SEASONS

Echo

SMYRNA VFW POST

Shane & the Money Makers

SAT, 2/24

BOURBON & BREWS

Josiah Rodda

Zone Status

MON, 2/19

HOP SPRINGS

Mixtape

BOURBON & BREWS

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Bailey Hyneman

HANK’S HONKY TONK

PUCKETT’S

Robyn Taylor

SMYRNA VFW POST

SEASONS

Oliver Pigott

Carson Mac; Cooter River Band GRINDSTONE COWBOY

HANK’S HONKY TONK PUCKETT’S

Jeff Lysyczyn

The Lilliston Effect

Jasco

MTSU Symphony Orchestra

Open Mic Night with Toast

Karli & James

Randy and Friends

Chazz Wesley

TUES, 2/20

Dillard and Southern Express

SMYRNA VFW POST

SUN, 2/25

Will King

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC SEASONS

SEASONS

MTSU Wind Ensemble; Symphonic Band

SMYRNA VFW POST

FRI, 2/16

WED, 2/21

Pontiac Alley

Jack Barganier

MAYDAY BREWERY

Jasco Duende PUCKETT’S

Los Swamp Monsters Zone Status

Shane & the Money Makers BOURBON & BREWS CARMEN’S TAQUERIA

Jeff Lysyczyn CITY CAFE

Everette Brown Trio

THURS, 2/15

BOURBON & BREWS

Taylor Hughes

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Jesse Black

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Ari Cohen

BOURBON & BREWS

HANK’S HONKY TONK HAPPY’S

MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO.

Nicholas Johnson PUCKETT’S

Golden Soul Revue SEASONS

Stereo Hype

SMYRNA VFW POST

12 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

2Country4Nashville BOURBON & BREWS

BURGER BAR

HANK’S HONKY TONK

HAPPY’S SPORTS LOUNGE

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

HOP SPRINGS

Muddy Boots

Jeff Lysyczyn

Anna LaPrad & Cliff Waddell

Izzy Grace

Drake Wallace Memorial

Summon the Moon BOURBON & BREWS

Scott Hogue

HANK’S HONKY TONK

The O’Donnells

HOP SPRINGS

Blues Jam

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Deanna Little; Will Perkins

MON, 2/26 BURGER BAR

Jeff Lysyczyn

PANTHER CREEK BREWS

TUES, 2/27

PUCKETT’S

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Maddie Rose

BOURBON & BREWS

Short Creek Revival Delyn Christian

JACK’S PLACE

THURS, 2/22

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

MAYDAY BREWERY

Webb Berringer

SEASONS

Tony Hartman

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

Tennessee Valley Winds PUCKETT’S

LynnMarie & E3 SEASONS

Wyld Fire

BOURBON & BREWS

Drake Wallace Memorial Composition Recital

HANK’S HONKY TONK

2Country4Nashville

Silent Ruckus

HOP SPRINGS

WED, 2/28

GRINDSTONE COWBOY

Glenn Brown

Gyasi; Skylar Love Carter’s Chord

CARMEN’S TAQUIERIA 206 W. Northfield Blvd.

CEDAR GLADE BREWS 906 Ridgely Rd. CITY CAFE 113 E. Main St. GRINDSTONE COWBOY 115 N. Main St., Eagleville HANK’S HONKY TONK 2341 Memorial Blvd.

HOP SPRINGS 6790 John Bragg Hwy.

HOP SPRINGS

Blues Jam

BURGER BAR 1850 Old Fort Pkwy.

HAPPY’S

Krystal King; Whiskey Smoke

Lexy Dunn

BORO BOURBON & BREWS 124 N. Maple St.

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Everette Brown Trio

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Krystal King

If You Go

HAPPY’S SPORTS LOUNGE 302 W. Main St.

CITY CAFE

MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO.

Tony Castellanos

MON, 2/5

The Roads Below

BOURBON & BREWS

BURGER BAR

The Royal Hounds

Justin Jones

HAPPY’S

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

HOP SPRINGS MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

The Hammonds; Cooter River Band

Randy and Friends

SMYRNA VFW POST

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Blues Jam

HANK’S HONKY TONK

Adam Clark

Tawnya Reynolds; Mikki Zip Band

Crosstown

Everette Brown Trio

MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO.

Johnny Neel & the Criminal Element; Zentrance

Andy Liter

CITY CAFE

Jeff Lysyczyn

Jesse Morgan

Tony Castellanos

The Howlin Embers

BOURBON & BREWS

Roland Justice

BURGER BAR

HANK’S HONKY TONK

JACK’S PLACE

THE BORO

SUN, 2/4

CEDAR GLADE BREWS

FRI, 2/23

THE BORO

SMYRNA VFW POST

Songwriter Night with Billy Plant

BOURBON & BREWS

BOROPULSE.COM/CALENDAR

BOURBON & BREWS

Jeff Leeson; Levi Mabe

SAT, 2/10

Shane & the Money Makers

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC

HANK’S HONKY TONK

SAT, 2/3

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA

Open Mic Night with Toast

PUCKETT’S

FRI, 2/9

The Spyders

HANK’S HONKY TONK

TUES, 2/13

Shane & the Money Makers BOURBON & BREWS

Jeff Lysyczyn

PANTHER CREEK BREWS

Carson Mac

SMYRNA VFW POST

 FULL CALENDAR ONLINE AT

BOURBON & BREWS HANK’S HONKY TONK

Charlie Byrd

JACK’S PLACE 114 E. College St. MAYDAY BREWERY 521 Old Salem Rd. MIDDLE GROUND BREWING CO. 2476 Old Fort Pkwy.

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING 1439 Faulkinberry Dr. PANTHER CREEK BREWS 714 W. Main St. PUCKETT’S GROCERY 114 N. Church St. SEASONS OF MURFREESBORO 2227 Old Fort Pkwy.

SMYRNA VFW POST 10157 Old Nashville Hwy. Smyrna THE BORO BAR & GRILL 1211 Greenland Dr. THE VIEW AT THE FOUNTAINS 1500 Medical Center Pkwy.

WASHINGTON THEATRE 521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

HERALDING THE DRAGON



Celebration of the Lunar New Year

KITCHEN OPEN LATE

Must Be 21 & UP

A special musical celebration of the Lunar New Year featuring a dragon parade performed by the MTSU Chinese Music Ensemble, visiting artists from China, the Middle Tennessee Mingzheng Chinese Music School, and MTSU international students.

Open Daily: Noon–3 a.m.

Great beer, great food, great folks...

MONDAYS

Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024,

TUESDAYS

FREE SIDE WITH BURGER

Hinton Music Hall Wright Music Building at MTSU

2-4-1 DRAFTS + TALLBOYS

UNTIL 10 P.M.

Reception at 2 p.m.

(in the Hinton Hall lobby)

Concert 3 p.m.

Free admission

NOON TO 1 A.M.

WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Presented by

KARAOKE!!

9 P.M. UNTIL 2:30 A.M.

0124-2710 / Middle Tennessee State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. See our full policy at mtsu.edu/iec.

903 GUNNERSON AVE. • MURFREESBORO • 615-203-3897

WHY CHOOSE F&M BANK Flexible | Local | Smart

As the banking world continues its move towards automation, F&M Bank remains focused on personal service & the customers we serve.

802 Memorial Blvd Murfreesboro, TN 615-867-9728

NMLS #518158

|

Stacy Vincent VP, Commercial Lender NMLS #175657 615.545.3968

Grady Payne Branch Manager | Lender

NMLS #1400164 615.260.2261

TEXAS-BASED PICKERS OF THE WILDER BLUE TRAVEL TO HOP SPRINGS FEB. 2 WITH TIGHT HARMONIES AND SKILLED STRING PICKIN’, The Wilder Blue travel from a lively, rollicking bluegrass sound to simpler pop tunes to chilling and sparse numbers, keeping a vintage vibe alongside a thumping bass as they sing of the old days, adventures on the road and love.

Priding themselves on gripping storytelling and gorgeous five-part harmonies, The Wilder Blue—a Texas-based group fronted by Zane Williams— makes a Hop Springs stop on Friday, Feb. 2. They know it’s “tough makin’ music in the money biz,” but old guitar pickers keep playing it ’cause they can.

The Wilder Blue recently released its third full-length album, which contains a “Seven Bridges Road” collaboration with Luke Combs.

Find tickets for the Feb. 2 show on Ticketweb. Hop Springs is located at 6790 John Bragg Hwy. The concert kicks off at 8 p.m.; Sam Stoane opens.

MUSIC NOTES TENNESSEE PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS NIGHT OF JAZZ AND LOVE ON FEB. 13 THE TENNESSEE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WILL PRESENT its Valentine’s concert, “A Night of Jazz and Love,” on Tuesday, Feb. 13.

Held at the View at Fountains, the evening will feature celebrated jazz vocalist Julia Rich. Rich, who spent 25 years touring with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, leans towards the big-band forms of the 1940s and ’50s but has also written numerous tunes of her own and has released five full-length solo albums.

The Feb. 13 concert begins at 7 p.m. and continues the TPO’s 42nd season of enchanting melodies and symphonic grandeur. The View at Fountains at Gateway is located at 1500 Medical Center Pkwy. Find tickets for the concert and more information on the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra at tnphil.org.

How’d that extra piece of pie work out for ya?

Cardio Kickboxing

$69 PER MONTH Unlimited Attendance, Bag Gloves

Please call us to try a free class.

MUST REGISTER BY FEBRUARY 28TH



7



HAPPY HOUR DAILY, 3–6 P.M.

Burn 800 calories an hour while learning simple and effective self defense!

Offering cardio kickboxing classes at 5:30 AM, 9 AM, and 5 PM! NORTH MURFREESBORO | 1820 NW Broad Street | 615-893-6003 SOUTH MURFREESBORO | 1911 Business Campus Drive | 615-890-6755

B S KO N L I N E . C O M

14 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

Reviews

MALIBU BLACKOUT The Nights Were Wrapped in Gold

As a Middle Tennessee-based band unafraid to crank it up, the hard-edged riff-rock quartet Malibu Blackout completed a machinehum-loud full-length debut with the late 2023 release of The Nights Were Wrapped in Gold, amplifying The Black Keys’ power-duo sound times two while starting to drift into the electrifying territory of The Raconteurs.

The uniqueness of the album lies in everyone seemingly crowding the mics, all with brutalizing drive in a dense wall-of-dudesound while lyrically regretting a breakup.

The power players’ duetting dynamics reach a crescendo, possibly accidentally, in unexpected parts of the song at times (making

16 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

ALBUM for a good Rage Against the Machine-type overdrive in “Momento,” at least).

More showboating from Malibu Blackout—Adam Blum (guitar), Chris Husak (vocals/drums), Cory Johnson (vocals/guitar) and David “Woody” Woods (bass)—is established in a roll-call-solo section of the coincidentally titled introductory track “Watch Yo Step,” with all band members appearing to energetically join together on vocals, performing seemingly non-sequitur lyrics.

The dudes spread out into a Westernstyled rockabilly sound in “Big Sky.” As a dark-toned rockabilly rhythm holds up the riff-rock drive, a rasping, yelling vocal rises up with grim imagery like Worn soles, cracked palms pester me now / High noon, buzzards circling around.

On the other hand, “Void” taps into an upbeat dance punk intention, pop-rocking heartbreak’s guilt with the careful, blameavoidant lyric You won’t like this forever / I just want to keep you safe / I just want to relate / We’ll always be bound together / There’s not just one of us to blame, which saves face, showing wisdom in them bones as the world genuinely and complexly works in a way where it’s somehow possible for all of those emotions (guilt, pop-rocking, heartbreak and continuing a different form of love) to flood together. It’s quite a testament masked here.

Find Malibu Blackout’s The Nights Were Wrapped in Gold at malibublackout.bandcamp.com. Find more on the band and social media links at linktr.ee/malibublackout.

— BRYCE HARMON

MOVIE NIGHT SWIM DIRECTOR Bryce McGuire STARRING Wyatt Russell,

Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle

RATED PG-13

With movies, January is notable for two things: the announcement of the Oscar nominations, and studios dumping their poorly screen-tested genre fare into theaters.

Occasionally, the latter might mean you’ll get a gem, but more often you get Night Swim.

The gimmick of Night Swim has potential to be either so dumb it’s awesome, or so dumb it’s just dumb. Basically, pool’s haunted.

Co-writer and director Bryce McGuire got the chance to adapt his short film of the same name into a feature-length thriller. With the aid of two talented leads and genuine competency behind the camera, he somehow manages to save his silly premise from sinking to the depths of dumbness. Unfortunately, neither talent nor skill can elevate it beyond the very standard haunting flick.

When the Waller family buys a new house, they are excited to try out the new pool.

Ray Waller (Russell) is a former MLB third baseman who had to retire early after being diagnosed with MS The pool will surely help with his low-impact physical therapy.

What the Wallers don’t know is that the pool has a long history of people drowning or disappearing in it. While the kids, Izzy and

Elliot, start seeing pool ghouls in and around the pool, Ray starts to make a miraculous recovery. Eve Waller (Condon) finally starts to suspect that something may be up with her kids, her husband, and the pool. But not before having a housewarming pool party!

If my synopsis sounds a little cynical, it’s because it’s difficult not to be when it comes to such a specific and stationary haunting.

(Just stay away from the pool.) Surprisingly, Night Swim finds a graceful, if not lasting, solution. The ghost pool conjures objects that attract people to it, even against their better judgment. It’s the second half of the film, in which people constantly return to the “Death Pool: The Pool That Eats People,” which starts to become not only unbelievable but laborious, and the PG-13 rating assures you that it will stay, disappointingly, on the rails.

Whereas a short film can coast on vibes alone, a feature needs to tell a story with a conclusion. Thus, the final act is bogged down with every boilerplate haunting trope in the book, all to get to an ending that makes about as much sense as a haunted pool does. Ultimately, Night Swim should’ve stayed a short film. — JAY SPIGHT

BOOK

Sasquatches in the South?

R.D. and Brenda Rhodes release their documentation of Bigfoot in The Bigfoot Finders

BY DESTINY MIZELL A TENNESSEE COUPLE SHOWCASED “documented, overwhelming evidence to support the existence of Bigfoot” in a Murfreesboro press conference in January.

After a year of spending multiple hours in the woods each week, snapping photos on their Samsung Galaxies and investing around $7,000 out of their own pockets, R.D. Rhodes Jr. and his wife, Brenda, are ready to present their findings through the release of R.D.’s book The Bigfoot Finders.

“The world simply deserves to know the truth about Bigfoot,” Rhodes said.

In the book, Rhodes gives a brief history of sasquatches, counters doubts, and shares the couple’s photos and experiences across the South. Though the majority of their photos were shot in Tennessee, the couple said they have collected photos from Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi as well.

“In the last year alone, we have taken over 60 pictures of Bigfoot in over 20 different locations in five different states,” Rhodes said.

R.D. Rhodes Jr. says that what makes The Bigfoot Finders unique is that the couple repeatedly captures photos, rather than photographing one-time (and therefore more debatable) occurrences.

During the conference, Rhodes explained that the “real Bigfoot finding” takes place after the fact, when they get home and zoom in on the photos they collected in the woods.

“Only about one out of 10 Bigfoot that we photograph do we see until after we’ve taken the photograph,” Rhodes said. “Most of them we smell them, we hear them, we know it’s a good area and we start taking pictures.”

Once they zoom in and feel they have collected something supernatural, they feel both frightened and exhilarated.

However, for Rhodes, he was once more frightened than exhilarated by these alleged encounters.

His infatuation with Bigfoot began in the summer of 1982, when he was a teenage boy on his grandparents’ property in Lascassas, Tennessee.

One windy day when he was standing alone on a freshly dug pond bank, he believes that he saw a sasquatch—measuring over seven feet tall—emerge from the woods. He said he “was frozen in fear, wonder and amazement.”

After an understood nonverbal agreement to leave each other be, Rhodes sprinted to the safe indoors to share the encounter with his grandparents, who showed no surprise and believed him.

In April 1985, Rhodes said he had another sasquatch interaction. One quiet night he and a good friend decided to go night fishing on the east fork of the Stones River in Lascassas. His friend made a campfire and the pair decided to try their hand at catching some catfish. Then, out of nowhere, Rhodes said they heard an enormous, booming splash in the water. Once his friend turned on his flashlight and faced it toward the water, Rhodes said that they witnessed a pair of glowing crimson eyes leering back at them. Trying to reason with the situation and calm his friend, Rhodes said that it must have been a cow because they often came to the river to drink. It became evident to Rhodes that the creature was not a cow, but a sasquatch. The calm fishing night had turned into an event that left them both stricken.

Not sure what to do afterward, Rhodes said he bottled up his feelings until his forties.

Thirty years later, Rhodes began researching Bigfoot. He made his peace and decided to pursue the mysterious creature.

Luckily for him he met Brenda, who cherishes all things paranormal and supernatural. They decided to embark on the Bigfoot-finding journey in 2023.

The couple will be releasing a step-by-step guide on how to photograph Bigfoot in the future. They encourage others to proceed with caution if they go searching, especially if they have children with them.

“I do not recommend anyone going out looking for them like we do,” R.D. said. “I believe they [sasquatches] are like people; some are nice and wouldn’t hurt a fly, others are mean.”

The couple does not condone trying to capture or harm a sasquatch in any way.

“There is a human element to these beings and to do so would be completely unethical, immoral and inhumane,” he said.

He goes into further depth about the “human element” to these cryptids and writes more about their characteristics and habits in The Bigfoot Finders.

“The book was an interesting read, I had so much fun finding out more about Bigfoot,” reader Brenda Greene said. “Definitely worth the time spent on it.”

The Bigfoot Finders can be purchased on Amazon, Lulu, Goodreads, Google Play and Kobo in paperback, hardcover and ebook.

“Sighting in Jackson, Tenn. 10-21-23”

“Peeking through brush”

The couple can be reached through thebigfootfind ers.com or at thebigfootfinder2@gmail.com. The Rhodeses are also active on YouTube and TikTok. BOROPULSE.COM * FEBRUARY 2024 * 17

Living

 TRAVEL

If You Go Baskins Creek Falls Baskins Creek Trailhead, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Baskins Creek Trail

Secluded Smoky Mountain waterfall trek covers variety of terrain STORY BY BRACKEN MAYO PHOTOS BY SARAH MAYO

I HAVE BEEN ON DOZENS of Tennessee hiking trails, some quite desolate and nearly devoid of other human traffic, but the Baskins Creek Falls Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park marked the first one I can recall where my group encountered a grand total of zero other hikers.

Multiple travel and hiking websites refer to Baskins Creek as a “popular trail,” so evidently plenty of other nature lovers do embark upon the pathway, but a single group of hikers seemed to have the trail to themselves on a sunny and pleasant December day.

One of the many, many scenic and secluded trails within the National Park, those who travel the walkway may get to experience a significant climate change over the 3-mile out-and-back Baskins Creek Trail.

18 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

Baskins Creek Trailhead sits on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a roadway loop within the national park, not far from Gatlinburg. The Roaring Fork, however, is only open to vehicular traffic April 10 through Nov. 30 each year. So when visiting Baskins Falls Trail outside of this window of time, hikers can access the trail from the Rainbow Falls/Bullhead Parking Lot B on Cherokee Orchard Road, just before it crosses the Roaring Fork Nature Trail.

To get to the trailhead, hikers can then walk up the paved Roaring Fork road— steeply uphill, but only for about two tenths of a mile. Setting out on the dirt trail, the Baskins Creek Trail begins uphill, over some rooty terrain and peaks upon a hill, the early afternoon sun at this point beaming directly upon the hikers. (Some hikers point out

that the absence of tall trees on the hilltop resulted from the effects of the 2016 wildfires in the park.) Visibility is high at this vantage point on the crest of the hill among the small pine trees and brush. Enjoy the stunning views before the trail subsequently heads down the other side.

One hiker in our party said it felt like it was just him and the birds on this quiet trail.

The ground displays a variety of interesting-looking rocks, some sparkly, white, geode-type ones that would likely unveil some spectacular, vibrant colors if busted open. Other stones have a reddish-claybrown look to them.

The trail leads hikers down to a marshy creek; some small logs have been pushed over the creek, making a surprisingly sturdy bridge.

The forest contains a different terrain and environment here, down below. This portion exhibits a much shadier, wetter, cooler and rockier vibe than the sunny hilltop.

The trail follows alongside Baskins Creek, continuing to head downhill, at times, the rushing creek totally hidden by the lush rhododendrons. It levels out for a while, but then turns back downhill, so the hikers know the return is primarily going to be an uphill climb.

Continuing to head down some rocky ground, visitors can look to the left and see Baskins Falls spewing forth out of a huge

rock wall face.

Hikers must carefully navigate the final steps down some steep, challenging rocks to arrive at the base of the falls.

“The rocky scramble to the base is very tricky. Still, it remains one of my favorite hidden gems in the park’s most crowded area,” hiker Daniel Worley reported after a 2023 visit. “The falls are gorgeous and overlooked by the crowds heading to Rainbow and Grotto [other nearby waterfalls].”

Not far from the waterfall, a spur trail leads to a cemetery, which could make a roughly third-of-a-mile side trip before rejoining the main trail.

Overall, Baskins Falls Trail is simple to follow, since it doesn’t contain any offshoots or trail crossings and doesn’t really require any markers (other than the cemetery spur).

It remains fairly rustic along the way without the constructed creek crossing bridges or staircases present on many trails.

One hiker dubbed it “the non-gentrified trail of the Great Smoky Mountains,” saying the “trail was rough and not as maintained as many others.

“The uphill return adds some difficulty,” the visitor added.

Tennessee waterfall buffs have a good one to take in with Baskins Falls. Set out any time; even the winter months, which, despite their shorter daylight hours and occasional snow and ice, still have plenty of suitable days to traverse a Tennessee hiking trail.

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Preserving Natural Treasures Murfreesboro Natural Resources Volunteer Coordinator Jo VerMulm encourages community to help keep parks clean

BY ASHLEIGH NEWNES IT’S NO SECRET that urban natural areas face various challenges. Our parks in Murfreesboro are no exception. Someone well-versed in these challenges and the collaborative effort required to address them is Murfreesboro Natural Resources Volunteer Coordinator Jo VerMulm.

Observing the intrusion of trash in the Murfree Springs Wetlands, Jo and her husband, Dave, felt compelled to shift from concerned observers to passionate volunteers.

“It’s a really special place,” VerMulm said regarding the unique charm of Murfree Springs. “The variety of wildlife you can see there, right downtown, is remarkable.”

The wetlands have several storm drains where water—and the accompanying trash— from our city flows directly into the habitat.

Although the Natural Resources team, led by Kristin Hopkins, was already working hard to reduce pollution flowing into the wetland, it remains a formidable task.

“I thought to myself, somebody ought to do something about this,” VerMulm said.

“And then I realized, well, I’m somebody.”

Jo and Dave took the innovative step of creating a simple yet effective homemade trash-catching net with an extra-long extension to reach otherwise unreachable trash from the boardwalk.

VerMulm’s volunteering journey continued in a more formal manner when completing her required 40 volunteer hours for her naturalist certification with the Tennessee Naturalist Program (also led by Hopkins) at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Park.

Alongside becoming a certified naturalist,

through volunteering, she also developed a passion for wildlife photography. VerMulm has captured images of much of the wildlife in all the parks in Murfreesboro and beyond.

Using her photography, she is able to raise awareness in our community about the wildlife that surrounds us and what we can do to protect their habitats.

Serving as the volunteer coordinator, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the Natural Resources team’s volunteer base.

Engaging in diverse activities ranging from trailblazing and litter pick-ups to seed collecting and conducting bird surveys, volunteers from various backgrounds contribute to a collective effort that not only fosters a sense of community but also directly addresses the impact of urbanization on natural areas.

“After a litter pick-up, they’ll express their surprise about how many plastic bags and bottles they picked up, and how, in the future, they think they will try to use their reusable water bottle more,” VerMulm said.

“That’s what I love. I love watching that light come on.”

VerMulm is currently working to solidify a volunteer handbook to make volunteering in Murfreesboro even more effective. Follow VerMulm’s lead by volunteering with Outdoor Murfreesboro and the Natural Resources Division. Involvement in community efforts can make a meaningful impact on the environment.

For more on volunteering with Outdoor Murfreesboro, call 615-890-5333 or visit murfreesborotn.gov/1937.

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Living “Marvellous Light ” 1 PETER 2:9 K J V

Joe West transforms old barn structures into beautiful photo art through a unique light painting technique, and he gives God the credit

“Tennessee Tobacco Barn”

PHOTOGRAPHER JOE WEST is remembering the past by photographing old barns with creative lighting techniques.

West grew up in Kentucky before leaving in 1991 for Hawaii, where he would spend over 20 years. He returned to the South in 2015, locating in Murfreesboro, where the photographer was reminded of the dissipation of old barns throughout the South.

“My first priority, in everything, is to give God all the credit for everything I do,” the artist said.

“Driving around, I just started to see all of the beautiful old barns—a lot of them just falling down. And it really hit me that there’s a way of life just disappearing,” West said.

“So, I tried to figure out a way to document what was left in the most colorful, beautiful way possible.”

West began his photography career around 44 years ago with the Kentucky State Park systems after graduating from Murray State University. Since then, he has worked in multiple areas of photography including drone aerial imaging, real estate, nature, portraits and more.

Being one of the first to do commercial drone work in Hawaii, West spent years pho-

tographing beautiful islands and more from the air. Having been one of the first in the country to pass the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 certification, which allows someone to legally use a drone for commercial purposes, he had the ability to explore and push boundaries through his photography.

West began flying a drone over the ocean and looking back at an island. With the difficulties of the drones capturing an entire

island while remaining close by, West began using a technique of combining several images to create one big mosaic of the island. Drone aerial imaging began to find popularity, and West started to find a new unique path.

West’s current passion is using exciting and creative lighting techniques to bring old barns and other classic structures of the South back to life through his photography.

Find prints and other keepsakes of West’s work at joewestphotography.com. Also, follow his photography through Instagram @joewestphotography.

“Tractor Evening”

20 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

The goals of sharing it are to raise awareness of the hard-working generations before us and to provide a glimpse into history.

Through light painting, West is able to visually enhance the scenes of the often broken-down Middle Tennessee barns.

By taking the time to light the interior, exterior and even the trees, West uses a combination of timed exposure and the blending of multiple shots with varying lighting effects.

Light painting is a technique of opening a camera’s shutter to record the light being exposed onto the subject of a photograph. The light is moved around as if you are “painting” and then blended together for a final product.

West uses this technique in his photographs of barns and other classic buildings to enhance their color and appearance.

“It’s almost like putting a puzzle together,” West explained. “You got a piece here and a piece there and then, once you get back and you start editing, you start putting it all together.”

When photographing the barns, West merges technique and experience from both nature and real estate photography.

When planning for his shoots, he has found the prime shooting window to be about an hour before sunset.

It allows for better control of the light but leaves only about an hour to shoot each day.

After the shoot has taken place, the photos need to be edited before they are ready to be shared and sold.

Depending on the initial conditions, editing can sometimes be extensive and tedious.

Community members will occasionally reach out with locations of potential barns for West to photograph. Social media is the primary source that West uses to scout out the locations for his shoots. Social media has also provided a way to gather more business through sharing the photography.

West has been working hard to highlight the beauty of former generations and ways of living through his photography. The project has been pleasantly well received throughout the community.

“I hope there’s an increasing awareness of this way of life represented by these old barns and houses. That people, if nothing else, will just take a moment and just appreciate what came before us and understand how precious it is,” West said.

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Living

SPOTLIGHT ON NONPROFIT

Lokvede

“

In Rutherford County in 2023, [Lasagna Love] volunteers fed 1,205 individuals within 291 families.”

Ba Fresh

Volunteers deliver meals and kindness in the ’Boro and beyond

BY LAURA LINDSAY LASAGNA LOVE, an international group whose local chapters provide meals to others as an act of community care and benevolence, needs more volunteers, said Carla Jo Martin, local leader for Lasagna Love in Rutherford County and Cannon County.

Lasagna Love is a volunteer-run, not-forprofit group launched by a mom in 2020, during the first wave of the Covid pandemic.

Rhiannon Menn baked and delivered pans of lasagna to her neighbors, her generosity inspiring a viral grassroots campaign that swept throughout the nation.

The group has grown to include more than 52,000 volunteers from all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Australia and Canada with the mission to feed families, spread kindness and strengthen communities.

“Currently in Rutherford County, we only have about 20 volunteers, and we have 15 to 20 families waiting each week that aren’t matched with someone,” Martin said. “A person that wants to volunteer signs up on our website, and they determine how much they want to do, how often they want to do it, and how far they are willing to drive.

“A family goes into our website and 22 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

requests a lasagna. At that point, the computer runs an optimizer that matches up the volunteer with a family in their community that has requested the meal.”

The volunteer purchases the groceries, prepares the meal and delivers it. Lasagna always has to be an option that the volunteer can make, but the volunteer might also say, for instance, that they can prepare lasagna, chicken spaghetti or some kind of soup. It just needs to be something hearty, Martin said.

“Lasagna Love exists to deliver comfort where we experience it most often—our family dining table—and to prove that even small displays of kindness can have profound and lasting impact,” said founder Rhiannon Menn.

“Our mission is not only to help address the rise in food insecurity, but to also provide a simple act of love and kindness during a time

of uncertainty and stress, and reduce stigmas associated with people asking for help when they need it the most. Lasagna Love accomplishes this by creating an easy and accessible way for every person to help a neighbor in need the way that is comfortable and meaningful for them,” the founder added.

Volunteers prepare lasagnas and deliver them to the doorstep of local families who have requested a meal. Families can privately sign up to request a meal with no questions asked. Once a family is matched with a volunteer, the volunteer coordinates preparation using the contact information provided, and then schedules a day and time for delivery of the meal.

“The lasagnas are for anybody,” Martin said. “Single-parent households; we have delivered to the unhoused, families that are dealing with medical issues—just people

that need a little TLC in the form of a meal.

“There are no requirements. Our requirement is no judgment,” she said.

It doesn’t matter who requested or why they requested. Lasagna Love just tries to fill as many requests as possible.

“The majority of the requests we get are from low-income families, elderly who can’t get out or can’t prepare meals anymore. And it is a wide variety of people who would like a meal that might include someone who lives in a $500,000 house and just had a baby. There is no requirement to what you need to do, or what you need to be, or how much you make,” the area leader continued.

Martin says Lasagna Love has delivered 430,000 lasagnas feeding an estimated 1.8 million people. In Rutherford County in 2023, volunteers fed 1,205 individuals within 291 families.

“We could do a whole lot more if we have more volunteers,” she said. “There are some areas that have problems finding people that need help, but Rutherford County is not one of those places.”

Volunteers complete a brief online training associated with safe food preparation, and they share how they wish to participate. Then they participate as much or as little as desired—whether only one time, weekly, monthly or otherwise.

Volunteers can sign up to cook and deliver meals at lasagnalove.org/volunteer; those who would like to request a meal can do that at lasagnalove.org/request.

FOR THE KIDS Annual Special Kids race, set for March 9, funds nonprofit’s mission of caring for kids BY ANNABELLE CRANFILL FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS, Special Kids has supported the healing of medically fragile and special-needs children in Murfreesboro and surrounding communities. With its mission to serve Jesus Christ, Special Kids has been caring for children since 1998.

The 13th annual Special Kids Race—one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers— is going to be held on Saturday, March 9.

The race raises funds and awareness for Special Kids and its therapy and nursing centers here in Murfreesboro to continue supporting families.

Carrie Goodwin and her father, Dick Kleinau, founded Special Kids with the hope to help support the families of children with special needs that were being turned away for care when they could not pay.

Helping children from birth up until 21 years old, Special Kids’ services include outpatient therapy as well as occupational, physical, speech and feeding therapies.

Family resource services are provided as well as a professional nursing staff to aid the patients. Special Kids works with children and families regardless of what they are able to pay, offering their services on a sliding fee scale.

Many of these children and their families would not be able to afford needed medical care and therapy without the services of Special Kids, and the Murfreesboro

community continues to come together to support the care of these special children.

There are multiple ways to become involved in the race as a runner, walker, donor, vendor, sponsor or volunteer. There is even the option to race together with a team.

With 15K, 10K, 5K or the 1-mile Family Fun Run options at race, the March 9 event can be a fun outing for runners and walkers of all skill levels, families and businesses, as well as a chance to get involved in something that benefits others. The event will also be equipped with family fun zones, refreshments and an assortment of activities and booths.

Local businesses can sponsor the race and not only get their name out there and promote themselves but help contribute to the services of the Special Kids organization.

“I am proud for the Murfreesboro Pulse to be involved in the Special Kids Race each year and to do what we can to highlight this special organization,” says Pulse publisher Bracken Mayo. “This ministry makes a difference in the lives of many families, serving special kids from Murfreesboro and from surrounding areas far and wide.”

The race is on Saturday, March 9, at 7 a.m. at Murfreesboro Medical Clinic and registration is open on Runsignup. For more information on Special Kids and its services, visit specialkidstn.com.

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The

Minute

with BILL WILSON

by Guest Columnist MEREDITH THOMAS

Puppy Love I ASKED MR. MURFREESBORO if I could commandeer his column for the month of February to share a short story about a girl and her dog. I think he said it was fine . . . ? Anyway, I hope you like it.

A dog. A boy. A pup. Puppy. Pup-pup. A sir. THE Sir. Mister Sir. Mister Stupid Ears.

Stupid Ears. Miller. Miller G. Miller dog.

Miller boy. Miller man. A four-legged ball of fur. A bottom-feeder. A loyal friend.

Miller was a 70-pound yellow Lab mix I was blessed to share my life with for 15 years and nine months. He almost hung around long enough to celebrate his 16th birthday on Feb. 22. Unfortunately, the universe had other plans.

Our story begins on a warm Saturday in April of 2008. After two or three months of serious searching, and going to bed every night in tears overwhelmed by the sheer number of animals needing homes, we were

24 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

Animals can teach their humans a lot about love and companionship

ready, or so we thought. An unfortunate experience with our rescue of choice had us doubting our decision altogether! We had a teary-eyed little 8-year-old girl with us, so we were getting a puppy that day, come hell or high water. Two hours later we were heading home from Hendersonville with a beautiful eight-week-old ball of honey-colored fuzz asleep in the backseat. I named him “Miller.”

It was immediate and easy to see how much I was going to love this beautiful beast, but couldn’t yet fathom how important to my own survival he would become. I joke often about having commitment issues, but the very best boy I’ve known didn’t require “work” or a pledge of commitment, he only needed love—and he made it so easy to give.

Miller truly was an all-around great dog right from the jump. He was a little needy, very beta, and 100% a momma’s boy. He never wanted to be anywhere else but where

I was at any moment. He was so sweet and well-behaved, and became house-trained in no time. He knew a bunch of cool tricks, loved taking naps, and he was gentle and tenderhearted. He could find comfort and peace in even the most mundane activity.

What he loved to do more than anything was be in the water—in, on, near, within walking or driving distance of any water, including but not limited to beaches, lakes, pools, ponds, rivers, creeks, hydrants, culverts, washed-out streets and flooded backyards. But Miller had an edge, too; he dabbled in the dark arts, foraged city streets for chicken bones, got mixed up with some bad skunks, devoured an entire houseplant, and eventually dined on Momma’s unboxed bleach white Nike golf spikes. So bougie!

More than a pet, he was family: a constant cherished companion, a co-pilot, my shadow, my protector and an unwavering anchor for me during difficult times, of which there were many. Whenever I became angry, upset or overwhelmed, (all the feelings that cause me to cry) he would instantly be at my side, placing his sweet head in my lap before my first few tears could even start to fall. Always happy to see me, eager for a walk and grateful for a scratch behind the ears, and regardless of whether or not I even deserved it (I usually didn’t) he stood by me with unwavering loyalty in moments of vulnerability that made him such an indispensable part of my world.

I should also mention the boy was a champ at facing head-on any number of canine degradations like: the big one (snip!), lampshade (a.k.a. the cone of shame), rain-

coat, lampshade, dreaded winter coat (probably all clothes, really!), skin fungus from swimming in sinking creek near the bottoms and naturally the late-in-life episodes of vestibular disease, the shame of indoor shoes, doggie diapers and belly bands, oh my!

When I woke up early on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, I immediately knew it was the day I had been dreading for years. My sweet little buddy was spent. He had finally dozed off to sleep before we put him in the car. Bill drove as I sat in the backseat cradling Miller’s head in my lap, talking to him and making sure he knew I was there and wasn’t leaving his side. When we got to the vet I was overcome by an intense feeling of gratitude and a lightness of spirit. It’s weird, because this is supposed to be the hardest part, but I felt fairly calm. When it was time to say goodbye, I was at peace and filled with love and gratitude for the honor of sharing in this beautiful moment and giving the most selfless gift of mercy to this sweet, smart, funny, vulnerable beast. He gave everything he had to give every single day and wanted nothing in return. I was blessed to be his human for so long and will always be grateful for the immeasurable impact of his continued presence on my life.

His name was “The Sir.” And he was a very good boy.

Tune into WGNS at 100.5 FM or 1450 AM on Sundays at 9 p.m. for The Mr. Murfreesboro Show. Call Mr. Murfreesboro, a.k.a.

Bill Wilson, for all of your local real estate needs at 615-406-5872. Follow Mr. Murfreesboro on Facebook and Instagram.

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STORY BY BRACKEN MAYO Spring rolls

26 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

PHOTOS BY SARAH MAYO

any hungry Murfreesboroans love Thai cuisine and sushi. Plenty of establishments cater to this taste, but only one—well, now two—operate under the banner of Love Thai Sushi.

With a large menu featuring lo mein, crab rangoon, curries, pho, lots of sushi and sashimi options, pork buns, squid and octopus, salads, dumplings and many other Asian-inspired dishes, Love Thai Sushi opened its initial location just off of Interstate exit 89 in Christiana near the Love’s Travel Stop (feel the love!).

Some diners have said that while the incongruous location—between a truck stop and a truck driving institute a bit removed from Murfreesboro’s population center— may not exactly project fine dining vibes, the food and the staff have earned great feedback from both locals and travelers.

Numerous truckers passing through the area have discovered, and greatly enjoyed, Love Thai Sushi.

“I’m a truck driver so I eat food all across the country. The hardest thing I’ve come to find is finding a good Oriental place,” Alberto Bonilla posted after stopping in Love Thai and trying the Thai rice with shrimp. “What an explosion of deliciousness in my mouth!”

Plenty of others who have grown tired of the same old road-food diet agree that finding a quality spot for Asian cuisine near a truck stop is a win.

Lamarian Gates Jr. said that Love Thai

Sushi is “top notch” and is “definitely one of my shutdown spots as a trucker” due to its excellent food.

In the summer of 2022 Love Thai Sushi owner-operators Puy Darasawang and Phitsamay Vannavong opened their second location at the Fountains at Gateway.

Here, find the same Southeast Asian dishes, such as a Thai take on General Tso’s chicken that’s a little less sweet than the usual General’s chicken—not overly spicy, but punctuated with some hot sauce zing.

Love Thai Sushi also offers some popular chicken wings (“man, I’m sure they put crack in them . . . sheeesh,” one diner commented) and some tasty, fresh spring rolls, the roll primarily loaded with lettuce and rice along with some hints of cucumber and herbs, but the peanut butter Thai chili sauce sets it off.

“Tom Kha chicken was delicious! I loved the pork spring rolls. The salmon cucumber and cream cheese roll was delicious. Thai tea was great,” Anthony Davis raved. “I love the freshness of the ingredients in the food here. I definitely recommend this place. Tom yum with chicken is super delicious! Dumplings are delicious!”

The pork buns are very large, just a single bun per order, but they are tasty creations of bready, doughy goodness stuffed with scallions and pork.

Also among the alluring appetizers, the firecracker shrimp have a very, very crisp and flaky wonton wrapper and arrive accompa-

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nied with another delectable sauce.

One LTS diner said their Massaman chicken curry was fantastic, “the flavor is outstanding, with a creamy sauce and just the right amount of spiciness.

The chicken itself was tender and had a delightful texture.”

This writer, however, was not a fan of the Takoyaki (octopus balls), not because of the bits of tentacles, but due to the the deep-fried item’s interior texture remaining overly creamy and runny.

Still, the local eatery has plenty of other fine selections for all tastes.

Trishia Starley recommends the pho Pork bun (noodle soup) and the Love Roll, a special sushi roll with salmon or shrimp, cucumber, cream cheese, avocado and crab, deep fried and topped with assorted sauces.

As far as the sushi, Love Thai has the standard hits—yellowtail, salmon, imitation crab, shrimp tempura—and special creations include the Beauty on the Beach Roll with salmon, spicy crab and avocado, and the Christiana Roll containing spicy crab, cream cheese and avocado topped with salmon, spicy mayo and eel sauce.

Some diners have reported that at times, though, sushi may not be available at one of the locations if the sushi chef is not in that day.

Joe LaFerriere, a supporter of area independent eateries, said that Love Thai Sushi has the best Tom Kha and noodle soups around.

“The folks here are really sweet and took great care of me,” he said, following a visit to the original location. “The sushi was fresh and firm, the wasabi fresh, and the ginger made for a nice appetizer. Really loved the fried pork bun, crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. But the Tom Kha soup was exceptional with just the right balance of spice, sweet and sour.

“The homemade chili oil paste has some significant kick, but also some very solid flavors,” he continued. “The flavors in what they serve don’t need additional spice or seasoning, unless you want more heat.”

He reports the food at the second location is just as good as the original.

Natural light pours into the Murfreesboro location, situated among the numerous other eateries of Fountains at Gateway.

Its customers compliment even the restaurant’s details.

Del Delbridge said that he found the rice just right, “sticky but not clumpy, neither dry nor mushy, having texture without toughness.”

Also found among the pad Thai, lo mein, lad na, sushi and curries, Love Thai Sushi creates all manner of stir-fry dishes—basil, cashew, broccoli, orange, sesame and ginger options and more—and a special house-made Thai sausage.

“As a regular traveler to Thailand, I look for Thai restaurants that make me feel like I’m back in Thailand when I’m eating the food,” Prince Fergus stated after a recent meal at Love Thai Sushi. “This place nails it.”

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ing operations. The cafe announced that it will partner with Sweet Addiction, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to employing women survivors of human trafficking, addiction, domestic violence and incarceration. The Sweet Addiction helps provide some of the cafe’s sweet treats, which include cookies, cupcakes and cinnamon rolls.

The restaurant’s new hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit facebook.com/carpecafetn.

BY DELORES ELLIOTT Murfreesboro officials have confirmed that the city will be getting a TRADER JOE’S. The 2.4-acre lot behind McAlister’s Deli on Medical Center Parkway is the presumed location for the future Trader Joe’s. More information to come.

Next Brands has announced that BEEF-AROO will open a new location in Murfreesboro, making it Tennessee’s first location for the restaurant chain as the Midwestern favorite extends its reach into the South.

The Illinois-based Beef-a-Roo offers classic roast beef sandwiches, wraps, burgers, chicken and turkey sandwiches, soups, salads and fries.

“Beef-a-Roo is a 55-year-old quick-service restaurant brand dedicated to serving fresh handmade meals at an affordable price,” said Next Brands President Austin Capoferi.

“The brand’s first Tennessee location in Murfreesboro is a testament to our commitment to bringing high-quality dining experiences to new markets across the country.”

The Beef-a-Roo location and opening date have not yet been announced. For more information, visit beefaroo.com.

LA SIESTA’s Greenland Drive location has rebranded to FIESTA GRILL, although the food will remain the same, according to management.

EINSTEIN BROS. BAGELS has opened inside the Bizee Mart located at 3127 Medical Center Pkwy. The new bagel shop offers a variety of gourmet bagels, signature breakfast sandwiches, shmears, dessert options, coffees and pizza bites. For more information, visit einsteinbros.com.

MI PATRIA MEXICAN RESTAURANT has announced plans to open a second Murfreesboro location, this one at the former Applebee’s building on South Rutherford Boulevard, just in front of Walmart. Mi Patria currently operates one other location just off Mall Circle Drive. For more information on Mi Patria and updates, visit facebook. com/mipatriaconsazonamexico.

28 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

MAIN EVENT MURFREESBORO has announced that it will celebrate its grand opening on Friday, Feb. 9, with a soft opening, VIP, and friends and family events scheduled for the days prior.

The first 200 people in line during the Feb. 9 grand opening will receive a free year of laser tag. The new game center is located at 1510 Greshampark Dr. behind the McDonald’s and Rooms to Go. Main Event features 18 brand-new bowling lanes, with four additional lanes in a private suite, laser tag, a full-service restaurant and bar, a billiards area with four pool tables, a variety of arcade games including vintage and virtual reality—165 games total—gravity ropes and a meeting space. Its occupancy is 1,700 people.

It also offers full-service catering with private party rooms, free Wi-Fi, big-screen televisions and availability for parties.

Dave & Buster’s acquired Main Event in an $835 million deal back in 2022.

Dave & Buster’s now has more than 150 locations with an additional 50-plus operating under the Main Event brand.

The two concepts are similar in their food, drinks and games, but Dave & Buster’s traditionally caters to young adults while Main Event is more open to the family-friendly end of things and children’s birthday parties. For more information, visit mainevent.com.

SOUL restaurant and nightclub has opened a second location in the area in addition to its previous Nashville location, and has plans to open a third location in Antioch. The Murfreesboro restaurant is located at 2804 S. Rutherford Blvd. near Walmart where FKS Kitchen and Jay’s BBQ operated for brief stints. Soul hosts live music and karaoke and serves a variety of soul food, seafood, wings, pizza, burgers and more. For further information, visit soulmurfreesboro.com.

WENDY’S newest area restaurant, located at 3243 Memorial Blvd. (near Aldi), has opened. Regular hours are 6:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily for drive-thru, and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for dine-in. Breakfast options are available until 10:30 a.m.

PEACH COBBLER FACTORY has announced that it will celebrate its grand opening under new ownership at the former Buttermilk Sky Pie location at 2314 Medical Center Pkwy. The grand opening will take place on Saturday, Feb. 10, at noon.

The dessert brand currently operates six other Tennessee locations. Popular menu options include cobblers, cinnamon rolls, banana pudding, shakes, cookies, churros, peach tea, Belgian waffles and brownies. Visit peachcobblerfactory.com for more information.

CARPE CAFE, located at 115 Front St. in Smyrna, re-opened its doors to the public last fall after remaining closed for much of the year while renovating and re-envision-

X-GOLF will open a new golf simulator at the Stones River Town Centre beside the Paul Mitchell salon. The new golf simulator will offer a PuttView putting system and six new simulators as well as wine and beer, and golf clubs available for rent.

X-Golf has space for all ages and skill levels at its state-of-the-art indoor simulators, which operate through a combination of camera systems, infrared lasers, impact sensors and advanced gaming software. X-Golf also offers professional and personal training, leagues and events. For more information, visit playxgolf.com.

AMPED FITNESS has also announced that it will open a gym at the Stones River Town Centre. The gym will feature 24/7 availability, a women’s-only section, options for classes and personal training, HydroMassage, tanning beds, childcare with the kids club, virtual group classes, basketball and more. Visit ampedfitness.com for more information.

GRAND ADVENTURES: COMICS AND GAMES has relocated to 1013 Memorial Blvd., near the Smith Brothers Car Wash. The store continues to operate under a similar concept with a variety of comics, Magic, Digimon and Pokemon cards and items, Gundam figures, board games, RPG games, events and tournaments, a gaming room similar to the shop’s previous location and more. Hours are Monday and Wednesday from 12 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 12 to 9 p.m., Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m., and Friday from 12 to 11 p.m.

Find additional parking in the back of the building. For more information, visit grandadventurescomics.com.

LAS TROJAS CANTINA has received building permits for a new restaurant location on the corner of Medical Center Parkway and Conference Center Boulevard. The CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

restaurant currently has additional locations in Fayetteville, Tennessee, as well as seven in Alabama and one in Georgia. Las Trojas offers a variety of authentic Mexican meals, ceviche, Pollo Feliz, and its well-loved Fiesta Plate Specialty, which includes grilled chicken, steak and shrimp served on a bed of rice with broccoli, onion and cheese dip. For further information, visit lastrojas.com.

LANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES owner Jimmy Patrick has sold the business, marking the Patrick family’s exit from more than 50 years in the bowling business.

Lanes, Trains and Automobiles remains open under new ownership. Patrick will continue to operate his Murfreesboro Custom Tees apparel business at the same facility at 450 Butler Dr., but will no longer be responsible for bowling and restaurant operations there.

LTA will continue to offer its homeschool and senior bowling leagues, as well as other usual events, and will likely make some changes to the kitchen over the coming months. For more information, visit ltadepot.com.

CULTIVATE COWORKING will remain open at 107 W. Lytle St., but under new ownership. The new team consists of Jason Ayers and Brandon Santander from Veter-

WAWA has announced plans for another Murfreesboro location in addition to the previously announced Veterans Parkway location. The 16-pump gas station and convenience store will be located on the 1.9-acre lot on South Rutherford Boulevard at Bradyville Pike.

WaWa also offers a variety of coffee and hot food items. For more on WaWa, visit wawa.com. ans Pressure Washing along with Rachelle Ayers, a local attorney. All are longtime Cultivate members.

PEDDLER INTERIORS AND GIFTS, currently located at Georgetown Square

at 1756 W. Northfield Blvd., has unveiled plans to move to the former Ichiban and Moose Lodge location at 1831 NW Broad St. The shop offers a variety of home products including unique gifts, fine art, fabrics, wall coverings, jewelry, bedding, furniture

and seasonal items.

Peddler Interiors was founded in Murfreesboro in 1972 by Mary Ann Richardson and Jane Jones, and has since been bought

by Kathy and Alison Jones, who grew up shopping at the location. The new owners say they hope to continue to grow the business’ clientele and keep the Peddler open for another 50 years.

“Many of our clients are third-generation patrons, and we view them as extensions of our own families,” they said in a statement on the Peddler website.

Hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit peddlerinteriors.com.

RENZO GRACIE JIU-JITSU has opened at 1636 New Salem Hwy., Ste. B, near Costco.

The new Jiu-Jitsu location is one of three in the state, with the other two in Columbia and Spring Hill. It offers a variety of class options including kids programs, teens, women, adults and private classes.

“Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that’s all about using space, angles and timing to win without throwing a punch. It’s like a real-life game of strategy, where you get a killer workout—both for your muscles and your brain. No matter your age or skill level, CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 the moment you step on the mat, you’re in it, body and mind, ready to dive into the world of Jiu-Jitsu like a boss,” according to Renzo Gracie marketing.

For more information and class times, visit renzogracietn.com.

Progress at the former First United Methodist Church property near the Murfreesboro Public Square remains largely stagnant after nearly five years since ONE EAST COLLEGE, LLC proposed plans to construct a 110-room hotel, 55 townhouses, and an office, restaurant and retail space at the site. According to WGNS, the city recently sent a notice of default to the developers to let them know that they are in violation of the agreement made with the city as no progress has been made on the plot of land. A notice of default is a statement sent by one contract party to another to notify them that the latter has failed to fulfill the terms of an agreement, and legal action may follow if the latter continues to default.

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON has announced that it will construct a new, five-story hotel at 1412 Gateway Blvd., across from the SmartBank building along the Stones River. The hotel is considered an extended stay hotel, which offers long-term accommodation including amenities like selfserve laundry, in-suite kitchens, recreational facilities, pet-friendly rooms, conference

rooms, Wi-Fi and cable, and more. The hotel also plans to offer access to the future expansion of the Murfreesboro Greenway.

Plans for a SKATE PARK planned for Old Fort Park continue to progress after Murfreesboro Councilmembers recently approved $888,000 for the park’s construction.

New Line Skateparks FL, Inc. will soon begin work on the project and expects the skate park to be complete in the fall of 2024.

NASHVILLE HOT TUB AND SWIM SPAS has opened a Murfreesboro location at 500 N. Thompson Ln., which was previously home to Sports Seasons. In addition to luxury hot tubs and swim spas, the store offers massage chairs and more. Visit nashvillehottubsandswimspas.com for more information.

Rutherford County Schools plans to build a new elementary school in the Blackman community, on property formerly part of the Batey family farm. The total estimated project cost for BATEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL stands at $59.8 million.

PARTY FOWL has recently declared bankruptcy. This follows the opening of three new locations in 2020. These newest locations in Chattanooga and Cool Springs, and Destin, Florida, have gained the least revenue of the Party Fowl locations over the past four years. The restaurant’s owners suggest that the timing of their expansion,

KPOT KOREAN BBQ AND HOT POT has announced plans to open between Shoe Carnival and Bink’s at the Stones River Town Centre, which will be the restaurant’s fourth planned Tennessee location, in addition to Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville.

Conceived by four friends from different backgrounds who blended their cuisines over a shared table, KPOT is a unique, all-you-can-eat experience that merges traditional Asian hot pot and Korean BBQ flavors with global spices and seasonings, a full bar and a nightlife atmosphere.

KPOT offers a variety of meat, seafood, vegetable, barbecue, noodle and soup options. For more information, visit thekpot.com.

in the midst of Covid, led to a snowball of debt, which has resulted in the decision to file a plan for reorganization.

The owners have asked bankruptcy court to “allow the businesses to pause addressing their non-critical but highly damaging financial obligations so that they can build sufficient cash flow to satisfy priority and administrative claims under a Chapter 11 plan of reorganization.”

FIVE DAUGHTERS BAKERY, which offers its signature flaky, croissantstyle, 100-layer doughnuts, cookies and other pastries out of its seven other locations in Nashville, Franklin and Atlanta, will soon open a Murfreesboro shop at Fountains at Gateway on Medical Center Parkway.

30 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

The Murfreesboro City Council gave approval in early December for a construction agreement with Moody Excavating, LLC to realign Butler Drive to Joe B. Jackson Parkway in an attempt to improve traffic in the area, where the BUC-EE’S chain plans to construct a large travel center.

The project realigns Butler Drive to the west and ties it into Joe B. Jackson Parkway approximately 600 feet west of the current intersection. The realignment includes a three-lane street with a curb and gutter section and sidewalk on each side, and should help minimize the intersection’s impact on the nearby interchange. The project is expected to

start this fall and be completed by 2025.

“The realignment relocates the intersection away from the interchange ramps, reducing potential weave problems by motorists and allowing the intersection to be signalized,” said Public Infrastructure Executive Director Chris Griffith. “Once completed, the signalized intersection will provide better access to Joe B. Jackson.”

The old Butler Drive will remain in place to access existing properties but will no longer be a public connection to Joe B. Jackson Parkway.

As part of the overall project, Elam Road is also being realigned.

Excavating of the Buc-ee’s property began last fall to make way for the 76,245-squarefoot convenience store and travel center along Joe B. Jackson and I-24. The Buc-ee’s will feature 120 fuel pumps, electric charging stations, and a walking trail.

CLOSED RICHARD’S KITCHEN has closed its Lytle Street restaurant, after approximately six months in operation.

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CLARI PARK DEVELOPMENT RAMPS UP

What to expect from this new development

BY LOGAN LANGLOIS GLOBAL REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT,

development and property management firm Hines continues to advance with its 78-acre mixed-use destination located at 2600 Roby Corlew Ln., just off of Medical Center Parkway.

City of Murfreesboro Assistant Planning Director Matthew Blomeley said that Hines is working on lots that they will later be selling to individual developers who will then handle lot development. Blomeley said that he believes the Clari Park development will be a good thing for Murfreesboro, as it will presumably not only bring more total living spaces for citizens but will also provide more lifestyle options.

Hines has already begun construction on a 300-unit, 11.4-acre land parcel named The Residences at Clari Park as a part of their first land development phase of that project.

The property aims to offer future residents an easily walkable suburban living experience at the core of Murfreesboro’s Gateway District adjacent to The Avenue Murfreesboro. The lifestyle center sports an advanced fitness center, market-leading finishings and a two-story club space.

“There is robust demand for housing in the suburbs of Nashville that delivers a differentiated amenity program and walkable lifestyle,” said Hines Director Kevin Jund.

“Renters, home buyers and commercial users alike are all looking for the same thing—a great suburban location with

a unique sense of place, and convenient walkable access to dining, shops and entertainment. Clari Park is delivering on that, and we can think of no better place to meet that demand than in Murfreesboro.”

Hines has been working on recruiting business to the lots. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill has already opened, the Main Event entertainment complex will open in February, and other establishments with plans for the area include P.F. Chang’s, Drake’s, Whataburger, Black Rifle Coffee and Raising Cane’s.

Clari Park has also been celebrated for having nearby access to the Murfreesboro Greenway System and the Stones River National Battlefield.

Blomeley said Hines secured city zoning approval for the development several years ago. He said the city’s involvement in the development has only been to the extent of ensuring that the construction set out

by Hines is following city guidelines. But Blomeley, who has been the Murfreesboro assistant planning director for seven years and working for the city for a total of about 22 years, says that this development is a good step for Murfreesboro, as it gives existing and incoming residents options regarding individual living preferences.

He said that Clari Park will not be a traditional urban development zoning employing what he describes as “vertical use,” which limits how a building can be used: commercially or residentially. He said that instead, Clari Park will provide what he dubbed “horizontal mixed-use,” which connects commercial and residential uses that fit well within the same building.

“I think we’re gonna see more of that,” Blomeley said. “For the longest time in planning and zoning, one of the predominant ways of thinking was to keep different uses

separate, and I think that what we’re finding is that certain uses can be compatible with one another if it’s designed correctly.”

Blomeley said it is important for the city to provide traditional suburban housing options, but that it’s also important to recognize that many residents no longer care for the maintenance that comes with the typical suburban household.

“Providing additional types of housing options, I think, is something that will draw people to our community and will help people who are already here to stay,” Blomeley said. “If their housing needs are not being met by the current housing situation . . . developers are trying to meet those needs with new types of housing that will interest people.”

Though, many Murfreesboro residents have expressed concern about whether Medical Center Parkway’s infrastructure is ready for a large project such as this.

“Traffic on Medical Center Parkway towards 24 is already ridiculously poorly planned. To add more multi-unit housing, on the same side of town, which will be dependent on already overwhelmed infrastructure, is asking for trouble,” Murfreesboro resident Libby Anne commented on a post regarding Clari Park, a huge project in what she calls an “already overburdened part of town.”

Many others share her skepticism that the congested roads in the area—which will soon expectedly contain not only Clari Park, but also the Notes Live concert venue not far down Medical Center Parkway, among other new developments—can adequately handle any additional traffic.

“This is not ‘fresh,’” Brandon Whitt said about Clari Park. “It’s more cram-packed living and retail space. More traffic and very poorly planned in an area already busting at the seams.”

The expansion has been announced following Murfreesboro being named the thirdfastest-growing city in the United States by SmartAssest in 2022, and Nashville’s fastestgrowing submarket thanks to factors such as its explosive population and job growth. The exploding job market reportedly has largely been attributed to Murfreesboro’s position along a surging job corridor that includes Nashville heavy hitters like Nissan, Amazon and Asurion, as well as one of the largest universities in Tennessee, MTSU. Blomeley said that it is exciting to see growth such as this, as it’s the latest step in regaining much of the momentum for “unbelievable growth” before the 2008 recession, and he believes that the city will begin seeing other similar developments in the not-so-distant future.

BOROPULSE.COM * FEBRUARY 2024 * 33

Opinion

#FREEYOURCHILDREN

BY TIFFANY BOYD

WE DO NOT

GET OUR GOD-GIVEN PARENTAL RIGHTS FROM THE TENNESSEE

LEGISLATURE YOU CAN’T LEGISLATE YOUR WAY TO FREEDOM. When the government, be it state or federal, attempts to enumerate our rights, it is a slippery slope. Wording is easily amended, and what they believe they have the authority to grant can just as easily be taken away.

In Tennessee, a good example of this is HB 1414—an act to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36 and Title 49, relative to the “Families’ Rights and Responsibilities Act.” This bill outlines the “rights” of parents to, among other things, (1) To direct the education of the child, including the right to choose public, private, religious, or home schools, and the right to make reasonable choices within public schools for the education of the child; (2) To access and review all school records relating to the child; (3) To direct the upbringing of the child; (4) To direct the moral or religious training of the child; (5) To make and consent in writing to all physical and mental healthcare decisions for the child.

Tennessee is teetering on the edge of a slippery slope. These rights stated above are not granted by our state government.

These are God-given rights protected by our Constitution.

Of course parents have those rights, but the enumeration of these rights via state legislation is a Pandora’s box. Parents need to stop allowing politicians to gamble with their parental, educational and Constitutional freedoms before it is too late.

Contact your representatives and tell them that you do not need legislation to outline your rights.

“A government big enough to give you everything you want, is a government big enough to take away everything that you have.”

States across the nation are facing gross governmental overreach this legislative session. The Michigan Department of Education has called the legislature to create a bill that would require every student (including private school and homeschool students) in Michigan to be tracked annually by a government database.

Oklahoma residents are facing legislation in which parents “will have to notify DHS every year that we intend to educate our children at home. We also

FREE YOUR

have to register that encompass CHILDREN WILL every single person public school BE HOSTING who assists us equivalency and A RALLY IN in educating our tightening of the OPPOSITION children in any screws on families to the school choice way and give DHS scam on Feb. 6, at 10 that accept the a.m. at the Tennessee an explanation as government State Capitol in Nashto why we want welfare—which is ville. We must move to home educate. school choice. now to protect our paThey are seeking In 2023, West rental, educational and to add background Virginia faced legConstitutional rights. checks on every islation that would For more information, adult associated consolidate the email freeyour with your child’s requirements for children@gmail.com home or education, all students receivand every person or organization ing instruction at home. The bill associated with your home educa- sought to lump all home schooltion will be tracked and possibly ers and the strings attached to have biannual home checks,” government funding into one pot, according to the Constitutional regardless if they were accepting Home Educators Alliance. government funding or not.

In Missouri there are three The end goal is complete bills that seek to change the age government control. They will of compulsory school attendance. accomplish this goal by conThis would effectively strip away vincing the populace that they the right of the parent to decide are “giving” you freedoms by when their child is ready for enumerating them in legislation. formalized instruction.

Those in power will then amend The Arizona governor is prothat wording to fit their agenda. posing that all schools—public Slowly removing your rights one and private—adhere to the same by one, they will accomplish their standards. Yes, the same stangoal. They will graciously give the dards that are producing funcpopulace funds to educate their tionally illiterate graduates. The children via home schooling and same standards that are steeped private schooling. They will then in SEL, CRT and ideologies that amend language to exert total are the antithesis of the Christian control over how you parent and faith. This is tied directly to ESAs educate your children. in that state, because what the The water is heating up in government funds, it runs.

Tennessee and across the nation.

In Arizona, if a home-school The question is: will you be the family accepts ESA funding, the frog in the pot? child is no longer considered a homeschool student, per state law.

Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Why would the law reflect this? Free YOUR Children, a homeThe reason is that home schoolschool advocate, consultant, ing is the last frontier of freedom speaker and the founder and and the government knows that. administrator of Middle TenWhen home schoolers accept nessee Christian Homeschool government monies, they have ef- Connection. She holds a B.S. fectively bought your freedom. degree in interdisciplinary studMissouri is also waiting to see ies from MTSU. She is a wife exactly what the rules for the of 30 years and mother to five Missouri Scholars Bill, which children, grandmother to two. was passed in 2021, will look She is a former tenured public like. No one seems to know, and school teacher. She and her the recurring theme for states husband have home educated that have passed legislation such for 18 years. Contact her at as this includes revising rules freeyourchildren@gmail.com.

34 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

TECH TALK

BY BYRON GLENN

Single Tree BBQ

Improving the customer experience through technology WOULD YOU BELIEVE you could get a great-tasting barbecue in under 30 seconds at an event? With the help of technology, local restaurant owners have accomplished that feat.

When Charlie Eblen decided to open Single Tree BBQ, he knew he was not just in the food service business, he said. Single Tree BBQ is veteran-owned and operated with a location in Murfreesboro, as well as a food truck and catering company. Eblen believed that using technology within the hospitality and restaurant industries could improve the customer experience and would lead to making a positive impact in the community.

Partnering with Toast has allowed Single

BUSINESS

MOMENTUM

BY BLAINE LITTLE MANY BUSINESSES and individuals are talking about going “green” these days.

But what exactly does that mean? Much of society states we do more harm to the planet than good, but in what way is that measured? Most of the proposed solutions fall anywhere from vague to downright extreme.

But in comparison to the 1970s and ’80s, when I was growing up, modern-day America is much cleaner and environmentally safe. We have indeed come a long way!

Still, the good book does tell us to be good stewards of the earth. Nature is beautiful, and it only seems responsible to clean up the messes we make and all do our part. But when we think of “saving” the entire planet, we are hindered by analysis paralysis. What’s the best course of action? Where do I begin? How do I know what I do will benefit the environment and society? What do the experts say?

Barry McMahan, with Energy Management Solutions, is one of those experts. For

Tree to increase the speed of service by allowing the staff to take orders at the tables using handheld devices. Toast is a cloud-based restaurant management software company that provides an all-in-one point-of-sale system. Eblen decided to run towards technology, not away from it, at his restaurant.

“We’re trying to do anything and everything we can to innovate and do more with the hospitality tech industry,” he said.

Last year at the Homesteads Apple Festival in Crossville, through the innovation of partnering with Toast, Charlie saw how technology could enhance his customer service.

“At the festival, my average time from the time you hit pay on the device to the time

you got your food was 27 seconds, compared to the previous years at the event, where it was an average of five and a half minutes,” he said. “So, the ability to use technology to increase that hospitality and the speed of service and execution is the easiest thing in the world to decide on.”

The trend of restaurants using technology is not a new thing.

Restaurants partner with delivery companies like DoorDash or Uber Eats to make their menu more accessible at consumers’ homes. Have you visited a restaurant where you could scan a QR code to view their menu, use a provided buzzer to let you know when your table is ready, or place your order at self-order kiosks? Many restaurants have implemented these and other features in efforts to use technology to improve the customer experience.

Eblen’s community impact even extends to helping introduce other restaurant owners to technology platforms. When asked how other restaurant owners can enhance their use of technology, Eblen said, “They have to have an open mind.”

The restaurateur has also incorporated Atmosphere on several TVs at Single Tree BBQ with ads he designed. Those ads are also

BARRY McMAHAN Energy Management Solutions helps companies invest in efficiency over a decade, he has been showing businesses how to save money on their electric bills. McMahan helps with lighting upgrades, and better heating and air efficiency.

Any operation that uses a lot of electricity—for example, air conditioning, lighting, refrigeration and electric motors—can get a fast return on their investment by implementing McMahan’s energy-saving plans.

Last year, the Tennessee Valley Authority named Energy Management Solutions as a “Top 10 Preferred Partner.” Additionally, one

of the company’s projects was nominated by the Association of Energy Engineers for an efficiency award. The job will save approximately $1.2 million over the next 10 years. So, business owners are happy to talk to Barry.

“Some of the easy stuff is swapping out lighting,” McMahan said. “It’s amazing how many companies still have fluorescent lights.

An old-fashioned fluorescent light has the efficiency of 95 lumens per watt, but a new LED light might be 170 lumens per watt.”

So, for almost half the cost, a space can

visible at other area locations on TVs that subscribe to Atmosphere, the largest streaming TV platform built for businesses.

Single Tree BBQ’s name comes from the family farm Eblen remembered visiting when he was younger. He wanted to honor the legacy of his grandfather, who owned Single Tree Farm and whom Charlie credits for his service to the community and “making a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”

The Single Tree name “reminds me of how hard my grandfather, how hard my father, how hard my mother and everybody has worked to teach me,” Eblen said.

Implementing technology has allowed Single Tree BBQ to improve on building personal relationships with its guests. By using the handheld ordering devices, the servers actually get more time to spend at each table, helping to ensure a wonderful customer experience.

“I think you have to use tech to build a better hospitality platform and not remove the human part,” Eblen said. Technology for many can be overwhelming, but Eblen encourages restaurant owners to ask themselves “what problems are you having in your restaurant?” and then looking for new technology solutions to adopt in order to solve those challenges.

Visit Single Tree BBQ at 2805 Old Fort Pkwy. For more, visit singletreebbq.com.

be lit just as brightly. That’s good for the environment as well as the pocketbook. This is just one example of how being energy efficient makes a difference in a company’s bottom line. There are still a lot of manufacturers and shops that have older machines.

“The big savings is where you have motors and refrigeration,” McMahan said. “Many of these older tools can be updated with governors and switchboxes which prevent mechanicals from running at energy-wasting speeds.

“There is a difference between using new money for an investment versus taking an existing expense—like electricity, which you’re already spending. You are just redirecting money you are already spending,” according to the Energy Management Solutions owner.

Taking into account federal grants and rebates, companies can make some improvements with very little out-of-pocket expense before they see return on their efficiency investment. Using less electricity isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good business sense.

Contact Energy Management Solutions and ask Barry about their free facilities surveys and energy audits at 615-663-7701 or barrymcmahan@midsouthems.com.

BOROPULSE.COM * FEBRUARY 2024 * 35

SPORTS

COLUMN BY “Z-TRAIN”

TALK titanman1984@gmail.com

PHOTO BY DONALD PAGE/TITANSONLINE.COM

THE TRAIN DADDY IS BACK with sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk. All aboard! This will be my annual Super Bowl article. We will touch on the matchup, location, halftime show and my favorite topic—Super Snacks!

But before we talk about the coming Super Bowl, let’s talk Titans: particularly, the somewhat surprising and drastic changes to the coaching staff. To hear the national sports media tell it, the Titans made the dumbest decision ever by firing Coach Mike Vrabel following the 2023 season.

Personally, I would have given Mike just one more year, but Amy wanted new blood. The Titans hired former Bengals offensive coordinator BRIAN CALLAHAN as this team’s new head coach.

I like the hire itself; he comes from good coaching stock and, who knows, maybe his pops Bill Callahan will follow, as rumors suggest. His dad is considered one of the best offensive-line brains in the game, and the Titans have been a disaster in that department the last two years running.

Most important to me was—if Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk decided to fire Vrabel—that the next head coach had to be an offensive-minded guy. This is a team that could hardly score 21 points if their lives depended on it over the last few seasons.

The Titans had a list of nearly a dozen head coach candidates and there were only about three men on that list that had any business getting head coach looks. Thankfully, Callahan was one of them!

I am going to miss Vrabel and, who knows, it may end up being a huge mistake letting him go. But it was clear to many Titans fans these last few seasons, Vrabel always appeared angry and like he would rather be anywhere else than coaching football. His miserable attitude was a topic of conversation among Titan nation long before he was fired.

Rumors now circulate claiming that he wanted more power and responsibility, and he was blindsided when Ms. Amy said no and ultimately fired him. It’s crazy to think that two coaches like Vrabel and Bill Belichick are still out there looking for jobs with the head coach options dwindling. Part of what made both coaches successful in their own ways is their brash “my way or the highway” approach. It’s also what makes them tough hires for a new franchise.

36 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

New Titans head coach Brian Callahan with GM Ran Carthon

Titans Name Brian Callahan New Head Coach Swifties Set for Chiefs vs. 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII I am excited that new coach Callahan is bringing an offensive approach with an emphasis on analytics. It’s not always about tough-guy football; if you want to win in today’s league you have to evolve.

As a Titans fan, I have been saying for most of this past season that the end couldn’t get here fast enough. Here we are nearing the end of this NFL season, and it’s a mix of feelings. It’s sad knowing we won’t have football every weekend to entertain us, but it’s also an exciting new direction as we near the upcoming draft and off-season. This team has a young QB they have some hope in with Will Levis, a high draft pick, and lots of money to spend. Right now, a quick check on salary cap space shows the Titans with the second-most cap space in the league. This team has many holes and depth issues but nothing a brain and some money can’t fix.

Agree with the new direction or not, Amy Adams made the decision, and she’s the Boss Lady!

SUPER BOWL LVIII

Enough about the Titans, the Super Bowl is just around the corner. Super Bowl LVIII, or Super Bowl 58, features the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the San Francisco 49ers with Usher set to take on the halftime show. I don’t dislike Usher, but bro is past his prime and has been irrelevant for some time.

Hopefully he puts on a good show but that’s a disappointing headline. It’s about time the Super Bowl gives us some rock or country!

Instead, we get a 45-year-old Usher singing songs from 20-plus years ago about taking it nice and slow, and making love until the sun comes up. Why can’t we have Metallica?

The big game will take place on Sunday, Feb. 11, at Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. The stadium holds up to 65,000 fans and this will be the first Super Bowl to ever take place in Nevada. This stadium began construction in 2017 and opened in 2020, the second-most expensive stadium in the world with a price tag of $1.9 billion.

Amy Adams and the Tennessee Titans will soon break that record with approved plans to open a brand new $2.1 billion beauty in time for the 2027 season. I hear the people crying about the roads, the schools and the homeless here in Middle Tennessee, but I still smile at the prospect of having one of the nicest stadiums in the world here in Nashville. Money well spent!

Back to the big game. It really is about time we make the Monday after the Super Bowl a national holiday in this country. I mean, daggum, over 100 million Americans celebrate the big game gorging on snacks and drowning in drink! It’s serious business that goes late into the night. An estimated 8 million-plus Americans admit to taking

a pre-planned day off the following day.

Many petitions have started over the years, yet none have gained enough traction. It’s a tragedy. Maybe with the help of all these damn Swifties we can get enough signatures for Washington to take us seriously.

It’s a sacred day. Chicken wings and burgers, oh my! Daddy, would you like some sausage? (one of the greatest movie lines of all time). We have fried pickles and chips galore. Nothing is better than taking some meatballs, adding some chili sauce and grape jelly and letting it slowly cook up in the crock pot. One of my favorites will always be a block of Velveeta with a couple cans of hot Rotel, a hefty portion of ground beef and some hot sausage.

Pigs in a blanket! Tater tots! Freaking 7-layer dips! My brain is about to explode just typing up these words. Hot dogs and nachos and all those smashed avocados turned into that amazing guacamole. Bowls of chili and entire pizza pies for us all—just like Kevin McAllister, everyone gets an entire cheese pizza all to himself.

Then, we Americans take over 300 million gallons of beer and drink it. We drink enough beer on Super Bowl Sunday to fill over 2,000 Olympic-size pools. It’s insane.

So, the Monday after the Super Bowl needs to be a national holiday, a day of healing, rest and self-reflection. Super Sunday to Mild Monday—it has a nice ring to it.

WHO WINS THE SUPER BOWL?

I have no love for either team, but I will be rooting for the 49ers. I don’t want to see Mahomes hoist another Lombardi, and I wouldn’t mind seeing Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce embracing while crying after a loss. That would put a smile on my face!

I was rooting for the Lions to make it, and they put up a good fight but were knocked out in San Francisco.

It’s a tough road getting to the Super Bowl—unless you are the damn Chiefs, I guess, LOL. This makes the Chiefs’ fourth trip to the Super Bowl in five years. With a win, the 49ers would pull even with the Patriots for the most Super Bowl victories of all time.

The Tennessee Titans have much to improve on if they ever want to get back. GM Ran Carthon has his hands full, but for now Titan Nation should trust him to hopefully bring some of that 49’er success here to Tennessee.

The Train is rolling into the station.

Choo-choo!

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BY SEAN MORAN

A Stack of Cash or a Monthly Income Which Is Better?

HAVE YOU EVER PONDERED THIS QUESTION

that’s often whispered in financial circles: “Would you rather have a pile of cash now or a steady stream of income for life?” In simpler terms, imagine holding $100,000 in your hand today or receiving a guaranteed $2,000 every month until your final breath.

Both options come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks, and the “correct” choice depends heavily on your unique circumstances and risk tolerance. Let’s delve into the factors that might sway you towards one option over the other.

THE AGE FACTOR

Imagine you’re 80 years old. Receiving $2,000 per month sounds like the safe choice, but if you live for just three more years, you’ll only collect $72,000 before departing this world. In that case, the $100,000 lump sum suddenly seems more appealing, allowing you to spend comfortably and leave something for your loved ones.

Now, picture yourself as a vibrant 20-year-old.

With a considerable life expectancy, the $2,000/ month option holds immense promise, potentially amassing $1.4 million over your lifetime without considering any investment income you can earn on that money. As we can see, the same question results in two vastly different perspectives.

MARKET VOLATILITY Let’s say you decide to choose the lump sum and invest it in the stock market. The next day, a brutal recession strikes, slashing your $100,000 investment down to $60,000. If you’re 80, you might kick yourself for not taking the guaranteed monthly income.

However, at 20, you’ll likely weather the storm, knowing that the market has a history of recovering and potentially multiplying your wealth over the years.

No matter which end of the age spectrum you are on, however, you are not living your happiest day when you see that your account has dropped by $40,000.

RETIREMENT CONUNDRUM As a financial advisor, this question pops up frequently, especially during retirement or job changes.

Companies often offer retirees the choice between a lump sum payout or a monthly pension. Similarly, individuals might consider exchanging a lump sum for an annuity’s guaranteed income stream.

My approach to this dilemma involves calculating potential scenarios. Assuming a reasonable yet conservative return on investment (5%, for example), I project how the lump sum would grow over time while factoring in regular withdrawals for living expenses. This is then compared to the guaranteed monthly income, identifying the point at which the annuity becomes more beneficial and when the lump sum would potentially deplete.

For instance, a $100,000 investment earning $5,000 annually (5%) in interest would run out of money in the fifth year considering taking out $24,000 each year for living expenses. Compare this to $24,000 each year, forever. Even if you were to earn 6% on the $100,000 lump sum, the result would still be a depleted balance at the end of year 5 considering $2,000 per month for expenses.

Remember, this is just one example, and the annuity might not always be the superior option. If, in this case, the investor passed away after year 2, they would have only received $48,000 from the annuity, while the $61,050 remaining in the lump sum could have been left to their loved ones. Many annuities and pensions only pay out for the life of the owner, but if the one you have offers other options, those need to be factored in.

LIFE’S UNCERTAINTIES

RISK TOLERANCE

Life throws curveballs, making financial planning a complex puzzle. That’s where seeking professional guidance from a financial advisor can prove invaluable. By analyzing your specific circumstances, risk tolerance and long-term goals, an advisor can help you navigate this trade-off and make an informed decision that aligns with your unique needs.

Your appetite for risk plays a crucial role in this decision. If you already possess a sizable fortune, a $100,000 investment might feel like a small gamble, potentially fueling aggressive tactics to maximize returns. Conversely, if that $100,000 represents your nest egg, preserving capital becomes paramount, leading you towards more conservative strategies.

In this case, you might choose one or the other, depending on how it impacts your life and what you might be able to do with the money.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided herein is not tax, legal or financial advice. It is for informational purposes only. These numbers are provided to you based on current information released by the IRS and could be subject to change. Be sure to set up time to speak with your financial advisor and CPA to learn more about how these changes will impact you. Contact Sean Moran with Red Barn Financial at smoran@redbarnfinancial.com or 615-619-6919.

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Live Exceptionally...Well!

BY JENNIFER DURAND

When Is Self-Care Selfish?

WHEN IS SELF-CARE SELFISH? NEVER! Even if you thrive on taking care of others, you must take care of yourself. If you’ve ever flown in an airplane you’ve heard the flight attendants instruct you, in the event of an emergency, to put on your oxygen mask, then assist a child or another. Why? Because you think better when you are clearheaded and focused and your response time is quickened.

How can you translate this mindset into your daily living? I can’t tell you how many times I have heard from clients over the years “I know I should make time for myself but I just feel guilty or indulgent.” They are referring to getting a massage or other spa-related service. Yet, when they lay on the table and surrender to the skillful hands of the professional tending to them their breath becomes deeper, their mind slows down, and their muscles start to ease and relax into the warmth

38 * FEBRUARY 2024 * BOROPULSE.COM

of the atmosphere. This is where you empty the vessel of whatever you’ve been carrying around—problems, worries, responsibilities— and allow more space to breathe. In these moments you are replenishing your body, mind and spirit. After a session, you not only feel more relaxed, you feel more energized.

If you could gain $1,000 by investing $100, would you do it? Of course you would! What about gaining 10 hours by investing one? It’s the quality of time and what you do with it that enables you to handle more with greater ease. When you feel better physically and mentally you spend your time on more fruitful activities. So why would you try to convince yourself that you are being indulgent? You can prevent many health issues with simple, consistent self-awareness and care.

“Until you value yourself, you won’t value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it.” — M. Scott Peck

When you are disciplined with your money early in life (like saving more than you spend, living within your means) you will have more later. You see the wisdom in this thinking and are preparing for the future. That is part of self-care. When you don’t manage your money, you will just spend as you go and may not have much to count on later. Likewise, when you take care of your mind, body and spirit you are building a more solid foundation to rely on in the present, and in the future.

Another key component of self care is mind. What are you listening to, who are your mentors, and who do you spend time with?

Read something every day. Learn something new every day. Be active in some way every day. Keep the balance between what goes in and what goes out.

What is beneficial to your well-being and what isn’t? If the people you spend time with don’t “get you,” it may be time for a change.

I knew a couple who were in a long-term relationship and both enjoyed drinking a lot. One day, one partner realized it was too much and no longer wanted to be caught in that lifestyle. She stopped drinking, but her partner wasn’t on the same page. She became more lucid and clear about how she wanted to live and feel, and alcohol no longer served her for the good. She encouraged her partner

to join her; he was not yielding. She ended up leaving the relationship because the environment did not support self-care and growth.

Tending to your spirit is also essential for balanced living, and for developing faith, kindness and compassion for yourself and others. If someone asks a favor of you and you’ve been working all day or taking care of others and just need some time alone, that is the time to say “no.” Showing up for yourself in that moment is self-care. You will have other opportunities to lend a hand. If all your friends are going out to a party and you just need sleep—staying home and sleeping is self-care. You will miss out on more than just a party if you are too tired to function.

My hope is that you learn what valuing yourself means, feels like and looks like.

After all, you were divinely created on purpose, and what you have to contribute to this world and the growth of others is important enough to take care of.

Jennifer Durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook Day Spa & Gift Shoppe; she is a certified QiGong and Breathe Empowerment instructor, a skin care and makeup specialist. Visit nurturenook.com or facebook.com/nurturenookdayspa or by calling (615) 896-7110.

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