inside
mtsu fight song / battle of the bands / ashley dawn / consider the lilies / Data suites / and more! January 2024 | Vol. 19, Issue 1 | free
living Middle Tennessee’s Source for Art, Entertainment and Culture News
Fresh new start
MTSU Names Derek Mason Head Football Coach Ahead of 2024 Season, Coach Stock Out After 18 Years
LOCAL • LICENSED • INSURED
Big Blimpin’: Residents Spotting Blimps Flying Over the ’Boro
food
Fatguy Southern Kitchen Serving Smoked Meats in Lascassas
music
Tuba Player and Nashville Symphony Member Chandler Currier Award-Winning Service Declutter, Donate, Recycle Furniture, Appliances, Construction Debris, Trash, Brush and MORE!
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Contents
On the Cover: Derek Mason courtesy of goblueraiders.com; Blimp by Jenny Lye
15
28
18
Features
17
consider the lilies
in every issue
Local filmmaker Ricky Burchell releases his latest project.
18
6 Events
16 Reviews
Smyrna Ice Rink, Polar Plunge, The Connection, Murfreesboro Chess Lunch, Comedy for a Cause and more!
The Weird Sisters
calendar
scenic smokies
Take Twin Creeks Trail to view Fairy House, Ogle Place and more.
20
big blimpin’
Residents spotting blimps landing and taking off from Smyrna Airport.
12 Sounds concerts
album movie
tech talk
nature news
19 Living
Data center spurs local economic growth
Northern Cardinals
34 Opinion
Mr. Murfreesboro
free your children
School choice scam
22
North Boulevard Church of Christ plants West Murfreesboro campus through “power of prayer.”
Six local bands participate in Battle of the Bands at Washington Theatre
26 Food
Beat Creeps return to Liquid Smoke
30 News
MTSU Band of Blue updates fight song
Building on a prayer
28
MTSU names Derek Mason new head coach ahead of the 2024 season.
Ashley Dawn plays Jan. 31 show at Puckett’s
L’Orange European Bistro Brasas Grill, Pastime Barber Shop, Grindstone Cowboy, Lascassas Cafe, and more
Saltburn
music notes
in with the new
ashley dawn
Tuba player and Nashville Symphony Member Chandler Currier
Restaurant
Fatguy Southern Kitchen
business buzz Arisu Korean BBQ,
constitution study
Will America be destroyed from the inside?
sports talk
Titans’ disastrous season in 2023
money matters Planning for a new year
living . . . well! The power of now
Contributors: Tiffany Boyd, Britney Brown, Delores Elliott, Paul Engel, Byron Glenn, Bryce Harmon, Zach Maxfield, Destiny Mizell, Sean Moran, Jay Spight, Andrea Stockard, Bill Wilson Publisher/Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo
Art Director: Sarah Mayo
Copy Editor: Steve Morley
Advertising: Nneka Sparks
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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
A happy 2024 to you! I encourage you in all of your resolutions. This year, my resolutions include: – Sales up by 20%. The Pulse has been blessed and supported, but I believe more growth is achievable. – 35% increase in joy. It’s important to make your goals measurable! – Body fat down eight pounds. Not a huge amount, but I should keep trending that direction. I hear it is not healthy for the old man to carry around a bunch of fat near his heart. – Doubling of smiling and gratitude. – Fun up by three units. – Stretch every day, early. – Stay hydrated. Drink a gallon of water every day, two on most days. – Build relationships with all of my family members, individually and collectively. – Get proper rest. At least seven hours of consistent sleep. – Swim, run, jump, dig, hike, lift and climb. As far as beef goals for Bracken Jr. and Bracken Sr., 2024 is the year that we shall make a Beef Wellington. Boeuf Bourguignon was our gourmet beef dish of 2023. #beefgoals And 2024 shall be the year that little Beck uses the toilet. #parentgoals Last year was a good year. The Mayos had a blessed Christmas. It was great to see so many family members and advertisers throughout December. Jr. reminded us that some of the highlights of 2023 were all of our bear sightings at Cades Cove back in the spring. The Mayos went on some wonderful hikes, and intend to continue that tradition. Explore Tennessee! I believe my health definitely improved in 2023, loading up on spinach, blueberries, salmon, almonds, stir-fries and lean meats, and trying to keep moving. I played a great deal of chess with Jr. and others. What a frustrating, disgraceful season for the Titans, with a severe lack of desire, discipline, blocking, competent coaching, run defense, capable man-to-man coverage and people who look like professional football players. Still, I do thoroughly enjoy NFL Playoff time, whomever makes the cut. There will be a year of perseverance coming up. I will continue spending time with the family, playing music, preparing and distributing the Pulse, getting outside, staying active, adventuring to new places and respecting deadlines! Keep up the good work, Pulse sponsors. Thanks for the support of our community publication, Murfreesboro. Despite reports of tough times, economic woes, inflation, doom, the messed-up labor market, etc. (and prices have absolutely gone up and the middle-class standard of living down, for certain, over recent decades—since the early 1980s inflation has risen 5.5 times with average incomes only tripling in comparison, according to information from our financial friends at Reed and Associates of Primerica), the businesspeople of Middle Tennessee, for the most part, seem to remain upbeat, hardworking, creative and willing to keep on doing the best they can. May 2024 be filled with blimps and Bigfoot, hiking and sunshine, abundance, perseverance, happiness, learning and laughter. Peace, Bracken Mayo Publisher/Editor in Chief
events calendar ››› January 2024 ››› by Andrea STOCKARD Jan. 4
tion or to register, visit classy.org/event/ murfreesboro-polar-plunge-2024/e533214.
Brew Business Mixer Brew Business Networking continues the first Thursday of each month at Middle Ground Brewing Co. (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Thursday, Jan. 4, from 4:30–6 p.m. There is no cost to attend and network. For more information, visit middlegroundbrew.com.
Jan. 6 Mama Mia! Kids Class Calling all young chefs to The Curious Kitchen (327 E. State St.) on Saturday, Jan. 6, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. for Mama Mia! Kids Class. When many think about Italy, they think about delicious food. Learn how to make all-time favorites, passed down from Sicilian ancestors, at a cooking class specially designed for young chefs. Creativity is encouraged. Ages 6–15 are welcome. The menu includes: cheesy garlic bread, mixed green salad with homemade buttermilk dressing, spaghetti and meatballs, double chocolate brownies and Italian cream sodas. For more information, visit thecuriouskitchen.net.
Jan. 5 Family Campfire Gather around a campfire for s’mores and fun with the Wilderness Station team on Friday, Jan. 5, from 4–6 p.m. Hike out to the campground for a fire, snacks, and a few campfire stories while cooking s’mores and socializing. Meet at Wilderness Station Campground (401 Volunteer Rd.). The cost to attend is $3 for ages 4–17, $5 for ages 18 and up, and free for ages 3 and under. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 615-642-1103 or email ekreuziger@murfreesborotn.gov.
Jan. 7 Adult Maker Club Paint a quilt block painting and enjoy the company of other makers at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) from 1:30–3:30 p.m. Ages 16 and up are welcome. There is no cost to join and all materials are provided. Pre-registration is required by visiting rclstn.org or calling 615-225-8312.
Jan. 5 Postpartum Moms Meet & Greet Join the Postpartum Moms Meet & Greet co-hosted by Dr. Marilyn Campbell of Milestone Chiropractic and Kimberly Williams, a doula with Growing your Nest Birth Services. This group is meant for women in all stages of the postpartum journey. The intention is to build community, connection and support for women by providing a place to lean on each other. Siblings are also welcome; there is a small play area within the office. The meeting is Friday, Jan. 5, from 9–11 a.m. at Milestone Chiropractic (611 N. Maple St.). For more information, visit milestonefamilychiro.com.
Jan. 5–14
Through Jan. 7 smyrna ice skating rink Smyrna’s Ice Skating Rink located at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (at 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. East, Smyrna) is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12 to 8 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. through Jan. 7. Skates are included with admission—Adults: $7; Children and seniors $5; under age 3: Free. For more information, call 615-459-9710. (900 N. Maney Ave.) on Jan. 5–7 and 12–14. Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m. and Sunday performances are at 2 p.m. Ticket prices start at $10. For more information, visit mltarts.com.
Jan. 6
The Glass Menagerie
Polar Plunge: Freezin’ for a Reason
In collaboration with Oaklands Mansion, Murfreesboro Little Theatre presents Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie. This classic play, set in the 1930s, is introduced to the audience by Tom, the narrator and protagonist, as a memory play based on his recollection of his mother, Amanda, and his sister, Laura. The performance is at Oaklands Mansions’ Maney Hall ballroom
Join hundreds of brave individuals Saturday, Jan. 6, at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) to support Special Olympics Tennessee athletes in Rutherford County. With a minimum of $75 ($50 for students) in donations, each plunger receives the official Plunge T-shirt and all bragging rights associated with a brave endeavor. Additional prizes are available depending on the
6 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
amount raised. The “Arctic Adventure” festivities begin at 8:30 a.m. with the plunge check-in, music, inflatables, games, hot chocolate, coffee and donuts. The costume contest is at 9:50 a.m., with the plunge at 10 a.m. The indoor pool will be open immediately after the plunge until 11:30 a.m. Each plunger needs to register and raise the required minimum. The $10 registration deposit is applied to the plunger’s fundraising total. Plunge as an individual or as a team. Costumes are encouraged. Awards and prizes are given to top fundraisers and best costumes/themes (youth and adult category for costumes). Funds raised provide sports training and competition for Special Olympics Tennessee athletes in Rutherford County. For more informa-
Jan. 7 Cripple Creek Cloggers Cripple Creek Cloggers is a Murfreesborobased troupe teaching and performing traditional Appalachian-style square dancing with a clogging step. They begin their 57th year on Sunday, Jan. 7. They will meet at 4:30 p.m. at the Smyrna Senior Activity Center (100 Raikes St.). There is no charge to participate and no previous dance experience is necessary. All interested persons are invited. This troupe organized at Kittrell School in 1967 as a part of 4-H Share the Fun. They have traveled and performed in every U.S. state and in international festivals. Cripple Creek Cloggers will host the next International Folkfest June 2–9, 2024. For more information, call 615-896-3559 or email appdancer@aol.com.
Jan. 9 Rutherford Cable The topic for January’s Rutherford Cable continued on page 7
continued from page 6 meeting is Real Talk About Your Career on Tuesday, Jan. 9, from 7:15 a.m.–9 a.m. at The Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.). Gary Harris, director of government and community relations with the north region of the TVA will discuss “Leadership – You Are the Message.” Members and guests are welcome. Bring plenty of business cards. Professional headshot sessions are also available before and after the meeting. For more information, email yourrutherfordcable@gmail.com.
Jan. 15 book reading by Author Rick Glaze
Jan. 9 Living Sent Everyone is invited to the January 2024 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 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 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. Living Sent Murfreesboro meets on the second Tuesday of every month. To RSVP, email bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.
Jan. 9–10 A Midweek Mini Retreat to Get Unstuck If you are feeling stuck and uncertain, this free Midweek Mini Retreat is available through Zoom. This imagination activation is for trusting yourself and getting unstuck. It’s time to transition from busy to being, to trade chaos for clarity. This two-day event is for women ages 12 and up who are looking to gain clarity, confidence and courage by learning to activate their imagination and trust their inner voice to get unstuck. Meetings are Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan 9 and 10, from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. For more information, find A Midweek Mini Retreat to Get Unstuck (Murfreesboro) on Eventbrite.
Jan. 12–28 little shop of horrors Little Shop of Horrors is set to open Friday, Jan. 12, at The Center for the Arts in downtown Murfreesboro. The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II”—after his co-worker crush. This R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down-and-out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out-of-this-world origins and intent of global domination! Little Shop of Horrors is rated PG-13. Find tickets at boroarts.org, by calling 615-904-ARTS (2787), or in person
January 12 coach williams’ riverdale hall of fame induction Riverdale High School will be inducting Coach Jerry Williams into the Sports Hall of Fame at the basketball homecoming game on Friday, Jan. 12, at 6 p.m. as part of the RHS 50th anniversary. At halftime, there will be a brief ceremony honoring Coach Williams followed by a tour of the new wrestling facilities named in his memory. Coach Williams graduated in 1975 from Antioch High School, where he participated in wrestling and played football under legendary coach Warren Dunn. He graduated from MTSU in 1980 and coached wrestling at Lebanon High School until 1982, then served as assistant coach at Ezell Harding until 1984. He continued his career at Riverdale High School, where he coached wrestling until 1993. Williams was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1991 and passed away on Feb. 1, 1993. His team was informed of his passing upon their return from the state championship tournament in Chattanooga. The event is open to everyone, and the Williams family looks forward to visiting with former RHS students, teachers, wrestlers, football players and countless others who knew Coach Williams. at the Center for the Arts Box Office, 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro. Showtimes include 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Jan. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27; and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays Jan. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28.
Tween/Teen Club meets monthly to craft and socialize. January’s meeting is Sunday, Jan. 14, at 4:30 p.m. There is no cost to join and materials are provided. The TEC is located at 306 Minerva Dr. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.
Jan. 14
through Jan. 15
Seasons Community Appreciation
artist-in-residence
Seasons of Murfreesboro Restaurant & Lounge (2227 Old Fort Pkwy.) will hold a Community Appreciation Event on Sunday, Jan. 14, from 5–8 p.m. This family-friendly event is a token of appreciation to the Murfreesboro community. The day will consist of free food and inspiration for everyone who comes out. For more information, find Seasons of Murfreesboro Restaurant & Lounge on Facebook.
Jan. 14 Crafty Tween/Teen Club The Technology Engagement Center’s Crafty
Send community event information to contact@boropulse.com
Discovery Center at Murfree Spring is now accepting applications for its 2024 artistin-residence program. An artist-in-residence will embark on a four-week journey, collaborating with young minds through workshops, hands-on demonstrations, and the crafting of installations that will leave a lasting impression on the community. The selected artist will receive a $2,000 stipend. Visual as well as muiltidisciplinary artists may apply, whether your medium is paint, sculpture, textiles, digital art, writing or music. The application deadline is January 15. For more information and to apply, visit explorethedc.org/air.
Rutherford County Historical Society presents author and Murfreesboro native Rick Glaze on Monday, Jan. 15, from 6:30– 9:30 p.m. Glaze will read his book Ralph & Murray and converse with Murfreesboro natives Kem Hinton and Cecil Elrod at Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave.). The story follows Ralph and Murray’s adventures together, their lives as pets with their human families, and their love for the people of a picturesque small town in the late 1950s. This nostalgia-tinged story is about Ralph (a dog who fancies himself “in charge of security” for his home) and Murray (a cat convinced that rubbing his tail can cure warts). There is no cost to attend. Books and e-books will be available for purchase. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org or rickglaze.com.
Jan. 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day March Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by marching from Central Magnet School to Patterson Park Community Center on Monday, Jan. 15, from noon–2:15 p.m. Immediately following the march there will be a brief program to recognize the legacy of Dr. King at Patterson Park Community Center. The march begins at Central Magnet School (701 E. Main St.) and runs to Middle Tennessee Boulevard and on to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, concluding at Patterson Park. All ages are welcome. There is no cost to participate. For more information, call 615-893-7439 or email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov.
Jan. 16 Rutherford Arts Alliance Gathering Join Rutherford Arts Alliance members, partners and guests as they gather at Liberty Station (850 NW Broad St.) on Tuesday, Jan. 16, at 5:30 p.m. for the RAA’s first quarterly meeting of 2024. Liberty management will be showing attendees around their event space, market and cafe and share their mission to provide a progressive workforce pipeline for adults with disabilities or employment barriers. RAA interest groups will share a quick recap of 2023 and a few exciting plans for 2024. Mix and mingle with old and new friends while enjoying light refreshments. For more information, visit rutherfordartsalliance.org. continued on page 8 boropulse.com * January 2024 * 7
Continued from page 7
Mondays
Jan. 18
Connect Murfreesboro
The Connection at Champy’s Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the January 2024 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18. 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.
Jan. 19 Dolly Parton Birthday Storytime Help celebrate Dolly Parton with a special storytime on Friday, Jan. 19 at 11:30 a.m. at Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.). Read one of Ms. Parton’s books, participate in a craft activity, and sign up for the Imagination Library. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.
Jan. 19 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, Jan. 19, 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. For more information, call 615-631-7458 or visit everybodydrumsome.com.
Jan. 26 Comedy for a Cause Comedy for a Cause, held Friday, Jan. 26, at the Walnut House, benefits the Murfreesboro Kiwanis Foundation. Featuring Paul Aldrich and Brian Bates, the evening will include two shows, beginning at 6:30 and 9 p.m. The Kiwanis Foundation serves the Murfreesboro community through a variety of projects. With a focus on children, they sponsor Key Clubs in area high schools and they also support Candle Wishes, the Child Advocacy Center, Endure Athletics, Good Shepherd Children’s Home, Holloway 8 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
Jan. 22 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, Jan. 22. For more information, call 615-426-7373 or email rmitchell@rutherfordcountytn.gov. High School Daycare and A Soldier’s Child. General admission tickets for Comedy for a Cause are $75. The Walnut House is located at 116 N. Walnut St. in downtown Murfreesboro. For tickets and more information, visit borocomedy.com.
Jan. 26–28 Nashville Dance Fest The Nashville Dance Fest is set for Jan. 26–28 at Williamson Family Farm (3250 Wilkinson Pk., Murfreesboro). The unique festival is slated to become the destination event for country music dance enthusiasts from around the world. The festival is designed as a fun and immersive experience, offering workshops for all skill levels, competitive events in line dancing and swing dancing, and daily concerts featuring an array of country artists. Nashville Dance Fest was co-founded by Adia Nuño and Taylor Winston, who, after meticulous planning and over 25 years of combined experience in the dance community, will lead the festival along with their veteran team of instructors. A variety of ticket levels are available at nashvilledancefest.com.
Jan. 27 Author Dr. Rachel Louise Martin Author Rachel Louise Martin, PhD, will speak at the Friends of Linebaugh Library’s Author Luncheon on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at The Maple Room (415 N. Maple St.). Dr. Martin is a historian
and writer whose work has appeared in outlets like The Atlantic and Oxford American. She is the author of Hot, Hot Chicken, a cultural history of Nashville hot chicken, and A Most Tolerant Little Town, the forgotten story of the first school to attempt courtmandated desegregation in Clinton, Tennessee. Members of Friends of Linebaugh Library can purchase discounted tickets for the luncheon for $15 or $25 without membership. This can be done at the circulation desk at Linebaugh Library (105 W. Vine St.). For more information, visit rclstn.org.
Jan. 28 Cryptid Club Come out to the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr) for Cryptid Club on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 5 p.m. This is a fun, all-ages event where attendees learn about a new Cryptid Creature each month. Discuss the folklore, stories and theories surrounding the “sightings” of such phenomenal creatures. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-225-8312.
Through Jan. 28 Winterfest at Fountains Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.) hosts Winterfest outdoor ice skating rink through Sunday, Jan. 28. Grab your family and friends and make plans to come and skate. For more information, cost and a full schedule, find Fountains at Gateway on Facebook and Instagram or visit fountainswinterfest.com.
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 reserved for members to set up one-on-ones and socialize. For more information or directions, visit connectnashvillenetworking.com/events.
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 run 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 on the group, visit facebook.com/boro2square. continued on page 10
Send community event information to contact@boropulse.com
THE
SE N S E S
Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming
THURSDAY
7549 Woodbury Pk. Murfreesboro BOOK A TOUR
Call or Text 615-542-5397 Email
trish@fivesensefarm.com
If you c an drea m it, we c an m ake it happen
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JAN. 18 CHICKEN
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Held the 3rd Thursday of each month
Veteran Owned & Operated
525 SE Broad St., Murfreesboro
615-849-1994
26 Sitz Dr., Manchester
931-954-6121
Pastime Celebrates its
120th
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-ins All Day!
Open for Walk $
15 Haircuts 8am–5pm
• Lowering Ears for 120 Years! • YOUR ONE-STOP, FAMILY-FRIENDLY BARBER SHOP
Offering barber and shaving services for men, as well as cuts and color for ladies
116 S. MAPLE ST., MURFREESBORO • PASTIMEBARBERSHOP.COM
Continued from page 8
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.
Thursdays Mad Cow Trek Club The Mad Cow Trek Club running group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). The group embarks on a route of 4–8 miles and welcomes runners of all paces and abilities. 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.
Thursdays TinkerTec
How’d that extra piece of pie work out for ya? Cardio Kickboxing
$69 PER MONTH Unlimited Attendance, Bag Gloves Call for a FREE lesson
Burn 800 calories an hour while learning simple, effective self defense! MUST REGISTER BY FEB. 28TH!
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.
Fridays C3 Networking 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
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
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 10 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
levels to this casual chess meetup each week. Those attending may bring a board and a clock if they can, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.
Saturdays GlowForge Orientation 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 makers 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.
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concerts Wed, 1/3
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Kenna Elpers
Puckett’s
Rhonda Funk
Thurs, 1/4
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Sir Anthony
Fri, 1/5
Burger Bar
Joe Hooper
Seasons of Murfreesboro
2Country4Nashville
Wed, 1/10
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Robyn Taylor
Panther Creek Brews
Muddy Boots
Puckett’s
Live Music in middle tennessee
Mon, 1/15
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Open Mic Night hosted by Toast
Smyrna VFW Post
Randy and Friends
The Jenkins Twins
If You Go
DJ Dads Been Drinking
Echo
burger bar 1850 Old Fort Pkwy.
Middle Ground Brewing Co. Puckett’s
Hobo Cane
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Boomerang
Smyrna VFW Post
Jesse Black
Sun, 1/21
Santa Fe Line Dance
Jeff Lysyczyn
Carson Mac
Bailey Rose
Thurs, 1/11
C-Dock Boys
Hadley; Jack Finley Band
Cary & Sherrie Lynn
2Country4Nashville
Blues Jam
Wed, 1/17
Mon, 1/22
Izzy Grace
Jeff Lysyczyn
Oliver Pigott
Open Mic Night hosted by Toast
Cedar Glade Brews Hank’s Honky Tonk
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Happy’s Sports Lounge
Fri, 1/12
Jack’s Place
Jeff Lysyczyn
Puckett’s
Bailey Rose; Bill Ashmore & the Last Stand
Zone Status
Burger Bar
Tony Castellanos
Hank’s Honky Tonk
LynnMarie & E3
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Cooter River Band
Smyrna VFW Post
Shane and the Moneymakers
Sat, 1/6
Cedar Glade Brews
Eddie Paul
Happy’s Sports Lounge
Chad Cates & Eddie Heinzelman Jack’s Place
Tony Castellanos
Panther Creek Brews
Open Mic Comedy with Josh Fox
Champy’s Chicken
Puckett’s
City Cafe
Everette Brown Trio
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Taylor Hughes; In-Cahoots
Smyrna VFW Post
Jeff Lysyczyn
American Blonde
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Zone Status
Happy’s Sports Lounge
Shane and the Moneymakers
Puckett’s
Sat, 1/13
Smyrna VFW Post
Everette Brown Trio
Nick Hickman Band The Deltaz
Shane and the Moneymakers
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Rockin Country
Sun, 1/7
City Cafe
Front Street Pub
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Hadley; Mikki Zip Band Happy’s Sports Lounge
DJ Vince
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Luna’s
Hop Springs
Puckett’s
Crosstown Blues Jam
Mon, 1/8
Rubiks Groove; Revelry The Ricky J. Taylor Combo
Burger Bar
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Smyrna VFW Post
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hamm Bone
Open Mic Night hosted by Toast
Tony and the Attitude
Randy and Friends
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Tues, 1/9
Hop Springs
Smyrna VFW Post
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Sun, 1/14
The O’Donnells Blues Jam
12 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
Hop Springs Seasons of Murfreesboro
Hank’s Honky Tonk Puckett’s
Thurs, 1/18 Grindstone Cowboy
Craig Wayne Boyd
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Will King
Fri, 1/19
Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Cliff Dorsey; Jeff Caron Band
Happy’s Sports Lounge
Peter Moon Band Jack’s Place
Tony Castellanos
Liquid Smoke
The Beat Creeps; Sorority Sisters Puckett’s
Los Swamp Monsters Seasons of Murfreesboro
Escape Band
Smyrna VFW Post
Shane and the Moneymakers
Sat, 1/20
Champy’s Chicken
Jeff Lysyczyn City Cafe
Everette Brown Trio
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Dwayne Langston; The Cooter River Band Happy’s Sports Lounge
DJ Vince
Hop Springs
The Holy Ghost Tabernacle Choir; Donnie Doolittle; Tongues
boropulse.com/calendar
of Fire; Circuit Circuit
Tues, 1/16
Hank’s Honky Tonk
full calendar online at
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Emily Miller
Hop Springs
Burger Bar
Seasons of Murfreesboro Smyrna VFW Post
Shane and the Moneymakers
Sat, 1/27
Cedar Glade Brews
Jeff Lysyczyn City Cafe
Everette Brown Trio
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Escape Band
Grindstone cowboy 115 N. Main St., Eagleville
Happy’s Sports Lounge Hop Springs
Smyrna VFW Post
Emily Kate Stevens
Tues, 1/23
Heart of Vinyl
Delyn Christian
MTSU Wright Music Building
Jonathan Warburton
Seasons of Murfreesboro
2Country4Nashville
Wed, 1/24
Middle Ground Brewing Co. Panther Creek Brews Puckett’s
Cole Ritter and the Night Owls
Seasons of Murfreesboro
Back Stage Brass The Boro
Summon the Moon; JayTheDon; Carter Levon
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Sun, 1/28
Panther Creek Brews
Lexy Dunn
Phil Valdez
Muddy Boots
Puckett’s
Taylor Hughes
Smyrna VFW Post
Open Mic Night with Sharon
Hank’s Honky Tonk Hop Springs
Blues Jam
Mon, 1/29 Burger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Thurs, 1/25
Open Mic Night hosted by Toast
Silent Ruckus
Randy and Friends
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Smyrna VFW Post
Fri, 1/26
Tues, 1/30
Jeff Lysyczyn
Thomas Larson
Burger Bar Hank’s Honky Tonk
Mike Wiggins; Justin Dukes
Happy’s Sports Lounge
Down South Band Jack’s Place
Tony Castellanos
Panther Creek Brews
Open Mic Comedy with Josh Fox Puckett’s
CITY CAFE 113 E. Main St. FRONT STREET PUB 104 Front St., Smyrna
Fleatwood Mac (Fleetwood Mac tribute)
Hank’s Honky Tonk
CHAMPY’S CHICKEN 1290 NW Broad St.
Krystal King; Whiskey Smoke
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Randy and Friends
cedar glade brews 906 Ridgely Rd.
Hank’s Honky Tonk MTSU Wright Music Building
Daniel Velasco and Ellen Sommer
Seasons of Murfreesboro
2Country4Nashville
Wed, 1/31
Hank’s Honky Tonk
Mikki Zip & Court Taylor Puckett’s
Ashley Dawn
Hank’s Honky Tonk 2341 Memorial Blvd. happy’s sports Lounge 302 W. Main St. Hop Springs 6790 John Bragg Hwy. Jack’s Place 114 E. College St. luna’s Night Club 527 W. Main 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 1211 Greenland Dr. Washington Theatre 521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
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Sounds
music notes Aconundrum
Battle of the Bands Returns to Washington Theatre, Six Bands to Perform Feb. 3
MTSU’s College of Media and Entertainment, Band of Blue Harmonize on Updated Fight Song Sixty-seven members of Middle Tennessee State University’s Band of Blue stood, instruments poised and bodies packed into the College of Media and Entertainment’s Studio No. 1 in November 2023 for a project two decades in the making— an updated recording of MTSU’s fight song. Cue a collaboration with John Merchant, chair of MTSU’s top-tier Department of Recording Industry; Craig Cornish, music professor and band director; Michael Fleming, recording industry professor; and others. “It actually requires a lot of technology in a tight time window,” said Merchant, who coordinated the facilities, production team and scheduling for the one-hour time slot. “We’re using multiple facilities within the college [because] our normal recording studio is too small. All mics and recording will happen in the larger TV studio, and the sound will be sent by fiber optics to another room where all the recording and quality control will happen. The project arose after Andrew Oppmann, vice president for marketing and communications, wanted the fight song to be used as the “on-hold” music on the university phone system, but discovered a technical issue. “To do that, I discovered we needed a high-def digital copy of the song . . . our official sound file of the Band of Blue playing the song was about 20 years old and wasn’t done professionally,” said Oppmann, who added that the updated version will be available for download on MTSU’s website, played at home basketball games not supported by the Pep Band and used soon as the phone system’s on-hold music. 14 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
In the hours leading up to the new recording, audio production graduate students Mitchell Breitmann, Kelly Grenvik and Kolyo Vanchev worked on the studio’s final preparations, measuring the exact distance between the multiple microphones and considering the effect of rising air temperature as Merchant explained that heat actually slows the speed of sound. “This session will provide an excellent opportunity to work with a large group of musicians and learn from Professor Merchant and Professor Fleming,” said Breitmann, a second-year graduate student in recording arts and technologies originally from Augusta, Georgia. “Seeing how to professionally record a large ensemble like the marching band will be invaluable for my future career.” Call time crept closer, and band members assembled on the quad to warm up, the drum line alone booming and audible across campus. “The band members get to be a part of MTSU’s grand history!” Cornish said as the first of his students began to set up in the studio. As faculty and students hit their final marks in the studio, Merchant echoed the collaborative and student-centered nature of the project. “They’re getting a unique academic experience,” Merchant said. “For the production students, they’re seeing a session that lasts an hour requires dozens of hours on the front end. The more quality, time and thought you put in in advance, the higher chance you have to get a good result.” Learn more about MTSU’s audio production major at mtsu.edu/programs/audio-production.
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. The participating bands include Aconundrum, Blue Willow, Outpost, The Feetles, Warplay and Zoe Imperium, six groups all performing original songs encompassing multiple rock subgenres. Aconundrum is a high-energy rock band with pop elements as well as some blues and soul influence. Blue Willow specializes in psychedelic rock. Formerly a thrash band, Outpost has created a unique rock sound through songs about Mother Earth and mental health. Middle Tennessee State University students (and one alumnus) make up The Feetles, a comedy-infused punk band. Warplay is a newer rock band that hails from Murfreesboro, while Zoe Imperium is an alternative band with hip-hop/rap themes in its music. 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.
Beat Creeps Return to Liquid Smoke Jan. 19, Sorority Sisters to Join Murfreesboro garage-punk outfit the Beat Creeps will return to Liquid Smoke on Friday, Jan. 19, to “sensually ravage the adoring ear holes of Liquid Smoke’s clientele once more,” as the venue posted in promotion of the evening. Sorority Sisters will open the show at 8 p.m., with the Beat Creeps—Nic Roulette, Leilani Kilgore, Ariel Dornbush and Elliott Tanner—kicking off at 9 p.m. to continue the energy. The show is 21-and-up; no cover. Liquid Smoke is located at 2 N. Public Square, Murfreesboro.
FROM Y
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HELPING HOMEOWNERS
Back to My Roots Agin: Ashley Dawn Opens 2024 at Puckett’s on Jan. 31
OPEN NEW
DOORS FOR ALMOST
Boot-stompin’, honky-tonkin’, country music songwriter Ashley Dawn opens her 2024 performance schedule with a Wednesday, Jan. 31, show at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant in Murfreesboro. With her enthusiastic twang and a smile, Ashley Dawn pays tribute to the country music traditions. “I love country music, ’cause it feeeeels good!” she said. Join her for this evening of soulful music and Southern cooking on the Murfreesboro Public Square. Puckett’s Murfreesboro is located at 114 N. Church St. Music at the Jan. 31 show starts at 6 p.m. Make table reservations at puckettsgro .com. For more on Ashley Dawn, visit ashleydawn.com.
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Reviews
Who Are The Weird Sisters? The Weird Sisters
Emerging from Nashville’s dynamic music landscape, The Weird Sisters unveil their latest full-length album, Who Are The Weird Sisters? Packed with 14 seamless highway groovers, this “space disco” record captures a sound ideal for moonlit drives and pulsating house parties. Produced at 714 Studio, mixed by Mike Fahey at Starbird Sound, mastered at Infrasonic Mastering and pressed at the Vinyl Lab—all Nashville institutions—Who Are The Weird Sisters? is set for release on Feb. 3, 2024. The album’s opener, “Party On,” beckons listeners with a distinct blend of Gabrielle Lewis’s funky Moog-oscillations and Chris-
16 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
album tian Northover’s rhythmic beats, infused with Izaac Short’s robotic, vocoder-driven vocalizing. Lewis’s shining saxophone solo emerges as a standout element. Cranking up the space disco levels, Short spastically, confidently quick-spits Dreaming is free if you open the door to your mind / Long as you’re looking / There’ll always be something to find / Where do we go if the blind keeps on leading the blind on the thumping “Turn the Music Up,” layered with Arabic-flavored vocal accompaniment from Lewis, exhibiting a mix of Blondie and The Cranberries. “Turn the Music Up” and “Shirley” bring some New York City influence to the album, inspired by the band’s summer ’22 dance escapades in NYC. “Shirley,” inspired by Lewis’s grandmother (named Shirley), is a straight-up dance party number. “Come On, Spaceship” stands as a Shortfueled dancer, with some 24-bit salsa vibes, more vocoder-infused vocals and a grungier, Daft Punk-styled electronic dance sound. One of the more comforting aspects of The Weird Sisters is the lack of competitiveness within the duo’s ranks. Short and Lewis only complement one another, collaborating with a harmonious synergy. This album would not exist without the two of them. Find The Weird Sisters’ Who Are The Weird Sisters? Feb. 3 across the icons, or for sale on vinyl through theweirdsistersband. com. Catch an album release show at The Vinyl Lounge, 1414 3rd Ave. S., Nashville, on Saturday, Feb. 3. — bryce harmoN
movie Saltburn Director Emerald Fennell starring Barry Keoghan,
Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike
Rated R
With Promising Young Woman, Emerald Fennell announced herself as a promising new talent. With her follow-up, Saltburn, Fennell seems eager to make good on that promise, if not a little too eager. Beautifully shot in a claustrophobic 4:3 aspect ratio, Saltburn tells the story of a student on scholarship at Oxford University, Oliver Quick (Keoghan), and his friendship and infatuation with the ultra-popular rich kid Felix Catton (Elordi). Oliver quickly ingratiates himself with Felix through tales of a tough upbringing, catnip to an impossibly handsome lad born into a life of luxury. Felix then invites Oliver to stay at his family’s estate for summer break, the titular Saltburn. From there Oliver’s obsession with Felix, as well as his family—his aloof father James (Richard E. Grant), his vapid and statuesque mother Elspeth (Pike), and his morose and horny sister Venetia (Alison Oliver)—only grows. It is only Felix’s friend Farleigh (Archie Madekwe) who senses something off, perhaps even sinister, about Oliver. What the film has in style it lacks in substance. As a vehicle for Barry Keoghan to solidify his position as one of film’s weirdest
little guys, it works in spades (one stomachturning scene in particular has become somewhat infamous). But the film feels more interested in shocking through its transgressions than anything else. Even then, save for that one scene and a final sequence that’s less shocking for its revelations about the plot than about Keoghan himself, the film fails to inflame more often than it succeeds. As a Talented Mr. Ripley for the social media age, it works in that it has stripped away all notions of nuance and all hints of theme. Even as a traditional thriller, beneath the Sofia Coppola-inspired, dream-like haze, there’s little to grasp on to. None of the characters, save Oliver, have even the slightest bit of characterization deeper than my descriptions above. None of the scenes, regardless of length, offer any escalating drama or tension, and are all some expository variation of Oliver awkwardly trying to fit in, or someone telling Oliver he doesn’t fit in. All that aside, some people will like it based on vibes alone. But to me, Saltburn’s biggest crime is that despite its edgy, “are you not entertained?” posturing, I actually found it a little boring. — jay spight
MOVIE
Consider the Lilies Local filmmaker Ricky Burchell releases his latest project
boropulse.com * January 2024 * 17
Middle Tennessee filmmaker Ricky Burchell has released his latest project, Consider the Lilies, on major streaming and cable platforms. Filmed in and around Nashville and Burchell’s hometown of Murfreesboro, the cast of the film includes Hilary Williams (the daughter of Hank Williams Jr.), former Miss Curacao—and Miss Universe contestant— Chanelle de Lau, Layla Cushman, and gospel singer Philip White. Burchell wrote and directed the inspirational urban drama, with Kendall Gray and Vicki Myers Fults serving as executive producers, co-produced by Layla Cushman and released by Vision Films. In Consider the Lilies, a successful woman’s life seems perfect with a thriving bakery business and teenage daughter until she realizes her husband is cheating. When her estranged mother is hospitalized with a terminal condition and little hope of regaining consciousness, her faith is further challenged. She struggles with forgiveness and reconciliation of the past so she can be present for those who need her now. Find Consider the Lilies on iTunes, AppleTV, Vimeo, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu and all major cable providers. For more information, visit considerthe liliesfilm.com or follow Ricky Burchell at instagram.com/ricky_burchell.
Living
TRAVEL
If You Go Ogle Place Parking Area Cherokee Orchard Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Mynatt Park 622 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, Tennessee Note: As of 2023, a parking tag is required to park within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cost for tags is $5 a day or $15 for a week.
Scenic Smokies Take Twin Creeks Trail to view Fairy House, Ogle Place, Mynatt Park and Smoky Mountain flora and fauna
story BY bracken mayo To view various lovely, natural, historic and special Tennessee sights—including a preserved piece of homestead history, a serene passage alongside a mountain stream and a unique, magical-looking hillside springhouse—take the Twin Creeks Trail, just outside of Gatlinburg. Connecting the Ogle Place homestead site within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg’s Mynatt Park, the 2.2-mile trail travels in between two gurgling creeks, as its name suggests. In the late 1800s, Noah “Bud” Ogle constructed a cabin, a barn and a mill in the hills just outside of Gatlinburg. The structures still stand today, protected for national park visitors to experience and commemorated on the National Register of Historic Places. 18 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
photos by sarah mayo A 0.7-mile nature loop trail travels around this Ogle Place area and, spurring off from this loop, the Twin Creeks Trail heads downhill to the north towards Gatlinburg, making a peaceful, fairly level walk alongside, naturally, a couple of creeks. Portions of the trail were a little soupy in places on a cool December day, but overall the trail is in good shape and easy to navigate, containing a small bridge crossing one of the creeks at one point and a few other points that necessitate crossing a stream over rocks. The creeks quietly flow alongside the trail, which sits not far from Cherokee Orchard Road within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The remnants of an old chimney, or a
rocky structure of some sort, stands near the creek at one point. Other stone walls still stand in other places, which, according to another hiker, served as property boundaries for families in the area predating the formation of the national park in the 1930s. Approximately a mile from the Ogle Place, the Twin Creeks Trail crosses a paved roadway that leads to an area of the park containing a research center that includes the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center and various National Park Services Natural Resources Center buildings—where fire prevention, nature preservation and other scientific work is carried out—as well as picnic pavilions and parking areas. Discover Life in America, a nonprofit dedicated to discovering and understanding biological diversity in the Smokies, has placed its headquarters within this Twin Creeks area as well. Carved into the hillside directly behind the Discover Life in America building sits a unique park attraction. A stone arch supports an opening in the hillside leading to a wonderfully designed
rock springhouse still flowing with mountain springwater, a unique structure not necessarily labeled and promoted as an official national park tourist attraction but a lovely sight that park visitors have dubbed the “Fairy House.” A rock staircase leads to the top of this structure, where visitors can imagine settlers from long ago retrieving their clean water from the area. Heading back to the Twin Creeks Trail, hikers can choose to continue on the trail for another approximate mile to arrive at the Gatlinburg city limit and Mynatt Park, an area with basketball and tennis courts and fishing access on Le Conte Creek, or head back to the Ogle Place. In total, the Twin Creeks Trail journey— all the way from the Ogle Place, passing by the science center and the Fairy House, onto Mynatt Park and back—is a 4.5-mile trek, with some gentle elevation changes at points but a fairly easy degree of hiking difficulty and plenty of Smoky Mountain flora and fauna to view.
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S Northern Cardinals Vibrant birds add burst of red to snowy winter backdrop story / photos BY ASHLEIGH NEWNES Winter unfolds its own charm, and one aspect I truly enjoy during this season is bird watching. Even amid an ice storm, when everything else slows down, the resident birds persist in their hustle, actively foraging for sustenance. It’s an ideal time to set up bird feeders, extending a helping hand to our feathered friends navigating the challenges of the colder months. Among the familiar faces at my feeder during this season, the Northern Cardinal stands out, with its vibrant colors popping against the winter backdrop. Join me in the simple joy of observing these active and resilient creatures in our own backyards. The cardinal holds a special place as one of North America’s most beloved and recognizable birds. Yet, male and female cardinals have very different appearances. The males showcase bright red feathers, while the females, though less flamboyant, exude beauty with their brown coloration tinged with subtle red hues. Unlike some birds that migrate to warmer climates, Northern Cardinals are built to endure winter in Tennessee. Their resilience shines through as they not only tolerate the cold but thrive in it, bringing a burst of color to the otherwise wintry scenery with their fiery feathers. Northern Cardinals believe in sticking together. There are monogamous birds that pair up for a year or longer, although some couples mate for life. During courtship, males demonstrate their strength by finding seeds for the females and feeding them one by one, resembling a courtship
display akin to kissing. Throughout winter, these pairs often forage together and, come spring, they embark on building nests and raising their young. Being granivorous, cardinals primarily consume seeds. Their short, cone-shaped beaks are adept at breaking open seed shells. Regular visitors to backyard bird feeders, cardinals indulge in seeds, berries and insects. Sunflower seeds are a particular favorite, and many folks strategically place feeders to attract these red visitors. It’s a common sight during winter—cardinals perched on snowy feeders. Beyond their biological significance, cardinals hold symbolic importance in many cultures. Stories abound of cardinals representing loved ones who have passed, or acting as beacons of hope. They are often seen as messengers from the spiritual realm, bringing encouragement and reminders of departed loved ones. While cardinals themselves are not currently facing threats, their habitats are at risk. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving wooded areas, maintaining diverse vegetation and mitigating the impacts of urbanization. Protecting the spaces where cardinals find food, build nests, and raise their young is crucial to ensuring their continued presence in Tennessee. The Northern Cardinal isn’t merely a winter guest; it’s a practical, year-round resident adding a touch of charm to Tennessee’s natural landscape. As winter unfolds, take a moment to appreciate these red-feathered beauties. boropulse.com * January 2024 * 19
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Living
by bruce plummer
big Blimpin’
by ashley nicole wilson
by beverly henderson anderson
Rutherford County residents spotting blimps landing and taking off from Smyrna Airport BY DESTINY MIZELL
It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a . . . blimp? Murfreesboro and Smyrna residents have been speculating the who, what and why on the soaring, submarine-shaped objects seen in the surrounding airspace this past month. Some skywatchers have cast out theories about aliens amongst us and spyware, but the truth is much more mundane—the vessels are blimps, originating from the Smyrna airport. Currently, French pilots are training in the area so that, eventually, they can fly blimps in France. The Smyrna Airport is one of the only locations in Middle Tennessee that provides blimp repairs and fueling. In addition, the Smyrna Airport is also one of the only airports around with a hangar large enough to house them. Overall, the two white blimps have stirred quite the buzz on social media. With local residents posting their theories and excitedly sharing photos of the flying objects, the blimps have been a popular, and fun, topic of conversation. “Not gonna lie, for a second I thought maybe it was a UFO,” area resident Ashley Wilson commented on a Facebook post inquiring about the blimp. The namelessness of the plain white blimps have caused further concern, hence the espionage comments. On another Facebook post about the blimps, Gary Smith stated “I find it odd that there is no identification on it. A new Chinese weather balloon?” On the flip side, blimp-spotting has become a sort of a game among the community, with many asking how the blimp is and where it is located on a daily basis. This led to the creation of two Facebook groups decorated with memes and local photos and videos: Rutherford County Blimp Spotting and Murfreesboro Blimp Society. There should be plenty more blimp sightings in the area in 2024.
20 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
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Building on a Prayer
North Boulevard Church of Christ plants West Murfreesboro campus through “power of prayer” BY BRITNEY BROWN “Making Disciples . . . Planting Churches”—this is the North Boulevard Church of Christ mission statement. North Boulevard has long been a prominent landmark along North Rutherford Boulevard in Murfreesboro, not far from MTSU. Church members come from all over Murfreesboro and the surrounding areas to meet together and worship the Lord every Sunday morning. The church has grown substantially over the last two decades. Its prime location and the genuine love that the church members exhibit for one another inspired the elders to undertake a new challenge. They support many missions in other parts of the world. Why not start a mission in their own backyard? Or, in this case, the other side of the city. A lot of folks in Smyrna travel across town on Sunday morning to worship. What if the growing community on the western side of Murfreesboro had their own building in which they could meet and do outreach? The elders and the church got excited about this vision and began to pray back in 2013. The prayers of the congregation were, over time and in many stages, answered. First they were answered in the form of Glenn Robb, who came to North Boulevard from Atlanta 22 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
to spearhead the church’s project for planting a “west campus.” The launch of this project began with interest meetings to explain the needs and the vision; after getting to know the church, Robb and about 100 members, who volunteered to be “local missionaries” from the east congregation, went to the Lane Agri-Park center and began to worship there. Every Sunday, beginning at 6:30 a.m., they’d put up and tear down hundreds of seats, several projectors and other equipment, and, at the conclusion of services, clean up. They even installed temporary dividers to partition off classes. These had to be put up and removed each time the church met. Soon, people in the community became interested in this “congregation.” As it was gaining a foothold, the church really relied on its “life groups”—small groups used to create a familial environment while studying the Bible. People who came to the
congregation immediately had a place to plug in outside of worship, without the intimidation of a large crowd. “We wanted everyone on the west side of Murfreesboro to know that we were present,” Robb said during an interview with the Murfreesboro Pulse. It did not hurt that many community outreach events were held here throughout the year, hosted by North Boulevard as a whole. In the first year, before the campus construction was more than a dream, they hosted two large events: a Christmas party, dubbed “The Christmas Experience” (1,300 people in attendance); and an “Easter Experience” with egg drops, booths, and a record-breaking egg hunt (over 8,000 in attendance)—the latter turned out to be the biggest Easter party that Murfreesboro had ever experienced. The congregation’s attendance grew, and the opportunities expanded for those at the location. David Hunzicker soon joined Glenn Robb and the team of the dedicated West Campus staff as a minister. The congregation realized it would eventually need a fixed location. North Boulevard began looking for property in 2017, and the following year purchased the 18 acres on Burnt Knob Road, on which the West Campus building now stands. “It’s been a blessing to have this much
land, because the building is designed to easily double on the left-hand side,” Robb said. Yes, the church is already planning to double as membership grows and outreach expands. The church desired to have a welcoming, inviting environment and many visitors do, indeed, report that the building has that feeling when one first steps inside its glass doors. When asked about the mission statement and inspiration that fueled the West Campus ministry, Robb replied: “Make disciples and plant churches. . . . Our focus is always coming back to the concept of helping people follow Jesus. We focus on Christ and our love for other people. So out of that last one—to show our love for other people—is why, from the beginning, we wanted it to be a welcoming, inviting community of faith.” Even though the economic times have been challenging in the last couple years, the church managed to come up with the money necessary to begin and complete construction at the site. The building was made to be strong and sturdy, but with many supply shortages across America, it was also made very simply. The architectural design, spearheaded, again, by Robb, was meant to be “homey and open,” he told the Pulse. He even explained that before the walls were painted, many of the young people in the expansive youth group at the West Campus wrote his or her favorite verse on the wall, thereby covering the walls, literally, in God’s Word. Robb, Hunzicker and all who have made this new outreach their personal passion project, say that it has everything to do with the power of prayer. The first Sunday that the congregation got to meet in its new, permanent auditorium, the building was packed; membership has grown to about 550 people each Sunday. Some upcoming events include weekly GriefShare group meetings beginning Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. and the Winterfest youth event from Feb. 16–18. For more information, visit northboulevard.com/campus-west-murfreesboro or visit the congregation at 4950 Burnt Knob Rd., Murfreesboro. Sunday worship services begin at 9 and 10:30 a.m.
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boropulse.com * January 2024 * 23
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The
Minute
by bill wilson
Murfreesboro makers
chandler currier
tuba player / nashville symphony member
I do hope everybody had a merry Christmas and a happy new year! I thought I would start out 2024 with a little music. My personal musical claim to fame—my closest encounters in front of an audience— was when I was a member of the Campus School choir. I believe it was fourth or fifth grade, and the furthest I went to perform was at MTSU. Of course, you did not have to sing your way in to become a member of that choir. Everybody was a member. But now, let’s turn to this month’s Murfreesboro Maker: a gentleman who, by the way, is only 20 years old, and is a musical prodigy—Chandler Currier. I sat down with Chandler, who is one of the newest members of the Nashville Symphony, to learn more about his musical pursuits and personal interests. I was so impressed with his knowledge and his manners. Not only has he been playing music, specifically the tuba, since he was 11 years old, today he can say he’s played at Carnegie Hall in New York City and also for the London Symphony. It was a privilege for me to be able to sit down and talk with Chandler Currier. 24 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
Mr. Murfreesboro: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where were you born? Chandler Currier: Murfreesboro, Tennessee. How old are you? Twenty. Who is your family? Mike, Jill and Chase Currier. Where did you grow up? Smyrna. Where did you go to school? Stewart’s Creek High School, Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School. I understand you have a passion for music. What instrument do you play? Tuba. Why do you play that instrument? I originally started on trombone, but then our band needed a tuba, so I switched. Where all have you played? Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, David Geffen Hall, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Gaylord Opryland Hotel, Corson Auditorium and Kresge Auditorium at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, the Barbican Center in London, Ingram Hall at Blair School of Music, Steve and Judy Turner Recital Hall at Blair School of Music. What is your favorite piece to play? Paul Hindemith’s “Mathis der Maler.” What’s it like playing in a symphony? It’s exciting, makes me feel alive, and gets my adrenaline pumping. It’s also an incredibly rewarding experience and gives me a greater appreciation for giving back to my community. Who is your conductor? Giancarlo Guerrero. What type of awards have you won? Keston Max Award, 2019 Tennessee Music Education Association Concerto Competition. When you’re not playing the tuba, what do you like to do? What are your other hobbies? I enjoy various outdoor activities, including
fishing, hiking, kayaking, biking, hammocking and camping. I also enjoy laser tag, social events, exploring new things, eating a variety of foods, watching movies and spending time with family. What is your favorite food? Steak. What is your favorite movie? The Harry Potter series. What makes playing the tuba so special to you? I love being the foundation of the brass section, and I’ve always resonated with lower frequencies more. What type of music do you like to listen to? Country, pop, jazz, lo-fi, bluegrass. Do you have a favorite band? No, I really enjoy listening to a variety of artists. Do you have a pet? Yes, our tabby cat, Polly. Could you see yourself playing in a big band like the Tommy Dorsey band? Yes, I would love to have that experience. How many hours a day do you practice playing the tuba? Three hours. I’m assuming you have to dress up to be in the symphony. Do you like that? Yes, it’s fun to get the chance to wear fancy clothes and the uniformity is also great. How many tried out for the tubist spot for the Nashville Symphony? Over 100. Were they from all around the world? Yes. Who are some of your major influences over the years? My parents, and my teachers Alan Baer, Joe Alessi, Thomas Riccobono and Gilbert Long. Where do you see yourself 5 to 10 years from now? Continuing with the symphony, maybe make an album, starting a family, and making a lot of music! 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.
Food
The Dish
restaurant
restaurant Fatguy Southern Kitchen location 6854 Lascassas Pk., Lascassas, Tennessee phone 615-273-2808 Hours Tues.–Thurs.: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri.–Sat.: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. prices Smoked wing plate (six wings and two sides): $14.99; Pork sandwich with one side: $10.99; Full rack of ribs: $19.99; Fatguy combo platter (any two meats, two sides and cornbread): $16.99; One pound of smoked sausage: $12.99
Honor the Smoke A Fatguy Southern Kitchen serving smoked pork, brisket, sausage, wings from homey Lascassas restaurant
story BY BRACKEN MAYO
26 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
Photos by Sarah Mayo
After earning a reputation for serving quality smoked meats and sides from its previous home in a Murfreesboro gas station, pitmaster Ray Clark has relocated his local barbecue business’s base of operations to Lascassas. Now working in the large white house near Lascassas Self Storage, Clark and his crew continue serving fantastic smoked pork, chicken, ribs, beans, brisket, taters, banana pudding, sausage, greens, and much more at the restaurant, known as Fatguy Southern Kitchen. Visitors to Fatguy can smell the savory scents pouring out of the smokers upon arriving at the restaurant, situated on Highway 96 in downtown Lascassas. A large, metal, bull-shaped smoker sits near the road, welcoming visitors, with the restaurant sitting back off the highway just a bit, a large grassy area separating this smoky retreat from the rest of the busy world. The downstairs dining room currently contains only five tables, but the building has room to expand the available dining space for customers upstairs as needed, according to staff. Plus, the Lascassas location has a beautiful, expansive outdoor seating area with numerous sections, each one containing a couple of tables and lounge chairs and a shade covering, and each one of these sections has an attractive wooden fence neatly surrounding it. This scene would
online fatguysouthernkitchen .com make a very comfortable place for groups to enjoy an outdoor barbecue picnic when the weather is pleasant. “You must try this place,” said Fatguy patron Dorinda Dawn. “The outdoor space is my favorite!” In contrast to most restaurants within town, the rural Fatguy Southern Kitchen site boasts a massive front yard area—a fine place to let the kids run and burn some energy well away from any traffic, to throw a ball or Frisbee, or take a walk. The Fatguy ribs burst with smoky flavor. They are not at all “fall-off-the-bone” (which is overdone, according to many rib enthusiasts); rather, they have an excellent snap to each bite as the carnivore rips the meat from the rib bone, and remain quite juicy. The place also serves some fantastic smoked sausage—just greasy, salty and smoky enough. Diners find the pulled pork juicy and smoky as well, and one fan of Southern-style vegetables says the turnip greens are just about perfect, all about well-cooked, tender greens, not overly meaty, seasoned, vinegary or salty. Robert, a Fatguy team member, says they aim for consistency with all of their offerings. He will sit with Clark at all hours of the night tending to the meat on the smoker as the smoke from hickory and pecan wood bombards it with flavor. “They honor the smoke here,” posted another pleased customer, Tania, regarding
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the barbecue establishment. “It’s not about the sauces, but about that nostalgic flavorful smoke in the meat.” Find all of the staples—pulled pork, brisket, chicken wings, sausage, campfire (quartered) chicken and ribs—during most operating hours at the Southern Kitchen. But Chef Clark, a.k.a. Fatguy, gets quite creative with all manner of flavorful and meaty culinary inventions. Daily specials could include burnt end tacos, jambalaya, Brunswick stew, fried catfish, ham, a loaded baked potato, Cajun salmon, cowboy nachos, bologna, chicken and dressing, or smoked spaghetti. “I’ve gotten a smoked turkey from Fatguy for the holidays for several years now; it’s always moist and delicious and a hit with my family,” reported Thomas Blackington. “They also have great brisket and pulled pork.” The place sells a monster of a sandwich creation known as the Fatguy Slammer, containing brisket, pork, chicken and sausage. The meats are tasty and moist enough to not require any sauce or topping, but Fatguy typically sets its sandwiches off with a bit of pickle, pickled onion and barbecue sauce. “It was the most juiciest pulled pork I
have ever had,” said Brianna Robinson. “You didn’t need a lot of sauce and the meat was so tender and yummy. I got the potato salad and it was a huge side portion. The portions in general are very generous. The atmosphere was homey and comfortable and everyone was so nice. I will be coming back for sure!” All of the barbecue platters come accompanied with a slice of sweet and moist cornbread, almost like cake. Clark said that for decades he dreamt of creating a place that he could call home to his award-winning, slowand-low smoked meats, a place where friends and families gather and relax over a hearty, home-cooked meal. After partnering with Daniel Annenkoff, who owns and operates Munch—a Murfreesboro restaurant on Medical Center Parkway that specializes in natural, ketodiet-friendly veggie and protein bowls— Fatguy’s Lascassas eatery has become a spot where good food comes with Southern hospitality on the side. “Burnt end tacos—so tasty,” said Beth Wrigh, also complimenting the “excellent ribs, yummy blackberry tea and very nice and friendly workers” at the Fatguy Southern Kitchen. boropulse.com * January 2024 * 27
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IN WITH THE NEW MTSU welcomed Derek Mason as its new head football coach at a Dec. 6 press conference in the MTSU Student Union Building.
MTSU names Derek Mason new head coach ahead of 2024 season, Coach Stock out after 18 years
Mason said. “I can’t wait to get started.” The new coach signed a five-year deal with a $1 million annual value, according to MTSU Athletics Director Chris Massaro. Stockstill made $910,000 in total pay in 2023, according to reports. But just one year after MTSU agreed to an extension with Stockstill, which was set to run through 2029, Massaro decided that the Stockstill era was over, opting to pay the buyout BY BRACKEN MAYO and making a change for the Blue Raiders. Following Mason’s hiring, Massaro said that Following the 2023 season, the new coach has “bounce” and “charisma.” Middle Tennessee State University parted “That’s what we need to engage our fans, ways with longtime head football coach Rick Stockstill and named former Vanderbilt to engage our community,” said the MTSU director of athletics. head coach Derek Mason as the new coach The feedback was quite mixed from the of the MTSU program. Blue Raider fan base, with many After a 4–8 season for the Blue ready for change, but plenty Raiders in 2023, the university of others very supportive opted to move on from Stockof Stockstill, who formed still, owing him a reported numerous relationships in contract buyout of apthe Murfreesboro commuproximately $5 million. nity at large over the past Stockstill had served two decades beyond the 18 years at the helm for confines of Floyd Stadium MTSU, fourth-longestand the MTSU campus. tenured active coach in the Rick Stockstill “About time,” one fan Football Bowl Subdivision with former Blue commented succinctly, upon (which contains 133 schools), Raider Kevin Byard learning of Stockstill’s firing. posting a total record of 113–111 Another observer of the program, Ronnie with the Blue Raiders. Mangrum, said he admired Stockstill leading Mason gave credit to his predecessor folMTSU to 10 bowl appearances in his 18-year lowing the early December announcement career, amidst “very little fan base support.” of the change, calling the program “the In contrast, Buck Davis called Stockstill’s house that Rick Stockstill built.” tenure, and his overall record of only two “He left good bones and a strong foundation. He did a lot to raise and encourage these games above .500, “an atmosphere of total mediocrity.” young men and help them take the journey,” 28 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
While many fans were on board with making a coaching change, some question Mason’s track record as a head coach. During his era at Vanderbilt, Mason led that team to a 27–55 overall record throughout seven seasons, going 10–46 in the SEC. “We just got rid of a coach for being mediocre, now we are getting one who is a proven loser,” Keith Bennett stated. Vanderbilt fired Mason in 2020 after eight consecutive losses that season, and seven consecutive losing seasons in a row. The following two years, Mason served as defensive coordinator for Auburn in 2021, and for Oklahoma State in 2022, but was not with a team in 2023 until his December hire with MTSU, working as an analyst for the SEC Network during the 2023 season. Yet Massaro praised Mason’s “experience as a head coach” and “his reputation for coaching fast, aggressive defenses” saying
MTSU Director of Athletics Chris Massaro, Coach Derek Mason and MTSU President Sidney McPhee
that “Coach Mason’s vision for MTSU football fits exactly what we were looking for.” When asked about how he wants the Blue Raiders to look on the field, Mason responded “physical, tough and intelligent.” “This league is physical,” Mason said. “When it comes down to it, you better be able to win the middle eight. You better be able to find yourself converting on third and short. And you better be able to win in the redzone.” Ultimately, regardless of what the opinions are, MTSU made the move—trading a coach with a 50.4% winning percentage at a Conference-USA / Sun Belt school for a coach with a 32.9% winning percentage at an SEC school—and for 2024 Mason will lead the Blue Raiders into battle. “Love what the future holds for this MTSU team,” Rachel Sheffield commented. “Congrats, Coach Mason!” In his first season with MTSU, 2006, Stockstill led the Blue Raiders to an appearance in the Motor City Bowl. Although MTSU fell to Central Michigan in that contest, it marked the first bowl game appearance for the program in over 40 years. Since then, Stockstill led Middle to bowl games in 10 of his 18 seasons, completing his tenure with a bowl game record of 4–6, most recently earning victories in the 2021 Bahamas Bowl against Toledo and in the 2022 Hawaii Bowl against San Diego State. Wes Pruett said the coach will be remembered for being a quality ambassador for Murfreesboro, a “legend,” he said, who helped put the town on the national map. “Most around the nation had never heard of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Over the last 18 seasons, the nation now knows where it is, who is there, and how great the university is,” Pruett said. “The foundation laid will last forever.”
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Around Town
’boro Business buzz
L’Orange European Bistro, Arisu Korean BBQ, Brasas Grill, Pastime Barber Shop, Grindstone Cowboy, Lascassas Cafe, Mr. Brews, Radical Escape
gyros, omelets, fresh juice, pasta, seafood, burgers, salads, milkshakes and more. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. The former RHK Hibachi space located at 2061 Lascassas Pk. will soon house a Korean BBQ restaurant, according to a banner hung at the restaurant space. Delicias Colombiana Restaurant will open in the former Helen’s Hot Chicken location (near Kroger) at 2042 Lascassas Pk. An opening date has not yet been announced.
BY delores elliott Arisu Korean BBQ has opened at 1855 Medical Center Pkwy. near the new Taziki’s and Tropical Smoothie Cafe. The restaurant offers Korean seafood and kimchi pancakes, baked corn with melted cheese, creamy and spicy rice cakes, edamame, dumplings, Japchae (stir-fried glass sweet potato noodles with beef and vegetables), squid, bean paste stew, tofu soup and more. “Nestled in the heart of Murfreesboro, Arisu Korean BBQ exudes warmth and welcomes guests with open arms. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu bursting with mouthwatering dishes, it’s the perfect place to unwind and savor a delightful meal. Our diverse menu caters to every palate, whether you’re looking for a leisurely dinner with loved ones, a quick lunch catch-up with friends, or a solo meal at the bar. Arisu Korean BBQ offers a relaxed setting where laughter flows as freely as the conversation,” according to the Arisu website. “Come as you are, and leave with a satisfied heart, a full stomach, and a smile.” Hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit arisukbbq.com. The Hungry Spot recently opened a permanent restaurant location at 1600 Memorial Blvd., serving ox tail, greens, fish, patty, peas and more. The Jamaican restaurant previously operated out of a food truck. Restaurant hours are Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday 12 to 6 p.m. For more information on the eatery, visit facebook.com/hungryspot.jamaica. Brasas Grill has opened at 2830 Middle Tennessee Blvd. The restaurant offers arepas, chicharrones, cachapas and other South American-inspired dishes, and 30 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
Ten Seconds Noodles has hung a small sign in one of the units at the Gateway Village on Thompson Lane.
L’Orange European Bistro has announced that it will open as a popup location at the Williamson Family Farm at 3250 Wilkinson Pk. in March, with future plans to move into a brick-and-mortar location after a year or so, according to owner-operators Stephanie and Chris Moulin. The husband-and-wife team who created the restaurant concept share a passion for food, travel and culture. The two say they have lived in and visited more than 25 countries, and enjoy taking cooking classes and learning valuable recipes from locals everywhere they go. “We are excited to bring something new to the market. We will be featuring a reasonably priced, farm-to-table prix fixe menu focused on dishes from France, Italy and Spain,” Stephanie said. “My husband is a French-trained chef.” The L’Orange mission is to provide the residents of Middle Tennessee with an authentic European-inspired dining experience in a cozy ambience that transports you to a Parisian bistro while delighting taste buds. Hours for the pop-up location may vary, so for more information, visit lorangebistro.com. is woman-owned, with hours from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 9 to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, find Brasas Grill on Instagram or Yelp. Tequila Mexican Restaurant has opened at 1432 Memorial Blvd. in the
building that was once home to Calypso Cafe and, more recently and briefly, Nirvana Lounge. Lascassas Restaurant and Cafe has opened at 2089 Lascassas Pk. The new restaurant offers a variety of meal options from breakfast dishes to dinner, A new Indian restaurant called Curries has opened at 2108 Medical Center Pkwy. The eatery offers bowls and rolls with various protein options, shrimp, chicken and lamb meals, and vegan options. Hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, visit facebook. com/curriesmurfressboro.
Mr. Brews has announced that its Murfreesboro location at 5525 Franklin Rd. will open on Jan. 21. For more information, visit facebook.com/mrbrewsmurfreesboro. Pastime Barber Shop and Pool Hall on the Murfreesboro Public Square will celebrate its 120th anniversary on Wednesday, Jan. 17, with walk-in availability from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and haircuts for only $15 that day. The locally-owned shop is located at 116 S. Maple St. and offers cuts and color services for men, women and kids—plus it has a pool hall in the back! Grind House Boxing has moved its gym location to 855 W. College St. The gym offers fitness and competition boxing training and personal training. “Whether you’re looking for the best way to build your striking skills and improve your footwork in the ring or you’re hoping to master your technique and body positioning, we have you covered here at Grind House Boxing.” For more information, visit thegrindhouseboxing.com. TN Craft Butcher, which has been operating out of a mobile truck in the area, has announced that it will open a butcher shop at 3921 Franklin Rd. For future updates, visit facebook.com/tncraftbutcher. Grindstone Cowboy owners Craig and Mindy Campbell have announced that they will open another coffee shop location in Shelbyville, in addition to the existing continued on page 29
Eagleville location. The new location is expected to open sometime in 2025. For more information, visit thegrindstonecowboy.com or facebook.com/grindstonecowboycoffee.
3415 S. Church St. near the Joe B. Jackson intersection. BR’s two existing Murfreesboro locations are at 2170 Old Fort Pkwy. and 1723 Memorial Blvd.
A new gas station is under construction on Salem Road near Middle Tennessee Boulevard.
Marlyse Moran, who formerly operated Empanada Sonata in downtown Murfreesboro, has launched Gentle Heartz Transportation, offering safe transportation—particularly to non-emergency medical appointments—for its clients. To schedule a ride, call 615-635-2927, or for more information, find Gentle Heartz Transportation on Facebook.
Snapdragon Hemp Dispensary has opened at 133 James Luscinski Dr. (near Opah and Game Trader). The new store offers a variety of hemp and delta-8 items, vape products, edibles, pet goods, THCinfused drinks and more. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday through Monday, and 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday. For more information, visit snapdragonhemp.com. Radical Escape Rooms recently opened at 1741 S. Rutherford Blvd. near Oscar’s Taco Shop and Publix. The new escape room location is family-owned, and offers three different room themes including the Immunity Quest, Exit Protocol and Secrets of the Pharaoh. Those interested can experience the games from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 to 8 p.m. Sunday. For 60 minutes of play, the cost is $30 per person, and for 90 minutes, it is $45 per person, with a minimum of two players per
The Murfreesboro Juice Bar on North Thompson Lane has officially rebranded to Main Squeeze Juice Co. Products offered by the franchise include smoothies, juices, bowls, shots, juice cleanse handbooks and more. For more information, visit mainsqueezejuiceco.com.
game and a maximum of eight. For more information, visit radicalescaperooms.com. Wells Fargo recently received permits to construct a new bank branch at 2110 Memorial Blvd., near Chick-fil-A. Wells Fargo,
which currently has a Smyrna branch location as well as a Murfreesboro ATM location, plans to open other branches in the area. Baskin-Robbins has announced that it will open a new Murfreesboro location at
Grocery Hub recently opened a new grocery store at 1932 Almaville Rd. in Smyrna. The store offers dairy products, Egyptian and Arabic foods, snacks and pantry staples as well as Boar’s Head deli meats, fresh-squeezed sugar cane juice and hot, fresh Mexican food from Taquiza El Pollo—a restaurant that operates out of the grocery store. Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday. For more information, find the Grocery Hub on Facebook. CLoSED Q&R Cafe, located near the Kroger at Broad Street and Northfield Boulevard, has announced that the bubble tea shop and bakery will close.
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TECH TALK
by byron glenn
Data Center Spurs Economic Growth Part of the cloud located in Murfreesboro Whenever someone tells you to “back your data up to the cloud,” have you ever asked yourself, “where exactly is the cloud?” Now, part of that cloud is right here in Murfreesboro. The question has scrambled our brains for years: What came first, the chicken or the egg? Although the world is still debating this question, there is no debate that in order for many large companies to invest in a community, having a data center in the city or its proximity must come first. But what is a data center? A data center is a network of computing and storage resources that enables the delivery of shared software applications and data. These centers can house large amounts of critical data and are vital to the daily functions of companies and consumers alike. As a result—whether it is a cloud, co-location or managed service—data center real estate will have increasing importance worldwide. As of September 2023, the United States, by far, has the most data centers in the world at 5,375, followed by Germany with 522 and the U.K. with 517, according to data compiled by Statista. Murfreesboro now has one of those data centers. Ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities in America, the city once struggled to attract companies to the area. “Companies that were moving to Nashville looking for sites to host their data and data center equipment overlooked Murfreesboro and Rutherford County due to those services not being available,” said Jon Hoscheit, Chief Technical Officer of Data Suites Murfreesboro, a Tier 3-ready co-location data center. Built in 2015, Data Suites Murfreesboro provides primary data security for enterprise to small business users in Middle Tennessee and secondary data security for enterprise users across the U.S. Having one of the largest data centers in the area by power and consumption is an asset. “Soon after being built, we started seeing rates dropping more than 50% in the following years due to having a good connection point. The amount of fiber and carriers coming to the area improved and made the entire county more competitive as a result,” Hoscheit said. One of the fiber carriers who came to Rutherford County is United Communications. In 2023, United Communications, a subsidiary of Middle Tennessee Electric that provides internet and phone services to businesses and residential customers in Middle Tennessee, announced an investment of $85 million to expand its fiber-based broadband service to an
additional 77,000 MTE members in Murfreesboro. Although it has been around for years, “artificial intelligence is the latest buzzword,” said Hoscheit. “The future of the data center will be a transformative hub for AI. AI is the obvious future of technology and a key driver for change and human evolution. AI is only as good as the system that delivers it. It needs proximity to the people using it, positioning us to be that delivery point for AI and the community.” Hoscheit added that part of the mission of Data Suites is to invest in the community and to remain instrumental in the Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee Tech Councils, in part by “helping local schools in our region and in Haiti by providing opportunities to send computers to places we can teach the next generation of minds to leverage technology and help the workforce.” Data centers host servers, systems and data. Data centers are the cloud. “The core foundation of what we do is provide uptime availability,” Hoscheit said. “There is enough resiliency that your data availability is always there. We have multiple megawatts of power available for consumption at any time, redundant. If something went wrong on the grid, we have generators to back it up and weeks of fuel.” As Murfreesboro’s population continues to grow, opportunities grow with it, and having a data center increases the opportunities for technological advancement for small businesses in the rural areas that need internet connectivity to run, for employees being able to work from home and for kids completing their homework. When it comes to your data, Hoscheit said that the way to protect it from being lost is to back it up. Jon Hoscheit also serves as the president of the Murfreesboro Technology Council. The group meets on the last Tuesday of every month. To find out more information about the Tech Council, visit murfreesborotechnology.com. For more on Data Suites Murfreesboro, visit mydatasuites.com. Byron Glenn is a Business Development Specialist with Business System Solutions; he is a speaker, business consultant, nonprofit co-founder, and Murfreesboro Tech Council board member. If you are looking for IT-managed services for your business, you can visit bssconsulting.com or call 615-400-8595. boropulse.com * January 2024 * 33
Opinion
#FREEYOURCHILDREN by tiffany boyd
school choice scam Tennessee officials selling Education Freedom Scholarship Act before it has been fully introduced Happy New Year! May 2024 be the year that you take control of your children’s education, if you haven’t already. Even if you are directing and leading your children’s education, there is a threat looming on the horizon. An elaborate scam that threatens parental rights and educational freedoms is being sold to families. If you have been following Free YOUR Children, you have seen the warnings that have been shared regarding Gov. Bill Lee’s Education Freedom Scholarship Act. As of the writing of this article, the exact bill still has not been introduced, therefore, the details remain to be seen. Ironically, meetings are being held with elected officials in which parents are being encouraged to go ahead and sign up for a program resulting from a bill that hasn’t even been filed yet, much less passed. One such meeting was recently held in Jackson County, Tennessee, hosted by the Jackson County Republican Party. Parents in attendance reported that when they asked their elected officials specific questions regarding details of the Education Freedom Scholarship Act, no one could give them answers. Instead, they were being encouraged to sign up. Why are parents being encouraged to sign up for a program that 34 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
hasn’t even been introduced to the legislature for vote? What are they signing up for? Is this the type of government that Tennesseans are willing to settle for? Government strings are attached to the monies that parents are being promised, as is always the case with Universal School Choice. School boards and elected officials are already calling for accountability from home-school families and private schools that choose to fall for the trap and take the “school choice” money. Unfortunately, many unsuspecting parents are begging for government intrusion because they have been brainwashed to believe it is the government’s responsibility to provide their children with an education. Many of these same parents are conservatives who speak despairingly about families that receive food stamps
and government health care, yet they are lining up with their hands out to receive “welfare education.” These are the same conservatives that recoil at socialized medicine but are willing to abdicate their children’s education to the government. We have become a nation of consumers seeking comfort and financial gain ahead of the wellbeing of our most precious gift, our children. The community school model has been adopted nationwide with the ultimate goal of seeking to replace the parents and transforming our children into perfect global citizens. This model aims for the “community school” to provide for all of your children’s needs. Children’s mental health, medical needs, food, clothing, and sometimes even shelter will be provided by the local “community school.” Your children are cash cows. Schools are cashing in on children’s health care by billing Medicaid, partnering with outside service providers and leveraging federal funding. All of this is being done without parental consent. School choice is expanding this overreach by transforming all forms of education into government-controlled education: welfare. What the government funds, it runs. Individuals who are advocating for “school choice” are advocating for the expansion of communism and the demise of our Constitutional Republic. This is not freedom.
what you can do
God has blessed Free YOUR Children with a platform that allows us to be a watchman on the wall. We are at a crucial point in history. Our children are at stake. We are traveling and hosting seminars in order to educate and equip parents to effectively fight to protect their God-given rights. There is much work to be done and it needs to be done quickly. Free YOUR Children needs your help. If you would like more information about how you can help, contact me at freeyourchildren@gmail.com.
“Many of these same parents are conservatives who speak despairingly about families that receive food stamps and government health care, yet they are lining up with their hands out to receive “welfare education.” These are the same conservatives that recoil at socialized medicine but are willing to abdicate their children’s education to the government.”
Free YOUR Children is under attack by big tech. The Free YOUR Children radio show was censored and over 300 radio show posts were removed from Facebook. Facebook removed every post regarding the radio show. When censorship occurs, that usually means that the victim is hovering over the target. Free YOUR Children is thrilled to be announcing new changes to our radio programming soon. Previously aired shows can be found on the Free YOUR Children Spotify channel. What the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good. He is faithful and has consistently provided us with opportunities to further our mission. The ministry is expanding to include a Rumble channel and we are also on Telegram, Signal, Gab, X and Instagram. We have some exciting new projects that will be announced soon. The freeyourchildren.com website is currently being revamped.
COMING UP
Free YOUR Children will be in Cookeville on Jan 4 presenting a seminar, hosted by the Cookeville chapter of the Tennessee Firearms Association. On Jan. 18, Free YOUR Children will participate in a Town Hall with Gary Humble of Tennessee Stands to discuss the Education Freedom Scholarship Act. The Free YOUR Children ministry experienced explosive growth in 2023. We are humbled and honored to have the opportunity to educate and encourage parents and to continue to fight for parental and educational rights. We will soon be announcing a date for a protest in peaceful opposition to the Education Freedom Scholarship Act. Follow Free YOUR Children on all social media platforms for updates and join us in the fight to protect our parental, educational and Constitutional rights. May 2024 be a victorious year. Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Free YOUR Children, a homeschool advocate, consultant, speaker and the founder and administrator of Middle Tennessee Christian Homeschool Connection. She holds a B.S. degree in interdisciplinary studies from MTSU. She is a wife of 30 years and mother to five children, grandmother to two. She is a former tenured public school teacher. She and her husband have home educated for 18 years. Contact her at freeyourchildren@gmail.com.
Constitution Study
BY Paul Engel
photo courtesy of anna lowe / pexels
Will America Be Destroyed From the Inside?
In 1837, Daniel Webster wrote: I apprehend no danger to our country from a foreign foe . . . Our destruction, should it come at all, will be from another quarter. From the inattention of the people to the concerns of their government, from their carelessness and negligence, I must confess that I do apprehend some danger. — Daniel Webster, June 1, 1837 I’ve been thinking about that statement lately. I also came across a video that’s part of an interview with Soviet defector Yuri Bezmanov. Mr Bezmanov was a former KGB agent who defected to Canada in 1970. During an 1984 interview with author and Freedom Force International founder G. Edward Griffin, he exposed a long-term Soviet plan to defeat America not by force of arms, but through psychological warfare.
Daniel Webster
As Webster warned, America is not being destroyed from without, but from within. Our apathy about what the federal government does, our carelessness in dealing with the bad actors that inevitably enter government services, and our negligent attitude when the Constitution is violated, has certainly led the United States to the brink of collapse. Just think of the things the American people have blindly trusted the government for: retirement, health care, food and drug safety, education and energy, just to name a few. Yet no matter how often government fails, the answer always seems to be a call to give them more. However, there is one area where Mr. Webster appears to have gotten things wrong—there was indeed a danger from a foreign foe. They used our carelessness and
neglect to not only accelerate our destruction, but also to supplant the American way with a collectivist and communist agenda.
Yuri Bezmanov
As a former KBG officer, Bezmanov was aware of many of the methods used by that organization to subvert the United States. In his 1984 interview, he detailed some of these techniques, starting with “ideological subversion” (grammatical flaws are as they appear in the original transcript). Ideological subversion is is the process which is legitimate overt and open you you can see it with your own eyes . . . The main emphasis of the KGB is not in the area of intelligence at all according to my opinion and opinion of many defectors of my caliber only about 15% of time, money, and manpower is spent on espionage as such the other 85% is a slow process which we call either ideological subversion or active measures . . . psychological warfare what it basically means is to change the perception of reality of every American to such an extent that despite of the abundance of information no one is able to come to sensible conclusions in the interest of defending themselves their families their community and their country. It’s a great brainwashing uh process which goes very slow and it’s divided in in four basic stages. — Yuri Bezmanov, G. Edward Griffin Interview Transcript, 1984 Bezmenov goes on to describe ideological subversion in some detail. It takes from 15 to 20 years to demoralize a nation. Why that many years? Because this is the minimum number of years which requires to educate one generation of students . . . Marxism, Leninism ideology is being pumped into
the soft heads of of at least three generations of American students without being challenged or counterbalanced by the basic values of Americanism, American patriotism. The result you can see. Most of the people who graduated in ’60s, dropouts or half baked intellectuals are now occupying the positions of power in the government, civil service, business, mass media, educational system. You are stuck with them you cannot get rid of them they are contaminated they are programmed to think and react to certain stimuli in a certain pattern. You cannot change their mind even if you if you expose them to authentic information . . . the process of demoralization is complete and irreversible. — Yuri Bezmanov In 1960, then-First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, Nikita Khrushchev, spoke at the United Nations, stating that Communism would outlast the United States. While the 1990s made it look like Mr. Khrushchev was wrong, it seems the KGB’s plans may have won in the long run. Today we have people who refuse to believe video evidence of the atrocities committed by Hamas against civilians in Israel. Others continue to line up to get vaccinated in the face of evidence that these “vaccines” are neither effective nor safe. As Bezmenov describes, there is more to come. Unlike in present United States there will be no place for dissent in in future Marxist Leninist America uh here you can you can get uh popular like Daniel Ellsberg and filthy rich like Jane Fonda for being dissident for criticizing your Pentagon. In future these people will be simply squashed like cockroaches nobody’s going to pay them nothing for their beautiful noble ideas of equality. — Yuri Bezmanov Today, we have not only governments but private actors censoring information they don’t like. Cancel-culture attempts to punish individual and businesses for expressing ideas contrary to the agenda of the apparatchik. As Bezmanov describes, this phase of the demoralization of America was completed even before his 1984 interview, and we have been moved far, far beyond what the KGB had hoped. Even if you start right now here this minute you start educating new generation of American it will still take you 15 to 20 years to turn the tide of uh of ideological perception of reality back to normal and patriotism. — Yuri Bezmanov Ladies and gentlemen, this was 40 years ago! We could have turned the demoralization around twice, yet the American people were
unwilling to do so. Rather, we have let the American education system poison the minds of several generations with little if any challenge. The KGB may have started this process, but ultimately, we have done it to ourselves. The next stage is destabilization this time subverter does not care about your ideas . . . what matters is essentials, economy, foreign relations, defense systems. — Yuri Bezmanov Have you seen how the collectivist ideas have taken over our businesses, foreign relations, and defense? Businesses are being forced to hire people based on the color of their skin rather than their skills. Under Obama we turned our back on two of our staunchest allies, the United Kingdom and Israel, to support China and Iran. The Defense Department not only has placed the “climate change” agenda above national defense, but the transgender, racial and sexualization agendas as well. The next stage is crisis. It may take only up to six weeks to to bring a country to the verge of crisis you can see it in in Central America now and after crisis with a violent change of of power structure and economy you have so-called the period of normalization . . . promise people all kind of goodies and the paradise on Earth uh to to destabilize your economy to eliminate the principle of free market competition and to put a big brother government in Washington DC. — Yuri Bezmanov How many crises have we had since 1984? The first and second Gulf Wars, 9/11, the Afghanistan War, the dot-com bust, the housing crisis, the Patriot Act, the surveillance state, COVID, the 2020 election, and the January 6 insurrections. Now we’re told that these are normal. This time bomb Mr. Bezmanov has been talking about has been ticking for almost four decades; four decades of propaganda being pumped into the minds of the rising generations. Four decades of people being told the lie is the truth. If We the People wish to remain free, it’s up to us to force the government to stop aiding the collectivists. I don’t mean denying their rights, but stop aiding and abetting those who are trying to destroy this country. Stop federal funding of education. Stop subsidizing the collectivist agenda. Make the politicians more afraid of disappointing the American people than their donors and political parties. We can’t expect the same government that is promoting collectivism to teach our children the spirit of liberty. That job falls to us. boropulse.com * January 2024 * 35
Sports
column by “Z-TrAIn”
talk titanman1984@gmail.com The Train Daddy is back with sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk. All aboard! Goodbye ’23 and hello ’24. What should I talk about in this article? With 2024 being a fresh start for us all—including the Tennessee Titans—let’s spend some time airing out those grievances for this daggum team I spend so much of my energy on! Was 2023 a good year? I guess it depends on who you ask. For myself it was a good year, no complaints. My business is going well, my family is healthy and my dogs are healthy; with my New Year’s diet starting Jan. 1, hopefully in four months—and after 20–40 pounds lost—I will then be able to say I am healthy. Was it a good year for the Tennessee Titans? Can you milk a chicken? NO! What a disastrous year for this franchise. I go out of my way when talking about this team to focus on the positives, but they are few and far between this season. First let me say, aside from the Titans’ 2023 first-round draft pick Peter Skoronski, the rest of this offensive line needs to pack its bags and never return. These starters wouldn’t make most teams’ backup rotation. This Titans team has plenty of issues, but none worse than protecting its signal caller. It wouldn’t matter what quarterback was calling plays for the Titans, it’s dangerous work back there! The simple fact that Will Levis was able to generate excitement with those liabilities protecting him is a sure sign Levis has what it takes to be a starter in this league. Titans fans should be excited about Levis even with his rookie mistakes. Under all this pressure and despite a horrendous line, he showed poise. Levis has a cannon with a quick release and his passion is unmatched. He is a fun player if he pans out. I can’t even blame him for forcing it. What else was he supposed to do? Give him another training camp and some actual protection, and he may be a franchise guy. Levis has shown me enough to be given the keys to this offense entering 2024. Titans GM Ran Carthon has it made: he has a QB on a rookie contract for years to come and has more cash to play with entering this off-season than any other team in the NFL. I can respect Ran in 2023, his first year as GM not totally blowing up the team like many expected. It didn’t work out, but he attempted to compete. The 2024 season, for all intents and purposes, was always going to be Ran’s beginning. There are no more excuses now, no blaming former GM J-Rob for the state of this roster. Ran has the salary-cap 36 * January 2024 * boropulse.com
photo courtesy of houstontexans.com; will levis by kevin sabitus
Titans Disastrous 2023 Season On to 2024
space and he is the one getting paid to make the big decisions regarding how this newlook Titans team will be built. What else is there to say about this team? It wasn’t so long ago that the Titans overcame a ridiculous number of injuries and still managed to take the number-one seed in the AFC. That’s why MIKE Vrabel was named NFL coach of the year in 2021. I still believe in Vrabel, but I hear the concerns from Titan Nation. This team has fallen apart these last two seasons and Vrabel appears lost. It’s more than just him seeming constantly angry. It seems to me that he would rather be doing anything else every time he talks to the media. Maybe I am wrong? I am still rolling with Vrabel and putting trust in him to prepare these men for the game, but his leash is short if this coming season
doesn’t show promise. It wasn’t long ago at all that Coach Vrabel’s job was one of the safest in the NFL. I complained about the offense and coaches, so I reckon it’s time to complain some on the defense. I don’t have much to say here; the group wasn’t awful by any means and outshone its counterpart, but this 2023 defense was very average, in terms of both its rushing defense and passing defense. If I were to carry anything from this team over to 2024, it would be the historically good red zone numbers that this defense put up. This group has the 4th-best mark in the entire NFL since 2014 and the best mark any Titans defense has ever put up, as far as stopping teams from scoring once they crossed the 20-yard line. Opposing offenses scored touchdowns on just 38% of their trips into the red zone against this Titans team. This group looked lost outside of the 20, but once an opponent was knocking on the door, they locked up. The stout red zone defense was probably a big reason that this team also led the league in one-possession losses with 7 on the season. The only other thing I can think of that I would carry over would be Ryan GOAThouse! I truly hope he is healing well, and that the punter’s leg is the same next year. Ryan Stonehouse, two years into his professional career, was doing unheard of things at his position. Dude is an absolute cheat code and easily has been the best punter in the league these past couple of seasons. Nobody kicks them further! That’s why his cleats currently sit at the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. I will end my Titans rant by saying I will
always love this team. It’s a passion and pain that will follow me into my elder years. I have only one demand: that they win at least one Lombardi before I die! I could die tomorrow but I imagine I have at least 40 seasons left in me, which would take me to 80 years old. Just ONE, Titans! One in the next 40 years. Let me rant about one more thing. The NFL presents its awards after the season wraps up, and one of the big ones is Comeback Player of the Year. My vote down the stretch was Baker Mayfield, but I am currently writing this after the Bucs lost to the Saints. The Bucs were all but written off after Tom Brady, but Baker, to everyone’s surprise, has them fighting this season. Old man Joe Flacco has burst onto the scene throwing 300-plus-yard games like it’s nothing, and has the Browns in the fight. Yet more than likely the award will be given to Damar Hamlin, the Bills safety who went into cardiac arrest on the field last season and is back to playing football. “Back to playing football” may be a reach, as Hamlin still hasn’t even registered over 20 snaps on the season. I hate the idea of giving Hamlin this award to appease the touchy-feely crowd. We all know this award is won by performance on the field. I find Damar Hamlin’s story amazing, and I am very happy he is back doing what he loves, but we need a new award for Hamlin because he isn’t Comeback Player of the Year. Maybe we make a new award and call it Inspirational Player of the Year. Depending on how the final week in the NFL pans out I would vote Baker Mayfield or Joe Flacco, but stop the pandering—it isn’t Damar Hamlin. I still owe you something controversial. Easy enough for me! Biology matters in sports. Until this is acknowledged across the board in competitive athletics, there will continue to be a lack of integrity in female sports. It’s absolute insanity allowing biological males to compete with biological women. We have gender separation for good reasons in most sports. If biology doesn’t matter, let’s just end gender separation in sports. Polls show overwhelmingly that people are not okay with this nonsense. As we head into 2024 it’s time for more female athletes to take a stand and speak out, regardless of the consequences. If this nonsense is allowed to continue, female sports is doomed. The Z-Train is ready to roll back into the station. To all my loyal readers, thank you. To the haters, thank you! I wish you all a Happy New Year. Yee-yee Tennessee!
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money matters
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BY SEAN MORAN
New Year, New Financial Plan Charting your path to prosperity in 2024 Welcome to 2024! The clock has struck a new year, leaving many of us reflecting on the past and brimming with aspirations for the future. Amidst numerous other new year’s resolutions, financial goals often hold an important, but challenging place. We find we have a desire to improve our well-being and build a secure future. But where to even begin? The truth is, many people stumble at the starting line, overwhelmed by the intricacies of financial planning. This year, let’s break down those barriers and pave the way for a year of financial triumphs. Be encouraged, because even if you don’t succeed at first or it takes longer than you planned, getting started is the most important step to building momentum. When you work with a financial advisor, they are there to help encourage and motivate you to reach your goals.
every dollar saved, becomes a tangible marker of progress, fueling your motivation and keeping you on track.
Embrace the Journey
Visualizing your progress is a powerful motivator. Set up a budget, track your spending and watch unnecessary expenses dwindle. You will see your savings and investment accounts grow, and create a habit of savings. Celebrate these small wins! Every victory, however big or small, contributes to your ultimate goal. If you stumble, remember, it’s just a minor detour on the journey. It’s always a good time to get back on track, re-evaluate your plan, and keep moving forward.
Saving and Budgeting
Often, our good intentions fall to the wayside because of the business of everyday life. Bills are paid, whatever is left over gets spent, and before we know it, another month, quarter and year vanishes without a trace of savings. Automate your finances to break free from this cycle. Set up automatic transfers to your retirement accounts, savings goals or investment portfolios. By treating these contributions like required expenses, you ensure they’re prioritized, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your life. Imagine it as paying yourself first, a guaranteed investment in your future.
Some specific tools for financial success: Boost your emergency fund: Aim for 3–6 months of living expenses for the unexpected. Set target savings: Whether it’s a dream vacation, a down payment on a house, or a comfortable retirement, define your goals and develop a strategic plan to reach them. Master your budget: Track your income and expenses, identify areas for improvement and cut back on unnecessary spending. Remember, your budget is not a rigid ruler, but it should be a flexible guide to aligning your finances with your aspirations. Prioritize debt repayment: Tackle high-interest debt like credit cards first, implementing a structured plan to conquer it piece by piece. Remember, achieving financial wellness is a journey, not a destination. There will be bumps along the way, moments of doubt, and the occasional setback. But with a plan, a little effort and a commitment to learning, you can build a secure and fulfilling financial future. Let this new year be the year you take control, embrace financial literacy and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. Let’s step into 2024 with purpose. Embrace the power of knowledge, automation and SMART goals. Track your progress, celebrate your wins, and don’t be afraid to adjust your course as needed.
SMART Goals
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is
Knowledge Is Power
The first step to financial success is building a solid foundation of financial literacy. This doesn’t require a master’s degree in finance, but mainly a dedicated effort to learn and understand. Reading books, exploring online resources, attending workshops or, for personalized guidance, seeking the expertise of a financial advisor (like myself ) will help you pave the path you want to follow. Remember, the key is to start somewhere. Don’t wait for all the pieces to fall into place before taking the first step. Every bit of knowledge gained today brings you closer to your financial goals.
Automation
Vague aspirations like “I want to be rich” or “I hope to retire by age 55” rarely translate into tangible results. Instead, embrace the power of SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Ditch the generic “save more money” and replace it with “I will save $200 per month for the next 12 months towards a down payment on a house.” This clarity creates a roadmap, outlining the steps required to reach your destination. Every milestone achieved,
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. boropulse.com * January 2024 * 37
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Live Exceptionally...Well! BY JENNIFER DURAND
The Power of Now Did you know the word “now” is used 1,323 times in the Bible? What is the significance of NOW? The definitions of this word are “at once,” “immediately,” “at the present time” and “without delay.” It implies a sense of urgency, a need to do something right away. This can be difficult for procrastinators or even the best of planners. What if we approached everything we wanted to do or accomplish and added the word “now” at the end of the sentence? Some suggestions could be: • I am happy NOW. • I am loved NOW. • I choose kindness NOW. • I am going to start a project NOW. • I am going to be a better friend NOW. • I am going to do the laundry NOW. • I am going to exercise NOW. • I am going to get out of bed NOW. • I am going to stop complaining NOW.
• I am going to start planning that trip NOW. This list could be endless. Anything you have been putting on the back burner or are waiting until you feel like doing it could be added here. Change happens when we put the power of NOW to the idea. “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” — Alice Walker Many fall into the trap of “when” instead of the action based “now.” Examples are “when I finish getting my degree, I am going to pursue my dream job,” “when the kids are grown I am going to do things for myself ” or “when I finish paying off my debt I am going to have more fun.” If you applied the “now” action plan to those same statements they sound very different: “I am going to pursue my dream job NOW,” “I am going to do things for myself
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NOW” and “I am going to have more fun NOW.” You can be working toward something like getting an education, raising children and paying off debt while still embracing the power of now. Putting things off until some magical time is an illusion. Now is when you apply the sense of urgency, the immediacy, without delay attitude. “If not now, when?” The use of the word now also signifies that there is no waiting period. Good is available to you now. Abundance is within reach now. Beauty surrounds you now. Love is present now. Health is happening now. Relationship harmony is possible now. Happy or sad is a choice now. Imagine that! There is no waiting period when you choose now. All that we could ever want or need is now. It’s easy to get lost in limited thinking. Thinking that we have to be in a better position, location, have a better education, a different ethnicity or a host of other labels. So much information and misinformation swirls around like a force of nature that makes us buy into such gross limitations. If you can think it and dream it—it is possible. One small way to practice this way of thinking and being is utilizing the power of now. Mel Robbins, author of The 5 Second Rule shares how to apply the 5 Second Rule
Countdown to taking action. It helps redirect you to take charge of your mind and break the pattern of overthinking and self doubt. It also helps in transforming bad habits into good ones and taking control of your life. If you need a brief countdown to now, the 5 second rule is a great one to apply. One small example: Your alarm goes off. Instead of hitting snooze, you countdown 5-4-3-2-1 and get up! Another example: You can’t find anything in your closet because it is a mess. You need to go through it and purge. 5-4-3-2-1, start with one wall or the floor or one section. If you can’t accomplish the whole thing now, at least you’ve begun. When you take this kind of action towards anything in your life, you are creating momentum. Momentum is what will keep you moving forward and delighting in real change. Say “yes” to now. 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, an InterPlay leader and is licensed in massage therapy, body work and somatic integration. Visit nurturenook. com or facebook.com/nurturenookdayspa or by calling (615) 896-7110.
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