May 2017 Murfreesboro Pulse

MAY 2017 / VOL. 12, ISSUE 5 / FREE

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

FROM INDIA

Father of local teen claims son was wrongfully detained by RCSO deputy Interview with MTSU basketball star Reggie Upshaw Summer sports camps for kids and teens Murfreesboro Bike Walk initiative

with Love

Pastor John Spurgeon has made it his mission to minister to the inmates of Rutherford County

IN MUSIC

COSMIC COLLECTIVE / JAZZFEST / PATTYPALOOZA / MAYBE APRIL / BLUE MATCHES / BUBBA SPARXXX

Contents

WORD FROM THE EDITOR

22 IN EVERY ISSUE

FEATURES

4 Events

9

JAZZFEST The annual celebration of jazz returns to the Murfreesboro Square May 5–6.

18

BIKE WALK MURFREESBORO New advocacy group wants to create a safe environment for local pedestrian and cycle traffic.

22

THIS MONTH

Renaissance Fest, Healing Field, Barfield Beach party, and more!

28

BLACK HOLLER Middle Tennessee filmmaking team debuts proudly cheesy and campy movie.

MOVIES

Free Fire Ghosts in the Shell

LOCAL CONCERTS

30 News

Bubba Sparxxx, Hoodoo Men and more!

Uncle Dave Macon Days 2017 award winners; Pattypalooza ALBUM REVIEWS

Blue Matches, Maybe April

14 Food RESTAURANT

The Hoof

Berries with balsamic

FAREWELL REGGIE UPSHAW One of the all-time great Blue Raiders talks with the Pulse before leaving Murfreesboro.

Movies LIVING ROOM CINEMA

RECIPE

38

38 Sports

8 Sounds MUSIC NOTES

FROM INDIA WITH LOVE Pastor John Spurgeon has made it his mission to minister to the inmates of Murfreesboro.

26

9

20 Living GARDENING

Companion planting

See the Schedule Inside!

Robert Mapplethorpe

SUMMER SPORTS AND FITNESS CAMPS

Some local camps for kids and teens SPORTS TALK

Titans select Corey Davis with their firstround NFL draft pick.

RIGHT TO DETAIN?

44

NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM

THE STOCKARD REPORT

Family objects to long holding period

Pleads and crowds in general sessions BUSINESS BUZZ

Jack’s Place, Kitchen Fresh, EscapePoint, Two-Tone

36 Art

Opinion State Rep. Sparks just won’t quit in his celebration of racism.

VIEWS OF A CONSERVATIVE

Neither U.S. nor North Korea want war with each other.

MONEY PULSE

EXHIBIT

MTSU student works at Murfree Gallery THEATER

Little Shop of Horrors at Center for the Arts

Homebuying tips

LIVE EXCEPTIONALLY . . . WELL

Are you settling, or setting the standard?

VISIT US AT BOROPULSE.COM FOR MORE!

Publisher/ Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo

Art Director: Advertising: Sarah Mayo Don Clark Copy Editor: Leslie Russell-Yost Steve Morley

Contributors: Dylan Skye Aycock, John Connor Coulston, Greg Crittenden, Tanner Dedmon, Bryce Harmon, Bernard James, Joseph Kathmann, Chantell Kennedy-Sheehan, Zach Maxfield, Edwina Shannon, Jay Spight, Andrea Stockard, Sam Stockard, Norbert Thiemann, Phil Valentine

To carry the PULSE at your business, or to submit letters, stories and photography: bracken@boropulse.com 10 N. Public Square, Murfreesboro, TN 37130 615-796-6248

Copyright © 2017, The Murfreesboro Pulse, 10 N. Public Square, Murfreesboro, TN 37130.

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

SIGN UP to receive our weekly digital newsletter at BoroPulse.com/Newsletter

WE’VE BEEN BLESSED. So many fine advertisers have made the choice to support the Pulse and use this locally-owned and locally-inspired outlet to reach the people of the the ’Boro. Jump on in! There’s room for more.

Please consider supporting these operations that you see in the following pages. They are the reason that everyone in town has the opportunity to grab a copy of the Pulse each month for free.

Murfreesboro remains a nice market in which to operate a business.

The town seems to have some development-minded leaders who envision the local growth continuing with no end in sight.

This is good for the economy and the established businesses, I suppose—more consumers, more businesses, more money circulating.

The personality of Murfreesboro continues to evolve.

This town is not quite like Nashville, not quite like Franklin. They are fine neighbors, but we are Murfreesboro!

In the midst of this continuous growth, one local group aims to advocate for the pedestrian and cycling communities here. Bike Walk Murfreesboro wants to make sure those risking their lives walking down busy Murfreesboro streets with no sidewalks or shoulders can one day get to where they need to go—on foot or by bike—with perhaps two or three feet between their person and the whizzing motorized traffic.

This Mother’s Day month, a big thanks goes to the mothers out there for giving birth to us all! Remember, every one of us used to live in a woman for a brief time.

Amazing!

And even though I act crazy, I gotta thank the Lord that you made me . . . you are appreciated, dear mama! as 2Pac says.

Happy May. Ride a bike, Fly a kite, climb, swim, laugh, play a game.

Fill your mind and your life and your social media feed with the beautiful things that you enjoy.

Is this “focusing on the positive” or is it a “head in the sand” approach? Not much different, I suppose, but it seems to work OK. Have a massage, get your rest, try a new restaurant, try a new sport or activity, sing karaoke . . .

The area contains many fine individuals and organizations promoting art, music, food and positive vibes.

Whether you find yourself grooving at JazzFest, climbing at the Ascent, exploring the Renaissance Fest, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, attending a Hoodoo Men or Bubba Sparxxx show, onstage performing in a musical, appearing before a judge, serving tables, cleaning floors or driving for Uber—do your best, rejoice, respect others, be in the moment and enjoy things just the way they are.

As always, this is your Pulse, Murfreesboro. Let us know what you think, and what you’d like to see next month; thanks for making it what it is!

Peace, BRACKEN MAYO Publisher/Editor in Chief

Events COMPILED BY

ANDREA STOCKARD

Send event information to murfreesboropulse@yahoo.com

ALL MONTH LONG TENNESSEE RENAISSANCE FEST The Tennessee Renaissance Festival is back. Every May the village of Covington Glen, nestled in the Medieval hills betwixt Murfreesboro and Franklin, hosts the event, drawing fairies, pirates, knights and ladies from near and far.

The festival opens from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in May, plus Memorial Day. Festivities include jousting, turkey legs, man-powered rides, costumes, shows, music, deep-fried Oreos and other popular snacks from the Old World, castle tours, mazes and more. Catch music from the Secret Commonwealth, Paulo Garbanzo the juggler, the queen’s knighting ceremony, a bird show, comedy from Axl the Sot and lots of other performers and merchants.

For tickets and more information, visit tnrenfest.com.

MAY 4–5 GOLF CLASSIC FOR SPECIAL KIDS Support the 18th Annual Special Kids Golf Classic at Indian Hills Golf Club (405 Calumet Trace) Thursday, May 4, and Friday, May 5, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Registration is $600 per team of four or $150 per individual.

Funds raised from the tournament support pediatric therapy and nursing services for children with special needs at Special Kids.

For more information, call (615) 893-4892 or visit specialkidstn.com/golfclassic.

MAY 5 SHAKESBEER Discovery Center’s Shakesbeer returns Friday, May 5, at 7 p.m. The beer-tasting event will feature a new Steam beer by Panther Creek Brews, in celebration of the STEAM program focusing on science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM).

Attendees must be 21 or older. Enjoy being outdoors at the serene Murfree Spring natural area with theatrical performances by Murfreesboro Little Theatre and M-PROV along with a variety of craft brews. All proceeds benefit the Discovery Center. For tickets and more information, call (615) 890-2300 or visit explorethedc.org/shakesbeer.

MAY 5 CINCO DE MAYO MURDER MYSTERY DINNER 4 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

Due to popular demand, Oaklands Mansion returns with its third murder mystery dinner of the year (901 N. Maney Ave.) Friday, May 5, at 6 p.m. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with margaritas, mayhem and the mob with dinner by Chef Jeff served in Maney Hall while solving the mystery. Professional actors lead the show as guests gather clues to identify the murderer. The scene is set in a 1920s speakeasy atmosphere. Guests are invited to dress in themed period attire or a festive “south of the border” look. For tickets and more information, contact (615) 809-4776 or events@oaklandsmansion.org.

Center (945 E. Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon).

For more information, call (615) 364-1828 or visit bothbarrelspromotions.com.

MAY 6 DECORATION DAY

Come out Friday, May 5, 6–11 p.m. and Saturday, May 6, from noon–10 p.m. for one of Murfreesboro’s biggest annual traditions on the historic Murfreesboro square, JazzFest.

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy live jazz.

Check out more information about the 2017 JazzFest on pages 9 and 10. For more, visit mainstreetjazzfest.net.

Join the African American Heritage Society on Saturday, May, 6, for the first part of the Decoration Day program beginning with a breakfast for the first 100 participants at Ebenezer Primitive Baptist Church (4122 Old Nashville Hwy.) at 8 a.m. A landmark sign will be placed in front of the church; the historical cemetery at the church has served the community since the late 1800s. Afterwards the group moves to the cemetery at the Stones River National Battlefield (3501 Old Nashville Hwy.) from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. with singing in the big tent, games for children, food vendors and speakers. Immediately following the Civil War, Decoration Day was a time for African Americans to celebrate in their communities, particularly in the South. For more information, contact (615) 218-0706.

MAY 5–6

MAY 7

REDNECK RUMBLE

CITY COUNCIL TOWN HALL MEETING

MAY 5–6 JAZZFEST

Join a Southern tradition appreciating pre-’68 hot rods, customs, rats and bikes along with a swap meet Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6, beginning at 10 a.m. each day. Meet “Voodoo” Larry Grobe and his awesome Voodoo Sahara at James Ward AG

The Murfreesboro City Council holds another in its series of Town Hall Meetings at Olive Branch Church (1115 Minerva Dr.) Sunday, May 7, from 3–5 p.m., to share ideas, suggestions and concerns about

the city with issues ranging from road and traffic concerns to plans for parks.

Responses to citizen questions can be viewed at murfreesborotn.gov. For more information, contact (615) 848-3245 or mbrowning@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 7 MARK McCURTIES CHRISTIAN SCIENCE LECTURE Join Lecturer Mark McCurties Sunday, May 7, at 1:30 p.m. for “Making Meaningful Change: How God’s Love Can Change Your Life and the World” at Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave.). Admission is free and open to the public and is sponsored by First Church of Christ, Scientist. For more information, call (615) 896-2256 or visit christiansciencemurfreesboro.com.

MAY 7 TENNESSEE VALLEY WINDS CONCERT Tennessee Valley Winds, a community volunteer wind band, presents a concert at Old Fort Park on Sunday, May 7, from 2–3 p.m. For more information, contact (615) 893-2141 or mtate@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 9 COMMISSIONER MANY-BEARS GRINDER Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Many-Bears Grinder will

VISIT BOROPULSE.COM/EVENTS FOR MORE COMMUNITY EVENTS

share her experiences with Rutherford Cable members and guests at the organization’s upcoming breakfast meeting Tuesday, May 9, from 7:15–9 a.m. at Stones River Country Club (1830 N.W. Broad St.).

During her 35-year career in the military, Grinder faced some demanding assignments, and she discusses challenges she confronted in a male-dominated field and strategies she used. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and includes breakfast. For reservations and more information visit rutherfordcable.org.

MAY 13

Oaklands Mansion Free Day Visit Oaklands Mansion (901 N. Maney Ave.) on this rare free occasion and step into the past experiencing civilian demonstrations on the grounds from 19th Alabama Civilian Civil War Reenactors Saturday, May 13, from 10–4 p.m. Learn the story of what civilians traveling with occupation forces would have been doing in and around Murfreesboro during the Civil War. In Maney Hall, the Tennessee State Button Society displays its collections of vintage buttons. Enjoy period games on the lawn, children’s dress-up, nature walks to the spring and the heritage vegetable garden while touring the mansion. Grab a bite to eat from Puckett’s Trolley and a drink from the Off the Wagon craft beer truck. At 2 p.m., make your way over to the field along Highland Avenue for a vintage baseball exhibition by members of the Tennessee Association of Vintage Baseball. For more information visit oaklandsmansion.org.

MAY 11 & 20 WINE KIT CLASS AND BEER KIT CLASS Join Let’s Make Wine (109 E. Main St.) Thursday, May 11, for a wine kit class from 7–8 p.m. to learn the four basic steps in making 30 bottles of quality wine in four weeks. On Saturday, May 20, from 11 a.m.–noon, learn the basic steps to home brewing your own craft beer from the MidState Brewsters and Brew Club members with interactive demonstrations. Admission is free. For more information, visit the Let’s Make Wine Facebook page.

MAY 11 FREE PANCAKE BREAKFAST TO HONOR WILSON COUNTY Join the Mt. Juliet Keller Williams Realty office as they partner with The Wilson County Veteran’s Services Office, American Legion of Mt Juliet and Lebanon, Lebanon’s Vietnam Veterans of America, Veteran of Foreign Wars of America in a salute to veterans with a free pancake breakfast on Thursday, May 11, at the TN Army National Guard Armory (1010 Leeville Pk., Lebanon) from 7–9:30 a.m. Enjoy sausage, coffee and drinks with the presentation of colors and benediction at 7:15 a.m. The public is invited to attend and honor veterans with a donation of a non-perishable food item to be distributed that afternoon to veterans and members of S.C.A.N. The Senior Citizens Awareness Network of Wilson County Inc. For more information, contact (615) 807-0340 or wdyes68@gmail.com.

MAY 12 BARFIELD BEACH PARTY Come to Barfield Crescent Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.), for a real beach party Friday, May 12, at 5 p.m. with over 60 tons of sand used to create the beach before it is used throughout the park systems. Have fun with music, dancing and a variety of games and activities. For more information, contact (615) 907-2251 or athletics@murfreesborotn.gov.

UNTIL MAY 14 OPERATION EDUCATION SHOE DRIVE Operation Education Animal Rescue’s goal to collect 2,500 pairs of shoes to raise $1,000 for dogs in need ends May 14.

These funds help to provide a safe and healthy haven for abused and neglected animals and is based on the number of pairs collected. Donations also support micro-enterprises in developing nations and reduce what goes into landfills. Donated shoes are redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network in developing nations such as Haiti, Honduras and other nations in Central America and Africa; proceeds feed, clothe and house their families. Collection boxes are at Murfreesboro Athletic Club, Petsense and Southern Veterinary Center. For more information, call (615) 585-2365.

(423) 623-4644 or charlie@autoshows. cc or visit f100supernationals.com.

890-0355 or shodges@murfreesborotn. gov. Admission is free.

MAY 19

MAY 19

3RD FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT

DINING IN THE DARK

Come to Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) for food trucks and live music on Friday, May 19, from 6–9 p.m. Bring your lawn chair or a blanket. Contact (615)

Eat as you wear three different types of glasses to get the feeling how a blind or sight-impaired person lives each day at Dining in the Dark on Friday, May 19, at 6:30

MAY 17 BEYOND THE BELL Join the annual Salvation Army luncheon “Beyond the Bell” at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center (1200 Conference Center Blvd.) Wednesday, May 17, from noon–1 p.m. for a celebration of the work done by the Salvation Army. WGNS’ Bryan Barrett serves as emcee of this event with a special thanks to the Event Chair Betsy Maples Taylor. The Honorary Chair is Bart Walker. For more information, call (615) 895-7071 or visit salvationarmytennessee.org/murfreesboro.

MAY 19 AND 20 FORD F-100 SUPERNATIONALS Come see some hot cars at James E. Ward Agriculture Center (948 E. Baddour Pkwy.) May 19 and 20 from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. for the Ford F-100 Supernationals and show. For more information, contact BOROPULSE.COM

* MAY 2017 * 5

MAY 27–29

p.m. at the Lions Clubhouse in Cannonsburgh (407 Hickerson Dr.). The glasses were designed by ophthalmologist Dr. Frank Drowota, a Lions member. Sponsorships and tickets are available by calling (615) 893-2582. Proceeds assist towards paying for glasses, eye surgeries, rehabilitate blind adults, provide leader dogs for the blind, and research to find a cure for diabetes, the leading cause of blindness.

THE HEALING FIELD FLAGS Continue a nine-year tradition with the Noon Exchange Club of Murfreesboro with an inspiring formation of U.S. flags in tribute to veterans, the military and personal heroes Saturday through Monday, May 27–29, beginning with a 8 a.m. opening ceremony and closing with Keynote Speaker retired General Keith Huber. The Healing Field Flags of Remembrance will fly over The Grove at Williamson Place (3250 Wilkinson Pk.) this year. Expect a grassy field posted with hundreds of U.S. flags presenting an unforgettable panorama of red, white and blue as you walk amid the ordered rows of Old Glory, where each full-sized flag waves atop an eight-foot white staff in a stirring formation. Admission is free. For more information, visit noonexchange.org.

MAY 20 WORLD TURTLE DAY Join in a day dedicated to our shelled friends in celebrating and discovering ways to increase turtle conservation around the world. Take the World’s Slowest Hike and stop at each turtle station to learn about the different species. Find out ways to help out all the critters on this planet. Enjoy music by Michael Jacobs, local vendors, activities, crafts, live animals and puppet shows at the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (301 Volunteer Rd.) from 3–5 p.m. For more information, contact (615) 217-3017 or outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 20 USA TRACK AND FIELD If you like to run, jump and throw, meet at Riverdale High School Track (802 Warrior Dr.) at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 20, with a meet starting at 10 a.m. for youth ages

7–16 competing in a variety of track and field events from sprints, distance runs, long jump and shot put. Winners have the opportunity to advanceto the state level.

For more information, contact (615) 9072251 or athletics@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 20 RED, WHITE AND BAYOU Be a part of United Way’s 8th Annual Red, White and Bayou at the home of Ted and Gloria LaRoche (2103 Shannon Dr.) from 7–10 p.m. on Saturday, May 20. Enjoy

ENTERTAINMENT

DJ, BINGO, TRIVIA & KARAOKE NIGHTS  MONDAYS AHART’S PIZZA GARDEN Trivia, 6:30 p.m.

LEVEL III Trivia, 7 p.m.

THE BORO Vinyl Spin with KM 9 p.m.

 TUESDAYS COCONUT BAY Live Trivia, 7:30 p.m.

HANDLEBARS Karaoke, 7 p.m.

NACHO’S Trivia, 7 p.m.

NOBODY'S Bingo, 7 p.m.

OLD CHICAGO Trivia, 9 p.m.

TGI FRIDAY’S Trivia, 9 p.m.

6 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

HANDLEBARS Karaoke, 7 p.m.

LA SIESTA (GREENLAND) Trivia, 7 p.m.

LEVEL III Trivia, 7 p.m.

MELLOW MUSHROOM Trivia, 8 p.m.

NOBODY’S Trivia, 7 and 9:30 p.m.

SAM’S SPORTS GRILL Trivia, 8 p.m.

STATION GRILL Trivia, 7 p.m.

THE BORO Game Night, 8 p.m.

 THURSDAYS BOB’S BBQ Trivia, 7 p.m.

 WEDNESDAYS

CAMPUS PUB Trivia, 6:15 and 8:15 p.m.

CAMPUS PUB Karaoke, 10 p.m.–2:30 a.m.

COCONUT BAY Karaoke, 8:00 p.m.

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR Karaoke, 9 p.m.

HANDLEBARS Karaoke, 7 p.m.

NOBODY’S Karaoke, 9:15 p.m.–12:30 a.m.

WHISKEY DIX DJ Cliffy D, 8 p.m.

 FRIDAYS GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR Karaoke, 9 p.m.

LIQUID SMOKE DJ Night, 10 p.m.

MT BOTTLE Karaoke, 9 p.m.–3 a.m.

WHISKEY DIX DJ Cliffy D, 8 p.m.

 SATURDAYS CAMPUS PUB Karaoke, 10 p.m.–2:30 a.m.

NACHOS Trivia, 7 p.m.

NOBODY’S Karaoke, 9:15 p.m.–12:30 a.m.

WHISKEY DIX DJ Cliffy D, 8 p.m.

 SUNDAYS SAM’S SPORTS GRILL Trivia, 8 p.m.

an outdoors, casual dinner reflective of the Southern coastal culture. The Alley on Main caters this year’s event with a Cajun and bayou inspired menu. Tickets are $75.

Visit yourlocaluw.org/redwhitebayou or text ‘BAYOU’ to 41444. For more information, contact (615) 893-7303 ext. 105. or amy. painter@yourlocaluw.org.

MAY 20 A STONES THROW AWAY Help clean up the Greenway at Old Fort Park Trailhead (916 Golf Ln., Pavilion 3) Saturday, May 20, from 9 a.m.–noon.

Volunteers pick up trash beside the trail along the banks of the Stones River and Lytle Creek or in the water. Trash bags, gloves, water and snacks are available.

Wear sturdy shoes and clothes that can get wet and dirty. For more information, contact (615) 893-2141 or mtate@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 20 MARCH FOR BABIES Join March for Babies, supporting premature babies or children born with a birth defect, on Saturday, May 20, with registration beginning at 8 a.m., the Superhero Sprint at 8:45 a.m. and the walk at 9 a.m. at Murfreesboro Medical Clinic (1272 Garrison Dr.). Sign-up at marchforbabies.org/ event/murfreesboro.

MAY 20 RIDE FOR KIDS Ride for a charity event to raise money for Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation Saturday, May 20, with registration from noon–1:45 p.m. at Barfield Crescent Park and the ride leaving at 2 p.m. for a loop ride; celebration is at approximately 3 p.m. All motorcycles are invited as well as non-riders. The registration fee is a donation. Enjoy a free snack and hot lunch. Ride for Kids is the longestrunning, most successful motorcycle charity event in the nation. Since 1984, motorcyclists have raised funds to help children with brain tumors, the top cause of cancer death in children. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation was created in 1991 by the founders of Ride for Kids, and is now the leading nonprofit funding research into childhood brain tumors. For more information, call (615) 260-5966.

MAY 20 WOMEN VETERANS WELLNESS FAIR The Tennessee Valley Healthcare System presents its 1st Annual Women Veterans Wellness Fair at the National Guard Armory (2350 Armory Dr.) Saturday, May 20, at 9 a.m. Participate with vendors representing

a host of VA and community resources with food, fun and prizes. For more information, contact (615) 225-5585.

MAY 20 CRUSIN’ FOR A CAUSE Smyrna Lions Club presents the second annual Cruisin’ for a Cause Car Show on Saturday, May 20, at 10 a.m. at Smyrna High School (100 Bulldog Dr., Smyrna).

Entry fee is $20 per car; spectators get in free. All proceeds benefit the Fisher House, Murfreesboro, Veterans Administrations.

For more information, visit the 2nd Annual Crusin’ for a Cause Facebook page.

achievements of real life science heroes like Albert Einstein, Rachel Carson, Marie Curie and Thomas Edison. Rising kindergarten through fifth-grade children are welcome. For more information, call (615) 890-2300 or visit explorethedc.org.

MAY 30–JULY 28 MTCS SUMMER CAMP Take part in daily Bible activities, handson learning, arts and crafts, community

service, weekly field trips and special visitors Tuesday, May 30–Friday, July 28, from 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m at Middle Tennessee Christian School (100 E. MTCS Rd.). Camp is open to all children ages 3 to 6th grade. Admission is $40 for a full day and includes lunch and two snacks.

Admission is $180 a week and $120 a week for a half day (until 11:30 a.m.). For more information, contact monicahelton@ mtcscougars.org or visit mtcscougars.org.

MAY 22 SPRING FLING Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association’s (TSSAA) Spring Fling, with high school championships for warm weather sporting activities (tennis, baseball, softball, soccer, and track & field), kicks off May 22 and will be held at various locations throughout Murfreesboro through May 26. General admission tickets are $10 per day. For a complete schedule, results and scores contact (615) 278-2327 or visit tssaa.org.

MAY 22 MEMORY CAFE Memory Cafe helps people with memory loss and their caregivers in providing a relaxed, friendly occasion for persons with memory loss issues to talk, laugh and experience friendship the third Monday of every month from 2–3 p.m. For more information, call (615) 848-2550 or (615) 542-4371.

MAY 27 OPENING DAY OF BORO BEACH Celebrate the beginning of summer in the sun at Boro Beach Sports*Com Outdoor Pool (2310 Memorial Blvd.) Saturday, May 27, from 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Relax by the pool, swim, dive, play games and listen to music. This is the first day of the outdoor pool opening for the year. For more information, contact (615) 895-5040 or kgoss@murfreesborotn.gov.

MAY 30–JUNE 2 SUPERHERO SCIENCE Become a superhero with hands-on experiments in discovering the science behind the powers of heroes and heroines like SpiderMan, Storm, Iron Man and Wonder Woman.

Create your superhero persona throughout the week and design a hero costume at Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St.) Tuesday, May 30–Friday, June 2, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The camp features the BOROPULSE.COM

* MAY 2017 * 7

IF YOU GO

CONCERTS THURS, 5/4 JAZZMATAZZ

Ivan Fleming

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Autograph Rehearsal Studio 1400 W. College St. 615-686-6121

FRI, 5/12 One Love

Clayton Colvin

NOBODY’S

All-Star Jam Hosted

by Justin Johnson

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

FRI, 5/5

JAZZMATAZZ

Zone Status

Main Street Jazzfest

NOBODY’S

Apathy Wizards, Ex-Bombers, Insomniac Folklore

Process of Suffocation, Vile Desecration, Fornicus, Mangled Atrocity, Armament, Kamikaze Zombie, Bled to Submission, Of Serpents, Gorgy, Obsidian Shrine

Hits and Grins

THE BORO

Adhere, Acidic Goose, P. Quinn

THE GREEN DRAGON

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR

Twisted Lines

LEVEL 3

The Cosmic Collective

JAZZMATAZZ

SAT., 5/20 @ TEMPT

AUTOGRAPH REHEARSAL STUDIO

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

SAT, 5/6

BUBBA SPARXXX AND STRUGGLE JENNINGS

SAT, 5/13

Mixtape 80s Band

Uncle Don Clark

CJ’S

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR

Level 77

Scott Steele

JAZZMATAZZ

JAZZMATAZZ

DJ Mojo

MAYDAY BREWERY

MAYDAY BREWERY

Jon Scott

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

Red Wine Hangover

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

The One Hitter

THE BORO

Braden Baugh

SUN, 5/7

JAZZMATAZZ

Tony Hartman

OLD FORT PARK

Tennessee Valley Winds

MON, 5/8

JAZZMATAZZ

Main Street Comotion

WED, 5/10

JAZZMATAZZ

Wes Loper

THURS, 5/11

TEMPT

Narwhal Empire

Bubba Sparxx, Struggle Jennings

SUN, 5/14

SHORT MOUNTAIN DISTILLERY

Robyn Taylor + Friends

JAZZMATAZZ

THURS, 5/18

THE BORO

Songwriter Night Hosted by Glenn Brown

SUN, 5/21

JAZZMATAZZ

Matt and Shauna Lund, Tony Hartman

SHORT MOUNTAIN DISTILLERY

Robyn Taylor + Friends

TEMPT

Zebbler Encanti Experience, Sixis, Moniker

WED, 5/24

JAZZMATAZZ

Ivan Fleming

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Ivan LaFever

THE BORO

Radical Arts presents Comedy Night

All-Star Jam

PULSE

FRI, 5/19

JAZZMATAZZ

THE BORO

8 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

MurderSuicide, Nemesis Devine

HOODOO MEN

PICK

FRI., 5/19 @ MAYDAY BREWERY Murfreesboro’s top hollerin’, greasy, ’lectrified, spooky, fuzzy, corn liquor and pork chop-fueled, juke joint blues duo, the Hoodoo Men, are back on Friday, May 19.

Catch the duo, Bill Steber and Sammy Baker, in the tasting room at Murfreesboro’s top brewery, Mayday.

Coconut Bay Café 210 Stones River Mall Blvd.

615-494-0504 Garage Bar 405 N. Front St. 615-934-7464 Green Dragon 714 W. Main St. 615-801-7171 Jazzmatazz 1824 Old Fort Pkwy.

615-624-6944 Level 3 114 S. Maple St. 615-900-3754 Liquid Smoke #2 Public Square 615-217-7822

SAT, 5/27

Mayday Brewery 521 Old Salem Hwy. 615-479-9722

BIRD SONG STUDIO

The Honey Dewdrops Exit South

Junk Alley Band

MAPLEWOOD STABLES

Music City Dixieland Band, Snakehips, Power Play, Doc-In-ABox, Salty Dawgs, Walter Egan, Smoke Screen, Deplorables, Calico Coast

THE BORO

THE BORO

CJ’s 352 W. Northfield Blvd.

615-546-4164

Main Street Music 527 W. Main St. 615-440-2425

Junkbox

Montez & the ’80s Groove

The Young Fables

Doc Holladay and Friends

Roland Justice

Carpe Artista 101 Front St., Smyrna 615-984-4038

NOBODY’S

MAYDAY BREWERY

Ivan LaFever

Minus One

MAYDAY BREWERY

JAZZMATAZZ

Drew Sims

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

DJ Kidd Green

THURS, 5/25

Ivan Fleming

Hoodoo Men

JAZZMATAZZ

GEORGIA’S

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Crusty Veterans

FRI, 5/26

JAZZMATAZZ

JAZZMATAZZ

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

The Ham Family

Dirty Fuss, Giants at the Door

Joey Fletcher album release

NOBODY’S

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

THE BORO

GARAGE BAR

Drew Sims

MAYDAY BREWERY

Ivan LaFever

Greg Pope

Raven Cliff

JAZZMATAZZ

Ivan Fleming

Chris Jordan and the Heat

Rye Baby

THE BORO

Main Street Jazzfest

SAT, 5/20 Robyn Taylor

PUCKETT’S GROCERY

MURFREESBORO PUBLIC SQUARE

“I didn't choose to rhyme, rhymin’ chose me,” raps Southern rap pioneer Bubba Sparxxx, who’s been doing his thing for 20 years now. The Georgia product scored a gold record with 2001’s Dark Days, Bright Nights, and created the top-selling Ms. New Booty product. After some time out of the spotlight, Sparxxx is back, and will appear at Tempt with Struggle Jennings—an rising Southern rap artist in his own right, and a grandson of Waylon—on Saturday, May 20. Find tickets on eventbrite.com.

CJ’S

Robyn Taylor

Sam McCrary and the Mix

MAYDAY BREWERY

PICK

Rob Harris and Friends

MAYDAY BREWERY

Ryan Coleman

PULSE

THE BORO

One Love

MURFREESBORO PUBLIC SQUARE

Carmen’s Taqueria 206 W. Northfield Blvd.

615-848-9003

MAYDAY BREWERY

Ivan LaFever

THE BORO

Bonhoeffer’s 2022 E. Main St. 615-440-3794

JAZZMATAZZ

The Darkest Hearts, Divided We Stand, Eye on the Sky

SUN, 5/28

AUTOGRAPH REHEARSAL STUDIO

Crud, Holly Hunt, Battle Path, Bled to Submission, Knuckle Dragger

MT Bottle 3940 Shelbyville Hwy. 615-962-9872 MTSU Wright Music Building 1439 Faulkinberry Dr. 615-898-2469 Nacho’s 2962 S. Rutherford Blvd.

615-907-2700 Nobody’s Grille & BBQ 2227 Old Fort Pkwy.

615-962-8019 Patterson Park Community Center 521 Mercury Blvd.

(615) 893-7439 Phat Boyz Bar & Grill 4425 Woodbury Pk. 615-546-4526 Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant 114 N. Church St. 629-201-6916 Shangri-La 1208 S. Lowry St., Smyrna (629) 255-8296 Tempt 211 W. Main St. 615-225-7757

Drew Sims

The Boro Bar & Grill 1211 Greenland Dr. 615-895-4800

Robyn Taylor + Friends

Wall Street 121 N. Maple St. 615-867-9090

JAZZMATAZZ

SHORT MOUNTAIN DISTILLERY

 View the monthly concert schedule at BoroPulse.com/Concerts  Send show listings to Listings@BoroPulse.com

Sounds

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BoroPulse.com/Category/Music

2017 MAIN STREET JAZZFEST SCHEDULE FRIDAY, MAY 5 Siegel High School Jazz Band Riverdale High School Jazz Band Oakland High School Jazz Band Blackman High School Jazz Band Smyrna High School Jazz Band La Vergne High School Jazz Band Central Jazz Band Siegel High School Jazz Band

6 p.m.

6:40 p.m.

7:20 p.m.

8 p.m.

8:40 p.m.

9:20 p.m.

10 p.m.

10:40 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAY 6  Bob Scales Stage

VALERIE GILLESPIE

T

he 2017 Main Street JazzFest presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union features Valerie Gillespie, The Lao Tizer Band, First Fruit Jazz Project, 129th Army Band and local talent including MTSU Jazz Faculty, MTSU Jazz Ensemble I and Ethos Jazz Band.

“Main Street JazzFest is 21 years in the making, and the 2017 event will feature high-energy artists from both coasts, all in the beautiful, historic setting of downtown Murfreesboro,” Main Street Murfreesboro Executive Director Kathleen Herzog said.

Valerie Gillespie is a saxophonist who shares a dedication to preserving live jazz music and performs several styles that range from instrumental to vocal jazz.

Seymour High School Jazz Band Ethos Jazz Band MTSU Jazz Ensemble #1 129th Army Band MTSU Jazz Faculty First Fruit Jazz Project The Lao Tizer Band Valerie Gillespie

LAO TIZER BAND

JazzFest is back for another May featuring Valerie Gillespie, Lao Tizer and lots of local music students.

Gillespie is an adjunct faculty member at the University of South Florida in Tampa and performs frequently in the Tampa Bay area and at many jazz festivals as well.

Gillespie recently had the honor of being the featured artist in Saxophone Today magazine. She has performed on numerous albums, playing flutes and clarinet, and providing vocals, in addition to saxophone.

Her most recent CD is entitled Lush Life and includes music by Chick Corea and Billy Strayhorn.

Keyboardist Lao Tizer is a Boulder, Colo., native, and his style is influenced by a mix of jazz, rock and classical musics along with Afro-Cuban and world rhythm.

This year’s JazzFest again welcomes the

12 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

2 p.m.

3:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:45 p.m.

7 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

 Kroger (West) Stage Rockvale Middle School Stewart’s Creek Middle School Stewart’s Creek 1st Period Jazz Band La Vergne Middle Jazz Band Scales Elementary Jazz Band St. Rose Middle School Siegel Middle School Stewart’s Creek 7th Period Jazz Band Oakland Middle School Blackman Middle School All Rutherford County Jazz Band Steel De Boro Moore County High School Jazz Band The Cosmic Collective

129th Army Band, and will feature Rutherford County-based First Fruit Jazz Project on the main stage.

First Fruit Jazz Project is a unique blend of jazz, funk and improvisational rock.

Keyboardist Mark Cherry felt that, while traditional gospel hymns were rich in their lyrical content, the melodies and chords accompanying them were sometimes unable to match the emotion the lyrics evoked.

Jazz-based arrangements were needed! Over time, Cherry re-arranged many traditional hymns into compositions he felt would emphasize the true passion of their lyrics and bring a fresh energy. Bassist David Cox, drummer Mike Hunter and saxophonist Alan Cannady join him in the First Fruit

11 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

12 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1:30 p.m 2 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3:10 p.m.

3:50 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:10 p.m.

5:40 p.m.

6:15 p.m.

Jazz Project as the group continues to evolve and take new paths, creating a fresh listening experience with each performance.

The weekend will include performances from area high school and middle school bands. And in addition to lots of live jazz, other features include the Kids Alley, which will feature inflatables and other children’s activities, along with numerous food vendors.

“JazzFest is great fun for the entire family,” Herzog added.

JazzFest is free and open to the public.

For more information on the 2017 Main Street JazzFest presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union, held May 5 and 6, visit mainstreetjazzfest.net.

BOROPULSE.COM

* MAY 2017 * 9

Sounds

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JAZZ AFTER DARK

JazzFest weekend concludes with Cosmic Collective performance at Level 3 on May 6. BY DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

O

n any given weekend, Murfreesboro jazz group the Cosmic Collective takes the stage at local venues like Level 3, The Alley on Main and Blue Note Whiskey Bar, or down the road in Franklin or Nashville. The band’s versatile set also lends itself to various festivals, weddings and private events throughout the year.

As a collective, the group is ever-evolving.

Since forming in 2014, members come and go freely for live performances depending on availability.

The band released its debut full-length, Abstract Notions, produced by up-and-coming jazz producer Jon Estes, in April 2017 with a release party at The Night Owl in Nashville.

This year the Cosmic Collective—vocalist Nikki Elias, bassist Tyler Enslow, drummer Jed Smith, saxophonist DeVante’ Buford, keyboardist Ashton Kimbrough and guitarist Jonathan Rogerson—will return to the Murfreesboro Public Square’s Level 3 on Saturday, May 6, for Jazz After Dark, a late-night set the same day of the Main Street JazzFest.

This year, JazzFest, a two-day event that brings together national and local jazz performers, features Valerie Gillespie, Los Angeles-based Lao Tizer Band, First Fruit Jazz Project and many more The Pulse spoke with Cosmic Collective

10 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

singer Nikki Michelle ahead of the band’s Jazz after Dark performance.

To start off, can you tell me the story about how the Cosmic Collective came to be?

The reason we call it the Cosmic Collective is because I knew it would evolve over time.

From the beginning, we’ve had different people who would play with the band. One of the best parts of Cosmic Collective is that we play gigs with different people depending on who is available on a certain day.

The Cosmic Collective members met at MTSU in two or three different jazz combos in the music department. We would jam all the time and realized we had to do something bigger with our music. We realized we needed to be out performing and sharing this special sound with people all around. As of now, the Cosmic Collective is comprised of many members, hence the name Collective.

You guys play everything from original music to covers spanning many genres, both old and new. How would you describe the band’s style?

Our style is like water, as it flows and adapts to whatever the shape of the cup it is in. We pay attention to our listeners wherever we perform and adapt our style to what they might enjoy.

Sometimes we are playing loud, dance-

oriented music. Sometimes we may be playing soft, background jazz music. It all depends on the room and the crowd.

We could start off by doing something by Frank Sinatra from the 1940s, but, depending on the crowd and how rowdy or calm they are, we could break into something like Beyoncé. It’s fun for us and them.

What’s the past year been like for the band, with your debut album out?

With debuting our album, it’s given us the opportunity to play the original music at our gigs, while continuously developing Abstract Notions on different playing levels. Our goal is to not sound like the album live, but to take the music somewhere else each performance.

How was your last JazzFest weekend experience?

It was awesome. After the last JazzFest headliner finished [in 2016], a lot of people came over to Level 3 to see us play. It was great that we could help keep that music going so late into the night.

What was the recording process like for Abstract Notions?

We began recording the album back in 2015, which feels like a long time ago. We were

initially going to record and release a single or an EP, but our producer suggested that we go all in for an album. We were excited to do it, but with so many people, it was hard to get everyone together over and over to record.

The whole process was a learning experience. We finished writing some compositions the night before we were going to record them. In the studio, the group learned the music that day, and every member gave their creative input as we built the tune. The recording was truly a “collective” effort.

I also saw where Cosmic Collective collaborated with Jeff Coffin of the Dave Matthews Band on the record. How was that experience?

The experience was good. We were never actually in the same room, but we had recorded a few tunes and the genius engineer Jon Estes said he could get Jeff on the record. So, naturally, we said yes. It is really cool to hear what such a masterful musician played over the music.

You all also travel for shows from time to time, like your upcoming headlining performance at the Mudbug Madness festival (held in Shreveport, La., on Memorial Day weekend). What’s in store for the future?

The Cosmic Collective will be doing several tours this summer— New York in August, North Carolina in September and Chicago in July. When we are home, we will continue playing in and around Nashville. The goal is to play as much as we can. We’ll be back in the studio in September getting ready to record a whole new album. This next one will be even more cosmic.

What can JazzFest attendees expect at this year’s performance?

The attendees can expect some jazz from the 1940s alongside some electric jazz from our new album. It’ll be a very diverse performance.

Abstract Notions is available on iTunes.

For more on the Cosmic Collective, visit facebook.com/nikkieliassings.

ALBUMS

BLUE MATCHES

Center of the Universe

Blue Matches is a four-piece rock band that takes a lot of inspiration from modern rock bands popular around the turn of the century. The band features vocalist Michelle Marston, guitarist Steven Edwards, drummer Phillip Brown and bassist Stephen Smith.

Edwards, who formed the band while attending MTSU, seems to be the mastermind behind the project, as he wrote all the lyrics and music for Center of the Universe, as well as co-produced (with Smith) and co-recorded (with Jordan Logue) the 13-song project.

Blue Matches’ radio-ready alternative rock sound with elements of modern punk will appeal to fans of the genre, but the lyrics may leave a little to be desired. One example of this is “Prophets and Paramilitaries,” which combines themes of police brutality and rioting. However, the verses don’t uniformly connect, the perspectives seem to abruptly change and the vocal mix makes it impossible to understand the meaning without over-analyzing the lyrics.

“Vanity” is written as an “introspective reflection on the fashion and beauty industry,” but it comes off as a vague lambast of capitalism and pride mixed with seemingly random verses. The ska-influenced “Fatty Gets Off ” is a fun listen, but the character’s story just isn’t unpacked clearly. Also, the meaning of a song named after a medieval torture device (“Pear of Anguish”) is virtually undecipherable.

It’s clear that a lot of time and thought went into the album’s lyrics, and they’re poetic on paper, but they could alienate or confuse some listeners.

The album fares much, much better when the lyrics aren’t so loaded. “Watch the Sun Explode” is a beautifully apocalyptic love tale with a riff akin to Foo Fighters’ “Monkey Wrench.”

“White Mouse” is a straightforward cut that hits a lyrical sweet spot for the band.

Blue Matches’ Center of the Universe is available on Spotify, Soundcloud, iTunes and Amazon.

— JOHN CONNOR COULSTON

A CLASSIC OUTSTANDING

MAYBE APRIL Maybe April

Within the past couple years, Nashville-based trio Maybe April has opened for artists such as Brandy Clark and Sarah Jarosz, as well as performed at Franklin’s Pilgrimage Music Festival. Now, after five years of creating music together, the group is celebrating the release of its self-titled debut EP. Maybe April consists of Katy Bishop, Kristen Castro and Alaina Stacey—all transplants from other states—who formed in 2012 while attending GRAMMY Camp. Bishop and Castro, both former MTSU students, hail from Jonesboro, Ark., and Simi Valley, Calif., respectively, while Stacey calls Chicago home. The members eventually found their way to Middle Tennessee and found a musical chemistry.

The group’s self-titled EP features seven tracks that could be described as Americana with a hint of charming 2000s country. The release begins with “Last Time,” a musically brooding and radio-ready track that tackles the gritty honesty of finally giving up with the warning: I’m not waiting around for you to grow up / For you to show up and fight for me / I’m not sitting at home waiting on you for you to wise up / For you to give it up “Breaking Point” and “Crazy” are pure country ballads that tackle love and heartbreak, while “Blush” kindles the carefree feeling of riding top-down in a convertible. The catchy, upbeat track is rhythmically reminiscent of Keith Urban’s 2002 hit “Somebody Like You” yet performed in the rootsy style of Americana trio Nickel Creek. “Tennessee,” is an ode to the trio’s new home, while “Loving You Still” brings the album’s theme of falling in and back out of love full circle.

While Maybe April’s seamless, three-part harmonies are captivating, each member’s instrumental and songwriting contributions complete the musical trifecta.

If you like what you hear, the trio performs at the free Musician’s Corner series at Nashville’s Centennial Park on May 19 and an upcoming fall gig at Bird Song Studio on Oct. 21. Visit maybeapril.com for music and other tour dates. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

AVERAGE BELOW AVERAGE

AVOID AT ALL COSTS DEAD

Sounds

HONEY DEWDROPS

Read more about local music at

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MUSIC NOTES

THE GRASCALS, RUSSELL MOORE AND IIIRD TYME OUT RECEIVE 2017 UNCLE DAVE MACON DAY HONORS

ROOTS MUSIC SERIES RETURNS TO BIRD SONG STUDIO MAY 27 Bird Song Studio’s annual Roots Music Series kicks off Saturday, May 27, with the Honey Dewdrops, a Virginia-born, Baltimore-based country duo. In addition to the Dewdrops, this year’s series boasts an impressive lineup featuring local acts Sarah Potenza, Rhythm Kitchen, the Jake Leg Stompers, Mary Gauthier and Maybe April. Since 2014, Bird Song Studio owner Robyn Taylor has brought national and Grammy-award winning artists to the intimate 75-seat Woodbury venue. For a full list of dates and times, find Bird Song Studio on Facebook or visit rtbirdsongstudio.com.

THE GRASCALS

U

ncle Dave Macon Days organizers have recently announced its Heritage and Trailblazer Award winners for 2017.

On Friday, July 7, The Grascals will receive this year’s Trailblazer Award, and will perform, along with the Hog Slop String Band and the 2006 Heritage Award winner Rhonda Vincent.

The following evening, Saturday,

RUSSELL MOORE AND IIIRD TYME OUT

12 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

July 8, will feature the presentation and performance of the 2017 Heritage Award winner, Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out. July 8 will also feature a performance by the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band and the 40th Anniversary Macon Days Jam. Each July in Murfreesboro, Uncle Dave Macon Days celebrates old-time music, dance and culture with instrument competitions,

performances both onstage and under shade trees, a motorless parade, blacksmithing and other demonstrations, an arts and crafts show, a historic photo exhibit and more. The celebration takes place in Cannonsburgh, a genuine pioneer village, located at 312 S. Front St. in Murfreesboro.

For more information, visit uncledavemacondays.com.

RHONDA VINCENT

PATTYPALOOZA BRINGS MUSIC AND BBQ TO LASCASSAS MAY 27 Plan a short drive to Lascassas for this year’s Pattypalooza, a full day of music and barbecue, on Saturday, May 27. The rain-or-shine event features festival favorites, including Music City Dixieland Band, Snakehips, Power Play, Doc-In-A-Box, Salty Dawgs and hit songwriter Walter Egan (“Magnet and Steel”), as well as newcomers Smoke Screen, the Deplorables and Calico Coast.

Pattypalooza kicks off at 11 WALTER EGAN a.m. and will conclude with a headlining set by Nashville-based duo Marvin and Gentry at 7 p.m.

Although the festival remains a free event, this year’s featured charity is the Alzheimer’s Association, and donations are encouraged.

According to organizers, personal instruments, lawn chairs, coolers and canopies are all welcome at the event, which will be held at Maplewood Stables, 9499 Cainsville Pike, Lascassas.

For more information, visit pattypalooza.com.

Food

Read more about local restaurants at

BoroPulse.com/Category/Food

THE DISH NAME: The Hoof BBQ LOCATION: 352 W. Northfield

chow for the collard greens. But in true Texas fashion, the pickles and onions are always free.

HOURS: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Tuesday–Sunday What makes The Hoof stand out is the wide variety of sauce PHONE: (615) 869-7447 options, the restaurant offers PRICES: Sandwich (Pulled more than 10 scratch-made dips.

Smoked Pork, Chicken, Sausage or Brisket) with Chips—$5.50; From Tangy Texas and Alabama Brisket Platter—$10; Veggie White to Touch O’ Heat and Platter—$8, Whole Smoked Sweet Mild, there’s a sauce to suit Sausage Platter—$12; every spice and regional preferBrunswick Stew and Chili— ence. The platters come with a Cup/$3.25 Bowl/$5; Banana Pudding—$4 generous serving for dipping.

“Best brisket in Murfreesboro with a friendly staff to boot,” says Google reviewer Steven Shreve. “Their house-made jerk sauce would be pretty epic on some chicken or pork. The greens are Southernstyle and delicious.”

The sides tread into delicious territory, with hot options like baked and white beans, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, cornbread dressing and collard greens seasoned with bacon. And what’s barbecue without a cold sides like coleslaw or potato salad? The Hoof delivers in this department, as well.

“The potato salad is a must-try,” says another online reviewer Chance Torrez. “Definitely recommended in a highly competitive BBQ market.”

Despite the competitive market, The Hoof is holding its own, having just presented the 3rd Annual Backyard BBQ Festival at Cannonsburgh Village last month. The allday fest featured a rib eating contest among other activities.

For those with a sweet tooth, I hope you fancy banana pudding, as it’s the only regularly served dessert on the menu.

If you’re looking for even larger portions to take home, The Hoof offers meat by the pound and family packs (feeds four with two sides), as well as catering options for more than 25 people.

When it comes down to taste, a restaurant’s atmosphere is usually the least of my worries (I love stumbling into a great hole-in-the-wall), but the McGuire family operates their business in noticeably clean In addition to standards like brisket and space with ample booth and table seating. pulled smoked pork or chicken (similar To complete a pleasurable dining experipulled pork and chicken to what was served ence, there’s usually a steady stream of clasat O’Possum’s), the menu features spare ribs, sic rock hits from the likes of Led Zeppelin wings and smoked sausage. If a meat-andand The Doors. sauce sandwich just won’t cut it, top off your I suggest arriving to The Hoof with an order with items like jalapeños, sour cream, appetite; with all this meat-and-two has to bacon bits or slaw and reserve some chowoffer, it’s worth checking out.

Blvd. (Heritage Square Shopping Center)

Secret’s in the Sauce The Hoof BBQ serves up a slice of Texas.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

W

hen the craving for brisket, smoked sausage or a pulled pork sandwich strikes, pile up a plate at The Hoof BBQ, a cafeteria-style establishment specializing in Texas ’cue.

Operated since last summer by the McGuire family—father Gary and son Nick (formerly of the beloved O’Possum’s Pub)—The Hoof claims a cozy corner spot in the Heritage Square Shopping Center off Northfield Boulevard.

Upon entering the locale, grab a tray and silverware off to the right, skim the giant, artsy chalkboard menu and move on down the line. There’s usually a two-person serving team waiting to prepare orders, with one server prepping meat on a cutting board, while the other server loads up bowls of various made-from-scratch vegetables.

The main courses vary between platters and sandwiches, with just a couple dollars 14 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

difference between the two. For a lighter meal option, plan for the vegetable plate (three hot or cold sides) or one of the sandwiches on wheat; the latter comes with a side of chips or the option to substitute a hot or cold side for a $1.50 extra. Most orders are topped off with one or two piping-hot silver dollar cornbread muffins.

SIMPLE STRAWBERRY BRUSCHETTA

 RECIPE

Try Some Fresh Strawberries on Toasted Baguette with Goat Cheese and Balsamic

INGREDIENTS French baguette, cut into thin slices Plain or honeyed goat cheese Strawberries Balsamic glaze

METHOD Lightly grill or toast baguette slices. Spread cooled crostini with softened goat cheese. Top goat cheese with sliced strawberries and drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze.

BY CHANTELL KENNEDY-SHEHAN STRAWBERRIES . . . THE SWEET LITTLE RED FRUIT we all know and love. Here in the South, strawberries indicate the start of a wonderful spring season. Locally there are numerous berry patches where you can pick the freshest strawberries money can buy. Rutherford County boasts at least three, with many more in surrounding counties.

Many expect to see numerous strawberries at area farmers markets soon as well, as they are the first fruit to ripen in the Tennessee area. I can see it now, just as I witnessed last year at the Main Street Saturday Market on the Square: children walking around or riding in their strollers with tiny little hands full of berries, stuffing their cheeks full.

As the season is already here, I know I cannot wait to get my hands on some for a fresh local treat!

JUNE 3 ’BORO BITES AND BREWS CRAFT BEER AND FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL The Business Education Partnership Foundation (BEP) will hold ’Boro Bites and Brews craft beer and food truck festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 3, from 5–9 p.m. at Murfreesboro Medical Clinic.

Sponsored by Stones River Total Beverages and Murfreesboro Medical Clinic, ’Boro Bites and Brews will feature the perfect mix of batches from local home brewers, larger-scale craft breweries and microbrewery startups. Brewers and distillers represented will include Fat Bottom, Panther Creek, Turtle Anarchy, Ole Shed, Smackdab, Samuel Adams, Mantra Artisan Ales, Steel Barrel Brewing Company, Yellowhammer, Speakeasy, Mighty Swell, Bold Rock, Overall Brewing and Blending, Mos Alesley, Vitruvian Artisan Ales, Mid-State Brewsters and the The Mid-State Brew Crew. Food trucks and vendors include Next Pig Thing, The Brothers Burger and Food Coma.

Proceeds will support BEP’s innovative

Where to Pick BATEY FARMS

3250 Wilkinson Pike (615) 995-4025

P & P STRAWBERRY FARM 2841 E. Jefferson Pike, Lascassas (615) 895-4708

VALLEY HOME FARM 310 Potts Rd, Wartrace (931) 389-6470

educational programs for students, teachers, school counselors and principals in the Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County School Systems.

“BEP’s mission to help connect the businesses in Rutherford County with the students is something that I believe in,” said Stones River Total Beverages owner Charlie Patel. “Their mission to help students to begin to explore the types of jobs that exist for them upon graduation and teaching the skills that are valuable in the business world are a great asset to both the students and the community.” ’Boro Bites and Brews will be held outdoors at Murfreesboro Medical Clinic.

To participate as a brewer, as a food truck operator or as a vendor, visit boro bitesandbrews.com/vendors. ’Boro Bites and Brews is a 21-and-up event. General admission tickets are $35 in advance, and $40 at the door. Designated driver tickets are $15 in advance as well as at the door. For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, visit borobite sandbrews.com, or call (615) 278-2012.

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO BITES AND BREWS FESTIVAL Visit BoroPulse.com/Bites to enter!

16 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

Fun Facts

Strawberries are the only fruit with seeds (that aren’t even technically seeds . . .) on the outside.

Additionally, strawberries are technically not even berries.

They are more closely linked to the rose family.

The U.S is by far the largest

producer of the fruit. Every state grows them, but as far as mass production, approximately 75 percent of them are grown in California.

Strawberries do not ripen after picking, so make sure to eat them quick!

The extras freeze well and can be made into nutritious smoothies.

Living

(At right, from left) A.J. Farley and Andrew Logan say they want to help make Murfreesboro more bike-friendly.

SHARE THE ROAD Bike Walk Murfreesboro advocates for improved biking, walking conditions.

BY TANNER DEDMON

A

dvocacy group Bike Walk Murfreesboro wants access to improved biking and walking facilities for the cyclists and pedestrians of Murfreesboro.

A branch of the state-level organization known as Bike Walk Tennessee, Murfreesboro’s BWT chapter is composed of roughly 100 members, still relatively new in comparison to other Bike Walk organizations such as those in Nashville, Knoxville and Memphis. Bike Walk Tennessee works with the Tennessee Department of Transportation to improve biking and walking conditions while the city chapters work more closely with their respective areas.

18 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

The Murfreesboro group holds monthly meetings to discuss how the city’s infrastructure can be improved to create a richer, safer experience for cyclists and pedestrians.

Murfreesboro resident AJ Farley acts as the chairman of Bike Walk Murfreesboro, and he says one of the group’s biggest goals right now is to get people out of their vehicles and onto their feet or bikes.

“Our most basic goal is to encourage the people of Murfreesboro and the people of Rutherford County to just ride their bikes more often,” said Farley.

“If they’re a bicyclist who’s already doing it, we want them to do it more. If they’re someone who hasn’t ridden their bike in years, we want to encourage them to dust it off, put some air in the tires and enjoy the sunshine.”

Farley became the head of Bike Walk Murfreesboro by being the person who was always talking about bike safety and how it could be improved. He attempted to ride his bike instead of driving whenever he got the chance, sometimes simply taking rides around the community.

And community involvement will play a major part in the progress of Bike Walk Murfreesboro, an involvement that Farley notes is strongly cultivated through citywide events. He referenced slow-roll events in Memphis and Knoxville that allow riders and walkers to enjoy communities as a slower, more observant pace than what’s typically involved in a hectic commute.

Seeking to imitate the progress of the larger Bike Walk cities, Farley says the Murfreesboro chapter is working towards

having its own community event in October, an open-street event that involves closing a selected Murfreesboro street to vehicular traffic in order to create a “linear park” that pedestrians can enjoy for an afternoon.

“You encourage folks to experience that street on foot, or on two wheels, and get a sense for what that street community actually feels like,” said Farley when asked what the main draw was to encourage community participation. Aside from just biking and walking, he said such an event would also be the perfect time for restaurants on the closed-down street to offer outdoor seating and for other groups to offer interactive demonstrations such as yoga classes or jump-roping sessions.

In terms of progress, Murfreesboro is already steps ahead of other cities in terms of leisurely biking and walking, according to Farley. He mentioned that the greenways found in Murfreesboro are the envy of many other cities, but that the group would still like to see added connectivity throughout Murfreesboro.

Those who are commuters and either need or want to ride their bikes to and from work, home and grocery trips don’t have as easy of a time. With Murfreesboro being a major college city, Farley said the population of students and faculty that commute to and from school as well as around the city only adds to the urgency of creating more accessible options for commuters. These

improvements would include more dedicated bicycle lanes and improved sidewalk conditions.

He pointed towards Nashville’s ongoing efforts to increase the safety of biking and walking.

“Nashville has made some amazing strides in terms of including protected bike lines and dedicated bike lanes,” he said. “Nashville City Council just passed a resolution requiring better sidewalk facilities to be included in new developments.

There’s a lot of forward progress here in the state, and we’re encouraged by what we’re seeing.”

Areas that Farley and Bike Walk Murfreesboro are excited to see improved include Jones Boulevard and the Lytle Street corridor. Farley said there’s been city-level talk of rebuilding Jones Boulevard and adding multi-use paths to the street to provide children a lane to bike to school. The group will continue to push for similar progress in other areas of Murfreesboro, but Farley adds that it may take some time to break ground on improvements.

“We’d like to see the city develop strategies to include bicycle-friendly facilities in more of the street designs,” he said.

“The city is doing the best they can there, but we’re just not there yet in terms of how the city understands what it means to be a bicycle-safe street.”

The next major event in line for Bike Walk Murfreesboro is the sixth annual Tennessee Bike Summit in Memphis on May 18–19. The meeting will host Bike Walk groups, advocates for safe cycling and transportation professionals.

For more information about Bike Walk Tennessee and its goals, visit bikewalktn.org.

Follow the Bike Walk Murfreesboro chapter on Facebook to learn more about their local efforts and meetings or contact AJ Farley at aj.farley@bikewalktn.org.

Living

Some companion planting ideas

Eggplant, Basil, Herbs

Farmers’ Market Education Series

Intercropping Techniques Make a happy, productive garden space using companion planting.

C

ompanion planting is a term that I first heard in high school, when friendships and companions were foremost in life. Needless to say, knowing that plants preferred companion plants was a concept that I adored. Companion plants share the traits of human companions; they support each other and deter problems. In the garden, compatible plants will support growth, encourage nutrient uptake and production while inhibiting pests.

Years later, I am still conscious of what plants are near each other. Companion planting puts two or more species of plants in close proximity to each other so a mutual benefit like the aforementioned pest control or increased production can be achieved.

There are many charts and publications on companion planting. Often, it is personal observations that are shared. My own personal solution is to add marigolds to any garden; they help everywhere! I would also recommend consulting more methodical and controlled publications and charts. UT Extension does have publication W235-F: Trap Crops, Intercropping and Companion Planting. Just Google the name and you should be able to download and read the file.

Intercropping is a similar concept. Both

20 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

have been in practice across generations and cultures. In North America, the most famous intercropping group is corn, squash and pole beans. The corn supports the beans and the squash does not allow for weeds to grow profusely. Their root systems do not interfere with each other and the growth patterns are a benefit for all three. Some will include sunflowers in the group as an addition or alternate to corn. The grouping is named the “Three Sisters” and does have many stories associated with it.

A third planting technique that I want to bring up is square-foot gardening. This is a great technique if you have a small space in which to garden. Simply, your garden space is divided into square-foot sections. Either a single large plant or several smaller sized Corn / Beans

COMPANION PLANTINGS COURTESY OF GREENINREALLIFE.BLOGSPOT.COM

BY EDWINA SHANNON

Upc�ing Farmers Market Classes 9 a.m., Community Center at the Lane Agri-Park 315 John R. Rice Blvd., Murfreesboro

MAY 12

Lettuce / Onions

plants are put in each square-foot area.

The concept is to grow, produce, replace.

Timing and days to harvest are important to this concept. There are two videos on the RC Farmers Market YouTube channel that are worth viewing for those interested in intensive gardening. Both classes were presented by gardening expert Richard Lee; Square-Foot Gardening and Intensive Gardening are the titles of the videos.

The bottom line: no matter how small an area, you can grow fresh vegetables.

Your space may not feed you for the whole season, but the excitement and curiosity of growing and producing is still there. Go for it! For those with windowsills or patios, do container gardening.

The RC Farmers Market Education series is the complete name of the YouTube channel. Videos from the classes offered during the Farmers Market at the Lane Agri-Park, videos from Master Gardener projects and videos from the Boro Garden Party presenters are uploaded and available for viewing and education.

Speaking of the Farmers Market, the opening day at the Lane Agri-Park complex at 315 John R. Rice Boulevard is Friday, May 12. The market opens at 7 a.m. and closes at noon. This market is a producer-only market. What that means is only local producers with product from this area can be sold.

(So, no coconuts—ever!) The market is held inside and is open on Tuesdays and Fridays only. Classes are free and open to all. They start at 9 a.m. and last about 1 hour.

Beekeeping 101 Susan Welchance, Rutherford County Beekeeper Association Learn about honey bees, what they mean to our environment, beekeeping in Rutherford County and the many products from the hive.

MAY 16 Adding Rabbits to Your Homestead Kim Hall, Extension Agent Learn how to start raising rabbits in your backyard.

MAY 19 A $10 Bush & A $30 Hole: Correctly Planting Trees & Shrubs Mitchell Mote, Extension Agent Make the most of your investments and learn how to properly install trees and shrubs to minimize future decline.

MAY 23 – Organic and Sustainable Gardening Techniques Reggie Reeves, Master Gardener We’ll cover current information regarding safe and effective organic pest control options and how to fertilize your garden using organic methods and amendments.

MAY 26 – Tomato Time, Mark Murphy, Master Gardener Fun facts, interesting info and growing tips for the most popular garden fruit.

MAY 30 – More Matters Kim Minter-Verge and Karla Erazo Eating the rainbow, learn the color nutrients!

JUNE 2 Home Water Conservation: Making the Most of It! Katie Peay, Rutherford County Planning & Engineering Lowering your carbon footprint and conserving water can be difficult. Learn easy ways to make your home more green!

Living PHOTOS COURTESY NEW VISION PRISON MINISTRY

FROM INDIA with Love

Pastor John Spurgeon finds purpose in ministering to local inmates.

STORY BY BRACKEN MAYO

J

ohn Spurgeon sees the worst of Murfreesboro. He has spent time with those involved in abuse, addiction, sex trafficking, violence, families far beyond dysfunctional, theft, disorderly and dangerous behavior, and crime and bad situations of various types.

Spurgeon serves as the Prison Ministry Director for New Vision Baptist Church and the chaplain at both the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center and the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center.

“It hurts my heart to see a 3- or 4-yearold talking to his father in jail,” Spurgeon says. “We want to stop the cycle of crime . . . We can stop recidivism in this county if we reach out to the families.”

Over the past few years, Spurgeon and many others in Rutherford County have worked on a support structure, built on the teachings of Jesus, to try and make an impact in the lives of those who have been incarcerated for committing crimes.

“I want every person to know that God loves them, that there is a second chance,” Spurgeon says.

Through the Love in Action program, volunteers from the community come to meet one-on-one with an “adopted” inmate once a week. Even after the inmate is released, their volunteer mentor stays with them, and walks with them as they find a job, clothes, housing and the next chapter of their life, Spurgeon says.

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“When an inmate gets out, often there is low self-esteem, guilt and shame,” Spurgeon says. “For every inmate to have a mentor, that is my dream.”

Spurgeon and the New Vision team have already launched a church that meets regularly in the workhouse, and have baptized many there.

“This May we are launching a church in 940,” the pastor continues. “My ultimate goal is to launch a church in Riverbend [Maximum Security Institution in Nashville].”

And through a special project, a small group of workhouse inmates can actually earn the opportunity to leave the work center under supervision and attend a church service.

“We got special permission from Mayor Burgess and Mayor McFarland to bring

inmates to church in their orange suits,” Spurgeon says. “They have to earn the right to leave the jail, they have to qualify. It’s helping promote peace and good behavior.

They want to get out.”

When a group of local inmates initially attended a church service at New Vision Baptist, Spurgeon said he felt he should address the congregation.

“The first time, I told the church ‘We are all no good, they just got caught. They are no different from you or I. Let’s not differentiate,’” Spurgeon says.

And he says, for the most part, the people in Murfreesboro’s churches have welcomed the men in orange warmly, and have demonstrated that there are thousands of people in the community who care

about the inmates’ lives and futures.

One Sunday each month, Spurgeon and Rutherford County sheriff officers take 24 inmates to a different church, and now there is not only a waiting list of inmates who want to attend, but churches who want to host them.

Churches are scheduled through July 2018, Spurgeon says, and some of the Murfreesboro organizations who participate include North Boulevard Church of Christ, Experience Community, First United Methodist, First Baptist, World Outreach and City Church, among others.

“Sheriff Fitzhugh is so cooperative, he is so positive,” Spurgeon says. “We also reach out to the [jail and workhouse] staff. These officers interact with the inmates every day.”

Some local law enforcement officers will join inmates in church, where their families worship alongside each other, and Spurgeon also thanks jail officials Bernard Salandy and Jim Cope for being supportive and helping connect the local ministry community with the jail and workhouse population.

“Some female inmates will have an opportunity to leave the workhouse on Mother’s Day,” Spurgeon says.

The pastor emphazises goal setting and focusing on a vision when he communicates with inmates and those recently released from incarceration. He knows changing is a difficult process, but when a person surrounds themselves with others who want to help accomplish a goal—whether it be overcoming addiction, finding stable housing, the aim of treating others in society with love and respect or avoiding the crowd and activities the landed them in jail—that goal can be accomplished with the help of community support.

“It’s not about me. It’s about God. I give glory to God,” says Spurgeon.

While Spurgeon comes from a Christian household, he did not grow up in one of the Murfreesboro churches he works with

today; in fact, he hails from the opposite side of the globe.

Spurgeon grew up in India, where his father, Dr. P. Joshi, operates a large evangelical ministry.

“He’s known as the Billy Graham of India,” Spurgeon says.

Spurgeon’s father chose to give him the name Spurgeon after Charles Spurgeon, the influential Baptist preacher.

“He told me later that he named me after him so I would impact nations with the Gospel,” John Spurgeon tells a Murfreesboro man.

Though it went against his upbringing, Spurgeon says that as a teenager he would fill his weekends with drugs, drinking and dancing in the nightclubs; he says he became addicted to the party lifestyle.

Hung over one Sunday morning, discouraged that a liquor store was closed, Spurgeon wandered into a church next to the store. Sitting in the back of the church, Spurgeon felt as though the preacher was speaking directly to him, instructing him to forsake the ways of the world and give his life to Christ.

He pinpoints that moment as the turning point of refocusing his life; Spurgeon would soon decide to enter the ministry, and in 2003, he came to the U.S. to attend seminary in Cincinnati. After graduating, Spurgeon knew his Indian accent was still thick, but was told by a professor, “It’s not your job to make sure people understand you, it’s God’s job.”

He says he “fell in love with prison ministry” and knew he wanted to reach the prisoner population with a message of hope and healing. He also reconnected with a girl from India named Zion and fell in love with her as well. The couple married and lived in Canada for a time.

Spurgeon received a job offer at a church in Smyrna, and the two traveled down south. However, after leasing an apartment in Tennessee, Spurgeon says the church withdrew the job offer . . . and his wife

discovered she was pregnant.

“I said ‘God, you need to do something about this,’” Spurgeon recalls.

As the young couple tried to find medical care for the mother and baby, a member of hospital management told Spurgeon, who had radiology experience in India, that he could possibly get a job at the hospital.

Spurgeon brought his radiology certifications and credentials to the interview, but quickly learned that he was up for a janitor position—which he accepted.

“God was humbling me,” he says.

After their child was born, Spurgeon went on staff at a church in Nashville, but eventually, even while employed at this other church he said he would come to services at New Vision Baptist in Murfreesboro to listen to pastor Brady Cooper’s messages and felt called to be there.

New Vision ended up placing Spurgeon on its staff, and the church has since grown its local prison ministry to serve the inmates and their families.

While Spurgeon has ministered to many, many people in Murfreesboro, he sees the work spreading far beyond the confines of 940 and the Rutherford County workhouse.

“I want to travel the world and work with prison systems all over, and tell them that there is hope,” Spurgeon says.

His vision includes reaching prisoners in China, in Africa and elsewhere, and one day writing a book about his tale of redemption, immigration, grace and service.

“Christianity is not a religion, it is a lifestyle,” Spurgeon tells his congregation.

Mainly, Spurgeon wants to spread the message that “If you take a mess, and give it to the Master, he will make a miracle.”

For more information on the prison ministry in Rutherford County and volunteering for the Love in Action program, visit newvisionlife.com/prisonministry or contact john.spurgeon@newvisionlife.com.

Movies FREE FIRE DIRECTOR Ben Wheatley STARRING Sharito Copley,

Brie Larson, Armie Hammer RATED R

Free Fire is billed as an action comedy, but it’s neither exhilarating nor hilarious. It’s not bad or mislabeled, it’s just more understated than either of those terms would suggest, especially for a film that is essentially an hour-long gunfight.

Set in late ’70s Boston, the film opens with a clandestine arms deal between two cadres of lowlifes. The buyers are led by Chris (Murphy), a cool, collected Irishman, and the sellers are led by Vernon (Sharlto Copley), an arrogant and ineffectual South African. The first third of Free Fire is fire-free. As each step of the transaction is carried out, everyone acts tough by spouting out sexist, homophobic, macho BS (the film rivals Reservoir Dogs in average F’s/minute) save the lone woman, Justine (Larson), who

brokered the deal and deflects said bullshit from both sides with practiced ease. When the tension finally erupts­­—as it obviously will—it comes from a combination of minor slights, misunderstandings and petty­­­­­­beefs rather than a big, duplicitous double-cross.

And then the fire is set free. From the tone of the film: irreverent, cheeky and other such synonyms, one might expect the violence to follow suit, something in the vein of Kingsmen: The Secret Service with bombastic stunts, gore galore and a wink. Free Fire has more in common with Blue Ruin, however,

GHOSTS IN THE SHELL DIRECTOR

James Mangold STARRING

Scarlett Johansson, Pilou Asbaek RATED PG-13

A CLASSIC

26 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

Well, I must appreciate a film that goes all in on a premise. Ghosts in the Shell is a remake of a 1995 animated film by the same name, a film that has inspired multiple sequels and even a TV show since its release.

And, while I do appreciate a film going all in on a premise and doing a great job with “immersion,” this film, featuring Major (Johansson, a cyber-enhanced human devoted to stopping the world’s most dangerous criminals), does it so well (minus the fact OUTSTANDING

in that everyone is more or less inept. The abandoned factory where the shootout (and entire film) takes place becomes a sort of playground for posturing children playing at real war. Instead of running and gunning, the previously puffed-up thugs cower for cover and shoot blind. Director Ben Wheatley captures the scene with a keen eye, following groups and stragglers as they crawl and limp for safety, hurling sarcastic obscenities at each other as often as bullets. The effect isn’t used entirely to shock, nor entirely for comedic effect, but feels both realistic and absurd that there’s no people in this giant, sprawling city) that it will likely turn off most mainstream American audiences.

There were many points throughout the film where I had to ask myself “what just happened?” and before I had time to figure it out we were onto the next thing. So, eventually I just turned my brain off and enjoyed the visuals of this film.

No doubt the strongest part of this film, the visuals here are breathtaking. Whether it be skyscraper-tall advertisements, or an invisible Scarlett Johansson taking on a bad guy in water, this film excelled at looking absolutely gorgeous. Sadly, though, great visuals do not equate to a great film, and the second you try and figure out just what the heck is going on in this story . . . you’ll be lost.

I went with some friends who are superinto this franchise and they seemed to mostly enjoy it, so if you’re a fan of the originals you’ll probably like this one. If you like sci-fi and want to look at something pretty, check it out; if not, consider seeing Life instead to get your sci-fi on. — JOSEPH KATHMANN AVERAGE

BELOW AVERAGE

within the context of the action genre.

The ultimate effect is a story less about violence than the colorful characters who are so bad at it. Armie Hammer (whose visionary parents deserve a medal for literally naming him Armand Hammer) charms as the suave, no-nonsense Ord, the most seemingly capable of the bunch. Then there’s Stevo and Harry (Sam Riley and Jack Reynour), a couple of bumblebutts whose rivalry helps spark the firefight. Sharlto Copley (District 9), however, takes the cake as Vernon, a transparent blowhard who was “misdiagnosed as a child genius, and never got over it,” and whose favorite catchphrase is “watch and Vern.” That kind of absurdist character, paired with the its incongruous but effective acoustic ’70s soundtrack and a not-too-light, not-too-serious tone, make Free Fire an interesting oddity not to be overlooked.

— JAY SPIGHT

OPENING IN MAY MAY 5

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 MAY 19

Alien: Covenant MAY 25

Baywatch MAY 26

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales MAY 26

Black Butterfly 

AVOID AT ALL COSTS

DEAD

Movies

 LOCAL FILM

Middle Tennessee filmmaking team debuts camp-slasher

Black Holler STORY BY TANNER DEDMON

W

ith a combination of campiness, cheese and Middle Tennessee, the locally-made film Black Holler made its big-screen debut at the Belcourt Theatre on April 24.

A satirical take on the camp-slasher genre, Black Holler marks director Jason Berg’s first voyage into full-length films.

Starring local actress Tamiko Robinson Steele as the street-smart LaQuita Johnson and written by a Middle Tennessee crew of Berg, Heidi Ervin and Rachel Ward Heggen, the horror spoof showcases a group of campers being picked off on a seemingly innocent field trip. Berg said that the entire cast and crew shared a passion for both the corny and classic movies of the ’80s and films such as Sleepaway Camp and The Evil Dead, with character tropes from The Breakfast Club among their inspirations.

The movie opened with two screenings at the Belcourt, the first boasting a bloody, redcarpet experience with a Q&A session following the movie, while the second, a rowdy,

28 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

late-night showing, permitted the audience to interact with the onscreen characters by shouting out responses to visual cues and catchphrases in true Rocky Horror fashion.

“I was really happy to see it up there on the big screen and see people laugh at the jokes we wrote,” Berg said.

Ervin echoed his sentiments, adding that the crew was just five seats shy of a sellout for the first showing and had a half-packed room for the second, a turnout she said was not bad at all for a Monday night premiere.

Production members agreed that when it came to premiering Black Holler, there was no question what venue they’d select.

“The entire production team is from the area,” said Berg. “Belcourt’s always been a staple for us.”

But before it transitioned from the Tennessee woods to the Belcourt, Black Holler’s roots ran deep at MTSU. Many of the cast and production crew attended MTSU and met each other there, meetings that ultimately led to the 3-year project that turned into Black Holler.

“Rachel and I met through MTSU, and Heidi and Rachel met through MTSU, so you could really say that without MTSU, this particular formation would never have

happened,” said Berg.

It started as a short film, about 21 pages worth of content that Ervin and Heggen brought to Berg which was soon worked into a 45-page script by the trio. After they began filming, they soon returned to the drawing board when they realized there was plenty more story to be fleshed out. Dimensions to the story were added, depth was given to characters and a feature film was in the works.

A certain degree of cheesiness certainly permeates the film, literally and figuratively, both forms that Berg said were intentional.

As the tropey characters stumble their way through the woods, slipping and falling and constantly making poor decisions in true horror movie fashion, there’s constantly some form of cheese being shown or eaten by the characters. Square cheese, squeeze cheese, all cheese is fair game in Black Holler.

“We really wanted to put these people in a situation to be their dumbest selves, and the cheese thing was mostly just an onscreen representation of how we felt about the movie,” said Berg when asked about the inclusion of all that scary dairy. “We set out to make a movie where these characters are tropes; every single one of them is a trope from ’80s cinema. It’s really just a personification of a characteristic of the movie.”

Moving forward from the premiere, there are plans to submit the movie to film festivals to pick up some more traction. Ervin mentioned hopes of having the film eventually be available on Netflix or Amazon while Berg noted that becoming a cult classic like The Rocky Horror Picture Show or The Room would certainly be an achievement.

In the nearer future, there is a second screening at the Looby Theater in Nashville for the Tennessee Women’s Theater Project’s eleventh annual Women’s Work Festival on Sunday, May 7 at 2:30 p.m. for those who missed the premiere or just want to take another trip into the holler.

To purchase tickets for the May 7 screening, visit twtp.org; for more information on the film, find Black Holler on Facebook or visit blackholler.com.

LIVING ROOM CINEMA Robert Mapplethorpe column by NORBERT THIEMANN

facebook.com/livingroomcinema

Robert Mapplethorpe left behind a river of material for his esteemed legacy.

He took up a serious interest in photography starting in the late 1960s, and worked until his death at age 42 from complications connected with the AIDS virus in 1989. The Getty Museum has prided itself in the guardianship of his provocative works. He was less a technician toward process, but very strong in visual impact. Throughout Mapplethorpe’s short career his work was often censored, or completely banned from display.  Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe (2007) is directed by James Crump. Noted art collector, Sam Wagstaff had the brilliant foresight to foster the important photographic work of Robert Mapplethorpe. Wagstaff, like Mapplethorpe, succumbed to AIDS two years earlier, in 1987.

 Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures (2016) is a documentary directed by Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.

Mapplethorpe’s life is well chronicled, and the film boasts interviews with many of the people who were in his presence.

News RIGHT TO DETAIN?

Family of 16-year-old fighting the system after teen was detained for 90 hours following recent traffic stop.

R

STORY BY JUSTIN STOKES

utherford County has seen multiple ethical issues arise from its criminal justice system recently, from the criminal activities of former Sheriff Robert Arnold to the complaints of “abusive” payment practices against Providence Community Corrections to a pending lawsuit filed against Juvenile Detention Center officials.

Another recent complaint of questionable treatment by the county toward those facing judicial action stems from an incident involving Rutherford County resident Ethan Castaneda. His entrance into the local legal system as a defendant goes back to Oct. 6, 2016. Not long before midnight, the 16-year-old was driving home after dropping off a friend and visiting a nearby Sonic Drive-In. He was headed home on Almaville Road passing Inez Drive, not far from Stewart’s Creek High School, where he came to the scene of several Rutherford County Sheriff ’s Officers engaged in a traffic stop of another vehicle.

Because of the traffic stop—in other words, the placement of multiple vehicles stopped on the road—an eighteen-wheeler attempting to turn left was unable to do so, and was therefore also stopped in the opposite lane.

According to the Castaneda Family, Ethan was able to see the lights of the RCSO vehicles. But both the headlights of the semitruck facing him and the overall darkness of the area didn’t allow for total visibility of the road, where several RCSO officers were apparently standing in the road. Ethan shares that he was doing the legal speed limit, and not wanting to “rubberneck,” he proceeded through the area without slowing down.

Ethan was pulled over by RCSO’s Deputy Keith. Per the police report, Deputy Keith says that he “had to jump onto another vehicle to keep from getting hit,” and that Castaneda was driving “in disregard to public safety.” Keith claims that he both noticed the odor of intoxication and that Ethan had bloodshot eyes.

Ethan insisted that hadn’t been drinking, 30 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

and explained to Deputy Keith that he didn’t see anyone in the road, and thought that because the police lights looked to be a safe distance from the road, he assumed the road safe for travel. Rather than give Castaneda a field sobriety test, Deputy Keith placed Ethan under arrest for Driving Under the Influence, Consumption of Alcohol Under 21, Felony Reckless Endangerment and Curfew Violation.

The Castaneda Family says that Ethan was taken to St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, where he was to be medically cleared. Ethan, a minor who did not have a guardian present, according to his family, was not told that he would be subjected to testing his blood and urine for an alcohol/ drug screening to measure his Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.).

Rather, officials told the juvenile that he needed to be “medically cleared” before he could go to detention.

“I asked the hospital if that was a regular screening for pre-detention and I was quickly referred to their legal department,” said Ethan’s father, Alex Castaneda.

According to the “Narrative” section of the Sheriff ’s Report for the incident, “Ethan’s urine test came back positive for alcohol but Mr. Castaneda kept denying consuming any alcoholic beverage.”

Deputy Keith also says that the field sobriety test “was not performed for officer safety reasons.”

After leaving the hospital, Ethan was transferred to the Rutherford County Juvenile Detention Center, where he was booked. The incident, which occurred just before midnight on Friday, Oct. 7, had Ethan in the custody of the JDC until his court date on Monday, Oct. 10, at 1 p.m., which resulted in house arrest and loss of driving privileges. After several subsequent preliminary hearings, Ethan’s trial is now set for June.

A key detail of this incident includes the fact that the TBI’s Official Alcohol Report states that Ethan’s blood sample tested negative for alcohol, potentially meaning

that the grounds on which Ethan was initially processed aren’t entirely accurate.

Presuming both the integrity and competence of Deputy Keith, the idea of a “false positive” registering on a urine screening brings up the following question: how many people are taken into police custody based on test results that aren’t entirely accurate? And are the results of this test—or the test itself for that matter—available for public scrutiny?

It should also be noted that the field sobriety test wasn’t offered to Ethan because Deputy Keith officially expressed fear for his safety. The Narrative section of the Sheriff ’s Report makes no mention that Ethan was combative or disrespectful in any fashion, and no mention of a weapon is made. In addition, four other RCSO officers were in the immediate area handling the previous traffic stop.

If Ethan was cooperative with Deputy Keith, does the sentiment “I was afraid for my life”—a term frequently associated with excessive use for force—see justifiable use within this circumstance?

Because of Castaneda’s status as a minor, neither the Rutherford County Sheriff ’s Office nor the District Attorney General’s office are legally able to comment on the case.

But speaking to the Pulse about the incident, Alex Castaneda expressed dismay for the way the situation was handled.

Mr. Castaneda, a former police officer of two decades and now the Security and Emergency Services Manager for a hospital in Central Louisiana, said that he has many questions that remain unanswered regarding the incident and criticized the way it was handled.

“Well, I’ve been in this business almost 23 years now,” he says. “There are protocols, policies and procedures that we as law enforcement officers go by . . . not to mention the laws set in place to help us make the right decisions about the situations we find ourselves engaged in on a daily basis. Had Deputy Keith used the tools and training provided him, he would have performed a field sobriety test to determine the extent (if any) of Ethan’s alleged intoxication. He didn’t, and now it’s put not only him in a bad spot, but his partners that night, as well as the integrity of his flailing department that is already suffering a bad reputation as is.”

Mr. Castaneda says that he chatted with Deputy Keith to get information from the officer. He says that Keith acknowledges that Ethan was respectful and shared that he didn’t see the officer, but still expressed fear for his safety (which Castaneda cites as the

same answer Keith gave the judge during the initial hearing when asked why Ethan was detained so long). He shares that Keith didn’t know what Ethan’s B.A.C. was despite the fact that Keith’s report says that Ethan tested positive for alcohol consumption.

To understand his criticism of his son’s treatment, Alex refers to items like Rule 6 of the Tennessee Rules of Juvenile Procedure or the Rutherford County Standard Operating Procedures. His understanding is that “a juvenile is to be held no more than 72 hours and to be afforded the first available court date for hearing.” According to Alex, Ethan was locked up for 84 hours and in custody for almost 90 hours.

Mr. Castaneda says that he asked Keith why a juvenile was held past the 72-hour window, to which he said Keith had no response. Further pressing the question, Alex asked the RCSO deputy why Ethan didn’t go before the magistrate Friday morning or afternoon, since those would have been the most immediate court dates available.

He said that Deputy Keith’s response was a chuckle and “because I didn’t get the paperwork done on time. So he’ll just have to sit there until Monday.”

Alex’s criticism isn’t limited to Deputy Keith or the RCSO. Mr. Castaneda tells the Pulse that he chatted with both The Honorable Jennings Jones and Juvenile ADA Leslie Collum, and claims that neither could explain to him why his son was in RCSO custody for 90 hours (with both referring him to the Juvenile Detention Center,) and says that he’s “never seen such incompetence in one system before.”

The economic effect to the family has been one that’s steadily grown since October. Between attorney fees, the towing cost of Ethan’s vehicle, hotel and travel costs for Alex to be present for the first court appearance, and the hospital bills for Ethan’s visit that the family is expected to pay, Mr. Castaneda’s last estimate of the damages has cost about $9,100 thus far (with the legal fees only accounting for two court appearances).

In addition, he says that his son’s house arrest has affected his social life and emotional health, and that the stress of the incident is “going to follow him for the rest of his lifetime.”

Local attorney Amanda Gentry represents Ethan Castaneda.

“In general,” Gentry shares, the time that Ethan was detained “is directly in opposition to the standard operating procedures, the Tennessee Code Annotated, and Tennessee

Rules of Juvenile Procedure.”

She shares that the problem is bigger than Ethan, providing that “Rutherford County detains children at approximately two times the statewide rate, and their written policies mandate detention for certain offenses. But the statute 37-1114(c) explicitly prohibits detention in this exact situation. In this particular case, the law enforcement officer delayed turning in the paperwork, intentional or otherwise, which resulted in a violation of all mechanisms in place designed to avoid this exact situation.”

Gentry offered the Pulse a comment from Lynn Duke, Director of Rutherford County Juvenile Detention that she says points a general problem with holding juveniles. In the memo, sent by Duke to a local law enforcement official, the Juvenile Detention Center director seems to offer a lenient philosophy in having juveniles held, saying “Please remind your fellow officers that all they have to do is have a conversation with JDC staff. If they say ‘I really want this kid held,’ 9 times out of 10 we can make it happen.”

Duke is one of three parties currently targeted in a lawsuit claiming a 15-yearold suffering from mental health issues was locked in solitary confinement; allegedly, the teen was held in seclusion for 23 hours a day with no books or other materials and that his cell window was covered with a board.

Gentry doesn’t deny the potential for danger to the officers in the incident, but still raises some valid questions. She cites Alex’s professional concerns about the lack of personal protective clothing (“reflective gear”), the general environment of the traffic stop, and the overall responsibilities of the officers to provide a safe roadway for both themselves and traveling motorists. She maintains the innocence of her client. In her review of the dash-cam footage from the incident, she says that Ethan was not driving recklessly. Her professional assessment of the situation is one that might imply exaggeration on the accounts of the officers; most likely, Ethan did not actually almost kill the officer.

Gentry also states that the officers were in the middle of the road from 11:52–11:55 p.m. talking.

As the trial date approaches for the court to sift through this matter, questions swirl: Is it fair to state that Ethan was driving recklessly? Is it the responsibility of RCSO officers to make sure that the roads are safe? Do the actions of the RCSO reflect the best interests of the county? Or could this situation have been handled better?

News

NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM SERIES BY BRYCE HARMON

PART 10

Pleads and Crowds “Clerk of Courts Eloise Gaither [predecessor of Melissa Harrell, the current Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk] says Rutherford County’s population has grown by 172 percent since the court building opened in 1981,” according to the Insurance Journal article, “Overflowing Court Docket Creates Fire Hazard in Tenn.,” published in January 2008, that covered the Jan. 8, 2008 judicial building overcrowding, adding, “There were more than 530 cases on the General Sessions Court docket Tuesday and sheriff ’s Sergeant Mike Potts said the hallways were entirely filled with people.”

Though the General Sessions Court Judges’ daily docket count seldom reaches such a high number of defendants to appear before a judge any given morning, it has come close several times over the years since my initial court date on Jan. 8, 2008. Half of the reported amount of such a chaotic court docket total for such a small building, resting in the northwest corner of the Square, is an average amount of daily cases in the General Sessions Criminal court.

The area-wide coverage of the Jan. 8, 2008, overcrowding was one of the first utterances of plans to create a new judicial building, too, as Mayor Ernest Burgess stated Rutherford County had consultants meeting with court officials about the workload of the judges and hoped to work through 2030 “to deal with the increase in the criminal justice system.”

In May 2016 it was reported that Rutherford County allocated a $73 million budget for the replacement judicial building, with “$15 million [already] moved from the General Debt Service Fund [a sub-fund of the county’s general fund containing money designated to pay county debts] to the General Capital Project fund [a sub-fund within the county’s general fund designated for county projects such as the judicial building and the accompanying, jointly owned Murfreesboro/Rutherford County parking garage] to provide cash flow for the Judicial Center and Parking Garage projects,” according to the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury.

PUBLIC INTOXICATION

Under Tennessee law, Public Intoxication is a Class C misdemeanor, which is the lowestlevel misdemeanor category among three misdemeanor classifications (A, B and C). A Class C misdemeanor carries the least severe punish-

32 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

ments of the three misdemeanor classifications of a “fine not to exceed $50, or imprisonment in the county jail or workhouse for not longer than 30 days, or both fine and imprisonment,” as explained in Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) section 40-35-111, which stands as the General Sessions Judges’ sentencing guidelines.

Before his retirement as General Sessions Criminal Judge in September of 2014, part of Judge David Loughry’s job presiding over the General Sessions Criminal court was to determine I understood the charge brought against me and the subsequent actions of the court taken to move the case to a resolution.

My case information was sent to the District Attorney’s office in room 106, where a judgment form was filled in with a plea deal by the D.A. on behalf of the State of Tennessee, attached to my case information packet and sent back to be read to me by Judge Loughry.

Judge Loughry explained to me what the D.A.’s offer was, which was the punishment for Public Intoxication according to Tennessee law, and that if I pleaded guilty to the charge brought against me by the Murfreesboro Police Department, I would give up my rights to a trial and to an attorney, would be subject to the fullest extent of the law monetarily ($50 fine), as well as be obligated to serve a 30-day sentence at 940. In this case, though, Judge Loughry substituted the law’s corresponding jail time of 30 days imprisonment with an equal-in-length probationary period supervised by a privately owned probationmanagement company the county contracted to handle their misdemeanor probation cases.

I signed under a paragraph on the judgment form that states, “I hereby acknowledge that I understand the foregoing rights, and without force, or threats, or promises by any person, I do hereby VOLUNTARILY plead GUILTY to the offense with which I am charged in this case, and I hereby WAIVE (give up) all of my foregoing rights, and in particular, I waive my rights to be represented by an attorney if I do not already have one, and my right to a trial by jury, and my right to have any fine greater than $50.00 assessed by a jury, and I request a disposition of my case in the Court of General Sessions of Rutherford County, Tennessee, with my consent that such court be vested, in my case, with all the authority that otherwise

would be conferred on a jury.”

Defendants have to sign a separate Waiver of Attorney section to complete the process of waiving their rights.

After this, Judge Loughry ruled I had plead guilty and was not found guilty or not guilty, as would happen when a defendant goes to trial. I was then directed across the courtroom to a blonde lady at one of the wooden tables signing people up for probationary periods supervised and managed by PCC, who allowed me to pay the $349 court costs and fines for an additional “supervision fee” of $46.

For the charge of Public Intoxication in 2008, The bill of costs states I paid $62 for the clerk fee, $4 for judicial commission, $40 for the Arrest, the $50 fine, $12 jail fee, $29.50 state tax, $26.50 county tax, $7 penalty tax (for not paying that day), $45.50 county litigation tax, and handwritten in by the General Sessions clerk that day is a $12.50 charge for a Public Defender fund, $10 for additional county tax, $5 for the booking fee (940) and $45 for the victim assistance assessment fund, totaling $349. The $349 court costs and fines, plus PCC’s supervised probation fees of $51, were paid in full through PCC with student loan money and all terms and conditions of Judge Loughry’s orders were met by Feb. 5, 2008.

All in all, it cost $400 for a morning in court to plead guilty to a Public Intoxication charge in 2008.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS

I appeared at the Rutherford County Judicial Building in front of Judge Loughry again on Monday June 7, 2010, under the charge of Criminal Trespass. According to the police report made on my arrest date for the charge, I was “in violation of T.C.A. 39-14-405,” which states the specific criteria in order to be charged with Criminal Trespass in the state of Tennessee in 2010 and that it falls under a Class C misdemeanor, like a Public Intoxication charge.

The Rutherford County court proceedings for a charge of equal weight as my previous Public Intoxication charge were different, though.

To begin with, there was no media attention around an overcrowded court house, and this criminal misdemeanor charge was ultimately agreed to be retired when brought back between docket calls from the D.A.’s office. The retirement agreement entailed I waive my rights to trial and an attorney like in the Public Intoxication case, but mentioned that I represented myself, or as it’s simply stated, “Pro Se,” on the General Sessions’ “Agreed Order of Retirement” form that is the equiva-

lent of the Public Intoxication’s Judgment form. I was not clear on this at the time, as I had forgot that part of my brief Latin studies at MTSU, and “Pro Se” was not defined in court, so I unknowingly represented myself.

The retirement agreement also explains, “upon agreement by the District Attorney General and the Defendant. . . if no action is taken in this matter and all conditions are complete the defense may petition the Court to dismiss this case and expunge the pertinent records as provided by law,” so long as I remain on “Good and Lawful conduct,” “Report to PCC 1 per month until Conditions met,” “Pay Costs through PCC with an administrative fee of $35/month,” and “Stay Away” from Tiger Hill.

That was the agreement, and the case would be dismissed and expunged from my record.

I signed it, as I did with the Public Intoxication charge, agreeing to plead guilty to the D.A.’s retirement deal, and was placed on probation through PCC for 11 months and 29 days, instead of the 30-day length of time T.C.A. section 40-35-111 (which specifies a Class C misdemeanor’s punishment under TN law) guidelines.

For the charge of Criminal Trespass in 2010, the bill of costs states I paid $63 clerk’s fee, $4 judicial commission, $40 for the arrest, $29.50 in state tax, $26.50 in county tax, $15 penalty tax (for not paying that day), $63.85 county litigation tax, $12.50 for a Public Defender fee, $45 for victim assistance assessment fund, $10 additional county tax, $25 for court security, $10 booking fee (940), and $1 for a victim notification fee, all totaling $345.35.

On top of the $345.35 in court costs and fines, which was $4.65 cheaper than the Public Intoxication charge, and the additional $285.65 (83% of the initial court costs) I paid to PCC for their supervision costs and fees over the course of 7 months until Jan. 20, 2011, when I no longer had to report monthly, meaning I was on “unsupervised” probation, my 11 month 29 day probationary period for the charge of Criminal Trespass ended on June 6, 2011.

All in all, it costs $631 for a morning in court to plead guilty to Criminal Trespass in 2010.

Around the time this Criminal Trespass case was closed in the courts in the beginning of June, 2011, the court’s docket numbers of people like myself going through the General Sessions Criminal courts and paying into the county’s general fund because of their actions averaged 259 cases a day by the end of 2011, according to rutherfordcountytn.gov.

TO BE CONTINUED . . .

AROUND TOWN ’BORO BUSINESS BUZZ

Kitchen Fresh, EscapePoint, Jack’s Place, Bonilla’s, Reed & Embry

After many months of preparation and perfection, Milano II owner Jack Barakat has opened the building next to his primary restaurant as JACK’S PLACE, an intimate bar serving wine, mixed drinks and appetizers. Though the two establishments have separate entrances, customers can flow from one space to the other inside, as the new space is connected to the Milano restaurant, a popular downtown eatery serving a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

KITCHEN FRESH plans to open this summer at the Fountains at Gateway. The establishment will offer “fast, affordable, organic” food, according to its website, and many in the community have expressed excitement over a Murfreesboro eatery offering natural, plant-based choices. Kitchen Fresh will include an outdoor patio and a stage for entertainment. For more information, visit eatkitchenfresh.com.

Donnie Noland announces the opening of Murfreesboro’s newest escape room experience, ESCAPEPOINT, located at 855 W. College St., Murfreesboro. The fourth escape game to open in Murfreesboro over the past couple of years, EscapePoint, once completed, will offer eight rooms and over 4,000 square feet of puzzles, mysteries and stories.

Noland said he expects EscapePoint to eventually employ over 50 people, and the business will offer interactive experiences and unique team building aspects. For more information, visit theescapepoint.com.

Work on the next phase of EAST MAIN VILLAGE TOWNHOMES continues near Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Vine Street.

This is across Vine Street from the existing townhomes in the development, which sit next to Jimmy John’s and the Boulevard just off of the MTSU campus. The approved site plan includes a total of 44 townhomes between the two lots. The three-story townhomes sell for approximately $199,000 each, according to developer Regent Homes.

Todd Wilson, the proprietor of TWO-TONE TATTOO PARLOR AND ART GALLERY, has announced that his shop will move from its Lytle Street location (which is near the site of the new county judicial building and its surrounding road closures).

Two-Tone, will soon open at its new home, 17 S. Public Square, next to Woodsviking Barber Shop.

Chase Hamlin has purchased the 9ROUND franchise in Murfreesboro, located at 2658 New Salem Hwy. 9Round offers its members fitness training through kickboxing routines, intense cardio and functional fitness exercises.

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REED & EMBRY has taken over the downtown Murfreesboro spot at 117 S. Church St. Jason Reed and Michael Embry have created and sold handmade furniture and home decor items over the past couple of years through the Nashville Flea Market and their Etsy shop, but the business owners say they are now extremely proud to announce the opening of a brick-and-mortar store. The shop will offer custom beds, tables, nightstands, shelves and a myriad of lighting fixtures, and the operators say they intend to open more stores in the Middle Tennessee area over the coming years.

Sandra Bonilla has leased the space at 111 E. Lytle St. and has opened BONILLA’S HAIR STYLE in the spacious location. The building, once home to Stonekeepers, sits next to Enchanted Planet.

WOODEN IT BE NICE opened for busi-

ness in April 2017 at 147 W. Northfield Blvd.

The shop features furniture, home accents and garden décor that is handmade, re-purposed or unique. Local artist are welcome to sell original furniture and home and garden items at Wooden It Be Nice by consignment agreement to supplement their online sales.

For more information, call (615) 624-1421.

MUSIC WORLD AND DRUMMER’S DEN, a Church Street music store offering

instruments, lessons and equipment rentals, hosted representatives from Taylor Guitars on April 24 as part of Taylor’s traveling Taylor Road Show. Local guitar enthusiasts packed the house to listen to and try out various Taylors, Baby Taylors, acoustic basses, 12-strings and a few versions of the hollowbody T5, a “groundbreaking hollowbody that bridges the electric and acoustic worlds like no other guitar, giving gigging players a versatile range of electric and amplified acoustic flavors, all in one guitar,” according to Taylor literature.

Stop in Music World regularly for information on other upcoming workshops and demonstrations, or to check out a nice selection of fine guitars from Taylor and other manufacturers.

A group of government agents joined forces in a surprise visit to HIPPIE HILL one day earlier this spring, according to Tom Maddox, a.k.a. Hippie, who runs the commune on the outskirts of Rutherford County.

The U.S. Marshals, who were searching for Tad Cummins and Elizabeth Thomas at the time, seemed satisfied after searching the property for the wanted alleged kidnapper and teenager and finding no sign that they had been to Hippie Hill.

The Tennessee Department of Health officials notified Hippie and Mama Jeanie that if they were selling food out of the common kitchen area, then they would be subject to the rules, regulations, inspections and fees that any restaurant must follow; after confirming that the commune’s residents shared the kitchen for cooking meals they consumed, and were not selling food out of it, the officials concurred they wouldn’t have jurisdiction over a private kitchen.

However, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Hippie and took him to the Rutherford County Jail over a zoning violation. Evidently, Hippie Hill falls under a “primitive campground” zoning classification; on these types of properties, residents and visitors must occupy tents.

“There’s no RVs on a primitive campground,” said Mama Jeanie. “No cabins, no campers.”

For years, Hippie and Mama Jeanie have allowed homeless individuals and others in need of a temporary, or in some cases long-term, rustic living situation, to stay at their Hippie Hill campground. They say (even though most people would prefer to sleep in a bed in an RV rather than on the ground) they do plan to move all RVs and campers from the property, and set up some teepees as a solution, so they are in compliance with state regulations that govern primitive campsites.

“The state health officer is trying to work with us legally to resolve this,” Hippie said.

Hippie says he wants to continue the work of Hippie Hill, giving a place to those who have no other place to go.

The property owner said that if he owed a fine, if he needed to do something to his property, call him into town and he’d take care of it, but having him arrested over a zoning matter seemed like a serious abuse of government power.

“There’s more starving kids here than people care to realize, and the government’s trying to jack their dollar so they can fly a helicopter around Hippie’s house,” Hippie said.

Art

 THEATER  EXHIBIT “Uninhabited” by Marissa Skinner

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PRIYANKA MODI AND MTSU STUDENTS SHOW ARTWORK AT MURFREE GALLERY

ritish photographer and designer Priyanka Modi has been selected by professors at Middle Tennessee State University to present her photographic series Temporary Memories in a spring 2017 group show at the Murfree Art Gallery in Murfreesboro, on display through May 8. The Murfree Art Gallery is located in the Property Assessor’s office in room 218 on the second floor of the Rutherford County Office Building, at 319 N. Maple St. A reception will be held from 3–4 p.m., Friday, May 5.

Temporary Memories is a series of 10 triptych-like environmental portraits that document the various environments and atmospheres one could experience at a range of eateries in the Murfreesboro-Nashville area while reflecting upon the ideas of memory-making events in daily life.

The photographs are a composition of old photographic materials mixed with digital output that provide an insightful commentary on the medium.

Born in Britain, Priyanka moved to the U.S. in 2010 and has since earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design from East Tennessee State University. Her passion for photography led her “Pretty in Pelian”

by Amy Maggard to return to college and pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in photography from Middle Tennessee State University. She “Gien Living” by Iska Frosh aims to produce designs that are beautiful yet functional and photography that provides commentary on topics of issue.

This show also embraces students from or affiliated with the MTSU Department of Art. This includes Iska Frosh, Chris Banyai, Kara Stallings, Marissa Skinner, Tanner Pancake, Meghan Kreger and Amy Maggard. The variety of their work includes acrylic, encaustic, mixed media, monotype, oils, pastels and wood block.

All Murfree Art Gallery exhibits, receptions, and other related events are open to the public. For more information on the MTSU Department of Art and Murfree Art Gallery, visit mtsu.edu/art or contact eric.snyder@mtsu.edu. For more information about Priyanka Modi, visit priyankamodi.com.

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CENTER FOR THE ARTS BECOMES LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS THIS MONTH

T

he Center for the Arts will present the bloody but beloved Little Shop of Horrors on its main stage through May 21. The doo-wop musical, written

by Howard Ashman and composed by Alan Menken, is based on a B-horror film of the same name. It follows the meek flower shop assistant Seymour Krelborn, who pines for a co-worker, Audrey, and discovers an unusual plant during a total eclipse.

“Not only do we know this musical has a cult following, our director, Renee Robinson, has a great record here,” said the center’s executive director, Patience Long.

In the play, Seymour, played by Center veteran Matthew Hayes Hunter, names his strange plant Audrey II and quickly learns that it feeds on blood to survive.

As Audrey II grows, it begins to attract a great deal of business for the

previously struggling floral shop. Unfortunately for Seymour, he has trouble keeping up with Audrey II’s seemingly insatiable appetite and has to resort to more extreme measures.

Robinson, who has previously directed hits at the center ranging from The Color Purple to It’s a Wonderful Life, said she was excited to add her particular flair to this well-loved show.

“Little Shop of Horrors has been a musical I’ve loved for a while,” she said.

“The contrast of the bounce of the music and the deeper and strange subject matter have been paths I wanted to explore.”

Tickets can be purchased at boroarts. org, by calling (615) 904-2787, or by stopping by the Center’s box office at 110 W. College St. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings and 2 p.m. on Sundays through May 21.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR — MAY 13 MURAL ON THE GREENWAY

Join Cultural Arts Murfreesboro and Murfreesboro Greenway for the Community Paint Day Saturday, May 13, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. The busy day of work on a brand new mural at the Greenway underpass by Dodge’s on Broad Street will see volunteer community artists transferring the design to the wall and getting it ready for the community to come out and paint. The goal is to make this section of the trail brighter, friendlier and a more welcoming environment. Artists interested in volunteering, contact pwilliams@murfreesborotn.gov.

Sports

UPSHAW

REGGIE UPSHAW

MTSU Basketball legend talks Greenway, NBA hopes and Kendrick Lamar before leaving Murfreesboro.

BY GREG CRITTENDEN

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ver the last four years the words “MTSU basketball,” “winning,” and the name “Reggie Upshaw” have been synonymous. Few high school players get the opportunity to play D-1 college basketball. Even fewer are successful at it.

Even fewer than that get the opportunity to become an icon for their program.

Reggie is all of those things. He has become so iconic that, as I prepared to conduct my interview with him, a random passerby exclaimed, “I see your face everywhere I go!”

His iconic status will multiply soon, as he will certainly be immortalized in Murphy Center when his jersey is hoisted into the rafters.

In spite of that status, Reggie has been largely out of the public eye since the Blue Raiders fell to Butler in the 2017 NCAA Tournament. However, I did get the chance to catch up with him after a workout preparing him for whatever his future may hold.

(Sidenote: Reggie looks to be in the best shape of his life!)

It was a good time to get to know the player and the man.

Murfreesboro Pulse: It has been a month since your season ended.

What has that month looked like?

REGGIE UPSHAW: Just in the past month I’ve done a lot of traveling, finding out who my agent is going to be and meeting with different agents and going to play in the all-star game in Phoenix. After that I came back to Murfreesboro and worked out for a week, then I went and played in the Portsmouth Invitational in front of NBA scouts 38 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

and overseas scouts. So, just in the past month I’ve gone from Phoenix to Murfreesboro to Chattanooga to New York for two days and then to Portsmouth. So, its been a lot of traveling.

Did you get a chance to talk to any of the scouts?

I met with seven teams, because after you play your first game that’s when all the scouts evaluate you and see if they want to talk to you afterwards or not. So, after the first game I talked to about seven scouts over the next two days. It was a lot of good feedback. A lot of the teams were saying they were really interested in my abilities to be a stretch four or a swing player that everyone is looking for now.

I’m kind of surprised I haven’t seen you in any mock drafts. How do you feel about that? Do you take offense to that?

As far as rankings and draft boards go, I don’t pay much attention to that. Coming out of high school I wasn’t highly ranked, so to come here and build the legacy I have here and do the things I’ve done, it just goes to show those rankings don’t really mean anything.

Speaking of your legacy, like the woman that walked by who said she sees your face everywhere she goes, what is that like? Is that kind of weird? Did you ever expect that you would become this icon in Murfreesboro?

I didn’t. When I came here I just thought that I would be another regular college athlete.

Come here, get my degree, and go work a job somewhere, or something like that. But, to be recognized when I’m out to eat or at a movie, and to have people go out of their way to come up to me to tell me they’re proud of me and they’re hoping I succeed in whatever I do, that means a lot. I wouldn’t be the person I am without the support of Murfreesboro.

Have you had any time for anything other than basketball over the last month?

Not really. I’m doing two-a-days to prepare for the NBA workouts I have planned for the beginning of May. So, the last two or three weeks have been about getting in the best shape I can be in to put on the best display in Milwaukee.

I did see on Twitter where you got to go to the Special Olympics to see Eli Deml.

Yeah, that was great. He didn’t know I was coming, so when I got there I texted his dad to ask him where he was at. He said he was about to run the 60-meter dash, so I just lined up in his lane at the finish line.

He took off running and about halfway there he looked up and realized it was me, so he wasn’t even worried about the race

anymore. He was just trying to get down there as fast as he could so he could hug me. It was nice that I could surprise him after all the support he’s shown me.

In the four years you’ve been here, you’ve had a little time to kill. What has been your favorite place to pass the time in Murfreesboro?

That’s a tough one. I go to the movies, spend a lot of time in the movie theater. I try to go to Go USA at least twice a year.

I’d like to go more, but I’m so busy with basketball it’s hard. I like to hang out in the mall, but I also like to sleep. Just try to stay off my feet.

What is your favorite place to eat in Murfreesboro?

By far it’s Cheddar’s. There’s just something about their spinach dip [laughs]. I get it every time I go!

So, what is something the people of Murfreesboro wouldn’t expect

from you? Like, maybe a hobby or interest. I asked Darius Johnson this last year and he said he’s an artist, and I never would have guessed that.

I never would have guessed that either . . . I don’t know, I’m not really artistic or anything like that . . . I like to go on long walks. I like to just go walk around on the Greenway. I guess that’s what it would be.

You were a highly-recruited football player in high school, right?

I had a lot of SEC interest. Vanderbilt was my first SEC offer. Pretty much everyone in the SEC other than Alabama and Florida were talking to me at some point.

You know, there have been a few basketball players, like Tony Gonzalez and Antonio Gates, who played basketball in college, but went on to be great tight ends in the NFL. Anything like that in your future?

Well, I’ve thought about it. Since our season was over I’ve talked to four NFL teams. So, I know there’s interest in bringing me in for workouts, and seeing how the big guy from VCU just signed to be a tight end with the Colts it draws my attention. But, for right now, I’m just focused on basketball.

What are five of your favorite songs off your playlist right now?

Man, that’s tough! I really like Kendrick [Lamar]’s new album.

“Humble” is one of the five, and what’s the other one? “Love,” I think is another one on that album. “Selfish” by Future, “Ice Melts” by Drake, and “Passionfruit” is another by Drake I really like.

Do you have any old-school jams on there?

Yeah, I got all the Usher on there. Usher’s from Chattanooga, so I got all the Usher on there. Who else? I got some Jagged Edge on there too.

So, what will you miss the most about Murfreesboro?

Just the community itself. There’s not a lot of places like Murfreesboro where every day someone is going to want to come up to you and talk to you just to ask you how your day was. It definitely doesn’t happen in Chattanooga a lot [Upshaw’s hometown] as far as someone just asking me how my day is going. So, I think the thing I’ll miss a lot is how nice the people are here. I’ll be somewhere else, maybe a different city or country. Wherever it is I’ll have to learn to adjust where I’m at, but I don’t think I’ll ever come across a city like Murfreesboro anywhere else.

SUMMER FITNESS CAMPS

 SPORTS

COMPILED BY ANDREA STOCKARD

MAY 30–JULY 28 MTSU SPORTS CAMP

Blaze Warrior Challenge

Participating in sports camps at MTSU is a great way for children to get involved and learn a variety of sport, leisure and fitness activities while learning important crucial life skills. Boys and girls age 7–13 learn good sportsmanship, the value of regular exercise and working together as a team Tuesday, May 30–Friday, July 28, from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Goals include learning beginner-to-intermediate skills in a variety of sports, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and developing good character.

A nutritious lunch is included and provided by MTSU Dining Services.

Comfortable sports or active wear and athletic or closed-toed shoes are recommended. Campers swim every day (weather permitting), so they should also pack a swimsuit, flip-flops and a towel each day. For more information, call (615) 898-2104 or visit mtsu.edu/camprec/camps.

5K and 10K to raise funds for Blackman’s proposed JROTC building.

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BY DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

lackman High School’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) program will continue its efforts to fund an onsite multi-purpose building by presenting the Blaze Warrior Challenge, a 5K and 10K run, on Saturday, May 13.

Following last year’s Blazefest music festival fundraiser, JROTC Booster Club President Terri Eshleman says she hopes the event will attract community members who wish to support the program’s 230 cadets.

“JROTC isn’t just designed for military training or as an alternative to physical education courses . . . it’s life training,” says Eshleman, whose daughter is a member of the program.

“They learn life lessons like how to budget, how the stock market operates and what’s going on in the country.”

“Col. [Gary] Spry also does a great job of boosting the kids, whether it’s with help applying for colleges and scholarships or building resumes,” she continues.

Eshleman says cadets currently train in “all weather conditions, from snow and rain to freezing and hot weather” and that the proposed building will offer a controlled environment for students to apply their training.

“Cadets need a more comfortable practice building to master what they are learning,” she says.

But before the building comes to fruition, members of the program must reach the estimated $225,000 budget by holding fundraisers such as the upcoming Blaze Warrior Challenge.

In addition to the 5K and 10K run, event organizers are planning a Race and Obstacle 40 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

Course Challenge that incorporates the same equipment cadets use in competitions. To participate in the challenge, teams of eight will brave 12 obstacles, such as tires and a wall and rope climb, as well as finish the 5K. Eshleman says organizers want the community to know that the Blaze Warrior Challenge is family friendly, as there will also be a onemile fun run for kids. Additionally, strollers and leashed pets are welcome.

“It’s a family event, so we don’t want anyone to be discouraged because they see that it’s a 5K and 10K run,” she says.

High school students in the award-winning program currently travel to other counties for rifle and drill competitions, but the proposed building would act as a resource for all JROTC students in Rutherford County.

Once the building is completed, Eshleman says other organizations, such as cheerleaders or the volleyball team, can utilize the space during JROTC off-season.

“A lot of extra curricular programs get shifted around the school because there’s not enough room,” she says. “It’s a much-needed facility.”

Participants are encouraged to sign up prior to the event at runsignup.com or blazewarriorchallenge.com; the one-mile fun run is scheduled to kick off at 7 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, with the 5 and 10K races beginning at 7:30, and the Obstacle Course Challenge kicking off at 8 a.m. For more information, visit the Blackman High School JROTC page on Facebook or email blackmanjrotc@yahoo.com.

MAY 29–JUNE 16 BARFIELD SCHOOL OF DANCE CAMP Sign up for award-winning dance camps at Barfield School of Dance (2298 Barfield Rd.), suitable for novice, intermediate and advanced dancers. Enjoy pool parties, guest teachers and a new adventure each night. Session #1 Day Camp for ages 3–9 runs May 29–June 2; Session #2 Day Camp for ages ages 3–9 runs June 5–9; Session #3 Overnight Camp for ages 8 and above runs June 12–16. For more information, visit barfieldschoolofdance.com.

MAY 28–JULY 16 COACH STOCKSTILL FOOTBALL CAMPS Become a better football player at Rick Stockstill Football Elite Camps, kicking off May 28 at MTSU. Camps are offered for youth (grades 1–8), high school players, big men, kickers and skill positions. For more information on dates and fees, visit coachstockstillcamps.com.

MAY 30–JUNE 2 BOYS TO MEN CAMP Gain hands-on knowledge related to life skills, sports and leisure, positive peer relationships and career choices at Reeves-Rogers Elementary School (1807 Greenland Dr.) from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, May 30–Friday, June 2 for rising fourth- through sixth-graders. Breakfast and lunch included. For more information, contact (615) 893-2313 or greg.lyles@ cityschools.net.

SPORTS

TALK

COLUMN BY “Z-TRAIN”

titanman1984@gmail.com

TITANS TAKE WIDE RECEIVER COREY DAVIS WITH THEIR FIRST 2017 DRAFT PICK THE TRAIN DADDY IS BACK with the pain, daddy, as always bringing sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk to you, the loyal readers of Middle Tennessee. They say April showers bring gay flowers and NHL playoff victories. I truly hope so—both would be a happy thing!

Summer is fast approaching, and while I don’t relish the thought of Tennessee’s wicked humidity, there is a certain beauty to the hills and woods of Tennessee. Get out, people, and enjoy the outdoors! Statistics show that nearly 70 percent of American adults are overweight, a butterball, fat as a hog, chunky lard, bat fastard, big as the backside of a government mule, or hungry as a hippo. Don’t become any of those fat-shaming names; remember the importance of physical activity and eating healthy.

This world is cruel at times. I don’t advise fat shaming people.

That’s wrong, and my purpose here is only relaying the importance of being healthy. I love pizza and Red Bull, both horrible for you. I am 32 years old, and have plans to become healthier. Right now, those are still plans, but hopefully soon they will become action. We all have heard the term “Fat is beautiful.” No, fat is fat! Pee on the protect-everybody’s-feelings police. Let’s just be realistic, being unhealthy is not an attractive quality, it’s a condition that needs diet and exercise. This country loves fast food and processed crap!

LET’S TALK TITANS!

The NFL draft has come and gone and once again Mel Kiper and Todd McShay battled for who can guess better than the other.

Forget Mayweather vs. McGregor, I would pay some real money to watch Kiper vs. McShay beat

Corey Davis

each other senseless.

So how did my precious Tennessee Titans do in the 2017 NFL draft? Well, old man Kiper stated “Overall, a lot of talent here and a nice job in General Manager Jon Robinson’s second draft.” That sounds pretty, but let’s be honest here, this is the Train Daddy’s sports article, so Kiper and McShay can screw off. They know nothing, Jon Snow!

I’m excited for some Game of Thrones, coming soon, July 2017, Hodoooor! I get off track; back to the Titans!

This draft was all about emphasizing the need to help make Marcus Mariota’s life on the field easier. We all know Marcus is a future superstar in this league, but even superstars need help. Unless you’re Tom Brady, then you just poop success and excellence. No need to wipe, because life is too easy when you’re Tom Brady!

The Titans’ first pick, No. 5 overall, is just what Marcus needed. The first receiver off the board, Corey Davis, a young man from

Western Michigan, had been dealing with an ankle injury, missing the combine entirely. The Titans desperately needed a ball catcher, and they scooped up the most pro-ready receiver in the draft. Not the best player on the board by any means, but needs outweighed skill here. Jon Robinson is smarter than I am; I hope he is, at least.

I do have to say that passing on “Jamal Adams, safety, LSU” was hard to do. I have no doubt that Corey Davis will have back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons and will sell many No. 84 jerseys, but Jamal Adams will be a household name in the NFL soon. I welcome Corey Davis and mourn the Titans leaving Jamal Adams on the board.

The Titans, an already talented team, had a real chance here with two first-round picks, thanks to Jeff Fisher and the Rams’ dumb trade last season. There was a real chance to be the dominant force in the AFC South for years to come.

So why pick Adoree Jackson with the No. 18 overall pick? WHY!?!

The cornerback out of USC is as explosive as any player in the nation with the ball in his hands, but he will struggle due to his small stature. I was dumbfounded. I was relishing the idea of O.J. Howard, the tight end out of Alabama, becoming a Titan. The Bucs also relished the idea, taking O.J. with the very next pick. Jameis Winston and Howard will be a serious

threat. Imagine Marcus having that kind of security blanket to throw to when under duress.

I don’t have much good to say about this pick. Jackson is at best a mediocre cornerback. He is undersized in a league full of giant receivers. It’s a big price for a firstround gamble. I will say, while I hate the pick, I also love it. Hear me out! The Titans may have brought Jackson in for no more than the action with the ball. The 5′ 11″ cornerback out of USC also saw time as a receiver, kick/punt returner and running back. Jackson is seriously as fast as The Flash. If he struggles in coverage, he has a safeguard; just find a way to give him the ball.

He will be an ESPN highlight reel returning kicks and punts. It’s up to the coaches to work him into a few offensive scenarios. Put ball in Jackson’s hand, big plays happen.

At USC Jackson scored touchdowns no matter what position he was playing. Jackson has the potential to be a fan favorite on the field if the Titans can manage to get him the ball often. I just believe the Titans passed on some special talents for a cornerback gamble!

Like I said, making Mariota’s life simpler was a must, and with the next two picks in the draft the Titans added another receiver and a tight end. After a little wheeling and dealing with the Patriots, the Titans took Taywan Taylor, a receiver out of Western Kentucky. Taylor has the talent to be the big play, speed option while Corey Davis would be Mariota’s volume player. Davis and Taylor will join a talented Rishard Mathews and the not-so-productive yet talented Tajae needs help Sharpe.

The Titans may have passed on O.J. Howard, but selected with the No. 100 overall pick Jonnu Smith out of FIU, who can not only can catch the ball but is also very good at smashing defenders in the face.

Titans Coach Murlarkey, a former NFL tight end himself, had nothing but praise for Smith, and I am sure he has big plans for the new tight end. Not only does Jonnu Smith have Mularkey to learn from, but also current tight end Delanie Walker, one of the best in the league.

Look forward to the 2017 NFL season, because the Tennessee Titans are young, poised and set to take control over the AFC South. The team was progressing enough that they had the luxury to gamble in this

draft and still remain relevant this upcoming season. I hope the new pieces to the puzzle end up creating a masterpiece for years to come.

And let’s go, Preds! Looking tough as a No. 8 seed, Stanley Cup, baby! The city of Nashville is getting pumped up on hockey!

Smashville is definitely a hockey town, with some of the loudest,

most dedicated fans in the league.

And that’s special, being a hockey town in the South. I love Tennessee, I love all things Tennessee sports. Enjoy the summer, everyone.

Remember, live your life by the 5 F’s: Faith, Family, Football, Food and Friends. Thanks to all my loyal readers, I do it for you! Train’s out the station. Choo-choo!

Opinion Celebrating Gen. Forrest, and Playing Drunken Monopoly, Oh, the People of Tennessee The

STOCKARD REPORT

BY SAM STOCKARD

SOMETIMES STATE REP. MIKE SPARKS just doesn’t know when to quit.

The Smyrna Republican recently caught the ire of fellow House members at the State Capitol when they found out he slipped a resolution through the body recognizing the writings of a Nathan Bedford Forrest apologist. The irritation wasn’t confined to members of the Black Caucus, who said Sparks betrayed their trust and sneaked the measure through on the House’s consent calendar, which is supposed to be used only for non-controversial and non-substantive items. Several other legislators of lighter hue were peeved as well.

It all started when Sparks decided to sponsor a separate resolution this session of the General Assembly recognizing the rich history of Tennessee, including the accomplishments of Sampson Keeble, of Smyrna, who became the first black person elected to the Legislature after the Civil War during Reconstruction, and the purported redemption of Forrest, the Confederate general who confounded Union generals and became a Southern hero but who also traded slaves, led the massacre at Fort Pillow and was generally a pretty rough character before supposedly finding God and making amends with black folks toward the end of his life.

Sparks tried to the get the Black Caucus to support the resolution, but they wouldn’t go for it. And even when he tried to amend the resolution to honor only Keeble, a House committee sent it to what’s called “summer study,” the resting place for dead legislation.

Rep. Johnny Shaw, a black Democratic legislator from Bolivar, was “highly insulted” by Sparks placing Keeble and Forrest in the same resolution in the beginning. And Rep. Bob Ramsey, a white Republican legislator from Maryville, explained to Sparks the measure had a “shadow” on it because of its connection to Forrest and couldn’t move forward.

Instead of accepting defeat, Sparks pieced together a new resolution honoring a

44 * MAY 2017 * BOROPULSE.COM

Lake Charles, La., pastor named Shane Kastler, who wrote a biography, Nathan Bedford Forrest’s Redemption.

Redemption It pulls a large chunk from the initial resolution about the bad side of Forrest, including his election as first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, but then says he became a Christian later in life, advocated for black civil rights, disavowed the KKK and had a large number of black people attend his funeral.

For those who don’t know how the House works, the body will have a long list of memorializing and recognition resolutions on a consent calendar, which it approves at the start of its sessions each week. Members will look over the list and if nothing sticks out, they’ll vote for it. They can request that items be pulled for consideration on the regular calendar. But because nobody recognized Kastler’s name, they let it slide on through with a unanimous vote April 13.

Not until somebody tipped off a news reporter did anybody take note. With the entire Black Caucus pissed off and the rest of the House looking like fools, Sparks still can’t understand why he’s so misunderstood.

“What other leader in the state of Tennessee had 3,000 African Americans attend his funeral?” Sparks said, referring to reports on Forrest’s death. “So he had to have a story of redemption. I’m not trying to offend anybody. It’s just honoring the author who told the story of Nathan Bedford Forrest, his religious conversion and becoming a Christian and advocating for African Americans.”

He’s just trying to make sure nobody forgets history or tries to whitewash it.

As if they could.

Forrest and Keeble both have busts in the State Capitol, and state legislators walk past them every day they go into the House chamber. The main difference between the two, of course, is that Forrest, one of the biggest slave traders in Memphis before the war, could have owned or sold Keeble at some point. While that’s not likely, he certainly made a lot of money dealing in human flesh. But hey, a man’s got to make a living somehow, right? And it was 150-plus years ago, which must make it right.

It must be noted that the legislators from Memphis already have to deal with a statue of the Civil War general there, and while

they’re driving to Nashville each week they go past the signs for Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, no doubt reminding them of Tennessee’s heritage.

So they have to look at Forrest in Memphis, along I-40 and then in the State Capitol. And if they were to visit MTSU, they’d see his name on Forrest Hall, the ROTC building. (Incidentally, the brouhaha over renaming that building rests with the State Historical Commission and remains unresolved after an MTSU panel recommended a name change in 2016.)

It’s little wonder Black Caucus members took Sparks to task. They asked him to drop the deal on Forrest and Keeble, and instead of taking their advice, he sneaked it through and they unwittingly voted for it. That’s enough to make anyone mad.

They’ll never accept the story of Forrest’s redemption, which they don’t believe, and they’re sick of having it shoved down their throats. The sooner people take a look at it from that perspective the better off we’ll all be.

MORE LEGISLATIVE CRAP

A House education committee recently killed a piece of legislation allowing students to pay in-state tuition to go to state colleges and universities if they had come to Tennessee illegally as minors, along with their parents. These are young people who grew up in Tennessee schools, graduating from high schools, many of them earning salutatorian and valedictorian honors.

Unfortunately, they don’t have blond hair and blue eyes. They’re Hispanic, which in some quarters is a strike against them. And with President Donald Trump in office, the failure to hold legal papers could mean they’re out. Yet these young people, most of whom have lived in Tennessee for 15 to 20 years and done nothing wrong except be brought here illegally by their parents, are allowed to enroll in the state’s colleges and universities but only by paying out-of-state tuition. That more or less means they can’t enroll unless they have a rich uncle who can send them $20,000–$40,000 a year, because out-of-state costs are double to triple that of in-state.

Anyway, one of our own, state Rep. Dawn White, helped nail the coffin shut on these kids when she voted against the legislation to let them pay in-state tuition.

In making her passionate plea to kill their hopes, the Murfreesboro Republican said Tennessee would become a magnet for illegal immigrant students from other states and Rutherford County, especially, would

be damaged because it would have to raise property taxes to build more schools.

News flash: Rutherford County is building about a school a year already and has been for the last two decades. Without taking this matter into consideration, experts predict Rutherford’s population will hit 450,000 in 15 to 20 years.

Who is really to blame, though, for this explosion in illegal immigration? The answer is Americans. We want cheap labor and low prices. We all invited these people here so we could save a few pennies at the local big-box bakery, and now we want to belittle and berate them, pretending they’re no better than the slaves we beat over the head in 1850 for trying to run to freedom.

Giving these young people in-state tuition won’t cost the state a dime. Find a way for them to earn citizenship and let them go to school. They could probably teach our under-achieving wasteoids a thing or two.

SPEAKING OF GETTING WASTED

A Murfreesboro man was recently charged with aggravated domestic assault for allegedly beating and stabbing his wife in a fight stemming from an alcohol-laced Monopoly game. A word of advice: Never drink while playing Monopoly or cards.

When I was a kid, my favorite first cousin would sing and shout to the treetops when he was beating me at Monopoly. I sucked it up and took it. But when I was beating him, what did he do? Turned over the board and knocked all the pieces out of place. Oh well, I never really liked playing Monopoly anyway.

When I got older and married, sometimes my wife and I would play Spades and other card games, usually during get-togethers with her family. And I couldn’t stand it when she would beat me. I finally realized it was because she could remember every card that had been played and somehow could figure out what cards everyone else had by how they played their hand. I was usually drinking beer—but not whiskey, which is a nono—and didn’t pay close enough attention.

But I still hated losing, especially since I couldn’t control the hand I was dealt. Yet, in all of that time of getting my hat handed to me by my wife, I never hit or stabbed her.

Probably because no knives were handy. In fact, I was probably better off with her winning, because as long as she’s winning she’s happy, and a happy wife makes a happy life.

Sam Stockard can be reached at sstockard44@gmail.com

In No Way Does Kim Jong-un Want War With the U.S.

T

he mainstream media don’t seem to be able to wrap their minds around strategic missile strikes. They assumed the U.S. was going to war with either Syria or Russia, or both, because Trump approved missile strikes in response to a chemical attack.

They’re making the same mistake regarding North Korea.

Surgical strikes have a rich history in American warfare. Ronald Reagan bombed Libya after our intelligence showed Muammar Gaddafi was behind the bombing of a discotheque in Germany frequented by U.S. soldiers. Clinton bombed Kosovo. George H.W. Bush attacked Saddam Hussein’s forces in Kuwait and drove them back to Baghdad.

Neither incident resulted in our invading the country and taking it over. Yes, years later, Bush’s son would see fit to run Saddam from power, but the point is military use of force VIEWS OF A doesn’t have to result in regime change.

I think it’s inevitable that shots will be COLUMN BY fired in North Korea. We will either shoot PHIL VALENTINE down NoKo missiles or we will determine philvalentine.com where these missiles are coming from and take them out before they’re launched. With all the blustering going on with Kim Jong-un, it’s probably the best course of action.

Too many people don’t understand Kim’s motivations, either. This guy literally inherited a country. It’s a dump of a country, but a country nonetheless. People are starving. The economy is in a shambles. Eventually internal pressures reach a point where a coup is inevitable. How does one stave off a coup? By fabricating a common enemy. It’s the oldest trick in the dictator playbook.

Kim says they have to develop nukes to keep the United States from invading. The U.S. has no interest in invading North Korea. Heck, we’d have to knock half of it down just to make it inhabitable. We haven’t had an interest in invading North Korea since the Korean War. Kim knows this, but he also knows the best way to get his countrymen’s attention off their growling stomachs is to create a boogeyman.

If you understand this, you understand that there’s no way this guy escalates a strike by the U.S. Quite the contrary. He uses any strike against his country to prove his point to his own people that an invasion is imminent. He knows that if he attacks South Korea or U.S. ships he leaves us no choice but to depose him. He also understands he’s got the best gig in the world.

He just has to rattle his saber loud enough to rally the North Korean people behind him.

With all that in mind, Trump can take out any perceived threat and not have to worry about escalation.

Here’s something else to think about—and don’t misinterpret this as saying this is being done on purpose: Trump’s approval ratings are rising. Just as, I’m sure, Kim’s approval ratings are rising in North Korea; public opinion tends to rally around a country’s leader in time of military conflict. Trump is doing what he thinks he needs to do to keep us safe.

And he’s right. Allowing NoKo to develop precision-strike missiles does not serve the best interest of the United States.

But there’s a side benefit to keeping us safe. Military strikes will almost certainly bolster Trump’s popularity. He can use that new capital to get some things done in Congress that have been more difficult with his approval ratings below 50 percent. That may sound cynical, but it’s the political reality.

Trump can kill two birds with one stone. Make America safe again and make America great again in one fell swoop.

CONSERVATIVE

“Kim says they have to develop nukes to keep the United States from invading.

The U.S. has no interest in invading North Korea. Heck, we’d have to knock half of it down just to make it inhabitable.”

Phil Valentine is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host with Westwood One. For more of his commentary and articles, visit philvalentine.com.

Opinion

Live Exceptionally...Well!

THE MONEY PULSE

BY BERNARD JAMES

E More Homebuyer Tips

L

ast month we discussed the planning process to purchase a home.

If it is your goal to own a home at any point in your life, start planning now!

It is never too soon to begin the planning process.Here’s one more helpful planning tip: Save beyond your rent at the same time you pay your rent.

For example: If your rent is $1,200 per month, pay your rent, then take $200–300 more and put it in the savings account. Do not touch that savings! This is money that you save separately from your emergency savings account. Have an account completely dedicated to this savings. Put as much money aside above your rent as you can, make some sacrifices and stretch yourself. The idea is to condition your mind for a house payment; the perk is that you save some money while you are doing it. With home prices (and rent prices) going up in the area at a seemingly record pace, this strategy will help you be prepared for a changing market.

Now, you have decided it is time. The landlord said he is raising rent and you are not going to renew your lease. Don’t be scared. You have prepared for this, and you are going to have to have to have a place to live anyway. What next?

Talk to or find your professionals Start relationships with a knowledgeable real estate agent, mortgage loan officer and insurance agent. Knowledgeable is emphasized for a reason. The housing market in Middle Tennessee is extremely competitive

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right now. Having an agent who knows the market and how to negotiate in this market is key. The mortgage industry is a heavily regulated, constantly changing industry.

Knowledge is a huge key in minimizing loan issues before closing.

Be ready If you have spoken to any real estate agents lately, most of them will tell you about the lack of houses on the market. So when you find the home you really like, be ready to roll! Hesitation has recently cost a lot of potential buyers. The market is putting the pressure on everyone involved to move quickly because there could be several offers on the property.

Go over the loan numbers When you get pre-qualified by your loan officer, set up a time to meet with them and go over the numbers, either in person or on the phone, there are certain things to make sure you are comfortable with.

Knowing what your potential payment and closing costs would be will help you make a quick and confident offer. And that can be the difference that results in you getting the house!

Bernard James, a Community Reinvestment Loan Officer with Guaranty Trust Company in Murfreesboro, aims to help area families and individuals achieve the financial goals that they have set.

Contact him at (615) 631-2877 or bernard.james@guarantytrust.com.

BY JENNIFER DURAND

Settling, or Setting the Standard?

very day we are faced with choices to make. From the simplest of tasks to the daunting and laborious. Decisions that can bring a smile, cause a frown or produce tears. Each one, however great or small, is a stepping stone that shapes our character and supports us in making the next decision.

After facing multiple disappointments it’s easy to feel defeated or let down. It can become more difficult to be patient, to trust or even to hope. If you are like most, you will carry on.

The little holes and gaps of life get filled in by whatever we allow. Thus the question: Are you settling, or setting the standard?

While attending a continuing education event that included rigorous physical workouts, our instructor encouraged and pushed us beyond what we thought we were capable of doing. You could feel the angst in the air of those who moaned out loud thinking, “Lord, I can’t do that.” As the instructor emphatically challenged the crowd to keep going, urging “You can do it, you’re almost there,” “You’ve come this far, don’t quit” and “You can go beyond what you think you can—DO IT,” you could feel the energy shift with the increased momentum. By the time we were done, there was no denying the electricity in the room. The bar had been raised. He was setting a higher standard, and many, to their own surprise, reached that standard or at least got a lot closer to it than they thought they would. His was the voice of knowing. He had proved people could go beyond their own self-perceived limits.

“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” — Coach John Wooden Another example of setting the standard is when an owner of a company had to choose between consoling an employee or empowering them after they felt intimidated by a client’s inappropriate behavior. Fellow employees were already quick to say “Oh, you poor thing, how awful for you,” thus making the situation more daunting. The employer determined the employee had done all the right things to diffuse the situation.

The employer could tell the employee still felt “rattled” and had a choice to make. Should they be consoling or empowering? This would make the difference in enabling that employee to remain at work and finish their shift, or leave feeling deflated. The employer chose to remind that worker that they were a

professional, dedicated to their craft, and that they’d handled the client appropriately.

Additionally, they were urged to immediately let go of any negative thoughts. This incident was a misguided delusion on the client’s part, and in no way could affect the innocence and purity of the employee. The employee’s spirit was lifted. Life and work could keep going—better than ever—because this person was reminded of their true character.

Sometimes it’s way to easy to just agree with someone feeling defeated or deflated.

Would you want to settle for that incomplete feeling, or raise your own standard of thinking to one that would empower you and push you forward? If it’s the latter, then you can be like the instructor or the employer who press beyond the limitations that are before them.

It helps to know who you are. If you don’t know who you are or what you stand for, you can start by writing down the top five things that you value. The things you think about the most, do the most or spend the most time working on. If you realize you are spending time on things that are not important to you, you have some changes to make.

Once you get your values nailed down, then you channel your energy and focus in a clear direction. It becomes easier to move forward within this standard and becomes more difficult to shake up or break down.

You are proving the path one step at a time.

Also, surround yourself with people who challenge you to be the best version of yourself. This will strengthen your resolve and your character. It is our duty and privilege to dig deeper, use wisdom and become the people we were meant to be. And I believe that is not a substandard version, but the highest version that becomes the standard.

“Sometimes all that stands between you and the ride of a lifetime is simply getting in the saddle and seeing what you’re made of.”

Jennifer Durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook Day Spa & Gift Shoppe; she is a certified QiGong and Breathe Empowerment instructor, a skin care and makeup specialist, an InterPlay leader and is licensed in massage therapy. Let her help you find your personal “ahh . . .” factor by visiting nurturenook. com or by calling (615) 896-7110.