Sept 2016 Murfreesboro Pulse by The Murfreesboro Pulse

Middle Tennesseeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Source for Art, Entertainment and Culture News

SEPT. 2016 / VOL. 11, ISSUE 9 / FREE

EAT&

DRINK

LOCAL Murfreesboro has over 100 unique, local restaurants for your dining pleasure.

THIS MONTH /// THE JAMBOURINE /// PILGRIMAGE FEST /// GREENWAY ART FEST /// LOCAL HONEY /// AND MORE!

Contents

Word from the Editor

MURFREESBORO PULSE | SEPTEMBER 2016

ON THE COVER (clockwise from top left): Naan from Tandoor Indian Cuisine; sashimi from Fin Fusion; maple bacon doughnut from The Artful Donut; grape leaves from Gyro Tabouli; fish tacos from Mexiven; Knockout Shrimp from Nobody’s; pizza from Station Grill

14 WIN

Features

Hunter Marlowe wins MTSU business plan competition.

Fifty-year old band makes Sept. 7 stop in Nashville.

NRBQ

AROUND THE GLOBE

Cannonsburgh hosts ’Boro International Festival, Sept 10.

Event raises funds for Power of Pink.

Area beekeepers enjoy educating others about sweet nectar of the bees.

at over 100 unique Murfreesboro restaurants.

MTSU alum Mikki Rose lands job as animator.

WINE AROUND THE SQUARE

HONEY!

In Every Issue

MUSIC NOTES

Events THIS MONTH

Hummingbirds; Tractor Pull; Yoga at the Avenue and more!

Sounds LOCAL CONCERTS

Kennedy Jones; The Hardin Draw; Mary Gauthier and more! ALBUM REVIEWS

Harper and the Bears; Island Wren

Pilgrimage Fest; Johnaroo; WMOT; Sound Breaking

Living

City cooking up new food truck ordinance.

Reviews War Dogs; Sausage Party

MADE LOCAL

LIVING ROOM CINEMA

Benefits of honey SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS

60 Minute Escape

Never to See the Light of Day

Food

EVENTS

FOOD NEWS

’BORO BUSINESS BUZZ

THE STOCKARD REPORT

NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM

News

Opinion

Inside Rutherford Co. Dept. of Probation and Recovery Services MURFREESBORO TRIBUNE

Art

Greenway Art Fest; Steve McCurry

Local couple to sell home, angers every real estate agent except one.

Lawsuit filed after high-speed chase fatality.

Sports MTSU SPORTS

Blue Raiders kick off season Sept 3. SPORTS TALK

Titans have great running back combo in Murray and Henry.

VISIT US AT BOROPULSE.COM FOR MORE!

Publisher/ Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo

Art Director: Sarah Mayo Copy Editor: Steve Morley

Advertising: Jeff Brown Don Clark Leslie Russell Yost

Contributors: Dylan Skye Aycock, Alex Belew, Sam Clemens, John Connor Coulston, Greg Crittenden, Michael LaMure, Bryce Harmon, Joseph Kathmann, Zach Maxfield, Justin Reed, Elizabeth Scott Sawyer, Edwina Shannon, Jay Spight, Justin Stokes, Andrea Stockard, Sam Stockard, Norbert Thiemann

BLUE RAIDER TO BLUE SKY

Glenn Merchant; Doin Hair; Stones River Mall playground

MOVIES

GARDENING

Growing herbs

EAT & DRINK LOCAL

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

ON THE COVER: PHOTOS BY CHRISTY SIMMONS AND SARAH MAYO

Miller’s Grocery

JAMBORINE

Tickets

Copyright © 2016, 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

HELLO PULSE READERS: Research for the piece in last month’s edition of the Pulse on the Ascent climbing facility led to some soreness in the arms. That’s OK. That was a strength-building, good type of soreness. Research for the piece on beekeeping in the area in this month’s edition also led to some arm soreness after three of those little honey bees stung me on the left wrist. I had to remind myself of all of the delicious honey I have consumed in my life during those two days of trying to overlook a feverish, swollen left arm. The bees have gotten their revenge! So, there is some risk involved in keeping bees, but also a sweet reward. Read more about honey and beekeeping in this edition. Continuing the “eating local” theme, this edition of the Murfreesboro Pulse contains a listing of local restaurants of various types. Never let anyone say to you “there’s only chain restaurants in Murfreesboro” or “I’m new to town and don’t know where the cool, unique places are.” Hand them that list! This will be an ongoing directory of local eateries on boropulse.com, so we can adjust as needed. I trust the loyal readers of the Pulse will help with that endeavor. Which establishments do you recommend? I have avoided most anything involving Trump and Hillary this past month. That went pretty well. Stay informed, but the next time you have the option of engaging in some political debate with little chance of real education or resolution, you may be better off spending your time and energy on something that brings a little more joy into your life or benefit to your family or business. As usual, Murfreesboro will host a ton of events this month. The Greenway Art Fest is coming up with lots of talented creators, Johnaroo at the Avenue gives young rock musicians a chance to take the stage, Wine Around the Square benefits the local Power of Pink charity, take a trip around the globe right at Cannonsburgh at the ’Boro International Festival, attend a magic show at Stones River Mall, Oktoberfest at Oaklands, the big benefit concert for the Howard’s Hope program, run a 5K—the community offers all sorts of activities. Everybody Drum Some will lead another group rhythm session on the evening of Sept. 22 at the Square. Make American drum again! MTSU alum Hunter Marlowe has invented a little jangly for your guitar hole. Great concept. Read all about it in the following pages. There may be some hatred, violence, negativity, funny smells and stuff that doesn’t work correctly out there in the world, but if you seek the love, peace, creativity, community, and laughter, you will find it! Peace, BRACKEN MAYO Publisher/Editor in Chief BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 3

Events COMPILED BY

ANDREA STOCKARD

Send event information to murfreesboropulse@yahoo.com

SEPT. 2 MAIN STREET’S FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE CONCERT SERIES The O’Donnells will perform at the Murfreesboro Public Square from 6:30–9:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 2. Bring your lawn chair; admission is free. For more information, call (615) 895-1887 or visit downtownmurfreesboro.com.

SEPT. 2 MOVIES IN THE PARK Watch Star Wars: The Force Awakens at the Rotary Soccer Park (300 Soccer Way, Smyrna) on Friday, Sept. 2, with gates opening at 5:30 p.m. and the movie at dusk (approx. 7:30 p.m.). Enjoy food vendors, inflatables and train rides. Admission is $1 per person. For more information, call (615) 459-9773.

SEPT. 5 LABOR DAY POOL PARTY Enjoy live music, relax by the pool and play games at Sports*Com’s outdoor pool (2310 Memorial Blvd.) for their last day of the season offering fun, food and prizes from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 5. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for youth and seniors. For more information, contact (615) 895-5040 or kgoss@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 9 9/11 REMEMBRANCE Join the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on the west side of the Rutherford County Courthouse (Murfreesboro Public Square) from 9–10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 9, presented by the Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department and Murfreesboro Police Department, and emceed by Bart Walker of WGNS.

SEPT. 9 AND 10 PIONEER DAYS ANTIQUE TRACTOR PULL Enjoy crafts, tractors, exhibits and demonstrations at the Eagleville Tractor Show Grounds (747 Chapel Hill Pk., Eagleville) beginning at 7 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 9, and Saturday, Sept. 10. Festivities include a skillet throw, slow tractor race, 1920s steam engine sawmill, parade of power, pedal tractor pulls for kids, craft vendors and more. Admission is $7 for adults; 12 and under are free with a paid adult. For more information, call (615) 708-7086 or visit eaglevilletvppa.com.

SEPT. 10 LANTERN TOUR OF STONES RIVER NATIONAL CEMETERY 4 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

Spend an hour walking through the Stones River National Cemetery by lantern light while hearing the stories of soldiers and civilians relating the terrible cost of the Civil War at the Stones River National Battlefield (1563 N. Thompson Ln.) beginning at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. For reservations, call (615) 893-9501.

SEPT. 10 SMYRNA ROTARY WINGS OF FREEDOM FISH FRY Come out for the 14th Annual Wings of Freedom Fish Fry sponsored by Rotary Club of Smyrna at the Smyrna-Rutherford County Airport Authority and Corporate Flight Management (278 Doug Warpoole Rd., Smyrna) honoring veterans of Operation Desert Storm with fish, food and drinks, airplanes, classic cars, live music, and family fun. Tickets are $40 and the event begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. For more Information, call (615) 459-2651 or visit wofsmyrna.com.

SEPT. 10–11 WHITE OAK CRAFT FAIR More than 75 artisans offering original textiles, jewelry, woodcarving, metalwork, pottery, photography, chairs, baskets, ironwork, stained glass and more will participate in the 27th Annual White Oak Craft Fair at the Arts Center of Cannon County (1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury) from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. on Sept. 10 and 11. For more information, call (615) 563-ARTS (2787) or visit artscenterofcc.com.

SEPT. 10 AND 20 FOL BOOK SALE Friends of Linebaugh Library will hold a book sale in the garage below the library (105 W. Vine St.) for Linebaugh members on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and a book sale open to the public on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 9 a.m–12 noon.

SEPT. 10 ’BORO INTERNATIONAL FEST Have a blast at ’Boro Fest at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. to pay tribute to the cultural diversity in Murfreesboro. For more information, visit cityschools.net.

THROUGH SEPT. 11 DINOSAURS: LAND OF FIRE AND ICE EXHIBIT Visit prehistoric times with face-to-face

THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER

Second Harvest Take Action Against Hunger Every September marks Hunger Action Month, a national campaign promoted by Feeding America, a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks. Some who have never experienced poverty remain unaware of the hunger issues in their own neighborhood, according to Taylor Loyal, Rutherford County Development Manager with Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee—the food bank responsible for supplying meals to those who need it in Nashville, Murfreesboro and surrounding areas. “Even in a community that’s as prosperous as Rutherford County,” Loyal says. “37,000 in Rutherford County are considered ‘food insecure.’ The majority of people we help have just lost a job, just got diagnosed with cancer, just got divorced, had a life event or two or three.” Some area businesses joining the Second Harvest cause this month: • The Curious Kitchen will donate $1 for every BLT sold in September • The Block will donate $1 for every burger sold in September • The Alley on Main will donate $1 for every meatball pasta or Alley Sammie sold in September • The Artful Doughnut will donate $1.50 for every dozen doughnuts sold in September • Mayday Brewery will donate proceeds from Going ComMango on Thursday, Sept. 15. • Ford of Murfreesboro will donate $5 for every test drive taken in September For more information on getting involved in the Second Harvest mission, contact Loyal at taylor.loyal@secondharvestmidtn.org or (615) 585-6390; if you or someone you know could use some assistance, learn more at secondharvestmidtn.org. interactions with dinosaurs at the Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St.) as you put on an insect costume, buzz around a swampy bog, coast down an icy slide and dig for fossils. The exhibit features an immersive learning environment divided into three sections: two dinosaur habitats (warm and cold environments) and a field research station. The dinosaur environments include the flora and fauna believed to have been present 65–70 million years ago, during the end of the Cretaceous Period, and represent areas that are now part of North America. For more information, visit explorethedc.org.

SEPT. 12 GAME DAY TAILGATING PARTY Greenhouse Ministries will host a Game Day Tailgating Party on Monday, Sept. 12, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. The event, held at 315 S. Academy St., will create more awareness for the Greenhouse Ministries mission while also raising funds for its new building. There will be music, corn

hole and Slick Pig-catered barbecue. It is an adults-only event and attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite team’s football jersey. For more information, contact Rachel Young at rachel.young@ greenhousemin.org.

SEPT. 13 RUTHERFORD CABLE KEYNOTE SPEAKER LOUIS UPKINS JR. Louis Upkins Jr. helps clients find their purpose and bring their ideas to life in his “Treat Me Like a Customer” speech, presented at the Rutherford Cable monthly breakfast meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 13, from 7:15–9 a.m. at Stones River Country Club (1830 NW Broad St.). This meeting launches the group’s membership drive. All are welcome; admission is $5 and includes breakfast. To register or for more information, visit rutherfordcable.org.

SEPT. 3

Hummingbirds Exhibit Barfield Crescent Park is home to hundreds of hummingbirds that, each fall, prepare to embark on an annual journey. Join in celebrating these incredible creatures as Cyndi Routledge of Southeastern Avian Research (SEAR) shares her knowledge and experience at the Wilderness Station (301 Volunteer Rd.) from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, with children’s activities, hummingbird merchandise and more. For more information, contact (615) 217-3017 or outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov.

outdoor pool (2310 Memorial Blvd.) from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. before springing a leak. Some will sink, and others will float. Teams consist of 1–4 people who must be in the boat at all times. All entries must be submitted by Sept. 16 at 8 a.m.; this event is for ages 13 and up. For more information, contact (615) 895-5040 or kgoss@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 13 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce presents Business After Hours at 3343 Memorial (3343 Memorial Blvd.), from 5–7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 13. Business After Hours is an informal, social networking event designed to connect business professionals from across Rutherford County. For more information, visit rutherfordchamber.org.

SEPT. 17 IGNITE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2016

SEPT. 13 EVENING ON MAPLE Main Street Murfreesboro will host its annual membership event at the new Gavel Grill & Speakeasy (109 N. Maple St.) from 5–7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13. Donations to Main Street will be accepted at the door. Guests may make dinner reservations with The Gavel to follow the Main Street reception. For more information, visit downtown murfreesboro.com.

SEPT. 14 CONSTITUTION DAY OBSERVED AT MTSU American Civil Rights leader, Diane Nash, will speak at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 14, at the MTSU Tucker Theater. Following that, Tracy Nelson will discuss songwriting in the context of free speech and social activism at the MTSU McWherter Learning Resource Center Rm. 221 on the MTSU campus, at 4:30 p.m. Nelson talks about her long and unique career with performers such as Willie Nelson and will give a live performance.

SEPT. 15 THE CONNECTION, BUSINESS NETWORKING AT MAYDAY The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming will be held from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 15, at Mayday Brewery, 521 Old Salem Rd. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, no-obligation event, where they can meet other small-business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. An open roundtable discussion will encourage participation from those in attendance, asking them to articulate their vision for their business and calling for examples of some of the business challenges and solutions they are experiencing. The series will continue the third Thursday of each month.

SEPT. 15 YOGA IN THE PARK Join The Avenue Murfreesboro (2615 Medical Center Pkwy.) for free yoga in Central Park at 7 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 15. Bring a light-colored mat, towel and water. Space is limited and an RSVP is required. To

SEPT. 17

1st Annual Flying Fish Benefit Concert

Howard’s Hope invites the community to Murfreesboro Aviation (1936 Memorial Blvd.) on Saturday, Sept. 17, for a benefit concert supporting their Flying Fish program in providing the opportunity for disadvantaged children in Middle Tennessee learning how to swim. Enjoy live music by Rockslide and Mosaic Rhythm, food and beverages, door prizes and a silent auction with items ranging from airline tickets to sports memorabilia. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (615) 663-0313 or visit howardshope.org. register, visit theavenuemurfreesboro.com/ news-events or for more information visit facebook.com/avenuemurfreesboro.

4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16. For more information, call (615) 217-3017 or visit outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 16

COFFEE WITH THE VETERANS

3RD FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT AT CANNONSBURGH

Join Operation Adopt a Hero at Cultivate Coworking (107 W. Lytle St.) from 7:30–9 a.m. on the third Friday of each month for Coffee with the Veterans, an informal, social networking event designed to foster friendships between local veterans and their community. Enjoy coffee, pastries and the chance to meet and mingle with our service members and their families. For more information, call (615) 893-6565.

SEPT. 16 ROLL IT Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) will host a foam rolling class at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 16, teaching techniques to help loosen tight muscles and improve blood flow. Space is limited and preregistration is required. Cost is $20 (price includes class and foam rollers) and is for ages 18 and up. For more information, contact (615) 8955040 or adavidson@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 16 ADULT EVENING KAYAK FLOAT Float down the cool, meandering Stones River, and forget about the hustle and bustle of city life as you enjoy the beauty of nature. Space is limited, and reservations are required. Admission is $15. All equipment and instruction are provided; the trip takes off at

Come out for a live performance by country/ bluegrass musician Zach Kerber at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) from 7–9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16. Bring your lawn chairs or blanket. Admission is free. For more information, call (615) 890-0355.

SEPT. 17 CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA Join in the fun with your own cardboard boat, or spend the day watching captains and their crews race across the Sports*Com

The Ignite Music Festival will feature performers Leander, The Persuaded, Change Musik, Quan Cole, Mary Howell Band, Root Road, Embassy and more, and include a Kids Zone and barbecue cookoff. The event will be at The Arts Center of Cannon County (1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury) from 1–8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17. For more information, contact (615) 8010568 or jefﬁgnitemusic@gmail.com, or visit ignitemissionsandministry.com.

SEPT. 17 INAUGURAL BACK TO SCHOOL DASH 5K/10K Register for the first-ever City Schools Foundation Back to School 5K/10K Dash to support of the Murfreesboro City School system in the areas of science, math and academic competition and excellence among students. This timed race starts at Overall Creek Elementary (429 Otter Tr.) at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17. For more information, visit cityschoolsfoundation.com.

SEPT. 17 GREENWAY ART FESTIVAL Enjoy works by talented artists along the Greenway trail at Old Fort Park (916 Golf Ln.) from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Browse through booths of original artwork in a family-friendly park setting featuring oils, acrylics, watercolors, pottery, sculpture, and other original artwork while enjoying music, food vendors and kids’ art activities. For more information, contact (615) 893-2141 or mtate@murfreesborotn.gov, or visit murfreesborotn.gov. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 

SEPT. 17

4th Annual Rutherford Romp

Get your running shoes ready for the 4th Annual Rutherford Romp, a 5K and 1-mile Fun Run beginning at Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave.) this year and winding through downtown Murfreesboro on Saturday, Sept. 17. Proceeds benefit the Child Advocacy of Rutherford County, Amelia’s Closet, Murfreesboro Rescue Mission and Second Harvest Food Bank. This year the Rutherford Romp Foundation partners with the Murfreesboro Young Professionals, and proceeds from the Murfreesboro Young Professional’s Ice Cream Bowl (enjoy ice cream at the finish line) benefit United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties. To register or for more information, visit rutherfordromp.com. BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 5

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

SEPT. 17 WINE AROUND THE SQUARE The fifth annual Wine Around the Square, held on the Murfreesboro Public Square, Saturday, Sept. 17, is a progressive wine tasting, food sampling and music event. This fun community event is held on a crisp fall evening in the heart of downtown and raises money for the Power of Pink, providing diagnostic breast testing for Rutherford County women who are uninsured and underinsured. For more information, visit winearoundthesquare.org.

SEPT. 18 TENNESSEE VALLEY WINDS The Tennessee Valley Winds, a nonprofit, all-volunteer community wind band, will perform a free concert at Old Fort Park beginning at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18.

SEPT. 19 THE AMERICANS LECTURE Los Angeles roots-rock band The Americans, featured in the highly anticipated documentary American Epic, produced by T-Bone Burnett, Robert Redford and Jack White, offer a program about the origins of the music recording industry in the 1920s with historical information and performances of hillbilly, blues and other genres in MTSU’s Bragg Room 101 at 12:40 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19.

SEPT. 20 FATAL FORCE David Fallis, one of the Washington Post investigative editors who led a reporting team to fill the information gaps about police shootings in America and helped create a national database in 2015, will speak at the MTSU Student Union Building, Parliamentary Room, as part of the Pulitzer Prize Centennial Series.

SEPT. 22 COMMUNITY PULSE GROUP RHYTHM EVENT Everybody Drum Some invites anyone who would like to participate in a group drumming session to the brick area at the east side of the Rutherford County Courthouse, beginning at 6:30 p.m., on Thursday, Sept. 22. Participants may bring a lawn chair or blanket, a drum, tambourine or shaker; or if you do not have an instrument, some instruments will be provided.

SEPT. 23 AND 24

PHOTO COURTESY MIDDLE TN DRONE PILOTS

SEPT. 24

Oaklands Oktoberfest Oaklands Mansion hosts its Second Annual Oktoberfest from 5–9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, featuring local craft brewers such as The Brewsters, Panther Creek Brews, Mayday Brewery, Good People Brewery, Lagunitas, Devils Backbone and the MidState Brew Crew. Tickets are available at Oaklands Mansion and at oaklandsmansion.org.

INCEPTION ART SHOW Join the Smyrna Artist Cooperative for its art show featuring works inspired by and supporting significant cultural changes on Friday, Sept. 23, from 6–9 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 24, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy live music, see live art being created,

get your face painted and enjoy refreshments at 101 Front St., Smyrna.

SEPT. 24 MAGIC SHOW Stones River Mall and its Kids Club program will host a magic show on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. in Center Court at Stones River Mall. In addition to the magic show, attendees can enjoy face painting, crafts and balloon art at this free family-friendly event. For more information, visit stonesrivermall.com.

SEPT. 24 SCHOOL OF ROCK Participate in fun projects and learn about different aspects of geology at the Earth Experience: The Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History (816 Old Salem Rd.) from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is $10 per child. For more information, visit theearthexperience.org or call (615) 605-1417.

SEPT. 24 PUPPY PLUNGE Bring your pup to enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, before it gets too cold. All dogs must be current on vaccinations; spayed and neutered pets preferred. Humans will not be allowed in the water (dogs only). No aggressive dogs allowed. For more information, contact (615) 895-5040 or kgoss@murfreesborotn.gov. Admission is $1 per dog.

SEPT. 29 BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS The Rutherford County Chamber of 6 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

Commerce presents Business Before Hours on Thursday, Sept. 29, from 7:30–9 a.m. at Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation, 555 New Salem Hwy. Join area business leaders each month at Business Before Hours. For more information, visit rutherford chamber.org.

TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS RUTHERFORD COUNTY FARMERS MARKET Join market vendors from more than 20 Middle Tennessee counties with a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, baked and canned goods, flowers, plants and more from 7 a.m.– noon each Tuesday and Friday at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). For more information, call (615) 898-7710.

SATURDAYS MAIN STREET SATURDAY MARKET Join vendors on the west, north and south sides of the historic Rutherford County Courthouse for local fresh fruits, vegetables, breads, meats, and flowers from 8 a.m.–noon each Saturday. For more information, call (615) 895-1887 or visit downtownmurfreesboro.com.

SATURDAYS BICYCLE TOURS OF THE STONES RIVER NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD Join a ranger for a 90-minute bicycle tour of the Stones River National Battlefield (1563 N. Thompson Ln.) at 9 a.m. each Saturday. Admission is free. For more information, call (615) 893-9501.

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* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 7

ENTERTAINMENT

DJ, BINGO, TRIVIA & KARAOKE NIGHTS  MONDAYS AHART’S PIZZA GARDEN Trivia, 6:30 p.m. LEVEL III Trivia, 7 p.m.

8 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

MELLOW MUSHROOM Trivia, 8 p.m. HANDLEBARS Bike Night, DJ, 6 p.m. LEVEL III Trivia, 7 p.m.

THE BORO Vinyl Spin with KM 9 p.m.

NOBODY’S Trivia, 7 and 9:30 p.m.

 TUESDAYS

PHAT BOYZ Karaoke, 7 p.m.

BOB’S BBQ Trivia, 6 p.m.

SAM’S SPORTS GRILL Trivia, 8 p.m.

HANDLEBARS Cornhole, 6:30 p.m.

STATION GRILL Trivia, 7 p.m.

NACHO’S Trivia, 7 p.m.

THE BORO Game Night, 8 p.m.

OLD CHICAGO Trivia, 9 p.m.

 THURSDAYS

THE BORO Karaoke, 8:30 p.m.–12 a.m.

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

TGI FRIDAY’S Trivia, 9 p.m.

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

 WEDNESDAYS

SPORTS SEASONS Trivia, 7 p.m.

CAMPUS PUB Karaoke, 10 p.m.–2:30 a.m.

WHISKEY DIX DJ Cliffy D, 8 p.m.

 FRIDAYS LIQUID SMOKE DJ Night, 10 p.m. MT BOTTLE Karaoke, 9 p.m.–3 a.m. PHAT BOYZ Karaoke, 8 p.m. WHISKEY DIX DJ Cliffy D, 8 p.m.

 SATURDAYS CAMPUS PUB Karaoke, 10 p.m.–2:30 a.m. LA SIESTA (CHURCH ST.) Karaoke, 6 p.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 O’POSSUMS Trivia, 8 p.m. SAM’S SPORTS GRILL Trivia, 8 p.m.

Concerts SEPTEMBER

IF YOU GO: Autograph Rehearsal Studio 1400 W College St. 624-2954

Send show listings to Listings@BoroPulse.com View the monthly concert schedule online:

Barfield Crescent Park 697 Barfield Crescent Rd. 890-5333

BOROPULSE.COM/CONCERTS THURS, 9/1

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Ivan LaFever

THE BORO

All-star jam with Stuart Montez

FRI, 9/2

COCONUT BAY CAFE

Crossroads

GREEN DRAGON

Uncle Don Clark

MAIN STREET MUSIC

Rubiks Groove

MAYDAY BREWERY

Shannon Labrie

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

MTSU Keyboard Artist Series: Pridonoff Duo

MURFREESBORO PUBLIC SQUARE

The O’Donnells

TEMPT

Sunday Service, Boogie T, Souljunk, VRB, Seizure

THE BORO

Duke Henry

SAT, 9/3

COCONUT BAY CAFE

Graham Anthem Band

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Southern Ground

HANDLEBARS

Jimmy Miles and the Southern Pride Band, Hillfolk, Boro Boys

PHAT BOYZ

Scott Steele, Mitch Kamp

THE ALLEY ON MAIN

John Salaway

TEMPT

Travis Porter

THE BORO

Transcend the Fallen, Aye Mammoth

SUN, 9/4

HANDLEBARS

Junkbox

MON, 9/5

MAYDAY BREWERY

The Hardin Draw, Grass2Mouth, John Frazier Band

THURS, 9/8

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Ivan LaFever

FRI, 9/9

COCONUT BAY CAFE

Zone Status

MAIN STREET MUSIC

Burning Las Vegas

MAYDAY BREWERY

Bird Song Studio 213 West High St., Woodbury 615-772-6432

Everette Brown

NOBODY’S

Reckless

TEMPT

Greater Than!

Coconut Bay Café 210 Stones River Mall Blvd. 494-0504

THE ALLEY ON MAIN

John Salaway

THE BORO

PaDamn!, Giants at the Door, War All The Time

PULSE

PICK

SAT, 9/10

HANDLEBARS

Nick Matthews Band

MAIN STREET MUSIC

Classic Rock All-Stars, featuring drummer Troy Luccketta from Tesla

MAYDAY BREWERY

Hillfolk

TEMPT

Must Die!

SUN, 9/11

HANDLEBARS

Peter Moon Band

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Adam Clark; Deborah Hickey

TUES, 9/13

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Angela Deboer, Jeremiah Frederick and Eunbyol Ko; Joe Gross

WED, 9/14

BIRD SONG STUDIO

John and Julie Pennell

THURS, 9/15

FRAZIER & CO.

SATURDAY, 9/17 @ MURFREESBORO SQUARE It’s a family affair—Frazier & Co. will return for the its third year at the fifth annual Wine on the Square, a wine-tasting, food sampling and music event in downtown Murfreesboro benefiting Power of Pink, a breast cancer support charity. The fivepiece band is known to perform a variety of rock, country and soul and features guitarist and vocalist Mike Frazier, along with his sons Justin and Brad Frazier and longtime friends and musical collaborators Chuck Mullins and Mark Wright. The band, which began as The Back Porch Band years ago, is joined by special guests Horace Frazier on mandolin and vocals, Mike’s father, and Adam Dalton on keyboard. While sipping fine wine and sampling food from area restaurants, be sure to catch Frazier & Co. perform from 6–9 p.m. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK FREEDOM OF WORSHIP

Janard and Friends featuring McCoy, Cameo & Lady, Reggie White, Evan King

HANDLEBARS

Evil Twin

MAYDAY BREWERY

Landfall

TEMPT

40 Oz. Burrito (Sublime tribute)

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

THE BORO

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

SUN, 9/18

MTSU Wind Ensemble Ivan LaFever

THE BORO

All-star jam with Stuart Montez

FRI, 9/16

COCONUT BAY CAFE

DJ TruFx

MAYDAY BREWERY

Skylar Gregg

NOBODY’S

Junkbox

TEMPT

Kennedy Jones

THE ALLEY ON MAIN

John Salaway

SAT, 9/17

BIRD SONG STUDIO

Mary Gauthier

COCONUT BAY CAFE

Missy Garnett and the Two Dollar Pistols

The Guys

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

MTSU Combined Choirs and MT Choral Society

HANDLEBARS

Evil Twin

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

David Loucky, Caleb Harris

TUES, 9/20

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Don Aliquo

WED, 9/21

HANDLEBARS

Junkbox

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Confucius Day Concert

THURS, 9/22

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Ivan LaFever

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Jazz Ensemble I & II

THE BORO

Charge The Atlantic, DreadStripe

FRI, 9/23

COCONUT BAY CAFE

Southern Ground

GARAGE BAR

Uncle Don Clark

MAIN STREET MUSIC

Farcry

MAYDAY BREWERY

The Hummingbyrds

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Andrew Braddock, Bernadetto Lo

NOBODY’S

Zone Status

THE BORO

Grass2Mouth, Mike ’n’ Dyke

SAT, 9/24

COCONUT BAY CAFE

SUN, 9/25

MAIN STREET MUSIC

SkipperGrace

Celine Thackston, Elise Blatchford

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

WED, 9/28

Allison Worley Band

Mayday Brewery 521 Old Salem Hwy. 479-9722 Media Rerun 2820 S Rutherford Blvd. 907-0901

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

Phat Boyz 4425 Woodbury Pike 615-546-4526

THURS, 9/29

Tempt 211 W. Main St. 615-225-7757

Stephen Pollock

NACHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Ivan LaFever

The Alley 223 W. Main St. 203-3498

FRI, 9/30

COCONUT BAY

Karaoke w/ Hitman Walker

MAYDAY BREWERY

Travis Dukes

NOBODY’S

Mixtape

SAT, 10/1

Crossroads

Pantera tribute

Liquid Smoke #2 Public Square 217-7822

Patterson Park 521 Mercury Blvd. 893-7439

H. Stephen Smith, Arunesh Nadgir

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

MAYDAY BREWERY

Jazzmatazz 1824 Old Fort Pkwy. 624-6944

Nobody’s Grille & BBQ 2227 Old Fort Pkwy. 962-8019

MON, 9/26

MAYDAY BREWERY

MAIN STREET MUSIC

Green Dragon 714 W. Main St. 801-7171

Nacho’s 2962 S. Rutherford Blvd. 907-2700

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING

DJ RDP

HANDLEBARS

Garage Bar 405 N Front St. 934-7464

Luella, Tim Carroll MTSU Symphony

TUES, 10/4

BIRD SONG STUDIO

The Boro Bar & Grill 1211 Greenland Dr. 895-4800 The Block 123 SE Broad St. 393-9935 The Wheel 534 SE Broad St. 295-2862 Wall Street 121 N. Maple St. 867-9090

Bri Murphy

BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 9

Sounds

ecent MTSU alum Hunter Marlowe’s interest in music and innovation is making it easier for musicians to unify two beloved instruments: the acoustic guitar and the tambourine. Marlowe, who graduated last spring with a degree in audio production and a minor in entrepreneurship, is a singer/songwriter and inventor of the Jambourine, a small sound hole tambourine made for acoustic guitars. The 22-year-old graduate, originally from Newnan, Ga., designed the guitar accessory to stay silent and out of the way until it’s activated by slapping or tapping the strings. Then, he says, you have control of both the guitar and a percussion element simultaneously.

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During his time at MTSU, Marlowe landed an internship with Nashville’s Starstruck Studios, but says he grew tired of the technical aspects by the time he approached his senior year. Having performed in various bands since middle school, Marlowe decided it was time to pick up the guitar again and focus on his solo career. “I started playing every day in my room, but one night it just hit me,” he told the Pulse. “What if I could turn my slap into percussion?” At that moment, Marlowe wasn’t quite thinking of a physical product. Instead, he utilized the skills he had acquired through the recording industry program to digitally create certain sounds through music soft-

ware when he slapped the guitar. “All I had to do was plug in my guitar and program it to make a snare sound or a tambourine sound,” he said. That’s when Marlowe’s entrepreneur instincts kicked in. “I did this for six months and it finally hit me again,” he continued. “What if I go a step further and make a physical item?” A couple prototypes later, Marlowe was looking at a prospective product and a shot at $7,500 through the university’s Jennings A. Jones College of Business’ 2016 Business Plan Competition. The annual competition, which awarded a total of about $15,000 to four finalists with convincing business plans, was exactly what he needed to jump-

start the business, officially labeled “Jambourine by Marlowe.” “Once I got into the competition I really had to focus on a business plan,” he said. “I might not have done that originally . . . but the competition made me sit down and focus on the nitty gritty.” The hard work eventually paid off, he said. Many hours of planning and a couple competition rounds later, Marlowe was among the four entrepreneurs advancing to the final round. On April 26, after demonstrating how the Jambourine worked to a panel of judges, Marlowe says he then zoned in on the business side through a series of PowerPoint slides including an executive summary, distribution and marketing plans, sale projections and an overall timeline. The Shark Tank-style final round was intimidating, he admits, but after a string of questions from the judges, Marlowe finished the competition in first place. “I had to make a few edits and adjustments to the prototype,” he said. “So most of the competition money went toward those adjustments.” To carry out his business plan pitched during the competition, Marlowe launched a Kickstarter campaign, which just exceeded its $6,000 goal with 113 backers last month. He then used the Kickstarter funds to purchase inventory from the manufacturer, which arrived a couple weeks ago and was soon shipped out to supporters. Although the Jambourine is Marlowe’s main focus at the moment, he says he hopes to expand his business to include various styles, colors and models for other string instruments. “The first step is getting [the Jambourine] out there, get people to buy it and sell, sell, sell,” he said. “But the main goal is to innovate the slap or strum into something more.” The Jambourine, as well as a couple informational videos on the product, can be found on Marlowe’s website, marloweband.com.

Hunter Marlowe’s invention, the jambourine, gives guitarists a small precussive instrument.

Mr. Jambourine Man MTSU grad Hunter Marlowe Kickstarts new guitar accessory.

STORY BY DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

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ALBUMS

ISLAND WREN

HARBER AND THE BEARS

I recently revisited one of my favorite local projects, Island Wren’s 2014 EP, Fountain. The now-defunct group combined elements of folk, Americana, bluegrass and Christian alternative and featured five of Murfreesboro’s brightest young musicians: Chris Godley (vocals, mandolin, banjo, guitar), Ben Godley (vocals, guitar), Camille Faulkner (vocals, fiddle), Cole Maness (drums) and Parker Deal (vocals, bass). The Kickstarter-funded Fountain was the group’s second release and features seven tracks filled with strong melodies and instrumentation, tremendous performance chemistry and skilled arrangements. The EP kicks off with a one-two punch of Island Wren’s strongest tracks, “Drown” and “Hand It to You.” The former is a duet featuring Chris Godley and Faulkner singing lyrics such as, I am my father’s son / He runs in my blood / but I’m running dry, and I am my mother’s daughter / She’s in my heart / I’m still cold inside. “Hand It to You” is the catchiest number on the release and deals with personal struggle. The chorus features the group harmonizing with a remarkably melodic chorus. While the aforementioned vocals/lyrics are high points, the remainder of the EP showcases its two strongest aspects: instrumentation and production. Island Wren finds a way to balance all its respective instruments without any part being drowned out. The production is polished in such a manner that every part of the group’s sound shines. Furthermore, the band has knack for arrangements, as each song moves and develops instead of remaining static. This happens in small ways, such as a subtle banjo break in the underlying “Jack Kerouac” instrumental or the shift from the drum-andharmonica-centered beginning of “Centuries Wide” to its uplifting, exploding finale, fit for a worship service. This idea reaches its apex with the closing title cut. With each change of pace the complete nine-minute piece undergoes, it gets increasingly easier to hear the group’s talent for melody, rhythm and ambitious arrangements, gifts that have seldom been matched locally. Island Wren’s Fountain is available on Bandcamp, iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and Noisetrade. — JOHN CONNOR COULSTON

Last December, members of alternative rock outfit Harper and the Bears packed up their instruments in Kingsport, Tenn., to settle into a new home— Murfreesboro’s diverse music scene. The band has since dipped into the local house show circuit and, in the process, released its nine-track debut album, Theta Waves, in the spring. As the first group to sign to Bristol, Tenn., label Gold Ship Records in 2014, core members Joshua Harper, Chase Garner and Brandon Byington present a project featuring songs on the heavier side of alt-rock along with tracks that flirt with its softer acoustic counterpart. Though Harper and the Bears come from a midsize East Tennessee town, there are noticeable elements in both Harper’s vocals and the actual music that resemble artists from across the pond. To strengthen its English vibe at times, the album’s rock tracks, such as “Ghost” and “Saint Marie’s,” are reminiscent of early Arctic Monkeys, while the strippeddown numbers are comparable to the likes of singer/ songwriter Jake Bugg and London alt-pop group Bastille. While this may not have been the band’s intention, the similarities add to the record’s appeal. The album’s only setback is its lackluster production on half the record. While most tracks ring out with a clean rock sound, the remaining songs are strictly acoustic and bare-boned. Because of this, the record’s instrumentation occasionally sulks too low in the mix, which leaves Harper singing over the mute of a distant guitar. Although both styles sound fine on their own, it’s slightly jarring to go from studio quality recordings to songs recorded outside during a rainy summer afternoon (which is actually the case on the acoustic tracks). Despite the band’s decision to mix the acoustic songs in with the full-bodied tracks, it’s still an enjoyable listen and certainly shouldn’t deter listeners from checking out the band’s future releases. Find Theta Waves on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and Apple Music. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

Fountain

Theta Waves

A CLASSIC OUTSTANDING

AVERAGE BELOW AVERAGE

AVOID AT ALL COSTS DEAD BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 11

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So, is the basic vision for the band still the same after ﬁve decades? I think it has remained the same, because I’ve been doing it the same way. It’s always fun, though. It’s about making music that feels right to the moment, and only what you wanna play.

PHOTO BY SHIRLEY HAUN

Sounds

Why was it important to you to make the Talking Thelonious tribute album? I believe that I owed something back. I took a lot in from him, and I wanted to give something back. So that you don’t just say “I really like this music and I’m a fan,” not only that but I have it in me, and I can give it back to the world.

The Magic Is in the Moment The 50-year-old philosophy of NRBQ.

STORY BY STEVE MORLEY

ow, you may ask, can a band that’s been around in various incarnations for half a century manage to elude the majority of the listening public? It’s largely because NRBQ’s reason for existing has always been to follow a restless and spontaneous muse wherever it leads. “You know, some bands, some people, only get together to see if they can make something work—you know, work financially,” says founding member and keyboardist Terry Adams. “And so they try it and if it works, good. And if it doesn’t, they try something else. NRBQ is different. This is about some music that we believe in, and

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our approach to music is something that’s beyond that concept.” That approach has never before been summarized so comprehensively as on the 5-disc retrospective High Noon, due out in November. Adams counts among his earliest inspirations the pioneering jazz pianist Thelonious Monk, whom he would later meet. The latest NRBQ-related project, the recently released Monk tribute Talking Thelonious, is a slight departure from the band’s abnormal norm. The album’s dozen tracks are true to Monk’s intrepid musical spirit but, thanks to Adams’ arrangements, are cut from cloth that’s clearly NRBQ. Adams—who will be

bringing the ’Q to Nashville’s City Winery on Wednesday, Sept. 7—took time out from record shopping on a recent afternoon to chat with the Pulse about what’s been making NRBQ tick for five decades.

Thelonious Monk’s music has inﬂuenced you pretty profoundly, hasn’t it? Yeah, I don’t know why, but just as soon as I heard it—I guess I was about 14 or so—I knew that this guy had something very special that I could learn from. And it’s not just about notes and chords, it’s about something elseÐsomething in the world, something about life. It came to me immediately.

MURFREESBORO PULSE: Can you

believe that NRBQ is still active 50 years after the band ﬁrst took shape? TERRY ADAMS: Yeah, I’m kind of amazed about it, really. It doesn’t seem that long. We just started playing the music how we felt. That’s all we ever did. I remember that, playing it at home, in the basement or whatever in the house. And we took it out to the stage. And when you’re doing that, I guess the time goes flying. Yeah, 50 years, I’m proud of that, that we were able to keep it going. And it’s because the guys that are in the band, at least while they’re in the band, believe in it strongly. There’s been an awful lot of good bands that just haven’t lasted as long. It could be that for them, maybe the magic came and it went, you know? For me, I still think we’ve got more to say.

Was NRBQ designed to be a band that deﬁes stylistic boundaries, or is that just how it naturally is? I think people like to describe music in one way or other. “What kind of band are you in?” That’s a common question. So, when it comes to us, they have to say . . . since they don’t have the term [to describe us], then the term is “they like all kinds of things.” So that [definition] gets stuck on us, but sometimes we don’t [accommodate that description]. I don’t go around saying, “Watch all the different things we’re going to do”; that’s not the idea. We have something that is unique to our band, and that’s what people hear when they come to listen to us. That’s why people like us. They feel something. They feel something that helps them.

What’s your recipe for magic? To be able to not have it planned out. Some bands do the same thing every night. It’s hard to get magic when you’re just going through some predetermined thing. . . . We don’t know what’s gonna happen [onstage]. And that’s when I’m happiest, when the unknown happens.

At 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7, City Winery hosts NRBQ and Los Straitjackets, known for delivering classic surfguitar instrumentals from behind full-head wrestling masks. With an inspired pairing this offbeat, anything could happen. For more information or to order tickets, visit citywinery.com.

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* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 13

Sounds

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MUSIC NOTES BECK

THE ARCS

HALL & OATES

PILGRIMAGE FEST IS BACK

Beck, Grace Potter, Violent Femmes, Hall & Oates and more in festival’s second year. STORY BY MICHAEL A. LAMURE WITH NASHVILLE BEING MUSIC CITY and the annual celebration of music culture at Bonnaroo, musical expectations in Middle Tennessee are high by default. The creators of Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival clearly understand this and aren’t holding back. The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, a century-old walking horse farm bordered by the Harpeth River in the rolling hills of Franklin, Tenn., will host Pilgrimage on Sept. 24 and 25. Last year’s inaugural Pilgrimage offered an impressive lineup of local, regional and national artists, with Wilco, Willie Nelson, Weezer, Steven Tyler, Sheryl Crow, Band of Horses and Cage the Elephant topping the bill. The 2016 lineup is equally if not more impressive, with Beck, Grace Potter, Cake and the Violent Femmes starting off the festival on Saturday, Sept. 24. On Sunday, Sept. 25, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Jason Isbell, Kacey Musgraves and The Arcs headline the closing day. Pilgrimage features four stages of music ranging from local to national artists and the Little Pilgrims stage for younger musicians and music fans. The bazaar will feature local cuisine, craft beverages, local art and handmade wares. Many of Nashville’s popular food trucks will be there. The list is long so I won’t bore you with the entirety of it, but it does cover the board from grilled cheese and Thai to lobster and pie.

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Though the festival is still in its infancy, creators Kevin Griffin, W. Brandt Wood and Michael Whelan have high hopes and an excellent template. Justin Timberlake joins the founders this year as a new partner, and the producers say they wish to highlight and showcase the culture and vibe of Middle Tennessee and Franklin similar to the way the New Orleans Jazz Fest has done for NOLA. Much like Jazz Fest, Pilgrimage is held during the day (gates open at 10 a.m. and shows wrap up at 8 p.m.) and offers a wide variety of genres, including a diverse selection of rock ’n’ roll, alt-country, bluegrass, jazz, indie and gospel. Performing in the rustic and open outdoor venue, many bands will turn down for partly acoustic sets. The fest will also have “Pilgrimashups,” pairing artists for special one-time collaborations. The Park at Harlinsdale Farm is walking distance from downtown Franklin, where the festivities will continue with nightly concerts and good eats and drinks from the best of Franklin’s restaurants and bars. Pilgrimage, in my opinion, is going to be one of the most talked-about events of summer 2016 in Middle Tennessee. This event seems to have all bases covered, and I want to experience it. For tickets and more information about Pilgrimage Fest, visit pilgrimagefestival.com.

MTSU’S WMOT WELCOMES AMERICANA FORMAT THIS MONTH WMOT, MTSU’s 100,000-watt public radio station, is changing its programming to reach a larger audience with a new format dedicated to Americana music, as well as a new home for its current jazz format. On Sept. 2, the station will be known as WMOT-FM/Roots Radio 89.5 and will become the region’s only channel devoted to the fusion of bluegrass, folk, soul, country and blues music commonly known in the music industry as Americana. The station, which has formally partnered with Nashville roots variety show Music City Roots, will remain a training ground for MTSU students interested in pursuing and integrating audio editing and narration skills into their portfolios. The station’s stable of air personalities will include staff from Music City Roots, the Grand Ole Opry and the Center for Popular Music at MTSU, with CPM director Greg Reish set to host a weekly “Lost Sounds” show drawing on the archives with historic context. The previous jazz format will move to 92.3 FM. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

SOUNDBREAKING: STORIES FROM THE CUTTING EDGE OF RECORDED MUSIC The Grammy Museum and Higher Ground present three educational conferences with themes taken from the eight-part PBS series Soundbreaking: Stories from the Cutting Edge of Recorded Music; one will be held at MTSU’s BAS State Farm Room from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25, offering episode screenings followed by moderated panel discussions with industry professionals featured in the series. Topics include the intricacies of recording and the recording process, the introduction of technology in music and the evolution of music into what we know today. The episodes “The Human Instrument” and “Going Electric” will be screened at MTSU. — ANDREA STOCKARD

CENTER FOR POPULAR MUSIC RECEIVES RARE BLUEGRASS RECORDINGS Middle Tennessee State University’s Center for Popular Music has recently acquired a trove of rare bluegrass recordings, along with a Preservation Implementation grant from the GRAMMY Foundation that will allow employees to digitize, catalog and disseminate the late Marvin Hedrick’s bluegrass tape collection beginning this summer. The collection, donated by sons Gary and David Hedrick, includes 167 open-reel tapes of stage performances and jam sessions performed and recorded at the Brown County Jamboree and the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Festival in Bean Blossom, Ind. This is the second GRAMMY Foundation grant received by the CPM following its 2013 award to catalog and digitize the Charles Wolfe tape collection. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK

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* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 15

Sounds

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CITY CAFE TO HOST SPECIAL EDITION OF JUSTIN REED SHOW Wow—what a great month lined up for The Justin Reed Show! We get an extra Thursday, which means September promises to be a month full of great guests on the show. SEPT. 1: The show will be broadcast live from historic City Cafe (113 E. Main St.) from 7–10 a.m. Guests on this show include Billy Henson, Gary West, Doug Briney, Luke Caccetta and Erin McLendon. Come out and enjoy a good breakfast and great music! For more information on this special installment of the show, visit thejustinreedshow.com/breakfast. SEPT. 8: We will welcome Robyn Taylor in the 8 a.m. hour. Taylor, featured in last month’s Pulse, is the owner of Bird Song Studio in my hometown, Woodbury. She will drop by to talk about the studio and play live. For more information on Bird Song, visit thebirdsongstudio.com. At 9 a.m., Laura Leigh Jones will visit the studio. Fresh off the release of EP1, Jones will discuss her life in music and play live. For more information, visit lauraleighjones.com. SEPT. 15: The return of two favorites:

Ben Rush will join us in the 8 a.m. hour. Rush will drop by to feature new music and catch us up on his news. He was previously on episodes 99 & 101. Follow Rush @BenRushOfficial on Twitter. At 9 a.m., Beau Braswell will make his third appearance on the show. Braswell is one of the people responsible for getting yours truly into radio. He is a world renowned performer and motorcycle champion. He will play live as we celebrate his upcoming birthday on the 17th! Follow Beau @ Beau_Braswell on Twitter.

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MUSIC NOTES

SEPT. 22: The lovely and talented Erin McLendon will be back to co-host with me. For those who have heard her cohosting with me before, they know that anything can happen when Erin drops by. I do know she will be bringing Uke the ukulele to play live and that she will divulge all sorts of secrets to the radio listener. This will be McLendon’s 10th appearance on the show. For more information, visit erinmclendon.com. SEPT. 29: I am looking forward to the

first visit from Ryan Broshear on the show. I had the privilege of meeting Ryan at the Uncle Dave Macon Days as part of a live radio broadcast; Broshear will bring something somewhat unique to the show—he makes his home here in the ’Boro. Ryan will drop by to talk about his new album, Paint It Red, and play live for us. For more information on Ryan, visit ryanbroshear.com. Thank you for your constant support of the show and myself. I hope to have you tune in to 88.3 WMTS FM each Thursday morning at 6 a.m. for the Warm-up Show and at 7 a.m. as we go live with the national anthem. For more information on the show, visit thejustinreedshow.com and like facebook.com/thejustinreedshow. On Twitter, the show is @tjrs_wmts. Also, come visit the Dewdrop Jamboree on Oct. 1 from the Patterson Park Theatre as I will serve at the Master of Ceremonies for the 2 ½-hour show! See facebook. com/theoriginaldewdropjamboree for the complete lineup. Until next month, Peace, Love and Ernest Tubb. — JUSTIN REED

THE COMMUNITY PULSE THE PULSE AND EVERYBODY DRUM SOME INVITES THE PUBLIC TO SEPT. 22 RHYTHM EVENT ON THE MURFREESBORO SQUARE The Murfreesboro Pulse and Everybody Drum Some partnered on a Make Music Day/Summer Solstice Community Rhythm Event in June. Organizers and participants enjoyed it so much, they plan to do it again. Anyone who would like to participate in a group drumming session can come to the brick area at the east side of the Rutherford County Courthouse right in the center of the city, beginning at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 22, this time coinciding with the autumnal equinox. Rhythmists can bring djembes, congas, shakers, hoop drums, tambourines or their percussive instrument of choice. Everybody Drum Some will provide instruments and seating for those who want to join but don’t have anything to bring. Ross Lester even invites those who may not wish to drum to come out and watch and hear the spectacle, a group of people, many of whom have never met each other, coming together to create a new piece of collaborative percussive music. “It’s an important freedom to peacefully gather and engage in civic life,” says Lester, a Murfreesboro drum instructor and group rhythm leader. He also brings his Drum Disciples to the sidewalk near Concert Musical Supply each Saturday morning simultaneous to the Saturday Market on the Square, and leads rhythm events at the VA. To Lester, such a rhythm event is much more than a bunch of individuals smacking

drum heads to make a beautiful noise. A scientific study conducted in the U.K. released earlier in 2016 explored whether general music making within community settings can enhance mental health and well-being. “Significant improvements were found in the drumming group,” this study concluded. “There were decreases in depression and increases in social resilience . . . alongside significant improvements in anxiety and mental well-being. All significant changes were maintained at 3 months follow-up.” So, the effects of group drumming can be positive and long-lasting. A drum circle can teach skills such as listening to your neighbor, respect, communication and creativity. Many say that listening to your neighbor, respect, communication and creativity could benefit our community and the world. “It is exemplary of society as a whole,” Lester said of a drum circle. These group rhythm events can indeed offer a chance for plenty of personal artistic expression and freedom, but Lester spoke of the importance of listening to what those surrounding you are saying, and of being conscious that your part doesn’t infringe upon the rhythm of the community. Unplug and drum with others at a Community Pulse Rhythm Event on Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Courthouse. — BRACKEN MAYO

JOHNNY GUITAR’S HOSTS 8TH ANNUAL JOHNNAROO Johnny Guitar’s Music Institute will hold its eighth annual Johnnaroo concert at The Avenue on Saturday, Sept. 17, beginning at 11 a.m. Music students will prepare for six weeks before performing at the show for more than 200 fans. For a group of kids and teenagers ages 7–15, this most likely will be their biggest stage yet, so be sure to head out and support some of Murfreesboro’s rising young musicians. Johnny Guitar’s is located at 1341 Battleground Drive in Murfreesboro and offers guitar, drums, piano and vocal lessons in numerous styles and genres. For more information, call (615) 896-5151. — JOHN CONNOR COULSTON

JOHN FRAZIER TO PLAY CHARITY SHOW AT MAYDAY String musician John Frazier will bring his fresh take on roots music and Americana to Mayday Brewery for a charity show at Mayday Brewery, located at 521 Old Salem Road, on Sept. 5 at 4:30 p.m. Frazier is a revered session musician who’s toured and collaborated with greats including Del McCoury, JD Crowe, Sam Bush and Béla Fleck. He also toured with comedy legend and bluegrass musician Steve Martin, whom with he co-wrote the song “Go Away, Stop, Turn Around, Come Back” from Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers’ 2011 album Rare Bird Alert. Portions of the proceeds from Frazier’s tour will go to Children’s Miracle Network. — JOHN CONNOR COULSTON BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 17

Living

’Boro International Stage Schedule

CLASSIC DANCERS OF WAT AMPHAWAN OF AMERICA

’Boro International Around the World in Just One Day STORY BY ELIZABETH SCOTT SAWYER

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ravel around the world in just one day–and you don’t even have to leave Murfreesboro to do it. Thanks to the Murfreesboro City School System and its partners, ’Boro International will be at Cannonsburgh Village on Saturday, Sept. 10. ’Boro International will start at 10 a.m. that day with a community-wide flash mob singalong to “We Are the World.” Linell, one of the event’s founders and an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher at Reeves Rogers Elementary, urges everyone to come sing along during the children’s Parade of Flags. This multi-cultural festival is sponsored by Murfreesboro City Schools in partnership with MTSU, the Confucius Institute and Murfreesboro Parks and Rec. ’Boro International began as a group of like-minded individuals who came together with the hopes of establishing a community-wide, multicultural celebration. The festival will consist of performances, vendors and booths to exhibit history and culture from countries around the world. Exhibit booths will be from Norway, Peru, China, Thailand and Laos, Saudi Arabia, Iran, South Korea and other countries. Enjoy authentic dishes from Mexico, India, the Middle East and other parts of Asia, while crafters and entertainers will represent most regions of the world. “I am thrilled at the wonderful array of ethnic foods, crafts and performers participating in the ’Boro International Festival this year,” Linell said. One performance group to look forward to is the Dok Bua Classical Dancers of Wat Amphawan of America. The group consists of young members of the Buddhist temple on Barfield Crescent Road. The dancers, led by instructor Kaitlyn Thayvy, perform traditional dances that originate from Thailand and Laos. When Thayvy decided to start the group, she did so to pass on traditional Thai/Lao dancing to the present generation so they won’t forget who they are and where they come from. “Old traditions tend to die the more we move into future times and a lot of Thai/ Lao children are not interested in traditional things,” Thayvy told the Pulse. “I honestly would say, these girls are some of the few that still like to uphold traditional Thai/Lao dancing within the community.” The girls have bonded together throughout the weeks of practice and “developed a sisterhood these past months,” said Thayvy. “It’s definitely a big day to them whenever we get a chance to perform.” While these girls dance and other live performances go on, booths will be set up for international cuisine, arts and crafts, fashion and children’s activities. Among the vendors will be Ten Thousand Villages. The fair trade business sells crafts

10 A.M. – Parade of Flags / “We Are the World” 10:15 A.M. – David Schmidt’s Welcome Speech 10:20 A.M. – Dragon/Lion Dance 10:30 A.M. – Symbolic Painting of Dragon’s Eyes 10:45 A.M. – Indian Dance 11 A.M. – Master Park’s Tae Kwon Do group 11:15 A.M. – Sohil Albakri on Oud 11:30 A.M. – Thai Spice dancers 11:45 A.M. – Drum Circle 12:15 P.M. – Rezvan’s Iranian Dance group 12:30 P.M. – Mei Han Chinese instrumental group 12:45 P.M. – Folklore Latin Dancers 1 P.M. – Korean hip-hop group 1:15 P.M. – Harriet Tubman storyteller (June LaGreen) 1:30 P.M. – Panamanian Drummer: Carlos 1:45 P.M. – Palestinian Dancers 2 P.M. – Classical Dancers of Wat Amphawan of America 2:15 P.M. – International Fashion Show 2:40 P.M. – Closing speech 2:50 P.M. – Grand Finale, MTSU Choir

CARLOS ENRIQUE

and handmade goods with a company vision that one day all artisans in developing countries will earn a fair wage, be treated with dignity and respect and be able to live a life of quality. This is just one of the festival vendors that will be making sales to make a difference. The community can come see the crafts and make purchases throughout the day. Tena Bailey, an ESL teacher at Reeves Rogers Elementary and one of the organizers of this event, wants everyone to come to the ’Boro International Festival. “We want everyone to feel welcomed and hope to have attendees from young to old,” said Bailey. “This festival is an opportunity to experience diversity in a way that broadens our horizons and builds bridges.” The festival will have a little bit of something for all ages. So, to demonstrate your support, show up and enjoy the journey around the world.

Power of Pink

ANNUAL WINE AROUND THE SQUARE BENEFIT RETURNS SEPT. 17. AT FIRST GLANCE, strength may not be the first word you’d use to describe her. She walks with a cane, moving one leg carefully in front of the other. In public, she wears a mask over her mouth and carries Benadryl in her bag because even one whiff of pet dander can make it hard to breathe. But Brenda Whitfield is anything but weak. Raised in Columbus, Ohio, Brenda learned to push forward at an early age. She grew up in a community tempered by discrimination and felt its effects more than once. Home life also proved a challenge. Her mother was harsh, and when Brenda was only 12 years old, her father developed lung cancer that claimed his life four years later. Through these trials, Brenda clung to two constants: her twin sister, Linda, and her faith in God. While many people could be stymied by circumstances, Brenda knew she had a bigger power inside her. She put her determined spirit to work, attending Ohio State University and graduating with degrees in Black Studies, Economics and Art Therapy. She got married, gave birth to two daughters and worked as an art therapist in Indianapolis. In 1993, Brenda and her family moved to Tennessee for her husband’s job at Sat-

urn. From then on, she dedicated herself to being a “hands-on mom” and pushing her two girls through school. She succeeded in raising her daughters and became the proud grandmother of three beautiful grandchildren. Through all of these challenges and changes, Brenda and twin sister Linda remained close confidants. “We were born only a minute apart,” says Brenda, “and we planned to grow old together.” But that plan was interrupted when, at age 39, Linda found out she had breast cancer and died in 2010. Brenda struggled to find a new normal after her twin sister’s death; their connection couldn’t be equaled, and she said she felt like a piece of herself was missing. Still raw from her loss three years later, what came next was a shock when Brenda found out that she, too, had breast cancer. “At first I thought it was a death sentence,” she says. She went on to describe her intense feelings of anger and fear. What would she look like? Would she die of cancer, like her father and sister before her? But Brenda didn’t get stuck there. “When I let go and wasn’t angry anymore,” Brenda recalls, “I was empowered.

My empowerment came from my faith in the Lord.” Brenda was determined not to “sit around and let death catch her.” The hospital connected Brenda to Dr. Stephen Rich through the Power of Pink program: “Dr. Rich was very hands-on,” she says. “I felt like he was sent by God.” All monies raised by the annual downtown Murfreesboro event, Wine Around the Square, goes directly to the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation’s Power of Pink program, which provides diagnostic breast care to women who are uninsured and underinsured. With Dr. Rich at her side, the added counsel

of oncologist Dr. John Zubkus and the kind care of the nurses, Brenda underwent a mastectomy of her left breast, followed by three rounds of chemotherapy. As of April 2016, Brenda has been cancer-free for one year. She feels like her life is a gift: “If God gives to you, you should give back,” says Brenda, who takes the time to speak truth and life into the people around her. While the cancer and treatments have left her body weaker, Brenda’s spirit is stronger than ever. “You can think yourself to death,” she says, “but the energy it takes to feel sorry for myself takes away from life. You have to think positive. Keep trusting God, and he will do wonders.”

 Win Tickets to Wine Around the Square at BOROPULSE.COM/WATS The Fifth annual Wine Around the Square, held on the Murfreesboro Public Square, Saturday, Sept. 17, is a progressive wine tasting, food sampling and music event outdoors that raises money for the Power of Pink, providing diagnostic breast testing for Rutherford County women who are uninsured and underinsured. No event costs are taken out of the funds raised; event costs are either donated or provided by Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Last year, more than 200 volunteers worked to make Wine Around the Square an outstanding success, raising more than $178,000 with over 1,100 people in attendance. In 2015, 500 mammograms were provided to Rutherford County women through the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation and the Power of Pink program. Each year, Wine Around the Square

honors women who have had breast cancer; the 2016 honoree is Dotty Adams. Guests at the Sept. 17 event will check in under the big tent on the south side inner loop of the square. Guests receive a etched WATS keepsake wine glass and will enjoy live music while they sample over 75 wines and great appetizers and snacks available at office and retail venues around the Square. Event tickets are $60 per person and include all wine and food stations. VIP tickets are $250 and include the main event plus a VIP party at Daffodilly Designs, 118 West Vine St., from 5–7 p.m. catered by Five Senses. A late party at The Alley, 223 W. Main St. is free; this begins at 9 p.m. and features music by Marshall Creek Band. For tickets or more information, visit winearoundthesquare.org. BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 19

Living

Local Honey

Farmers’ Market Education Series BY EDWINA SHANNON

had time to do it. I laugh now, but a manager thought I had a basket of illegal substance. There is an effort underway to bring the production of hemp back to the State. Hemp and marijuana, although related, are different, with the biggest factor being the cannabinoid levels. Any plant with THC of .3% or less is classified as hemp. If you would like to learn more about this resurging industry, come to the Farmers Market class on Sept 6.

Farmers Market Classes

Gardening With Herbs HERBS CAN BE SUCH AN OVERLOOKED,

misunderstood and underappreciated plant species. Our forebears knew their importance, as they were an integral part of any kitchen garden. In addition to culinary uses, most herbs had medicinal purposes in the days before a quick trip to the pharmacy provided a drug prescription. There are many resources on the historic importance of herbs in the survival of humans. In today’s world, herbs are grown for ornamental reasons, culinary and medicinal uses, and for fragrance. With a little research, you can easily find the nutritional value of a plant. You can find what food to pair with it. You can read proven and folklore claims for medicinal uses. You can decide if an herb would work perfectly in your landscape design. For the most part, herbs are easy to grow. They are a broad category of plants but most need full sun and a soil with organic matter that is well drained. Like flowers, some are annual, some biennial and some perennial. Each species has different characteristics and different strengths for use. Some survive drought. Some produce a better fragrance, others a good oil. Many broad category (genus) names have types (species) within that category. An example is the plant commonly known as lavender. The common name “lavender” is the genus with 39 decided species. The most cultivated species is English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). This lavender is commonly grown as an ornamental plant, although the dried flowers can be used to scent a drawer or closet. The species Lavender Vera is thought to be the true English lavender. Many consider this species to produce the best quality oil, which comes from plants grown at altitudes between 2,500 and 4,500 feet on the sides of mountains in central Europe. The lavender oil would be used 20 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

for medicinal and aromatherapy purposes. What do you want from an herb planting? Some mints are great ground covers. Other herbs create an organized, controlled edge. Have you thought about the herb basil? Some call it the king of the herbs. For culinary uses, plant the green one. For decorative use, plant the purple. Save the seeds or let them drop on the ground for self-sowing. Would you have a favorite herbal tea? Maybe a lemon tea? I have lemon balm. The best time to harvest the stalks for leaf usage is just before the plant flowers. I have to admit to harvesting the plants several times a year—or, at least, I try. I tie a handful of stalks together and hang them upside down to dry. Choose a well ventilated area for hanging, and I would not recommend a diameter wider than one inch of stalks. I clump mine together with an elastic band. When dry, continue to keep them where they dried or remove the leaves and store in an airtight glass container. Dried herbs are stronger in flavor than fresh ones. The quantity of herbs to use is just like the herbs selected—a personal choice. Start with a small quantity. For tea, let the dried leaves steep for several minutes in hot water. I love flavoring my spaghetti sauce with parsley, oregano and basil from the garden. Since I already dry the leaves, I am now wondering about extracting oil from the plants and creating my own essential oil. If I were to put together a list of herbs for others to try, the common names on my own list are lavender, sage, rosemary, parsley, thyme, basil and mint. You can make herbal sachets. Give the dried herbs as gifts. The most tedious part of gifting the herbs is extracting the leaves from the dried stalks. I once brought a basket of dried oregano to work so I could separate the leaves when I

SEPT. 2 Managing Pests and Diseases in Honeybees George Martin, Martin’s Honeyhouse

SEPT. 6 2016 TN Hemp Update Colleen Keahy, Tennessee Hemp Industries Alliance

SEPT. 9 Flowers for Fall Container Gardening Linda Lindquist, CMG

SEPT. 13 Nature Weaving Fiber artist Catie Beth Thomas

SEPT. 16 Beyond Honey: Exploring Diversity and Importance of Native Bees Frank Hale, UT Entomologist

SEPT. 20 Nature Friendly Yards Cynthia Allen, MTSU Stormwater

SEPT. 23 Composting Mark Murphy, CMG

SEPT. 27 Seasonal Eating: Honey and Sweet Potatoes, Carla Bush

SEPT. 30 Products of the Beehive Susan Welchance, RC Beekeeper

OCT. 4 Permaculture Richard Lee, CMG

OCT. 7 Reptiles, Amphibians, Mammals and Birds (children friendly) Shelly Denton, Discovery Center Farmers’ Market classes are free and are held at the Community Center at Lane Agri-Park on John R. Rice Blvd and start at 9 a.m. For more information call (615) 898-7710. Look for recorded classes on the RC Farmers Market YouTube channel.

Liquid gold for your biscuits, sauces and in this vinaigrette. BY CHEF ALEX BELEW

I’VE NEVER BEEN A FAN OF BEES, especially since being stung at MTSU when I was 6. I will generally have a fullblown freakout if one starts following me. It’s probably video-worthy, with my arms flailing, voice three octaves higher and my shoes moving as fast in the opposite direction as possible. But, these little guys make one of my favorite ingredients in the world. At any given point, we have three different types of honey in our pantry. I love it. Almost to the point that I would say you could put it on anything. The only downside to honey is that it is mostly nutrient-empty. Better than granulated sugar? Probably, but still not equal to an Acai bowl with avocado. But, you could put honey on that and make it taste better, too! After 8,000 years of cultivation and consumption, it’s safe to say honey is one of the world’s oldest and most widely used ingredients. In the U.S. alone there are over 300 different varieties of honey. Bees work incessantly to produce this liquid gold. They fly from flower to flower drinking up its nectar, some of which is used to maintain their bodies during flight, then naturally break this down into simple sugars and store it in honeycombs. The worker bees’ constant wing-flapping causes evaporation to occur. The water content drops from 20% to 18% and the sugar content is raised, which prevents fermentation. The bees then cap the cell walls with wax until removed by a beekeeper. Stored properly, honey has an almost indefinite shelf life. Between 2015 and 2016, the University of Maryland conducted a study that concluded 44% of honey bees were lost from beekeepers and small-scale farmers. This mostly happens because of a parasite called Varroa Mite. In order to sustain these bees, we need a better understanding and method of controlling this parasite. It is possible to bring back the hive, though it takes work and money, both of which are limited for farmers. We have several varieties of honey at our local farmers markets every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. It’s a key ingredient in my home and my business. It’s ridiculously versatile: dressings, marinades, sauces, baking, stir frying, glazing, brining and the list goes on. Try honey butter on biscuits, pancakes and waffles. Keep in mind, the darker the color, the stronger the flavor and aroma. And, if it crystallizes, it’s not bad! Just warm it up in its jar or nuke it for a few seconds and boom . . . liquid gold once again.

 Here’s a great recipe I use for a number of applications. This can be used as a pasta salad dressing, salad dressing or even a chicken marinade.

CHAMPAGNE HONEY VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS: 1 shallot, finely diced 2 tablespoons dijon mustard ¼ cup good quality champagne vinegar 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 3 tablespoons honey 2 teaspoon Allepo pepper ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ½ cup good quality extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS: Pour all ingredients into a container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake violently until mixture looks creamy and emulsified. Season to taste. Alternatively, you can combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and mix until smooth and combined.

Alex Belew is the chef/owner of Alex Belew Catering. Alex has over 20 years in the restaurant industry. He has been on the Food Network, won the International Biscuit Festival, won 1st Place in the Tennessee State ProStart Championship, and is currently working on opening a small space in the downtown area of Murfreesboro. He is married to Sarah, has a 19 month old son named Riah, and another baby due in February.

BOROPULSE.COM

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Living

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRACKEN MAYO

Middle Tennessee beekeepers collect honey, pollen and other valuable products from the amazing honey bee.

umans have gathered honey, the sweet gift from the bees, for millennia. Aside from its deliciousness, ancient cultures treasured honey for its antibacterial properties, and even its effective use as an embalming fluid. Beekeepers across the world construct hives for honey bees and pour their time and energy into ensuring their bee colonies are protected, placed within a few miles of plenty of flowering plants from which to collect nectar, and, when the honey is ample, extract it from the hives. Zane Cantrell, president of the Rutherford County Beekeepers Association and Vice President of the Middle Tennessee District of the Tennessee Beekeepers Association, keeps approximately 20 hives in three locations near Murfreesboro. “I only put 7 or 8 hives at each apiary,” Cantrell said. From these he collects 100–150 gallons of honey each year. “I’m not a big-time honey producer,” said Cantrell, who considers himself more of a hobbyist. But he said he does collect some wonderful honey twice per year, usually in early May “when there is high nectar flow” and again in the fall. “We don’t pull honey until it’s capped,” Cantrell said, meaning that bees have filled each tiny chamber in a particular frame within the hive, and then covered the entire 22 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

frame with beeswax, another useful substance bees produce. The beekeeper can then remove the frame from the hive, scrape the beeswax from the frame and then place the frame in a honey extractor, a machine that spins rapidly, slinging the honey out of the frame and down towards a spout, where it can be deposited into buckets. Cantrell and his wife strain the honey three times prior to jarring it; after straining, it’s ready to eat. Honey can take on a different taste based on the type of plants from which the bees collect pollen and nectar. One of the locations where Cantrell keeps his beehives sits behind the home of Nat and Maxine Henderson, on

Lebanon Road near the VA complex. “Cotton grows around here,” Cantrell said of one of the primary crops the bees from that apiary visit, pollinate and collect from. Bees will fly about five miles from their hive, he said. So they have many options of different flowering plants to choose from. But honey bees pollinate in a very focused way, said Cantrell, who grew up on a farm in DeKalb County, and retired from the Murfreesboro City School system in 2004. “The honey bee is the best pollinator of all of the pollinators. A honey bee will work one plant until the nectar is gone,” he said. “Bumble bees jump around.” While wasps are also important pollinators, you don’t see anyone collecting sweet honey from a wasp’s nest. The fall honey from the Henderson location will have a blend of goldenrod, ragweed and farm crops. Spring honey from that area contains clover, tulip poplar, locust and sugar maple nectar. While Cantrell sells the limited honey from his hives to his circle of friends and doesn’t have plans to grow his honey operation as a business, he has an enormous amount of respect and appreciation for the bees and their work. Moving pollen from one flower to another is a necessary part of fruit production. Settlers in the American colonies in the 1600s struggling with poor crop production had to go back to England to bring back honey bees. Cantrell said he knows the 50,000–75,000 bees hived at the location on Lebanon Road help the crop production in the area and help keep the circle of life and the food chain vibrant. “It’s a hobby to me; I never break even,” Cantrell said. “It’s not just about honey production to me. It’s about making this world a little better than I found it. . . . I can’t do much about the world, but I can do something about this neighborhood.” The role of the beekeeper increases in importance as small hive beetles and other

pests are devastating wild beehives across the country at an increasing rate. “You hardly hear of any feral bees any more,” said Cantrell. It can often be intimidating for a novice to venture into this complex honey production cycle, risking bee stings and financial loss, but another area beekeeper, Mike Reynolds, enjoys educating newcomers into the world of beekeeping. He said he understands opening a honey production facility at the commercial level would require a significant investment, although folks wanting to get into beekeeping do not need to be intimidated and they can start small. A single “nuc” (or nucleus) box loaded with five frames and bees sells for $165, he said. Reynolds said that he too recognizes that bees are amazing creatures, and he enjoys observing them communicating with one another. “The bees do a waggle dance to tell the other bees where the flower patch is,” he said. Reynolds, who keeps about 30 hives near Rockvale, quit his $35-an-hour factory job to keep bees (and to train German shepherds), realizing they make much more than honey. “You can sell everything,” Reynolds said. The royal jelly, pollen, propolis, comb and wax are all valuable products. “The bees put out a glue called propolis,” Reynolds said. “They seal the hive with this; you have to break the seal with a tool.” This gluing together of the hive makes it more structurally sound, and reduces the chance for bacteria and other insects to enter the bee kingdom. “Farmers will pay for you to bring your bees to their crops” to help pollinate, Reynolds added. For those who shop at the Murfreesboro Saturday Market or the Nashville Flea Market, Charles Hamilton makes his honey and pollen available there. He keeps bees in Warren County and sells their products alongside his wife’s cakes, breads and cookies at their Molly’s Sweet Shop booth. For more information about the Rutherford County Beekeepers Association or on having a hive removed, contact Zane Cantrell at (615) 210-9991. Mike Reynolds said he enjoys helping aspiring beekeepers learn more about bees and honey; contact him at (931) 626-2668. Find honey from Hamilton’s bees at the Murfreesboro Saturday Market each Saturday morning on the Murfreesboro Square, or visit mollyssweetshop.vpweb. com to order pollen and honey. Interested in learning more about beekeeping? The Rutherford County Beekeepers Association meets the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Lane Agri-Park, 315 John Rice Blvd.

EPIC ESCAPE Dixon family opens new 60 Minute Escape near mall. STORY BY JUSTIN STOKES MIKE AND REESE DIXON HAD A BLAST

with their experience at the Nashville Escape Game, and said they really appreciated the “family fun” part of the escape rooms business. The former proprietors of an airbrush tattoo company, looking to do something exciting after their kids got old enough to move out of the house, decided to open 60 Minute Escape (just beside the Stones River Mall and in the same shopping center as Alfonso’s Mexican Restaurant and UFIT Personal Training) to keep them busy during the golden years of their lives. “My wife and I, along with our nephew William and one of his associates, came up with all we are doing at 60 Minute Escape,” says Mike. “We wanted our games to be unique, we wanted to offer something people could relate to, as well as be totally immersed in our themes and settings for a total 60-minute adventure. We also used some experienced folks over at Smartworks to assist in some of the build-out.” The daily booking at 60 Minute, titled The Fallout, is a scenario set in an alternate timeline of 1958 America as the Ruskies have have launched a nuke. Participants in this adventure are trying to find shelter, which comes in the form of a run-down farmhouse that has a fallout shelter hidden somewhere inside it. Another scenario available to escape gamers takes players to an abandoned modern dig site adjacent to the Great Pyramids that has seen strange activity and the disappearance of their archaeological crew. The owners describe the Pharoah’s Chambers room to be

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL BUSINESS

“epic,” and as close to being in an Egyptian tomb as one would care to be. There are more rooms still to be built, of course, and since the Dixons are handling everything in-house, the differentiation of missions and puzzles is what’s going to be the deciding factor in success for this escape game business as it competes with others. “As far as modifying the concept, we feel our eye for the details along with how we design our games sets us apart. We have no fake clues. We don’t want a player to spend half their time on a false clue that provides no payoff,” Mike says. “We also try to make sure as each task is completed it immediately takes them to another. Seeing progression is one of the keys to the group having fun.” The business’s “most frequent compliment” seems to be the reality created within the rooms that goes for as much authenticity as possible. The puzzles are the star, but the owners feel the primary factor in the business’s success is in making players really feel the tension in the scenario. “This has been the most exciting, fun job my wife and I have ever had,” adds Mike. “It is such fun to watch players enjoy themselves and the highs and lows 60 minutes can bring to a group . . . the thrill we as the owners get watching everyone enjoy our games so much is one of the best feelings you can have.” 60 Minute Escape is located at 167 Mall Circle Dr. For more information, including updates on the latest puzzle scenario, follow them via their social media channels or visit 60minuteescape.com. BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2016 * 23

Food

Read more about local restaurants at

BoroPulse.com/Category/Food

ITALIAN / PIZZA: Ahart’s Pizza Garden 2476 Old Fort Pkwy.

Miller’s Grocery

EAT & DRINK

LOCAL

Support your unique restaurants, Murfreesboro. BY BRACKEN MAYO IN THE LAST EDITION of the Pulse we took a look at some of the many independent restaurants that have over the past few years. So, where are the existing local restaurants that Murfreesboro diners can currently support? Many of those new to town—and many who have lived in Murfreesboro for years, even—ask that question. They may be familiar with the Red Lobster, Burger Kings, Cheddars and Taco Bells of the world and want to discover the unique flavors of Murfreesboro but simply don’t know where to look. Chains are fine; eat there if you like. The customer usually has a good idea of what they will receive at a chain, and many welcome that consistency and familiarity. But the following list recognizes the places that offer spins on dishes found only in Murfreesboro. Check out a new one sometime. You may just find your new favorite restaurant on this list. To set some criteria, these are independent restaurants, unique to Murfreesboro. Even though Sir Pizza, Toot’s, Demos’, Whitt’s, Sam’s, Oscar’s, Camino and La Siesta are chains, they are Middle Tennessee-based, so let’s include them here. Also, many of the chain restaurants in Rutherford County are franchises owned and operated by hard-working local families. Support them too. But still, the flavors of Dairy Queen, Domino’s and Subway are certainly not unique to Murfreesboro. You can find them all over the world. Not every spot fits neatly into a particular category; “unique” is a qualifier for this collection, after all. But this piece aims to list the locally owned restaurants in town in one place. The 2016 independent restaurant landscape of the Murfreesboro area: 24 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

PHOTOS: MILLER’S BY CHRISTY SIMMONS; NOBODY’S BY SARAH MAYO

Marina’s on the Square 125 N. Maple St. Milano II 114 E. College St. Sal’s Pizza 536 N Thompson Ln Sauce 2858 S. Church St. Sir Pizza 3219 Memorial Blvd. 1902 E. Main St. 110 Barfield Crescent Rd. Spooky’s Pizza 5995 Lebanon Rd.

BARBECUE: Bob’s Barbecue 517 Cason Ln., Ste-A Rick’s BBQ 3364 Memorial Blvd. 212 Warrior Dr.

Farmer’s Family Restaurant 1958 Old Fort Pkwy.

The Alley on Main 223 W. Main St.

Fat Mo’s 1301 Memorial Blvd.

MEXICAN:

Peter D’s Restaurant 2357 Medical Center Pkwy. The Block Restaurant & Catering 123 SE Broad St. Toot’s 860 NW Broad St. 2992 S. Church St. The Curious Kitchen 1602 W. Northfield Blvd.

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR / RESTAURANT: Coconut Bay Cafe 210 Stones River Mall Blvd. Garage Bar & Sandwich Shop 405 N. Front St. Jefferson’s 1916 E. Main St.

Slick Pig BBQ 1920 E. Main St.

Nobody’s Grille 2227 Old Fort Pkwy. (Clarion Inn)

The Hoof 352 W. Northfield Blvd.

O’Possum’s 2341 Memorial Blvd.

MEAT & THREE / SOUTHERN:

Sam’s Sports Grill at Stones River Mall, 1720 Old Fort Pkwy.

B McNeel’s 215 N. Church St. City Cafe 113 E. Main St. Goodness Gracious at the Mill 5418 Murfreesboro Rd., Readyville

Blue Cactus Cantina 2805 Old Fort Pkwy. Camino Real 301 NW Broad St. / 2628 Rideout Ln. / 205 Lasseter Dr. Carmen’s Taqueria 206 W. Northfield Blvd. La Siesta 1608 NW Broad St. 1111 Greenland Dr. 2424 S. Church St. Mercados Marias 264 Heritage Park Dr. 1820 Bradyville Pike Mexiven 1706 Bradyville Pike Mi Patria Mexican Restaurant 230 Stones River Mall Blvd. Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant 2962 S. Rutherford Blvd. Oscar’s Taco Shop 1875 Memorial Blvd. 2804 Old Fort Pkwy.

THAI / LAO: International Grocery 1622 Bradyville Pike

Station Grill 2053 Lascassas Pike

Lemongrass Sushi & Thai 220 Barfield Crescent Rd.

The Boulevard Bar & Grill 2154 Middle Tennessee Blvd.

Oriental Express Laos and Thai Cuisine 1619 Bradyville Pk.

The Gavel Grill & Speakeasy 109 N. Maple St.

Pad Thai Cafe 2568 S. Church St.

Jeff’s Family Friendly Restaurant 467 S. Hancock St.

The Green Dragon Public House 714 W. Main St.

Kleer-Vu Lunchroom 226 S. Highland Ave.

Wall Street 121 N. Maple St.

Miller’s Grocery 7011 Main St., Christiana

FINE DINING / STEAKHOUSE:

Sylvan Park Restaurant 1443 NW Broad St.

CJ’s Restaurant & Catering 352 W. Northfield Blvd.

The Bangkok Thai Cuisine & Sushi 315 Robert Rose Dr.

The Fish House 1626 Middle Tennessee Blvd.

Five Senses 1602 W. Northfield Blvd.

Thai Spice Restaurant 225 N. Rutherford Blvd.

Whitt’s BBQ 105 Sulphur Springs Rd. 2898 S. Church St., Ste. A 198 Sam Ridley Pkwy., Ste. E

Parthenon Grille 1962 S. Church St.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

FAMILY RESTAURANTS: Campus Subs 1124 Old Lascassas Rd. Deezie’s Hot Chicken 452 N. Thompson Ln. Demos’ Steak and Spaghetti House 1115 NW Broad St.

Nobody’s Grille

Sabaidee Cafe 505 Cason Ln. Taste of Thai 1841 S. Church St. Thai Pattaya 810 NW Broad St. Ste 262

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City Cooking Up New Food Truck Ordinance

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

ORIENTAL: Bobo Chinese Restaurant 1312 NW Broad St. Cathay Asian Bistro 1845 S. Church St.

Far East Restaurant 1529 E. Main St. Fin Fusion Sushi Bar 2862 S. Church St. Koji Express Japanese Grill 1010 Memorial Blvd. Sushin 528 N. Thompson Ln. Wasabi Japanese Steak House 2812 Old Fort Pkwy.

GREEK / MEDITERRANEAN:

Fresko Frozen Treats

Chicago Style Gyros 535 NW Broad St.

COOL TREATS:

Garden Greek Grill 3006 S. Rutherford Blvd.

Fresko Frozen Treats 132 St. Andrews Dr.

Greek Cafe 2441 Old Fort Pkwy.

Frozen Treats/Popcorn from Mars 123 S. Church St.

Gyro Tabouli 2706 Old Fort Pkwy. Opah Greek Grill 133 James Luscinski Dr.

Karin’s Kustard & Hamburgers 470 S. Lowry St.

INDIAN:

Paletas la Desi 1679 Middle Tennessee Blvd.

Tandoor Fine Indian Cuisine 529 N. Thompson Ln.

COFFEE:

The Clay Pit 1813 Memorial Blvd.

CAJUN: Jazzmatazz Lounge & Restaurant 1824 Old Fort Pkwy.

Just Love Coffee 129 MTCS Rd. 2863 Old Fort Pkwy., Ste. F

BREAKFAST / DOUGHNUTS / SWEETS:

POLYNESIAN:

All American Cafe 2805 Old Fort Pkwy.

Omni Hut 618 Lowry St., Smyrna

Boro Town Cakes 128 N. Church St.

The Clay Pit

Donut Country 1311 Memorial Blvd. Donut Palace 1623 NW Broad St. Julia’s HomeStyle Bakery 1911 Medical Center Pkwy. Kwik Mart 315 N. Front St. Simply Pure Sweets 118 N. Walnut St. The Artful Donut 810 Medical Center Pkwy. Yum E Donuts 2486 Old Fort Pkwy.

JUICE / SMOOTHIES / HEALTH FOOD: Juice Bar 804 N. Thompson Ln. Strong Body 833 Memorial Blvd. Sunshine Nutrition Center 621 S. Church St. Vibe Nutrition 208 W. Main St.

DIVE BARS: Buster’s Place 1615 NW Broad St. Campus Pub 903 Gunnerson Ave. Gentleman Jim’s 2115 E. Main St. 1325 Greenland Dr. Handlebars 2601 E. Main St. The Boro Bar & Grill 1211 Greenland Dr. The Wheel Lounge 534 SE Broad St.

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PHOTOS COURTESY FRESKO FROZEN TREATS AND THE CLAY PIT

Chef Wang’s 1145 NW Broad St.

WITH NEW FOOD TRUCK REGULATIONS ON THE HORIZON, it’s likely Murfreesboro residents will see local and regional food trucks around the city more frequently in the near future. In July, the City of Murfreesboro announced the City Council is looking to adopt new regulations for food trucks operating within the city limits, loosening restrictions currently in place. “Looking at nearby communities, we see the creativity and excitement that the food truck industry can generate,” Assistant City Manager Jennifer Moody said in a memo to the council. “We want to work collaboratively with operators and restaurants to see how changes in the way we regulate this industry could benefit our downtown, city parks and community events.” On Aug. 15, food truck owners, local restaurant owners and members of the community attended a public stakeholders meeting to discuss the proposed regulations and offer suggestions. The new regulations look to define food trucks, locations and hours of operation, mobile food service permits and food truck rally permits. Murfreesboro residents Quinn Raines and Craig Betts, owners of a Cousins Maine Lobster truck, said that while the current food truck ordinance has caused confusion among food truck owners in the area, the proposed regulations and public meeting offered a sense of clarity. “There’s been a set of regulations on the books for years, but they were set during a time when people were setting up things such as roadside stands, which are not the same as food trucks,” Betts said. “This new ordinance offers framework to avoid problems.” The Cousins Maine Lobster truck frequents Nashville, Smyrna and Franklin each week, as well as events such as Live on the Green in downtown Nashville. In an effort to strengthen the food truck community, Raines and Betts coordinate events with other food trucks, including dates in Smyrna featuring Cousins Maine Lobster, The Brothers Burger and Two Fat Men. Raines said she’d like to see the truck serving in Murfreesboro more often—not only because they live in the area, but also because they see heavy interest from customers. “There’s not a fresh lobster place here,” Raines said. “We can bring that to the community.” She says she hopes the new ordinance will make other mobile food operators feel welcome in the area, as well. According to Betts, it’s easier under the current set of regulations for food trucks to set up shop in private business parking lots. That’s why you’ll spot Cousins Maine Lobster outside Sam’s Club or trucks like My Roots Curbside Culinary serving up street food at Mayday Brewery before you’ll see them on public property. That might change, though. The proposed draft offers a list of designated locations that include specified downtown streets and public property such as city parks and certain parking lots. In an effort to encourage food truck owners to easily seek permits, the Mobile Food Service application would require a low-cost fee at $50 for 12 months. The ordinance would also regulate the frequency of food trucks operating at private businesses, the maximum number of trucks at the same location and the amount of parking space utilized, which would be no more than 25 percent of existing spaces. Also included in the new ordinance is a food truck rally regulation, which includes the gathering of two or more trucks at the same location and time. The events—whether on public or private property—will require a separate permit. — DYLAN SKYE AYCOCK To learn more about the Proposed Food Truck Ordinance and Regulations and to read the full drafts, visit murfreesborotn.gov.

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Reviews MOVIE

WAR DOGS DIRECTED BY

Todd Phillips STARRING

Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Bradley Cooper, Ana de Armas RATED R

War Dogs had a great chance to be a scathing story on the early days of the messy Bush/ Cheney invasion of Iraq, and the ridiculous systems put in place by Cheney and the Pentagon that created these low-balling arms

SAUSAGE PARTY DIRECTED BY

Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon STARRING

Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Jonah Hill RATED R

column by NORBERT THIEMANN

facebook.com/livingroomcinema

dealers. But instead, what do we get? A bro tale of two white dudes taking on the system. Because yeah! We’ve never seen that before! Despite this story being told in a terrible way, the story itself is still fascinating. I did not know that there was a procurement system like this in play during the Iraq War that the government used for its arms deals. I definitely want to do more research on this now. The other good part of this film is Bradley Cooper. Even though his character makes no sense and I don’t even think he exists in real life at all (and if he does, I’m pretty sure he’s of a different ethnicity), it’s still nice to see Cooper, the recipient of my worst actor of 2015 award, be, well, not terrible. But,

he’s only barely in this film, and pretty much everything else here falls flat on its face. With a Miles Teller voiceover that goes throughout the entire film, it was as if War Dogs was trying to explain its story to a bunch of 2-year-olds. WB seems to have this idea that all you need to do with your musical selections is just have a bunch of pop music in your film that people recognize and you’re good. There was little thought behind any of the music, like having our first shots of the American military be with “Fortunate Son” playing in the background. Because we’ve never heard that song play behind the military before in a film, right? Guys. Seriously. Take a page out of Martin Scorsese and David O. Russell’s playbook when it comes to effectively using pop music in your film and go a bit deeper than surface level. I still don’t know how to classify this film, with an absolutely abysmal script. Is it a comedy? A satire? A drama? An action film? I have no idea. Are we supposed to hate our two frat bro “heroes” who want to take the power back and stick it to the man and have immense success until it all falls apart? I barely even understood that sentence. Kind of like this film. This was director Todd Phillips’ first foray out of comedies and into a “drama” (which is what I’ve decided to call it) and all I can say is “Wow. Go back to making comedies, please.” Because this is a story that should’ve been in Oscar talk for this year. What a wasted opportunity. — JOSEPH KATHMANN

The latest from writing duo Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg is another raunchy stoner comedy with one unique conceit: this one is animated. Certainly not the first R-rated cartoon, Sausage Party is perhaps the first to set its sights on the universally beloved Pixar Studios. Set in the grocery paradise called Shopwell, the film opens with a song that attempts to explain, in a vomitous cocktail of color and sound, that the products in Shopwell want nothing more than to be personally chosen by the Gods (humans) and taken to The Great Beyond. Some products, like Frank the hot dog (Rogen) and Brenda the bun (Wiig) have other desires as well, but when the two of them get knocked out of the cart, their journey back to their aisle sets them on a perilous adventure. Of course they’re cursing up a storm along the way. The film announces its hard R-rating, but the cognitive dissonance that is meant to carry the film dissipates quickly from overuse, like the first time Cartman said “sh*t” on TV . . . 162 times. South Park knows that vulgarity for vulgarity’s sake only goes so far (even Cartman’s potty-mouth was a commentary on censorship) and Sausage Party tries to inject

some allegorical content but stops short of skewering anyone or anything beyond surface level. Sammy Bagel Jr. (Ed Norton) is basically Woody Allen, and his constant bickering with the Middle Eastern bread Lavash (David Krumholtz) is more clever than funny. That can be said about most of the film: there’s a glut of clever ideas, but a dearth of good jokes. The best parts come in the form of visual gags, like the “brutal” shopping cart spill that echoes the opening scene of Saving Private Ryan. The true talent of Pixar is to pluck at our heartstrings. The best way for Sausage Party to succeed would have been to assimilate, to pull a Pixar, and put some pathos in an unsuspecting package. But with the half-hearted social and religious metaphors in the picture, Rogen and Goldberg stick to their comfort zone, i.e. dick jokes and dorm room epiphanies, a realm in which they usually excel. But working in a genre that generally has a message (Zootopia, WALL-E), or a strong emotional story (Up, Toy Story 3), Sausage Party’s lack of either is glaringly apparent, and the result somehow feels both overthought and half-baked. — JAY SPIGHT

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LIVING ROOM CINEMA

OUTSTANDING

AVERAGE

BELOW AVERAGE

Never to See the Light of Day Not every movie gets made, even after the labors of love have been poured upon them. An honorable mention goes to American Movie, which I have previously recommended.

Jodorowsky’s Dune (2013) is directed by Frank Pavich. After the successes of El Topo and Holy Mountain, Alejandro Jodorowsky set his sights toward the stars for his next project. He started to amass talent and resources in order to undertake the colossal project of putting Frank Herbert’s Dune onto celluloid. H.R. Giger and Salvador Dali were just two of the amazing people attached to the film.

Lost in La Mancha (2002) is directed by Keith Fulton and Louis Pepe. For several years, the great Monty Python alumnus Terry Gilliam dreamed of adapting the story of Don Quixote for film. With a group of foreign investors committed to the project, he was finally going to realize his vision. Shooting began despite setbacks, with Johnny Depp starring in one of the leading roles, until things continued to spiral downward.

AVOID AT ALL COSTS

DEAD

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Art

 SEPTEMBER ART EVENTS

Blue Raider to Blue Sky MTSU animation alum Mikki Rose contributes to Ice Age, Peanuts Movie and more. STORY BY JOHN CONNOR COULSTON

s MTSU’s semester gets underway, students are already making the animation lab on the first floor of the John Bragg Media and Entertainment Building their home away from home. The classroom’s filled with aspiring creators glued to their Mac screens, tinkering with their respective projects, all while passersby look in through the room’s four large windows to see what’s so captivating. In 2005, then-undergrad Mikki Rose was just another one of those students enamored with assignments that kept her up all hours of the night. “I spent many, many hours in that ‘fish bowl’ lab,” Rose told the Pulse while visiting MTSU’s SIGGRAPH chapter. “We’re talking a lot of hours. Sometimes overnight, sometimes early in the morning just to make sure my renders were going through.” Rose, a La Vergne High School grad, is a now a long way from Murfreesboro, as she’s currently a fur technical director for Blue Sky Studios, the Connecticut-based studio behind the Ice Age and Rio franchises and 2015’s Peanuts Movie. Being responsible for the fur on a CG wooly mammoth was the last career path she thought she’d be on while entering college as an English major and holding a job at the now-soon-to-be-shuttered Hastings. Rose loved Disney classics such as Aladdin and The Sword in the Stone, but she had never really thought animation was in the cards. “I never even thought . . . I could even work in film like that. I was just a fan,” she says. “It wasn’t (an option) until I needed a new major and new direction in life.” Rose decided to dip her toe into two fields in the Mass Communication college: animation and music business. When it came time to focus in on one area to pursue a degree, she took the animation route, despite her initial doubts it would turn into a career. “To tell you the truth, I was never sure that I was actually gonna make it as an animation artist,” Rose says. “I always thought that I’d get the degree and know what it’s like to work on that sort of stuff, but I’m probably not good enough and won’t make it. And I’ll just work at Hastings. But I guess it’s a good thing I didn’t stay working at Hastings, right?” From MT, she pursued a master’s degree at Clemson University in South Carolina. While studying there in 2007, she was hired on at Rhythm & Hues Studios, who were in the midst of relaunching Alvin and the Chipmunks for a whole new generation. They were also working on the Daniel Craig- and Nicole Kidman-starring fantasy 30 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

film The Golden Compass, an incredibly high-budget film that won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. Rose’s first credits in the professional world were resounding commercial and critical successes, respectively, and she began racking up an impressive résumé. While at R&H, Rose was a contributor to Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian and the “squeakuel” toAlvin and the Chipmunks, among others. She soon took a job at Sony Pictures Imageworks, where she began to focus on her specialties, specifically hair and cloth styling and grooming for humans and animals alike. Her work can be seen in Hotel Transylvania, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 and aspects of Alice in Wonderland and Oz the Great and Powerful that were outsourced to Sony by Disney. Her crowning achievement while at Sony came in the form of Arthur Christmas, a beautifully crafted holiday film about Santa’s goofy son. As cloth & hair technical director, she worked on the movie from the start of production and was responsible for everything from reindeer fur blowing in wind to elves’ hairstyles and characters’ fuzzy slippers. In late 2013, Rose made another studio switch to Blue Sky, a more inviting and steady work climate compared to the previous studios’ sometimes on-again-off-again project schedules. She came on during the development of The Peanuts Movie, but not as one would assume. Instead of grooming Charlie Brown, Lucy or Snoopy (or even the elusive Joe Cool), she handled vegetation details. “Anything green in that movie, that’s me,” she says with a laugh. “I don’t get to claim Snoopy or anybody, but I did all the trees.” Currently, she’s settled into life at Blue Sky and contributed fur animation to this summer’s Ice Age: Collision Course in the form of Peaches, the young mammoth voiced by Keke Palmer. Aside from working on the studios’ other upcoming projects such as 2017’s Ferdinand the Bull adaptation, she’s learned to enjoy the work, all while guiding young interns and new employees through training programs and documentation efforts. She also gives her time to SIGGRAPH, which holds national conferences to help guide young animators entering the field. “I really love the work that I do. What I love the most is finishing something. So if I’ve worked on grass for five months, finishing that and knowing that it’s done and that I’ve done a good job, and that I’ve taught other people along the way, that’s probably my favorite part.” To learn more about Mikki Rose and her film contributions, visit kidmikki.com.

MTSU BALDWIN GALLERY TO HOST PHOTOGRAPHY OF STEVE McCURRY MTSU’s Baldwin Photographic Gallery will host an exhibition of photographs from Steve McCurry through Oct. 20. McCurry has been one of the most iconic figures in contemporary photography for more than 30 years. He has created unforgettable images over six continents and numerous countries. His colorful body of work spans conflicts, vanishing cultures, ancient traditions and contemporary culture alike. His work celebrates the human element, and probably his most recognized work is his acclaimed photographic portrait “Afghan Girl.” The gallery is located in the Bragg Media and Entertainment building on MTSU campus and is open from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

GREENWAY ART FESTIVAL RETURNS TO OLD FORT PARK ON SATURDAY, SEPT. 17 Dozens of talented local artists will once again display and sell their creative work along the Murfreesboro Greenway trail on Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Old Fort Park, 916 Golf Lane, Murfreesboro, will host the 14th Annual Greenway Art Festival; over 70 artists are registered for the 2016 festival. “Last year was another record attendance for our growing Greenway Art Festival featuring talented local artists,” said Melinda Tate, Greenway Program Coordinator. “This year, we expect the quality and quantity of art to be even better.” Patrons can browse through booths of original artwork and crafts produced by some of the finest artists in Middle Tennessee. The original artwork on display will include oil paintings, acrylics, watercolors, drawings, digital art, photography, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, glassware and mixed media. The family-friendly setting along Spring Branch Creek of the Stones River includes food vendors, kids’ art activities and live music. Musical entertainment includes guitarist/ vocalist Larry Pinkerton, a local favorite, who takes the stage from 10 a.m.–noon. Americana/folk/rock trio The Coteries, from South Orange, N.J., will perform from noon–2 p.m. The Todd London Jazz Group, a trio from Nashville, will follow

from 2–4 p.m., featuring a repertoire ranging from classic jazz standards to modern jazz. Performances, admission and parking are all free. Among the many participating artists is Murfreesboro artist Dawna Kinne Magliacano, a mixed media artist, illustrator and art instructor working in a number of mediums out of her Murfreesboro studio. Magliacano’s work is featured on this year’s Greenway Art Festival poster, and her work has also been published in Incite 3: The Art of Storytelling and Incite 4: Relax Renew Restore, books which are a compilation of the best mixed media from around the world. Magliacano is currently illustrating a children’s book along with other illustration projects. All Greenway Art Festival artwork is original and created by the artists; no mass-produced, commercially manufactured work or work manufactured from kits or molds will be displayed. For more information on the Greenway Art Festival, contact Melinda Tate at (615) 893-2141 or mtate@murfreesborotn.gov. BOROPULSE.COM

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AROUND TOWN ’BORO BUSINESS BUZZ BY BRACKEN MAYO

Glenn Merchant, the owner and operator of MOXIE ART SUPPLY on Vine Street in Murfreesboro, passed away

on August 21. The 53-year-old artist touched many lives in the Murfreesboro art and business community. Friends and customers decorated the sidewalk outside of Moxie in honor of Glenn. “Thanks for coloring this world,” one tribute read. “Glenn Merchant provided such a great place for the Murfreesboro art community to purchase their supplies and attend and host art shows. He even let me host a small art show at Moxie once,” said Paul Goddard. “Moxie was my go-to place for all my art supplies while I studied graphic design at MTSU. I remember going there even after I finished college, just to continue supporting such a great local art shop. Glenn was a very kind man and always held a conversation with me while I was in his shop. It was always hard to get out the door because we would keep on talking!” The Moxie staff says they and Glenn’s wife, Angela, plan to continue running the store. Area artist Jessica Rose Maraschiello called Glenn “a kind soul, a compassionate human, and a talented artist.” “I feel fortunate to have known you and shown work in your store. I always enjoyed knowing I’d see your smiling face anytime I came into Moxie,” she posted soon after his death. “You are an amazing man and will be missed greatly by the Murfreesboro community.”

Murfreesboro barber Michael Ray plans to open his new shop, DOIN HAIR, at 447 N. Front St. in September. “Don’t settle for a simple haircut,” says Ray. “Come meet an artist who will make you his personal canvas.” Ray, who began cutting his friends’ hair while in high school, wants to go beyond just providing someone with a haircut. He specializes in precision cuts, military cuts,

razor fades, old-school pompadour cuts and hair art. He also aims to make the haircut experience a relaxing one, but says he knows his customers have little time to waste, and values turning his customers into friends. “You will leave feeling refreshed with a fantastic, unique look that is all your own,” he says. Doin Hair will include karaoke, a theater, a jukebox, lots of antiques and complimentary beer and coffee. For more information, visit doinhairbarberstyle.com or find Doin Hair Barber Style on Facebook. After numerous customers raised a ruckus in online forums over “rude” security personnel not allowing their children to play in the STONES RIVER MALL play area due to excessive noise, limited hours and other reasons (upset moms even drew up initial plans to stage a “play-in” in protest), mall management responded to complaints with firings and an apology to families. “We are making immediate and significant changes to the management team,” said Greg

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Moross, chief operating officer of Sterling Organization in a statement. “We will also be evaluating all staff and third-party contractors to ensure that the mall is a friendly and inviting place for all members of the community.” The statement went on to say that the area would remain open during regular mall hours and that families will no longer be asked to leave the play area due to noise. So now, all is well in the Stones River Mall play area, and young children may resume climbing up and jumping from the beloved possum and raccoon figures without fear of the man. STONES RIVER RECYCLING SERVICE

plans to begin recycling pick-up service to apartment complexes in September, with residential services beginning in October. They will offer curbside and doorside recycling pick-up starting at $14 per month, with no sorting required of the customer. For more information, find Stones River Recycling Service on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram or call (615) 516-3220.

 Kni Dewayne has leased the Church Street underneath radio station WGNS’s headquarters and will soon be opening BEAST MODE INK, a tattoo shop. ZAXBY’S will break ground on a new location on Fortress Boulevard near I-24 this month. The chicken-themed chain serves chicken Fingerz, chicken wings, chicken sandwiches, chicken Nibblerz, salads with chicken . . . and fried cheese, fried pickles, fried mushrooms and milkshakes.

 THE STATION THEATER, located on

Front Street in downtown Smyrna, is undergoing a renovation and will soon reopen. The old movie theater was built in 1920 and is being restored to host new and old movies, live plays, concerts and private functions. A crew has recently been working on restoring the Purity logo painted on the brick building.

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News

NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM SERIES BY BRYCE HARMON

PART II

Inside Rutherford County Department of Probation and Recovery Services “I KNOW PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN on probation—doing one crime—on probation for several years, from one thing they did years ago, and that is crazy. That’s crazy,” said Shaquilla L., a probationer in the Rutherford County Department of Probation and Recovery Services (RCDPRS) waiting room on the afternoon of June 21, 2016, almost three months after the new county-run probation department began its operations. “I want to know,” Shaquilla continued, “other than themselves, how [is the probation department] helping or benefiting anything or anyone else in any type of way? In my opinion, I feel like they should, if anything . . . be here to prevent us from doing whatever happened again, or to, you know, help us become better.” Though the profit-producing business model of Providence Community Corrections (PCC) became the active template used by PCC’s replacement, RCDPRS, which does make a profit for Rutherford County off of the supervised probation fees their probationers (folks on probation) have to pay, there have been some protocol adjustments and slight shifts of responsibility within RCDPRS, as compared to PCC. According to Tiarra Smith, who has worked for both PCC and RCDPRS, some of the RCDPRS probation officers have taken it upon themselves to supply educational opportunities. Information is now posted on the waiting room’s bulletin board showing how to acquire a GED and information from businesses hiring in the Rutherford County area that they post as probationers bring that information in to them. RCDPRS even held a job fair July 29 and Aug. 3, and now holds job interviews in their building for companies such as Kasai in Smyrna and Sumitomo in La Vergne every Wednesday from 9–1 for probationers seeking employment, according to the sign in the RCDPRS waiting room, which also states “misdemeanors are okay, and some felonies.” On top of that, because many of the misdemeanor cases running through RCDPRS are alcohol and drug-related, Smith will personally hand out a list of alcohol and drug treatment locations to the probationer upon request, specifying facilities with and without indigent services (rehabilitation treatment for people with low income), though none of the facilities are in Rutherford County. The notion to supply 34 * SEPTEMBER 2016 * BOROPULSE.COM

all of this information is not requested of the participating probation officers by the courts or anyone else. There is no more full waiting room. RCDPRS probation officers removed the clip boards that were used by probationers to sign in, unscheduled, to report to their probation officers a few weeks after RCDPRS took over. The Wild West rules of unscheduled PCC reportings on Tuesdays have been replaced by appointment books kept by the individual probation officers for different days of the week. Probationers may enjoy the comforts of a non-crowded RCDPRS waiting room as long as they don’t trim their toenails while they wait, as posted signs on the backs of the waiting room chairs caution them. Probation officers now also provide their probationers with little white cards containing case information that they can present to the appropriate probation officer during each scheduled visit, offering ease of access to the case information in the RCDPRS computer system. Probationers can present the little white cards to the Circuit Court clerk’s new payment counter in the front of the building for the clerk’s ease of access into the RCDPRS computer system, too. In this new shift of responsibility from the probation officers to the county clerks, probationers may now pay at the new Circuit Court clerk’s desk. This is located next to the entrance and is managed by county circuit court clerk Lisa Reeder, who took the job on April 1, when RCDPRS took over for PCC. Instead of probationers giving their money orders directly to their probation officers in the back offices, as was the custom at PCC, they now can make their money orders payable to “Circuit Court Clerks,” and hand them to Reeder or her assistant, Rob, anytime the probationer wants to when RCDPRS is open and within the timeframe of their court-ordered one-month, sixmonth, or 11 months and 29 days probationary period, be it on their report date or not. Probationers have to be scheduled to report with their probation officers, but not to show up and make a payment. It used to take up to two months to receive and file payment receipts from PCC probation officers, according to Beth Becker, one of the

courthouse clerks in room 201 at the Judicial Building on the square. But since Reeder gets the money orders directly to the General Sessions Clerk’s office every day, and since PCC’s privately owned filing system was replaced with the county’s currently used New Dawn filing system, proper receipt of probationer’s payments is now in real time. As a result, payments can be seen, physically and on the clerk’s computer screens, the same day that Reeder or Rob receive the money order. According to County Commissioner Robert Stevens (as reported by journalist Scott Broden), the New Dawn computer filing system shared by the General Sessions Clerk’s office and RCDPRS, and used by Reeder and Rob to file probationer’s payments of court costs and county profit probation fees, is leftover technology given to the county, along with $500,000, by New Dawn Technologies (one of three companies merged together to form Journal Technologies). That was the settlement in another lawsuit Rutherford County was involved in against New Dawn and JTI in August 2015 because the New Dawn software was deemed faulty by the county courthouse clerk’s office after a state audit by the Tennessee Department of Revenue in 2015 revealed a lack of payment of county litigation taxes from the Rutherford County Clerk’s office. At a Rutherford County Commission meeting on Aug. 18, 2016, it was concluded by Rutherford County Mayor Ernest Burgess that the General Sessions court will replace New Dawn with an improved, more efficient filing system, TnCIS (Tennessee Courts Information System) on June 30, 2017. The matter of improving the system was initiated by the efforts of Rutherford County Clerk Melissa Harrell, who oversees the finances of RCDPRS, as well as actions of the county commissioners. “[TnCIS] is the same system used in Chancery [Court]. It is not exactly up to date with technology, but it is better than what [General Sessions courts] have,” said a county employee who prefers to remain unnamed. Chancery Court has been running TnCis since 2010.

Until June 30, 2017, people court-ordered to be on probation at RCDPRS because they can’t afford to pay Rutherford County court costs, ranging from $400 to $1000 per misdemeanor case, in full on the day of their court date, will be paying Rutherford County a profit that goes into the county’s general fund, according to Rutherford County Clerk Melissa Harrell. The county makes this profit by charging the $45-per-month probation fee per probationer in their own county-run probation department. This $45 fee can be taken for up to 12 months, totaling $540, or up to 120% of the initial court costs before probation, and is taken first and foremost by RPDPRS from probationer’s payments they are obligated to give to RCDPRS every month once on probation. Any money exceeding the monthly $45 supervision cost is applied to their initial court costs before the next month’s $45 fee is applied again. Those monthly fees collected from every probationer in the county are placed into the county’s general fund (the county’s pocket) after litigation taxes are taken out, but those taxes were shown to be outstanding and unpaid by a 2015 Tennessee state audit of the previous fiscal year. New Dawn, the clerical computer software bought by the county to help the County Clerk’s office organize and file all of their paperwork was blamed for not working properly, which caused the lack of payment of their taxes to occur. Rutherford County, which still uses the faulty New Dawn software since receiving a $500,000 refund (half of what was spent on New Dawn clerical technology) after a lawsuit against that company was settled, is now collecting its money through RCDPRS’ use of New Dawn. TnCIS, the new and improved software that the mayor said would not replace New Dawn for nearly a year, has already been in use for six years by the Rutherford County Chancery Court, another court within the Rutherford County court system, just a couple of floors above the General Sessions court rooms and their Circuit Court Clerk’s office. TO BE CONTINUED . . .

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News BY SAM CLEMENS murfreesborotribune@gmail.com

COUPLE TO SELL HOME, ANGER EVERY REALTOR THEY KNOW EXCEPT ONE JAKE AND ASHLEY TISDALL ARE ON THE MOVE. The Murfreesboro couple recently purchased a new home in Garrison Cove and plan to sell their current home, much to the dismay of every real estate agent in town except the one realtor selected to sell the home. The Tisdalls plan to list their home with Mark SellsHomes with Parks, who legally changed his name from Mark Stinson to Mark SellsHomes—because the market is hot! Seriously though. Do you know what your home is worth? After listing the home for sale with SellsHomes, the Tisdalls will ultimately infuriate every other Realtor that they have ever casually come into contact with, and probably some Realtors that they haven’t even met, including: 1. Their friend from church who is a Realtor. 2. Their friend from Ashley’s book club who is a Realtor. 3. Their friend who lives down the block who is a Realtor. 4. The guy they know who says that every other Realtor in town is garbage except for him, and he would know because he is a Realtor. 5. The guy they met at a charity event who forced his card into their hand without even asking if they were interested to know what he did for a living, who happens to be a Realtor.

6. The lady who knocked on their door last Saturday to let them know that the market is doing well and they should list their home with her, who is a Realtor. 7. The Realtor camped out front of their home in a Coleman Sundome who happened to learn that they were interested in selling a few days ago and decided to stage a peaceful sit-in to earn the sale. 8. The guy with Realtor ads on the grocery cart at Kroger because he is watching. And he is also a Realtor. 9. The Realtor who kidnapped their daughter, Olivia, and is holding her ransom in exchange for the listing. 10. Bob Parks. The Tisdalls have a plan in place to weather the storm of Realtor discontent. In the meantime, Realtors interested in selling the Tisdall home are encouraged to passive-aggressively mention that the market is doing fairly well and that they would be happy to list the home, even though the Tisdalls have already selected a Realtor. UPDATE: The author of this article has now obtained a real estate license and will pursue the listing, Mark SellsHomes be damned. UPDATE PART DEUX: The author of this article saved Olivia from captivity, which puts him in strong position to obtain the listing by negotiating her safe return to the Tisdalls. This market is hot! (Relax, it’s a joke . . . kind of.) Sam Clemens is the founder and publisher of The Murfreesboro Tribune,“The Paper That Prints (Some) Facts.” According to one unnamed source, the Tribune is “the best newspaper you’ll ever read.” Contact him at murfreesborotribune@gmail.com. BOROPULSE.COM

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Opinion Sheriff's Office, Manchester Funeral Home Face Lawsuit After High-Speed Chase VIDEO FROM A HIGH-SPEED chase of a stolen Escalade that killed 28-year-old Jessica Miranda Campos on South Church is shocking. Not only did the crash claim her life, it caused debilitating injuries to Katrina Sadler, who was driving another car. The speeding vehicle allegedly driven by Garieon Simmons of Coffee County and being chased by Rutherford County Sheriff ’s officers hit Campos’ vehicle as she pulled onto South Church, then slammed into Sadler’s car. When sheriff ’s officers arrived at the crash scene, it was several minutes before they heard a crying child in Campos’ car. Fortunately the baby was OK. Unfortunately, Campos is no longer alive to care for her children. While Simmons faces vehicular homicide and eight other counts in connection with the case, the more haunting question may be whether law enforcement officers should have been chasing him on crowded I-24 and congested South Church during rush hour, even though he drove in the wrong direction on the interstate and might have tried to hit two deputies. Lawsuits filed by Campos’ family and Sadler contend Simmons, Rutherford County Sheriff ’s Office, city of Manchester, Coffee County, Manchester Funeral and Manchester

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The

STOCKARD REPORT BY SAM STOCKARD sstockard44@gmail.com

Alderman Tim Kilgore are liable for negligence in the chase. The Campos family is seeking $13 million while Sadler is asking for $2 million-plus. Their main contention is that the chase involving law enforcement officers, Simmons and Kilgore, who owns the funeral home but also has been known to take on some police duties, never should have taken place. If you put yourself in the place of Rutherford County Sheriff ’s officers, though, would you sit there and watch as Simmons flies by? Or would you chase him in the midst of 4 p.m. traffic on I-24 and onto South Church, one of the most congested roads in Murfreesboro? Sgt. Trey Nunley had to make a tough call. While some of the testimony in a General Sessions hearing on Simmons’ charges focused on whether he tried to run over two sheriff ’s officers in the I-24 median as they tried to throw down a spike strip, it also dealt with reasoning for the pursuit. Nunley testified that sheriff ’s office policy

allows for high-speed pursuits when a felony situation is involved, in this case a car theft. But when it reaches the point of being a threat to society, it can be called off, he said. In testimony, Nunley said he was “constantly evaluating” the pursuit and surroundings and decided to keep the chase going. Campos’ lawsuit, however, points out the Tennessee Highway Patrol never got involved in the chase. And Sadler’s lawsuit takes the argument a step further, claiming Nunley didn’t have his siren turned on, thus preventing Campos and Sadler from knowing a chase was taking place or that emergency traffic was approaching. Most attorneys wouldn’t want to deal with that in court, and it could work in favor of the plaintiffs. Of course, most Murfreesboro residents are so accustomed to hearing sirens, whether from fire trucks, ambulances or law officers, they’re almost immune to the sound. A review of the siren policy is probably due for every emergency services department. One complicating factor is that new Murfreesboro Police Chief Karl Durr was highly critical of the chase after witnessing a portion of it while driving on I-24. Durr’s statements weren’t part of the General Sessions hearing, nor are they alluded to in the lawsuits. Durr is asking city officials to seek state legislation limiting high-speed pursuits to cases involving violent felonies. In this situation, no violence was involved. Writing to the City Council, he pointed out 329 people are killed each year in police chases, leading many agencies to adopt stricter pursuit rules. “While our officers are highly trained, a pursuit can push the officer beyond their driving capabilities which can result in deadly crashes,” he wrote. “Police pursuits also create enormous civil liability for police officers and agencies. Equally obvious is the need to protect the public and police from unnecessary risks created by indiscriminate highspeed chases.” Murfreesboro Police policy restricts chases to cases of violent felonies, and supervisors are called on to decide whether a pursuit is worth the risk. In the Simmons pursuit, Murfreesboro Police did not get involved, even though the suspect was driving through the middle of the city. Based on the comments by Durr, an MPD officer probably would have been fired if they’d gotten into the chase. But there’s been little word from the sheriff ’s office, other than to say it feels bad about the crash. Not to second-guess Nunley or any of the other sheriff ’s personnel involved in the chase, because they were in a difficult situation. But the reality is the sheriff ’s office’s record for

lawsuits isn’t too good in the last two years. And more than likely, the county will wind up paying large sums. Maybe not $13 million, but it won’t be cheap, because someone died.

THUMBING OF NOSE

In what has become a cottage industry— news coverage of the sheriff ’s office—Robert Arnold and his buddy Joe Russell appear to be giving the middle finger to the rest of Rutherford County. Indicted on federal charges in connection with an unapproved deal to sell e-cigarettes to county jail inmates, they seem to think this thing is a joke. Even though his RUSSELL federal bond condition limits his travel to Middle Tennessee, Arnold went to Gatlinburg for a Tennessee Sheriffs’ Association conference, then to Washington, D.C., for some sort of lovefest with President Obama’s community policing people, then to a week-long affair in Orlando, Fla., to learn about communications. Arnold isn’t a threat to flee, but it makes you wonder whether the $2,500 non-secured bond is worth the time of day. Ironically, Bob Woodward of Watergate and Washington Post fame—most people have heard of the investigative reports by Woodward and Bernstein that brought President Nixon to his knees—was one of the main speakers in Orlando. No doubt, he would have been excited to know one of the attendees was an elected official indicted for allegedly profiting from his ARNOLD position of power. Anyway, many Rutherford County people are getting just a tad tired of Arnold jet-setting across the country at taxpayers’ expense. Some elected officials say he should be at home running the office and the jail. Others aren’t so certain that’s a good thing either. Furthermore, some elected officials are just simply worn out with Arnold’s hijinks. Who could blame them? While his actions are good for the news business and for some local attorneys—one of whom has made a fortune on suing the sheriff for ill-advised personnel moves— others complain he’s an embarrassment to Rutherford County. For that, we can thank the local Republican Party, which put him up for election in

2010, then elected him twice. Since that group put him in office, they should pay his legal fees for the Nashville attorney representing him in federal court. There’s no telling how much those attorneys are charging to represent him, Russell and Arnold’s uncle, John Vanderveer. Meanwhile, Russell is fighting like hell to keep his financial information secret, including his $72,000 sheriff ’s office salary, which is pretty good coin for playing shell games, in addition to monthly earnings from his company JailCigs and $30,000 from his father-in-law, a loan that might not have to be repaid. He should have considered this: If he didn’t want everyone to know how much money he’s got he shouldn’t have asked for a court-appointed attorney funded by taxpayers. On the first day in court when he and Arnold were arrested, federal attorneys told him they were going to challenge his request for a court-appointed lawyer. Since he’d just gotten out of shackles and cuffs, maybe he was already thinking about a jailbreak and just didn’t hear them. Or, maybe he thinks he can get away with putting his defense costs on the backs of taxpayers. With the number of motions his attorney has filed to keep financial information sealed, the legal fees are piling up. And considering it’s going to be Feb. 7 before they go to trial, there’s no telling how many motions and requests the attorneys are going to make. But while some folks think the trial will be delayed even further, let me remind them of this: The judge wanted the trial to be held this fall and, despite mountains of information involved, he questioned whether this is a very “complex” case. He also told the attorneys not to get pregnant or sick because it’s going to trial in February. As stated earlier, covering the sheriff ’s shenanigans is a cottage industry. But it’s getting to the point of being downright ridiculous, not funny.

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Sports Stockstill and Son Ready for 2016 Season, Blue Raiders Open Season Sept. 3 PEOPLE OF MURFREESBORO: Last year this writer implored you to set aside a couple hours on Saturday to see your Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders play. How did you respond? You filled Floyd Stadium to a meager 55.9 percent capacity, which ranked 109th in the nation among 128 teams. So, what did you miss? You missed an offense that broke school passing records in every major statistical category. You missed a freshman quarterback in Brent Stockstill, who shattered nearly every school single-season passing record on his way to being named Conference USA Freshman of the Year and Second-Team Freshman All-American byAthlon Sports. You missed seeing a freshman wide receiver named Richie James shatter nearly every single-season receiving record on his way to being named

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BLUE RAIDER SPORTS

to the USA Today Freshman STOCKSTILL All-America team. You missed senior wide receiver Franklin taking the helm of Ed Batties setting a new BY the offense, it surely would record for single-season GREG give Coach Stock some peace touchdown receptions. Last, CRITTENDEN of mind even if he did buy into but not least, you missed Kevin the idea of a sophomore slump. Byard breaking the school record Franklin briefly served as offensive for career interceptions, which was coordinator for MT in 2009. He most recently capped off by his being drafted by the Titans served a three-year stint holding the same title in the third round of the NFL Draft. at the University of California. During that stint, Do you see how much you missed? Don’t Franklin elevated the Cal offense from ranked make the same mistake this year. in the bottom 30 nationally to a top 20 ranking. While Byard and Batties are gone, Stockstill While topping the statistical numbers and James return for their sophomore seasons, from 2015 may be a high order, every player and head coach Rick Stockstill, for one, is not and coach echoes the same sentiment. concerned about a sophomore slump. They are more concerned about letters than “I ain’t worried about that one bit,” Stocknumbers, and they have their sights set on still said. 13 W’s this season. With widely renowned offensive guru Tony

Make no mistake, however, this team will move the ball. If a high-powered offense isn’t enough to pique your interest, then how about a little hometown flavor? Brent Stockstill will share the backfield this season with fellow Murfreesboro native I’Tavius Mathers. Mathers starred at Blackman, where he achieved four-star status as a recruit. He spent his first three years at Ole Miss, where he was used sparingly but always produced in his spots. “I think it’s pretty neat,” said the elder Stockstill. “With I’Tavius and Brent playing, come support your guys. Come to the game. You’ve watched these guys grow up. These are your homegrown guys, come support them!” The MTSU Blue Raiders open the 2016 season at home at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, against Alabama A&M; they will play road games the following two Saturdays against Vanderbilt and Bowling Green before returning to Murfreesboro for a Saturday, Sept. 24 contest against Louisiana Tech. For tickets and more information, visit goblueraiders.com.

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Come on Titans, Get it Together This Year for Me-Ma! THE TRAIN DADDY IS BACK, bringing sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk to you, the loyal reader. It is nearly time to kick off the NFL season, and that means one thing as far as I’m concerned: Titans Football and the Me-Ma, one hell of a combination. It’s a Me-Ma special, folks—keep on reading, and if you don’t read all the way through, I dare say you’re unpatriotic. Speaking of unpatriotic, NFL quarterback (or perhaps I should say washed-up, bitter backup) Colin

SPORTS

TALK

COLUMN BY “Z-TRAIN”

titanman1984yahoo.com

Kaepernick refuses to stand up for the national anthem prior to games. Colin Kaepernick stated, “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people.” Huh? Get ready for the backlash, Colin; you will be booed at stadiums across the country this year, if you still have a job. Men and women of all races have

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From left: Z-Train, Jeff Batson, The Me-Ma and Scott Batson

died defending what that flag stands for, giving their lives so a childish brat like Colin Crap has the right to make $20 million a year playing with balls. Enough of all that nonsense, it’s time for the feature presentation. Ladies and gentleman, boys and girls, children of all ages, the Train Daddy proudly brings to you the main topic of the article, The Me-Ma! That’s right, a true patriot, and the greatest Tennessee Titans fan to ever live! To be a patriot in New England means to be a cheater. To be a patriot in Tennessee means to be loyal to the Titans and to live by the 5 F’s: Faith, Family, Football, Food and Friends. Some people organize the 5 F’s in different orders but I like this order. I get that I put Football ahead of Food. If things get real bad you can boil down the pigskin, throw some leaves and acorns in the pot, and make a stew. I’ve loved my nine years writing for the Murfreesboro Pulse; any loyal reader knows very well who the MeMa is. I have done multiple articles detailing her greatness. The Me-Ma, while not technically my grandmother, might as well be family, being such an inspiration to me. She is a mother to three, a grandmother to five and a great-grandmother to a whopping 10 little ones. The Me-Ma is grandmother to Scottie B and Young Jeezy Batson, my brothers from another mother. I was 14 years old when introduced to the MeMa; today I am a 31-year-old man, and time seems to slip by faster and faster as the years pile up. I have learned that laying blame and complaining have no purpose. Hold onto every moment you have with your loved ones. I tell you honestly, the Me-Ma is an inspiration, a woman who loves the Titans, a woman who has her own special Titans twostep dance that gives juju to the Titans and brings luck. Most of all, she is a woman who loves her family dearly. Let me enlighten you as to what a Titans Sunday at the Me-Ma’s house entails. Prior to friends and family arriving, the Me-Ma is up early getting everything in order. It’s simple but it’s tradition; the Me-Ma gets to work

making her famous sauce—that’s right! Huge chunks of ground beef, tomatoes, spices and secrets, all thrown in the pot and creating the famous soupy sauce we all love so much. Boil some noodles, toss the salad, toast the garlic bread and sweeten the tea; it’s a meal for royalty. That’s it, folks. As I said, the 5 F’s make the perfect party. Faith, Family, Football, Food and Friends. It’s always fun to reminisce on the good old days of McNair, George, Mason and Wycheck, I use to dominate people in the old-school Madden video game with those four players alone. The Titans had some great players— The Freak, Bishop, Bullock and Bruce Matthews—in a time when greatness was expected. But we move onto a new generation of football and players. The Titans have their new face of the franchise, Marcus Mariota. The kid is composed in the pocket, he keeps his eyes downfield and he has the release of Jesse James, a true gunslinger. He also has happy feet, a true mobile quarterback. He has all the skills to become an elite player. The only beef I have with Marcus is his lack of judgment in protecting himself. If you run, get down, boy! Marcus needs to stay healthy this season and he has the perfect opportunity to do so in Coach Mularkey’s system. Old-school, baby! The offensive line has been revamped and Coach Mularkey is laying a foundation down for a run-first offensive in a passfirst league. Marcus will still get his chances. But with a run-first approach, Marcus will remain healthy and the coaches will have more opportunities to display his skill without overexposing or forcing Marcus’s hand. When talking to fans I have noticed a general consensus. Fans are ecstatic about the prospect of this season’s run game, with Murray and Henry as a one-two punch. They’re excited about the growth of the quarterback and offensive line. It seems most Titans fans are up in the air with the receiving corps. The Titans surprised many with the recent release of Dorial GreenBeckham. The huge receiver had been making encouraging strides towards the end of last season, but clearly some-

thing was going on behind the scenes. Forget about Dorial, we have a Sharpe receiver now. Experts are stating Ta’Jae Sharpe very well could be one of the best route runners in the NFL. The rookie out of UMass is already Marcus’s favorite target. Fantasy football has taken notice, and he very well could end up a rookie of the year candidate, a breakout player! Both Sharpe and Rishard Matthews have larger frames. The Titans also added a possible hall-of-fame veteran receiver Andre Johnson, who still has some juice, and definitely has some expert advice and leadership skills. I reckon the speed and quick routes will be run by Harry Douglas. I have no clue where Justin Hunter and Kendall Wright fit in. Also, let’s not forget the Titans have a tight end who was the best player on the field last season and led all tight ends in the league in receptions. Running back DeMarcco Murray is a top-notch professional. He led the league in rushing only two years ago, and was able to rest last season due to Chip Kelly being an idiot and not utilizing Murray correctly. Murray is fresh! Then we add Heisman winner Derrick Henry to the mix, a beast in size and on the field. Literally either of these players could be the workhorse and get the job done alone. Nonetheless, they seem to jive together and I am pretty sure Mularkey has created the most feared one-two punch in the league . . . and that’s saying something! Once again, let me show my love to the Me-Ma. I dedicate this season to you, as I know Scott and Jeff already have done. It’s a great honor and it means you, my dear, are the lucky charm! Me-Ma told me this past summer that if she could make it to the start of the Titans season she would be a happy Me-Ma. And here we are. Your health may be failing you, but you will never be forgotten. Every time I watch a Titans game from now to the end of my days, I will think of you. You have been a blessing to me and, I know, to your family. I see the way your great-grandchildren look at you. Little Daylan and Alexis and all the other grandkids love you dearly. You and I have the same birthday, you taught me how to play three-card poker in Tunica and you have showed me what it is to combine family and football into one happy gathering. And that makes you the Me-Ma. Love you!

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