September 2020 Murfreesboro Pulse by The Murfreesboro Pulse

INSIDE

PATIO DINING GUIDE / MTSU FOOTBALL / BEAR CRAWLS / STEERED STRAIGHT / GREENWAY ART / AND MORE! CELEBRATING 15 YEARS: 2006–2020 SEPTEMBER 2020

VOL. 15, ISSUE 9 / FREE

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

MTSU Alum ERIC PASLAY Releases New Album, Videos IN MUSIC SKYLAR GREGG / BRIANA DOMENICA FIVESENSE FARM BAND FEST LYNCHBURG MUSIC FESTIVAL JULIE & JOHN PENNELL / AND MORE!

Virtual Event Raises Funds for Mobile Mammography Unit PAGE 6

Feast on Fish and Veggies at Hawaiian-Inspired Poke Fun PAGE 18

MASK DEBATE CONTINUES Local School Boards Force Students to Cover Their Faces PAGE 26

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Two enchiladas with f t Bee a r D 1 r o f 2 rice and beans—$5.99 $3.25 THURSDAYS DAY cher 206 W. Northfield Blvd. EVERY argarita Pit House Margarita M House Pitcher—$10.99 615-848-9003 $14.99 her Beer Pitcher—$5.99 c t i P r Bee The One and Only Carmen’s Taqueria $7.99 HOURS: Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–8 p.m. 3 –1 0

Contents

ON THE COVER: ERIC PASLAY PHOTO BY ERIC ADKINS

12 FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

6 Events

NICE GUY

CALENDAR Virtual Wine Around the Square, Hammer Down for Habitat, Wings of Freedom, Night Hikes and more

MTSU alum Eric Paslay releases new album and videos.

LET’S SIT OUTSIDE

60+ options for outdoor dining at Murfreesboro and Smyrna restaurants.

8 Sounds

CONCERTS Dave Massey, Barnyard Stompers, Mixtape, The O’Donnells, Revelry and more

STEERED STRAIGHT

New book, Table Talks, encourages having conversations with children topics. about important topics

MUSIC NOTES Lynchburg Music Fest, FiveSense Farm Band Fest, Julie and John Pennell, Fulton Lee, Briana Domenica

PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION

Murfreesboro couple writes new book on marriage and parenting.

14 Reviews

MASK DEBATE CONTINUES

ALBUM Skylar Gregg

Local school boards force students face. to know their place, cover their face

Publisher/Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo

18 Food REVIEW Poke Fun

20 Art

EXHIBIT Greenway Art Fest  goes virtual for 2020

26 News

BUSINESS BUZZ Clean Eatz, Firehouse Subs, TJ’s Donuts, Local Taco, Taco Station, Huntington Learning Center, Grandy’s and more

Opinion LIVE . . . WELL Get maximum mileage. BUSINESS MOMENTUM Online professional networking opportunities

MOVIE Spinster

Art Director: Sarah Mayo

Contributors:

Blaine Little

Copy Editor: Steve Morley

Melissa Coker

Zach Maxfield

Michael DeLeon

Jay Spight

Jennifer Durand

Andrea Stockard

Laura Lindsay

Phil Valentine

Advertising: Jared Stuart

PHIL VALENTINE Reaction to COVID puts the virus into slow motion.

Sports BLUE RAIDER FOOTBALL MTSU opens football season at Army, schedules two games against Troy in 2020. FITNESS Work every muscle in the body with variations on a bear crawl. SPORTS TALK Tannehill needs a history lesson, no fans at Titans games in September.

Copyright © 2020, The Murfreesboro Pulse, 714 W. Main St., #208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. Proudly owned, operated and published the first Thursday of each month by the Mayo family; printed by Franklin Web Printing Co. The Pulse is a free publication funded by advertisers. Views expressed in the Pulse do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. ISSN: 1940-378X

714 W. Main St., Suite 208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 • 615-796-6248 To carry the PULSE at your business, or to submit letters, stories and photography: bracken@boropulse.com

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WITH GREAT CHANGE COMES GREAT OPPORTUNITY. Life and society may look a little different this year, but I predict a variety of new businesses, concepts and models will arise from the minds of the American entrepreneurs. What they may be exactly . . . I don’t know. The new bunch of driven and creative innovators will come up with all of that, but those who figure out the new approach or product or service and how to sell during this time may be greatly rewarded. I hope you’ve been catching up on your music, reading, movies and games lately. I don’t think I could ever get bored with Chopin, Connect 4, my family, playoff hockey, chess and a guitar. Learn something new with your kids. Take some time to sketch or paint or finish a project at home. Have you cooked anything new this year? Bracken Jr. suggests that I should prepare lobster thermidor. It sounds delicious, but a good deal of trouble and not a huge amount of meat. We have been making some fine pizzas at home. He will show you how, on the Bracken Mayo Jr. YouTube channel. That homemade crust takes a little time as well, but he will eat the pizzas—not sure if he would try the lobster thermidor. Zach (a.k.a. the Z-Train) suggests preparing a nice beef Wellington. The Murfreesboro area has begun getting back into a few local concerts and events. Gallagher Unplugged and Ridenour Studios are hosting some live music this month. Americana Sundays at Hop Springs continue with excellent talent. Hank’s keeps a full schedule of local performers. Enjoy outdoor music in Wartrace or out at FiveSense Farm over the coming weeks. The Lynchburg Music Fest offers a weekend of camping and country music. Trivia has returned to Nacho’s. And MTSU football is on track to begin soon. That stadium has been keeping fans safe for years and operating under 25 percent capacity for quite some time. Ahead of its time. Seriously though, go Blue Raiders! Shawn Wright joins the Murfreesboro City Council after the August elections. Wright spoke against the council raising property taxes last year, and the voters recognized this. A few million miles away we have a Perseverance rover and drone heading for Mars. It should arrive at the red planet in February. The Earthlings still plan to send humans out there, but still a decade or so before boots will be on the ground. Prepare for some close-up images of Titan, the largest moon of Saturn, but it looks to be about 2034 before a drone will arrive there. It is something to look forward to, though! Keep on doing what you can do during this Great Suppression. Treat everyone right and love your neighbor, but don’t take nonsense from anyone. Exercise that spirit of discernment. Know the truth, be strong, stand firm. The Mayos should have some big news by next month! Peace, BRACKEN MAYO Publisher/Editor in Chief

Events

CALENDAR / SEPTEMBER 2020

BY ANDREA STOCKARD in Tennessee. This program would be great for college students concentrating on life sciences, young adults or people just interested in the snakes that call Middle Tennessee home. Enjoy a colorful presentation and get a chance to see a live snake up close. Admission is free. For more information, contact 615-217-3017 or efann@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 1–5 HUMMINGBIRDS AND POLLINATORS! Visit the Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) Sept. 1–5 for several impromptu programs about hummingbirds, migratory birds and pollinators for ages 8 and up. Admission is free. For more information, contact 615-2173017 or efann@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 11 “NO SHOW” PARTY

SEPT. 5 YOGA AT THE ISLAND Yoga is a great way to wind down, especially outdoors in nature. Meet at the beautiful Gateway Island (1875 W College St.) on Saturday, Sept. 5, at 9 a.m. for a free community yoga session. Yoga focuses on improving balance and flexibility while at the same time reducing stress. Beginning and intermediate levels ages 13 and up are welcome. For more information, contact bjohnson@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 8–OCT. 16 DAY WITHOUT WATER The Murfreesboro Water Community Affairs Division asks all high school students to help bring awareness to the value of water with the Imagine a Day Without Water video contest running Sept. 8 through Oct. 16. Students produce, film and edit a 30–60-second video that represents the importance of water and the value it has in our everyday lives, including at least one of three themes: the value of water, water and wastewater infrastructure and/ or imagine a day without water. The best video for each grade level (grades 9–12) is chosen by a selection committee and rewarded with a $100 Visa gift card. In addition, one teacher whose class submits one collaborative video entry is selected by the selection committee to win a $100 Visa gift card for their classroom. A total of $500 in prizes is awarded. To apply, visit murfreesborotn.gov/iadww. For more information, contact 615-890-0862 (Ext. 3030) or sseibert@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 9 & 23 RAPTOR RHAPSODY Have you ever looked an owl in the eye, glared at a red-tailed hawk up close, or checked out a falcon’s wings? Get up close and personal with a live bird of prey and learn about these master predators of the

SEPT. 11 AND 25 WHAT’S UP NIGHT HIKES Late summer nights are great for spotting owls, bats, frogs and insects, discovering glowing eyes and finding other fascinating critters that are active at night. Visit the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) for discovery under the night sky on Fridays, Sept. 11 and 25, and Oct. 16, from 7–8 p.m. All ages are welcome. The cost is $3 per person or $10 per family. Reservations are required by contacting 615-217-3017 or efann@murfreesborotn.gov. sky with presentations and photo opportunities next to live birds at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). All ages are welcome Wednesdays, Sept. 9 and 23, at 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, contact 615-217-3017 or dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 10 WATER FUN Come out to Gateway Island (1875 W. College St.) for some water fun Thursday, Sept. 10, from 4–6 p.m. Make a pool noodle sailboat to float in water and race with others. Take your boat home with you for more fun at home. Registration is required by calling 615-893-2141. Space is limited and the fee is $5. For more information, contact aacla@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-893-2141.

SEPT. 10 COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE MTSU’s annual Battle of the Branches community blood drive returns Thursday, Sept. 10, from noon–6 p.m. at the North Boulevard Church of Christ (1112 N. Rutherford Blvd.). The effort will help the local American Red Cross chapter collect blood and save lives. Co-sponsored by

the Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center at MTSU, the MTSU Red Cross Club and the Department of Health and Human Performance, participants can vote for their favorite U.S. military branch to thank active-duty and retired military members. Each donor receives a free T-shirt and a coupon for a free haircut from SportsClips. Every donor also gets a free COVID-19 antibody test during the visit. For more information, visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code MTSU, or call 1-800-Red-Cross or 615-713-6267. Walk-in donors also are welcome. Save time by visiting redcrossblood.org/rapidpass beforehand and completing the questionnaire.

Charity Circle distributes funds to nine ongoing Rutherford County nonprofits: Child Advocacy Center, Community Helpers of Rutherford County, Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault, Doors of Hope, Good Shepherd Children’s Home, Ann Campbell Early Learning Center, NOURISH Food Bank, Special Kids Therapy & Nursing Center and The Journey Home. Each Charity Circle fundraiser continues as a “no show” party on their originally scheduled dates. September’s event is a tailgate party featuring Domestic Violence Center and Doors of Hope on Sept. 11. Donations can be made at charitycirclemboro.org.

SEPT. 12 2020 VIRTUAL BACK TO SCHOOL DASH The 2020 Virtual Back to School Dash is a 5K/10K race benefiting the City Schools Foundation. Participation helps The City Schools Foundation gain financial support in the areas of science, math, art and financial parity for the students of Murfreesboro. The 5th annual Back to School Dash, presented by Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics, kicks off Saturday, Sept. 12, as participants run at their own pace and own place. Registration is $20 and includes a T-shirt and swag for each participant. For more information or to register, visit cityschools.net/departments/foundation.

SEPT. 11

SEPT. 12

SNAKES: MYSTERIES IN NATURE

BIRDING 101

Introduce yourself to the world of snakes at Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Friday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m. Ages 10 and up learn the natural history of snakes as they entered the new world and populated the Southeast including the volunteer state. Discuss behavioral and community ecology, biodiversity and conservation of snakes

Learn birding techniques, bird identification skills and take a short walk around the trails at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 9–11 a.m. Bring a bird book, a small notebook and binoculars (some can be borrowed onsite). All ages are welcome. For more information, contact 615-2173017 or emoorman@murfreesborotn.gov. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 BOROPULSE.COM

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

SEPT. 12 HENRY HORTON HIKE Explore Tennessee’s amazing state park system with The Hickory Ridge Loop at Henry Horton State Park, a 1.5–mile dirt trail rated easy to moderate. Sinkholes and cedar glades are just a few cool features along this interpretive hike. Ages 7 and up are invited (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult) on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 5 p.m. Meet at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). The cost is $5. For more information, call 615-217-3017.

SEPT. 19 VIRTUAL WINE AROUND THE SQUARE Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation’s 9th annual Wine Around the Square will go virtual for the first time. The celebration will be live-streamed between 5:30–7 p.m. from downtown Murfreesboro and will include a keynote speaker, live music, interactive demonstrations, and appearances from many beloved community members. Proceeds of this year’s event will provide the salary for one breast health nurse navigator at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford and will partially fund a new mobile mammography coach outfitted to bring mammograms and other breast health resources to women in Rutherford, Davidson and 24 nearby counties. Approximately 40 percent of the women Saint Thomas serves each year are uninsured or underinsured, and the mobile mammography coaches provide free resources for a diverse group of Tennessee women. These coaches provide screenings on the campuses of many large area employers. Individuals who make a donation of $25 or more to the 2020 Wine Around the Square project will receive a custom wine glass packed with discounts to local businesses. Last year, Wine Around the Square raised $230,000 in support of breast health resources for Middle Tennessee women. Through its Power of Pink fund, the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation has raised more than $1.9 million over the past decade. The Mission in Motion is an ongoing effort set forth by Ascension Saint Thomas to increase access to breast

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health services especially for the poor and vulnerable. This initiative is made possible through a mobile mammography coach that travels throughout Middle Tennessee and serves all women regardless of insurance status. “What I love about the Power of Pink is how they support women through the entire process. It is terrifying for any woman to hear that their mammogram results came back abnormal and they need diagnostic followup. It’s especially terrifying when they don’t know how they are going to pay for it,” says Lori Ward, mobile health practice manager with Saint Thomas Medical Partners. Need has also been identified for women who are insured but who cannot afford the time away from work for screenings. The mobile coach works with corporations to provide onsite screenings, potentially reducing the time for a woman to have a screening from three hours (including drive-time) to approximately 15 minutes. The Foundation has a goal of purchasing a second coach with state-ofthe-art 3-D mammography, and updating the existing coach’s equipment. Also part of the 2020 fundraising efforts, the first-ever Wine Around the Square Virtual 5K will also benefit the Power of Pink Fund. Participants agree to run or walk a 5K on their own time between Sept. 14 and 19 and all who register will receive a shirt and medal. All proceeds from the 2020 Wine Around the Square virtual events will support the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation’s Power of Pink Fund and this “Build the Bus” campaign. For more information on how to donate and to see a video with an inside look of the mobile mammography coach, visit winearoundthesquare.net.

SEPT. 12 WINGS OF FREEDOM FISH FRY The Rotary Club of Smyrna presents the 18th Annual Wings of Freedom Fish Fry & Classic Car Cruise-In to support the community and many nonprofit organizations on Saturday, Sept. 12. This year, the fish fry is a drive-through experience featuring a packaged dinner of the signature Club catfish with sides that are fresh and ready to go. This event honors WWII and Korean War veterans. With the support of the Town of Smyrna, local businesses and fish fry sponsors help the Rotary Club build an all-inclusive Freedom Playground, a playground for people of all ages and abilities, at Lee Victory Park. For more information, visit wofsmyrna.com.

SEPT. 17 YOUNG LIFE CLASSIC The 2020 Young Life Murfreesboro Classic golf tournament at Champions Run Golf Course (14262 Mt Pleasant Rd., Rockvale) presents players with an opportunity to play a challenging round of golf while having fun with their team. Registration and lunch begin at noon with a 1 p.m. tee time. For more information, visit boroyounglife.com/golf.

SEPT. 18 ADULT KAYAK FLOAT Join Outdoor Murfreesboro for a river float enjoying the beauty and wildlife along the way on Friday, Sept. 18, at 4:30 p.m. Space is limited, and reservations are required at murfreesboroparks.com. All equipment and instruction is provided. The cost is $8. Location is to be determined the week of the float (based on water levels). For more information, contact outdoormurfreesboro@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-217-3017.

SEPT. 19 CARDBOARD BOAT REGATTA Join in the fun with your own cardboard boat or spend the day watching captains and crews race across the Sports*Com Outdoor Pool (2310 Memorial Blvd.) before springing a leak in the Regatta event taking place on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 10 a.m. 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. 19. For more information, contact csaffel@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-895-5040.

SEPT. 19 HAMMER DOWN FOR HABITAT The Rutherford County Area Habitat for Humanity presents a motorcycle poker run on Saturday, Sept. 19, beginning at Rutherford County Habitat for Humanity (850 Mercury Blvd.). Registration starts at 8 a.m. with the run at 8:30 a.m. This 100-mile-plus motorcycle poker run through beautiful Tennessee countryside helps raise money to build a Habitat house and raise awareness of the need of affordable housing for Rutherford County families. Travel to Woodbury and Watertown before arriving at Hop Springs Beer Park for lunch, entertainment and a prize event from noon–2:30 p.m. Car and car clubs are welcome. This year’s special guest is Kevin Tetz, former host of DIY Network’s Classic Rides and Spike Network’s TRUCKS! and Power Nation. Enjoy a live concert from country entertainer Rick Monroe. For more information, contact melissa@rchfh.org or 615-603-5395 or visit rchfh.org/hammer-down.

SEPT. 19 BLAZE WARRIOR CHALLENGE 5K The Blaze Warrior 5K run/walk helps raise funds for the Blackman High School (3596 Blaze Dr.) JROTC Program and helps build a multi-purpose building onsite for students. The 5K run/walk begins 7:30 a.m., and the one-mile fun run for kids kicks off at 7:45 a.m. Strollers and pets are approved. Runners and walkers are both welcome. For more information and to register, visit runsignup.com.

SEPT. 19–OCT. 2 VIRTUAL GREENWAY ART FESTIVAL Visit murfreesborotn.gov/culturalarts for a free downloadable booklet for the Virtual Greenway Art Festival from Sept. 19–Oct. 2. Festival planners are committed to

supporting the hard work and creativity reflective of the Greenway Art Festival participants. The booklet provides samplings of the artists’ work, artist bios and links to their e-commerce sites. For more information on the Greenway Art Festival, contact lbrowning@murfreesborotn.gov or visit murfreesborotn.gov/201/cultural-arts.

SEPT. 20 BORO YOGA FEST MINI Boro Yoga Fest is now Boro Yoga Fest Mini an outdoor community event on Sunday, Sept. 20, from 9–11 a.m. at Gateway Island (1875 W College St.). Admission is free. For more information, visit boroyogafest.com.

SEPT. 21–25 FALL SCIENCE CAMP The Wilderness Station’s Fall Science Camp is a fun-filled week of learning for homeschool students age 8–12, Sept. 21–25, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Cover curriculum standards in the fields of chemistry, biology, ecology, astronomy and more. Participate in typical camp experiences like games, hiking, bonfires and s’mores. The cost is $75. For more information, contact 615-217-3017 or efann@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 24 MACRAME WALL HANGING Make a custom handmade macramé hanging at Gateway Island (1875 W. College St.) on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Registration is required by calling 615-893-2141. Space is limited. For more information on the class, contact aacla@murfreesborotn.gov.

SEPT. 26 NATURE PAINTING The Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) features local artist Bobbie Ventura leading a class on painting a beautiful nature scene on canvas for ages 10 and up (under 13 must be accompanied by an adult) on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m.–noon. All supplies and instruction are provided. The cost is $15. For more information, call 615-217-3017.

SEPT. 27 VETERANS COOKOUT CommuniServe is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide funding for veterans and their spouses otherwise unable to afford home care. CommuniServe hosts a free Veterans Appreciation Cookout for all veterans and their immediate family to show gratitude for their service

on Sunday, Sept. 27, from 12:30–3:30 p.m. at Mt. Moriah Lodge #18 (1206 Southeast Broad St.). Non-veterans must purchase a ticket for $10. Reservations are required. Even if you cannot attend, the option to sponsor the meal of a veteran for a $10 donation is available. All donors are listed at the registration table unless they wish to remain anonymous. Purchase tickets for the CommuniServe Veterans Cookout on eventbrite.com, or for more information, call 615-410-2293 or visit communiservetn.org.

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS ADULT COED VOLLEYBALL The Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department offers both competitive and recreational coed volleyball for players ages 16 and up. The competitive league plays at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) Thursday nights year-round along with the recreational league that plays at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Mercury Blvd.) on Monday nights; starting times vary depending on the number of teams. Generally, players enter with established teams, but efforts are made to assist free agents in finding a team. The cost is $4 per player per visit or premium pass. For more information, contact 615907-2251 or shull@murfreesborotn.gov.

TUESDAYS GREENWAY CLEAN-UP Help the Guardians of The Greenway keep the greenway clean Tuesdays in September at 9 a.m. Trash pickers, bags and gloves are provided for volunteers. All ages are welcome. For more information, contact apool@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-217-3017. Sept. 1: Cannonsburgh Trailhead Sept. 8: Manson Pike Trailhead Sept. 15: General Bragg Trailhead Sept. 22: Thompson Lane Trailhead

TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS RC FARMERS MARKET The Lane Agri-Park Community Center (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) continues the Rutherford County Farmers’ Market every Tuesday and Friday morning from 7 a.m.– noon with vendors from over 20 Middle Tennessee counties selling a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, baked and canned goods, flowers, plants and more. Classes are also offered to the general public every market day at 9 a.m. Topics range from sustainable gardening, cooking, food preservation, crafts and environmental education. For

 Send community event information to CONTACT@BOROPULSE.COM

more information, contact 615-898-7710, 615-898-7999 or atuggle@utk.edu.

WEDNESDAYS BASKETBALL LEAGUE Sports*Com Adult Basketball League (2310 Memorial Blvd.) is a great way for adult athletes to stay in shape, socialize and play basketball. The league offers full-court games with trained officials Wednesdays at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Teams interested in participating may contact 615-907-2251 or amay@murfreesborotn.gov. A list of interested individuals is kept, and efforts are made to assist players find a team. The cost is $4 per player per visit or premium pass.

WEDNESDAYS BORO2SQUARE RUNNERS Boro2Square Runners is a running group for individuals interested in running and socializing with other runners. Weekly runs begin at 6 p.m. each Wednesday, starting from the Boulevard Bar and Grill, 2154 Middle Tennessee Blvd. Distances covered are 3–5 miles, with runners of all paces welcome to participate. For more information, visit facebook.com/boro2square.

THURSDAYS YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CLASS Bump, set and spike as qualified coaches give instructions on every aspect of the game. From beginners to advanced, youth volleyball players ages 8–15 can refine their skills in both practice and game situations Thursdays at Sports*Com (2310 Memorial Blvd.) from 4:30–6 p.m. Class space is limited, so call 615-907-2251 to reserve a spot. For more information, contact shull@murfreesborotn.gov.

SATURDAYS MAIN STREET MARKET Visit the Main Street Saturday Farmers Market around Murfreesboro’s courthouse square with more than 50 food vendors offering fresh vegetables, homemade cakes and pies, beef, pork, chicken, farm-fresh eggs, newly-cut flowers, jams and jellies and more every Saturday from 8 a.m.–noon.

SATURDAYS SMYRNA FARMERS MARKET The Smyrna Depot Farmers Market runs 8 a.m.–12 p.m. each Saturday through Sept. 19 near the Historic Train Depot in downtown Smyrna (98 Front St.). Find fresh produce, homemade baked goods, cookies, candies, crafts and more. For more information, contact 615-336-1347 or vendors@carpeartista.com.

THROUGHOUT SEPT. WINTER CLOTHING AND FOOD DRIVE Help the community this winter by donating coats, gloves, hats and other winter clothing items alongside canned and nonperishable food items during the months of September and October. Winter wear and food can be dropped off at Bradley Academy Museum & Cultural Center (415 S. Academy St.) Tuesday–Friday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. All the items collected at the end of the drive will be donated to a local shelter. Winter clothing of any size is greatly appreciated. For more information, contact vstembridge@murfreesborotn.gov or 615-962-8773.

THROUGHOUT SEPT. HARRY POTTER MARATHON Not only is Premiere 6 once again offering daily movies, but you can also catch a Harry Potter movie marathon every Saturday morning through Oct. 17. Shows starts at 10 a.m. each Saturday. Tickets are $5 and include a 16-ounce drink and a choice of popcorn or candy. For tickets and showtimes, visit murfreesboromovies.com.

THROUGHOUT SEPT. MTSU BUTTON CAMPAIGN The MTSU Button Campaign encourages students to get involved with MTSU. Students can get a collectible button by attending campus events, athletic games and meetings with advisors. For more information, visit mtsu.edu/buttons. Sept. 1 – Volunteer Fair Sept. 3 – Back to Business Courtyard Bash Sept. 3 – Crash the Commons Sept. 8 – Student Organization Fair and Bash the Rec Sept. 11 – 9/11 Remembrance Sept. 12 – Future Alumni Tailgate Sept. 17 – Rep Your Roots Sept. 19 – Freshmen Walk Sept. 24 – Hispanic Culture Night Oct. 3 – Homecoming Football Game vs. Western Kentucky University

OCT. 5 LADIES FALL EXPO Join the Ladies Fall Expo for a fun, free shopping event at Lane Agri-Park Community Center (315 John Rice Blvd.) Saturday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. featuring tons of vendors including LuLaRoe, Scentsy, Handmade Candles, Doterra, Mary Kay and Middle T Smoked Meats food truck. For more information, find Lane Agri-Park Community Center on Facebook. BOROPULSE.COM

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Sounds

Read more about local music at

boropulse.com/category/music

MTSU alum Eric Paslay releases new album, videos BY MELISSA COKER

Way back on the radio dial, The fire got lit inside a bright-eyed child Every note just wrapped around his soul, From steel guitars to Memphis, all the way to rock ’n’ roll Oh, I can hear ’em playin’ I can hear the ringin’ of a beat-up old guitar Oh, I can hear em singin’, Keep on dreamin’, even if it breaks your heart

hose dreamy lyrics come from the Eli Young Band’s hit “Even if It Breaks Your Heart,” co-written by MTSU grad Eric Paslay. The tune also beats with the ideas that some dreams keep on gettin’ better and you gotta keep believin’ if you wanna know for sure. Paslay is a big believer. But often it seems as if nice guys get the short end of the stick. Maybe that’s why on his new independently-released album, Nice Guy, Eric Paslay playfully chose to explore the long and short of what it might be like to be a pri . . ., er, why he has a bone to pick. It don’t pay to be a nice guy in a bad world, observes Paslay throughout the catchy chorus of the album’s title track. Other lines wryly lay out scenarios such as getting arrested to get one’s picture publicized and interesting reasons for why the nice guy is

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poor. This big bold tune written by Paslay with Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member Craig Wiseman actually pulls off a smooth rhyme of “Bentley” with “evidently.” The album cover mugshot photo was Paslay’s idea. “I just thought, ‘What if I go to jail for being a nice guy?’ Let’s do that. I think the people that really know me will think it’s funny,” Paslay says. During his time as a music business major at MTSU you could find Eric behind a much different variety of bar than those steel ones featured prominently on the cover of his long-awaited new album: the coffee kind. That’s right—he was raking in cash at a different type of bucks. And that hill of beans gave way to a cup brimming with dreams. Maybe more than even he could

have foreseen. Paslay says former MTSU professor Hal Newman is the reason he got into the music business program. “Hal has helped me many, many times. I love him. I write better songs because of his encouragement and because of people that he brought to the NSAI Nights,” Paslay says. “Every Monday, Tuesday, we would have a songwriter, a singer, a publisher, a manager, a label head, an A&R person show up and tell us how Nashville, New York, L.A. really work[ed] at the time. I loved getting to go to the [now-defunct] Red Rose or Wall Street or Liquid Smoke for the open mic after NSAI Night and getting to share a new song and really see the reaction from people and to hear other people’s songs as well. And also getting to go into the studio there and being the guinea pig with engineering students. You just showed up when you got studio time and had fun recording it. It was a lot of learning how to collaborate and figuring out which avenue you’d like to pursue as a musician. Everyone was always really kind to me and I’m very grateful I had the opportunity to go to Middle Tennessee State University.” In 2016 after a performance at the Grand Ole Opry, Paslay was presented with an MTSU Young Alumni Achievement Award plaque. The award is selected annually by the Association’s Board of Directors from nominations submitted by alumni, MTSU faculty, staff and friends. “When I was at MTSU I used to walk by and think maybe one day I’ll do something worth getting on the wall there. Very humbling, and I’m very grateful that I guess I’ve done something cool enough to hopefully inspire other students that anything’s possible and just keep working hard and have fun doing it.” These days Paslay is happily married. He and his wife, Natalie, have a young daughter named Piper (with whom he’s been able to spend a lot more time lately than initially planned). He’s traveled throughout the UK (even released the album Live in Glasgow as a result of that venture), been nominated for Grammys, played the Opry stage, had number-one songs including one of his own as a solo artist (“Friday Night”) and charttoppers with other artists (Rascal Flatts,

Jake Owen, Love & Theft and the Eli Young Band), and he’s set to open a long list of UK dates with The Shires on a 2021 tour. As a Type 1 diabetic, Paslay has made great strides in raising money and awareness as an ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetic Research Foundation In addition to hosting an informative, interactive multipart podcast on the subject titled “Level With Me,” he recently participated in the organization’s Promise Gala event. But, prior to his college days, “I didn’t actually realize there was a job called a songwriter,” Paslay tells the Pulse. “Up until moving to Nashville [and discovering the business side of music at MTSU] I thought that every singer was a songwriter. I thought you had to write your own stuff to sing it,” shares the artist who co-wrote all but one of the 12 tracks on Nice Guy. “But apparently there is,” he says with a laugh. “I’m very happy that I’ve had success as a singer but also glad that other people have recorded songs I’ve written. Paslay’s songwriting successes courtesy of other artists include “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” by Jake Owen, “Even if It Breaks Your Heart” by the Eli Young Band and “Rewind” by Rascal Flatts. Paslay says one of his favorites as recorded by another artist, however, almost didn’t happen. “I was making my first album and Amy Grant approached me because she knew about this one song. This is the one song I was holding on to for me!” Grant sweetly talked him into changing his tune (not literally). “It worked out. I love Amy Grant singing ‘Deep as It Is Wide’ . . . she actually asked me to sing it with her and she invited Sheryl Crow to sing it with us . . . at a time in my life when I was making my first album and knowing the odds of having success as a writer or as a singer were terrible, and to have someone like Amy Grant or Sheryl Crow come along and say ‘hey, you’re really good and also you have a great voice. You should sing it with us too.’ Just going back in my memories right now I would say that was a really special moment and I’m thankful Amy asked me to do that and that she recorded it. “Some of these on the new album I definitely held for myself. Some have been simmering for a long time. It’s been a minute since I’ve had an album come out. I’m releasing it on my own label. I’m always open to a conversation if someone wants to record a song and I’ll think they’ll do it justice and it means more people get to hear it. And I’ll still probably record it myself,” he adds, chuckling.

PASLAY PERFORMS AT 3RD & LINDSLEY. PHOTO BY MELISSA COKER

When I was at MTSU I used to walk by and think maybe one day I’ll do something worth getting on the wall.”

Appropriately-timed “Off the Edge of the Summer” is one Nice track which Paslay took to social media to share a special official video. He’s done music videos for many songs off of the album, some shot in a studio, some scenes shot in Nashville and others shot overseas during tour time. Written with Emily Landis, Mark Trussell and Emily Shackelton, the wistful nostalgic nod to missing a special someone also features backing vocals from European artist and now-Nashville resident Lucie Silvas. “Heartbeat Higher,” a duet with Sarah Buxton, is the current single off of Nice Guy as well as the title track of an alreadyavailable EP. There is also an official video for the song featuring the two in studio. Buxton co-wrote “Heartbeat Higher” and the album’s “Boat in a Bottle” with Paslay, Zach Crowell and Tofer Brown. “I’ve known Sarah for almost 20 years. Her voice is so good, she’s a great writer; she’s a star. She actually took me on a radio tour with her. I played guitar with her on some radio shows. It’s awesome that these songs are coming out and I get to share at least a couple of songs that we’ve written together over the years,” Paslay tells the Pulse. “I Took a Pill in Ibiza” is a Mike Posner cover and the only track on the album that Paslay didn’t have a hand in writing. “I’ve never recorded an outside song and [Nice Guy co-producer] Reid Shippen and I, one of our goals for this album was that I needed to

record a song I didn’t write. I had heard the dance mix of ‘Pill’ with Mike Posner. It’s sped up a million times and it’s just a dance-mix rave. But really it’s one of the saddest songs ever written. I just wanted to make sure that people really heard the lyric he wrote. It’s a beautifully heartbroken song. We gave it a go in the studio and I think we caught magic. Hopefully Mike Posner thinks we did his song justice and gave another beautiful version of it. I think a lot of people go through life and they never really listen. We can all be a little selfish with our own little glow sticks and our little soap parties and drinking a little much and you never actually listen to what the star on stage is saying.” Paslay lets his niceness get the better of him as kindness shines through on tracks like “Fingertips,” “Wild and Young” and “On This Side of Heaven.” “To write this song, we tried to imagine what life would look like if we had lost someone that we couldn’t live without. It was a really hard song to write,” he says of “On This Side of Heaven.” “For those of you who are suffering, I hope this will help you to feel a little less alone in your loss. I also think this song serves as a reminder to all of us to hold onto loved ones and to tell them how important they are every day.” In some song lyrics, the nice guy may be poor on paper, but Pasley serves as evidence that they can be rich in real life. For more on Paslay, visit ericpaslay.com.

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ALBUM

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SPINSTER DIRECTOR

Andrea Dorfman STARRING Chelsea Peretti, Susan Kent, Nadia Tonen

SKYLAR GREGG Roses

Singer-songwriter Skylar Gregg displays a farreaching range and some beautiful vocal ornamentation without making her singing sound overdone, forced or strained at all on her latest album, Roses, drawing inspiration from soulful country, Southern rock and Americana traditions with a dash of jazziness. Gregg seems to have developed precise control of her pipes, going from soulfully belting it out, deep and husky, to high, wispy and angelic at various points throughout the release. The tunes on Roses, while mostly under the midtempo, Southern singer-songwriter banner, have a good range as well, moving from fun to introspective, with creative grooves provided by her excellent band underneath. The opener, “Long Way Back,” drips with passion and soul, bringing to mind the warm rock sounds of the ’70s with its swinging groove and slide guitar. The editor in me wants to whack off the last word in the repeated it’s a long way back to where you started from (unnecessary preposition!), but it’s okay. The word is rhythmically useful and helps make a very catchy hook, and the song rocks. The backing band sounds great, supplying layers of organ and horns. The sound migrates to a combination of fiddle, whining pedal steel and rim clicks for the more countrified title track, Roses, capturing a classically forlorn country style that could do George, Merle or Waylon proud. They say to stop and smell the roses, Lord I ain’t got enough time / Roses smell like death to me, remind me of old memories, Gregg sings just before country piano licks transition into an instrumental break. “Never Enough” contains an absolutely beautiful melody and elsewhere on he album the artist sings that she’s been so many people, don’t remember where I’m from. 14 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

RATED NR

The collection has a country flavor to it, but Gregg doesn’t use an exaggerated Southern accent. She seems to have found her own vocal personality, perhaps taking some inspiration from Susan Tedeschi and Sheryl Crow as well as country powerhouses such as Tammy, Trisha and Martina. There’s even something about the richness and fullness of Gregg’s vocals on “Have You Ever Tried to Lose Your Mind,” just letting go and focusing on nothing in the world other than singing, as she sings Maybe it’s for the best, that has a Celine Dion kind of way to it. To balance any tendency toward the operatic and dramatic, Gregg breaks out a humorous country tune, “Drunk in Nashville,” suggesting that drinking anywhere else just ain’t the same. If there were ever a tune built to be blasted from a Nashville pedal tavern as the gals sing along raucously while they roll down the honky-tonk-lined streets, this may be it. Though the release is billed as a Gregg solo record, the artist surrounds herself with an great team, including husband Taylor Lonardo on bass, former Rhythm Kitchen mates Heather Moulder and Joey Fletcher, and a host of other Greggs on background vocals, among others. This group could potentially put on an incredible live performance, maybe allowing all of the instrumentalists more of a chance to shine, turning some of the three-minute ditties into epic, extended exploratory jams. But for those who enjoy a very well crafted record of a Southern gal just singing her songs (which also touch on the legend of the Bell Witch, the Murfreesboro landfill and the relaxing, sweet Southern strain of a certain plant), with a very polished bunch of players backing, give Roses a listen. — BRACKEN MAYO

While we’re in the midst of movie theaters reopening—with road rage exploitation and gnarly ’90s nostalgia testing the waters for Christopher Nolan’s latest “mindbending” tent-pole, Tenet—there are still plenty of streaming options for those (most of us, judging by the recent box-office numbers) who aren’t quite ready to eat a bucket of popcorn in a room with a hundred coughing strangers. Bill & Ted Face the Music is currently in a split theatrical/ home release, while lesser-known gems like Rogue, in which Megan Fox leads a military outfit against hungry lions (I very nearly chose to review that), or the disastrously titled The Burnt Orange Heresy, in which Mick-effing-Jagger plays a wealthy art dealer instigating a heist, usher us into the new golden age of at-home cinema. Then there’s Spinster, a downto-earth, dismantled rom-com without the rom. Starring a subdued Chelsea Peretti, a stand-up comedian probably best known for her scene-owning role as super-diva Gina Linetti in the show Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Spinster explores the life and possibility of the often-taboo topic of singlehood the title suggests. After losing a catering gig due to a difference of opinion with a fairy-tale romance-espousing bride-to-be, Gaby (Peretti) comes home to her boyfriend of three

months surreptitiously packing his things, dumping her on her 39th birthday. From there, she’s met with outside pressure from her best friend, her brother and her father, and internal pressure from herself to meet someone and possibly have kids so she doesn’t end up dying alone. It’s a fear so great that we often don’t see how we as a society can be cruel to those who either haven’t found it, or choose to be okay without it. Though intentionally downtempo and steadily paced, Spinster never wallows in that fear of ultimate loneliness, but punctuates its naturalistic dialogue with small laughs throughout. While Gaby goes through the rom-com motions in the first act, trying out softball, going on a few Tinder dates, and the like (the montage of her one-line responses to her faceless dates is a hilarious lesson in single-sentence storytelling), it’s not long before she begins to find things that distract from, and ultimately replace, the search for “that special someone,” and though those things are somewhat predictable—she gets a dog, develops a relationship with her niece, makes friends with her spinster neighbor—the film portrays it all with a light-hearted realism, grounded in Peretti’s excellent performance. Spinster won’t be for everyone. The lighting and cinematography are a little on the Hallmark movie side, and the white upper-middle class Canadian vibe could put some people off, but it’s charming and its characters are so well-developed that I think it could be for everyone, regardless of relationship status. Spinster is worth a rent on Amazon Prime. — JAY SPIGHT

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Food OFF THE SQUARE The Alley on Main 223 W. Main St. Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Enjoy steaks, seafood, pasta, sandwiches and a full bar along with homemade desserts in a relaxed, outdoor courtyard. Milano II & Jack’s Place 114 E. College St. Tues.–Fri. 11 a.m.–2 p.m., and 5–9 p.m.; Sat. 5–9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Feast on Northern Italian cuisine, chicken marsala, veal Parmesan, steaks and more on Milano’s beautiful, covered front porch. Puckett’s Grocery 114 N. Church St. Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat. 7 a.m.– 10 p.m.; Sun. 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Southern staples, comfort food, meat-and-three and slow-smoked barbecue on the porch.

MEMORIAL BLVD. Primrose Table 1650 Memorial Blvd. Tues.–Thurs. 4–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 4–10 p.m. Fine dining with casual hospitality, made-from-scratch meals ranging from burgers and fish & chips to salmon, kids menu and desserts. Uncle Maddio’s Pizza 125 Wendlewood Dr. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m. –10 p.m. Customers build their own pizzas and salads assembly-line style. Chipotle Mexican Grill 2113 Memorial Blvd. 10:45 a.m.–10 p.m. Build your own burrito at Murfreesboro’s newest Chipotle and enjoy it in the outdoor dining area.

OLD FORT PKWY. Coconut Bay Cafe 210 Stones River Mall Blvd. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Pub food with a full bar. Enjoy the casual, beach-like atmosphere on the patio with a kids zone. Mi Patria 230 Stones River Mall Blvd.

Let’s Sit Outside Patio dining options in Murfreesboro and Smyrna BY LAURA LINDSAY Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Mexican menu featuring fajitas, enchiladas and more. Enjoy complimentary cheese dip with your meal. Sam’s Sports Grill 1720 Old Fort Pkwy. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Tennessee-based sports bar serving pizzas, burgers, ribs, chicken tenders, pub grub and more with first-come, first-serve seating on their covered patio featuring outdoor TVs for sports viewing. Miller’s Ale House 1714 Old Fort Pkwy. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Miller’s serves steaks, pasta, chicken and more along with 75 varieties of beer. Panera Bread 1970 Old Fort Pkwy. Mon.–Sat. 6 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Sun. 6:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Pick up your pastry, sandwich, soup or salad at the counter and head outdoors for some fresh air. Ahart’s Pizza Garden 2476 Old Fort Pkwy. Sun., Mon., Wed. and Thurs. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Specialty pies, pastas, salads, sandwiches and draft beer, along with a spacious patio out back. Greek Cafe Grill 2441 Old Fort Pkwy. Mon.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m.

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Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Casual Greek and Mediterranean food made from fresh ingredients. A few patio tables are located outside on the covered sidewalk. Cheddar’s 1829 Old Fort Pkwy. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11:30 p.m. This chain restaurant serves up classic American comfort food, steaks, chicken and fish, plus cocktails, and is kid-friendly. Bar-B-Cutie 805 Old Fort Pkwy. Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Nashville chain offering pulled pork, ribs, brisket and sides.

CHURCH STREET Parthenon Grille 1962 S. Church St. Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Steak, seafood and other Greek specialties in an upscale atmosphere. Mayday Brewery 521 Old Salem Rd. Wed.–Thurs. 4–9 p.m. Fri. 4–10 p.m., Sat. 1–10 p.m. Sun. 1–7 p.m. This local brewery allows guests to bring in their own food, or there is usually a food truck onsite and patrons can enjoy their meal on the large outdoor deck.

RUTHERFORD BLVD.  Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant 2962 S. Rutherford Blvd. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Enjoy a tall pitcher of margaritas with chips and queso on the covered patio. Applebee’s 2896 S. Rutherford Blvd. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Enjoy fresh-off-the grill entrees and appetizers or a cocktail. Mexiven 1706 Bradyville Pk. Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Get tacos, tortas, gorditas, pupusas, empanadas and other authentic Mexican food. A few picnic tables are available under a covered area.

BROAD STREET Chuy’s 801 NW Broad St. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Chain serving “big as yo face” burritos and other hearty Tex-Mex dishes with patio seating. Party Fowl 127 SE Broad St. Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat.–Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Spicy fried chicken and other eats as well as craft beers and cocktails. Champy’s Chicken 1290 NW Broad St.

Mon.–Thurs. 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri. 10:30 a.m.–11 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Made-from-scratch fried chicken, tamales, fried green tomatoes, smoked sausage, hot wings, fried jalapeños, coleslaw, baked beans banana pudding and more. Buster’s Place 1615 NW Broad St. Mon.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m. Buster’s is a locally loved burger dive joint that opened in 1973 and features hamburgers, wings, chili, classic sides and a bar. 219 Broad St. Mixed Cuisine 219 NW Broad St. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sushi, draft beers, Italian dishes, American food, Southeast Asian dishes and the big cakes that locals remember from the former restaurant at this location. Find a few outdoor tables out front.

MAIN STREET/MTSU Slick Pig BBQ 1920 E. Main St. Tues.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Enjoy BBQ sandwiches, hickorysmoked wings, mac ’n’ cheese, catfish, white beans and more. The Boro Bar & Grill 1211 Greenland Dr. Mon.–Thurs. 3 p.m.–12 a.m. Fri.–Sun. 12 p.m.–12 a.m. Enjoy your burgers and beer on the green picnic tables, located just across from Floyd Stadium. The Boulevard Bar & Grill 2154 Middle Tennessee Blvd. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Enjoy a large draft brew selection and eclectic eats on the patio. Jefferson’s 1916 E. Main St. Sun.–Wed. 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Thurs.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–11 p.m. Wings, burgers, oysters and beer served up in a relaxed setting, indoors or out. Van’s Bar & Grill 2404 Halls Hill Pk. Sun.–Wed. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Thurs.–Fri. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Van’s cooks up some fine smoked

wings and burgers. Hang outside as you eat and drink, if you like. Jimmy John’s 2130 Middle Tennessee Blvd. 10 a.m.–2 a.m. The Jimmy John’s near the MTSU campus, serving sub sandwiches and potato chips, has a few tables outside on the patio. Hop Springs 6670 John Bragg Hwy. Wed.–Sun. 1–9 p.m. This brewery, park and event center serves food from the smoker and a variety of beverages and has a large amount of space where guests may spread out. Find a spacious covered porch alongside the brewery.

NORTHFIELD Don Ramon Mexican Restaurant 2069 Lascassas Pk. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Enjoy classic Mexican favorites and margaritas in a colorful setting with a covered patio. Carmen’s Taqueria 206 W. Northfield Blvd. Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Enjoy homemade Mexican fare and drinks in Carmen’s covered patio area. Five Senses 1602 W. Northfield Blvd. St. 515 Mon.–Thurs. 5:30–9:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 5:30–10 p.m. Five Senses is an upscale restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood, local meats and produce as well as seasonal menus.

MEDICAL CENTER PKWY. Core Life 2330 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. E, 10:45 a.m.–8 p.m. A quick stop for grain bowls, broth bowls, healthy plates and salads with some outdoor seating. Mission BBQ 2314 Medical Center Pkwy. Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun. 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. Casual chain featuring BBQ and sides, with memorabilia inside honoring soldiers and first responders. BurgerIM 2306 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. B1 Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Sun.–Thurs. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m.–11 p.m. Have your burger and hand-cut fries on a picnic table outside.

SMYRNA

Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Burgers, wings, Nashville hot chicken sandwiches and beverages including bubble tea. Jonathan’s Grille 2911 Medical Center Pkwy. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. This upscale sports bar is part of a chain that has 55 TVs in each location and offers pub food, salads, pizzas, appetizers and more along with a full bar. Covered paito seating available. Blaze Pizza 2314 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. 1-A Sun.–Thurs. 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Crispy, thin crust pies made with creative toppings and sauces. Pick your pizza up at the counter and find a table outside for dining. Steakhouse Five 1500 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. 1K Mon.–Thurs. 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. Fri. 5:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.–1 p.m., 5:30–10 p.m. An upscale restaurant that offers a variety of fine steaks, a long list of whiskeys, wines and cocktails and a tasty brunch menu. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar 2243 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. B Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Features burgers and other sandwiches, appetizers, chopped salads, handmade shakes, wine, beer and specialty cocktails. Bar Louie 2615 Medical Center Pkwy. #2395, at the Avenue Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Fri. 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.– 1 a.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–12 a.m. All-American fare including craft burgers, fries, pasta, flatbreads, martinis, micro-brews and more.

Burger Republic 1500 Medical Center Pkwy. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. A Middle Tennessee-based restaurant and bar concept, offering gourmet Angus burgers, craft beers and hand-spun milkshakes. Some outdoor tables even offer a small firepit on the table, for cooler weather dining. Firehouse Subs 2018 Medical Center Pkwy. 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Counter-service chain offering made-to-order hot and cold subs, and tree-shaded outdoor seating. Red Robin 1986 Medical Center Pkwy. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Burger chain offering gourmet sandwiches, appetizers, soups and salads, shakes and desserts, brews and cocktails. The Goat 2355 Adwell St. Mon.–Wed. 11 a.m.–12 a.m. Thurs.–Sat. 11 a.m.–1 a.m. Sun. 10 a.m.–12 a.m. Elevated pub fare, cocktails, live music and volleyball on sand courts just outside of the restaurant. Enjoy the game and your food outdoors. Metro Diner 711 A-1 N. Thompson Ln. 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Classic breakfast, lunch and dinner menu including shepherd’s pie, shrimp and grits, salads, meatloaf and more. Jason’s Deli 452 N. Thompson Ln. 10 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Deli chain featuring piled-high sandwiches, salad bar and more. Moe’s Southwest Grill 452 N. Thompson Ln. 10:45 a.m.–8 p.m. Next to Jason’s Deli, Moe’s offers Southwestern staples from burritos to nachos. Pick your food up at the counter and take it to an outside table to dine. Five Guys 536 N. Thompson Ln.

Karin’s Kustard & Hamburgers 470 S. Lowery St. Mon.–Sat. 10:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Sun. 12–6 p.m Roadside eatery for burgers, hotdogs and frozen custard on cones. Walk up to the window to order and eat at one of the outside tables. La Tavola 114 Front St. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Casual Italian eatery offering appetizers, entrees, drinks and desserts with special menu items on Friday and Saturday nights. Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que 991 Industrial Blvd. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Barbecue chain serving woodsmoked meats and sides in an American West-themed space. Carpe Cafe 115 Front St. Mon.–Sat. 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. A mellow place with coffee, light fare including quiche, local art and sometimes live music. Some seating is available on the small front porch. Thida Thai 10644 Cedar Grove Rd. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Relaxed Thai eatery featuring traditional dishes and sushi bar, along with beer and wine.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Blue Coast Burrito 1122 Memorial Blvd. Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. 1141 Fortress Blvd. 635 President Pl., Smyrna 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Burritos, tacos and other MexiCalistyle eats, made to order. Head out to the open-air patio to enjoy. Camino Real 3359 Memorial Blvd. 2628 Rideout Ln. 3919 Cedar Glades Rd. 3205 S. Church St. 105 Lasseter Dr. 408 Sam Ridley Pkwy. W., Smyrna

Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. When it comes to great Mexican food, Camino is a Middle Tennessee staple. Enjoy fajitas, margaritas, burritos and more. All locations offer patio dining. Culver’s 2411 Medical Center Pkwy. 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m. 2993 S. Rutherford Blvd. 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Famous for its Midwest beef burgers and frozen-custard creations, both inside its MTSU-themed dining room or outdoors. Dairy Queen 2910 S. Rutherford Blvd. 1735 Memorial Blvd. 10 a.m – 10 p.m. Soft-service ice cream, shakes, cakes and more with classic burgers and fries. La Siesta Mexican 1111 Greenland Dr. 2424 S. Church St. 1608 NW Broad St. Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. A long-time favorite of MTSU students and locals alike. Have your pollo loco, burrito supreme, cerveza or margaritas on the patio. Newk’s Eatery 2615 Medical Center Pkwy. 149 Wendlewood Dr. 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Regional chain offering a menu of salads, soups, pizzas and sandwiches in a casual setting. Sonic Drive-In 2083 Lascassas Pk., 1918 Memorial Blvd., 1311 NW Broad St., 1650 Middle Tennessee Blvd., 2630 S. Church St., 1627 New Salem Rd., 215 Cason Ln., 1129 Fortress Blvd., 1889 Almaville Rd., Smyrna; 791 Nissan Dr., Smyrna; 799 Team Blvd., Smyrna; 5210 Murfreesboro Rd., La Vergne Hours may vary by location, Mon.–Thurs. 6 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. 6 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Diners can enjoy their sandwiches, tots, corn dogs, slushies and ice cream in their car, and most locations have covered picnic tables. Anything missing from this list? Let us know your favorite place at boropulse.com/patiodining.

BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2020 * 17

Food

Clockwise from left: Bowl with white, ahi and spicy tuna topped with crispy onions; Poke Fun serving counter; crab and shrimp bowl; Thai and honeydew bubble teas

 RESTAURANT

Right: Seaweed salad; colorful Poke bowls; chocolate mochi

Poke Fun Sushi in a Bowl

STORY BY BRACKEN MAYO

OKE FUN, A SMALL EATERY at the corner of Thompson Lane and Medical Center Parkway, offers a creative and delicious way to partake in a healthy meal of lean fish, vegetables and rice. Here, the diner can customize toppings to ensure their meal contains exactly the flavors and ingredients they desire. The establishment offers “sushi in a bowl,” as Poke Fun co-founder and owner Jian Dong says. Jian came to the U.S. from China, and his Poke Fun concept combines elements from Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese and American

18 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

PHOTOS BY SARAH MAYO dining to create a fresh fast-food option in Murfreesboro. He launched the restaurant in 2018 and operates Poke Fun along with Katy Zhu. Diners enter the restaurant and select the ingredients they want in their bowl from among various protein, vegetable, sauce and base options at the counter, all of “exceptional quality,” as patron Stan Carlock commented after a meal. “The veggies were crisp and fresh . . . so many variations that you’d never run out of options!” he said. “If you are a sushi lover, you need to give Poke a try.”

To begin building a bowl, pick a foundation of white rice, brown rice, zucchini noodles, tortilla chips or a green mix. Then, Subway style, order the toppings, such as yellowtail, white tuna, salmon, spicy tuna, carrots, cucumber, edamame, pineapple, red cabbage and many others. Vy La says she recommends the tuna and salmon bowl with mixed greens, though she adds that “everything is delicious.” To simplify the process for the indecisive, choose one of the Poke Fun Signature Bowls, such as the Surfing bowl, with ahi tuna, salmon, white tuna, avocado, cucumber, sweet corn, mango, yummy sauce, wasabi mayo, ginger, wasabi, crispy garlic, roasted seaweed and masago, or the crab and shrimp bowl with crab, shrimp, cucumber, sweet onion, sweet corn, edamame, yummy sauce, ginger, wasabi and crispy garlic. In addition to raw, sushi-grade varieties of fish, find grilled chicken, fried shrimp and a few other options for those not too enthusiastic about pure sushi. “The food served here is exceptional. The brown rice is always great, the vegetables are fresh and crispy, and the available meats and toppings are the best,” says Joe

LaFerriere, who says he likes a little extra ginger sauce with his Poke Fun creation. One diner said he liked to kick up the spice a bit, and suggested perhaps using the spicy tuna, along with some sriracha, spicy mayo and mixing in a sufficient, but cautious, amount of the potent wasabi. Fresh jalapeños are also on the serving table for the heat-inclined. “The spice level on the fish and scallops was perfect,” another Yelper posted after enjoying his meal from Poke Fun. “Veggie portions to rice was spot-on. It hit the spot.” The eatery has lots of veggies to choose from, with a selection including corn, avocado, cilantro, mango, cabbage, roasted sesame, onion, carrot, the tasty and crunchy seaweed salad and more. “Diet-friendly but still delicious!” Brittany Goodwin says. The serving area brings to mind the nearby (but now closed) Your Pie style, with seafood selections in place of the pork toppings from the former pizza place. “If you like sushi and you like Chipotle, this is the perfect marriage of the two,” another customer, Madison, posted in an online review of Poke Fun. “Mix it up every time. Pine offers unique flavors.”

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For something sweet, for the price. Those who are HOURS: mochi, a type of Japanese used to a big, calorie-loaded Monday–Thursday: ice cream something like meal may find themselves 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: little dumplings filled with hungry again just a couple 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; ice creamy goodness, are of hours after enjoying a Sunday: available in mango, strawPoke Fun bowl, and may 11 a.m.–8 p.m. berry, green tea and chocolate hesitate to shell out the PRICES: flavors. These small scoops price for a meal that is Small build your own of ice cream are covered in natural, fresh and dietbowl: $8.95; Large a rice flour dough, making compatible but sometimes build your own bowl: $13.95; Seaweed them easy to pick up with the perceived as “skimpy.” salad: $3.95; Mochi hands and bite right in, like A large bowl and a ice cream: $2.50; an ice cream sandwich. bubble tea, a wonderful Veggie bowl: $7.95; Bubble tea: $4.50 Poke Fun also offers meal but for most appetites a bubble tea menu with not excessively gluttonONLINE: mango, honeydew, banana, ous, would run about $20. pokefuntn.com strawberry, Thai tea, coconut Plenty of fans of sushi and other sweet and cool bubble tea varieties would be quite happy to pay that amount The Poke Fun team serves its bowls in occasionally, though, for an excellent, fresh handy to-go containers, so it’s easy to pop and tasty dining experience at Poke Fun. on a lid and take the remainder home if The big bowl of sushi can be a little simone doesn’t finish their meal. pler to eat than some sushi rolls, particuAnd numerous diners have commented larly some of the larger rolls stuffed with on the cleanliness of the place. Many feel ingredients, a slice of which can be nearly more comfortable about the food preparaimpossible to fit in one’s mouth. tion and safety of a restaurant if the owners Additionally, for those who aim to support take such care to keep the dining room the small, independent businesses, Poke Fun clean and comfortable. is among the minority of unique local res“It is a calm atmosphere,” a recent taurants on that side of Murfreesboro along customer commented, adding that the meal Medical Center Parkway, which contains a “leaves you feeling full, but a healthy full, wealth of large chain establishments. not stuffed to the brim!” So, for a quick and natural take on sushi, However, one of the few criticisms of or to grab a cool and sweet bubble tea, give Poke Fun seems to be the quantity received Poke Fun a try.

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FOR OVER A DECADE THE CITY OF MURFREESBORO HAS BEEN HOSTING THE Greenway Art Festival, which in 2020 will go virtual. The week of Sept. 14, visit murfreesborotn.gov to get a free copy of the Greenway Art Festival Interactive PDF. This will be a gateway to a world of beautiful local art. “We decided the best thing to do to share our Greenway Art Festival this year is to make it virtual,” said Lisa Browning of Murfreesboro Cultural Arts. Festival planners are committed to supporting the hard work and creativity that has been reflective of the Greenway Art Festival participants since 2005. The Interactive PDF will provide samplings of the artists’ work, artist bios and links to all of their ecommerce sites. “It is our desire that art lovers from not only our community but across the country and beyond have the opportunity to see and purchase amazing art,” Browning said. The 2020 Virtual Greenway Art Festival Interactive PDF will go live on Sept. 14 and stay active for two weeks. For more information, contact Deb Hunter at 615-801-2606 or dhunter@murfreesborotn.gov. 20 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

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Living

 BOOK

Steered Straight Book encourages talking with children about addiction, depression, healthy living, happiness. BY MICHAEL DELEON IN TODAY’S SUBSTANCE ABUSE PANDEMIC, the pandemic within the pandemic, we are experiencing a worsening of was already the worst public social health crisis America has ever seen. The threat to our youth is greater than ever and with the chasm between what parents needed to know in the ’80s and the current trends necessary to understand now, the importance of parental education and awareness can’t be overestimated. It is vital! The threats to youth have changed over the years, and the terminology parents thought they understood is in need of new understanding. What are the conversations you need to have? Where does connection fit in with this digital world? Where do we go from here? My name is Michael DeLeon. I am a recovered addict, ex-offender, former gang member and a national leader in prevention, recovery, addiction advocacy and criminal justice reform. This past six-month period has been an experience no family was prepared for, but the uncertainty of the next six months, and beyond, might be 22 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

equally unsettling for some. Whether your children are back in school full-time, distance learning from home or participating in a hybrid model, the parentchild conversations are more important than they have ever been. Over 20 years of research has proven that the family dinner time is crucial. Younger kids gain incredible vocabulary from these conversations, more so than even reading to them. Older teenagers reap intellectual benefits and academic achievement from family conversations at the dinner table. Adolescents who ate family meals 5 to 7 times a week were twice as likely to get A’s in school as those who ate dinner with their families fewer than two times a week. It is more than having dinner with your kids five nights per week. That’s the “gold

standard” from nearly every prevention organization and every prevention professional in America. Those meals are important, but it’s the conversations that are vital. What do you say? What should be discussed? Why has the adolescent suicide rate increased 56% in the past 10 years? Why is adolescent suicide rising faster than every other age demographic? Why is teen drug use surging again? What should I talk to my kids about? These are some of the questions we get on a daily basis from thousands of parents all across America. It’s why the family conversations are so vital, especially at this time in our country where isolation is causing such a shift in how kids process the world around them, and why building protective factors is so critical. Family conversations can accomplish those goals. Even if your family doesn’t have those five dinners, at least have five conversations. Maybe it’s three dinners, a lunch and a breakfast. Maybe one of the five conversations is a picnic talk, or a walk talk. Maybe, just maybe, you can have a few of those conversations in the car! The team at my organization, Steered Straight, came up with an exhaustive year-long guide for families, Table Talks and Dashboard Conversations. This guide helps parents have some of those critical conversations regardless of where you are. Consistent and open communication with your children will boost their self-esteem,

“Over 20 years of research has proven that the

family dinner time is crucial. Younger kids gain incredible vocabulary from these conversations, more so than even reading to them.”

improve their self-image and empower them to make long-term healthy decisions. They will begin to feel “heard” and understood by you, the most important person in their life, and they will be less likely to adhere to the voice of negative influencers or counterproductive social norms. Steered Straight has published the first-of-its-kind book, Table Talks and Dashboard Conversations, containing more than 365 conversation suggestions, as an easy-to-use, journaling guide. Each month is broken down into a theme, such as The Drug Epidemic and Core Values. The conversations discuss subjects including leadership readiness, bullying and internet safety. The book discusses the “trifecta gateway” (alcohol, marijuana and nicotine), the e-cigarette and vaping trends, marijuana legalization and commercialization and the digital relationship to substance use and abuse. Each conversation is designed to be three minutes long, but you’ll be surprised how many of those three-minute conversations turn into 30-minute conversations. That’s the beauty of them. Some will be short and to the point. Some may evolve into life-changing moments. Some of the topics for discussion include: – How you soothe yourself when you are not happy – Asking your child to explain addiction, how to recognize it in someone, and what it might look like – Body language and how it affects a conversation – Talking about things you enjoy, even simple things, contrasted by depression and how it can immobilize you if you let it – What it means to be creative, contrasted with the way drugs destroy creativity – How the body and brain will become dependent on drugs and unable to function without them, and gaining an understanding of drug tolerance The book also provides family field trip ideas for every weekend, with more chances to bond and build life lessons. Table Talks and Dashboard Conversations is $19.99 and is available on Amazon, at steeredstraight.org or at the Murfreesboro Steered Straight Thrift Store at 1222 Park Ave. For more information, call 856-691-6676 or 615-962-7539 or visit tabletalksprevention.org.

Living

 BOOK

LOCAL COUPLE Roy and Margrey Thompson have authored the book Progress Not Perfection: Building a Powerful Marriage While Raising Challenging Children, recently released as an e-book and in a Kindle version as well as in print. “In writing this book, our hope is that readers are able to take away some novel ideas and thoughts that they can instantly use in their lives. Raising children with unique dilemmas is often isolating, embarrassing and lonely for parents. These feelings can easily drive a wedge between marriage partners, and they can lose focus on their love for each other,” the Thompson couple says. Married for over 42 years, Roy and Margrey are parents to three adopted children, Heather (32), Dylan (28) and Molly (26). 24 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

The family resides in Murfreesboro. “Marriage is generally a tough relationship to navigate in a good situation. If you add the stress of a challenging child plus a demanding job and our own individual issues, the marriage can easily begin to break down. Standing together, not divided, is often the only skill that keeps the marriage together,” according to a statement by the Thompsons. “It takes communication, endurance and delayed gratification from both marriage partners to work through the tough spots of their marriage.” In the book, Dr. Thompson shares this parenting wisdom: “You will grow and stretch. Your hearts will sing—and break— time and time again. One day you will come to measure your child’s success and prog-

ress with a different ruler. You will learn to develop your own ruler, not the one other parents and experts use.” The book continues, “Our hope for someone struggling in marriage or in raising their children is to give them reassurance that they are not alone. Remember the days of falling in love. Remember the good times with friends and family. Try to be honest with yourself and evaluate the positive and negatives of your marriage. Talk and keep talking to each other. Try not to be hurtful, but helpful. Find that circle of trust again. One of the greatest joys of marriage is the ability to hold your partner up when they are struggling or having a difficult time.” In this honest look at marriage and parenting, the Thompson couple offers their Secret Parenting Weapons, stress the importance of communication and name the five pillars that are the foundation of their marriage: • Choose Trust • Choose Commitment • Choose Health • Choose Resilience • Choose Optimism “Roy and I don’t feel we could have been successful with our children without relying on each other and working together. Honest communication is a core principle between us. Our faith and our God have been active parts of this journey. Being committed to hard work has helped,” Margrey says. “For the most part, our children had a normal childhood, but it was dotted with psychologist appointments instead of Little League

games. We have done the very best job that we feel we were capable of for our children, and now our goal is to continue helping them mature as adults.” Roy Thompson has been serving in his dental practice in Murfreesboro since 1978. He also has dedicated time volunteering dental care services to the underserved in Middle Tennessee communities. The Academy of General Dentistry presented to him the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry Humanitarian Award in 2014. Multifaceted entrepreneur Margrey Thompson is a wife and mother as well as a manager of real estate, a physical therapist and founder of five companies. In 1981, Margrey Thompson became founder, owner and chief executive officer of The TheraCare Companies, which included outpatient rehabilitation clinics and home health agencies located throughout Middle Tennessee. She also created TheraCare Cardiac Rehabilitation Center and TheraCare Work Hardening Programs, which continued until 1994, when the Thompsons sold The TheraCare Companies to National Rehabilitation Centers, where she became regional vice president of their rehabilitation centers, located in Kentucky, Tennessee and Louisiana. Roy and Margrey also created a commercial real estate development company in 1981. Margrey and Roy Thompson spearheaded a campaign that raised over $1 million dollars to establish Interfaith Dental Clinic’s first satellite office located in Rutherford County, the only Interfaith Dental Clinic located outside Davidson County. Find Progress Not Perfection: Building a Powerful Marriage While Raising Challenging Children on Amazon. For more information, visit margreyroybooks.com, email mtrtbooks@comcast.net or call 615-476-8175.

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News PUBLIC MASK MASKS IN SCHOOLS? DEBATE CONTINUES BY BRACKEN MAYO

AS THE FALL 2020 SCHOOL TERM began in local schools, both Rutherford County and Murfreesboro City school systems have instituted a mask mandate. Nearly half of the approximately 57,000 students enrolled in the local public school systems began the year learning at a distance from home rather than attending a school building each day, according to Rutherford County and Murfreesboro City school officials. Students and employees who do attend in-person classes this term must wear a face covering while at school. “This policy is in place to increase protection from spreading COVID-19 while attending school,” according to the Rutherford County Board of Education. “Medical exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis if parents can provide detailed medical documentation from a doctor that clearly explains why someone cannot wear a mask.” The new, strict face-covering policy caused at least one local family to step away from the public school system altogether. Throughout 2020, individuals, governments and organizations across the globe have debated how to respond to COVID-19, analyzing the seriousness of the threat to medical systems and economies, gauging how to react, how to balance the response with preserving some sense of normalcy and liberty, and where to draw the line. In Murfreesboro, Adam R. Williams is drawing the line with masks, or as he refers to them “face diapers for followers of the cult of the branch COVIDians.” He does not wear one, and says the schools shouldn’t require kids to either. “Nobody, healthy or sick, should wear a mask all day. It’s an unhealthy practice for 26 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

numerous proven reasons and you shouldn’t need a doctor to tell you that at this point,” Williams says. His son, age 6, attended a YMCA summer care program at a Rutherford County elementary school, without a mask, after Williams stated he objected to the policy on religious grounds. However, when he showed up with his son for first-grade enrollment, the principal stated that a religious exemption previously respected at the same school during summer essential care “won’t float here” and insisted that all in the school would wear a mask. Williams pointed out that the school system’s policy is at odds with Rutherford County Mayor Bill Ketron’s August executive order, which specifically exempts children 12 and under from wearing a mask. “To be clear, I respected this COVID situation for as long as the science behind it wasn’t ridiculous and political,” Williams said. He said he just does not want to see government action taken based on “rising numbers” which include multiple instances of rescinded positive case counts, positive test results from individuals who never took a test in Murfreesboro and elsewhere and counting those who died in car wrecks and other completely unrelated passings as COVID deaths. “They lost me with the fruit and goat testing positive,” Williams continued, referring to the controversial case of a goat and a pawpaw fruit testing positive for COVID-19 in Tanzania earlier this year, leading many to speculate on the accuracy of case numbers. He referenced numerous studies, among the vast amount of information he has reviewed over the past eight months, refuting the effectiveness of masks and questioning whether governments should require schoolchildren to wear them. One study pointed out that typically the first rule of any medical action should be to “do no harm.” Some opposed to forced masking contend that the headaches, breathing challenges, communication barriers, rashes and psychological effects of

the masks may far outweigh any potential benefit of forcing students to wear them, suggesting that masks actually cause physical, mental and educational harm. Few will disagree when looking at the statistics that COVID-19 presents a very, very low risk of death in the young and healthy, and the Centers for Disease Control, earlier in 2020, issued specific statements that the CDC “does not recommend the use of face masks to help prevent novel coronavirus.” “This is a submission and pacification exercise at this point, trauma-induced mind control,” Williams said. “Many of us have been done participating for some time now.” Williams’ research on the topic led him to look at Denmark, a country with very few deaths from the virus, and minimal government-ordered masking requirements. “Face masks in public places are not necessary, based on all the current evidence,” Coen Berends, spokesman for the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment in Denmark, said in August. “There is no benefit and there may even be negative impact.” Plenty of physicians across the world have voiced their opposition to mandatory masking requirements, both from scientific and personal liberty standpoints. One physician, who questioned how risky not wearing a mask really was in the first place, pointed out that even if it were a sound medical choice, plenty of studies demonstrate that “certain lifestyle choices, such as attending farmer’s markets or owning a pet” may have positive health outcomes as well, though governors and school boards do not order everyone to attend a farmer’s market or own a pet. Another article Williams shared stated that cloth face masks, often cobbled together as a makeshift alternative when stocks of surgical masks run low, and sometimes worn as a fashion statement, offer no practical protection against the novel coronavirus, a study conducted by an environmental epidemiology professor in Japan concluded. The New England Journal of Medicine said that “in health care settings, a mask is a core component of the personal protective equipment clinicians need when caring for symptomatic patients with respiratory viral infections, in conjunction with gown, gloves, and eye protection. “However, wearing a mask outside healthcare facilities offers little, if any, protection from infection. . . . The chance of catching COVID-19 from a passing interaction in a public space is minimal. In many cases, the desire for widespread masking is a reflexive reaction to anxiety over the pandemic.” Williams had initially hoped that local

educators, tasked with passing on a passion for learning and critical thinking to the next generation, would investigate a variety of sources with exploratory and open minds to arrive at their own conclusions before falling in line with the herd thinking. But he soon abandoned that hope after being referred to the attorney for the school system to continue any further dialogue. He considered getting an attorney of his own involved, considered getting doctors involved, but rather than placing a 6-year-old in the middle of a political disagreement with a government brainwashing institution, Williams opted to homeschool his son. In neighboring Coffee County, a parent of a public school student did indeed file a lawsuit against the county school system there over its mask requirement. Williams said he is “at peace with the decision” to opt for homeschooling. “It has certainly been a major adjustment for my family . . . you adapt and overcome. I just feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to keep my son out of that environment. I know plenty of other parents who aren’t as lucky, and they are extremely anxious about their situations,” he said. His son “gets more time with me and he gets to learn more than the subjects taught in public school.” Later seeing the agreement that Rutherford County schools sent out to parents of distancelearning students asking them to not tune into the video sessions, a move that caused some controversy of its own, “furthered my resolve” to homeschool, Williams said. Williams says he agrees with the words of Ohio lawmaker Nino Vitale. “We are all created in the image and likeness of God. That image is seen the most by our face. I will not wear a mask,” Vitale told his constituents. Though the public manipulation, an “Operation Mockingbird” experiment of sorts, continues to escalate. If the cable news outlets relentlessly tell the public to wear masks, over and over and over, they will fall in line, regardless of any real danger present or proof of a mask’s effectiveness in combating it. If social media sites don’t want information contrary to their end goals, they will censor it, ban it, label it or discredit it. “The problem with mask mandates is that public health officials are not merely recommending a precaution that may or may not be effective. They are using force to make people submit to a state order that could ultimately make individuals or entire populations sicker,” said Jon Miltimore, managing editor of the Foundation for Economic Education’s website. “It’s a violation of a basic personal freedom.”

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THE PEACH COBBLER FACTORY, which operates a food truck and a Nashville store on Nolensville Pike, has opened a Smyrna store at 242 S. Lowry St. In addition to peach cobbler, the store offers a variety of other cobblers such as caramel apple, blackberry peach, cherry, sweet potato pecan, apple walnut raisin and more, as well as cinnamon rolls, Nutella rolls and banana pudding. A single serving of cobbler with a scoop of ice cream is $7. The Smyrna store is open from 12–8 p.m. every day.

BY BRACKEN MAYO FIREHOUSE SUBS opened a new loca-

tion at 2445 Memorial Blvd., the second Firehouse Subs location in Murfreesboro, on Aug. 7. This makes the sixth Firehouse Subs restaurant franchise for Murfreesboro resident Mark Watson. Watson discovered the Firehouse Subs brand while on vacation with his family and opened his first store in Smyrna over 10 years ago. Firehouse chief mural artist Joe Puskas painted a mural for the new location depicting the nearby Walter Hill Dam. The new location will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, serving hot ham, turkey, beef and cheddar brisket, and other sub varieties.

The lot on Lowery Street in Smyrna just across from the Nissan plant, which long held a roadside barbecue smoker, now contains TACO STATION. A new construction project on Northfield Boulevard next to Marco’s Pizza has posted a

sign promoting the upcoming arrival of TJ’S DONUTS and SPEED COIN LAUNDRY. HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER,

a national chain of tutoring centers with locations all over the U.S., has recently opened a Murfreesboro franchise.

GRANDY’S has opened for business on

28 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

A banner hanging above the former Your Burger space on Thompson Lane promotes a new Mediterranean restaurant, coming soon.

CLOSING CORNER Just a couple of months following the opening of a new indoor trampoline attraction across town, JUMPSTREET INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK has closed its Murfreesboro location. The closing does not only affect the Murfreesboro Jumpstreet, however. Locations across the country have issued notices that “we have closed our doors until further notice.” However, the main company website, gotjump.com, stated that Jumpstreet is permanently closed. TASTY TABLE AND OLIVE BRANCH BAKERY, just featured in the August 2020

South Church Street near Koji Express. The restaurant serves fried chicken, roasted chicken, country fried steak and chicken tenders every day, along with green beans, corn, fried okra and more, as well as rotating daily specials like pot roast, fried catfish, chicken and dumplings, roasted turkey, sweet potato casserole, cornbread dressing and white beans. Grandy’s is also open for breakfast with bacon and eggs, chicken and waffles and sausage and biscuits. A meat and three is $9.50. The LOCAL TACO will take over the former Dog Haus building on Broad Street. The Local Taco currently has restaurants in Brentwood and in Huntsville and Florence, Alabama. It will offer $4 tacos, available varieties including Nashville hot chicken, Korean barbecue, shrimp, fish, steak, carnitas and more, as well as salads, quesadillas and guacamole.

Staff at Huntington Centers tutor all ages, from kindergarten students to adults, in study skills, reading, phonics, spelling, vocabulary, math, science and more. The center offers preparation for the SAT, ACT, GED and other exams and for college and aims to help its students master new concepts and succeed in school and life. According to Huntington, its students make great progress in a short period of time and the center helps its clients raise their SAT score by an average of 248 points and their ACT score by an average of 5.9 points. The Murfreesboro location is located at 2812 Old Fort Pkwy., Suite K. For more information, call 615-624-9033.

CLEAN EATZ, a restaurant chain with a heavy presence in North and South Carolina, will take over the former Zoe’s Kitchen location on Medical Center Parkway. The cafe, specializing in natural, lower-calorie offerings, will offer wraps, bowls, fish, salads, smoothies and more. Find Buffalo cauliflower, a variety of protein and fruit-packed smoothies, and turkey, salmon, black bean and bison burgers on the Clean Eatz menu. In addition to cafe and catering services, the company, launched in Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2011, offers meal plans, a podcast, coaching services and other elements designed to help customers and followers lead a healthy lifestyle.

edition of the Murfreesboro Pulse, will close to dine-in service. Owners Laura Gossett and Jacqueline Edwards announced that Aug. 29 will be the last day for the restaurant portion of their business. “We’re still open for business, just not as a restaurant,” Gossett said. “COVID has hurt us. We can’t continue losing money.” But out of the same building, at 215 N. Church St., the duo will offer “catering and special orders and cakes and desserts and all of the things you need for a great event,” Gossett said. “We’ll continue to run the building as an event venue,” Edwards said, adding that they can also offer a space for scheduled breakfast meetings and lunch meetings as well as casseroles and personal meal prep for pick-up. “We are still here and still able to serve you,” Edwards said.

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Opinion Live Exceptionally...Well! BY JENNIFER DURAND

Get Maximum Mileage WHAT DO YOU DO when your vehicle won’t run, or loses performance? You probably look it over or take it to a mechanic or car specialist who checks all the essential fluids, belts, filters and anything else relating to your car’s ability to run—or run better. What about when it looks dirty or gets dinged up? You probably wash it, vacuum it maybe even wax it. If it’s damaged, you may take it to a body shop to make it look as good as new. Even in the midst of mechanical errors or dings many vehicles will still perform, but not at full capacity. They also won’t get the maximum mileage if they are not maintained to some degree. Some drive clunkers (affectionately dubbed, when that’s all you’ve got), others drive top-of-theline models; most drive something somewhere in between. Regardless of what your vehicle looks or sounds like it will usually get you from point A to point B. Our bodies are much like cars. In order to get peak performance and maximum output (or mileage), we need to do consistent maintenance. Your body will do what you ask it to, but only to the best of its ability based on how you take care of it. “If you don’t take care of your body, where will you live?”

half your body weight in ounces of water. Example: if you weigh 150 lbs, drink 75 oz of water daily. • Rest. Get solid sleep. Proper sleep enables optimal performance and clarity of mind when awake. MIND • Invest in useful knowledge. Read something of value every day. Educate yourself. • Don’t indulge in gossip. • Dismiss negative selftalk. When you’re tempted to think the worst of yourself, replace that thought with something you think a good friend or family member would say about you instead. Write these down and refer to them when you’re feeling low. • Ask questions. Don’t assume things. Get clarity. • When you’re hurt or angry—observe and notice. Life is trying to teach you something. • Eliminate worry. How something ends up never depends on how much you worry about it. When you find yourself worrying, breathe deeply and shift your thinking to be present with what is.

“Our bodies are much like cars. In order to get peak performance and maximum output, (or mileage) we need to do consistent maintenance.”

I will share a few of my favorites things to do to maximize your mileage: BODY • Get a spa body scrub treatment. This is like a deep cleansing, buff and polishing for your body. • Get a deep cleansing facial. Remove surface layers of dull skin and reveal your skin’s natural beauty. • Get a massage. Restore tense, tired muscles to a more relaxed state. You’ll be able to handle more with greater ease. • Eat sensibly. Turn your food options into fuel for your body. Consume lean proteins and lots of greens, with minimal or no processed foods or sugar-added items. Eat smaller portions. Stop eating before you are full. Drink a glass of water 10–20 minutes before your meal. Don’t eat right before going to bed. • Drink water daily. A good rule of thumb is drink 30 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

SPIRIT • Allow yourself to evolve and grow. Eliminate the things that don’t help you do this! • Create a life that feels good on the inside, not one that just looks good on the outside. • Learn the art of sitting still and doing nothing. This builds inner calm. • Be guided by Spirit, not driven by Ego. • Let your faith be bigger than your fears. • Be forgiving. Be patient. Be thoughtful. “To find peace sometimes you have to be willing to lose your connection with people, places and things that create all the noise in your life.” Jennifer Durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook Day Spa & Gift Shoppe; a certified QiGong and Breathe Empowerment instructor, and is licensed in massage therapy, body work and somatic integration. Visit nurturenook.com or call 615-896-7110.

Reaction to COVID Puts the Virus into Slow Motion VIEWS OF A

CONSERVATIVE

PHIL VALENTINE

philvalentine.com

had another son come down with coronavirus. That makes two out of three. The first was back in March. He’s made a full recovery except for his sense of smell. It’s not completely back, but it’s getting there. The second son is almost over it and close to the end of his quarantine period. I was thinking about the grandmothers on both sides of our family. These two boys of mine are the only ones actually safe enough to visit them. Then I started thinking what a great place to be that is. Can you imagine no longer being afraid of this virus? Can you imagine no longer needing to wear a mask? Don’t get the wrong idea. I’m not suggesting everybody get this thing. It can be lethal for some people, but we pretty much know who. You have an elevated risk of death if you have underlying health issues, if you’re elderly or if you’re obese. What a fortunate thing to know. We’re not that lucky with most viruses. The Spanish flu killed indiscriminately. The average age of death was 27. Even so, they didn’t shut down the entire economy. Large gatherings were canceled, but they never shut down restaurants or retail stores. Historians point to three waves of the Spanish flu, but it was primarily the so-called second wave that made it so deadly. World War I ended and troops carrying the virus returned to their homelands. American soldiers quickly spread the virus across our country and an estimated 675,000 people died. Most of that was over a three-month period in the last quarter of 1918.

By the summer of 1919 the disease was pretty much gone. Despite everything we’ve tried to do we’re seeing the same trajectory for COVID. Only this time we’re prolonging the misery. This is the first time in history that we’ve quarantined healthy people. What is generally a three-month ordeal has turned into six with no end in sight because we’ve put the virus into slow motion. These viruses seem to have minds of their own. They reach a certain infection level and then they’re done. Herd immunity. With Spanish flu it was about a third of the world’s population. If COVID is similar then we have a ways to go. I don’t want to get coronavirus, and I’m not encouraging you to purposely get it either, but it appears the virus is going to infect a certain percentage of the population before it’s gone. By hiding otherwise healthy people from it we’re merely delaying the inevitable. I know you’re hoping we get a vaccine before a third of the population is infected, but how is the vaccine any different from herd immunity? In other words, if the healthy among us already had it, a vaccine wouldn’t be necessary. And there could be negative health effects from a vaccine. I’ve written here about all the studies that show vitamin D deficiency being linked to bad cases of COVID. It’s almost criminal that our socalled health experts haven’t been telling everybody to get their vitamin D levels checked. Low vitamin D is the source of so many other illnesses it would not be bad advice even if we weren’t fighting COVID. Why they’re not mentioning it is beyond me. But we never stop hearing about the masks. It’s almost as if they’re wanting to see how pliable we are. We want to survive it if we get it, but we can’t continue to run and hide. We have to stop allowing this virus to control our lives.

I’ve written here about all the studies that show vitamin D deficiency being linked to bad cases of COVID. It’s almost criminal that our so-called health experts haven’t been telling everybody to get their vitamin D levels checked.

Phil Valentine is heard each weekday afternoon on SuperTalk 99.7FM in Nashville and online at 997wtn.com. For more of his commentary and articles, visit philvalentine.com. BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2020 * 31

BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2020 * 31

BUSINESS MOMENTUM BY BLAINE LITTLE

Online Professional Networking Opportunities Though growth may be stifled, businesses still have to develop.

32 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

WHEN YOU HEAR SOMEONE LIKE best-selling author Gary Vaynerchuk talk about “business development,” he is usually referring to sales. Or from his perspective at least, all of the marketing aspects that lead up to the point of sale—advertising, public relations, product promotion and social media. But depending on the business model, a key

tool to marketing, and to growing a business in general, is that of personal networking. There are some great opportunities to do just that, right here in Murfreesboro. Until recently, many of these meetings have been offered as breakfast gatherings or over lunch. But these get-togethers are more than just exchanging cards. It is a chance to make true relationships and gain the insight to help grow your business. One such group is Rutherford Cable, which boasts over 250 members. “Cable is the premier leadership organization for women’s professional advancement,” says the group’s Missy Lay. This group still meets with limited occupancy, and conducts facilitated networking, both at the table and through the use of breakout rooms online. Local insurance agent Josh Minton was one of the founders of another professional networking group in 2017, Connect Nashville. “We decided to start a meeting of our own that focused on building genuine relationships. We saw a real need in the networking community for helping people connect without wanting something directly in return,” Minton says. “We genuinely just want to see other people grow.” Nashville Connect has several chapters that meet throughout Middle Tennessee, including one in Murfreesboro. Many have gone online, though Murfreesboro is starting to meet in person again. Feel free to drop in any Monday morning at 9 a.m. at BoomBozz Craft Pizza on Medical Center Parkway. Owing to the pandemic, it has been hard for entrepreneurs to get out and connect with other professionals who might be able to help promote business. For this reason, a lot of local networking groups have gone online. This is a good alternative for those who are still anxious about venturing too far from home or the shop. Truth be told, the internet is a networking medium that should have been better utilized long before COVID. “It certainly was an adjustment at first, but our leadership team has come together to help the meetings run smoothly and assist those who may not have ever used Zoom before,” Minton says. The lack of travel time and big meals can make Zoom meetings even more convenient for busy professionals. Says Jim Furbush, account representative with ITEX and a board member with the Nashville Association of Sales Professionals (NASP), “This new way to network has allowed me to do business out of the area and occasionally out of the state. Even if we don’t do business with each other directly,

having a large number of familiar businesses to refer makes me a resource and keeps me in contact with a lot of people.” Murfreesboro business owner Luis Roque is this year’s president of the Rutherford Independent Networking Group, or RING. “RING is a great place to build lasting relationships with fellow Rutherford County business professionals. We really wanted to create a space where people could learn about each other’s businesses and help each other succeed,” Roque says. Though the organization has recently had to meet over the internet, it is still very active. Another aspect of business development, is, of course, the professional development and education that many business professionals receive from networking groups. Many will offer an educational component on goal setting, better communication, leadership skills, stress management, professional etiquette, marketing and all of those aspects that do lead up to a point of sale. For this, another worthwhile group to check out is the Nashville Networking Business Luncheon. They meet in-person for lunch at Jonathan’s Grille on Medical Center Parkway the third Friday of the month and online every Tuesday. Two things are certain: online meetings are here to stay, and (fortunately) COVID is not. The two main resources for growth are time and money. Some may have more time on their hands than they wish, so now is when to take advantage of it.

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS

by attending webinars, reading a business book, or visiting some of these fine online networking groups:

NASP nashville-nasp.org RING networkingrutherford.com C-Suite unstuckbusinessacademy.com /c-suite Cable rutherfordcable.org NNBL nashvillenetworkingbusiness luncheon.com Connect Nashville facebook.com/groups /connectnashville Living Sent Ministries livingsentministries.org Business Network International bni.com

Sports

 BLUE RAIDERS

 FITNESS

Blue Raiders to Open Season at Army, Adds Two Games Against Troy in 2020 ALTHOUGH MANY MAJOR COLLEGE Rasul, have joined the Blue Raiders backfield football programs across the country have for 2020. This duo will join Chaton Mobley announced they will postpone or cancel fall and Jayy McDonald to add some competition sports, Middle Tennessee State University, and at the running back position. all of Conference-USA (with the exception of MTSU’s quarterback, Asher O’Hara, led the Virginia’s Old Dominion), have confirmed that team in rushing in 2019. they will hold a 2020 football season. O’Hara ended his first year as a starter Following a few schedule changes, MTSU with 2,616 passing yards and 20 touchdowns, will open its season on Sept. 5 against the while also adding a team-best 1,058 rushing Army Black Knights at the U.S. Military Acadyards and nine scores. He became just the emy in West Point, New York. The marks the second quarterback in school history to top first meeting between the two teams. the 1,000-yard rushing mark. The Blue Raiders originally had Virginia Jimmy Marshall, a 6-foot-5 wide receiver Tech and Duke on the 2020 schedule, but for MTSU, is excited about his senior camchanges to Atlantic Coast Conference rules paign in 2020. prohibited those two teams from playing “I think it will be my best year,” Marshall MTSU. Indiana State and Connecticut both said. “I believe I will be way better than last announced they would not hold a 2020 seayear. I haven’t shown half of what I can do.” son, taking two more games from the planned Marshall posted six touchdowns in 2019 MTSU slate. and finished the season However, MTSU strong with 16 catches in added two games with his last three games. Troy University in 2020: “Jimmy has grown one in Murfreesboro so much mentally and SEPT. 5 on Sept. 19 and one in physically,” receivers Army at West Point, New York Alabama on Nov. 21, coach Austin Silvoy rekindling a rivalry in said. “He started putting SEPT. 19 that series. everything together. Troy at Murfreesboro “It is unique to play Jimmy started to realize OCT. 3 one opponent twice in a that he has all the tools, Western Kentucky season, but this worked he’s been through all the at Murfreesboro for both of us,” MTSU training, figured out how Director of Athletics to use his body better OCT. 10 Chris Massaro said. and the light came on Florida International “There is a lot of history and he went full steam at Miami, Florida with Middle Tennessee ahead [in 2019]. His OCT. 17 and Troy.” passion for the game has North Texas at Murfreesboro MTSU leads the increased in all facets, all-time series with Troy on the field, in the film OCT. 24 12–8 and since 2003 the room, the weight room,” Rice at Houston, Texas teams have battled for a Silvoy said. “He finally NOV. 7 trophy known as The Palgot to see the fruits of Charlotte at Murfreesboro ladium, which currently his labor last season. He resides in Murfreesboro is fast for his size. He NOV. 14 since the teams’ last catches the ball really Marshall University at game in 2012. well and he is getting Huntington, West Virginia The MTSU Blue smarter and smarter as a NOV. 21 Raiders will open Cfootball player.” Troy at Troy, Alabama USA play on Saturday, Oct. 3, against rival For tickets, videos, NOV. 28 Western Kentucky. news and more details Florida Atlantic University Two transfers, Maron MTSU athletics, at Murfreesboro tell Pettaway and Amir visit goblueraiders.com.

2020 MTSU BLUE RAIDERS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Variations on a Bear Crawl BY BRACKEN MAYO MURFREESBORO PERSONAL TRAINER JIM GENET wants to emphasize that wherever people may be, whether they are stuck at home, indoors or out, with or without access to a gym or expensive fitness equipment, they can always move and engage their body. He says one of his favorite exercises that requires absolutely no equipment is the bear crawl. “You can really work almost every muscle in the body with the bear crawl,” Genet says. Slowly moving through the stride, and then playing with slight modifications and variations to the crawl, one can shift weight from shoulders to chest to core to arms to wrists to butt to legs to back. Start with a traditional bear crawl; get on all fours and start crawling. (But unlike the bear, keep your longer human legs bent at the knee. Hover the knees just above the ground, and push forward with one foot.) “Keep your tailbone pointed straight back. Don’t sway side to side,” Genet advises. “Engage the core.” After a few crawls, identify what part of your body nears exhaustion. Vary it up so you can relax those muscles. With all four hands and feet on the ground, bend at the waist and keep the legs straight. This posture, as close to a pike as possible, can really provide a good stretch to the hamstrings, one client notes. Try the water skeeter. Hold your arms and legs as far out to the side as possible, making an “X.”

Perform some crawls where you reach a hand as far out in front of the body that you can. Flip over into a crab position with the back facing the ground and the front of the body aimed towards the sky. Hold a pose and really stretch the hips, hamstrings or calves. Spin around in a circle on all fours. Go downhill. Go uphill. Go downhill backwards. Go uphill backwards. Go low. Go high. If you are ready for an additional challenge, crawl down a slide, or up a waterfall. Or do a push-up after each stride. Pop up into a handstand after a long crawl if you can. Or bear-crawl with weights, or a small person, on your back. Go ahead—crawl around a little, try a few modifications, and see if that indeed feels about like a full-body workout in just a few minutes. What’s your variation? Comment at boropulse.com/bearcrawl or at facebook.com/ boropulse. For more information on movement and personal training options, call or text Jim Genet at 615-427-3406. BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2020 * 33

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NO FANS IN SEPTEMBER

Tannehill Needs a Better History Lesson, No Fans at Titans Games in September THE TRAIN DADDY IS BACK with sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk. Before I say anything else let me say this: Tennessee Titans Quarterback Ryan Tannehill made some rather shameful comments recently. He has a right to speak out, and it appears that the organization, from the players to the staff, have no problem with the 100-million-dollar man being the organizational mouthpiece. Tannehill recently stated that America was founded upon “racist ideas” and that those ideas have persisted throughout the last 200 years. Sadly, the paradigm is that America is and always has been racist. So, it is easy for athletes and celebrities to jump aboard this train and ride it to dumbass-ville! To say America was created upon racist ideas shows me your complete misunderstanding of the past. The Declaration of Independence states “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Unfortunately, the country was not yet living up to those ideals in 1776, with slavery being common in a young America. Fortunately, the founders set such high ideals when this country was born that we realized we were lacking. It was the basis of the principals that America was founded upon that ultimately helped end slavery. The fact is that America was founded 34 * SEPTEMBER 2020 * BOROPULSE.COM

upon freedom, and Ryan Tannehill’s speech to Tennessee fans, residents of Nashville and Tennessee’s youth—made just after the team skipped a day of practice, to protest “systematic oppression,” as Tannehill says— is shameful. The Titans decided to skip practice the day after NBA teams boycotted league games as a statement of solidarity against police violence.

POLITICAL INTERFERENCE We live in a hypersensitive time, and when people begin saying America was founded on racist ideas and is still to this day racist to its core, what is the only option? Well that option is what many of today’s radicals want: America must be destroyed and created anew. And that concerns me. So, the advice to the quarterback of my team? Enjoy the freedoms that allow you, and players of color, the opportunity to make hundreds of millions of dollars, not to mention the freedoms that allowed your wife to leave your AR-15 in the back of a

Mayor John Cooper

rental car with no repercussions. God bless America and God bless the Titans! Alright, enough of that, I really hate starting an article off the week before the season kicks off bashing something my QB said. Those comments have nothing to do with Tannehill’s play on the field or the domination that King Henry, A.J. Brown and the play-action will bring in 2020. The media, ESPN and the world have kind of made it impossible today for us not to discuss race and politics when regarding sports. This is not creating healthy dialogue. My personal experience with social media, reallife friends and random sports junkies in the world leads me to believe that many are sick of this political activism being stuffed down their throats. And that is why I will end this talk here with an apology for bringing it all up. We are all so sick of it. I hope that once football kicks off we can all just come together for the love of the game! I promise you I am trying my best. Hell, I just bought a custom-made Titans jersey with Z-TRAIN on the back!

“Mayor John Cooper, who walked with protesters during the height of COVID as they burned the city that evening, is the same mayor telling law-abiding, cash-spending Titans fans that football be damned, announcing that Titans games in Nashville, at least in the month of September, will be played in empty stadiums.”

I might as well continue complaining as we move down this article, right? And why wouldn’t I complain about Nashville’s Mayor John Cooper and his decision regarding the Titans. No beating around the bush here. Mayor Cooper was not only okay with the protests in Nashville this past May, he also urged people to come out during spikes in COVID-19. The day Mayor Cooper was walking hand in hand with protesters was the same day protesters later destroyed property and set the historic courthouse on fire in downtown Nashville. So, you would assume the man who recently raised Davidson County property taxes 34% would be okay with, oh, let’s say 25 percent capacity at Titans stadium for the opening game, especially since this decision was made when Nashville was reporting a decrease in COVID cases. Well, you would be wrong! Mayor John Cooper, who walked with protesters during the height of COVID as they burned the city that evening, is the same mayor telling law-abiding, cashspending Titans fans that football be damned, announcing that Titans games in Nashville, at least in the month of September, will be played in empty stadiums. Titans officials did not voice much public opposition to the decision to ban fans from the stadium. Alright, my friends, that is it. I am wrapping this up. I am sorry I was not more positive. I think it was just necessary, for me, to get that out this month. At least you, the reader, know where I stand. I pray that the next issue after the Titans have started the season and played a few games I will be able to hopefully give you nothing but a Titans football article with no controversial crap in between. I love my team, my Titans, and I love this country with a passion I feel most people do not understand. If that makes me an oddity, whatever! I wish you all the best. The Train is rolling into the station. Choo-choo! BOROPULSE.COM

* SEPTEMBER 2020 * 34

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