February 2025 Murfreesboro Pulse

inside

the journey home / Eagle scouts / real film / Blue Bloods in the Round / free act / and more! celebrating 20 years: 2006–2025 February 2025 / Vol. 20, Issue 2 / free

living

John McGill Hosts Monthly Card Collectors Show at Ramada Inn

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

symphony

Love

food

Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra Shares Symphonic Sounds With Community

Find Flavorful, Warm Pasta Perfection at La Cucina Italiana

Explore

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Contents

Features

ON THE COVER: Tennessee Philharmonic Photo

by Ken Norberg

25

14

14

symphony love

Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra shares symphonic sounds.

18

honky tonk heroes

Local country singer-songwriters chasing the neon rainbow at Hank’s.

20

trip to the mountains

Fun, free family-friendly things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

in every issue

6 Events

calendar Valentine Cookie Decorating, Book It, Step Into Art, Dim Sum High Tea, Winds Winter Concert, Oreo Festival and more!

12 Sounds

26

concerts music notes Blue Bloods in the Round

The Journey Home coordinates men’s and women’s shelters on freezing nights.

album SkyFlowers

coldest nights

32

eagle scout honors 12 local youth achieve rank.

23 Living Nature Couples in nature

mr.

Murfreesboro Card collector and exhibit host John McGill

25 Art

movie Smyrna High feature film, Real exhibit Bert Gilbert and Steve Ward at Todd Gallery

28 Food restaurant La Cucina Italiana

30 News

business buzz Tennessee Whiskers, White Monkey Market,

Sign up for the Pulse Weekly Digital Newsletter

BoroPulse.com/Newsletter Copy Editor: Steve Morley Ad Representative: Nneka Sparks Contributors: Tiffany Boyd Jennifer Durand Delores Elliott Paul Engel Byron Glenn Bryce Harmon

Laura Lindsay Zach Maxfield Sean Moran Elisha Nelson Matthew Olson Andrea Stockard Bill Wilson

High Society, nékter Juice Bar and more

33 Opinion Constitution study Right to remain silent free your children The FREE Act introduced in Tennessee Tech talk Your phone is listening, and taking notes sports talk Who will the Titans draft with first pick? money matters Portfolio potential living . . . well!

Love is alive

follow online /BoroPulse @BoroPulse

Publisher/Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo Associate Editor: Sarah Mayo

20

carry the Pulse at your business or to submit letters, stories and photography: bracken@boropulse.com

@BoroPulse The Murfreesboro Pulse

Copyright © 2025, 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

When the going gets tough, when the hours get long, when the body, mind and spirit get tired, if you are working towards a noble goal, may you pursue your tasks with some joy and enthusiasm and encouragement.

Even if I begin to feel exhausted and start to lose steam, if things aren’t exactly falling into place, I try to keep in mind that as long as you are making moves that support your family, provide a quality product or honorable service for your customers, clean the house, improve yourself or your situation, or serve others, you should find the joy and happiness in it. Count it all joy when you fall into various trials.

We have Chiefs vs. Eagles II coming up this month, another Super Bowl rematch. For almost a year, most of the time since last Super Bowl, I thought the Chiefs were on track for the threepeat. The Eagles have been so dominant, though, that I am beginning to lean Philly at the moment.

Luckily, there’s a robust community of creatives and a wide variety of musical styles here in the ’Boro— symphonic sounds from the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra, Tennessee Valley Winds and the Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta; country music should continue to fill the air around Hank’s Honky Tonk, despite that business’ recent sale; SkyFlowers and other creators generate some electronic beats, bleeps, glitches and swells; Boro Bourbon & Brews hosts live local music nearly every night on the Murfreesboro Public Square; consider checking out some of the excellent free jazz and classical performances at MTSU; Rockin Country will be out at the Oreo Fest on March 1.

For many, this community remains a pretty good spot to be. Check out the Pulse for more—it’s what’s going on.

Many Tennessee home-school families and other freedom-seeking individuals—in the midst of increasing talk of accountability and standards and money, pertaining to education—have launched an effort in the Tennessee General Assembly to completely sever home-school families from governmental oversight. Many families want to protect their ability to educate their children without state interference.

This bill, when passed, will create a new, separate and distinct category of education for families who do not wish to participate in public schools, private schools, charter schools nor vouchers, and home schoolers will be exempt from Tennessee’s “compulsory school attendance, as well as from all other educational laws, rules, and requirements established by this state or by a local government or agency in this state,” according to bill language.

Stay tuned for more on the Family Right to Educational Emancipation (FREE) Act. Keep on learning; keep on hustling. Cook something new, walk somewhere new, read something new, draw something new, discover something new. Spend some time with the loved ones.

Hang in there for the last bit of winter; gardening time and the time change are right around the corner.

Remember to get those traditional heart-shaped pizzas and doughnuts for your love this Valentine’s.

Hit me up if you would like a Pulse T-shirt, or if you’d like to see your business or organization in the Pulse.

Peace!

Bracken Mayo Publisher/Editor in Chief

events calendar ››› February 2025 ››› by Andrea STOCKARD Feb. 4 and 28

(2412 E Main St.). Connect with other writers in a relaxed setting, and even sit down and write for a bit if you’re so inspired. Come and go anytime. Sponsored by the literary interest group of the Rutherford Arts Alliance, Poetry in the Boro and MTSU Write, this event is free and open to writers of all genres and experience levels (including “thinking about writing”). There will be a 10-minute program of writerly inspiration offered by this month’s host, local author Taffeta Chime, at 3:45 p.m. RSVPs are requested. For more information, visit rutherfordartsalliance.org and find “Happenings”.

Boro Books n’ Brews Boro Books n’ Brews is a book club that meets at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Feb. 4 and 18, at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). For more information, visit middlegroundbrew.com.

Feb. 5, 12 and 26 All Ages Story Time Come out to Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) for All Ages Story Time Wednesdays Feb. 5, 12 and 26 from 10–11 a.m. Read stories, sing songs and play games to enhance early literacy. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Feb. 9 Cedar Glade Classic Car Cruise-In

Feb. 6 and 20 Tales to Tails Join Tales to Tails, a heartwarming library program at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W), designed to combine the joy of reading with the therapeutic benefits of spending time with dogs, on Thursdays Feb. 6 and 20 from 3–4:40 p.m. In this paw-some program, participants are invited to read aloud to the friendly therapy dogs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Ten-minute slots are available on Feb. 6 and 20 starting at 3 p.m. All ages are welcome. Advance registration is required. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 615-4594884 or email smyrnays@rclstn.org.

Feb. 8

Feb. 8 book signing with Local Author Eliana Kashierski Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) hosts local author Eliana Kashierski for a book signing on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Kashierski will sign and sell copies of her books The Adventures of Petunia the Hummingbird and Baby’s First Plane Ride, What to Do? The Adventures of Petunia the Hummingbird is a true story about an unusual friendship between the author and a hummingbird. Baby’s First Plane Ride, which is also available in Spanish, is a book for parents that offers tips to help babies have a comfortable flight experience. Kashierski has been a teacher but is a fashion designer at heart. She is an inventor and holds two US patents. Kashierski loves nature and used to spend a lot of her time in the mountains while living near the Huascaran National Park in Peru. She always enjoys watching and talking to the birds and animals and thanks God for His magnificent creation. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

Bookin’ It Audiobooks are a great way to read.

Listen to your audiobook, then talk about it on the walk around the library in Old Rock School Park (400 Enon Springs Rd. W, Smyrna) on Saturday, Feb. 8, from noon–2 p.m. Check out an audiobook on CD or mp3 from the library, or visit Libby or Hoopla to find an e-audiobook to listen to. Themes will be released monthly; no registration is required. For more information, email smyref@rclstn.org.

creating the change they would like to see in their library and their community on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 2–3 p.m. at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W). T.A.B. meets on the second Saturday of every month at 2 p.m. to share ideas and information regarding the teen space, collection, programming and vision for the future. Snacks are provided; no advance registration is required. For more information, call 615459-4884 or visit rclstn.org.

Feb. 8

Feb. 8

Teen Advisory Board

Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating at Oflow

Teen Advisory Board (T.A.B.) is open to anyone ages 13–18 who is interested in 6 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

OFLOW (Overflow – Brews & Bakes, 115

N. Maple St.) hosts a Valentine’s cookie decorating event on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Decorate a cookie for $5 or 3 cookies for $10. OFLOW provides all the candies, sprinkles, and icing and does the cleanup. A photo selfie booth will be set up for Valentine’s memories. No reservations needed—just show up before cookies are sold out. For more information, find Oflow (Overflow Brews and Bakes) on Facebook.

Feb. 9 Creative Writers Mingle This first monthly mingle for creative writers meets on Sunday, Feb. 9, from 3–5 p.m. at the Dapper Owl Coffee Pub

Shine ‘er up and drive ‘er in at the Cedar Glade Brews (906 Ridgely Rd.) second Sunday of the month classic car cruisein on Sunday, Feb. 9, from 1–4 p.m.

Car-ticipants get a free CGB pint (1 per car). Stick around for trivia at 5 p.m.

There is no sign-up required and no cost to participate. For more information, visit cedargladebrews.com or find the CGB Classic Car Cruise-In event on Facebook.

Feb. 10 and 24 Lego Block Party Lego Block Party is a fun and engaging after-school program at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W), where imagination knows no bounds.

Designed for kids of all ages, this biweekly program on Fridays Feb. 10 and 24 invites children to come together and build amazing creations using a collection of Lego bricks. Bring your enthusiasm and creativity from 3:15–3:45 p.m.; no registration is needed. Programs close 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Feb. 11 Tennessee Trails Association Meeting The Tennessee Trails Association’s monthly meeting of its Murfreesboro chapter is set for Tuesday, Feb. 11, from 7–8 p.m. at the Wilderness Station at continued on page 7

continued from page 6 Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.). Chapter member Joe Campbell shares his adventure hiking the Camino Frances in Spain. For more information, visit tennesseetrails.org.

Feb. 11 Living Sent Ministries Living Sent Murfreesboro will hold its February meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 11, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wilson Bank & Trust (3110 Memorial Blvd.). Mike Sanchez knows what it means to live sent. Sanchez built a successful HVAC company, but he gave the business to his employees when the Lord called him to full-time work at his local church. This month’s guest speaker, Leigh Walls, is the managing director of purchasing and supply management for CoreCivic, a corrections solutions and government services provider headquartered in Brentwood.

Walls will be sharing her story of learning to pivot and follow God’s path and plan, even (and especially) when it doesn’t follow the plan she had envisioned. A complimentary lunch is provided by Brenda Marshall and Churchill Mortgage, and prepared by Jim Trasport of Budget Blinds of Murfreesboro. All are invited to this free luncheon. To RSVP, email bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.

Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day Craft All ages are invited to craft to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Library Lover’s Day on Friday, Feb 14, from 10–11 a.m. Join Youth Services at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) and make your own library love bug. Take part in a write-your-library-a-love-letter and a passive Valentine’s card craft. All ages are welcome. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Feb. 15 Dim Sum High Tea OFLOW (Overflow – Brews & Bakes, 115 N. Maple St.) presents a special Dim Sum Asian-Style High Tea Party on Saturday, Feb. 15. The shop will have two seatings for the 90-minute experience at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Celebrate the Chinese Lunar Near Year festival at OFLOW with this special party offering small bites of traditional sweets and savories paired with freshly brewed tea varieties. Dress for Asian festivities—red and gold are good-luck colors for spring festival celebrations. The cost is $30 per person. To register, find an event page for the Dim Sum Asian-Style High

Feb. 21 Tennessee Valley Winds Winter Concert The Tennessee Valley Winds holds the next concert of its 40th anniversary season on Friday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. at the MTSU Wright Music Building (1439 Faulkinberry Dr.).

Guest conductor Dr. Brad Snow and the second winner of the High School Concerto Competition, Ellie Grossman, perform the first movement of Francis Poulenc‘s Sonata for Flute and Piano. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit tnvalleywinds.org or find TnValleyWinds on Facebook.

Tea Party on the Oflow (Overflow Brews and Bakes) Facebook page or call 615900-1676 for more information.

and energy. Networking begins at 5 p.m. with introductions at 6 p.m. Champy’s is located at 1290 NW Broad St.

health and care, rider health, stable management and horsemanship. For more information, visit southernequineexpo.com.

Feb. 15

Feb. 21

Feb. 22

All Ages Crafternoon

Homeschool Art Class

Saturday Storytime

All Ages Crafternoon is held the third Saturday of the month (Feb. 15) from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W).

Express your creativity through arts and crafts. Some months will feature a pre-planned craft, and some months the activity will be free-form. While geared toward children, all ages are invited.

Programs close 10 minutes after start time. For more information, call 615459-4884 or visit rclstn.org.

Smyrna Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) presents Homeschool Art on Friday, Feb. 21 from 10–11 a.m. This class explores a notable artist and their art. Afterwards, get out the art supplies and make your own “inspired by” work. In this session, learn about Vincent van Gogh. Ages 7 and older are welcome. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) presents Saturday Storytime every fourth Saturday (Feb. 22) from 3–3:30 p.m. Bring the family, enjoy a story and all the library has to offer. There is no cost to attend and no registration is required. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 615459-4884 or visit rclstn.org.

Feb. 21–23

Feb. 22

Southern Equine Expo

Novel Nerds

The Southern Equine Expo returns to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304 W. Thompson Ln.) from Feb. 21–23 for its second decade, presented by Mustang Leadership Partners. The expo continues to stay true to the core mission: dedicated to every horseman. The goal is to provide a valuable experience for a wide spectrum of horse enthusiasts from across the Southeast. With over 100 clinics and demonstrations, lectures and more than 90 vendors, the diversity and scope of the Southern Equine Expo attracts horse enthusiasts to Middle Tennessee from across the nation. Learn about horse

Do you consider yourself an avid reader?

Do you read across multiple genres? Do you love the library? If you answered yes to any or all of these three questions, you may be a “Novel Nerd.” Meet monthly at noon in the Smyrna Conference Room (with a virtual option if you cannot attend). Books are provided. For more information, email smyref@rclstn.org.

Feb. 20 The Connection at Champy’s Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the February 2025 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to attend this casual, free, no-obligation networking event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience

 Send community event information to contact@boropulse.com

Feb. 22 FREE Comedy Show Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) presents a free continued on page 8 boropulse.com * February 2025 * 7

Continued from page 7 comedy show on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m., hosted by Mallory Brandon. For more information, visit middleground brew.com.

video games/video game trailer. Shop from over 150 vendors (home decor, boutiques, handmade jewelry and more) while enjoying live music from the Rockin Country Band from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

There is no admission cost to attend and parking is free. Vendor and sponsor applications are available online. For more information, find Brianna Victory Events on Facebook or visit brianna-victoryevents.com.

Feb. 23 Poetry in the Boro Open Mic Poetry in the Boro is Sunday, Feb. 23, at the Dapper Owl Coffee Pub (2412 E Main St.). Open-mic signup is at 5:30 p.m. with the program at 6 p.m. This edition features (and especially invites) Gen X poets. More details can be found at poetryintheboro.org.

Feb. 24 Hooked on Yarn Hooked on Yarn is a space for any fiber crafter (crochet, knitting, embroidery, etc.) to work on projects and talk with other artists at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W). Supplies will be provided, but you can also bring your own. This event meets every fourth Monday (Feb. 24) from 4–5 p.m. in the library’s conference room. Ages 18 and up are welcome. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Feb. 26 Rutherford County Jeep Crew The Rutherford County Jeep Crew has a meet-up at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). All Jeepers are welcome. For more information, visit middlegroundbrew.com.

Feb. 28 After Hours Game Night This is an after-hours program for library patrons 18 and older at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) from 5:30–7 p.m. Each month, meet on the fourth Friday (Feb. 28) after close to play board games and have snacks.

This is a great chance to be “behind the scenes” in your local library. For more information, email smitchem@rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884 to find out what this month’s game will be.

Feb. 28 Homeschool Players Step into the spotlight with Homeschool Players, an exciting class at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) designed to enhance reading fluency through the magic of Reader’s Theater on Friday, Feb. 28 from 10–11 a.m. This interactive program offers home school8 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

Ongoing Special Kids Race Registration

Feb. 24 Murfreesboro Chess Lunch Who wants to play a game of chess? Come out to Carmen’s Taqueria (206 W. Northfield Blvd.) from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 24, for chess, cheese dip and chimichangas. Community members interested in gathering and networking with other area chess enthusiasts to play and discuss chess, promoting the game of chess locally, sharing ideas on how chess can benefit others, or involving their business in chess events and tournaments can come to a Murfreesboro Chess Lunch the fourth Monday of each month at Carmen’s. For more information, find an event page for Murfreesboro Chess Lunch on Facebook, email bracken@boropulse.com or text/call 615-796-6248. ers a unique opportunity to practice and improve their reading skills while having fun. This event is geared towards students with a reading level of 2nd through 5th grade. In each session, students will be introduced to a script or monologue adapted from popular children’s literature or classic tales. Warm up with theater games and at the end of class present the show; no memorization is required. Homeschool Players emphasizes teamwork and creativity, allowing students to collaborate and support one another while developing crucial reading skills. For more information, call 615459-4884 or visit rclstn.org.

information, find 4th Friday Fun*Working on Facebook.

Feb. 28

March 1

4th Friday Fun*Working

Oreo Festival

The monthly “fun working” event at Spread the Positive (906 Ridgely Rd.) is held the fourth Friday of every month from 5–7 p.m., presented by Reed and Associates of Primerica. The event is focused on shining a light on what’s going right. Each month the event highlights a business making a positive impact in the local community and gives the public an opportunity to talk with them. Meet some of your favorite STP podcasters and get to know the people behind the microphone. There will be a food truck onsite, so grab a drink and a bite while you connect with the best in the ’Boro. For more

The Oreo Festival by Brianna Victory Events is scheduled for Saturday, March 1, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at Hop Springs (6790 John Bragg Hwy.), just in time for National Oreo Day. Every booth with black balloons designates that they have either Oreos, an Oreo-themed dessert, Oreo-themed items or Oreo drinks/food.

The first 200 adults get a free goodie bag. The event consists of lots of Oreos, Oreo baked goods, Oreo-themed items, a free petting zoo, reptile bus interaction, inflatables, train rides, 24-foot tall rock climbing wall (make it to the top and win an Oreo prize), face painting and rolling

March 1 Greenhouse Ministries Prayer Meeting Pray for the community and the nation for an hour on Saturdays, Feb. 1 and March 1 (and the first Saturday of each month) at Greenhouse Ministries (307 S. Academy St.) from 8–9 a.m. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 ESV – “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Jesus Christ for you.” For more information, visit greenhousemin.org.

The Special Kids Race is set for Saturday, March 15, with new race experiences for all athletes for 2025. Run, walk or roll race distances of 15K, 10K or 5K, all with new course routes. The 10K and 15K athletes will run to the Stones River National Battlefield Visitor Center, followed by one loop through the National Battlefield itself. The 15K runners will then separate to make their way west into the Park Drive neighborhood and back to Old Nashville Highway to head home. The 10K athletes will return via the Cotton Field Trail on McFadden Lane. The 5K athletes will run to the Stones River National Battlefield Visitor Center and back, via the Cotton Field Trail, before heading to the finish line via Old Nashville Highway. All courses will start and finish at the Murfreesboro Medical Clinic on Garrison Drive. In addition to the race, there will be a fun zone, refreshments, a family fun run and activities for all ages. For more information or to register, visit specialkidsrace .com; learn more about the Special Kids organization at specialkidstn.com.

Ongoing Step into Art at The Discovery Center The Discovery Center (502 SE Broad St.) presents the opening of a new traveling art exhibit, “Framed: Step into Art,” on Saturday, Feb. 1. This exhibit provides visitors with an opportunity to explore interactive environments inspired by famous paintings and will be on display through May 11. This is a traveling exhibit created by the Minnesota Children’s Museum. Visitors can engage with iconic works of art by stepping into immersive environments based on famous paintings. The exhibit features activities centered around iconic works including: Grant Wood’s “Dinner for Threshers,” John Singer Sargent’s “Camp at Lake continued on page 10

 Send community event information to contact@boropulse.com

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Continued from page 8 O’Hara,” Diego Rivera’s “Corn Festival,” Clementine Hunter’s “Big Chicken” and Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa.” This exhibit is included with general admission and is free for museum members.

For more information, call 615-8902300 or visit explorethedc.org.

Ongoing F3 Workouts

MONDAYS

Casual Pint Poker 6 p.m.

Chili’s Broad St. Poker 6 p.m.

Hank’s Open Mic 6 p.m.

Jack Brown’s Trivia 7 p.m.

Level III Trivia 7 p.m.

Smyrna Sports Pub Poker 6 p.m.

The Goat Trivia 7 p.m.

The Fish House Bingo 7 p.m.

TUESDAYS

Happy’s Poker 6:30 p.m.

Jefferson’s Trivia 7 p.m.

MJ’s Bar and Grill Singo 7 p.m.

Nacho’s Trivia 7 p.m.

Red Robin Trivia 7 p.m.

The Fish House Poker 6 p.m.

WEDNESDaY

BoomBozz Trivia 7 p.m.

Campus Pub Karaoke 9 p.m.

Chili’s Broad St. Poker 6 p.m.

El Toro Trivia 7 p.m.

Happy’s Sports trivia HotShotz Poker 2 p.m.

Seasons Karaoke 7–11 p.m.

Station Grill Trivia 7 p.m.

The Boulevard Trivia 7 p.m.

THURSDAYS

Campus Pub Karaoke 9 p.m.

Cedar Glade Brews

Board Games 6 p.m.

Front Street Pub Trivia

Happy’s Trivia 6:30 p.m.

Margaritas Karaoke 6 p.m.

Middle Ground Brewing Co. Trivia 7 p.m.

Smyrna Sports Pub Poker 6 p.m.

Smyrna VFW Post Karaoke 7 p.m.

The Fish House Bingo 7 p.m.

FRIDAYS

615 District Poker 7 p.m.

Handlebar Karaoke 8 p.m.

Campus Pub Karaoke 9 p.m.

Front Street Pub Karaoke 7 p.m.

HotShotz Karaoke Margaritas Karaoke 7 p.m.

Seasons Karaoke 10 p.m.

SATURDAYS

F3—which stands for fitness, fellowship and faith—holds free, outdoor, peer-led workouts for men across the country. The free weekly workout sessions welcome all men and always end with a “circle of trust,” emphasizing the group’s commitment to faith. In Murfreesboro, F3 holds workouts on the Murfreesboro Public Square at 5 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Oakland Middle School (853 Dejarnette Ln.) at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesdays; at the Murfreesboro Medical Clinic/Gateway Island parking lot (1272 Garrison Dr.) at 5 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Old Fort Park (201 Golf Ln., at the north entrance parking lot) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. In Smyrna, F3 meets for workouts at Cedar Grove Elementary (354 Chaney Rd., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Thurman Francis Arts Academy (221 Todd Ln., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Stewarts Creek High School (301 Red Hawk Pkwy., Smyrna) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. The group meets every week, rain or shine, hot or cold. For more information, visit f3murfreesboro.com.

Mondays Silly Song and Dance

Campus Pub Karaoke 9 p.m.

Front Street Pub Karaoke 7 p.m.

Margaritas Karaoke 7 p.m.

Ms. Marian’s Cafe Bingo 5–8 p.m.

Nacho’s Survey Time Showdown 7 p.m.

Seasons Karaoke 10 p.m.

Smyrna Sports Pub Poker 2 p.m.

Join Ms. Nicole for Silly Song and Dance on Mondays from 10–11 a.m. at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W). This is an exciting, highenergy program for all ages. Songs are geared for toddlers and preschoolers to stretch, dance and sing. Learn about shapes, colors, letters, and numbers while singing and dancing. Adult participation is encouraged. Programs close at 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615459-4884.

SUNDAYS

Mondays

615 District Poker 4 p.m.

Cedar Glade Brews Trivia 5–7 p.m.

HotShotz Poker 2 p.m.

Smyrna VFW Post Karaoke 7p.m.

10 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

Technology Coach Bring your phone, tablet and laptop questions to our volunteer Technology Coach and they will help work out the answers on Mondays at 1 p.m. at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.). For more information, visit rclstn.org.

Fridays Murfreesboro Community Chess Murfreesboro Community Chess meets at McAlister’s Deli (2357 Medical Center Pkwy.) every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Organizers invite those of all ages and skill levels to this casual chess meetup each week. Those attending may bring a board and a clock if they can, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.

Mondays

Wednesdays

Monday Night History

Sight Word Snack Attack

The Patriot Institute presents free Monday Night History classes every Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.). The instructor, Galen Walker, formed The Patriot Institute in 2015 and has taught Monday Night History at various locations ever since. Classes started back with the Greek City-States, have progressed through Greece, Rome, the Middle Ages, the Pilgrims, the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and other topics. Monday Night History will continue exploring The War of 1812 in February. For more information, visit thepatriotinstitute.org or find The Patriot Institute on Facebook.

Sight Word Snack Attack is held at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) on Wednesdays from 3:15–3:45 p.m.

Sight Word Snack Attack is a program in which children are given a snack and water, and then play a round of Sight Word Bingo. Children can choose from a variety of fun sight word games to play. This activity is geared toward ages preschool-3rd grade; adult participation is highly recommended. Sight words are common words that kids recognize instantly without sounding them out. Recognizing words by sight helps kids become faster, more fluent readers. This school year focuses on 10 words at a time from the Fry Sight Word list. February words are: there, use, an, each, which, she, do, how, their and if. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Tuesdays Pajama Story Time Pajama Story Time is at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) on Tuesday evenings from 6–6:30 p.m. Children are encouraged to come dressed in their coziest pajamas and bring a stuffed animal friend while listening to stories, singing songs and having lots of fun. Programs close 10 minutes after start time. All ages are welcome.

For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Wednesdays Wild Wednesday Wild Wednesday will take place at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. each Wednesday. Discover something wild about the natural world.

Activities may include meeting a SOAC animal or participating in a nature-based activity. There is no cost to participate,

but registration is suggested through Community Pass. All ages are welcome. For more information, email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org or call 615-459-9710.

Thursdays Baby Time Baby Time at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) is Thursdays in Feb. from 10–11 a.m. This story time is an adventure designed for caregivers and babies aged 0–24 months. Snuggle up for a gentle story, interactive rhymes, singing and sensory play in a supportive environment that fosters early literacy and bonding. Programs close 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Thursdays Basic Computer Usage Basic Computer Usage classes are every Thursday in February, from 5–6 p.m., to learn more about computer usage and the tools you need to succeed at technology at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W, Smyrna).

The recommended age for this event is 13 and up. Any library patron under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an official guardian. No advance registration is required. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Fridays C3 Networking C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Achieve Entrepreneur and CoWorking Center (1630 S. Church St.) held on Fridays from 8:30–10:30 a.m. The mission is to build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support each other’s professional growth and educate people on how to participate in the local com-

munity. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.

Fridays 3D Print Orientation Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) will host 3D Print Orientation on Fridays in February from 11 a.m.–12:30 pm. Class size is limited to four patrons per class; ages 13 and up are welcome. To secure your spot, email smyrna3dprint@rclstn.org.

Fridays intro to TinkerCad Learn how to design 3D printables at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W) on Fridays from 12:30– 1:30 p.m. This is not a 3D printer class or orientation, but a great way to better understand Tinkercad before (or after) you take the orientation. The recommended age for this event is 13 and up; children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a guardian. For more information, visit rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.

Saturdays Historical Society Coffee & Conversation Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting local history since 1971 and aims to be a community resource for those researching their family, property or just old fun facts. The Historical Society hosts Coffee & Conversation on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). This is an informal and informative event. Bring old photos or questions about the past to ask members, and enjoy free coffee and donuts. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org.

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HAPPY HOUR DAILY, 2–6 P.M.

concerts Wed, 2/5

Boro Bourbon & Brews Bronwen Fair

Thurs, 2/6

Boro Bourbon & Brews Delyn Christian MTSU Wright Music Building Sandra Dudley with MTSU Jazz Combo 1

Fri, 2/7

Boro Bourbon & Brews Hammbone Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Grindstone Cowboy Izzy Grace Hank’s Honky Tonk Leigh Hutchins Trio; Jack Finley Band Heroes Den The Fog Hop Springs Leon Long Jack’s Place Tony Castellanos Puckett’s Karli & James seasons of Murfreesboro The Band Moriah Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers TN Craft Butcher Beau Tatum

Sat, 2/8

Boro Bourbon & Brews C.J. Conklin; Eden Storm Hank’s Honky Tonk Mikki Zip Band; Anniston Pate Happy’s Sports Lounge Echo; Robert Foster Heroes Den Bill Mizell Hop Springs Mize & the Drive; Memory Train; Milford Academy Middle Ground Brewing Co. Vagabond Train Puckett’s Joe West Trio

Sun, 2/9

Boro Bourbon & Brews Rattlesnake & Eggs Hank’s Honky Tonk The O’Donnells Hop Springs Da Jam Band

Mon, 2/10

Boro Bourbon & Brews Clint Draper Burger Bar

Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Ethos Jazz; Wind Ensemble Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 2/11

Boro Bourbon & Brews Pepper Brooks Hank’s Honky Tonk Robert Abernathy MTSU Wright Music Building Kevin Class the view at the fountains Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra

Wed, 2/12

Boro Bourbon & Brews Holler Cat Blues Jam Hank’s Honky Tonk Robyn Taylor Hop Springs Valentines Jazz Night

Thurs, 2/13

Boro Bourbon & Brews Milford Academy Hank’s Honky Tonk Cary & Sherrie Lynn Hop Springs Doc Flannel MTSU Wright Music Building Chamber Winds; Wind Ensemble

Fri, 2/14

Boro Bourbon & Brews Carson Mac Band Carmen’s Taqueria Jeff Lysyczyn Cedar Glade Brews The Howlin Embers Grindstone Cowboy Bailey Hyneman Hank’s Honky Tonk Bailey Rose Happy’s Sports Lounge Mixtape ’80s Tribute Band Heroes Den Phil Valdez Hop Springs Taylor’s Thread (James Taylor tribute) Jack’s Place Tony Castellanos MTSU Wright Music Building Annalisa Thomas Puckett’s Damien Horne Trio Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers St. Clair Senior Center The Band Moriah TN Craft Butcher Izzy Grace

12 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

Live Music in middle tennessee

Sat, 2/15

Boro Bourbon & Brews Tony Castellanos; Los Swamp Monsters Hank’s Honky Tonk The Hammonds Happy’s Sports Lounge Phoenix Rising Heroes Den Mark & Tim Hop Springs Noche de Banda Middle Ground Brewing Co. Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Wind Ensemble Puckett’s Kenny Durham Trio

Sun, 2/16

Boro Bourbon & Brews Andru Jamison Hop Springs Da Jam Band MTSU Wright Music Building Gyuhee Kim The Boro Zentrance; Jeff Keeran

Mon, 2/17

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Boro Bourbon & Brews Vinny Bonina Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 2/18

Boro Bourbon & Brews Eden Storm MTSU Wright Music Building Drake Wallace Memorial Studio Recital

Roland Justice; Cary & Sherrie Lynn Hop Springs Andy Branton Jack’s Place Tony Castellanos MTSU Wright Music Building Tennessee Valley Winds Puckett’s Jeffrey Joslin Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers TN Craft Butcher Eric Lopez

Sat, 2/22

Boro Bourbon & Brews Jeff Lysyczyn; Southbound Crows Grindstone Cowboy Marci Mitchell Hank’s Honky Tonk Krystal King Happy’s Sports Lounge Stones River Revival Heroes Den Danny White Hop Springs Bleached Out; Karate Chad; Munkn!

MTSU Wright Music Building Molly Clayton; Jonathon Oldham Puckett’s The Road Crew The Boro Tunnel Show; Carpet-Stain; Bellysauce

Sun, 2/23

Boro Bourbon & Brews Gray Daniels

Boro Bourbon & Brews Sisters Wade Revival Hop Springs Da Jam Band The Boro Zentrance

Thurs, 2/20

Mon, 2/24

Wed, 2/19

Boro Bourbon & Brews Dueling Pianos Hank’s Honky Tonk Will King Harvester Event Center East Nash Grass; Po’ Ramblin’ Boys Hop Springs Mario Williams MTSU Wright Music Building Jazz Ensemble I

Fri, 2/21

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Boro Bourbon & Brews Revolution Hank’s Honky Tonk Jeff Caron Band; Sara Simmons & Kevin Key Heroes Den

Boro Bourbon & Brews Reed Swindler & Jett Reed Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Jazz Ensemble II Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 2/25

Boro Bourbon & Brews Fae Harmonies MTSU Saunders Fine Arts Chloe Fuller; Colin Miller

Wed, 2/26

Boro Bourbon & Brews Scott Hogue Hank’s Honky Tonk Jeff Caron

 full calendar online at

boropulse.com/calendar

If You Go

Hop Springs The Creative Outlet: Networking and Open Mic MTSU Saunders Fine Arts Music Industry Collective MTSU Wright Music Building Sarah Eitel

Boro Bourbon & Brews

Thurs, 2/27

1850 Old Fort Pkwy.

Boro Bourbon & Brews Carson Mac MTSU Saunders Fine Arts Desmond Ng

Fri, 2/28

Boro Bourbon & Brews Tony Hartman; Silent Ruckus Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Heroes Den Phil Valdez Hank’s Honky Tonk Justin Dukes; Blaine Bunting; Ashton Butler Hop Springs The Wentzel Brothers; Mr. Grey Jack’s Place Tony Castellanos Middle Ground Brewing Co. Muddy Boots MTSU Saunders Fine Arts Desmond Arias MTSU Wright Music Building String Band Summit Puckett’s Radio Farm Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers TN Craft Butcher Tucker Wilson

Sat, 3/1

Hank’s Honky Tonk In-Cahoots; Tawnya Reynolds MTSU Wright Music Building MTSU Symphony Orchestra

Sun, 3/2

Hop Springs Da Jam Band MTSU Wright Music Building Dinu Fedur

Mon, 3/3

MTSU Wright Music Building Jazz Combos Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 3/4

Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Chamber Winds; Symphonic Band

124 N. Maple St.

burger bar

carmen’s taqueria

206 W. Northfield Blvd.

grindstone cowboy

115 N. Main St., Eagleville

hank’s honky tonk

2341 Memorial Blvd.

happy’s sports Lounge 302 W. Main St.

harvester event center 206 W. Main St., Smithville

heroes den

1257 NW Broad St.

Hop Springs

6790 John Bragg Hwy.

Jack’s Place

114 E. College St.

Middle Ground Brewing Co.

2476 Old Fort Pkwy.

MTSU Saunders fine arts building 629 Normal Way

MTSU Wright Music Building

1439 Faulkinberry Dr.

Puckett’s Grocery 114 N. Church St.

Smyrna VFW post 8422

10157 Old Nashville Hwy. Smyrna

St. Clair Senior Center 325 St. Clair St.

the view at the fountains

1500 Medical Center Pkwy.

TN Craft butcher

3921 Franklin Rd. E

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HAPPY HOUR DAILY, 2–6 P.M.

Sounds

Symphony Love Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra Shares Symphonic Music With Murfreesboro Community by laura lindsay

O

ne of Murfreesboro’s hidden gems, the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra, brings the magic of classical music to life, right here in Rutherford County. TPO President Jane McNulty wants to keep this rich symphonic tradition thriving, inspiring audiences of all ages to experience the power and beauty of live orchestral performances.

“The music touches your soul,” McNulty said. “You are in the room feeling the percussion and the strings. There is nothing like being there.

“There are some who believe that classical music and symphonic music is on its way out. I don’t believe that. It is so important to this community to fight for it, to keep it growing and expand it to the next generation. It is important and sometimes it gets lost in the priorities of money.”

So far, the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra has performed Latin and classical 14 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

concerts this season. Its February performance will be a jazz show.

“We play to our community with songs people know and will recognize,” McNulty said. “Sometimes a concert might be half and half—with one half being classical songs you have heard, and the other half maybe more pop music. We also try to stay current.”

TPO is a professional orchestra; all musicians have auditioned to perform as part of the orchestra and are contracted and paid.

“Our orchestra is a diverse group, and we try to show that through our music and our programming,” McNulty said. “We try to make sure we are grounded and that we offer things to everyone.”

Conductor and musician Dr. Lawrence Harvin founded the orchestra, originally called the University Community Ensemble, in 1981. It was originally part of MTSU, though Harvin changed the symphony’s name a few times to attract talent across the

county and internationally. The symphony is now recognized as the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra.

Harvin served as the conductor for 35 years and still sometimes conducts now, McNulty said.

“We don’t have a full-time conductor right now,” she said. “We have been enjoying musical guests from all over. It has been really enjoyable to bring in people with different styles. Conductors have individual style, and three conductors might conduct in three different ways.”

McNulty said it’s not hard to find a conductor “because they enjoy leading this orchestra.”

TPO Board of Directors President Dr. Steven Payne says he hopes more musicians who performed in the orchestra before the COVID pandemic can return to perform again.

“COVID did a lot of things to a lot of

people in this country, and one of things it did was affect symphony music,” Payne said. “Worldwide, we have about 20 percent less orchestras now. A lot of orchestras just couldn’t make it. It’s hard to ask for money when you aren’t having any performances. It has been financially difficult.

“Our orchestra has recovered from it, but not all the people who were in the symphony before [COVID] have rejoined us yet.”

Payne said it is a credit to the TPO donors and the board of directors that the orchestra was never in the red financially during the pandemic.

“Ticket sales for the year cover about 10 percent of our budget,” he said “That means that our donors are critically important to us. Any symphony and most nonprofits depend on donors.”

Donors can support the orchestra as a whole seasonally, as a sponsor for a musician, or by supporting TPO in the Class-

photos courtesy of TPO / Ken NOrberg

room, a program that raises money for student instrument purchase, the STEAM experience, and master classes.

music ed TPO in the Classroom is a thriving educational outlook program, part of Murfreesboro City Schools’ STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) program for grade school students.

The program covers many topics including the history of music and the physics of sound—and then the students play the instruments, Payne said.

“We try to make it to every second-grade class,” McNulty said. “We have a wonderful director of education. Donna Wehofer is a retired teacher who does amazing things for the students. TPO for the Classroom will be at over 20 schools this year. We hope more schools reach out to us to expand the program. It takes all of us to encourage and inspire future generations in music. That is why we visit the students in second grade, so hopefully in fifth grade they will pick up an instrument and then we will try to support them all the way.”

coming up Feb. 11 This month’s concert is the Valentine’s Concert on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m.

This jazz performance will be held at

The View at the Fountains of Gateway, an indoor, fourth-story performance hall overlooking the fountains, located at 1500 Medical Center Pkwy. Ste. 4D. march 1 The following show is the Music Excellence Awards. TPO will honor the music students of Rutherford County. All music teachers (instrumental and vocal) will have the opportunity to nominate their most talented music students. This is a free concert open to the public, with a special invite to the students and their family members. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 1 at 11 a.m. in the Belle Aire Baptist Church, 1307 N. Rutherford Blvd.

April 24 Dr. Brian Russell will conduct April’s season finale, A Spring Spectacular.

Ethos Children’s Choirs, a youth choir that Russell conducts, will perform with the orchestra in the concert that will also feature their new concertmaster, Andrea Dawson. This concert is set for April 24 at 7 p.m. at Belle Aire Baptist.

To find out more about the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra, visit tnphil.org or email info@tnphil.org. The TPO has three more concerts this season. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 15

Gordie Sampson

Blue Bloods in the Round Set for Feb. 13 at Nearest Green, Songwriter Night Benefits MTSU NIL Revenue-Sharing

Luke Laird

Songwriters with ties to Middle Tennessee State University will gather this month for the first-ever musical fundraiser for the school’s name, image and likeness (NIL) fund, which enables student-athletes to receive compensation for their participation in college athletics.

Derek Mason, head football coach at MTSU, Chris Massaro, director of athletics at MTSU, and the Athlete Licensing Company announce the Blue Bloods in the Round songwriters show at Humble Baron at Nearest Green Distillery (3125 US-231, Shelbyville) on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

“This first-of-its-kind event celebrates some of the ‘blue blood’ music nobility that MTSU has fostered along with the new athletic department endeavors natalie hemby to revenue-share with their athletes,” Mason said.

Grammy award-winning and decorated songwriters performing at the event include MTSU alums Luke Laird, Jamie Moore, Natalie Hemby and Gordie Sampson.

Jet Jurgensmeyer, film and Last Man Standing TV star-turned-country artist, will host Blue Bloods in the Round.

The night benefiting the MTSU athletics NIL program will include two songwriter rounds; the first round will feature up-and-coming MTSU student songwriters/artists Carter Elliott and Lauren Teel, as well Amelie Sampson, daughter of Gordie Sampson. Grady Block, currently the touring drummer for Ernest and also a staff writer for Big Loud, will round out this first crop of artists.

Following the first round, “blue bloods” Laird, Hemby, Moore and the elder Sampson will take the stage. These writers have multiple Grammy awards and nominations and over 30 number-one Billboard singles between them.

Luke Laird is a highly decorated MTSU alumnus who has won BMI Songwriter of the Year and is the co-owner of Creative Nation Music. He will perform some of his 24 number-one Billboard singles, which include “So Small” and “Undo It” (Carrie Underwood), “Gonna” (Blake Shelton), “Take a Back Road” (Rodney Atkins), “Drink in My Hand,” “Give Me Back My Hometown” and “Talladega” (Eric Church), “American Kids” (Kenny Chesney), “Fast” (Luke Bryan) and “Head Over Boots” (Jon Pardi).

Laird has also written and produced songs for Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Kacey Musgraves,

Toby Keith, Ne-Yo, John Legend, Darius Rucker and many others.

Natalie Hemby is a Grammy Award-winning writer who first gained notoriety by penning hits for Miranda Lambert including “White Liar,” “Only Prettier” and “Automatic” as well as Little Big Town’s “Pontoon” and “Tornado.” As a recording artist, Hemby won a Grammy with The Highwomen, which featured her alongside Amanda Shires, Maren Morris and Brandi Carlisle. She released her self-titled debut album in 2019 and a second solo album, Pins and Needles, in 2021.

Jamie Moore is a four-time Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. He has a catalog of multi-genre hits and songs recorded by an impressive list of artists such as Carrie Underwood, Toby Mac, Chris Lane, Bren Joy, Blake Shelton and Tim McGraw. His recent No. 1 hits “May We All” by Florida Georgia Line and “Chasin You” by Morgan Wallen have been recurrent hits on country and pop radio. He has also produced R&B artist Bren Joy and Motown gospel artist Evvie McKinney.

Gordie Sampson is a Canadian singer-songwriter and producer from Big Pond, Nova Scotia, who lives with his family in Nashville. He has written hit songs for Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, LeAnn Rimes, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert and Rascal Flatts. He has also released critically acclaimed albums with Canadian country act The Rankin Family and as a solo performer. Sampson received a Grammy Award for penning Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus Take the Wheel.”

Host Jet Jurgensmeyer, a Nashville native who grew up performing on the stage at the famed Nashville Palace, will perform some of his own songs throughout the evening.

Blue Bloods in the Round is sponsored by the Athlete Licensing Company and will be promoted

by MTSU student-athletes, with the athletes receiving NIL money for their posts on social media promoting the show.

Food and beverages will be available for guests to enjoy during the show at the “World’s Longest Bar” at Humble Baron on the campus of the Nearest Green Distillery.

music note

16 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

Find tickets for Blue Bloods in the Round at sevenrooms.com. For more information on the Athlete Licensing Company, visit athlete-licensing. com; for more information on the MTSU Athletic Department, visit goblueraiders.com; for more information on the Humble Baron venue, visit humblebaron.com.

album review

SkyFlowers SkyFlowers

Will Taylor, a Middle Tennessee-based music producer, released an independent self-titled, electric dance, hyperpop project in the summer of 2024, around the time the dance pops of Chappell Roan and Charli XCX were echoing off the walls of Bridgestone Arena and Eastside Bowl, as well as the airwaves. This even local-er debut, pulled together single by single over the course of a couple of years, makes for an electronic cornucopia of romantic venting dance-pop (perhaps rivaling the chemistry of Gotye, the artist behind the “Somebody That I Used to Know” track and video).

The “duo” track of SkyFlowers, “Cherry Blossom,” features vocalist-turned-MIDIkeyboard key Erin Brooke (also writer of the track) growing a song as smooth as bouquets bloom, all done with delicate hands at the mixing board, a tricky editing task considering the potential for electronic music’s timing to turn blotchy due to its intricacies. SkyFlowers shines through on all channels, however, to create a digital realm which melds, flows and genuinely invokes emotions, entertainingly.

No matter if you’re into electronic dance or not, the standout instrumental “Hyasynth” is a winner, tonally captivating in its repetition in ascending progression. The track mesmerizes to an optimistic, captivating degree, the dream of any globally known DJ. As for the rave-goers, it makes a pretty sick track to blow the foam out and start rubbing on one another.

“Don’t Know Her” provides mixing between different speakers for a three-dimensional listening experience, an impressive and pleasant surprise—and a woulda-been shoo-in for an ’80s rom-com soundtrack.

“Fortune Teller” is dance-dance, for sure, a British, ’80s pop Rick Astley sound. But the upbeat cut’s point of deception really comes from the lyrics, as it’s the album’s breakup song.

At a distance, one might wonder if any given track on SkyFlowers is one of the motivational Chinese or Korean pop songs played over loudspeakers on their workers’ way home from work, as a sort of societal morale booster (the American equivalent perhaps being “Happy” by Pharrell Williams). But it’s all upbeat and it’s never too far away from a repetitively endearing mood, such as in “Tour Date,” which ultimately pop-fist-pumps We can dance, we can dance, we can dance ’til we run out of music . . .

SkyFlowers’ neutropical/porch sunshine instrumental “Sunburner” is a scorcher, too. Oscillating keys and beat machines change forms, leaning back and forth between varieties of the effects in this head-bobber.

It’s a hopeless romantic’s album, with all the modern bells and whistles to boot, in this era of electronica music revisited in the basements and bedrooms of area folk, on Instagram reels, via the skillset of OG staple Negativland, by experimental, 35-year-old Nashville waiters, and even by SkyFlowers.

Everything’s there for you.

Find SkyFlowers’ SkyFlowers across the icons, collected at linktr.ee/skyflowersmusic, as well as at skyflowersmusic.bandcamp.com.

— bryce harmoN boropulse.com * February 2025 * 17

Sounds

New Owners Take Over Hank’s

Honky Tonk

H ★ e ★ r ★ o★ e★ s

Ken Strode’s recent decision to sell Hank’s Honky Tonk to Dale and Heather Clear signifies a shift from one side of the bar to the other.

The Clears, who were regular patrons of the establishment, had developed a deep appreciation for the bar’s atmosphere and community.

The Clears are originally from Indiana. The couple moved to Tennessee about 20 years ago for Dale to pursue a career in the music business, specifically playing guitar for various country artists. Some of the notable artists he has worked with include Kellie Pickler, Chris Young, Craig Campbell and Andy Griggs. This experience in the country music industry has fueled his aspiration to establish a music venue.

The new proprietors are upgrading the venue’s audio and video capabilities, expanding plans to include both music and sports events and viewings, and planning to continue Hank’s tradition of live music performances and good dining in a fun and inviting space.

Local Country Singer-Songwriters, and Groups Chasing the Neon Rainbow at Hank’s Honky Tonk

by Matthew Olson Numerous artists have graced the stage at Hank’s over the years, honky tonk hustlin’, trying to make it in Music City. Here’s a look at some of the artists that have played consistently at the venue, making significant contributions to the local music scene with their own versions of “three chords and the truth.” Look for these and many others to continue bringing their unique sound and energy to Hank’s, located at 2341 Memorial Blvd.

Emily Miller

Emily Miller is a country artist originally from West Chester, Ohio. Since graduating from Belmont University in 2018, she has continued to pursue her career in country music, actively performing at Middle Tennessee venues and beyond.

Delyn Christian

Onstage, local troubadour Delyn Christian sports a harmonica belt, enabling him to switch instruments seamlessly while playing guitar. At 64 years old, Delyn has 50 years of experience in live music, having started performing in bars at the age of 14. His repertoire includes tribute shows honoring artists such as Joe Cocker and John Prine, as well as his original compositions.

Recently, he became part of a new band called The Bar Tabs. He has been playing at Hank’s since its opening, one of many local artists committed to the venue.

Robyn Taylor Taylor used to live in Cannon County, where she wrote a lot of her original songs about the area. “Hills of Tennessee” and “Smith and Wesson” are examples of her songs about living out in Woodbury. When Taylor started playing Murfreesboro, she says, she appreciated feeling comfortable at Hank’s playing both classic and newer contemporary country tunes.

Kenna Elpers

Elpers moved to Nashville from Southern Indiana to pursue a music business degree at Middle Tennessee State University. The artist has been playing music since age 13 and has been performing at various venues, including Hank’s, since moving to Middle Tennessee. She recently released a single titled “Saturday Night Season” with country artist Craig Campbell and has an upcoming duet with Jagger Whitaker called “End of a Bottle” coming out this February. Elpers recorded a music video at Hank’s for her song “Whiskey’d Me Away.” She graduated from MTSU in December and has been playing regular gigs at Hank’s, describing it as a supportive and family-like venue.

18 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

The Cooter River Band Named after a Jack Russell Terrier named Cooter and a rescue dog named River, The Cooter River Band also performs regularly at Hank’s. The band, consisting of Cary and Sherrie Lynn, Michael James, and sometimes Kenneth Pruitt, play acoustic shows at Hank’s on the third Saturday of every month; Cary and Sherrie Lynn generally perform as a duo the second Thursday.

Phil Valdez Valdez plays what he describes as real country music, with a style encompassing artists such as Merle Haggard, Gene Watson and Keith Whitley.

When not playing acoustic at Hank’s, the rich-voiced country crooner can be heard gigging with his Fender Telecaster.

Izzy Grace Bailey Rose

Silent Ruckus

Len and Ben Cobler are a father-and-son team who play as a two-piece cover band called The Silent Ruckus. They perform a wide variety of music ranging from ’90s country music and classic rock to modern country, spanning artists from George Strait to Toto.

The O’Donnells

Local contemporary country music singer-songwriter Bailey Rose picked up steam around 2013 following the release of her debut album Can’t Let Country Die. Rose continues to gain traction, release new music and perform.

The O’Donnells are a local musical family trio consisting of Darryl, Klinton and Julie O’Donnell. They have developed a unique sound with tight harmonies that blends various musical influences, primarily focusing on country music while also incorporating elements of gospel and other roots music forms.

A country artist who plays Hank’s every third Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m., Grace has two original songs, titled “Lost My Country” and “Land of the Free” available on major streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon Music. Izzy appreciates Hank’s for its intimate atmosphere, where patrons and artists can interact closely with each other and with staff. She describes the new owners as passionate about music and dedicated to connecting with their customers.

The Jack Finley Band

Country-rock outfit The Jack Finley Band has been performing together for eight years and has been a regular ever since being the first band to play Hank’s.

The band plays about two to three shows a month, including regular gigs at Hank’s and other Murfreesboro venues. The band has a strong connection to the venue, as Hank’s founder Ken Strode inspired them to form and has been a good friend. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 19

Living

 travel

A Trip to the

Mountains

Fun, Free Family-Friendly Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park by bracken mayo Most in the area have likely heard of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, even if they do not travel there regularly. The people of Tennessee proclaim the park as a must-visit feature in the state. The Great Smoky Mountains, one of the Southeast’s crown jewels, draws millions of visitors annually with its breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife and rich history.

But what to do when you get to this massive piece of preserved mountainous land? Here are some recommended destinations and excursion ideas, lest you get overwhelmed by the majesty of the 800-square-mile park in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina.

1

Picnic and River Fun

Pack a lunch and enjoy a scenic drive through the park. Along the way, stop by one of the many pull-offs or areas labeled “Quiet Walkway” to relax by the river.

These tranquil spots—many located just a few paces from convenient parking— are perfect for picnicking, wading in the cool mountain waters and skipping rocks.

Kids will love exploring the shallow streams while parents soak in the natural beauty and wild air.

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2

Sugarlands Visitors Center: Trail to Cataract Falls and Ownby Cabin Start your Smoky Mountain adventure at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, just outside Gatlinburg. This park hub offers resources like maps, nature exhibits and helpful park rangers. Behind the center, take the easy half-mile trail to Cataract Falls, a serene 25-foot waterfall. Trails continue to the historic Ownby Cabin, a well-preserved log home built in 1860, one of many historic structures standing in the national park. This short hike is great for young children and park newcomers not far from town and civilization, while still offering a chance to spot a variety of plants, creek sides and wildlife.

3

Newfound Gap Overlook Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, Newfound Gap Overlook provides one of the park’s most iconic views of the sprawling mountain terrain. This scenic spot is accessible by car and has a large parking area, offering sweeping vistas of the Smokies. Interpretive signs share historical insights about the area, making it a great educational stop for families as they take in the view at the state line.

6

Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi)

For families up for a brief challenge, the walk up Clingmans Dome is worth the effort. The half-mile paved trail is steep, leading to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, now officially known as Kuwohi, offering expansive 360-degree views from an observation tower standing 45 feet above the peak’s natural high point. Take breaks as needed on this journey to the true top of the Smokies, and reward yourselves with a picnic near the parking lot afterward.

4

Ogle Home Place/ Twin Creeks Trail

History and nature blend beautifully on the Twin Creeks Trail. Begin an excursion at the Ogle Home Place, an 1800s homestead featuring a cabin, barn and other evidence of the Cherokee Orchard Road farm just outside of Gatlinburg. Take the Twin Creeks Trail about a mile from the Ogle site, past peaceful streams and remnants of stone walls, to the “House of the Fairies,” a whimsical stone springhouse nestled in the hillside. This magical spot is a hit with kids and offers a further glimpse into life in the area’s past. For a shorter House of the Fairies visit, park at the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center to access the wonderfully designed rock springhouse directly.

7

Elkmont

Step back in time with a visit to Elkmont, a oncethriving logging community and later a bustling resort destination.

This area features historic cabins of various colors, shapes and sizes, as well as scenic trails. Pull right up and explore this abandoned community and its fascinating history.

Aside from the village, the Elkmont Nature Trail makes a great quick walk for hiking beginners.

5

Laurel Falls Trail

The hike to Laurel Falls is another excellent family-friendly excursion (with the Laurel Falls Trailhead located about four miles away from the Sugarlands Visitors Center).

This 2.6-mile round-trip trail is paved, making it quite manageable for those who prefer stable footing, and even those pushing strollers. The highlight is the stunning 80foot Laurel Falls, cascading in two tiers, a popular photo op, and even known to be the site of the occasional marriage proposal. While the path is generally safe and easy, do keep an eye on adventurous youngsters as your group approaches the falls to steer them away from some steep drop-offs near the rocks.

8

Place of a Thousand Drips / Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop drive showcasing the park’s lush forests and flowing streams. A cascading network of drips and trickles flowing down a rocky wall, known as the Place of a Thousand Drips, makes a highlight of the tour. This feature is so close to the road, those peering out of car windows may even feel the mist from this lacework of miniature waterfalls as the water tumbles down the mountain rocks.

The cascading waterfall creates a mesmerizing sight, especially after rainfall, when sunlight causes the airborne water droplets to sparkle. The Roaring Fork drive also provides access to several popular trailheads and historic structures.

Continued on page 22 boropulse.com * February 2025 * 21

Continued from page 21

10

9

Little Greenbrier School and Walker Sisters Cabin

Dive into Appalachian history by visiting the Little Greenbrier School and Walker Sisters Cabin. Begin your journey from Metcalf Bottoms or use the parking area on Little Greenbrier Road. The schoolhouse and cabin offer a glimpse into the simple yet resilient lives of early settlers. The surrounding trails are mainly peaceful and easy.

Cades Cove

A visit to Cades Cove is a must for a Smoky Mountains trip. An 11-mile loop road winds through a picturesque valley, offering opportunities to see wildlife like black bears and deer right from the car and ample opportunities to pull off and explore a wealth of historic sites, including old churches, cabins and mills—over 80 historic buildings still stand in the area. This isolated Tennessee community once had a population of over 600.

Nature News

Creature Couples Love stories from cardinals, beavers, eagles, owls and turtles

by Ashleigh Newnes In honor of Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate some of Middle Tennessee’s most devoted creatures. These animals don’t just inspire us with their beauty and behavior, their enduring partnerships offer a glimpse into the cooperative spirit of the natural world. By protecting their habitats, we can ensure their love stories continue for generations.

Take the American beaver (Castor canadensis), nature’s ultimate team player.

As cooler temperatures settle over Middle Tennessee’s waterways, these industrious mammals prepare for their breeding season. January and February mark a time of renewal for beaver pairs, who mate for life.

Together, they construct intricate lodges and dams, transforming landscapes and creating wetlands that benefit countless other species. Protecting riparian zones safeguards their engineering efforts—and strengthens the entire ecosystem.

High above the waterways, the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) soars—a symbol of resilience and dedication. These majestic raptors form lifelong bonds, returning to the same nest year after year.

With each passing season, their nest grows larger, a testament to their commitment to family; some nests reach as wide as 10 feet.

Protecting our lakes and rivers ensures these iconic birds have the resources they need to hunt, nest and raise their young.

A flash of crimson against bare branches, the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) brings a pop of color to Tennessee’s winter landscape; the sweet duet of a bonded pair echoes through the cold air. Even in the

bleakest months, these backyard lovebirds remind us that devotion endures. Keep an eye out, and you might see the male cardinal feeding the female while she nests.

Planting native shrubs and trees provides food and shelter, ensuring their melodies continue to brighten our mornings.

As dusk falls, the haunting trills of the eastern screech-owl (Megascops asio) drift through the trees. These small owls form monogamous bonds, raising their chicks in tree cavities or man-made boxes. Stealthy and watchful, they work together to defend their young from predators. Preserving mature forests—or even installing nest boxes—provides them with safe homes, helping these loyal hunters thrive.

Down on the forest floor, the box turtle (Terrapene carolina) slowly makes its way through the underbrush. Though they may not mate for life in the strictest sense, box turtles often return to the same partners season after season. These reptiles face many challenges—habitat destruction, roads and careless human activity. But small actions make a difference. Native plant gardens provide food and shelter, while mindful driving and mowing saves lives.

While these five species highlight the beauty of lifelong partnerships in the wild, they are far from the only examples. From the barred owl and eastern bluebird to the pileated woodpecker and Canada goose, Tennessee is home to many creatures that rely on enduring bonds to survive and thrive.

The animals help to remind us that love and cooperation are deeply rooted in nature and are just as essential in our own lives. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 23

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

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

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

The

Minute

with bill wilson

Card Collector

John McGill began hosting baseball card shows in 1987 at local Ramada Inn, where they continue there to this day Hey everybody, I hope everyone’s doing well. Since this is the month we celebrate love, I’m gonna share with you one of my passions from over the years.

I don’t know why, but I’ve always loved baseball cards, football cards and basketball cards. I guess because I was not an athlete I could live through my favorite athletes. One way of showing my love for the game or a particular athlete was buying their sports card.

I would ride my bike down to Frank’s IGA at the corner of Minerva Drive and Bradyville Pike or to Town & Country Market right across the street and buy 50-cent packs of cards hoping to score an Aaron, Mays, Rose or Carlton. Sometimes I would go to Tolliver’s Pawn Shop or the Bellwood Market on Broad Street.

I also remember as a kid my father would take my younger brother and me and go to the Great Escape in Nashville. He would give us $100 and, instead of buying the new cards of the 1970s, we bought up a lot of the older cards like the Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron cards, just to name a few.

I had the opportunity to sit down with John McGill, who actually started one of the first baseball card shows in Tennessee.

John has lived in Murfreesboro all his life.

He started his card shows in 1987 at the Ramada Inn on South Church Street, where they are still held to this day. McGill got the idea from Ed Gaddy, who had a sports 24 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

card shop called E. Gad’s at Harding Mall in Nashville. Jay Deaton (of Bellwood lore) helped John promote the first show.

Someone selling cards at the card shows could price their cards by looking at the “CCP,” which stands for current card prices.

Collectors would use Beckett, a magazine for pricing sports cards. John told me back in the day you could buy a whole box of cards for $8; today, that same box of cards could cost $1,000 or more.

I asked John what was his key to the success of his card shows for the last 38 years, held at a single place, the Ramada Inn. He let me know the main source of promotion is the Ramada’s marquee out front on the busy street. The card shows are still held the first and third Saturday of each month. For many years all John had to do was change the dates.

I asked John to tell me some interesting stories from over the years. He said one time he had set up at the Madison Flea Market and this fellow came in and tried to sell him some baseball cards . . . but it so happened that they were John’s baseball cards! The guy had stolen them at the Ramada Inn show. John assured me no one was arrested and that this thief was not a resident of Murfreesboro.

Murfreesboro had several pro athletes who hailed from here, all featured on their own cards. We all likely know of Major League Baseball pitcher David Price. Kenny Gerhart played at Oakland High School and at MTSU and played for the Baltimore Orioles. Before that, Chuck Taylor played on several teams in the Majors and recently local pitcher Collin Snider made it to the big leagues.

Murfreesboro native Robert James played

for the Buffalo Bills, following his time at Holloway High School and Fisk University.

If you’re wanting to buy cards or to have your collection evaluated, stop by the show at the Murfreesboro Ramada Inn (1855 S. Church St.) the first or third Saturday of each month. Sports-card trading is a billiondollar industry, and the value still appears to be going up. The key to these cards’ value are condition and scarcity. For more information or to display and sell your card collection, call John McGill at 615-893-1140.

Now, go out and do something nice for somebody, and remember to get your sweetie some chocolate and tell them how much you love them.

Call Bill Wilson for your local real estate needs at 615-406-5872.

Smyrna High School Announces Production of Second Student Feature Film Following the success of its debut feature film, The Strings Attached, Rock School Studios—the film division of Smyrna High School’s Video Production Program—announces the launch of its second student-led feature film project, Real.

This new production will further showcase the abundant talent and creativity of these high school filmmakers as they continue to push the boundaries of student cinema.

Real is a thought-provoking drama that explores the line between technology and humanity in a world where technological advancements often outpace ethics. At its core, the film tells the story of high school student Dante and his unexpected companion, Ben, offering a powerful commentary on what it is to be human.

“After the incredible response to the first film, we’re excited to raise the bar and tackle a compelling new story that highlights the extraordinary talent, vision and collaboration of our students,” said video production instructor Kyle Dietz.

The new feature will once again be entirely student-produced—from scriptwriting and pre-production to cinematography, directing and post-production. Guided by industry professionals and educators, this project offers students real-world experience, preparing them for potential careers in film and media.

Production on Real began in November 2024, with filming taking place at various locations in the Smyrna area. A special two-night red carpet premiere is scheduled for April 22 and 23, 2025, at the Smyrna Malco Cinema. The film will screen for several weeks at Malco before heading to Amazon Prime.

For more information, visit shsproductions.net or follow the film on social media @REAL_Movie25.

Concerns, Delusions, and Conspiracies: Todd Gallery Hosts Artwork of Bert Gilbert and Steve Ward MTSU’s Todd Art Gallery will host Concerns, Delusions, and Conspiracies, an exhibit showcasing the work of Bert Gilbert and Steve Ward, through Feb. 14.

View this innovative opening exhibition for the spring 2025 semester 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.  Bert Gilbert’s rich history in craftsmanship began in his father’s basement workshop, where he created toy boats, wood carvings and intricate alarm systems during his childhood. He earned his bachelor of arts in sculpture and painting from Indiana University in 1983. After dedicating many years to family and business, he returned to art at age 50, reigniting his creative passion by participating in iron casting workshops at Sculpture Trails in Solsberry, Indiana. Gilbert’s artistic practice emphasizes metal due to its durability and textural qualities.

Steve Ward is known for his innovative approach to contemporary materials and forms.

With a solid foundation in traditional sculptural techniques, Ward often blends these methods with modern technology to create dynamic installations that challenge viewer perceptions, exploring themes of identity, nature and the interplay of environmental elements.

Admission to the Todd Art Gallery is free and open to the public. For more information, call 615-898-5532 or email toddartgallery@mtsu.edu. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 25

photos courtesy of keegan deitz

Art

Clockwise from above: Director Gavin Averhoff reviews a scene on set; Assistant camera Miley Singharath slates a scene; Director Gavin Averhoff and Cinematographer Xavier Miller discuss a shot.

SPOTLIGHT on nonprofit

T

Cold Nights Warm Welcome

he Journey Home continues to run its Coldest Nights program throughout this winter season, providing shelter on freezing nights for those at risk of sleeping outside in the cold. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to serve the homeless and other at-risk individuals in the Rutherford County community.

The organization’s community outreach offers services that encourage individuals to build economic stability, faith, independence and integration into community life.

On nights when it gets below freezing, The Journey Home partners with some local churches to provide an indoor space for those who need a roof over their heads.

The Coldest Nights project, initiated by The Journey Home in 2008, provides shelter to unsheltered adults, many with various mental health conditions and financial struggles.

In the project’s first year, the organization faced logistical challenges when seeking viable shelters for individuals, using area hotel rooms as places of refuge.

But the project would eventually be able to operate men’s and women’s shelters located at First Baptist Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Lisbeth Couser, Journey Home’s director of marketing, has been with the organization since 2020, but remembers the obstacles the nonprofit overcame to get to where they are now.

“In 2009 we asked First Baptist Church if they would allow us to set up a shelter for men in their church when it was below freezing, which they allowed,” Couser said. “We started operating in the church and in 2011 added St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to provide shelter for our women on Coldest Nights.”

Jim Trasport, a member of what The Journey Home calls the “Cold Patrol,” joined the initiative’s Hypothermia Prevention Program after volunteering at one of the 26 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

The Journey Home coordinates shelters on freezing nights

by Elisha Nelson

church’s senior centers. The program was offered as a grant through The Journey Home that the ministry provides.

“I wanted to help serve meals. I don’t prepare them but help serve them, check everyone in, and make sure that everybody gets at least one meal, and their seconds,” Trasport said.

He works with the men’s shelter at First Baptist Church, providing blankets to those spending the night and assisting them with setting up cots, towels and other sundry items that they need to spend the night at the church. The shelter for the men, previously a gym for First Baptist Church, has been converted to a shelter with access to showers and toilets, separated by curtains to provide privacy to individuals.

“I find that when you treat somebody with respect and give them dignity, they in turn do the same thing. They’re very appreciative of the community,” Trasport said.

The program offers a supper at 5:30 p.m., with the shelter opening later for community

members seeking a place to stay for the night.

“We have suppers, at The Journey Home and at First Baptist Church, with volunteers helping to prepare those meals,” Couser said. Staff members begin checking in shelter-seeking individuals at 7 p.m., and the church doors are open until 9 p.m., housing them until 7 a.m. the following day.

The initiative relies on community support from volunteers and hosts the program on evenings when the temperature is expected to fall below freezing. Two different weather services are used to determine when the shelter is open.

The individuals who stay at the shelter typically have complex needs, such as healthcare needs, mental illnesses, and a need for permanent housing.

“We aren’t exclusively seeing homeless individuals seek shelter at our churches,” Trasport said. “The other night, I met a man who was in transition into finding an apartment, and after hearing about the shelter he

took his three cats to find a place to bring them for two or three days until he could find a place to stay. While we ask people with pets to leave them in their vehicle where some shelter is provided, it sure beats them being out in the street on freezing nights.”

The Coldest Nights program is expected to continue throughout the winter season, likely up through the first few weeks of March.

Along with the goal of connecting clients with sustainable housing solutions that offer stability to break out of the cycle of homelessness, The Journey Home supplies knowledge and tools useful for an independent life.

“It’s a need 365 days a year. The thing we want is for everybody to be in some kind of sustainable housing,” Couser said. “Anytime you’re living outdoors, you are vulnerable to the elements of living outdoors, whether it’s overheating or freezing to death, or maybe you have a medical condition. A lot of our unsheltered adults have medical conditions such as heart trouble or diabetes or some other serious health problem, and living outside is not a very good way to take care of those types of health conditions.”

COMING UP: The Journey Home is hosting a fundraising event on March 10 at the MTSU Student Union Building Ballroom called Journey 25, focusing on community action to raise funds for those experiencing homelessness in Rutherford County.

Those looking to assist in the program can volunteer and help with cleaning up after the meal groups. Donations such as sheets, warm gloves, blankets and clothing are also needed to support individuals during the cold months. To volunteer or donate or for more information about The Journey Home and the Coldest Nights program, visit lovegodservepeople.org.

Food

 restaurant

Passion for Pasta

The Dish

Find culinary artistry at La Cucina Italiana

La Cucina Italiana 451 N. Thompson Ln., Ste. A, Murfreesboro Mon.–Sat.: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Cavatappi Al Forno Cremoso: $15.39; Linguine Scampi: $17.49; Chicken Sorrentino: $18.49; Apple and Gorgonzola Salad: $12.39; Rigatoni Alla Vodka: $14.39; Vegetable Minestrone: $6.19

story By Bracken Mayo Photos by Sarah Mayo

Cavatappi Al Forno Cremoso

615-546-4444 lacucinaitaliana451.com

F

lavorful, warm, authentic Italian fare has arrived in Murfreesboro with the opening of La Cucina Italiana.

Proprietor Darlin Daniel Deras opened the establishment on bustling Thompson Lane to offer his take on Sicilian classics.

Almost anyone should be able to find something suitable to their taste and mood from the extensive but well organized, unintimidating and informative menu, which includes a variety of pastas, chicken dishes, salads, sandwiches, soups, seafood, steaks and even some Cuban selections, a nod to the previous restaurant occupying the 451 N. Thompson Ln. location (which was of a Cuban persuasion).

At the current restaurant, La Cucina Italiana, the linguine scampi is a popular choice for pasta and seafood fans, featuring shrimp along with a garlic white wine scampi sauce and julienne zucchini.

For an absolute symphony of deliciousness try the Cavatappi Al Forno Cremoso, a magnified mac and cheese of sorts. Cavatappi is a spiral noodle, and this fantastically rich, cheesy, greasy bacon pasta creation accompanies them with parmesan, onion, diced bacon, cream, melted mozzarella cheese and just enough green peas in there

28 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

to say you had some vegetables along with all of the decadent pasta, cheese and butter.

“The Bolognese and Marsala were spot on,” Bill Rawnsley posted following a meal at La Cucina Italiana.

Other house pasta dishes include the Pasta Pescatori—a seafood medley of shrimp, mussels, clams and calamari—the Linguine Bolognese with the classic meat and tomato sauce, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, and

Pasta Gorgonzola, another special cavatappi dish, this one with sausage, peas and sweet onion in a gorgonzola cream sauce.

“The gorgonzola pasta was very creamy and delicious, and the spare rib with risotto was really tender and flavorful,” posted one impressed customer, Stratos. “Everything was really authentic and obviously cooked from scratch with a lot of care and talent. Top it off with the best homemade Chicken Sorrentino

tiramisu we’ve had in 20 years.”

This patron also recommended the ham croquettes.

Deras spent many years honing his craft at an Italian establishment on Long Island, learning the art of creating traditional sauces and preparing pasta, chicken and seafood dishes. Now, he brings these recipes from Palermo, Italy, to Middle Tennessee. His skill has not gone unnoticed—one local Italian family from New York proclaimed La Cucina as the best Italian food they have found in Murfreesboro.

Among the establishment’s chicken dishes, find the Chicken Sorrentino—chicken breasts topped with prosciutto, very thin slices of fried eggplant, mozzarella, a beef-based demi-glace and plum tomatoes, all atop a bed of mashed potatoes—an elegant explosion of flavors with a comforting potatoesand-gravy feel, and a very filling dish.

The Chicken Involtino, served on risotto and small chunks of vegetables, may not have quite as impressive of a flavor profile but is still a hearty option, particularly for fans of mushrooms.

The Shrimp Oreganata makes for a garlicky, buttery, herby indulgence, with crusted shrimp atop a large portion of sau-

S T E A K • S E A F O O D • PA S TA • W I N E • W H I S K E Y

Shrimp Oreganata

Catering Available

HAPPY HOUR MON – THURS 4 PM TO 7 PM SAT 11 AM TO 3 PM 223 West Main Street Murfreesboro 615-203-3498 alleyonmain.com

téed spinach, while “the short ribs are to die for,” another customer posted.

Other families say they appreciate the affordable chicken tenders, grilled cheese and Jr. cheeseburger options for kids.

As mentioned, the La Cucina Italiana chef decided to include on his menu some Cuban standards, including maduros (sweet plantains), fried green plantains served by themselves or loaded up like nachos, empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, croquettes and tamales.

Those looking for burrata—balls of fresh mozzarella cheese filled with a creamy interior—can find them at La Cucina Italiana, the delicacies served with the caprese or accompanied with meatballs.

“The chicken Francese [with white wine and lemon butter sauce] was good and the bread was good,” said one recent diner, Nancy King, though she added that she would like a better quality calamari, and that “The meatballs were delicious but the burrata was so cold it made it less

appealing; make sure the burrata is room temperature.”

Though “overall, I would go back,” King said.

Daras, who also owns and operates a paletas shop in Springfield, La Michoacana, takes pride in his culinary creations and will surely continue to impress with his dishes and to welcome customer feedback.

Local diner Samantha Bowers said she appreciated the “cool mix of Italian and Latino food. Incredible chicken spring rolls [buffalo chicken rolled with carrot-celery slaw, served with blue cheese dipping sauce], beef empanadas and Rigatoni Fiorentina.

The tres leches cake was the best I have ever had. Great service as well,” she said.

From clams and mussels to cheeseburgers and Cuban sandwiches, light salads to rich pastas, meatballs, marsala, ribeye or ropa vieja, whatever you’re in the mood for, give Mr. Daras and his team a chance to lead you on a culinary adventure at La Cucina Italiana.

Apple and Gorgonzola Salad

boropulse.com * February 2025 * 29

Contemporary American Dining

Visit primrosetable.com or find us on Facebook to make your reservation today

1650 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro • 615.900.5790

Around Town

’boro Business buzz nékter Juice Bar has opened in Murfreesboro, offering smoothies, juices, acai bowls, wellness shots and detox drinks.

Find the new location of the juice franchise at 1306 Westlawn Blvd. B4, off of Veterans Parkway near I-840. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Tennessee Whiskers, White Monkey Market, High Society, nékter Juice Bar, Fairfield, City Cafe BY delores elliott The White Monkey Market will open for regular hours on Feb. 12. Jeremy and Kellie Myers initially launched White Monkey to assist families with estate sales and have now opened a full-time market at 2859 Middle Tennessee Blvd. They have leased that house, owned by another local family and small business owner, and have held periodic estate sales there.

“We felt led to open the market full time to support the growing population of the Murfreesboro community and to better serve those individuals who enjoy shopping upcycled, vintage and estate items,” Jeremy Myers said. “This allows folks who enjoy shopping estate items to shop them in Murfreesboro even when there isn’t an estate sale available.”

The Market will feature an assortment of goods including vintage, primitives, locally sourced goods, baked goods, jewelry, clothing, gifts, records and other items from local family estate collections.

“Many have asked if we will continue doing our traditional estate sales out in private homes as well. The answer is a big fat yes,” Myers said. “We love assisting local families that are in difficult transition. There is more on the horizon from the White Monkey Brand. So be on the lookout for more.”

Hours for the White Monkey Market are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visit facebook.com/whitemonkeyes for more information.

Tommy Dang and Christie Shedd expect to open their new establishment, High Society Food Bar and Lounge, in February. The new concept will come to 211 W. Main St. with hours from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. The building, which previously housed Murfreesboro Axe, will now feature a blend of Asian and Cajun cuisines, according to the restaurant owners.

High Society will serve shrimp and grits, fish, gumbo, curries and pho, with the possibility of a sushi menu in the future.

The front section of the 5,000-square-foot building will serve as the main restaurant 30 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue, a volunteer and foster based organization focused on saving stray cats in our community, has formed in Murfreesboro.

Catfeine Cat Cafe (517 Cason Ln.) will host a fundraiser launch party for the new nonprofit cat rescue organization on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 6–8 p.m. This party will also be like a kitten shower where Tennessee Whiskers will share its wish list to help it get started.

Tennessee Whiskers has set a goal to save 100 local cats in its first year. It costs around $250 to fully vet and care for a healthy cat, according to the organization. This includes vaccines, spay or neuter services, testing, a microchip, flea meds, dewormer, food, litter and basic supplies. So it will launch a GoFundMe campaign to raise the $25,000 needed to meet that goal. It has registered to be a 501c3 organization, so all donations will be tax deductible.

The five cat ladies behind Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue include Danielle Harrett, Lori Kean, Taura Byrd, Wanda Channell and Nicole Campanella, with cat daddy Chris Conro volunteering to serve as the organization’s treasurer “There are countless requests every day for help with cats in need and limited support or resources available in our area,” Byrd said. “They need more help!”

While Byrd is also the founder and operator of Catfeine Cat Cafe, Catfeine will remain a separate entity from the rescue, but will serve as a foster home for Tennessee Whiskers.

“Our community has always been so supportive of Catfeine for the last six years,” Byrd said. “This felt like the right next step to further our reach in helping more cats in need.”

Additionally, Catfeine will continue to collaborate with other area rescue partners that align with its values and mission.

“We love and support our other local rescues and only strive to be an additional resource for our community.”

For more on Tennessee Whiskers Cat Rescue, including information on volunteering, serving as a foster home and donating, come out to the Feb. 15 event or visit linktr.ee/tennesseewhiskers or tennesseewhiskers.com. space, including a bar and a small stage, with a VIP lounge in the middle section and the kitchen in the back.

“It’s a different concept,” said Shedd.

“We’re going to be opening every morning at 6 a.m. and closing every day at 3 a.m.”

Dang has a history in restaurants on the

Gulf Coast, while Shedd owns the two Mi Patria restaurants in Murfreesboro. Both have owned and operated nail salons and have been involved in multiple other small businesses.

For more information, find High Society on Facebook or call 629-295-3982.

First Baptist Church Murfreesboro, located at 738 E. Castle St., has recently acquired property around the area to create more parking space for the church as the congregation continues to grow.

As part of its full plans, six homes and a barber shop are expected to be demolished to provide space along East Castle Street and South Bilbro Avenue. The new space will consist of 220 new parking spaces, as well as a quarter-mile walking track, a conference center that will house more classrooms, fellowship and conference rooms, a commercial kitchen, daycare center and multimedia creative suite. The project is expected to be completed by the end of June.

The new murfreesboro Water Resources building has opened at 316 Robert Rose Dr., behind Home Depot and Walmart, at the corner of Gateway Blvd. The new building houses financing, customer service, engineering, storm water and GIS departments, providing more room for employees as the city continues to grow. It also features options for customers to pay water bills inside or via drive-thru. For additional information, visit murfreesborotn.gov/2635/ Water-Resources.

The Murfreesboro Planning Commission has recently approved plans for a new Fairfield Inn by Marriott. The new four-story, 65,000-square-foot hotel will be located on a 2.69-acre lot at Robert Rose Drive and Lothric Way and will offer 122 rooms.

Titan Material Handling, which offers forklift sales, rentals and repairs, has announced plans to relocate from its current space at 651 Middle Tennessee Blvd. to a 3.14-acre site at 333 W. Rutherford Blvd. The site plan was approved for a 5,334-squarefoot office space and 18,012 square feet of warehouse space in addition to 27 parking spaces. Titan offers a variety of forklift types including industrial, electric and diesel as well as aerial lifts and platforms, telehancontinued on page 31

dlers, pallet trucks, tow tractors and more.

Visit titanmh.com for more information.

still awaiting a response from the restaurant’s owners regarding a potential sale.

CLOSINGS 

Bridgestone Americas, a subsidiary of Bridgestone, recently announced a decision to close its La Vergne Truck and Bus Radial Tire Plant effective July 31, 2025. According to a recent press release, the closure will help the company by optimizing its business footprint, strengthening its competitiveness and enhancing the quality of the company’s U.S. operations. Bridgestone also announced capacity and workforce reductions at its Des Moines agriculture tire plant, with additional workforce reductions in U.S. sales and operations.

“Closing this facility will impact the lives of 700 Bridgestone employees,” said Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr regarding the La Vergne announcement. “This decision will affect the community in a myriad of ways.”

This facility has provided employment for many in the La Vergne community for decades and it was the first Bridgestone plant in the United States.

Additional operations in its Latin America facilities are also expected to have cost optimization efforts, along with reductions in workforce and production capacity as part of Bridgestone’s “business rebuilding 2nd stage” outlined in the Mid Term Business Plan (2024–2026).

Crazy C’s Liquidation, located at 1005 W. College St., recently suffered a fire that began within the building. Firefighters arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the warehousestyle building. The building was vacant at the time of the incident and MFRD crews worked quickly to bring the fire under control and extinguished it without any injuries. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

As a result, Crazy C’s will be closed for repairs, but will reopen soon, according to the business. Find Crazy C’s Liquidation on Facebook for updates.

Murfreesboro’s historic City Cafe has officially closed after 125 years in operation.

The cafe serves as Tennessee’s longestoperating restaurant, with an original opening date of Feb. 10, 1900.

The restaurant, which has seen multiple ownership changes over the years, has been a well-loved community gathering place, known for its Southern hospitality and comfort food.

“This economy has literally broke us. We have tried so hard to stay ahead but, when you have more going out than coming in it catches up with you,” according to a January social media post from current City Cafe owners Teresa and Rollin Kellogg.”

The post included the mysterious comment “We don’t know what is going to come of the Cafe from here,” leading to much local speculation, opinion, offers to buy, conjecture, and even a few GoFundMe pages to raise money to purchase the business (although those behind those pages evidently had no communication or agreement with the restaurant’s owners).

Shortly after City Cafe announced its closure, local business owner Austin Robinson (who operates CPR Cell Phone Repair) posted to Facebook with a cash offer of $10,000 to take over the lease and rights to the business name, assets and inventory with intent to keep all current staff onboard.

“I have reached out via a few different avenues to get in contact with the current owner, however, they have been unsuccessful. My wife and I have been business owners in the ’Boro for the past 10 years. I do not want to see a piece of history go under,” he said in his post.

Numerous other local residents have expressed interest in purchasing the business and continuing the legacy, though Robinson, and the rest of the Murfreesboro public, are

Southern Soul Cuisine, located at 535 NW Broad St., appears to have closed.

An official closing has not been announced, although locals have reported that restaurant owners have not been responding to catering calls and doors have been locked.

The Bojangles restaurant at 2263 Memorial Blvd. has closed. The building’s signs have been removed and passersby have observed crews painting the building blue.

The Church Street Bojangles location remains open.

Quinn’s Mercantile remains closed. The Spring Street business that sold gifts, home goods, clothing and candles said it closed temporarily in September, but stayed closed through the holidays up to February. Some who know business owner Tracy Toy said this was due to health issues.

The store’s website has been disabled, and inquiries from customers regarding a possible reopening have gone unanswered. Those behind the Stones River Market, which used Quinn’s porch as a produce drop-off point, announced in January that they had to relocate due to the closing of Quinn’s. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 31

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News 12 Local Youth Achieve Eagle Scout Rank From building playgrounds that spark children’s joy to preserving Civil War history, remarkable young leaders have left a mark on Rutherford County through each of their journeys to Eagle Scout rank.

The Trail of Tears District of Scouting America announces these outstanding youth have not only achieved Scouting’s highest honor but have collectively invested 1,760 hours in transforming our community. Their service projects, ranging from international military support to local environmental conservation, demonstrate the impact young people can have when guided by the values of leadership, service and civic responsibility.

Each of these new Eagle Scouts has written their own chapter in a legacy of excellence, completing extensive leadership training and earning at least 21 merit badges while developing projects that will benefit their neighbors for years to come.

Joseph Piel of Troop 197 has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. A junior at Providence Christian Academy and son of Robbie and Catherine Piel, Joseph organized a “Shepherd’s Closet” clothing and toy drive benefiting Fellow Church Murfreesboro during Christmas 2023. Under Scoutmaster Charles Hazlett’s leadership, his project contributed 198 service hours to the community.

Nathaniel Adam Rinehart of Troop 1180, chartered by Shepherd’s Rise, has attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Nathaniel’s project focused on improving the DavisThomas Cemetery, contributing over 87 service hours to preserve this historic site.

Nathaniel is the son of Josh and Dana Rinehart; his father, Josh, serves as Scoutmaster.

Earning Eagle Scout Achievements in 2024:

Nathan Spurgeon, a senior at Stewarts Creek High School and member of Troop 3200, sponsored by the Lions Club, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The son of Chris and April Spurgeon, Nathan completed his Eagle project at Life Lift Church, where he coordinated the refurbishment of playground equipment, including restoration of wooden play structures and ground improvements. Under Scoutmaster Michael Grove’s guidance, Nathan’s project provided 183 service hours to his community.

32 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

David Andrew Ker, son of Erik Ker and Danni Clark, has earned Scouting’s highest rank as a member of Troop 197. Under Scoutmaster Charles Hazlett’s guidance at Fellowship United Methodist Church, David designed and installed a fire pit and paver area benefiting Branches. His project encompassed 225 service hours.

Lincoln Thomas Tune of Troop 441 has achieved the Eagle Scout rank. A senior at Rockvale High School and son

of Jonathan and Christina Tune, Lincoln constructed a gaga ball pit and completed grounds improvements at Turning Point Church. Under Scoutmaster Adam Holt’s leadership, his project provided 175 service hours of community service.

Marina Rooley, representing Troops 2019 and 497, is a Rockvale Middle School student and daughter of Karrie and James Rooley. Marina created a sustainable vegetable garden for Greenhouse Ministries to support the faith-based organization’s food pantry. Multiple Scoutmasters, including Jacki Neal, Melissa Lyle, Mindi Bell, Kali Alonzo and Kevin Phillips, mentored Marina through her 126-hour service project.

George Moisant of Troop 1108, now a freshman at Mississippi State University and 2024 graduate of Oakland High School, created a historical photo display at Oakland High School. The son of George and Katie Moisant, he completed 100 service hours under Scoutmaster David Kirkham’s guidance.

Kyle Rainey, a senior at Rockvale High School and member of Troop 320 in Rockvale, has achieved the Eagle Scout rank. The son of Keith and Kimberly Rainey, Kyle designed and constructed a greeting card holder for the USO Deployment Center in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Under Scoutmaster Thomas Boeh’s leadership, Kyle’s international service project contributed 52 hours to supporting military families.

Jude Bell of Troop 374, a sophomore at Siegel High School and son of Shawn and Debby Bell, restored a section of Stones River Park to its Civil War-era appearance by removing invasive species. Under Scoutmaster Dan Shafer’s guidance, his historical preservation project provided 193 service hours.

DJ Richards, currently a freshman at Motlow State Community College, is the son of Dennis and Charlene Richards. DJ constructed a Little Free Library at Smyrna First United Methodist Church. Under Scoutmaster Chad Young’s leadership, DJ’s literacy promotion project contributed 172 service hours to the community.

Ethan Rushton of Troop 106 is a senior at Central Magnet High and son of Greg and Tricia Rushton. Ethan enhanced his school’s courtyard by constructing benches and planters. Under Scoutmaster Gil Caban’s guidance, his project provided 113 hours of service.

Christian Laflamme, of Troop 422, chartered

by Smyrna VFW 8422, constructed a gaga ball pit for his alma mater, John Coleman Elementary. This Smyrna High student is the son of Tim and Heather Laflamme.

Under Scoutmaster Scott Peebles’ leadership, Christian completed 136 service hours.

For more info, contact Trail of Tears District of Scouting USA at info@totscouting.org.

Opinion

Constitution Study

Blowing Holes in the Fifth Amendment Americans must speak in order to have the right to remain silent?

we have a right to remain silent, correct? What if I told you that in 2013 the Supreme Court upheld a decision basically stating that is not true. You only have the right to remain silent if you verbally claim the right in the first place, otherwise, according to SCOTUS, your silence can be used against you. Let’s take a look at this case and this violation of your rights.

Anyone who has watched a crime drama, or has been arrested, knows about the Miranda warning.

The requirement set by the U.S. Supreme Court in Miranda v. Alabama (1966) that prior to the time of arrest and any interrogation of a person suspected of a crime, he/she must be told that he/she has: “the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, and the right to be told that anything he/she says can be used in court against” him/her.

— Miranda Warning – The Free Legal Dictionary There’s more to the Miranda decision, but this is what every American “knows”: They have a right to remain silent. But where does that come from?

No person shall . . . be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself.

– U.S. Constitution, Amendment V Constitutionally, you have the right not to be compelled to be a witness against yourself in a criminal case. Since anything you say could be used against you, you generally did not have to talk to law enforcement, or any government agent for that matter. However, as is so often the case, the right to not be compelled to self-witness was relabeled the right to remain silent. While at first that sounds like the same thing, we’ll soon find out it is not.

Berghuis v. Thompkins

In the Berghuis v. Thompkins case, Mr. Thompkins had been arrested and advised of his right in accordance with Miranda, at which point two officers interrogated him about a shooting where one victim died. As recorded in the case:

At no point did Thompkins say that he wanted to remain silent, that he did not want to talk with the police, or that he wanted an attorney. He was largely silent during the 3-hour interrogation, but near the end, he answered “yes” when asked if he prayed to God to forgive him for the shooting.

— Berghuis v. Thompkins, 560 U.S. 370 (2010) At trial, Mr. Thompkins moved to suppress his statement, claiming he had invoked his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and that his statements were involuntary. The question of Mr. Thompkins’ motion made it all the way to the Supreme Court, which held that the state court’s decision to deny Thompkins’ motion was correct.

Thompkins’ silence during the interrogation did not invoke his right to remain silent.

A suspect’s Miranda right to counsel must be invoked “unambiguously.” . . . If the accused makes an “ambiguous or equivocal” statement or no statement, the police are not required to end the interrogation.

— Berghuis v. Thompkins The Berghuis court relied on the case Davis v. United States. However, while that case did involve Miranda rights, it did not involve the right to remain silent.

Petitioner, a member of the United States Navy, initially waived his rights to remain silent and to counsel when he was interviewed

by Naval Investigative Service agents in connection with the murder of a sailor. About an hour and a half into the interview, he said, “Maybe I should talk to a lawyer.” However, when the agents inquired if he was asking for a lawyer, he replied that he was not. . . . A military judge denied his motion to suppress statements made at the interview, holding that his mention of a lawyer during the interrogation was not a request for counsel.

— Davis v. United States, 512 U.S. 452 (1994) I contend that there is a fundamental problem with the decision in Berghuis.

Miranda does not protect a single right, but multiple rights. These rights are different not only in form, but in function. The right

BY Paul Engel

to an attorney is a positive right; it identifies something the government must provide to the accused. This right is protected by the Sixth Amendment.

The right to remain silent, more accurately the right not to witness against yourself, is a negative right because it’s what the government cannot do to you: compel you to witness against yourself. This is protected by the Fifth Amendment. So when the Berghuis court found: Thompkins waived his right to remain silent when he knowingly and voluntarily made a statement to police.

The court was partially correct in that, by voluntarily making a statement to the police, he was waiving his “right to remain silent” under Miranda. However, the court made an egregious mistake when they held: Such a waiver may be “implied” through a “defendant’s silence, coupled with an understanding of his rights and a course of conduct indicating waiver.”

— Berghuis v. Thompkins No, Thompkins did not waive his right to remain silent, he simply did not exercise it for a time. Later, he did exercise it, recognizing that the police could not compel him to witness against himself. This leads us to Salinas v. Texas and the hole the court claims to have punched through the Fifth Amendment.

Salinas v. Texas

The case of Salinas v. Texas starts with Mr. Salinas being questioned by police.

Petitioner, without being placed in custody or receiving Miranda warnings, voluntarily answered some of a police officer’s questions about a murder, but fell silent when asked whether ballistics testing would match his shotgun to shell casings found at the scene of the crime. At petitioner’s murder trial in Texas state court, and over his objection, the prosecution used his failure to answer the question as evidence of guilt. He was convicted.

— Salinas v. Texas, 570 U.S. 178 (2013) This abuse of the Fifth Amendment was upheld by a 5–4 decision by the Supreme Court, the opinion for which was written by Justice Alito.

To prevent the privilege against self-incrimination from shielding information not properly within its scope, a witness who “desires the protection of the privilege . . . must claim it” at the time he relies on it.

— Salinas v. Texas Here again we see the illiteracy often demonstrated by the courts. First, what’s

at issue is not a “privilege,” it’s a right to immunity. The government is not required to give you silence, they just cannot force you to speak. Second, this right has nothing to do with self-incrimination, but with selfwitness. If you don’t wish to divulge information about yourself that has no incriminating value, that is your right, protected by the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Apparently this fact is lost on at least five of the nine justices on the Supreme Court. Perhaps Mr. Salinas did not know if the ballistics would match? There are several reasonable explanations for his silence. Maybe someone else had access to his shotgun, and may have committed the murder. Perhaps someone collected spent casings from his shotgun and either planted them at the scene or had previously dropped them. Mr. Salinas may have been shooting with the victim at another time, accidentally leaving his spent casings behind. Perhaps the ballistics tests were just not that reliable.

All of those assumptions would be reasonably valid reasons why Mr. Salinas did not wish to witness against himself.

Conclusion

Can you name one other right where you are required to announce that you are exercising it before you are allowed to do so? If the police come to your home, should you be required to invoke your right against unreasonable searches before you deny them consent to search your home? When the FBI attempts to intimidate you into censoring “misinformation,” should you be required to invoke Freedom of Speech and Press before saying no? In either case, should your refusal to allow entry or to comply with censorship demands be considered evidence of your guilt? The answer to all of these questions should be a hearty and forceful NO! I do not know if Mr. Salinas is guilty or not, but I know that the courts abused their position not only against him, but against all of us. The opinions in Salinas v. Texas, from the state court on up, has blown a hole in the Fifth Amendment as surely as if the court had used Mr. Salinas’ shotgun.

However, it has been recommended to me to not merely to exercise my right to remain silent, but to clearly state that I am doing so beforehand. And if you find it ironic that you have to speak before you can safely remain silent, then you are apparently smarter than a Supreme Court justice. boropulse.com * February 2025 * 33

Opinion

#FREEYOURCHILDREN by tiffany boyd

photo courtesy of olia danilevich / pexels

The Free Act Groundbreaking “Family Right to Educational Emancipation” Legislation Introduced in Tennessee

The special session in Tennessee ended as we expected—the Education Freedom Scholarship Act passed. Our state and many others have officially adopted an agenda whose goal is the destruction of true private education.

I would like to commend the legislators who held their ground and voted no. They listened to their constituents—many of whom seemed opposed to the legislation— and stood firm under immense pressure from their Republican counterparts who bowed the knee to big money and lobbyists.

As we have been warning about the dangers of school choice for years, we fully anticipated the passage of this in our state.

Therefore our team here at Free YOUR Children worked to draft legislation that would offer true educational freedom in Tennessee.

It is important for us to have legislators who are dedicated and supportive of our educational, parental and constitutional rights to sponsor our bill. Senator Janice Bowling and Representative Todd Warner exemplified those qualities by representing their constituents during the special session. We are thankful for their willingness to support and truly empower parents by recognizing our constitutional rights and sponsoring this alternate legislation.

As legislators were working to pass the Education Freedom Scholarship Act, they consistently affirmed that this voucher bill would “put parents in the driver’s seat of their child’s education.” We listened as they emphatically proclaimed that parents were the most equipped to make educational decisions for their children.

We hope that our legislators in Tennessee truly meant what they said. One of their 34 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

main talking points was the empowerment of parents. True empowerment is what our bill, the FREE Act, provides without the trappings associated with government money surely to result from the recently passed “school choice” bill.

According to Will Estrada, senior legal counsel of Home School Legal Defense Association, currently there are 11 states that require no reporting for home schoolers— Alaska, Idaho, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey and Connecticut. Currently, The Homeschool Freedom Act in Wyoming (HB 46) has passed out of the House. Tennessee is only one of two states to potentially secure educational autonomy through legislation. This would be groundbreaking for Tennessee.

Home-school families drafted The Family Right to Educational Emancipation (FREE) Act (SB 494/HB 552) as a way to provide parents in Tennessee, who so desire, true educational autonomy and freedom. The bill creates a new, distinct category of home schools that are not subject to the data collection, reporting or assessment requirements applicable to existing independent home-school programs and public schools, and exempts such home-school students and parents from compulsory

school attendance requirements.

Every legislator who claims they believe that parents are the best equipped to make educational decisions for their children should lend their support to this effort.

This is true school choice. We are simply asking that our Constitutional rights be recognized as they have been in other states. This bill will protect home schoolers and establish Tennessee as one of the truly free home schooling states. Find more on the bill (SB 494/HB 552) at capitol.tn.gov or read its full text at boropulse.com.

The National Republican Platform states that Republicans plan to “ . . . ensure safe learning environments free from political meddling, and restore Parental Rights.

We commit to an Education System that empowers students, supports families, and promotes American Values.” They go on to assert, “We trust Parents!”

As the Libertarian platform espouses, “Parents, or other guardians, have the right to raise their children according to their own standards and beliefs, provided that the rights of children to be free from abuse and neglect are also protected.”

The Constitution Party Platform says, “WE SUPPORT THE PARENTAL RIGHT TO PROVIDE FOR THE EDUCATION OF THEIR CHILDREN: · We support the unimpeded right of parents to provide for the education of their children in the manner they deem best, including home, private or religious. · All legislation from any level of government that would interfere with or restrict that liberty should be opposed. · Compulsory attendance laws should be repealed.”

If Republicans, Libertarians and Constitutionalists are committed to upholding their own platforms, the FREE Act should be supported by each and every one. Our bill draws a line in the sand. True conservatives and liberty-minded individuals will be defined by how they vote on this piece of legislation. If they truly support home

“The National Republican Platform states that Republicans plan to ‘ . . . ensure safe learning environments free from political meddling, and restore Parental Rights. We commit to an Education System that empowers students, supports families, and promotes American Values.’ They go on to assert, “We trust Parents!”

schooling and parents in the state of Tennessee, it will reflect in their vote.

Our bill does not seek to limit parental choice. It is an additional home-school category, free from any governmental oversight or interference. Parents will still have the option to enroll in the various other legal home-school categories if they so choose. It is important to note that Free YOUR Children is a Christian ministry; however, the FREE Act is a bill that will benefit all home-school families that desire freedom. Freedom applies to every parent.

“It is a great honor to carry an education freedom bill that protects home schoolers across this great state of Tennessee,” Representative Warner said. “This is a true school choice bill for families in Tennessee.”

We invite supporters of parental rights and schooling freedom to come and be a part of something historic in our great state of Tennessee. Do you want to establish a state where true educational freedom and constitutional rights are recognized? Now is the time.

We need your help to get this bill passed.

Reach out to legislators today and ask them to vote YES on HB0552 /SB0494. Sending personal emails and calling is a great way to let them know that you support this bill.

It is also critical that parents and supporters show up in person as the bill moves through committee. Please commit to joining us. Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on social media platforms and visit freeyourchildren.com for updated information on the bill and for calls to action.

The Free YOUR Children ministry is committed to protecting educational, parental and Constitutional rights in Tennessee and across the nation. We are honored to have had the opportunity to have drafted legislation that seeks to do just that. A special thank-you to our team members who have worked tirelessly for families throughout this process.

Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Free YOUR Children, a homeschool advocate, consultant, speaker and the founder and administrator of Middle Tennessee Christian Homeschool Connection. She holds a B.S. degree in interdisciplinary studies from MTSU. She is a wife of 30 years and mother to five children, grandmother to two. She is a former tenured public school teacher. She and her husband have home educated for 18 years. Contact her by emailing freeyourchildren@gmail.com.

TECH TALK

by byron glenn

Your Phone Isn’t Just Listening— It’s Taking Notes! process helps demystify the seemingly suThe recent news about TikTok pernatural ability of our devices to predict being banned in the United States sparked our interests. It’s not all about eavesdropworldwide conversations. Many of those ping on conversations—it’s about reading conversations were around the question the digital trail we leave behind daily. “who has access to our data, and why do Per Reuters, Apple agreed to pay $95 they want it?” million in cash to settle a proposed class Data, in its simplest form, is informaaction lawsuit claiming that its voice-actition. It can be personal information— vated Siri assistant violated users’ privacy. name, age, address, birthdate, email adHowever, after the settlement, Apple said dress, etc. It could be behavioral—websites it has “never used Siri you visit, time spent on data to build marketing an app, search hisways to increase profiles, never made it tory, shopping habits, your digital protection: available for advertislocation tracking, etc. ing, and never sold It can be social—friend • Use strong, unique it to anyone for any connections, likes, passwords purpose.” reactions, comments, • Enable two-factor “Apple does not reshares, how long you authentication whenever tain audio recordings of have watched a video, possible Siri interactions unless group memberships, • Lock your phone with a users explicitly opt-in to etc. It could be finanstrong PIN or biometrics help improve Siri, and cial—your purchase • Use different email even then, the recordhistory, banking details, addresses for different ings are used solely for income information, purposes that purpose,” Apple shopping patterns and • Don’t open suspicious said, adding that it will the like. It could be attachments continue developing technical—what phone • Limit personal info technologies to make you use, device IP adshared on social media Siri even more private. dresses, browser type, • Turn off location sharing A similar lawsuit for Wi-Fi connections and • Check privacy settings users of Google’s Voice other such data. monthly Assistant is pending in Would you believe • Avoid accessing banking the San Jose, California, me if I told you that sites on public Wi-Fi federal court. The same companies have built • Don’t shop online on law firms represent their businesses based public networks the plaintiffs as in the on having information • Turn off auto-connect Apple case. about you? Companies to Wi-Fi Your data is not just want your data for floating “in the cloud,” targeted advertising, but in physical locations, in various data product development, behavior prediction centers as well as in your own device storand market research. age. For example, Meta (Facebook) stores Are your devices listening to you? Well, yes and no. Your location history, shopping your data across multiple locations, both locally and internationally, with backup patterns, and friends’ interests are imporcopies. The location where your data is tant in determining what content appears stored affects who can access it. Differin your feed. If several friends in your ent locations have various security levels. network suddenly become interested in fitness, algorithms assume you might be, too. Other countries have different privacy laws, and their government may access Understanding this digital fingerprinting

data stored in some countries.

When protecting and oversharing data, I often hear people say “Byron, who cares? They already have my data!” Although it’s true that “they” have your data, that is a dangerous mindset. Think of it like this: Your phone’s basic tracking is like leaving footprints in the sand. Social media tracking is like giving someone a detailed diary of your thoughts, relationships, behaviors and beliefs; this is why your data is “digital gold,” and everyone wants it.

I remember growing up and hearing “this is going on your permanent record.” As a

boropulse.com * February 2025 * 35

good rule of thumb, your data is the product of a free service. No security is perfect, but something is better than nothing. And once information is online, assume it’s permanent.

Byron Glenn is the Sales and Marketing Manager with Business System Solutions; he is a speaker, business consultant, nonprofit co-founder, and Murfreesboro Tech Council board member. If you are looking for IT-managed services for your business, you can visit bssconsulting.com or call 615400-8595.

Sports

column by “Z-TrAIn”

talk titanman1984@gmail.com

Who Will the Titans Take With First Overall Draft Pick? + What Will You Eat During Super Bowl LIX?

The Train Daddy is back with sports news, life lessons and politically incorrect talk. All aboard! The NFL season is almost a wrap. What a miserable season for my Titans.

It’s time for this team to regroup as the draft nears and figure this out, because right now it’s bleak.

The Titans have the first pick in this year’s draft and, unfortunately, there isn’t a clear answer for who to select. If there was a wow quarterback, I think the Titans would have no problem drafting him. Unfortunately, it’s a weak QB class and, outside of Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s QB Cam Ward, the first-round prospects are lacking.

Tennessee has been on a hunt for a franchise QB for a long time, recently taking Levis in the second round of the draft and Malik Willis in the third.

The last QB who brought some stability to this team was Ryan Tannehill. It wasn’t always pretty, but it worked for a time. I miss the days of King dominance and play-action football.

The last QB this team took in the

first round of a draft was in 2015, with the #2 overall pick in Marcus Mariota. Back in 2011 they selected Jake doodoo Locker in the first round and in 2006 the Titans selected Vince Young with the #2 overall pick.

It really has me missing the days of my favorite player ever, the legendary Steve McNair. I have seen some people compare Cam Ward to McNair. Cam is a QB who has legitimate rushing ability followed up with a big arm. Ward’s true ability comes from being able to make big plays in troubled situations. Now, that could result in boneheaded turnovers and hero football—cough cough, Will Levis—or that could result in exciting football and a new face of the franchise. Don’t forget, McNair was a top-three pick but he wasn’t a full-time starter until his third season.

We all want quarterbacks now and forget that it sometimes takes time to develop them into pro signal callers.

What about Sanders? The son of the legendary Prime Time. When looking at both of these QBs from

my viewpoint, Sanders seems the safer bet. I know that’s not a popular thing to say, as Titans social media has made it clear they prefer Cam. I just can’t ignore the fact Shedeur has been one of the most accurate QBs in the game these past two seasons. He throws a good ball and seems to thrive better under pressure than what we saw from Cam. I love Cam’s size and athletic ability, but I fear another version of Will Levisstyle decision-making.

Maybe drafting a QB isn’t the smart move. The Titans could draft one of the two players whom many consider the best in this year’s draft— Heisman winner Travis Hunter, who played both sides of the ball at receiver and cornerback. He is a ballhawk with a high IQ of the game.

Abdul Carter out of Penn State has the potential to be a generational defensive player and certainly the type of player the Titans need. He is the elite athlete coming out of this NFL draft and his pass-rushing ability could translate into a game changer.

I must admit it seems criminal not taking a QB or trading the pick away when you have the draft’s top pick.

Maybe they will find someone willing to trade the bank away for this pick. Any team with this many holes would be smart to seriously consider trading the pick to add more depth.

My gut tells me the Titans will take one of the two QBs. That’s enough Titans talk for now, let’s talk about the big game, another Super Bowl involving the Chiefs as

they look to become the first NFL team to win three straight Lombardi trophies.

We have a rematch of Super Bowl LVII two years ago, the Chiefs vs. the Eagles. Last time the Chiefs beat the Eagles in an entertaining 38-35 victory.

This year the big game will take place at the SuperDome in New Orleans. I am conflicted about who I want to win this game! I hate both teams. Regarding the Chiefs, I hate their success! I guess you could say I am jealous of their success, fair enough.

But regarding the Eagles, it’s captured on social media every season: bad behavior after a win and bad behavior after defeat, makes no difference. I saw plenty of bad behavior online after they defeated Washington in the NFC Championship game. I personally know some great fans of Philly sports, but that doesn’t outweigh how horrible the entire fan base can be.

The fandom has for whatever reason embraced treating other people horribly. It’s not like this everywhere. Go hit up a tailgate at Arrowhead and you will get that same passion of fandom and love of team minus the treating-of-everyone-like-poop part. The same can be said of how Titans fans treat opposing fan bases. Philly fans call it passion, but the simple truth is it’s passion that has turned toxic over the years.

I could continue to ramble about things like Pat Mahomes chasing Tom Brady’s records or the annoying cuts to Taylor Swift every time her boo Kelce touches the ball.

I could cry about missing A.J. Brown. In one of the dumbest moves in Titans history, we traded a superstar on draft night for a bum player in Treylon Burks. Fun fact: since the trade, A.J. Brown has more Super Bowl appearances than Treylon Burks has receiving touchdowns!

No, I won’t ramble about all that. Let’s keep it chill and talk about food.

To the chefs of Tennessee— yeah, the entire state!—how hard

is it to put meat, onions, peppers and cheese on fresh bread and serve me a proper cheesesteak?

As much as I just hated on Philadelphia, they sure know how to make a beautiful cheesesteak. I have done intense research on cheesesteaks anywhere within an hour of Nashville and the results overall were awful. I found one winner though—It’z a Philly Thing, out in Bellevue, serving legit cheesesteaks. I got a steak and a chicken cheesesteak to go along with some of the best cheesesteak egg rolls ever!

It would be nice to see more cheesesteaks in Tennessee.

What food will you have at your Super Bowl watch party?

According to my research, 1.25 billion chicken wings are eaten during the game, equaling 162 million pounds of chicken.

That’s 7% of chicken wing sales every year in America.

Potato chips, yep! Nearly 20 million pounds of chips are purchased. Forget a veggie, give me a chip. I guess if you want to be healthy, avocados are a fan favorite; 140 million pounds of avocados are purchased for that delicious guac.

We wash all that food down with over 300 million gallons of beer, equating to 50 million cases of beer, enough to fill up an Olympic-size pool 2,000 times over. For non-alcoholic drinkers, over $2 million is spent on Super Bowl soda alone.

During the Super Bowl about 10% of Americans grill food, second only to the 4th of July.

Count me in the 10%. It’s estimated that 14 million burgers are grilled.

This year at my place we will have burgers and brats, numerous dips and plenty to wash them down with.

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

Alright, the Train is rolling into the station! Hope you all have a great February and enjoy the big game. Choo-choo!

36 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

 money matters

BY SEAN MORAN

Unlock Your Portfolio’s Potential Exploring Mutual Funds, ETFs and Direct Indexing For a long time, people have invested in mutual funds as a way to create diversification in their portfolios. In the early 2000s, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) emerged as a similar, but often more advantageous, investment structure, rapidly growing in popularity. Now, direct indexing is gaining traction as a potentially more efficient strategy. This article explains each of these investment vehicles and why you might consider them for your portfolio.

What Are ETFs? These investment vehicles address a fundamental challenge: enabling diversification for investors with limited capital. Diversification, spreading investments across various assets, is crucial for mitigating risk. Investing in only a few stocks exposes an investor to significant losses if one or two perform poorly. However, directly purchasing a diversified portfolio of individual stocks can be expensive, especially when dealing with highpriced shares.

Imagine having $1,000 to invest. Directly buying shares of several companies, especially large, well-known ones, becomes difficult. Currently Tesla stock trades around $430 per share, Apple around $230, and Microsoft around $430. With $1,000, you couldn’t purchase a single share of all three companies.

The investment vehicles we will discuss here solve this problem by pooling money from numerous investors, creating substantial buying power.

For instance, if 10,000 individuals invest $1,000, the collective buying power is $10 million. Each investor then owns a share of the fund representing a fraction of each underlying holding.

The Traditional Approach Mutual funds were the original diversification solution. A fund manager pools money from investors and uses it to buy shares of various companies. As new investors join the fund, additional shares are purchased. Conversely, when investors sell their shares, the fund sells some of its holdings to provide them with cash.

This system works well when inflows and outflows are relatively balanced. However, if a significant number of investors sell their shares simultaneously, the fund manager may be forced to sell holdings, potentially at unfavorable market prices, to meet redemption requests.

A key drawback of mutual funds is their tax implications. Because everyone’s money is pooled, any sales within the fund trigger capital gains or losses. These are then distributed proportionally to all fund shareholders, even if they didn’t personally initiate any sales. This can result in unwanted tax liabilities for investors.

Another limitation is that mutual funds are only bought or sold at the end of the trading day. When you place an order, you don’t know the exact price you’ll receive until the market closes and the fund’s net asset value (NAV) is calculated.

capital gains from other investments, reducing your overall tax liability. This level of tax optimization is not possible with mutual funds or traditional ETFs.

Conclusion With a range of investing options available, you have more opportunities than ever to invest in a way that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Each of these investment vehicles offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. If you need assistance navigating

these choices and determining the best strategy for your financial situation, consulting a qualified financial advisor is highly recommended. Please reach out if I can be of assistance.

Disclaimer: This information is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

If you would like to connect with me, please call 615-619-6919 or email smoran@redbarnfinancial.com.

Exchange Traded Funds ETFs were designed to address some of the shortcomings of mutual funds. ETFs also pool investor money to purchase assets. However, ETFs trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks, allowing investors to buy and sell them throughout the trading day at the current market price. This feature provides greater flexibility and transparency. It also offers potential tax advantages. Because ETFs are traded on exchanges, investors can control when they sell, giving them more control over when they realize capital gains or losses. Generally, not selling ETF shares avoids triggering capital gains or losses.

Furthermore, ETFs often have lower fees compared to actively managed mutual funds. Many ETFs track specific market indexes, such as the S&P 500, which reduces the need for active management and associated costs.

Direct Indexing Direct indexing represents the next evolution in this space, offering benefits centered around customization, control and tax management. Imagine wanting to invest in only 150 or 200 of the companies within the S&P 500. With a traditional ETF or mutual fund tracking the entire index, you have no choice; you own a proportional share of all 500 companies.

Direct indexing allows you to select the specific stocks you want to own and buy fractional shares of each. This allows for highly personalized portfolios, tailored to your values, investment beliefs or specific financial goals.

The most significant advantage of direct indexing is its tax efficiency through a strategy called tax-loss harvesting. If some of the stocks you own perform poorly, you can sell them to realize a capital loss. This loss can then be used to offset boropulse.com * February 2025 * 37

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The topic of love has always been of interest to me, throughout my whole life. What is love?

What inspires love? How do you know it’s love?

How long does love last? Why do some have what seems such a perfect love relationship, while others struggle to find it, or never find it?

I have discovered along the way that all interpretations are subjective. There isn’t a “one size fits all” kind of love, for sure. Some will be similar, but love is as individual as each person and as unique as each thumbprint.

In the quest for the meaning of love and why we crave it or want it I have felt the profound effects of learning to love oneself. It is quite difficult to find in another what you do not possess within yourself. We often see something in someone else that sparks an interest, then we often start to like the idea of them in our lives, without looking at who they actually are.

“Divine Love alone provides the purest form of love.” — Jennifer Durand Learning to live authentically is knowing yourself.

What do you like? What don’t you like? Many times you have to get uncomfortable (out of your comfort zone), stretch beyond what you think you can, by trying new things, putting yourself in new groups or situations.

Building relationships of any kind takes time, patience and being willing to feel awkward, until you don’t. Like anything in life, until you lean into something unfamiliar it can be frustrating, or make you want to give up before you really get started.

Even the best of the best at a skill can feel these feelings when they are in uncharted territory.

Sometimes love grows unaware. Friends who know each other inside and out suddenly (maybe even years later) realize their feelings for each other have shifted and they don’t want to be apart. Or, there have been families or cultures who have arranged unions based on practicality. Sometimes the arranged partners have not even met one another.

The active ingredient was the desire to carry on tradition. Many couples started with respect for the other, accepting the situation. If you know the foundation of your relationship, you always have that to be your center when things get tough, just as love is the center for those in other relationships.

From mutual respect, love can certainly grow.

“The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves and not twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise, we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them.” — Thomas Merton There is a 2013 romantic comedy movie called Love Actually that delves into different aspects of love through 10 different stories of a variety of 38 * February 2025 * boropulse.com

people; some of their stories are interlinked as the plot progresses. It starts with a narrator who, when he finds himself doubting the existence of love and compassion and feels gloomy about the state of the world, thinks of the arrival gate at the London Heathrow Airport: the pure, and uncomplicated love of lovers, friends and families that are greeting their respective loved ones. Then he is reminded that love does exist. Happiness and joy are expressions of that love.

“If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling you’ll find that love actually is all around.” — From the movie Love Actually It also shows the pitfalls and loss that occurs when we step outside of love, how this forever changes a relationship. You know the phrase “you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s lost”? This gives us a glimpse inside of the tenderness and fragility of love. It sits at the top of qualities, right next to trust. Once you’ve tarnished either, it is usually impossible to ever return to where you were or what you had. You might not lose someone completely, but it will forever affect what once was.

I also love the tale of “Beauty and the Beast.”

What started out as a harsh situation of captivity turned into a beautiful love story. Why? Because kindness showed up, for both characters. When we exercise kindness (itself within the tribe of love), it softens a situation—a gentle approach, a caring spirit, a desire to see another happy even if it means sacrificing our own desires.

“Love inspires, illuminates, designates and leads the way.” — Mary Baker Eddy There is so much to write on the subject of love, but for now we know that love lives. Love is alive in each one of us. It might be small, faint or almost nonexistent, but you were born of love, the Divine Love. Love may be vibrant, rich and fully awake inside of you. For all the many forms of love there are, we see it expressed each day, from a small gesture such as a mother making breakfast for her spouse or children, a husband brushing his wife’s hair, giving the bigger half of the sandwich to your sibling or sharing a toy. We see it when someone says “thank you” or offers a genuine compliment. We also see it when people stand by each other’s side through triumphs and tragedies.

Find the love inside of you, and share it with others every day.

Live in love.

Jennifer Durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook Day Spa & Gift Shoppe. Visit nurturenook.com or facebook.com/nurturenook dayspa or call 615-896-7110 for more information.

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