Events

PRECIOUS ANGELS CONSIGNMENT SALE Precious Angels Children’s Consignment Sale returns for its Spring 2022 sale from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Wednesday–Friday, March 2–4, and from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Held at the Woodbury Community Center Gym (630 Lehman St., Woodbury, adjacent to the Head Start building), the sale offers items for babies, toys, kids’ clothing, maternity clothing, home decor, books, furniture and more. For more information, visit preciousangelsconsignment.com.

CRAFTING AT CANNONSBURGH: PAINTING GARDEN MARKERS AND POTS Grab a friend or two and craft at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) Thursday, March 3, from 4–6 p.m. Paint markers for your garden to take home or give as gifts. Bring a list of what you are planning to plant this year. Admission is $10 per person and ages 18 and up are welcome. Reservations are required by calling 615-801-2606 or emailing mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov.

FIRST FRIDAYS WITH C.A.T. CHOREOGRAPHY C.A.T. Choreography is offering two fun hip-hop classes every fi rst Friday of the month (March 4) at no charge. Dancers ages 8 and up are welcome to bust a move from 4–5 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.). For more information, call 615-8937439 or email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov.

MEALS OF HOPE MTSU alumni Emily and Aaron Cox recently partnered with Meals of Hope to sponsor the packing of 50,000 meals to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee to help feed hungry people in the community. About 120 volunteers from local businesses, schools, civic organizations and religious organizations come together to pack meals. Meals of Hope is based in Florida and has been doing mealpacking events since 2007. Join them at World Outreach Church (1921 New Salem Rd.) on Saturday, March 5, from 9–11 a.m. Volunteers pack assorted meals and each of them is fortifi ed with vitamins and minerals. The meals only cost around $0.30 per unit. Meals of Hope is different from some organizations in that the food stays local, and those who sponsor the food-packing event can choose exactly who and where the food is donated to. Volunteers are needed and welcomed. For more information, email aecox@mealsofhope.org, call 615-624-0560 or visit mealsofhope.org.

PHOTO BY ASHLEIGH NEWNES

RAPTOR RHAPSODY AT WILDERNESS STATION Have you ever looked an owl in the eye or checked out a falcon’s wings? Meet the educational screech owl and American kestrel up close and learn about these master predators of the sky at the Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) March 3, 8, 19 and 22. There is no cost to join and all ages are welcome. Registration is recommended by calling 615-217-3017. For more information, email dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov.

DIANA HEALTH’S GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION Join Diana Health’s Grand Opening Community Celebration in the parking lot of StoneCrest (300 StoneCrest Blvd., Smyrna) on Saturday, March 5, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., for free, fun family-friendly activities including: a bounce house, balloon artist, music, prizes, food trucks (Pie Town Tacos and Chang Noi), DIY wellness activities, community vendors and parenting workshops. The fi rst 100 guests receive a free lunch. For more information, visit heydianahealth.com.

SHABBY LANE SPRING EMPORIUM EVENT Support 70 small businesses and shop local on Saturday, March 5, from 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Admission is free and the fi rst 100 shoppers receive a goodie bag. Enjoy fabulous shopping, food and fun at Lane Agri-Park (315 John Rice Blvd., #101). For more information on this and future events, visit shabbylaneshoppingevents.com.

FREE YOGA, MEDIATION AND MIMOSAS Yoga classes at Royal Massage and Yoga (423 W. Lytle St.) are taught by a certifi ed yoga instructor, and the community classes are beginner-friendly. Saturday, March 5, from 8–9 a.m. is a free class, open to the community; donations are accepted. Please bring your own mat (they are available to rent for $5). On Saturday, March 12, come out for Meditation and Mimosas from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Enjoy a 1-hour yoga class followed by meditation and mimosas. After class enjoy brunch and a mimosa bar with your new yoga buddies, or get a delicious cup of tea and relax in the zen lounge. For more information or to register, fi nd a Mediation and Mimosas event on Eventbrite or visit royalmassageandyoga.com.

MATILDA JR. AUDITIONS Rebellion is nigh in Matilda Jr., a gleefully witty ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination. This story of a girl whose dreams of a better life and the children she inspires has audiences rooting for the “revolting children” out to teach the grown-ups a lesson. Vocal and monologue auditions are at The Washington Theater at Patterson Park (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) March 7 and 9 from 5:30–10 p.m. for ages 10–18. For more information, call 615-893-7439 ext. 6130 or email ocraker@murfreesborotn.gov.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT CITY AUTO Come out to City Auto (1015 Bridge Ave.) for the March Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours on Tuesday, March 8, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. The Chamber presents an informal, social networking event to connect business professionals from across Rutherford County. Bring plenty of business cards. Admission is $10 for Chamber of Commerce members and $20 for future members. For more information on Chamber events, visit rutherfordchamber.org.

RUTHERFORD CABLE— WOMEN MOVING FORWARD Crissy Wieck speaks about knowing your priorities and values at the Rutherford Cable-Women Moving Forward, March Breakfast Meeting at the Doubletree Murfreesboro (1850 Old Fort Pkwy.) with a virtual Zoom option, Tuesday, March 8, from 7:15–9 a.m. Wieck was born in Nashville and graduated from The Harpeth Hall School. After working at Dell for 12 years, she joined her family business after CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 the death of her father’s business partner. She has spent 10 years at Western Express and is currently the Chief Sales Offi cer and a minority owner. She is married to Matt Wiltshire and has three daughters, a son and two stepsons. Members and guests are welcome. Advance registration closes at noon on Friday, March 4, with a $5 late fee for walk-up registration. Remember to bring plenty of business cards and grab a card from the basket on the way out to make an additional connection. For more information, email yourrutherfordcable@gmail.com.

LIVING SENT MINISTRIES MURFREESBORO MEETING The March 2022 Living Sent Murfreesboro Meeting is Wednesday, March 9, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Experience (521 Old Salem Rd.). Cherie Jobe knows what it means to have life fall apart because of mistakes made. Jobe shares how she moved forward in life and business, leaving the heartache, pain and rejection behind. A complimentary lunch is provided by Zaxby’s. Please RSVP by emailing bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.

SUNFLOWER PLANTER AT THE WILDERNESS STATION Spring is in the air, and what better time to decorate your own fl owerpot at the Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Thursday, March 10, from 10–11 a.m. Plant sunfl ower seeds to take home and watch grow. Ages 4 and up are welcome. The cost is $5 per person. Registration is required and can be made by calling 615-217-3017. For more information, email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

MISUNDERSTOOD REPTILES Explore our misunderstood yet very important reptiles up close with live demonstrations of the educational and beloved turtles, lizards and snakes at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Thursday, March 10, from 4–5 p.m. The activity is free for all ages and no registration is required. For more information, email dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

BORO GATSBY PARTY The Gatsby Party will be a night to remember on Saturday, March 12, at The Walnut House (116 N. Walnut St.) from 7 p.m.–midnight. Earlybird general admission is $100 and regular general admission is $125. General admission includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine and custom cocktails, local brews, selfi e booth and fancy photo ops, entertainment and dancing, casino games, branded swag items and four drink tickets. A VIP option is also available. For more information, call 615-904-4359 or visit wildgoosechase.events.

ANTONIA ROYAL-WHITMORE BOOK SIGNING Linebaugh Public Library hosts local author Antonia Royal-Whitmore for a book signing on Thursday, March 10, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Whitmore is the author of Boys Wash Their Hands Too, along with several other works. Boys Wash Their Hands Too was created to remind and educate young readers on the importance of handwashing. Written in English and Spanish, the book also encourages children to learn and explore alternative languages. Antonia Royal-Whitmore is the founder of Mind of Gold, designed to create and provide representative media and literature. Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St.

WILLY FUNKY JAM Willy Funky Jam is a gathering and fundraiser for Coconut Bay Cafe’s trivia master, manager and dear friend Willy Cannon. Cannon has been with The Bay for more than a decade and has headlined and orchestrated many extraordinary events, gatherings, social activities and fundraisers. Guests are invited to support Cannon in his healing after a heart attack, and support his physical and emotional journey into recovery on Sunday, March 13, from 3–8 p.m. at Coconut Bay Cafe (210 Stones River Mall Blvd.). Zone Status, Escape, New Binge and Stranger Than Fiction perform. Enjoy food and beverage specials, a silent auction and bake sale and more. For more information, visit Coconut Bay Cafe on Facebook.

SNAKE FEEDING Learn about snake adaptations and how they swallow their food whole with a live demonstration from the educational snakes getting fed at the Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Mondays, March 14 and 28, from 11–11:30 a.m. The cost is free for all ages; no registration is required. For more information, email dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

NASP MURFREESBORO NETWORKING EVENT The Nashville Association of Sales Professionals hosts its Murfreesboro networking event the second and fourth Mondays of each month (March 14 and 28) in the Burger Bar Restaurant in The Doubletree by Hilton (1850 Old Fort Pkwy.). Networking starts at 11 a.m. with the meeting at 11:30 a.m. NASP is a professional nonprofi t organization that provides a positive forum for skill enhancement training and networking for career people in sales. Learn how to become a more polished and successful sales professional by improving your presentation and enhancing your people skills. Everyone from new sales professionals to seasoned road warriors is invited to attend. For more information, visit nashville-nasp.org.

NATURE PLAY AT THE WILDERNESS STATION Ready to get messy? Nature play is back! It’s an hour of fun when kids can get messy with activities like mud painting, shaving cream art, paint stomping and chalk at the Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) Tuesday, March 15, from 10–11 a.m. Bring a change of clothes for your child. Ages 1 and up are welcome with adult supervision. The cost to join is free and no registration is required. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

WATERCOLOR PAINTING CLASS During this beginner’s class, learn how to paint evergreen branches and pinecones to gain the skill of creating beautiful greeting cards and frame-able nature pictures. Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) provides a relaxing time of creativity on Tuesday, March 15, from 10–11 a.m. No previous painting experience is needed. Space is limited, and registration is required by March 14 by calling 615-217-3017. The cost to join is $5 per person. For more information, email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

NATURE BUILD IT, MAKE IT, USE IT: BUILD A BIRDHOUSE Get inspired and learn how to use basic tools to build and create nature-inspired pieces to use around your home and garden. All supplies are provided. Space is limited so register early (by March 11). Ages 15 and up are welcome Tuesday, March 15, from 6–7:30 p.m. The cost to join is $20 per person. For more information, email dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

TODDLER ADVENTURES: ALL THINGS GREEN Get some outside time at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.) on Thursday, March 17, from 10–11 a.m. Kids enjoy a scavenger hunt, an activity and story time. Reservations are now open and can be made by calling 615-801-2606 or emailing mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov by March 10. The cost is $3 per person and ages 5 and under are welcome.

THE CONNECTION AT 219 219 Broad Street Mixed Cuisine (219 NW Broad St.) hosts the March 2022 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, March 17. All Middle Tennessee entrepreneurs and professionals are welcome to at-

tend the casual, free, no-obligation event, where they can meet other small business owners and tap into one another’s experience and energy. For more information, visit 219broadstreetmixedcuisine.com.

SIP, SHOP AND STROLL Sip, shop and stroll in Historic Downtown Murfreesboro on Thursday, March 17, from 5–8 p.m. for a ladies’ night out. Find unique gifts, clothes, delicious food and drinks for a late night of downtown shopping. For more information, fi nd the event on Facebook.

SOUTHERN EQUINE EXPO The 9th Annual Southern Equine Expo returns to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304 W Thompson Ln.) March 18–20, from 8 a.m.–5 p.m., with a reputation of providing the highest quality clinics presented by nationally known horsemen, educational seminars, hands-on demonstrations and shopping from over 85 vendors. Southern Equine Expo is dedicated to improving the care of horses through education of their owners. Attendees can hear clinics by Ken McNabb, Guy McLean, Patrick King and Carl Bledsoe. Colt Starting Challenge Clinicians and other nationally known horsemen, educational workshops, Smoky Mountain Trail Challenge and hands-on demonstrations are available. For the past fi ve years, vendor spaces have sold out. For more information, visit southernequineexpo.com.

RAPTOR DAY Explore the fascinating world of raptors with live demonstrations of various birds of prey on Saturday, March 19, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). Participate in fun activities planned for all while learning about the world of falconry. All ages are welcome. No registration is required and there is no cost to join. For more information, email dthomas@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS The Washington Theater at Patterson Park (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) will host a local contemporary-band, singleround Battle of the Bands competition and concert on Saturday, March 19, from 7–10 p.m. All ages are welcome. Admission is $10 per person. For more information email thewashingtontheatre@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-893-7439 ext. 6129. SPECIAL KIDS RACE Special Kids will hold its 11th Annual Special Kids Race on Saturday, March 19, at the Murfreesboro Medical Clinic and Surgicenter (1272 Garrison Dr.). The 5K, 10K and 15K will travel through Stones River Battlefi eld. This community event is for dedicated and casual runners, and families who want to do the 1-mile fun run or walk. Awards are for top fi nishers and top fundraisers, and everyone can look forward to musical entertainment, a kid’s fun zone, refreshments and activities for your children. All are welcome to get involved whether as a runner, walker, virtual runner, donor or volunteer. All proceeds support Special Kids Therapy and Nursing Center in fi lling the gap between insurance reimbursement and costs for children. A family discount of $10 off per runner is offered for families. The cost includes your entry, special event shirt, fi nisher medal and great treats at the fi nish line. Additional Special Kids swag and VIP parking options are also available. For more information, visit specialkidsrace.org.

COUNTRY HAM BREAKFAST Join the Kitrell Volunteer Fire Department for a great country ham breakfast to help support the local fi re department the third Saturday of each month (March 19, April 16) through May from 6–10 a.m. at the Kittrell Volunteer Fire Dept. (8067 Woodbury Pk.). For more information, fi nd the Kittrell Volunteer Fire Department on Facebook.

JEEP DAY SPRING KICK OFF Jeep enthusiasts are invited to celebrate spring at the Jeep Day Spring Kick Off at Big Creek Winery Tasting Room (7027 Main St., Christiana) on Sunday, March 20, from 3–6 p.m. Enjoy food trucks such as Fatty Matty’s Pizza Truck, and music from Lane Shackleford. For more information, call 615-785-2124.

HOME-SCHOOL SCIENCE SERIES: HABITATS Help your home-school students explore the world through science as they study different topics each class with hands-on demonstrations at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). Space is limited. Registration is required by calling 615-217-3017. There are two groups, one for ages 5–8 and 9–12 on Thursday, March 24, from 10–11:30 a.m. The cost is $5 per student per class. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

CARMEN MAPLES BOOK SIGNING Linebaugh Public Library hosts local author Carmen Maples for a book signing on Thursday, March 24, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Inspired by a bond from a fi rst-time grandmother, Gigi’s Little Dreamer highlights the relationship between a grandmother and her granddaughter. For this little girl, there is no greater joy than visiting her grandma Gigi. It is a place where unforgettable memories are made and inspiring adventures are had. This charming rhyming picture book created by Carmen Maples is paired with playful illustrations from Jasmine Mills. Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St.

STUFFED ANIMAL BABYSITTING During spring break, don’t leave your stuffed animal at home while you are on vacation. Bring them to spend the week at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.). Staff is on hand to babysit and take your fl uffy friend on adventures, give them snacks, have art time and tuck them in at night for a good night’s sleep. You can check on them through the photos posted on Facebook during the week and comment with questions about how they are doing. Fluffy friends can be dropped off Friday, March 25, from 10 a.m.–noon. and picked up Friday, April 1, from 10 a.m.–noon. If you are traveling and need to plan, other dropoff or pick-up dates and times are available. For more information, call 615-801-2606 or email mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov.

WELCOME TO SEUSSVILLE TODDLER CELEBRATION Welcome to Seussville at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) as the park partners with MGL Library to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday on Friday, March 25, from 10–11 a.m. Ages 2–5 are invited for fun and Dr. Seussinspired story time, activities, games and prizes. Admission is a canned food item. For more information, call 615-893-7439 ext. 6121 or email cellis@murfreesborotn.gov.

WOMEN OF HOPE WEEKEND Join the Women of Hope Weekend 2022 for a weekend of laughter, friendship, inspiring worship and challenging stories of hope at Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro (1200 Conference Center Blvd.) March 25 and 26. Whether it’s a weekend getaway for you and a friend, or a women’s retreat for your entire church, everything is planned for you: lodging, dining and shopping, all within walking distance. Hear from special guest Chrystal Evans Hurst, 2022 Woman of Hope Patricia Rodriguez and keynote speaker Lori Boyd. For more information, visit hhi.org/womenofhope.

MIDDLE TENNESSEE SINFONIETTA On Saturday, March 26, at 7 p.m., The Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta will present its seasonal concert, Sounds of Spring, an evening fi lled with spring-inspired music, at the Washington Theatre. Jeffrey Keever founded the Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta, comprised of collegiate, graduate and professional musicians, to cultivate the Middle Tennessee artistic community and deliver new artistic experiences. Admission to the March 26 concert is free, with a suggested donation of $5. Washington Theatre is located in Patterson Park CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Murfreesboro). For more information, visit mtsinfonietta.com.

SOUTHERN SPRING MARKET Makers Market Tennessee invites everyone to a handmade market on Saturday, March 26, from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at the beautiful Magnolia Farms (2139 Allisona Rd., Eagleville). This is a free indoor market featuring local artists, crafters and makers with all unique and original items. For all updates and information, follow Magnolia Farms Events on Facebook and visit makersmarkettn.com.

SPRING CRAFT PARTY AT WILDERNESS STATION

Welcome in spring with a fun craft at the Wilderness Station at Barfi eld Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, March 29, from 10–11 a.m. Talk about the spring season and all it has to offer, enjoy a short hike and come back to make a craft. Registration is recommended by calling 615-217-3017. Ages 3 and up are welcome. The cost is $3 per person. For more information, email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

BBB NETWORKING AT RIDENOUR The Better Business Bureau presents a networking event from 4–7 p.m., Tuesday, March 29, at Ridenour Rehearsal Studios (1203 Park Ave., Murfreesboro). All local business professionals are welcome for food, beverages and connections. Rackley Roofi ng sponsors the event. For more in- WEDNESDAYS WILD THINGS AT THE WILDERNESS STATION Let the smaller among us get in touch with their wild side at the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Wednesdays in March from 9:30–10:30 a.m. and 10:45–11:45 a.m. Sing songs, read a story, complete a craft and conclude with a short walk. The focus is on a different nature theme each week. Preregistration is required by calling 615-217-3017 the day before. Cost is $3 per child. For more information, email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

formation on the event or the BBB, contact James Price at jprice@gobbb.org.

RIVER EXPLORATION Meet at the Stones River Overlook within Barfi eld Crescent Park on Thursday, March 31, from 10 a.m.–noon to explore the river and to catch and release crawfi sh, snails and other interesting macroinvertebrates. Discuss biodiversity and the importance of healthy waterways. Water shoes are recommended, as footwear is required for anyone getting in the water. There is no cost to join and it is free for all ages. Registration is not required but recommended by calling 615-217-3017. For more information, email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov.

NETWORKING FOR AWESOME PEOPLE Are you looking to meet and connect with other local business owners? Do you want to grow your network and pick up some skills along the way? Networking for Awesome People meets every Wednesday from 9–10 a.m. at Iberia Bank Education Room (1639 Medical Center Pkwy.). Each attendee gets about a minute to explain what they do and what they need. Then, participate in a discussion question of the week. The group was nicknamed The Mastermind Group because open discussions are encouraged to help each other grow. Find out more information, fi nd Networking for Awesome People on Eventbrite.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION The Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting the area’s local history since 1971. If you are researching your family, your property, or are just interested in old, fun facts, the RCHS is the place to go. Learn more at Coffee & Conversation each Saturday morning from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). Meetings are very informal, fun and informative. Funding comes from membership dues, grants, a trust fund and donations. Membership dues or donations go to preserving and promoting local history. For more information, visit rutherfordtnhistory.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET Each Friday, beginning Friday, April 1, from 5–9 p.m., enjoy fun for the whole family with food trucks, shopping, music, and more from Murfreesboro Markets and Events at Cannonsburgh Village (312 S. Front St.). Small and local businesses set up in the market. Admission is free. For more information, join the Friday Night in the Boro Facebook group.

BY STEVE MORLEY

THE JUNE 2021 ISSUE of the Pulse introduced readers to Tom Blizzard, a.k.a. Turntable Medic, who specializes in repairing vintage phonographs and virtually all things audio. Since we printed that story, there’s been a signifi cant spin of the platter, as his workshop was moved from his home garage to a dedicated storefront located at 603 W. Burton St., Suite F. One of those rare types with mechanical as well as artistic leanings, Blizzard succeeded in making the now-equipment-stuffed shop a nonetheless cozy and appealing nook, a nostalgic nod to the heyday of home hi-fi systems.

It was Blizzard’s affection for tinkering with old tube radios and console stereos that sparked this phase of his many-hued career, which took off like a rocket early last year . . . in exhilarating yet excruciating tandem with the March 2021 cancer diagnosis given to Blizzard’s wife, Aubrey, triggering an unexpected shift of priorities that proved a major challenge to Blizzard’s budding business.

“Things were getting busy about the time that Aubrey received her cancer diagnosis,” he explains, “and from that point I have been behind. We truly want to help everyone that needs a repair as quickly as possible, but it just isn’t always possible. Most customers are very understanding.”

Blizzard tried fruitlessly for months to locate qualifi ed help; he’s delighted to announce that, since last October, he’s added two staffers—military-trained technician Stephen and semi-retired electrical engineer Matthew. As a result, says Blizzard, turnaround time “is improving greatly, as well as communication with customers.” The latter is largely due to the shop’s newest staffer, Katherine, who handles phone, internet, text and email.

With skilled electronics pros now on board, the focus is on hiring someone with a mechanical aptitude: “I keep hoping that one ‘mechanically inclined individual’ will stumble across my doorstep!” Doorstep activity at the new shop, though, has been anything but accidental.

“The store is working out great—people absolutely come through the door every day,” he reports. An added bonus for walk-ins needing repair service is the availability of phonograph needles and accessories as well as a selection of used receivers, turntables and speakers for sale and consignment.

The Medic also offers drop-off and pickup at the nearby Great Escape, his fi rst local retail partner (he partners with fi ve additional vinyl-sellers in Middle Tennessee). “They are open later than we are, and also on the weekends. It’s just a great convenience for our customers locally.”

“It’s great getting to connect with every customer,” he continues. “We got to help a young fellow with his science project a few days ago. He had built a crystal radio,” Blizzard says, “and was having an issue getting it to work properly. We helped him get it going . . . and hopefully an ‘A’ on the assignment. That never could’ve happened without the storefront here.”

Blizzard’s service-friendly mentality, fi ttingly enough, is reciprocated by neighboring businesspeople in and around the strip at 603 W. Burton St.

“The other tenants are fantastic. My accountant is 10 steps away. Around the corner is a machine shop—a great resource for me, and the owner is also a customer,” he says with a grin. “Even right next door is a business that also does some specialized electronics repair. We occasionally swap parts if one or the other is low on stock and something needs to be repaired now! It’s a very supportive group of folks.”

Support is the word of the day for Tom and Aubrey, who can scarcely express their full gratitude for the care, prayer and assistance they’ve received from the community. Aubrey, who last month underwent the second of at least three planned surgeries, is only midway through the maze and, at best, months away from resuming work. The couple’s GoFundMe account, which has brought in crucial help, is approaching its $18,000 goal. The fundraiser, for anyone interested, is named “Aubrey’s Breast Cancer: Medical and Living Expenses.”

Aubrey’s online journal, which unfl inchingly yet graciously captures both the horrors and the heights of her and Tom’s experience, can be found at caringbridge.org (a link is posted in the Updates section of the GoFundMe page). “I look forward to her weekly updates,” says Blizzard, “and I live with her! [The journal] keeps our loved ones informed, and hopefully can be encouraging to anyone else going through something very diffi cult.”

“During the most trying times, we have had neighbors, friends and even strangers helping to ease the burden,” Blizzard says. When he says he’s “thrilled to be here,” he’s talking not only about his shop, but about living in Murfreesboro, period. “If you turn down the divisions of social media, the community in action is really amazing. We’re lucky to be here, and I couldn’t imagine a better place for my business to grow.”

Turntable Medic Vintage Audio Repair is located at 603 W. Burton St., Suite F, Murfreesboro; fi nd a GoFundMe campaign at “Aubrey’s Breast Cancer: Medical & Living Expenses.”

JIMMY EAT WORLD

BY MELISSA COKER

AS A WISE MAN ONCE SAID— GEOLOGY ROCKS.

With that said, it’s time to get away from the concrete jungle, dig a little deeper, and keep Middle Tennessee in tune as Monteagle Mountain brings even more bass to its base, kicking off the tapings for its new season of PBS’s Bluegrass Underground.

From deep inside Cumberland Caverns to its current home (since 2018) at The Caverns in the base of Monteagle Mountain, near Pelham, the Bluegrass Underground concert series has undergone a few formations throughout its incarnation (this season will be its 11th).

The subterranean musical adventure series has featured both long-established and emerging artists across a broad spectrum of American roots genres over its Emmy-winning years since 2011, and is ready to welcome audiences back with open arms and an open cave mouth.

It’s a soundscape two years in the remaking—the nature-made venue took the opportunity to get its hands dirty outside in the would-be downtime, swiftly assembling a tremendous outdoor amphitheater in only six weeks during a cavernous two-year pandemic pause halting shows inside of the Caverns.

But now the cave is ready for the return of more rocky-topped tunes.

THE DEL MCCOURY BAND gets things underway underground on March 5, before the offi cial PBS series begins. The “most awarded band in the history of bluegrass” is in fi ne form, having just released fresh cuts with the album Almost Proud in February. On March 6, THE MAVERICKS (noted WMOT cave-circuit faves), joined by SWEET LIZZY PROJECT, jump in with music for all occasions. As a Caverns post puts it, to miss them would be a crying shame.

JIMMY EAT WORLD and DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL take hold with their Surviving the Truth tour March 11 and 12 before Bluegrass Underground gets underway the following week for three days of PBS taping, March 18–20.

This three-day event features bona fi de Western-swing stalwarts Asleep at the Wheel, bluegrass phenoms MOLLY TUTTLE & GOLDEN HIGHWAY, two-time Grammy-winning producer and countryrock legacy artist SHOOTER JENNINGS, alternative rockers MOON TAXI, blues innovator BUFFALO NICHOLS, breakout songwriter KATIE PRUITT, Southern gothic songwriter ADIA VICTORIA, emerging Americana sensation BRIT TAYLOR (if you can relate to Brit’s “Waking Up Ain’t Easy” you might want to make a day and an overnight stay of it), Mardi Gras Indian funk band CHA WA, bluegrass-meets-hip-hop act GANGSTAGRASS, bluegrass collaborative WATKINS FAMILY HOUR and three-time Grammy-nominated indie folk duo THE MILK CARTON KIDS.

These Bluegrass Underground shows are sold out, but will be available to view across the nation upon the PBS season premiere in fall 2022 (seen on WNPT in Middle Tennessee).

“At last, we’re getting back to what we do best: capturing magical performances in a magical subterranean setting,” says Bluegrass Underground creator and co-producer Todd Mayo. “As the secondlongest-running music series on American television, we’re grateful for our longtime partnership with PBS and WCTE. Together we’re able to bring television viewers a diversity of roots music from one of the most iconic music destinations in the world, The Caverns in Grundy County, Tennessee.”

BOY NAMED BANJO and TENILLE TOWNES hit the venue on March 26 and then AARON LEWIS, GODSPEED YOU! BLACK EMPEROR, RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE, J.J. GREY and MOFRO, and other bright spots await in the surrounding months. So, boasting all of this and then some—stone-cold Southern rockers BLACKBERRY SMOKE cut their own groove April 15–16—it’s safe to say this polished place has emerged from its hibernation fi t as a fi ddle.

Accordion-ingly, the weird word-crimer WEIRD AL YANKOVIC rounds out the rave in the cave for the month of May, further inviting cave-dwellers to make a day of mineral enrichment. He’s underground for a weekend stint on his (oh-so-easy-toremember, rolls-right-off-the-tongue) Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously SelfIndulgent Ill-Advised Vanity Tour days before it surfaces at the Ryman. Maybe Daniel Radcliffe will even stop in to brush up on his studies of the star (no yanking here—Radcliffe will portray Yankovic in a soon-to-be Roku TV biopic).

The Caverns music hall is accessible to those with disabilities or mobility concerns. Food, beverages and other unique items are available for purchase and, yes, the inside area is also equipped with restrooms. Ticket costs and packages vary signifi cantly (options range from general admission and reserved to cave tours, vehicle hookups and hotel stays in either Monteagle or Manchester). Cave tour tickets can be redeemed for up to one year after purchase. Many concert packages come with posters and other one-of-a-kind designed memorabilia offerings. Review individual show information and reserve tickets at thecaverns.com. The Caverns is located at 555 Charlie Roberts Rd., Pelham, Tennessee. For more information, call 931-516-9724 or visit thecaverns.com or bluegrassunderground.com.

AUTUMN NICHOLS

TWO OF MUSIC CITY’S RISING STARS, Autumn Nicholas and Madeline Finn, will kick off their Nashville Stories Tour at Murfreesboro’s Gallagher Unplugged on Friday, March 25.

Opening for the tour in Murfreesboro is Kinslee Melhorn, a 2018 graduate of MTSU with a degree in music business who recently released her newest single, “Addison’s Treehouse.”

Nicholas and Finn, two emerging, authentic voices in Americana and folk music, have shared the stage with Ashley McBryde, RaeLyn, Edwin McCain, Taylor KINSLEE MELHORN Hicks, Collective Soul, Afroman, Temptations and more.

Billboard wrote of Nicholas that she “uses her stellar pop/R&B sound to address issues like labels (‘Light’), social inequality (‘Side by MADELINE FINN Side’) and much more, all while showing off her incredible vocals and her natural acumen for songwriting.”

Singer-songwriter Madeline Finn has amassed a stunning catalog that shines light on life’s emotional complexities. Her latest two singles, “Ohio” and “Whippoorwill” were produced by Ben Cramer (Old Sea Brigade) and Owen Lewis (Phillip Phillips, Lady Gaga), respectively.

Find a Nashville Stories Tour playlist on Spotify. Find tickets to the Nashville Stories Tour at Gallagher Unplugged on Eventbrite. Gallagher Unplugged is located at 118 N. Walnut St., Murfreesboro.

BOROPULSE.COM/CALENDAR

HANK’S Alexis Taylor Alexis Taylor THURS, 3/3

HANDLEBARS Thursday Blues Jam Thursday Blues Jam HANK’S HANK’S Brandt Carmichael Brandt Carmichael MTSU WRIGHT MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING MUSIC BUILDING Coffee Cantata & Coffee Cantata & Cabalettas; Flute studio Cabalettas; Flute studio FRI, 3/4

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA TAQUERIA Joe West Joe West HANK’S HANK’S Delyn Christian; Delyn Christian; Lefty Ferguson Lefty Ferguson JACK’S PLACE AT JACK’S PLACE AT MILANO II MILANO II Tony Castellanos Tony Castellanos MAYDAY BREWERY MAYDAY BREWERY Mr. Grey Mr. Grey PUCKETT’S PUCKETT’S Aberdeen Aberdeen THE BORO THE BORO Five Ton Faces Five Ton Faces SAT, 3/5

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA TAQUERIA Joe West Joe West CEDAR SPRINGS CEDAR SPRINGS RANCH RANCH Six One Five Collective Six One Five Collective HANK’S HANK’S Dirt Road Daisies; Dirt Road Daisies; Zach Neil Zach Neil HOP SPRINGS HOP SPRINGS Second Self; The Second Self; The Stephens; Big, If True; Stephens; Big, If True; The Breaknecks The Breaknecks HOTSHOTZ HOTSHOTZ Backlit Backlit MTSU WRIGHT MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING MUSIC BUILDING Orpheus Vocal Competition Orpheus Vocal Competition PUCKETT’S PUCKETT’S Olivia Faye Olivia Faye SEASONS SEASONS Tony & the Attitude Band Tony & the Attitude Band THE BORO THE BORO Be Kind, Rewind Be Kind, Rewind SUN, 3/6

HANK’S Crosstown Crosstown HOP SPRINGS HOP SPRINGS Americana Sunday Jam Americana Sunday Jam MTSU WRIGHT MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING MUSIC BUILDING Orpheus Vocal Competition Orpheus Vocal Competition MON, 3/7

HANK’S Open Mic Night Open Mic Night

HANK’S Karree J. Phillips WED, 3/9

HANK’S Robyn Taylor THURS, 3/10

BERT DRIVER’S BURLAP ROOM Griffin Winton HANDLEBARS Thursday Blues Jam HANK’S Cary Watson PUCKETT’S The Jolly String Quartet FRI, 3/11

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West HANK’S Jake Clayton; Jack Finley Band JACK’S PLACE Tony Castellanos MAYDAY BREWERY Tom Davison PUCKETT’S The Deltaz SEASONS Cooter River Band SAT. 3/12

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West CEDAR SPRINGS RANCH Patrick Murphy; Tana Matz; Dakota Striplin HANK’S Ginger Cowgirl; Stacy Antonel; Phil Valdez GALLAGHER UNPLUGGED Delyn Christian PUCKETT’S Dairy Daughters SEASONS Pretty Grimm THE BORO Noisecult SUN, 3/13

COCONUT BAY CAFE Fundraiser for Willy Funk with Zone Status; Escape; New Binge; Stranger Than Fiction HOP SPRINGS Americana Sunday Jam MON, 3/14

HANK’S Open Mic Night MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING David Cyzak

HANK’S Will King WED, 3/16

HANK’S Darryl and Julie O’Donnell MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Lee Johnson; David Drewke THURS, 3/17

HANDLEBARS Thursday Blues Jam HANK’S Spencer Maige MAYDAY BREWERY TopHouse MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Jazz Ensemble I FRI, 3/18

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR Prom Night with DJ Mic Precise HANK’S Sara Simmons; Jeff Caron Band JACK’S PLACE Tony Castellanos MAYDAY BREWERY Delyn Christian MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Tom Naylor Memorial Competition PUCKETT’S Runaway Home SEASONS Jason Minton THE BORO J.L. Fulks SAT, 3/19

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West GALLAGHER UNPLUGGED Jake Leg Stompers HANK’S The Hammonds; Cooter River Band MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Bernadette Comage; Alexander Baldwin; Tyler Middleton; Natalie Mays PUCKETT’S Troy Kemp SEASONS Reunion Station THE BORO Terrestrial Troubadours and friends WASHINGTON THEATRE Battle of the Bands SUN, 3/20

HANK’S Emily Miller HOP SPRINGS Americana Sunday Jam MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Emory Gaskill; Loucky Trombone Studio; Combest Low Brass Studio MON, 3/21

HANK’S Open Mic Night MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Jazz Ensemble II TUES, 3/22

HANK’S Delyn Christian MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Saxophone Studio WED, 3/23

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Andre Madatian THURS, 3/24

HANDLEBARS Thursday Blues Jam HANK’S Joe Hooper MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING MTSU Wind Ensemble; MTSU Symphonic Band PUCKETT’S The Jolly String Quartet FRI, 3/25

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West GALLAGHER UNPLUGGED Autumn Nichols; Madeline Finn; Kinslee Melhorn HANK’S Blake Esse; Justin Dukes JACK’S PLACE Tony Castellanos MAYDAY BREWERY Miguel Dakota MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Will King directing Dvorak Wind Serenade; Cheyenne Reames; Lily Witemeyer PUCKETT’S Herrick SEASONS Nightrain (Guns & Roses tribute) THE BORO Chad Bishop

BERT DRIVER’S BURLAP ROOM Kinfolk CARMEN’S TAQUERIA Joe West GALLAGHER UNPLUGGED The Road Crew HANK’S Hunter Girl; Whiskey Smoke HOP SPRINGS Forever Abbey Road Beatles & ’60s Experience MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING High School Clarinet Day; String Studio PUCKETT’S Joyanna McDonald and friends WASHINGTON THEATRE Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta SUN, 3/27

HANK’S Karree J. Phillips HOP SPRINGS Americana Sunday Jam MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Hayley Gretz; Carli Cannon MON, 3/28

HANK’S Open Mic Night MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Stones River Chamber Players TUES, 3/29

HANK’S Jesse Morgan MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING James “Owen” Porter; Erich Smith WED, 3/30

HANK’S Krystal King MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Big Band Tribute to Duffy Jackson featuring drummer Chris Brown THURS, 3/31

HANDLEBARS Thursday Blues Jam HANK’S Tanner Burch MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING Maya Burt; Blumenthal, Dawson, Perkins recital

BERT DRIVER'S BURLAP ROOM 175 Hurricane Ridge Rd., Smithville, 615-597-9560

CARMEN’S TAQUERIA 206 W. Northfield Blvd. 615-848-9003

CEDAR SPRINGS RANCH 9638 Rocky Hill Rd., Lascassas, 615-719-3674

COCONUT BAY CAFE 210 Stones River Mall Blvd. 615-494-0504

GALLAGHER UNPLUGGED 118 N. Walnut St. 615-624-4196

GEORGIA’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 555 S. Lowry St., Smyrna 615-267-0295

HANDLEBARS 2601 E. Main St. 615-890-5661

HANK’S HONKY TONK 2341 Memorial Blvd. 615-410-7747

HOP SPRINGS 6670 John Bragg Hwy. 615-450-1907

HOTSHOTZ 1208 S. Lowry St., Smyrna 629-255-8296

JACK’S PLACE AT MILANO II 114 E. College St. 615-624-7390

MAYDAY BREWERY 521 Old Salen Rd. 615-603-7699

MTSU WRIGHT MUSIC BUILDING 1439 Faulkinberry Dr. 615-898-2469

PUCKETT’S GROCERY 114 N. Church St. 629-201-6916

SEASONS 2227 Old Fort Pkwy. 615-895-5471

THE BORO BAR & GRILL 1211 Greenland Dr. 615-895-4800

WASHINGTON THEATRE 521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 615-893-7439

THOSE WHO APPRECIATE GREAT SONGCRAFT and the inner workings of songwriters’ minds probably won’t fi nd a better spot to hang out in Rutherford County than Buddy’s Place. The monthly singer-songwriter series (featured at length in the August 2021 issue of the Pulse) is getting locked and loaded for its spring and summer shows. The show’s founder and namesake, Buddy Norris, recently gave the Pulse a holler to announce that March will feature a double-header: two nights of top-notch talent on two consecutive Saturdays: March 5 and 12.

Better move fast for that fi rst Buddy’s Place show, starring a four-barrel, high-caliber, singersongwriter combo known as Six One Five Collective. Group members Jamie Floyd, Michael Logen and Nicole Witt, between them, have had handfuls of hits by artists such as George Strait, Kelly Clarkson and Miranda Lambert, while indie artist Sarah Darling has amassed an international fan base with her uniquely personal songs. Musical styles will fl y, from bluegrass and Americana to pop-country, straight country and even Broadway-style fare.

On March 12, catch some of Nashville’s fi nest upand-coming country songwriting talent. Making return visits to Buddy’s Place are Australian transplant Dakota Striplin, Tana Matz and Patrick Murphy. Buddy reports that this trio of writerperformers delivers the goods emotionally, with songs ranging from witty to poignant.

The series’ current venue, Cedar Springs Ranch in Lascassas, is spacious-enough but still intimate-feeling concert seating area is weatherproofed and propane-heated as needed. Dress for the weather, but expect a cozy and relaxing setting.

The concerts are from 7–10 p.m., and tickets can be purchased for $20 each at buddysplacenashville.com, under the Reservations tab. Cedar Springs Ranch is located at 9638 Rocky Hill Rd., Lascassas, Tenneessee.

Oh . . . and Buddy says BYOB is a thing, too, y’all.

DAKOTA STRIPLIN

— STEVE MORLEY