Contents

Winds in performing all of the themes of the U.S. military branches at a concert at Old Fort Park last year, band director Erich Zimmerman mentioned the group would begin adding the Space Force anthem to such performances when that newest branch announced its musical theme.

And now, thanks to MTSU professor Jamie Teachenor, the Space Force does indeed have an official anthem. Kind of neat how that played out. Read more in this edition.

This month’s edition also has a strong dose of Eagleville news, as we highlight Grindstone Cowboy and Sorelles Italian Restaurant, two unique spots out there adding their flavor to the small Rutherford County town.

The buttercups are out, Mr. Mahomes has raised his second Super Bowl trophy (only five more to go until he equals Brady’s seven . . .) and March Madness is on the horizon. MTSU basketball has done well in conference play lately, going 5–2 during the month of February. The Conference USA tournament kicks off March 8 in Texas to determine which team will earn a berth into the big dance.

14

GrIndstone cowBoy

Eagleville’s coffee shop rides in hot (and iced) with music; Ty Herndon, Mindy Campbell, War Hippies among upcoming acts.

20 northrup falls

Walk behind 60-foot-tall waterfall situated within a lovely piece of a secluded Cumberland Plateau forest.

30 swInG and a hIt!

Golf at courses around the world at Tennessee Golf Station, even when it’s cold or dark outside.

32 network, enGaGe, eVolVe

Murfreesboro Technology Council is working to get internet access countywide, increase tech jobs in the area publisher/editor in chief: Bracken Mayo

calendar

Paws and Pearls, Wine & Whiskey at the Wetlands, Special Kids Race, 3rd Saturday Open Studio and more

12 Sounds musIc notes MTSU professor composes anthem for U.S. Space Force

Stefan Petrescu bids farewell to Tennessee Philharmonic

Secret Commonwealth continues St. Patrick’s Day tradition

Always Loretta tribute comes to Nashville

Markey Blue Ric Latina Project, March 18

Smells Like Nirvana at Hop Springs, March 18 concert calendar

Radio Pirate, Howlin Embers, The Deltaz and more

17 Reviews alBum

Züg moVIe The Banshees of Inisherin

22 Living nature news

Honeybee swarms mr. murfreesBoro

Celebrating birthdays in the ’Boro

25 Art

Jose Fernando Vargas creates mural at Tipico Discovery Center hosts Choctaw elder Sally Wells contributors: Tiffany Boyd, Melissa Coker, Jennifer Durand, Delores Elliott, Elisabeth Gay, Bryce Harmon, Laura Lindsay, Blaine Little, Chelsea LoCascio, Zach Maxfield, Sean Moran, Ashleigh Newnes, Jay Spight, Andrea Stockard Bill Wilson copy editor: Steve Morley art director: Sarah Mayo advertising: Nneka Sparks

714 w. m ain s t., s uite 208, murfreesboro, tn 37129 615-796-6248 to carry the pulse at your BusIness or to submit letters, stories and photography: bracken@boropulse.com

26 Food restaurant Sorelles Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

28 News

BusIness Buzz PennePazze, Blueprint Baseball, Siri Bubble Tea and more

33 Opinion ems serVIces

Know when and why to call an ambulance educatIon Foster respect in kids free your chIldren

In case you are wondering, the custom rack that Ryan Frizzell painted for the Pulse that long stood at Discovery Plaza on Broad Street now sits near the Kroger on Memorial Boulevard. So, that lovely artwork depicting Johnny Cash is currently right outside of Hank’s Honky Tonk. Fitting, we think.

The inaugural chess lunch at Carmen’s Taqueria was a success. Rob Mitchell, I and some of our chess playing acquaintances will return to Carmen’s on Wednesday, March 22, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Come out if you would like to join us for a game. Chess and chimichangas!

Some Tennessee political activists, writers, podcasters and candidates—some of which do indeed contribute some good points to the dialogue—have been complaining about a proposed state law that would require more transparency from groups accepting donations and trying to influence elections. They say it would make their groups reveal their funding sources, and that that would be a bad thing for free expression.

In most cases I would position myself on the side of free speech, but in this case I don’t see this as a free speech issue as much as an election transparency issue. No one is trying to keep anyone from saying anything with this effort. The purpose of the law would be to keep those bankrolling election campaigns out in the open and from using web-based “media outlets” as a mechanism for those with a political agenda to funnel money from secret sources towards supporting particular candidates and being a mouthpiece for certain political causes in the shadows.

Some have been so loud about the issue, so resistant to making public who supports their group, it has now made me very curious about who exactly is supporting these causes and outlets.

Anyway, as always, thanks to our readers, thanks to our advertisers—you know exactly who is funding this little community media source by flipping through our pages and noticing all of our fine local advertisers.

The Pulse wants to promote whoever funds it! Our sponsors are what keep this thing going. It is our job to give our sponsors exposure, not keep them hidden.

That is the difference between a media outlet and a political activist group, I suppose. It makes sense to me.

Tell the people in your life that you appreciate them, soon! Make some time for those you value. You never know when it will be your last chance.

During times of great stress and challenge, one of our greatest superpowers is the ability to breathe deeply. I don’t recall exactly where I saw that, but I like it!

Breathe deeply, Bracken mayo

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Find gently used spring and summer children’s clothes, shoes, baby equipment and furniture, bedding, sports equipment, costumes, toys, home-school materials and more at the Spring 2023 Precious Angels Consignment Sale. With its beginnings in 1996, Precious Angels now hosts two sales per year in Woodbury in the Community Center Gym (attached to the Head Start building, 630 Lehman St., Woodbury). Shopping times are Wednesday–Friday, March 1–3, from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. and Saturday, March 4, from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. For more information and consigning details, visit preciousangelsconsignment.com.

The Community Foundation of Rutherford County presents the Lone Star Rodeo on Friday and Saturday, March 3 and 4, at the MTSU Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304 W. Thompson Ln.). Lone Star Rodeo provides Western-style family entertainment and is recognized throughout the Southeast for top-notch stock, competition, pageantry and wholesome family fun. Food and drink vendors will offer families a variety of budget-friendly choices. Proceeds will benefit various nonprofits in Middle Tennessee. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 7–12 and admission is free for children aged 6 and under. Sponsorships are appreciated. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event starts at 7 p.m. For more information, visit cfrutherford.org/rodeo march 4 artIsan’s market at panther creek march 4 shaBBy lane sprInG emporIum

Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.) hosts an Artisan’s Market on Saturday, March 4, from 12 to 3 p.m. The day will feature lots of artisan tents from local food, art, craft and other vendors. Middle Tennessee Catering will be there with its food truck.

Shabby Lane Shopping Events presents its

wIne

On Friday, March 3, Wine & Whiskey at the Wetlands returns to the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring (502 SE Broad St.) from 5:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy samples of a variety of whiskeys, wines and spirits. This is a 21-and-up event and features more than 150 local and craft beverages provided by Stones River Total Beverages. Food will be available for purchase. Presented by Charlie Patel and Stones River Beverages, all proceeds benefit the Discovery Center and its programming. Tickets are available for purchase at explorethedc.org and are $35 in advance, $40 at the door and $15 for designated drivers. The Discovery Center also offers a $60 ticket bundle when guests purchase tickets to the museum’s Shakesbeer event in May. For more information, call 615-890-2300.

spring family shopping event, Shabby Lane Spring Emporium, at Lane Agri-Park Community Center (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) on Saturday, March 4. Shop with 75 amazing local small businesses and artisans. The Princess Party Meet and Greet is from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., live music is from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and small business shopping is from 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Admission is free, and there will be free gifts for the first 200 adult shoppers, free popcorn, cookies and fun for all ages. For more information, visit shabbylaneshoppingevents.com.

Rutherford County welcomes 64 high school basketball teams at Murphy Center (1500 Greenland Dr.) for the TSSAA State Basketball Championship. Girls kick off the tourney March 7–11, and the boys take the court March 14–18. General admission is $12 per day if purchased in advance and $15 per day at the gate; school-age children and older are required to have a ticket. Parking is $5 per day near Murphy Center in the large parking lot on Greenland Drive. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Having opened in 1972, the Charles M. Murphy Athletic Center serves as home of the Middle Tennessee State men’s and women’s basketball teams. For more information, visit gofan.co/tssaa march

The March 2023 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting is Wednesday, March 8, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Experience (521 Old Salem Rd.). Trent and Laura Messick are the speakers. Trent Messick started in business early. At age 23 he founded Messick Homecare, which grew to seven locations across Middle Tennessee. Then he became Regional VP of Operations for HouseCall Medical, where he managed $125 million in revenue and multiple locations in five states. Messick talks about how your business is your ministry platform. Laura Messick shares her story of how God led Trent and her to begin Portico, a pregnancy resource center in Murfreesboro, more than 35 years ago and how God is still at work there today. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Budget Blinds of Murfreesboro. RSVP at bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.

The Sweet Addiction (2246 Keeneland Commercial Blvd., Ste. B, Murfreesboro) will hold a ribbon-cutting event on Thursday, March 9, at 11 a.m. Under the slogan of “Baked Goods for a Good Cause,” The Sweet Addiction is dedicated to the employment of female survivors of human trafficking, addiction, domestic violence and incarceration. It provides career coaching and other life programs while providing participants who have been labeled as “unemployable” with meaningful work and a support network. It will soon have its baked goods available at Liberty’s Station. For more information, or to place an order for cupcakes, apple cinnamon rolls or fried pies, visit thesweetaddiction.com.

Learn how important it is to keep the river system clean at Trash Talk on Thursday, March 9 at 3 p.m. at The Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.). Talk about how trash affects wildlife in Tennessee as well as animals in the ocean. Discuss what things you can do to help limit pollution through hands-on play. There is no cost to join. For more information or to pre-register, call 615-217-3017 or email krendl@murfreesborotn.gov

First Community Mortgage Cares presents the Laugh In Comedy Night to benefit the Rutherford County Area Habitat for Humanity on Thursday, March 9, at 6 p.m. at Embassy Suites (1200 Conference Center Blvd.). Enjoy dinner, entertainment from comedian/ventriloquist Taylor Mason, swag bags and a silent auction. For more information, find Our Events at rchfh.org or email fcmcaresadmin@fcmpartners.com. For more on Mason, visit taylormason.com or find Taylor Mason Comedy on Facebook.

clue

Clue is set to open Friday, March 10, at The Center for the Arts. Based on the 1985 Paramount movie, itself inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. Set at a dinner party at a remote mansion, Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up. Denise Parton directs Clue, rated PG. Performance dates include 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, March 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25; and at 2 p.m. on Sundays, March 12, 19 and 26. The Center for the Arts is located at 110 W. College St., Murfreesboro. For tickets and more information, visit boroarts.org or call 615-904-ARTS (2787).

chord

The first Chord Meeting will be held on Monday, March 13, at Greenhouse Ministries (307 S. Academy St.) from 6:30–7:30 p.m. Chord is a collaborative initiative that encourages local groups that provide music in Rutherford County—music festivals, concerts and other live community performances or lessons—open to any individual or organization involved in the music industry. The group plans to offer support to all working to present live musical performances in Rutherford County. The mission is to build harmony and partnerships that will help the community reach its full musical potential. For more information, email thomchristy@gmail.com.

rutherford caBle march

Breakfast meetInG

Donna Yurdin of Credo Management

Consulting is the speaker for the Rutherford Cable March Breakfast Meeting on Tuesday, March 14. Yurdin has over 35 years of business experience in corporate leadership, coaching, leadership development and consulting. As a credentialed coach, she brings her years of leadership experience

specIal kIds race to her work with individuals as a thought partner in their learning process. She helps clients get unstuck, creates clarity about what is getting in the way of moving forward and exposes new perspectives while promoting self-confidence. The meeting will be held Tuesday, March 14, from 7:15–9 a.m. at The Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.). 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.

The Special Kids Race returns to Murfreesboro Medical Clinic (1272 Garrison Dr., Murfreesboro) the morning of Saturday, March 11. The 15K and 10K races will begin at 7 a.m. with the 5K start time following at 7:10, all courses traveling through the Stones River Battlefield before returning to MMC. A one-mile fun run will kick off at 8:45 a.m. The event always includes food, music, activities and giveaways for all participants following the race, with lots of sponsor booths set up in the MMC parking lot, all “for the kids.” Special Kids is a Murfreesboro-based Christian nonprofit providing therapy and nursing services to children with special needs. Packet pick-up for racers will be Friday, March 10, at the Redstone Federal Credit Union building on Medical Center Parkway. Register for the 2023 Special Kids Race on runsignup.com.

haIku hIke

Appreciate nature by making your very own Japanese poetic form called a haiku at The Wilderness Station within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, March 14, at 10 a.m. Enjoy a hike that’s just short of a mile to the river, where you will learn and craft your haikus while taking in the fresh air. In total, the trip will be just under two miles. Please dress for the weather. There is no cost to join. For more information or to pre-register, call 615-217-3017 or email krendl@murfreesborotn.gov.

oVerflow rIBBon cuttInG

Overflow Brews and Bakes will celebrate its official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 15 at 4 p.m. The restaurant originally opened in September at 115 N. Maple St. on the Square. The ceremony will be hosted by the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and will offer the opportunity to enjoy free samples and raffle drawings, as well as a wide selection of baked items from Overflow’s scratch bakery, coffee, boba tea and unique gifts and mugs. For more information, visit overflowb.com.

the connectIon at champy’s Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the March 2023 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16. 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 and energy. Champy’s is located at 1290 NW Broad St.

Get some outside time during a visit to Cannonsburgh Village. Kids 5 and under will enjoy a “green” scavenger hunt, playtime and a story from 10–11 a.m. on Thursday, March 16. Cost is $3. Reservations required by March 9. Reserve a spot by emailing mbnevills@murfreesborotn.gov or calling 615-801-2606.

The Sq Pop Shop’s Grand Opening weekend is March 17–19 with some of Murfreesboro’s favorite local vendors. Following the grand opening, the shop, located at 112 S. Maple St. on the Murfreesboro Public Square, will open every weekend on Fridays from 6–9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (until May when it will open at 8 a.m.) and Sundays from 2–6 p.m. The shop features vendors from all over Murfreesboro, Nashville, Franklin and surrounding areas, and is designed to help local vendors have a space to share and sell their passion with others. For more information, email anne@sqwheels.com.

march 17–19 southern equIne expo march 18

The Southern Equine Expo returns to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum (304 W. Thompson Ln.) on the weekend of March 17–19 for its 10th anniversary. With over 100 clinics and demonstrations, lectures and more than 90 vendors, the diversity and scope of the Southern Equine Expo attracts horse enthusiasts from across the nation. For more information and a full event schedule, visit southernequineexpo.com.

Bring the kids to create beautifully decorated St. Patrick’s Rice Krispie Treats on Saturday, March 18, from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (or until the last treat is sold) at Overflow Brews & Bakes (415 N. Maple St.). The cost is $5 for a Rice Krispie treat or $10 for 3 Rice Krispie treats to decorate; all supplies are provided. Enjoy the St. Patrick’s selfie station as well. Overflow offers premium coffee, baked goods, boba tea and more. For more information, visit or call 615-900-1679.

Beesley foundatIon’s paws & pearls

The 12th Annual Paws & Pearls benefits the Beesley Animal Foundation, which focuses on providing responsible pet care through community awareness, education and affordable health services for cats and dogs and reducing pet overpopulation. This is a fun Celtic-themed evening with Irish music, food and drinks, Patrick D’Arcy on the uilleann pipes, Southern Irish Dancers, an Irish feast from Goodness Gracious and Simply Pure Sweets and auctioneers Keith Strain, Vandy Vanmeter and Gaylon Perry. Paws & Pearls is Saturday, March 18, at 6 p.m. at Copper Ridge Event Venue (3597 Betty Ford Rd.). For more information, call 615-217-1030 or visit givebutter.com/c/pawsandpearls2023 or beesleyanimalfoundation.org

3rd saturday open studIo

Acorn Haven Studios presents its 3rd Saturday Open Studio on Saturday, March 18, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The day features local artists, classes and workshops, art demonstrations and more the third Saturday of each month. Acorn Haven Studios, the home studio of area artist Dawna Magliacano, opens its doors to visitors (8265 Lascassas Pk., Hwy 96) and hosts a variety of the area’s best artists sharing creative inspiration with the community. This month features eight types of art: sculpture, mono printing, hand-built pottery, weaving, wool fiber work, jewelry making and two types of painting. Visits are free and suitable for all ages. Look for the blue flags. For more information, find 3rd Saturday Open Studio on Facebook.

Enjoy a family-friendly evening of free music and outer space at Lipscomb University’s Collins Auditorium (6b University Park Dr., Nashville) on Saturday, March 18, from 7–8:30 p.m. The Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta presents its spring concert “Cosmos,” an evening filled with space-themed music including selections from Holst’s “The Planets” in collaboration with the Adventure Science Center. They will also be joined by National Trumpet Competition finalist Grace O’Connell for Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto in E-flat Major. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $10. Musicians of all ages are invited to take part in this ensemble to further their own musical

murfreesBoro chess lunch experiences and their passion of performing classical music. For more information, visit mtsinfonietta.com, call 864-706-3647 or email info@mtsinfonietta.com. march 18 & 21

Community members interested in the initiative of teaching others the game of chess, helping raise funds and interest for getting the game in the schools, sharing ideas on how chess can benefit others, involving their organization in promoting the game, or just desiring to gather with other chess enthusiasts to play and discuss chess, can come to a Murfreesboro Chess Lunch at Carmen’s Taqueria, 206 W. Northfield Blvd., Murfreesboro, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Wednesday, March 22. For more information, contact Rob Mitchell at rmitchell@rutherfordcountytn. gov or 615-426-7373.

BeGInner’s archery

The Wilderness Station within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) offers a beginner’s archery program on March 18 and 21, from 1–3:30 p.m. Go over the parts of the bow and technique, and then get the opportunity to shoot. Please note that this program requires a one-mile walk on the paved trail to the campground area. The cost to join is $10; ages 10 and up are welcome. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov

Panther Creek has partnered with Premiere 6 Theatre (810 NW Broad St.) for another Movie Night Takeover. Catch an early release of John Wick 4 at this private event and get two tallboys of Panther Creek Brews with ticket purchase. Tickets are available in the Panther Creek taproom (714 W. Main St.).

march 25 true Blue preVIew

MTSU rolls out the blue carpet for prospective students and their families for a True march 25 caffeIne & chrome

Blue Preview event on Saturday, March 25. Hundreds of prospective students from across the region come for a free application workshop. Anyone applying in the College of Education Building (Room 104) will have their application fee waived. This is a special day where high school and potential transfer students can enjoy the full campus experience and learn what it means to be True Blue. Participate in academic and departmental presentations, receive financial aid and scholarship information and choose from many different special interest sessions that are customized based on the prospective students’ needs. Preview events are free and start at 9 a.m., concluding mid-afternoon. The agenda includes True Blue Browsing with numerous departments on the Student Union’s first floor and in the second-floor ballroom, hearing a welcome from MTSU officials at 10 a.m. in the ballroom, taking campus tours (11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.) housing tours (11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.) and lunch from noon–2 p.m. Attend special 10:45 a.m. sessions with most of the university’s academic colleges. At 12:15 p.m. meet with the Honors College. To register in advance, visit mtsu.edu/rsvp. For more information on admissions call 615-898-2333.

Calling all car enthusiasts the last Saturday of every month: join Gateway Classic Cars for Caffeine & Chrome on Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m.–noon. This event is free and open to the public. Cruise in with your collectible car or daily driver and bring your appetite for pastries and coffee (while supplies last). All makes and models are welcome, and there is plenty of parking space (700 Swan Dr., Smyrna). This is a family-and-petfriendly event. For more information, find the Caffeine and Chrome event on Facebook.

Explore the joy of birding at The Wilderness Station within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Saturday, March 25, at 10 a.m. Go over the basics of birding and learn how to pack a bag for a birding trip, then test your new skills. Binoculars will be provided for those who need them. Please dress for the weather. Pre-registration is required. The cost to join is $3 and ages 10 and up are welcome. For more information, call 615-2173017 or email krendl@murfreesborotn.gov.

women In technoloGy

Rutherford County’s first Women in Technology Panel from the Murfreesboro Technology Council and Women in Technology of Tennessee will launch on Tuesday, March 28 at the Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.) from 3:30–5 p.m. Aimed at aspiring women of all ages who want to learn about some career paths and experiences from technology leaders in Tennessee, the panel will delve into their stories and how they grew their careers as well as address several key challenges in the industry. Learn about mentorship programs linking professionals with young minds to develop the leaders of tomorrow. Make reservations under Events at murfreesborotechnology.com.

All are welcome to attend. The event will be followed by a social at the Burger Republic at 5:30 p.m. For more information, email info@murfreeesborotechnology.com or call 615-545-2789.

Did you know that Tennessee is home to seven different species of woodpeckers?

Learn about these species and how to identify them at The Wilderness Station within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, March 28, at 10 a.m. Take a short hike to see how many different woodpeckers are nearby. Binoculars will be provided if needed. There is no cost to join. For more information or to pre-register, email krendl@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-217-3017.

rIVer exploratIon

Meet at the Stones River Overlook within Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Tuesday, March 28, at 1 p.m., for river exploration. Explore the river to catch and release crawfish, snails and other interesting macroinvertebrates. Discuss biodiversity and the importance of healthy waterways. Water shoes are recommended, as enclosed footwear is required for anyone getting in the water. There is no cost to join. For more information or to pre-register, email krendl@murfreesborotn. gov or call 615-217-3017.

enchanted nIGht hIke

Calling all wizards, witches and warlocks to Enchanted Night Hike at The Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Friday, March 31, from 6–8 p.m. This enchanted hike through Barfield, guided by staff, is a family event where all ages are welcome. Enjoy crafted butterbeer (non-alcoholic) by the campfire and get up-close looks at the resident owl ambassadors. Don’t forget to dress to impress the headmistress of magic. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. The cost to join is $5 per person or $15 per family. To register, call 615-217-3017 or email challwalker@murfreesborotn.gov.

free dIGItal lIteracy classes

This entry-level computer class is designed for new users who are interested in learning basic computer terminology such as the use of a keyboard, mouse, icons, folders and applications, internet usage and navigation, use of email and basic résumé creation, skills and online job search skills. Classes are held at Goodwill (2955 S. Church St.). A valid ID and an active Gmail account (career coaches can provide assistance) are required. For more information, find Career Solutions and then Education at giveit2goodwill.org, call 615-346-1818 or email murfreesborocs@givegw.org.

loads of loVe

The Junior League of Murfreesboro is kindly seeking donations of gift cards for Kroger, Walmart, Target and other retailers for its new member project, Loads of Love. Loads of Love will provide essential items to low-income individuals and families in the

mId tenn hot rodders cruIse-In area experiencing housing insecurity. JLM new members create 100 laundry baskets filled with supplies offering support, hope and love to those in need in the community. Baskets will be distributed on April 4 and 5 in partnership with Sandy Brewer’s Faith Project and Nourish Food Bank’s hotel delivery program for approximately 100 displaced families in Rutherford County. Additional opportunities to support JLM through sponsorship are available. For more information, email anhowell529@gmail.com or call 904-742-8900.

Hot rod and car enthusiasts of Middle Tennessee and beyond will gather from 4 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, and continuing each Saturday through October, at Steak 'n Shake Smyrna (951 Sgt. Asbury Hawn Way). Free and open to the public.

Join Connect Murfreesboro Mondays from 9–10 a.m. at BoomBozz Craft Pizza & Taphouse (2839 Medical Center Pkwy.) for a casual networking event designed to connect professionals, build relationships, drive referrals and help grow businesses. Please prepare a 60-second pitch to promote your business. The approximately 20 minutes at the end of each meeting is reserved for members to set up one-on-ones and socialize. For more information or directions, visit connectnashvillenetworking.com/events.

MTSU Honors College presents its Spring Lecture Series to help students grow in the area of critical thinking while hearing from faculty and outside experts. Life writing is a concept developed by Professor and Honors Associate Dean Philip Phillips taking place every Monday in March (except March 6) through Monday, April 3, at 3 p.m. in Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building (1737 Blue Raider Dr., Room 106). The lecture series is free and open to the public (limited seating). Life writing encompasses narrating a life and includes different ways of telling a story, from biographies to letters, memoirs, blogs, poetry, social media posts and more. Upcoming topics include The Songwriting Life on March 13, the Challenges of Writing Biography presented by Arleen Tuchman on March 27 and Beyond the Classroom Activity presented by Louis Kyriakoudes and Philip Phillips on April 3. mondays snake feedInGs

Learn about snake adaptations and how they swallow their food whole with a live feeding demonstration of the educational snakes at The Wilderness Station at Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.) on Mondays in March at 11:30 a.m. There is no cost and all ages are welcome. For more information, call 615-217-3017.

Tuesdays

Blues jam

Come alone or bring some friends to Heroes Den (2805 Old Fort Pkwy., Ste. O) for Tuesday Blues Jam from 6:30–9:30 p.m. Bring your instrument or vocals and join the band. Every song is a new experience. Free and open to the public. For more information find Heroes Den on Facebook.

Wednesdays 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 each week on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at the Rutherford County Veterans Community Center (439 Rice St.). All you need to bring is a good attitude. Each attendee gets about a minute to explain what they do and what they need, followed by a discussion question of the week. Networking for Awesome People encourages open discussion to help everyone grow. For more information, find a Networking for Awesome People group on Facebook.

Wednesdays

Boro 2 square runnInG Group

The Boro 2 Square running group meets at Mayday Brewery (521 Old Salem Rd.) every Wednesday at 6 p.m. The group welcomes runners of all paces looking to get out to run and socialize with other runners. Normal run distances are between 3 and 5 miles. Participants are welcome to hang out and socialize following the run. For more information, visit facebook.com/boro2square.

Thursdays hIke wIth a naturalIst

Come out to the Wilderness Station (401 Volunteer Rd.) for a weekly hike at Barfield Crescent Park on Thursdays at 2 p.m. Along your hike, stop and talk about things you see along the way. Each week you’ll hike different trails at Barfield so you can get more familiar with the whole park. There is no cost to join; all ages are welcome. For more information, call 615-217-3017 or email lrosser@murfreesborotn.gov

Thursdays mad cow trek cluB

The Mad Cow Trek Club running group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Panther Creek Brews (714 W. Main St.). The group embarks on a route of 4–8 miles and welcomes runners of all paces and abilities. Affiliated with the Mad Cow Running Company in McMinnville, the Trek Club hosts races and free get-togethers to share its love of running with the community. Stay after each run for food and drinks.

Fridays murfreesBoro communIty chess

Murfreesboro Community Chess meets at the Murfreesboro Barnes & Noble (within The Avenue, 2615 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.