PuLSEziLLA iS COMiNg bACk AT yA once again, from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America—the undisputed greatest ice hockey nation in the world!
That’s right, both the U.S. men’s and women’s teams took Olympic gold medals in the 2026 Winter Games.
Incredible team wins, on both sides. American hockey fans will be telling their grandchildren about the legend of Toothless Jack putting the biscuit in the basket in overtime against Canada.
The U.S.A. got the gold. Everyone else can enjoy their commemorative Olympic consolation plushie toy. See you in 2030, Canada!
18
short & easy MI ddle tennessee h I kes 17 easy-to-moderate adventures, all within a reasonable drive from Murfreesboro, that nearly everyone can enjoy
Muskrats are one of the most common wildlife sightings at Murfree Spring.
26
specIal kIds race
Thousands will gather on March 14 for 15th annual 5K, 10K and 15K runs supporting Special Kids.
6 Events calendar
St. Patrick’s Tea Party, Special Kids Race, Oreo Festival, WOC Spring Festival, Underwater Egg Hunt, Elvis Has Left the Building and more!
14 Sounds concerts
MusIc notes Jordan McCullough on current season of American Idol
Turntable Medic s new vinyl album release
24 Living nature news
Attracting wild birds
Mr. MurfreesBoro Cemetery School
28 Food restaurant
Frida’s Cafe
30 News
BusIness Buzz
Cavender’s Boot City, MilkShake Factory, Bibles and Coffee, Waldo’s, K&G Africa,
Seven Brew, Che Taqueria and more!
33 Opinion Money Matters
Early retirement mistakes to avoid free your chIldren
Student character and data tracking constItutIon study
Constitutional carry lIVe . . . well! Who are we becoming?
The Pulse continues printing and distributing this here real-deal, paper-and-ink, hard-copy, hyperlocal informational outlet, for you, always trying to give you just the right amount of whelm—not overwhelming, not underwhelming, just a satisfactory and appropriate quantity of whelm.
To all of the loyal supporters, all of the sponsors who bankroll this thing, it remains quite interesting to be a part of all of your lives and businesses and a piece of your local promotional efforts for your furniture store, karate studio, restaurant, funeral home, thrift store, attraction, political campaign, soap company, tax prep service and doughnut shop.
Thank you for utilizing the Pulse to help share your visions, brands, products and services with local folks.
Support small! The independents must be creative and partner with one another in order to achieve our goals as we navigate these various powerful systems—governmental, banking, tech, healthcare, education, religious and otherwise—that may not have exactly been created with our benefit in mind.
During his 2024 campaign, Trump promoted his “peace president” platform, suggesting that his “America first” approach would keep our country from entering into new wars; that he would “stop wars,” not start new ones.
But nope. Welcome to U.S.A. vs. Iran, you know, as in bombs and assassinating dictators, not ice hockey.
America’s never-ending war continues! For a while, I thought Trump may be different from the long line of bombdropping presidents who interfere in just about every nation on earth and involve our country in public and secret war-like activities (without any sort of “declaration of war” . . . ).
Take a hike. Really, get out and Explore Tennessee!
This edition of the Pulse has a wide selection of hiking trails to try out, if you need some pointers on where to begin. Please use caution. Don’t pick up rattlesnakes, and always supervise your children near cliffs. Please, remember these things and you should have a lovely time in the forest.
Otherwise, this past month I have been exploring the flavors of Frida’s, experiencing the adrenaline of bullet chess, troubleshooting technical difficulties, taking in an MTSU basketball game, enjoying some homemade bread and appreciating hot water. We are blessed.
As expected, the Seahawks were a bit much for the Patriots to handle in the Super Bowl, as we watched the battle of third-overall draft selections Drake and Darnold, both of whom were the first quarterbacks from their respective draft classes—QB-loaded draft classes that also included Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Baker Mayfield, Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Bo Nix and others—to make the Super Bowl. Enjoy today.
Peace, Bracken Mayo
Publisher/Editor in Chief
Bridge at Fall Creek Falls; Dogwood Bloom at Flat Rock
events calendar March 2026 by a ndrea st O c K ard
March 5 & 19
tales to taIls
Tales to Tails is 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. In this pawsome program, participants are invited to come to the library to read aloud to the friendly therapy dogs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Ten-minute slots are available on Thursdays, March 5 and 19, starting at 3 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information, email smyrnays@rclstn.org or call 615-459-4884.
March 5 & 19
after school art cluB
Come out to the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) on Thursdays March 5 and 19, from 4:30–6 p.m. to create art to take home. In SOAC’s Art Club, participants will develop art skills, learn about art history and have fun. All supplies will be provided. The cost to participate is $3 for members and $5 for non-members per class. Ages 7–17 years are welcome; anyone under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is suggested through the Community Pass, but walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email sam.kaviyakone@townofsmyrna.org.
March 6–7
coMMunIty foundatIon rutherford rodeo
The Community Foundation of Rutherford County presents the 4th Annual CFRC Rodeo on Friday and Saturday, March 6 and 7, featuring barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping, chuck wagon racing, bareback bronco riding, family fun, food trucks, vendors, livestock and more. For more information, visit cfrutherford.org/cfrc-rodeo and find Community Foundation of Rutherford County on Facebook.
March 6
leGo Jr. cluB at the tec
Get creative with bricks at the LEGO Jr. Club at the Technology Engagement Center (306 Minerva Dr.) on Friday, March 6, from 3–5 p.m. This monthly club offers builders a fun-filled afternoon of imagina-
March 6–8
elVIs has left the BuIldInG Murfreesboro Little Theatre presents Elvis Has Left the Building by V. Cate and Duke Ernsberger on Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on March 8 at 2 p.m. The nostalgic slapstick comedy unfolds in the office of Elvis Presley’s manager, the Colonel, as chaos erupts when Elvis mysteriously goes missing just days before Christmas. Packed with quirky characters, quick wit and outrageous schemes, the production celebrates the cultural frenzy surrounding the world’s most iconic performer. Performances will be held in Maney Hall at Oaklands Mansion, (901 N. Maney Ave.). Tickets are available at mltarts.com. Murfreesboro Little Theatre, founded in 1962, is the area’s oldest continuing community theater and continues its mission of entertaining and engaging the community through live performance.
tion, construction and building challenges designed to let kids showcase their skills. This session, held the first Friday of each month, is geared toward builders ages 5–8. This program is free and open to the public. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
March 7
a nIGht at the MuseuM
Rediscover your sense of wonder while sampling wines, spirits and brews on Saturday, March 7 at Discovery Center at Murfree Spring (502 SE Broad St.) from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at A Night at the Museum: Featuring Wine, Whiskey & Ale. Explore your inner child with playful, elevated fun, including a sophisticated scavenger hunt, silent disco and interactive surprises. The event supports the museum’s mission to ensure all children in the community have access to joyful, safe and inspiring play. Attendees must be 21 and up. Volunteers are needed to assist in serv-
ing samples and manning vendor tables. There will be local food trucks onsite. For more information, call 615-890-2300 or visit explorethedc.org.
March 7
storyBook Breakfast
United Way of South Central Tennessee hosts the seventh annual Storybook Breakfast on Saturday, March 7, at Overall Creek Elementary School (429 Otter Tr.). Families may attend one of three sessions scheduled for 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. The event consists of breakfast, crafts, photo opportunities and story time, along with appearances by beloved children’s book characters including Pete the Cat, Llama Llama, Bluey and Bingo and more. The Storybook Breakfast supports United Way’s efforts as a local sustaining partner for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, providing books each month to nearly 17,000 children from birth to age 5 in Rutherford and Cannon counties. Although families
receive the books at no cost, United Way funds the books and mailing expenses locally. Storybook Breakfast tickets are $15 per person, with a $60 household maximum, and may be purchased at yourlocaluw.org/storybook
March 7
Monthly park hIke
Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center on the first Saturday of the month and hike a different greenway or nature trail each time. This month the hike is at Sharp Springs Park. Meet at the Sage Hill Shelter (311 Jefferson Pk.) on Saturday, March 7, at 10 a.m. There will be snacks available. The walk will be about 1.5 miles total with a trail surface that is partially paved greenway and partially packed dirt, which may not be suitable for strollers. This is a weather-dependent program. There is no cost to participate. All ages are welcome; anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is suggested through the Community Pass Email mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org for more information.
March 7 & 21
3d prInt orIentatIon
Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) offers an introductory 3D print orientation on Saturdays March 7 and 21, from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Class size is limited to four patrons per class; ages 13 and up are preferred. For more information, email smyrna3dprint@rclstn.org.
March 10
tennessee
traIls MeetInG
The Tennessee Trails Association’s monthly meeting of the Murfreesboro Chapter is set for Tuesday, March 10, at 7 p.m. Enjoy a night sky viewing led by a state park ranger, Shauna Bridgers at Oakwood Trail, which is located at 243-201 Hemlock Dr., two miles from Barfield Wilderness Station. Please bring a camp chair and red lights only, as white lights will interfere with night vision. If it is too cloudy, it will be converted into an owl prowl and Ranger Bridgers will call in owls. There is not a restroom at Oakwood. There is a limit of 15 people, so registration is required; call
CONTiNuEd ON PAgE 7
931-580-0862 to register. Non-members are welcome. For more information, visit tennesseetrails.org
March 10 and 24
Boro Books and Brews
Books and Brews meets Tuesdays, March 10 and 24, at 7 p.m. at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). For more information, email rachgauger@ gmail.com, visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Co. or the Boro Books and Brews group on Facebook.
March 12 & 26
after school archery
Try something new or sharpen your existing archery skills after school on Thursdays March 12 and 26 at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pwky. E.) from 4:30–6 p.m. Programs are always led by USA Archery-certified instructors or coaches. The cost to join is $3 for members or $5 for non-members per class. Ages 8 and older are welcome (no exceptions). Registration is suggested through the Community Pass; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org
March 13–22
anIMal farM at MIlls-pate arts center
Bravo Boro marks its fifth anniversary with its largest production to date, Animal Farm, opening Friday, March 13, and running through March 22 at Mills-Pate Arts Center (7120 Old Nashville Hwy.). The George Orwell adaptation features nearly 30 cast and crew members—the company’s biggest ensemble yet—following record audition turnout this season. Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Find tickets and additional information at bravoboro.theater
March 13 & 27
paInt party
Join Pampered Artist for a fun event catered specifically for professional people looking to network and unwind. Enjoy wine as you unleash your creativity at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Fridays, March 13 and 27, at 7 p.m. In this laid-back atmosphere, you’ll have the chance to not only create beautiful artwork but also connect with other like-minded women in a supportive and encouraging environment. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for young professional singles wanting to have
March 19
tennessee teMpo Match
The Tennessee Tempo Football Club, Murfreesboro’s professional soccer team competing in the United Premier Soccer League, will take on the Chattanooga Red Wolves in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup on Thursday, March 19, at Richard Siegel Soccer Stadium (515 Cherry Ln.) at 7 p.m. For more information on the Tennessee Tempo, email gift@tennesseetempofc.com, call 855-688-7277 or visit tennesseetempofc.com.
a good time while expanding their network. For more information, find Middle Ground Brewing Co. on Facebook.
March 13 &
27
phone photoGraphy 101
Unlock the full potential of your smartphone to capture stunning photographs through expert guidance on camera settings, composition techniques, and editing strategies at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). Become a master photographer at the library for Phone Photography 101 on Fridays March 13 and 27, from 2–3 p.m. All ages are welcome; any child under the age of 13 must have a parent present and some knowledge of smartphones. For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library
March 14
specIal kIds race
The 15th Annual Special Kids Race is set for Saturday, March 14. The community event welcomes everyone, seasoned runners, casual joggers, leisurely walkers or a family looking to join in together. The course begins at the Murfreesboro Medical Center (1272 Garrison Dr.), guiding participants through a scenic flat route that features the historic Stones River Battlefield and the beautiful Gateway Island. In addition to the race, there will be a Family Fun Zone, refreshments and activities for all ages. Volunteering, sponsoring and donating without participating
for saxophone and orchestra by Henri Tomasi. Admission is free and open to the public. For more on the Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta, visit mtsinfonietta.com
March 15
classIc car cruIse-In
Shine ‘er up and drive ‘er in at the Cedar Glade Classic Car Cruise-In (906 Ridgely Rd.) on Sunday, March 15. Every car that comes to show gets $3 off their first CGB pint. Visit cedargladebrews.com or find the Classic Car Cruise-In event on Facebook for more information.
March 16
leGo Block party
are also an option. For more information, visit specialkidsrace.com
March 14
st. patrIck’s tea party
OFLOW (115 N. Maple St.) will host its St. Patrick’s high tea party on Saturday, March 14, with seatings at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The limited-set menu will feature nine different pastries and savories as well as fresh-brewed loose leaf tea, coffee and Taiwanese Bubble Tea. The cost is $35 per person or $25 for children between 3–8 years old, plus tax. OFLOW asks that you dress for a high tea party (semi-formal or smart casual). There will be a prize for the best-dressed. Seating is limited. A nonrefundable $10 per-person fee is required to secure your spot. Visit overflowb.com/events or call 615-9001676 for more information.
March 15 free coMMunIty concert
Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta will present its next free community concert on Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m. in Hinton Hall at the MTSU School of Music (1439 Faulkinberry Dr.). The program features Beethoven’s legendary Symphony No. 5 alongside performances by the three winners of the 2026 Concerto Competition, Mov. I of Concerto No. 2 for piano and orchestra by Camille Saint-Saëns, Mov. I of Sinfonia Concertante for cello and orchestra by Sergei Prokofiev, and Ballade
The LEGO Block Party is a fun and engaging after-school program at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) on Monday, March 16, from 3:15–3:45 p.m. where imagination knows no bounds. Designed for kids of all ages, this bi-weekly program invites children to come together and build amazing creations using the collection of LEGO bricks. Bring your enthusiasm and creativity; no registration is required (programs close 10 minutes after start time). For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library
March 17
MusIc and MoVeMent
Move to the music and hear stories with a special guest presenter at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). on Tuesday, March 17, from 10–11 a.m. There is no cost to attend and all ages are welcome. Please wear green to help celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library
March 18
wrIter’s Group
Come out to Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) for a writing workshop open to ages 16 and up on Wednesday, March 18, from 6:30–7:30 p.m. Plan to bring a notebook, a writing utensil and all of your imagination and creativity. Ages 16 and up are welcome. Learn more at rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library.
March 19
the connectIon
Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.) will host the March 2026 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. 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. Networking begins at 5 p.m. with introductions at 6 p.m.
March 20
shrek-theMed trIVIa
Come out to Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) for Shrek-themed trivia on Friday, March 20, at 7 p.m. Visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook for more information.
March 20–21
QuIlts In the Boro
Quilts in the Boro 2026 is coming up Friday, March 20, from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at Lane Agri-Park Community Center (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). The day features over 100 quilts—modern, art, traditional and antique—hands-on activities, unique vendors, Quilts of Valor, bed turning and refreshments. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter, a casual admirer, or just looking for a fun outing, this show has something for everyone, For more information, visit quiltingbees.org/quilt-show or find Quilts in the Boro on Facebook.
March 21
tennessee tree day
Tennessee Tree Day returns Saturday, March 21, with tree pickup sites in all 95 counties. Hosted by the Tennessee Environmental Council in partnership with the Tennessee Division of Forestry and local nurseries, the annual initiative distributes bare-root native tree seedlings to residents for planting. Species available this year include bald cypress, eastern redbud, pecan, persimmon, river birch and tulip poplar. Trees are available at low cost, with scholarships offered for those needing assistance. Participants must register in advance at tectn.org/tennesseetreeday. Lane Agri Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.), Oaklands Park (427 Roberts St.) and First United Methodist Church, (265 W. Thompson Ln.) will serve as local pickup locations.
March 21
Intro to tInkercad
Learn how to design your own 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; any
library patrons under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit smyrna3dprint@rclstn.org
March 21
faIth In actIon health faIr
The First Baptist Church of Murfreesboro is partnering with the Patterson Park Community Center to present FAITH in ACTION Health Fair on Saturday, March 21, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.). The health fair will provide valuable health resources, services and information for the families of the Murfreesboro community. Vendors can sign up. For additional details or to register as a vendor, call 615-6314475 or email health@fbcmurfreesboro.org.
March 21
leGo Jr. cluB
Bring your creativity and building skills to LEGO Jr. Club at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) on Saturday, March 21, from 10–11 a.m. The youth LEGO club meets monthly, the third Saturday of each month, to build and explore imaginative designs with LEGOs, offering a fun and engaging space for kids and families to connect and create together. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
March 25
Jeep crew Meetup
The Rutherford County Jeep Crew has a meetup scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). All Jeepers are welcome. Visit middlegroundbrew.com or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook for more information.
March 27
4th frIday fun*workInG
Turn your Friday into an opportunity for connection and inspiration at Fun*Working, held the 4th Friday of the month (March 27) beginning at 5 p.m. Meet at the Spread the Positive Studio (105 N. Maple St. Suite 1) on Friday nights for a unique networking experience featuring a live podcast. Connect with business professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community champions as organizers spotlight good things happening. Stay tuned for happy hour meetups before and maybe even an after party. Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for building a better community.
March 28
dance It out
Dance It Out is a free, high-energy well-
ness event for women ages 18 and up, on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.). The event features multiple dance instructors, a live DJ, local vendors, and community resource partners, including Chin Up, Girl, a Murfreesboro-based nonprofit serving women navigating recovery, reentry, and transitional life seasons. There is no cost to join. Guided dance sessions are led by volunteer instructors, focused on fun, movement and self-expression. Email community@chinupgirl.org or visit chinupgirl.org for more information.
March 28
all aGes crafternoon
Tap into your creativity at the Saturday Crafternoon program for Take your Child to the Library Day on Saturday, March 28, from 1–2 p.m. at the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). The event is hosted by youth Services, but all ages are welcome to participate. Supplies are provided. For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library.
March 28
noVel nerds
If you’re an avid reader, read across multiple genres and love the library, you may be a Novel Nerd. Ages 18 and up are welcome to join Novel Nerds on Saturday, March 28, from 12–1 p.m. at the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). For more info, email smyref@rclstn.org.
March 28
oreo festIVal
Get ready for a full day packed with Oreoinspired treats, desserts, drinks and family fun at the 2nd Annual Oreo Festival on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the MTSU TN Livestock Center (1720 Greenland Dr.). The event consists of Oreo dessert vendors and food trucks, games and activities for the whole family and sweet surprises around every corner. Mark your calendars, grab your crew and bring your sweet tooth. Vendor applications are now open. There is free parking and free admission. For more information, find the 2nd Annual Oreo Festival event on Facebook.
March 28
easter tea party
OFLOW (115 N. Maple St.) will host its Easter high tea party on Saturday, March 28, with seatings at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The menu will feature nine different pastries and savories as well as fresh-brewed loose leaf tea, coffee and Taiwanese Bubble Tea. The cost is $35 per person or $25 for
children between 3–8 years old, plus tax. Dress for a high tea party (semi-formal or smart casual). There will be a prize for the best-dressed. A nonrefundable $10 perperson fee is required to secure a spot. For more information, call 615-900-1676 or visit overflowb.com/events.
March 28–april 11 woc sprInG festIVal
The World Outreach Spring Festival kicks off Saturday, March 28, and continues through Saturday, April 11, with special guest musical artists Pat Barrett and Jamie MacDonald, along with biblical messages from Pastor Allen Jackson. Saturday night services take place in the outdoor sanctuary on the east side of the building, with a live feed into Three Crosses Sanctuary if you prefer to be indoors. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. with food trucks and children’s activities. Service starts at 6 p.m. with outdoor water baptisms and an outdoor worship concert after service. Each guest artist will also lead worship indoors in Three Crosses Sanctuary on Sunday at the 9:30 a.m. service. March 28 (6 p.m.) and March 29 (9:30 a.m.) features Pat Barrett, and April 11 (6 p.m.) and April 12 (9:30 a.m.) features Jamie MacDonald. For more information, visit wochurch.org/spring
March 28
underwater eGG hunt
Patterson Park Community Center (521 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) will host its annual Underwater Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28, beginning at 9 a.m. Children ages 3–10 can see how many eggs they can collect in the pool, then trade them out for a goodie bag. A 9 a.m. session is specifically for ages 4 and under and children who have sensory sensitivities. The play features will not be on to limit noise during this time. Two additional sessions will follow, at 10 and 11 a.m. Cost is $5 per person. For more information, call 615-895-5040.
March 29
take a walk In the park
Enjoy the warming spring weather and celebrate National Take a Walk in the Park Day by walking Barfield Crescent Park’s paved Marshall Knob Trail (697 Veterans Pkwy.) on Saturday, March 29, from sunrise to sunset. Along the trail will be a self-guided tour of Barfield Crescent Park’s history and interesting facts about the wildlife at this park.
March 30
try archery
CONTiNuEd FrOM PAgE 8
Join USA Archery Certified Instructors for an afternoon of themed games on a regulation outdoor range at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) on Monday, March 30, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Sharpen your skills and learn new ones. This class will be geared towards beginners, but participants of all skill levels are welcome. All standard equipment will be provided. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a weather-dependent program. Registration is suggested through the Community Pass. For more information, email mike.kraft@townofsmyrna.org.
March 30
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 supplies. This event meets Monday, March 30, in the Conference Room from 4–5 p.m.
april 7
MIdtn MaGIc Group
Join the MidTN Magic Group on Tuesdays
March 3 and April 7 from 6:30–8 p.m. in the second-floor conference room at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.).
This group, part of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, meets monthly (the first Tuesday of each month) to promote, advance and present entertaining magic while preserving the heritage of the craft. Anyone interested in the magical arts is welcome to attend this free meeting. For more information on Rutherford County Library events, visit rclstn.org/event
Mondays
Monday nIGht hIstory
The Patriot Institute presents free weekly Monday Night History classes at 6:30 p.m. at Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.). The group will continue to explore Civil War campaigns in March. Instructor Galen Walker formed The Patriot Institute in 2015 and has taught Monday Night History at various locations ever since. For more information, visit thepatriotinstitute.org or find The Patriot Institute on Facebook.
Mondays & Tuesdays
sIlly sonG and dance
Join Ms. Nicole for Silly Song and Dance Mondays and Tuesdays (March 3, 9 and 10, 17, and 23 and 24) at 10 a.m.
at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.). 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, all ages are welcome. Programs will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. For more information, visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library or call 615-459-4884.
Tuesdays
run to aI, not froM It
This March, Be Brilliant in the Basics will present a four-week AI training series— Run to AI, Not From It. Held on Tuesdays, March 10–31 at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.), the AI empowerment experience will help those curious about AI to embrace the technology and learn its tricks. Explore cool ideas, meet likeminded folks, and dive into the exciting world of artificial intelligence. Kelvin Goss, the founder of Be Brilliant in the Basics, will host. Session times are March 10 at 11 a.m., March 17 at 3 p.m., March 24 at 2 p.m. and March 31 at 10 a.m. Bring your own device. Register for Run to AI, Not From It by Be Brilliant in the Basics LLC on Eventbrite, or contact Kelvin Goss for more information at 281-451-2544.
Tuesdays after school clIMBInG
Join SOAC staff on Tuesdays after school from 4–6 p.m. to climb on the indoor rock wall and challenge yourself Tuesdays in March at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.). Climbers must weigh at least 50 pounds and wear closed-toed shoes and clothing appropriate for climbing. The cost to join is $2. All ages are welcome; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org or call 615-459-9710.
Tuesdays
sIGht word snack attack
Sight Word Snack Attack, a child-focused but all-ages program that includes a snack, water, and a round of Sight Word Bingo, is held at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) on Tuesdays at 3:15 p.m. Afterward participants can choose from a variety of fun sight-word games to play. Sight words are common words that kids recognize instantly without sounding them out. This is geared toward preschool through 3rd grade; adult participation is highly recommended. All ages are welcome. For more information,
visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library or call 615-459-4884.
Wednesdays
wrIters Group
The Murfreesboro Writers Group gathers each Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the second floor meeting room at Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.). Writers of all interests and experience levels are welcome to join this regular critique and writing meetup to share work, offer feedback and grow their craft together. Styles may include science fiction, poetry, alternate reality, memoir, fantasy, mystery, literary fiction and others. For more information, visit rclstn.org/event.
Wednesdays
wIld wednesday
Discover something wild about the natural world with the SOAC staff on Wednesdays in March from 4:30–5:30 p.m. Meet a SOAC animal or enjoy a nature-based activity each Wednesday at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.). Find Smyrna Outdoor Adventure center on Facebook and Instagram. There is no cost to join. All ages are welcome; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, call 615-459-9710 or email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org
Wednesdays
lIne dancInG
Krisdale Hoggatt presents line dancing lessons every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at Strike and Spare (1720 Old Fort Parkway), offering a fun and social way to learn popular line dances in a casual setting. Open to all experience levels, the weekly event invites participants to dance, meet new people and enjoy an energetic night out.
Wednesdays
all aGes story tIMe
Come out to the Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) for All Ages Story Time from 10–11 a.m. Read stories, sing songs and play fun games to enhance early literacy. Programs will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. Visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library for more information.
Thursdays
after school art cluB
Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 4:30–6 p.m. on Thursdays to create some art to take home. In SOAC’s Art Club, participants will develop art skills, learn about art history and have fun. All supplies
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, but there should be plenty of supplies on hand.
are provided. The cost to participate is $3 for members and $5 for non-members per class. Ages 7–17 years are welcome; anyone under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is suggested through Community Pass; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email sam.kaviyakone@townofsmyrna.org
Thursdays
early learners
Join SOAC staff Thursdays in March (March 5, 19 and 26) for a different themed lesson geared toward your young ones to a classroom setting at Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 10–11 a.m. or 1–2 p.m. The Early Learners program is developmentally and age-appropriate. Each lesson may involve STEAM investigations, song and motion, story time and/or exhibit-free play. The cost to join is $2; ages 2–6 years old are welcome. Registration is required through the Community Pass. For more information, call 615-459-9710 or email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org
Thursdays
BaBy tIMe
Come out for Baby Time at Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) on Thursdays from 10–11 a.m. Baby Time is a story time 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 will close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start
goods, meats, baked goods and other farm-fresh items. This new addition ensures that residents can continue to enjoy high-quality, locally sourced foods year-round while supporting local farmers and producers. For more information, email rcfm@rutherfordcountytn.gov or call 615-898-7710.
saTurdays
sInGo
Check out SINGO every Saturday night at 7 p.m. hosted by BrainBlast Trivia at Nacho’s Murfreesboro (2962 S. Rutherford Blvd.). SINGO is the musical BINGO game that will have everyone dancing in their seats; no singing is required. It is family friendly, free to play, and there are prizes every time. For more information, find BrainBlast Trivia on Facebook or visit brainblasttrivia.com
saTurdays
coffee & conVersatIon
time. For more information, visit rclstn. org/venue/smyrna-public-library.
Thursdays
paJaMa story tIMe
Come out to Smyrna Public Library (400 Enon Springs Rd. W.) for Pajama Story Time Tuesdays from 6–6:30 p.m. Children are encouraged to come dressed in cozy pajamas and bring a stuffed animal friend to listen to stories, sing songs and have fun. Programs close to arriving participants 10 minutes after start time. All ages are welcome. Visit rclstn.org/venue/smyrna-public-library for more information.
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. Build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support other’s professional growth. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.
Fridays
farMers Market
The Rutherford County Farmers Market will be open Fridays only from 8 a.m.–noon at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.). The market features a variety of local vendors providing seasonal produce, herbs, mushrooms, canned
The Rutherford County Historical Society aims to be a community resource for those researching their family, property or perhaps just old fun facts. The Historical Society hosts Coffee & Conversation each Saturday morning from 9 a.m.–noon at the Ransom School House Museum (717 N. Academy St.). This is a very informal, fun 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
ongoing
f3 workouts
F3—fitness, fellowship and faith—holds free weekly, outdoor, peer-led workouts for men. The sessions welcome all men and always end with a “circle of trust,” emphasizing the group’s commitment to faith. 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 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. Learn more at f3murfreesboro.com.
concerts
Live Music in M idd L e tennessee
Wed, 3/4
Hig H Society
Jam with Mickey
Hilton g arden i nn Smyrna
Jeff Lysyczyn
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Eastern Boundary Quintet
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Sharon & Dave
Thurs , 3/5
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Pepper Brooks
Hig H Society
Cary & Sherrie Lynn
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Jazz Ensemble II
Fri, 3/6
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Buckshot Ridge; Tony Hartman
B U rger Bar
Delyn Christian
cH am Py’S cH icken (Smyrna)
Cooter River Band
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Pretty Grimm
Heroe S d en
No Escape (Journey
tribute); Raymond Martin
Hig H Society
Southbound Crows
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s aT, 3/7
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Douglas Riley Band
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Vintage Voltage
Heroe S d en
The Fog Band
Hig H Society
Rockin Country
m iddle g ro U nd Bre W ing c o.
The Lilliston Effect
mU r F ree SB oro m oo S e l odge
Lisa Law & the Fabulous 3
Po P’S Bar & g rill
Sharon & Dave
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Shane Douglas
tenne SS ee m iller c oli S e U m
Roland Justice (at the CFRC Rodeo)
s un, 3/8
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Crosstown
Ho P S P ring S Da Jam Band
Mon, 3/9
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
David Brookings
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’S Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 3/10
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Lauren Freebird
Hig H Society
Shane Douglas
Wed, 3/11
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Kaleb Scherer
Hig H Society
Jam with Mickey Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Sharon & Dave
Thurs, 3/12
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Dustin Martin
Hig H Society
The Neighbors
Fri, 3/13
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Silent Ruckus; Tony Castellanos
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Southbound Crows
Heroe S d en
Cooter River Band
Hig H Society
Jack Finley Band
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Shane and the Money Makers
s aT, 3/14
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
The Neighbors
cH am Py’S cH icken
Jeff Lysyczyn
d e Wayne’S Bar and g rill
Cooter River Band
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
JILLfm
Heroe S d en
Roland Justice; School of Rock
Hig H Society
Zone Status
m iddle g ro U nd Bre W ing c o.
Lisa Law and The Jake
Leg Stompers
Po P’S Bar & g rill
Sharon & Dave
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Tony and the Attitude
s un, 3/15
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Carla Anderson Trio with Jasco
Ho P S P ring S
Da Jam Band
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Middle TN Sinfonietta
Mon, 3/16
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Will Sarver
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’S Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
The Galan Trio
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 3/17
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
The Powdered Paddies
Hig H Society
Shane Douglas
m iddle g ro U nd Bre W ing c o.
Muddy Boots
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Ethan Bullock
Wed, 3/18
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Clint Draper
Hig H Society
Jam with Mickey
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Samuel Campbell
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Sharon & Dave
Thurs, 3/19
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Aether Slade
Heroe S d en
Phil Valdez
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Staci Spring
Fri, 3/20
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Dueling Pianos
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Zone Status
Heroe S d en
Casey Gerhardt;
Cary and Sherrie Lynn
Hig H Society
Eden Storm
m emorie S Bar & g rill
The Bar Tabs
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Savannah Bennett
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Shane and the Money
Makers
s aT, 3/21
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
The Bar Tabs
c armen’S taq U eria
Jeff Lysyczyn
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Graham Anthem Band
Heroe S d en
The Caron Band
Hig H Society
The Entertainment
m iddle g ro U nd Bre W ing c o.
Brad Frazier
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
High School Honor
Clarinet and Flute Day; Chinese Music Event with yazhi Guo, MTSU Jazz Faculty, MTSU Chinese Music Ensemble and the Zheng Ensemble
Po P’S Bar & g rill
Sharon & Dave
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
DJ Papi Fuentes
s un, 3/22
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Jeff Ricketts
Ho P S P ring S
Da Jam Band
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Taylor Van Rycheghem; Benjamin Anderson; Naylor Competition Finals
Mon, 3/23
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Ciera Makenzie
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Hank’S Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Henry Wright; Justin Averill
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 3/24
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Christie Huff
Hig H Society
Shane Douglas
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
MTSU Steel Drum Band
Wed, 3/25
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Griffin Williams
Hig H Society
Jam with Mickey
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Sam Brooke; Charlie Pettyjohn
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Sharon & Dave
Thurs, 3/26
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Carter Elliott
Hig H Society
Zone Status
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Cecelia Lovelace
Fri, 3/27
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Jesse Morgan Band;
Tony Castellanos
B U rger Bar
Jeff Lysyczyn
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
Memory Train
Hank’S Honky tonk
Jack Finley Band
Heroe S d en
Brad Frazier; Piano Request Night
Hig H Society
Midnight Highway; Copper & Lead; Revolution
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Spencer Goad; Paul West
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Shane and the Money
Makers
Wood SV iking Bar B er SH o P
Jeff Lysyczyn
s aT, 3/28
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Southbound Crows
Ha PPy’S S P ort S l o U nge
66 Strikes
Heroe S d en
Jay Martin; Echoes of Pink Floyd
Hig H Society
Cooter River Band
m iddle g ro U nd Bre W ing c o.
Vagabond Train
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Illinois Jacquet Jazz Festival
Po P’S Bar & g rill
Sharon & Dave
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
I-65 Band
s un, 3/29
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Noble Rayne
Ho P S P ring S
Da Jam Band
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Phi Mu Alpha concert; Erin Seifert; Abigail Miller; Mitchell Elmore
Mon , 3/30
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Mark Henes
Hank’S Honky tonk
Open Mic Night
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Arunesh Nadgir (piano)
Smyrna VFW Po St 8422
Randy and Friends
Tues, 3/31
Boro Bo U r B on & Bre WS
Mike Palmer Duo
Hig H Society
Shane Douglas
Wed, 4/1
mt SU Wrig Ht mUS ic B U ilding
Percussion Ensemble
CASA PRIMOS
211 W. MAIN ST. INSIDE HIGH SOCIETY
Authentic Mexican Restaurant on the Murfreesboro Public Square
OPEN AT 11 A.M. 7 DAYS A WEEK
Full Mexican Restaurant
Full Bar / Karaoke Nightly
Serving Handmade Tortillas
Fish Tacos / Carnitas / Lengua
Pastor / Homemade Tamales
Middle Tennessee’s Jordan McCullough on Current Season of American Idol
JOrdAN McCuLLOugh’S MuSiCAL journey has taken him from a child on the choir stand to the stage of American Idol. McCullough, a Murfreesboro native, is on season 24 of American Idol and has made it to the program’s Golden Room after making it through auditions and Hollywood week.
music notes
Thus far, McCullough sang covers of “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans and “Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder, both performances earning him high praise from the panel of judges comprised of Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.
“Lionel said that it was now a ‘Jordan Wonder’ song,” McCullough said regarding his rendition of Stevie Wonder’s 1972 classic. “That was the biggest compliment I could have received.” McCullough, like so many singers, got involved in music in church as a young child.
“I started in the church,” McCullough told the Murfreesboro Pulse. “From 4 years old all the way
Turntable Talent
Times Two
Local Repair Specialist Straddles
Musical Media and Medium With New Vinyl Release
AS ANy LOvEr OF CLASSiC viNyL kNOwS, every record has two sides.
As it turns out, so does local record-player repairman Tom Blizzard, who spent years as a pro entertainer before establishing his repair business, Turntable Medic. This month will mark the official release of Blizzard’s first vinyl outing, Music for Dancing . . . or Drinking. It’s a much-anticipated milestone for the mechanical music man, whose original music and cover-song performances exist online, but not in the vinyl format he’s long been passionate about. A unique convergence of Blizzard’s complementary interests and skill sets, the new album is also a necessity for the video content he posts on Facebook as Turntable Medic. Most commercially released records, no matter now old, contain copyrighted material, and Blizzard had been concerned
to now, I’ve been singing in the church.” McCullough’s Christian faith has played a central role in his music career and his life outside of music.
“Faith is the foregoing thing in everything I do,” McCullough said.
McCullough is currently a part of Zeal Church in Nashville, where he serves as the worship leader. He has several singles on streaming services with Zeal Worship, including “Offering,” which has over 150,000 streams on Spotify.
Six years prior to his run on American Idol, McCullough appeared on The Voice. Despite not making it past the audition round, McCullough took some valuable lessons away from the experience.
“I think being on The Voice definitely shaped and helped me with what I needed to do preparing for American Idol,” McCullough said.
Part 2 of American Idol’s Hollywood Week, where viewers find out if McCullough makes it to the top 30, airs on Monday, March 2, on ABC. — Bo BBy s chne I de r
about running afoul of legalities that would flag his videos and result in their removal if he demonstrated a newly restored record player with music he couldn’t legally use. His concern grew larger after Facebook informed him late last autumn, much to his surprise, that his content was being monetized, and thus positioned for greater exposure . . . which comes with greater scrutiny.
“Facebook invited me to their secret club,” Blizzard says with a grin, admitting he has no idea what exactly caused his following to jump from around 1,600 last November to 11,000 as of mid-February. The algorithm fairies are doing their stuff, and Blizzard says folks are fascinated with the vintage, often-rare audio gear he features online. With the release of his DIY Music for Dancing . . . or Drinking, Blizzard will be able to demonstrate record players with music he owns, fair and square. Blizzard did receive the first shipments of his record in late February, only to have his excitement dampened by vinyl’s vulnerability: the records arrived warped. Pre-orders can still be made at his website, turntablemedic.com. The 11-track long-player, showcasing Blizzard’s big-band and country/ Americana musical sides, will also be available at his shop at 603 W. Burton St., Suite E. — ste V e M orley
Living
Middle Tennessee Hikes Short
& Easy
Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens
2423 Factory rd., Murfreesboro
That Almost Anyone Can Enjoy
WANT T o exp L o R e Te NN e SS ee bu T N o T S u R e W he R e T o START ?
Maybe your group includes young kids, grandparents or folks who aren’t exactly seasoned hikers.
The good news: Middle Tennessee is packed with scenic, accessible trails that deliver waterfalls, wildlife, overlooks and history—without requiring a backpack full of expensive gear or expert-level stamina.
Here are some easy-to-moderate adventures, all within a reasonable drive from Murfreesboro, that nearly everyone can enjoy.
For those easing into hiking, entertaining out-of-town guests, or simply looking for fresh air without a grueling climb or overnight camping experience, these Middle Tennessee spots prove that you don’t have to go too far—or work too hard—to experience the beauty of the Volunteer State.
Machine Falls
5
Short Springs Natural Area, Short Springs road, Tullahoma Machine Falls, near Tullahoma, is a moderate 1.6-mile round-trip hike featuring a beautiful waterfall framed by rock walls. The trail includes stairs and some rocky footing, but remains doable for most hikers willing to take their time. The lush creek setting, nestled within a heavily wooded Tennessee holler just off of Normandy Lake, makes it feel far removed from civilization.
Just outside Murfreesboro, Flat Rock offers a glimpse into the cedar glade ecosystem—exposed limestone, colorful wildflowers and wide-open skies. The roughly 3-mile loop is mostly flat and easy to navigate. In spring, blooms dot the rocky landscape; in cooler months, it’s a peaceful, breezy walk in nature. It feels wild without being overly difficult or far from town, great for beginners wanting something that encapsulates the qualities of undeveloped Middle Tennessee.
2
Couchville Lake
2910 hobson Pk., hermitage
At Long Hunter State Park, Couchville Lake offers a gentle, paved two-mile loop with constant water views. A long pedestrian bridge stretches across the lake, making it stroller-friendly and ideal for casual walkers and joggers. Ducks skim the surface of the lake, turtles sun themselves on logs and the path stays mostly level. It’s one of the easiest “big scenery” payoffs in the greater Nashville area—especially at sunset.
4
Radnor Lake 1160 Otter Creek rd., Nashville
A Nashville favorite, Radnor Lake offers a flat gravel loop around a peaceful lake framed by wooded hills. Wildlife sightings are common—deer, turtles, herons and even otters. The main Lake Trail is welcoming and gentle, making it ideal for families and visitors new to hiking. Despite its proximity to the city, it feels serene and secluded.
6
Long Hunter State Park Day Loop
2910 hobson Pk., hermitage
3
Beyond Couchville Lake, Long Hunter has several short woodland trails that are approachable and clearly marked. Gentle rolling terrain, lake overlooks and shaded paths make it a solid entry point for new hikers. The park’s abundance of trails allows groups to tailor distance and difficulty without committing to strenuous climbs.
Old Stone Fort
732 Stone Fort dr., Manchester
History and waterfalls combine at Old Stone Fort in Manchester. A relatively easy 1.4-mile paved loop circles an ancient Native American ceremonial site, surrounded by dramatic river cascades. The Duck River and Little Duck River form natural moats around the elevated mound complex. It’s scenic, educational and manageable for most visitors, a great blend of culture and nature in one compact walk.
Jackson Falls
Natchez Trace Pkwy. (Milepost 404.7)
Just off the Natchez Trace Parkway, Jackson Falls is about as short and sweet as waterfall hikes come. Pulling into the Jackson Falls parking lot, an expansive view greets visitors. They can see the mighty Duck River near the base of the steep hillside and a few farms far off in the distance. A brief walk down a paved sidewalk leads to a lovely cascade. The path is short and manageable, though uneven near the base. It’s a great “stretch your legs” stop during a scenic drive.
Fall Hollow Falls
Natchez Trace Pkwy. near hohenwald
Another Natchez Trace gem, Fall Hollow Falls requires only a very short walk from the parking lot to reach two small creek-fed waterfalls. The terrain can be a bit rocky but remains accessible for most visitors. It’s an ideal low-effort, high-reward stop—especially for families with younger kids.
Rutledge Falls
1276 rutledge Falls rd., Tullahoma
One of the shortest waterfall access points in Middle Tennessee, Rutledge Falls involves a brief walk from a roadside parking area. The wide cascade tucked in the shady woods spills into a swimming hole very popular in warmer months. Minimal hiking required, maximum splash potential.
Great Stone Door
1183 Stone door rd., beersheba Springs
For a dramatic overlook without a long trek, Great Stone Door in South Cumberland delivers. The main trail is short and relatively easy. Paved for the first quarter mile or so,
wheelchairs and strollers can access the paved trail to the first overlook, which provides a sweeping bluff view across Savage Gulf. The full journey from the parking area to the Great Stone Door feature is just under a mile, making the payoff well worth the effort.
Foster Falls
South Cumberland State Park, 498 Foster Falls rd., Sequatchie Foster Falls combines an accessible swimming hole with dramatic scenery. A short, well-maintained trail descends to the base of a 60-foot waterfall. It’s a bit steeper than some entries on this list, but manageable for most with careful footing. The overlook near the parking lot provides views even for those who skip the descent.
Burgess Falls
4000 burgess Falls dr., Sparta
Burgess Falls State Park features an easy halfmile overlook trail offering spectacular views of multiple cascades before the river plunges more than 130 feet. The scenic overlook requires minimal effort and delivers one of Tennessee’s most photogenic waterfall vistas.
Twin Falls
Power house rd., walling
Twin Falls at Rock Island State Park is easily viewed from an overlook just steps from the parking lot off of Power House Road on the north side of the Caney Fork River. The twin cascades spill from a rocky cliffside into the river gorge below. Additional easy riverside walking paths, wading areas and natural points of interest add to the experience without the demands of strenuous hiking.
Stones River Battlefield
3501 Old Nashville hwy., Murfreesboro
Paved trails, roads and greenway paths weave through this historic Civil War battlefield, making it accessible for walkers, runners, cyclists and even motorists and provide a reflective and scenic outing in Murfreesboro. The 570-plus-acre battlefield property offers 7 miles of trails on a combination of paved, gravel, wood chip and dirt terrain. Some, like the half-mile Cotton Field Trail, are paved. Others, like the 3.2-mile Boundary Trail, offer a more challenging hiking experience.
Murfreesboro Greenway
Multiple access points
Miles of paved trails follow the Stones River throughout town, connecting parks and neighborhoods. Flat sections, shaded stretches and multiple access points make it ideal for beginners. Walk as little or as far as you like on the 15mile system.
Oaklands Park
427 roberts St., Murfreesboro
Adjacent to the historic Oaklands Mansion, easy walking paths wind through mature trees and open lawns. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll, seasonal blooms and to catch the occasional vintage base ball games.
Fall Creek Falls
2009 village Camp rd., Spencer
One of Tennessee’s crown jewels, Fall Creek Falls State Park offers easy overlook access to its towering 256-foot waterfall. While longer trails exist, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views without a strenuous hike. It’s a fitting grand finale for any Middle Tennessee adventure list and one of the state’s must-see points.
Living
she was alone, she played anyway. That kind of spirit set the tone for what followed.
“We started with one player and a whole lot of hope,” West said. “Mrs. Judy showed up, and that meant everything. Now we have a room full of people every second Monday of the month, and it just keeps growing.”
By k at I e
whAT bEgAN wiTh A SiNgLE player and a dream has grown into a heartwarming monthly Murfreesboro tradition.
On Feb. 9, Traci West of Caris Healthcare, along with the team at Chick-fil-A on Memorial Boulevard, marked a milestone worth celebrating: the second anniversary of Senior Appreciation Bingo. What started as a simple idea to honor the local senior citizen community has blossomed into a lively monthly event that draws up to 40 players, brings local organizations together, and fills a Chick-fil-A dining room with laughter, friendly competition, and the occasional visit from a certain famous bovine mascot. The story of how it all began says a lot about a community that shows up even when the crowd is small. On Feb. 13, 2024, the very first Senior Appreciation Bingo got underway, and exactly one player showed up. Her name was Mrs. Judy, and though
From that single player, the event now regularly draws around 40 participants, and the organizers have stocked up 49 bingo boards, hoping one day to fill every last seat and board. Held the second Monday of each month at 9 a.m., the event is open to anyone aged 60 and up to win prizes, and even Chick-fil-A patrons passing through can join in for a chance to win candy.
The growth hasn’t happened by accident. A dedicated crew of community volunteers has shown up consistently to make each month’s event special. Olivia Blondin with Ozark River Manufacturing has been volunteering since day one, calling the numbers with energy and making sure the extra-large bingo cards are properly shuffled before play begins. Amanda Graves from Adams Place has also been a constant presence since the beginning, helping coordinate and support the event month after month. Katie Coleman with Spearhead Consulting is another enthusiastic volunteer who helps create a fun atmosphere for players. Myra Roundtree with Republic Bank brings her sharp eyes to the table, double-checking
numbers on the boards to keep the games running smoothly and fairly. Roundtree has also brought in her photo booth from her party company, Capture Smiles Photo Booth, giving players a chance to strike a pose and get a little glamorous between rounds.
The whole thing came together with enthusiastic support from Collette Wolfgram, senior vice president at Chick-fil-A Murfreesboro, who was immediately on board with the idea of creating a meaningful, recurring way to show appreciation for Murfreesboro’s senior community. From the start, the goal was simple: give seniors a fun, welcoming place to gather and feel celebrated.
Two community organizations have become regulars, bringing their residents by van each month: Adams Place and the Tennessee State Veterans Home. Their participation has helped shape the event and expanded its reach to seniors who might not otherwise be able to attend.
Speaking of veterans, the group organized a special Veteran Appreciation Bingo day, during which each veteran in attendance was presented with a Chick-fil-A service coin as a token of gratitude for their service.
The event has also partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association for a themed bingo day focused on educating players about 10 healthy habits to incorporate into daily life, blending fun with an important community
health message.
Prize-wise, players have no shortage of reasons to get excited. All prizes are donated by Chick-fil-A and range from gift cards and free food items to key chains, clothing, socks, lapel pins, cups, writing pens, and beloved stuffed animal cows. The players themselves voted to allow unlimited prize wins throughout the games, and every session wraps up with a full cover-all round to close things out with a bang.
And then there are the cows. Chick-fil-A’s iconic cow mascots, big cow and the kiddie cow, make special appearances from time to time, prompting a flurry of photos.
Community volunteers are always welcome. Anyone who wants to help, whether it is getting drinks, assisting players with their boards, or handing out prizes, is encouraged to come and join in. The event thrives on that spirit of togetherness.
Senior Appreciation bingo is held at 9 a.m. on the second Monday of each month at Chick-fil-A, 2116 Memorial blvd., with upcoming dates set for March 9 and April 13. Anyone 60 and older is welcome to play for prizes. For more information, contact Traci west at 615-364-0268 or email twest@carishealthcare.com, or stop by Chick-fil-A on the next game day. Mrs. Judy will be glad you did!
Meet the Muskrats of Murfree Spring
story and photos
By ashleIGh newnes
iF yO u TA k E A STROLL ALO n G
the boardwalks at Murfree Spring Wetlands, you’ve probably seen a small, furry shape moving purposefully through the water. While many people visit the spring to see the herons or the turtles, the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) is currently one of the most reliable wildlife sightings in the park. On a single walk, it is common to spot several of them, usually completely absorbed in their own daily routine.
The name is a bit of a misnomer; the muskrat isn’t actually a “true rat.” They are semi-aquatic rodents found across most of North America. Most people initially mistake them for beavers, but the “tail-tale” sign is the giveaway. While a beaver’s tail is a wide, flat paddle, the muskrat has a long, thin tail, slicing through the water like a rudder.
Roughly the size of a small house cat, muskrats move with a focused energy. They aren’t particularly interested in the people watching them from the boardwalk; they rarely look up, preferring to stay dialed into their work.
Muskrats are the unofficial gardeners of Murfree Spring. They are primarily vegetarians, munching on the roots, shoots, and stems of aquatic greenery. By grazing on the fast-growing vegetation, they help keep water
channels open for the fish, turtles, and water birds that share the habitat.
If you look closely at the base of submerged trees or floating logs, you might catch a muskrat taking a break. They often curl up into a small, furry ball to sleep right on top of a patch of matted grass or a sturdy tree root. These aren’t elaborate nests they’ve built; they are just convenient, natural spots where they can catch a midday nap in the sun before getting back to work.
When they aren’t napping on tree stumps, muskrats live in more permanent structures. They are skilled at tunneling into the soft, muddy banks to create burrows with secret, underwater entrances. In more open areas, they might build “lodges”—dome-shaped mounds made of mud and vegetation that look like miniature versions of the beaver dams also found at Murfree Spring.
One reason muskrats are so visible at Murfree Spring is how quickly they reproduce and grow. In our region, they can have between two and four litters a year, with an average of five or six kits per litter. These young grow at an incredible pace, learning to swim at just two weeks old and transitioning to solid food by the third week. While they may stay nearby their parents for some time, they are technically capable of surviving
on their own at just one month old. This fast-tracked upbringing means that the population can grow quickly, making the spring feel busy with activity.
Next time you’re walking the boardwalk, pause for a second. You’ll likely see a muskrat surfacing near a patch of greenery or paddling toward a bank. They won’t stop to acknowledge you, but watching their quiet, busy lives is one of the best ways to spend a morning at the spring this time of year.
Murfree Springs is a vital habitat located right inside the heart of the city, which means trash is a constant problem. But it doesn’t have to be! Let’s protect these muskrats and all the other critters who share our city. One way to do that is to help the staff at Outdoor Murfreesboro pick up litter at Murfree Spring and at our other city parks. Visit murfreesborotn. gov/1937 to sign up to volunteer and help keep our city parks beautiful!
For Wild b irds, h ome Is Where the Nest Is
DuRinG THE SPRinG, hundreds of wild bird species return from their tropical, wintering grounds to nest and raise their young. This massive spring migration brings the greatest opportunity of any season to attract birds by providing nesting materials and safely located nesting boxes. With birds expending so much energy during migration, courting and looking for food, these helpful additions will make their lives easier.
Since few hollow trees remain in cities and suburban yards, man-made nesting boxes have been credited with helping to increase the previously declining populations of cavitydwelling wild birds, such as bluebirds.
“A bird’s primary consideration when choosing a nesting site is security,” according to information from Jeff & Joann Royer, owners of the Murfreesboro Wild Birds Unlimited. “Protection from predators and proximity to food is of vital importance to the success of a bird’s offspring.”
It is both entertaining and educational to watch birds as they go through the many stages of their lives, including choosing a nest site, making the nest, laying eggs, feeding their hatchlings and then watching the fledglings as they venture out on their own.
It is also hard to describe the emotions produced by seeing freshly fledged bluebirds being brought to the feeders, the joy in watching the antics of fledgling chickadees as they endlessly harass their parents to be fed, or the humor as clumsy young woodpeckers learn the ways of using a bird feeder.
you can make a significant difference in how well these extended families will survive and thrive in your backyard during this year’s nesting cycle.
For more advice on caring for your bird families, contact the local bird feeding experts at wild birds unlimited, 2615 Medical Center Pkwy. (Suite 1060) in Murfreesboro, or visit wbu.com/murfreesboro.
Cemetery School
Restoration and Rehab Making p rogress, Former School to Soon o pen as Museum
THiS MOnTH we’re going to do an update on the old Cemetery School, located on Old Nashville Highway directly behind the Stones River United Methodist Church. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Vincent Windrow, who has taken the lead on bringing the historic school back to life.
Windrow is working with the Friends of Cemetery School nonprofit group, with support from the MTSU Center for Historic Preservation, the Stones River National Battlefield and other community members to preserve the history of this community, which sprung up just after the Civil War, comprised of recently freed slave families.
We discussed the importance of the segregated, all-black Cemetery School, including the folks who helped create it and the folks who benefited from it. Cemetery School was built by the former slaves and U.S. military veterans of color in the community, many of whom got work helping bury soldiers at the Stones River National Battlefield Cemetery, hence the name of the community.
As the cemetery and battlefield grew, those former slaves got pushed out to where the Methodist Church is today. The Cemetery community had three main parts to it— there was the church, there was the school and then there was a cemetery, which still stands across from the Harley Davidson dealership on Broad Street. The community started in the 1870s, just after the Civil War. Some of these U.S. troops stayed in the area
and became government workers.
The actual school was founded in 1874; the building that is there today was built in 1941.
Much of Tennessee was still segregated up until the 1950s and ’60s.
In more recent years, the Cemetery School has been a fellowship hall for the church and a storage facility for the Washington family, who owned the owned the land.
I found out that Vincent’s mother went to school there and his grandmother taught there. They’ve been working on rehabbing and remodeling the school for the last four or five months and it’s now about 75% complete. Once it’s ready, those restoring it will hold a dedication of the school. One half of the school is going to be archives and a museum. The other half will be set up to look like the school did back in the 1940s.
In June, Murfreesboro City Schools will pick 100 youth to go to Patriot Camps. While there, they will learn about their civic duty and what it means to be a citizen of our country, the United States of America. Part of their study of history, during this summer when we will be celebrating our country’s 250th year of independence, will involve the history of the Cemetery School.
While Vincent was going through some things at the school, he found a book that his mother, Veral, had used and she had written her name in the book when she was a student at Cemetery School.
As far as the school update, they’ve got the HVAC installed. They have running water with a bathroom and a nice kitchen. It’s looking great! I am so happy to have folks in our community like Vincent Windrow who help keep history alive. I’ve known Vincent since seventh grade, when we learned about civics at Central Middle School. He is a pastor at the Olive Branch Church here in Murfreesboro and Nashville. He’s also an author, public speaker and owns a consulting business.
We need to always learn from our history. I look forward to hearing more about these Patriot Camps in June, when the youth will learn about the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, patriotic songs, citizenship and history.
Now, everybody go out and do something nice for someone else. God bless!
Call bill wilson for your local real estate needs at 615-406-5872.
for the kids
thousands to gather for annual special kids race, March 14
By BoBBy schneIder
SPECiAL kidS will host its 15th annual Special Kids Race this month, the large community running event set for Saturday, March 14, once again starting and finishing at Murfreesboro Medical Clinic on Garrison Drive.
Proceeds from the event go directly to Special Kids and are used to cover the costs of health care and therapy for children with special needs.
With these funds, Special Kids strives to provide the best care possible to area families in need.
“We work hard to raise funds doing the Special Kids Race so that families don’t have to worry about paying a bill, and they can receive the same skilled therapy and nursing services that they would somewhere else,” said event organizer Holly Sylvester.
events like these to bring the community together for a good cause.
“It’s amazing to see the support that this community has for Special Kids and to see so many people in one place just rallying around our mission,” Sylvester said. Sylvester said she cherishes her role with Special Kids and appreciates the impact it has on the community, and the services it has provided to her own family.
Participants can opt for 15K, 10K or 5K race distances, or participate in a one-mile family fun run.
There will also be a Family Fun Zone with food and activities that everyone can enjoy.
“We’re going to have a ton of free food— nuggets from Chick-fil-A, donuts from Donut Country and grilled cheeses from MTE,” Sylvester said. “We’re going to have face painting, fire trucks and big cement trucks from Smyrna Ready Mix.”
For many years, Special Kids has used
“My son has special needs and he’s on the autism spectrum, and when he was very young he was actually evaluated at Special Kids,” Sylvester said.
Special Kids has given others the opportunity to have fullcircle moments like this as well.
“We have a young lady that works in our office [named] Chloe and she works in the development office,” Sylvester said. “She actually graduated from the program at Special Kids.”
Along with the Special Kids Race, Special Kids hosts a spring and fall golf tournament every year to raise funds for special needs children.
To register for the March 14 Special kids race and for more on the event, visit specialkidsrace.com; learn more about Special kids and its therapy services at specialkidstn.com.
restaurant Food
FCooking with Kahlo
Frida’s Cafe serves bold flavors of Mexico, coffee drinks, various breakfast items in colorful space
dish were wonderful,” LaFerriere said. “In the end I was stuffed, but really impressed with the quality (and quantity) of food from this small shop,” adding that he “loved the decor.”
The Dish
f r I da’s c afe
1798 w. Northfield b lvd. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. every day 615-624-7664
Torta: $9.99; Tacos ahogados: $12.99; Concha rellenas (filled with strawberries, banana, Nutella and sweet cream): $6.99; Tamale (pork or chicken): $2.99; Chilaquiles rellenos with steak: $18.48
Order Frida’s Cafe on d oor d ash
Blanca, Jesus and Maria are the trio of siblings from Jalisco, Mexico, behind the cafe.
rida’s Cafe, a bright and colorful spot within the Kroger shopping center near the Northfield and Broad intersection, takes its name from popular Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Serving a wide mixture of crepes, conchas, sweet items and coffee along with delicious enchiladas, tacos, flautas, chilaquiles, tortas and more from its beautiful cafe space, the family-owned spot has impressed many Murfreesboro diners throughout its first couple of years of operation.
Just as Kahlo used a bold and vivid palette of colors to create her expressive works of art, Frida’s Cafe uses an appealing variety of colors and flavors in creating its food and beverages.
The broad drink menu, among the coffee beverages, lattes and horchata, also includes a beautifully orange carrot juice—as well as freshly squeezed beet juice and orange juice— a variety of aguas frescos (such as hibiscus, mango, lime and cucumber, and guava), and taro, a sweet, strikingly purple concoction made from taro, the purple root vegetable similar to a sweet potato, blended with milk. Likewise, Frida’s serves an array of some
deliciously flavored, colorful food dishes at its fun and festive cafe.
“The coffee—so good! That’s when I knew this place was already amazing,” said Frida’s customer Jessica Barrera. “The chilaquiles rellenos were absolutely delicious, full of flavor, comforting and clearly made with love. You can tell this isn’t rushed food. It’s the kind that feels homemade and intentional.”
These chilaquiles rellenos, a plate comprised of small wedges of cheese quesadilla covered in green or red sauce—or, a blend of both—comes topped with a fried egg, beans, sour cream, cheese, onion and steak or chicken (or no meat).
Local restaurant frequenter Joe LaFerriere ordered Frida’s chilaquiles rellenos, his first time trying the dish, he said, and went with a half-and-half blend of the sauces, calling them “some of the best tomatillos and salsa roja sauces. The sauces are not ‘hot,’ but are bursting with great flavors.”
He said the green was his favorite, but “you won’t go wrong with the salsa roja.”
“The aroma from the various parts of the
The flautas—chicken rolled in tortillas and fried, like mini-chimichangas—arrive topped with a swirl of sour cream, as well as guacamole, pico de gallo and lettuce.
Other menu items range from omelets to tamales to paninis, among other delicious breakfast and lunch choices.
“I can get a delightful breakfast that involves chorizo and eggs with a waffle and a fantastic hot chocolate,” according to a review posted by Daniel Rachael Babcock. “The tamales I grabbed to go were also great.”
The tortillas used in the enchiladas have a tasty, corny flavor.
On the sweet side, find waffles, crepes and pancakes, which can be topped with caramel, fruit or chocolate syrup, as well as tres leches cake, a pastry known as Gorditas de Harina Sabor Lechera, and conchas, a house-made specialty, fluffy rolls encrusted with a sweet icing-like topping in seashell designs.
The Frida’s concha rellena makes a fantastic fruity dessert creation, featuring a large concha, split and loaded with Nutella, whipped cream, bananas and strawberries.
“I highly recommend the horchata latte and a crepe,” Allyson Tolson said.
“It’s all a group effort,” said Blanca, regarding the conceptualization of the menu. “We all had ideas.”
Another of the delicious Frida’s food items, one not commonly found in Tennessee, is the tacos ahogados.
“Ahogados” translates from Spanish as “drowned,” and refers to a style of Mexican cuisine where food—commonly eggs or tacos—are submerged in a flavorful sauce.
Frida’s fills its tacos ahogados with mashed potato, smothers them in a red enchilada-type sauce, tops them with cabbage and deliciously moist and tender bits of pork carnitas, and serves these alongside a cup of a fairly spicy hot sauce and some pink pickled onions. These are not exactly a “pick up with your hands” style of taco; more of a fork dish.
As far as the vibrant artwork on the cafe walls, “My brother-in-law did all the murals,” Blanca said. “My brother [Jesus] is a big fan of Frida Kahlo. She was a very independent woman; a lot of Mexican women look up to her.”
Experience the creative cooks’ vivid tribute to the artist and their personal takes on some of their favorite Mexican dishes at the Northfield Boulevard eatery, open every day from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
story By B racken M ayo
photos By sarah M ayo
a round t own
Cavender’s boot City, MilkShake Factory, bibles and Coffee, waldo’s, k&g Africa, Seven brew, Che Taqueria
By delores ell I ott
CAvENdEr’S bOOT CiTy recently celebrated the grand opening of its Murfreesboro store—its fifth Tennessee location—at 1979 Old Fort Pkwy., with hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Known for its wide selection of hand crafted western boots, the 12,000-squarefoot store provides space for its full line of men’s, women’s, and children’s hats, shirts, jeans, dresses, belts, and western accent ac cessories, as well as work boots and apparel.
Well-known brands offered include Ariat, Wrangler and Resistol. Cavender also offers its own brands including Rockin’ C, Rafter C, and JRC & Sons brands.
The new store offers personalized services including boot fitting, hat shaping, boot stretching and more. As a special perk, customers can join My Cavender’s, the brand’s loyalty program, where guests can enjoy exclusive offers, early access to sales and promotions, hassle-free returns, invites to special events, and other bonuses. For more infor mation, visit cavenders.com.
bibLES ANd COFFEE—ThE CAFE, has announced that it will open at 214 W. Main St. in downtown Murfreesboro.
“What began as Bibles and Coffee online is becoming a physical place in downtown Murfreesboro. After 10 years and over 13,000 Bibles shipped worldwide, we’re creating a space where faith feels approachable, coffee invites you to slow down, and community happens naturally,” according to a post from the company.
The cafe is expected to open in April, although an official date has not been set. Visit biblesandcoffee.com for more information and updates.
wALdO’S ChiCkEN & bEEr will host its ribbon-cutting and grand opening on Tuesday, March 3, at 10
MiLkShAkE FACTOry has opened a new location of its ice cream parlor and confectionery shop at The Avenue, 2615 Medical Center Pkwy., Suite 2390, in between Bar Louie and Paris Baguette.
The shop specializes in premium handspun milkshakes made with homemade ice cream. In addition to milkshake classics like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, MilkShake Factory serves signature creations topped with cookies, candy bars, brownies, whipped cream and sauces, as well as sundaes, floats, specialty chocolates, as well as dairy-free options made with soy, coconut and almond milk.
Tracing its roots to a family-owned Pittsburgh shop that opened in 1914, the Murfreesboro location joins a growing footprint for the brand, which has expanded rapidly across the Southeast and Midwest in recent years. Current MilkShake Factory Murfreesboro hours are noon to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Learn more at milkshakefactory.com
a.m. at its new Murfreesboro location at 4310 Veterans Pkwy., Suite A.
Waldo’s scratch-made menu features signature Southern-fried and rotisserie chicken, served on the bone, on a bun, in a bowl, or in a basket, with fresh ingredients prepared daily, including house-made sauces and
dressings, and cheddar biscuits made with hand-grated cheese. Sides include mac and cheese, fries, tomato cucumber salad, white beans and collard greens, with fresh-baked cookies or banana pudding for dessert.
Family meals, buckets of chicken, and the “feed-the-flock” special are available for dine-in or takeout.
The Murfreesboro location features 91 seats, 9 indoor TVs, an expansive patio, fastlane drive-thru and a full bar. Guests can enjoy a selection of 16 draft beers, cocktails, wine, spiked slushies and margaritas, along with daily happy hour from 3–6 p.m. and all day Tuesdays and Sundays.
Waldo’s now operates 29 locations across nine states. The Murfreesboro restaurant is the brand’s eighth location in Middle Tennessee. For more, visit waldoschicken.com
MiSS b’S ThAi ANd SuShi has opened at The Fountains at Gateway, 1440 Medical Center Pkwy., in the space formerly occupied by Love Thai Sushi.
In addition to a variety of curry, sushi and fried rice selections, menu options include Japanese appetizers like takoyaki and gyoza, soups, salads and egg rolls.
Miss B’s shares owners with Honey’s Bie Thai and Sushi in Smyrna.
Visit online.skytab.com/s/missbsthaiandsushi to order.
Chef Alex Belew, a Murfreesboro native, has joined forces with Nashville pitmaster and restaurateur Shane Nasby to bring a new restaurant concept to Murfreesboro. The eatery, called ChiNwAg, will be located at The Fountains at Gateway, at 1440 Medical Center Pkwy. in the space formerly occupied by Burger Republic.
Chinwag will offer combinations that blend smoke and fire along with ingredients and techniques from all over, as well as a robust cocktail, beer, and wine program.
“Getting together to eat delicious food with people you like should be a joyful experience,” Belew said. “We’re serving everyday food prepared with a little extra thought and attention to detail, but without pretension.”
Nasby and Belew bring their respective culinary experience and inspirations to the table in this partnership. Belew is an award-winning chef and the winner of Hell’s Kitchen season 21, while Nasby is a Grand Champion BBQ pitmaster and World Burger Competition winner.
Chinwag’s name was a moment of inspiration for Nasby while watching the hit show Schitt’s Creek
“Moira Rose mentioned having a ‘chinwag’ with another character, and it caught my attention, so I looked it up,” said Nasby. “It’s a great old British term that means a long chat between friends. When we were developing this concept, we knew we wanted to create a place for people to socialize and catch up over a great meal, so Chinwag seemed like the perfect name.”
The restaurant is expected to open this summer. Visit chinwagsocial.com for updates and more information.
ChiPOTLE will open another Murfreesboro location, this one set for Veterans Parkway near Blackman Road.
In addition to its existing restaurants located on Thompson Lane, Memorial Bou-
levard and South Church Street, Chipotle has also begun construction on its South Rutherford building, near MTSU.
SEvEN brEw COFFEE plans to build another location of its drive-thru coffee concept. Located on Memorial Boulevard, the new Seven Brew will sit beside the Leech Family Dentistry building, nearby Andy’s Frozen Custard and Sports*Com.
Banners for both JAMbA JuiCE and MOE’S SOuThwEST griLL have been hung outside of the former Bojangles building at the corner of Memorial and Irongate.
ChE TAquEriA has opened at 1813 Memorial Blvd. It offers a variety of authentic flavors from Jalisco, Mexico.
“We specialize in traditional Mexican street-style tacos made with fresh ingredients,” according to Che Taqueria’s social media.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
SCOOPy’S is now open at 2458 Old Fort Pkwy., near Middle Ground Brewing Co. and Sam’s Club, after the ice cream and paletas shop closed at Jackson Heights to
make room for the AutoZone taking over much of that space.
k&g AFriCAN/CAribbEAN MArkET has opened at 2705 Old Fort Pkwy., near NexGen Barbershop.
PErkiNS AuTOMOTivE has announced its plans to build the Perkins Motor Plex auto dealership along Beasie Road, just off of I-24.
closed
ThE PEACh CObbLEr FACTOry has closed its Medical Center Parkway location after just over two years in the space. The Smyrna Peach Cobbler Factory location at 547 Almaville Rd. remains open.
riON FLOwErS ANd giFTS has closed its 117 S. Academy St. shop. Established in 1937 by Mattie Rion, Rion’s has operated in the downtown area for decades.
“There have been some days over the years that were busy with people drinking coffee, shopping and getting flowers,” according to a February letter from Jenny and Chuck Harrison, who acquired the shop in 2018. “It was a happy time.”
However, Jenny has experienced some serious health struggles over the past years.
“It’s been a difficult five years trying to work or function in daily life,” the Rion owners wrote in the letter, addressed to its “Customers, Suppliers & Associates.”
“We were hoping to keep the shop going, but in this economy it doesn’t appear that is going to happen.”
LANES, TrAiNS ANd AuTOMObiLES will close its Murfreesboro bowling and entertainment complex after more than 15 years of operation.
“The owner of the building has elected to sell the property, and the new owner plans to occupy the space,” according to a letter released in February by LTA ownership. “As a result, Lanes, Trains and Automobiles has reached a mutual agreement to conclude its tenancy and begin the process of closing operations at this location.”
The final day of operations at the Murfreesboro location will be April 4, the release continued, and LTA will continue normal business hours until closure.
By sean M oran
Opinion money matters
whEN PLANNiNg for retirement, you often think “do I have enough money?” Many times, you will consider a safe withdrawal rate, look at your savings, Social Security, pensions and other assets to make that assessment. There are a number of things to consider to make sure your plan stays on track. This article will discuss some of the more common derailers to keep in mind.
1
s equence of r eturns r isk
Two people can retire a year or two apart with the same amount of savings, spend the same amount each year and have their money invested identically, and one could run out of money long before the other. This is the sequence of returns risk, where early losses while you are withdrawing money can deplete your retirement savings at an alarming rate. Imagine Joe has $1M saved for retirement. He retires and the market goes down 30% and he withdraws $60,000. A few months later the market fully recovers, but for a time his account went from $1M to $640,000. Conversely, Jane’s account temporarily went down from $1M to $700,000 and went right back up, while Joe’s account is now at $914,000. Planning for potential market drops by creating a volatility buffer can change
the world? Are you planning to buy a new car or boat, or renovate your home? Perhaps you have grandchildren and you will be spending time traveling to see them? These things cost money, and while many people assume that retirement means your spending will go down, that isn’t always the case. With free time, you may want to take up new hobbies, travel, or even pay off your home in one lump sum. You want to plan accordingly and understand what your lifestyle will truly cost. Your spending may not be linear. Have you also considered the cost of care in the future? Long-term care for the later years is best to plan in your 50s and 60s, so the cost isn’t a huge surprise when you need it.
the course of your retirement. I’ve run the numbers and the difference can be significant.
2u nderestimating h ealthcare c osts
Retiring before age 65 means you don’t yet qualify for Medicare. Planning for the cost of medical insurance and factoring into your budget is crucial. If your company provides medical coverage, you may be saving as much as $1,000 or more per month compared to buying your own insurance. It is important to understand the cost of insurance and understand your options.
3taking social security too early
The right time to take Social Security can be different for each person. It’s important to have a conversation with your financial advisor. Drawing benefits at age 62 can permanently reduce your monthly income by up to 30% because taking it early means you get a smaller monthly payout. Coordinate your claiming strategy with your tax planning and investment withdrawal strategy as opposed to making a decision simply to have cash flow immediately.
4u nderestimating l ifestyle c reep
What is your plan when you retire? Will you sit at home and garden? Do you want to travel
5poor tax p lanning on r etirement w ithdrawals
When it comes to taxes, do you project your income and your taxes out multiple years or just see where you are in April each year? If you aren’t strategic in your planning, you could be triggering capital gains in years when you wouldn’t want them, you might miss opportunities to do Roth conversions in lower tax years, and you may let your taxable retirement accounts grow significantly prior to age 73, the current RMD age. This is when you are required to take money out of your retirement account. If you let the accounts grow significantly, you may be setting yourself up for taxation in higher tax brackets as well as increased Medicare premium surcharges.
conclusion
There are strategies in all of these areas where a good financial advisor can help you keep more money instead of giving more to your uncle in Washington D.C.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not tax, legal or financial advice. To connect with Sean Moran, call 615-619-6919, email smoran@redbarnfinancial.com or visit redbarnfinancial.com.
PHOTO COURTESy OF KAMPUS PRODUCTION / PE x ELS
By t I ffany B oyd
Opinion # FR ee Y ou R C h ILDR e N
Standing u p to Student Character and Data Tracking
i rECENTLy gAvE TESTiMONy in the Utah House of Representatives in support of Bill HB399, Prohibition Against Student Character Tracking and Grading Systems by Rep. Trevor Lee. The video of my testimony can be accessed on the Free YOUR Children YouTube channel.
The Higher Ground team, Monica Wilbur and Natalie Cline, consulted with the bill sponsor on the drafting of the bill. I had the pleasure of interviewing Monica and Natalie back in 2024. That interview can be accessed on my website at freeyourchildren.com
Their bill seeks to provide protections for students from invasive social emotional learning programs being implemented in Utah schools. If you are wondering why someone from Tennessee would be concerned about public schools in Utah, you need to understand that social emotional learning is being implemented across the U.S. The state of Tennessee recommends that SEL competencies be embedded into every area of school life. Tennessee law states:
“ Section 49 -6-1007 – Character education
(a) The course of instruction in all public schools shall include character education to help each student develop positive values and improve student conduct as students learn to act in harmony with their positive values and learn to become good citizens in their school, community and society. Public schools are urged to include the use of nonviolence as a means of conflict resolution within character education.
(b)(1) The department of education shall provide the appropriate method of instruction in kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12), in conformity with the elementary school curriculum provided for in subsection (c).
(2) Local boards of education may implement additional courses and materials in character education at their discretion.
(c) Each LEA shall provide the character education curriculum set forth in the curriculum provided by the department or a comparable program approved by the department.
(d) Human resource agencies created pursuant to title 13, chapter 26 may serve as the service delivery system for the character education program.”
There has been a shift in education away from academics to psychological education. According to the NAEP, 68% of 4th grade students in Tennessee are not proficient in reading and 58% are not proficient in math. 69% of eighth grade students are not proficient in math, while 69% are not proficient in reading.
While Tennessee public schools’ academic performance remains abysmal, billions of dollars are being pumped into SEL programs in the state. Via coordinated school health, the SEL web in Tennessee encompasses counselors, psychologists, social workers and school nurses, as well as private mental health providers who have contracted with the state, in addition to other community partners.
CASEL has been integral in
embedding SEL in schools across the U.S. Their focus is specifically on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making.
This is a direct attempt to usurp parental rights and responsibilities. This replacement parenting, in addition to usurping parental autonomy, seeks to change the thoughts, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors of our nation’s children. States do not need a government-funded program teaching children basic principles of parenthood. The teaching of beliefs and values belongs in the home and is the right of the parents. My article “What Is Social Emotional Learning” goes into more detail on the history and ramifications of SEL.
SEL has also been a topic I have covered numerous times on various radio shows with guests from across the nation. Those interviews can also be found at freeyourchildren.com. The implementation of SEL is being driven by Personalized Competency Based Education via dynamic curricula and assessments which parents can not review. Dynamic curricula and assessments can be changed and formatted at any time. The data harvested is then used to inform and manipulate software systems designed to achieve predetermined outcomes.
The vast amounts of data harvested from students can then be used to create character competency/digital passports which hold records of soft skills, which include attitudes and socialemotional characteristics. These passports, via interoperable data bases and advancing technology, can potentially follow a student indefinitely. What would this mean for students outside of the government school system, whose parents have chosen freedom in education? This could prove disastrous for their future. If they lack these competency passports, they could be denied
opportunities. The lack of a passport could impede college admissions and future jobs.
State tracking, conformity and control systems, while using children as vehicles for profit, is a violation of our inalienable rights.
Utah has a Republican trifecta and a Republican triplex. The Republican Party controls the offices of governor, attorney general, and both chambers of the state legislature.
The irony in this is that prior to the vast changes made to the Republican Party National Platform, Republicans claimed they were against the use of federal funds for socio-emotional screening programs and the collecting and sharing of social emotional, personal, and family data, yet it was expanding under their watch. It is no surprise that this excerpt has now been removed from their platform. How did supposed conservatives go from “this is wholly incompatible with the American Experiment and our inalienable rights” to supporting and advancing these initiatives?
As I watched the committee meeting in Utah via Zoom, it was interesting to listen to legislators discuss the bill and education in their state. I found it particularly alarming that a few were oblivious to the SEL programs currently being implemented. It was a stark reminder that it is the responsibility of parents to ask questions and do their own research. If anyone is depending on a politician to serve as a gatekeeper of protection for their family, they are in for a rude awakening. As a resident of Tennessee, I knew more about the educational climate in Utah than some of their own legislators.
The Utah bill has a unique opportunity to set a precedent for upholding conservative beliefs and protecting inalienable rights. It will be interesting to see if their legislature does exactly that.
Tiffany boyd is the founder of Free yOur Children. Learn more at freeyourchildren.com.
PHOTO COURTESy OF LUKAS BLAZEK / PE x ELS
By Byron G lenn
your c ar i s s elling you o ut tech talk
rEMEMbEr whEN a car was just a car? You turned the key, adjusted the radio, rolled down the windows, and hit the road. For many on the road today, those days are over.
Newer vehicles are rolling data centers, and they’re collecting more information about you than your phone, your smart TV, and your fitness tracker combined. Every trip to the grocery store, every hard brake, every mph over the speed limit, it’s all being recorded, and sold.
the data GoldMIne In your drIVeway
Today’s connected cars don’t just track where you’re going. They monitor how fast you accelerate, how hard you brake, whether you’re wearing your seatbelt, what music you play, who you call, and even what your face looks like while you drive.
A comprehensive privacy review (by Mozilla Foundation, the nonprofit behind Firefox browser) found that your car creates data about “how fast you drive, what songs you listen to, what your face looks like, and everywhere your car goes.”
But it doesn’t stop there.
Car companies also collect information through your phone’s connected app, public sources, and other companies. They use all that information to make “inferences” about your characteristics, including your predispositions and intelligence.
In 2024, an investigation revealed that General Motors had been collecting detailed driving data from millions of vehicles and selling it to insur-
ance companies without drivers’ explicit consent. LexisNexis, a data broker, was purchasing this information and creating “driver scores” that insurers used to raise rates.
Drivers who thought they had clean records suddenly saw their premiums spike. Why? Because their cars had reported hard braking events, late-night driving, or rapid acceleration, all behaviors their insurance companies now knew about.
where your data actually Goes
Privacy researchers examining major car brands discovered your data can be sold or shared with service providers, other third parties, government and law enforcement, advertising and research companies, other drivers, dealers, social media platforms, data brokers, connected services like SiriusXM and OnStar, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
why your data Is worth It
Insurance companies pay for your data to assess risk and set rates. Advertisers want to know your routines. Law enforcement can use it in criminal investigations. Divorce lawyers can subpoena it in custody battles.
Some automakers have subscription models for features like heated seats, remote start, and advanced safety features, all enabled by the data your car collects about how you use it.
what you can do
You can’t completely escape
vehicle tracking in 2026, but you can limit your exposure.
disable what you can: Dig into your vehicle’s settings for data-sharing options. Many connected features can be turned off. You might lose some convenience, but you’ll regain privacy.
be cautious with connections: Before syncing your phone, understand exactly what permissions you’re granting. Consider using Bluetooth only for calls and music, skipping the full integration that gives access to your contacts, messages and location history.
Limit app usage: Those convenient car apps on your phone? They’re collecting additional data beyond what the vehicle itself captures. Use them sparingly or not at all.
the road ahead
Your car knows where you’ve been, predicts your intelligence and shares that information with dozens of third parties you’ve never heard of.
The question isn’t whether it’s tracking you, it’s whether you’re okay with that data being packaged, analyzed, and sold to service providers, advertisers, data brokers, insurance companies, and anyone else willing to pay for it.
As it’s often said: if a service is free, you’re not the customer, you’re the product. Turns out, even when you spend $40,000 on a new car, the same rule applies.
Your data is digital gold. Your car is mining it. And someone else is cashing in.
Constitution Study
By paul enGel
c onstitutional c arry, b ut . . .
the Constitutions of either the United States or Tennessee. TCA 39-17-1307 is an even worse violation.
(a)(1) A person commits an offense who carries, with the intent to go armed, a firearm or a club.
— Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1307
Known as the “Going Armed” statute, this makes it a crime to go armed, even though the Tennessee Constitution says it’s alright.
Section 26. That the citizens of this State have a right to keep and to bear arms for their common defense; but the Legislature shall have power, by law, to regulate the wearing of arms with a view to prevent crime.
— Constitution of the State of Tennessee, Article I, Section 26
MOrE ThAN hALF OF ThE STATES
in the union allow “constitutional carry,” the right to carry a firearm without a permit or license. While Tennessee claims to have constitutional carry, its constitution places a “but” in that claim.
A recent case in Tennessee Chancery Court asks whether the existence of two laws restricting someone’s ability to bear arms is constitutional or not.
d ueling c alls for Judgment
Several plaintiffs, all residents of the State of Tennessee, filed suit against the governor, attorney general, and other state officials claiming that two state laws are violations of the Constitution of the State of Tennessee.
Plaintiffs seek declaratory relief from Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1307(a) (the “Going Armed Statute”) and Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1311(a) (the “Parks Statute”); these are both statutes that Plaintiffs argue make it a crime to carry a firearm in a public place in violation of Article I, Section 26 of the Tennessee Constitution.
— Hughes, et al. v. Bill Lee, et al.
The defendants, however, argue that the suit shouldn’t even be heard, challenging whether the Court has the authority to grant such relief.
Both sides filed motions for summary judgment in their favor. A hearing was held by a three-judge panel of The Chancery Court for the State of Tennessee, 28th Judicial District, Gibson County.
f acts of the c ase
Let’s start with the facts.
At least one of the individual Plaintiffs desires to carry a firearm in Tennessee’s public parks, greenways, public recreational areas,
and other locations enumerated in Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1311(a).
— Hughes, et al. v. Bill Lee, et al.
There are two statutes in the Tennessee Code Annotated that are at question in this case. The first, §39-17-1311, is titled Carrying weapons on public parks, playgrounds, civic centers and other public recreational buildings and grounds, or “Parks” for short.
(a) It is an offense for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, with the intent to go armed, any weapon prohibited by § 39-17-1302(a), not used solely for instructional, display or sanctioned ceremonial purposes, in or on the grounds of any public park, playground, civic center or other building facility, area or property owned, used or operated by any municipal, county or state government, or instrumentality thereof, for recreational purposes.
— Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1311
There are many problems with these statutes. First, the “intent to go armed.” Why would someone be carrying an arm if they didn’t intend to go armed? Could someone simply say “Oops, I didn’t mean to carry a firearm?”
The second is why would a statute prohibit the carrying of certain prohibited weapons only in certain locations?
The law bans someone from possessing, transporting or selling explosives, machine guns, knuckles and other specific weapons.
At first glance, it appears that the prohibited weapons do not include firearms. However, as I understand it, the parks statute has been used to charge people for carrying otherwise lawful weapons in parks.
The third problem, and the one the court focused on, is the fact that this law effectively claims that public areas are not subject to
The Court . . . flatly rejected the thenAttorney General’s view that the Legislature was empowered by the second clause of Article I, Section 26 “to prohibit absolutely the wearing of all and every kind of arms, under all circumstances.” . . . “To this we can not give our assent. The power to regulate, does not fairly mean the power to prohibit; on the contrary, to regulate, necessarily involves the existence of the thing or act to be regulated.” . . . “But the power is given to regulate, with a view to prevent crime. The enactment of the Legislature on this subject, must be guided by, and restrained to this end, and bear some well defined relation to the prevention of crime, or else it is unauthorized.”
— Hughes, et al. v. Bill Lee, et al.
How did the legislature square this circle? The Constitution of Tennessee says you have a right to keep and bear arms, but the legislature can regulate the wearing of arms to prevent crime. But the legislature decided to make it a crime to carry a firearm or club? This is one of the reasons why I say Tennessee does not have Constitutional carry, because carrying a firearm is a crime, to which the Tennessee legislature has provided certain exceptions. Based on these facts, plaintiffs have avoided exercising their rights in the areas the TCA claims to prohibit. Not because they believe these statutes are valid, but to avoid being detained, issued a citation, or potentially arrested. They filed suit to be relieved of these restrictions on their rights.
c onstitutionality of s tatutes
The court pointed out that the Constitution of Tennessee has protected a person’s right to keep and bear arms since the first version was created in 1796, and that Tennesseans insisted on that right to prevent the abuses that occurred in England.
The evil that was produced by disarming the people in the time of James II was that the king, by means of a standing army quartered among the people, was able to overawe them, and compel them to submit to the most arbitrary, cruel, and illegal measures. Whereas, if the people had retained their arms, they would have been able, by a just and proper resistance to those oppressive measures, either to have caused the king to respect their rights, or surrender the government into other hands.
— Hughes, et al. v. Bill Lee, et al.
The court looked at much of the legal tradition around Article I, Section 26 of the Tennessee Constitution, including the power of the General Assembly under it.
c ourt’s d ecisions
Which leads us to the court’s decisions about these motions for summary judgment:
This Court holds that the Going Armed Statute violates the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and therefore also violates Article I, Section 26 of the Tennessee Constitution.
Accordingly, we conclude the Parks Statute violates the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and therefore also violates Article I, Section 26 of the Tennessee Constitution.
— Hughes, et al. v. Bill Lee, et al. c onclusion
The court ordered Tennessee’s Going Armed Statute and Parks Statute “unconstitutional, void, and of no effect.”
What I find interesting is not that this court claimed that the statutes violate the Tennessee Constitution not because of the language of that Constitution, but because it violated the Constitution of the United States. This brings up a conflict between these two documents that I have been talking about for years here in Tennessee.
By claiming to place additional restrictions on a right protected by the Constitution of the United States, the State of Tennessee is violating the Supremacy Clause. This Constitution . . . shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, — U.S. Constitution, Article VI, Clause 2 Since these judges are required to follow the U.S. Constitution above even their state constitution, its decision in favor of the plaintiffs is both legal and correct. I only wish that the conflict between the two constitutions was part of the decision.
PHOTO COURTESy OF S OMACHI KONGKAMSRI / PE x ELS
By JennIfer durand
Who Are We Becoming?
On Any GivEn SATuRDAy in Murfreesboro, you can see it happening. Families fill the Square. Students from MTSU linger over coffee. Church and civic volunteers unload supplies for a community drive. A business owner unlocks their door to serve customers. Parks are filled with teams united to play, people walking or reading a book. These are the moments to pay close attention to when you want to become part of a community, body of people, or to simply feel like you belong. Life can seem like it’s moving so fast as you work to grow or become what you envision. How do you keep things steady as you grow, and what choices do you make that support “becoming” who you want to be?
It can be hard to know who to connect with, or to get to the point where you feel like you fit in. If there is one obstacle to deeper community, it’s not politics or growth, it’s hesitation: reluctance to attend the event alone, speak up in a meeting, or introduce yourself to a neighbor. Most of the people around you feel the same insecurity and are unsure of how to fit in without embarrassing themselves in the process. The first step to gaining a deeper connection can feel uncomfortable. When you move past that initial fear, however, the connections we all long for are on the other side.
“Faith communities here are showing that belonging isn’t automatic, it’s built.”
— Pastor Rachel Thompson
That quote is true of any community that is growing, even your family. Relationships are not automatic, they are built. Time is invested. Showing up is essential. Being a part of what is happening builds your confidence and gives you the faith that you belong. So the real barrier is the fear of showing up.
After much reflection, my personal word mantra for 2026 was “showing up.” After a several-year hiatus from community and personal events due to a family member’s ill health, I felt disconnected from the life I had prior to that. As his health got better my habits had already developed into not attending events and being more isolated from community. In those months and years the life pace slowed down and it was easier to see who I was during that time. I still ran my business and did the things that needed to be done, but I also became a caregiver and was happy to know I was able to make someone else’s life better by showing up and being available.
“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.”
—
Herman Melville
As life shifted again I had to identify why I felt disconnected from my community and friendships. I realized that I wasn’t able to show up during those years, and that showing up is a vital and necessary part of building and maintaining
that sense of belonging. I wasn’t suffering, but I wanted to reconnect in more meaningful ways with those I cared about. All of this happens internally while life continues to grow fast all around. Showing up for what is important to you and others is the key ingredient to answer the question “who are you becoming?”
“Do not wait; the time will never be ‘just right.’ Start where you stand.” — Napoleon Hill
So it doesn’t matter if you’re just starting to spread your wings or you are restarting. It’s still the same process. Small, consistent steps that will connect with the next small step. Building blocks. The skyscraper started with one brick connected to another brick and so on. It took time to become the finished building with all the comfort, space, and security provided for the people who inhabit it.
Another comparison is Murfreesboro, which stands at an uncommon moment: large enough to matter, small enough to connect, growing enough to shape the future, rooted enough to protect what matters. Growth will happen whether we act or not. But community? Community is built by people who show up. On the other side of that first brave step—past the fear of putting yourself out there—are connections deeper than most of us realize we’re longing for. The future of Murfreesboro, or of your own life, will not be decided by how fast the growth happens. It will be decided by how deeply we connect. And that is something every one of us can help build.
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued.” — Brené Brown
A final thought to share. I started family dinner night. Once a week. Same day, same time. I got no resistance from any member of the family. We all showed up to the first one. Then the next one. Homemade meals, sitting around the kitchen table. No cellphones or outside distractions. No restaurant noises. Just intentional time with each other. We have always been close, but without intentional connection I could feel our deeper bonds drifting. I had previously experienced a family dinner night as a guest of my brother and his wife. She initiated the family dinner experience and I loved how I felt as a guest at their table. I thought, “I am going to do this with my family, too.” It has made all the difference in how we show up for each other. So, while life continues to grow fast all around, decide who you are becoming in the process and remember to lean into it with intention. Don’t hesitate to show up! You just might get more than you imagined possible.
Jennifer durand is the owner and operator of The Nurture Nook day Spa & gift Shoppe. Call 615896-7110 or visit facebook.com/nurturenookdayspa or nurturenook.com for more.
