September 2025 Murfreesboro Pulse

inside

party in the grove / music city melody / greenway north / raymond berry / business news / and more celebrating 20 years: 2006–2025 September 2025 / Vol. 20, Issue 9 / free

explore

Barfield Park Home to Mountain Bike Trails for All Skill Levels

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

food

Find Southern Pub Fare and Live Music at Boro Bourbon & Brews

Dance stomp & holler Roots Rendezvous 2025 features The Cleverlys, Jake Leg Stompers, Dewdrop Jamboree, Sept. 19–21

LOCAL • LICENSED • INSURED

sports

Tennessee Tempo Wins UPSL National Championship

 Award-Winning Service  Declutter, Donate, Recycle  Furniture, Appliances, Construction  Debris, Trash, Brush and MORE!

“We mind our P’s & Q’s when helping U!”

 Single Items to Full Property Clean-Outs

Contents

20

18

24

Features

18

roots rendezvous

in every issue

Musical tradition of Uncle Dave Macon Days brings three days of live Americana and bluegrass music, dance, crafts and community, Sept. 19–21.

20

Rocky Terrain

Barfield Mountain Bike Trails challenge riders to push themselves like champs.

24

Good shepherd children's home

Local home for kids raising funds to construct new facility, community donations support children.

26

keeping the tempo

Murfreesboro-based Tennessee Tempo wins UPSL Spring 2025 National Championship, fall season underway.

6 Events

calendar Minutes Wisely BBQ Fundraiser, White Oak Craft Fair, Oaklands Craft Fair, Smyrna Depot Days and more!

14 Sounds concerts

music notes Party in the Grove theater Music City Melody at Mills-Pate Arts Center

22 Living

Explore North Murfreesboro Greenway Trail

mr.

Murfreesboro Raymond Berry  NFL Hall of Famer and Murfreesboro resident

28 Food

30 News

business buzz The Human Bean, Jefferson’s, Layali Dubai, Demos’, Sprouts, Boro Bazaar, The Firey Pig, Krustaceans Seafood Murfreesboro Transit Center, Uncle Nearest and more!

BoroPulse.com/Newsletter

Advertising: Matthew Olson, Nneka Sparks Contributors: Josh Bowden Tiffany Boyd Jennifer Durand Delores Elliott

Paul Engel Laura Lindsay Elisha Nelson Andrea Stockard Bill Wilson

free your children Take control of your children’s schooling education Social learning theory Constitution study State sovereignty living . . . well!

Healthy habit changers

follow online /BoroPulse @BoroPulse

Publisher/Editor in Chief: Bracken Mayo

Copy Editor: Steve Morley

33 Opinion money matters Big Beautiful Bill could affect taxes

Restaurant Boro Bourbon & Brews

Sign up for the Pulse Weekly Digital Newsletter

Associate Editor: Sarah Mayo

25

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

@BoroPulse The Murfreesboro Pulse

Copyright © 2025, The Murfreesboro Pulse, 714 W. Main St., #208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. Proudly owned, operated and published the first Thursday of each month by the Mayo family; printed by Franklin Web Printing Co. The Pulse is a free publication funded by advertisers. Views expressed in the Pulse do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. ISSN: 1940-378X

714 W. Main St., Suite 208, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 • 615-796-6248

This is the time of year when, if you play your cards right, you may attend some sort of a fall festival, fundraiser at a farm venue or community gathering nearly every day.

Look to this edition of the Pulse for more! We have craft fairs, football games, pecans, poker runs, golf tournaments, rucks, meetups, competitions, gospel singing celebrations and all manner of community activities.

This year’s Friday Night Live concert series concludes Sept. 19 with Backstage Brass. Hit it up! Main Street has been knocking it out of the park with the Friday Night Live shows this year.

The Greenway Art Fest’s celebration of local creatives moves to Cannonsburgh this fall.

Otherwise, the area has Roots Rendezvous, the championship Tennessee Tempo team, a great network of mountain bike trails, and much more.

Thanks for reading the Pulse! Keep on keeping up with our editions and articles, supporting our mission and local cause. And thanks to all who invest their energy and marketing budgets into the Pulse—a unique and independent local outlet. It takes a lot of time and money to keep the Pulse rolling off the press and on racks, and it provides a valuable way to communicate with the good folks of Murfreesboro for those who use it to advertise their brand or event.

A happy birthday to young Beckett this month. Time flies. May all the hedgehogs know that September is the month of his birth and rejoice with us. I have been enjoying riding scooters and jumping on the trampoline and watching classic rasslin’ with you lately, my boy.

And meanwhile the Mayos have the Chef (big Bracken Jr.) in the kitchen whipping up butter chicken, eggs benedict, smash burgers, homemade tortillas, crepes, enchiladas, fried rice and biscuits. We enjoy the advantages of having someone exploring world cuisines in the household.

Discover new music, create something, explore the Greenway—or, just take a moment of stillness and watch the leaves flutter to the ground.

Push yourself, then relax.

Whatsoever it is that ye may do—cooking, printing Tshirts, delivering newspapers, selling houses, cleaning houses, cutting hair, preparing taxes, serving coffee or laying floors—do it excellently, all to the glory of God. We’ll dedicate this edition and month to the memory of the Hulkster.

Hulk Hogan was a real American, an inspiration who imparted to more than one little boy in the 1980s the powerful message that they have the potential to triumph over even seemingly insurmountable challenges if they approach them with a recklessly wild level of determination, confidence and enthusiasm—a barely-controlled bundle of energy, bordering on insanity, but laser-focused on accomplishing the task at hand.

“Whatcha gonna do . . . !”

Anything is possible for all who train, say your prayers, take your vitamins and believe in yourselves.

May you be filled with courage, not a spirit of fear.

Peace, Bracken Mayo Publisher/Editor in Chief

events calendar ››› September 2025 ››› by Andrea STOCKARD Sept. 5–7

tion is set for Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 7–8 p.m. at the Wilderness Station in Barfield Crescent Park (401 Volunteer Rd.).

Chapter member Joe Campbell will give a presentation on his sailing trip in 2019 from the Chesapeake Bay to the British Virgin Islands as well as his visit to San Juan, Puerto Rico. He sailed 1,500 miles on a 40-foot Leopard Catamaran from Gloucester Point, Virginia, to Tortola, British Virgin Islands. The presentation includes tales of fishing, sailing through storms and wildlife encounters. Anyone is welcome to attend. Learn about the exciting hikes and events the association has planned. Visit tennesseetrails.org/event/ murfreesboro-chapter-meeting, text 570877-2150 or email lynnmacrosser@gmail. com or for more information.

Murfreesboro Home Expo The Murfreesboro Home Expo will be held Friday through Sunday, Sept. 5–7, at Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville (1200 Conference Center Blvd., Murfreesboro).

See the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living and more while meeting with local contractors and remodeling experts. There is no cost to attend. The expo runs from noon–6 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. on Sunday. Those interested in exhibiting can call 423-910-HOME. For more information, visit murfreesborohomeexpo .com or email info@nationwideexpos.com.

Sept. 5 ’90s Disney Movie Trivia Night Come out for a ’90s Disney Trivia Movie Night at 7 p.m. at Middle Ground Brewing Company on Friday, Sept. 5. Trivia is completely free to play, family-friendly, and the top three teams receive gift cards.

For more information, find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook or visit middlegroundbrew.com.

Sept. 6 Gospel Singing at Mt. Hermon baptist The Southridge Gospel group will perform at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church (2433 Mount Herman Rd.) on Saturday, Sept.

6, at 4 p.m. The community is invited to attend this free singing. For more information, call Mt. Hermon at 615-893-4885.

Sept. 6 Christine Poythress Book Signing Linebaugh Public Library (105 W. Vine St.) hosts local author Christine Poythress for a book signing on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The author will be signing and selling copies of her book Dharma’s Dance. In the book, she traces her journey in search of love or a Mr. Right from the repressive South to her free-loving 20s in 1970s California and then to New York, culminating with the wisdom of age. This collection is at once serious, filled with wit and grounded in the mystical. Poythress left the Deep South in 6 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Sept. 9

Sept. 6 Oaklands Fall Art & Craft Fair Shop goods from over 50 local artisans and vendors at the second annual Fall Art & Craft Fair at Oaklands Mansion (900 N. Maney Ave.) on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The event also includes local food vendors, games, crafts, a scavenger hunt, door prizes, live music, a community outreach area and gift bags for the first 100 guests. It is free to attend; $5 to tour Oaklands Mansion. Proceeds from the fair will help fund the maintenance and preservation of the historic mansion. Parking is located at Oaklands Park and overflow parking is street-side.

For more information, visit oaklandsmansion.org/fall-art-and-craft-fair or find the Oaklands Mansion 2nd Annual Fall Art & Craft Fair event on Facebook.

1970 and landed in California. For most of her life, she sang professionally—folk music, American Songbook standards, country and love songs from “Your Cheatin’ Heart” to Puccini arias. For more information on the Sept. 6 event, visit rclstn.org or call 615-893-4131.

Sept. 7 Minutes Wisely BBQ Fundraiser Minutes Wisely, a local organization that supports veterans, first responders and Gold Star families—specifically with the aim of combating veteran suicide, depression, PTSD and mental illness—holds a BBQ Fundraiser at Single Tree BBQ (2805 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Sunday, Sept.

7, to support two military families whose young sons are facing serious medical battles. From 4–8 p.m., enjoy BBQ plates, live music, raffles and more, with

all proceeds directly helping the families to cover travel expenses, lodging and experiences aimed at lifting the spirits of the children. D.J. Daniels is the son of a U.S. Navy veteran and is currently battling brain and spinal cancer. Proceeds will help send him and his father to Michigan, where D.J. will be honored as an honorary police officer in the cities of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights and attend a Detroit Lions game. The second child is local to the Murfreesboro area and is the son of a U.S. Army veteran. He is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Visit minuteswisely.org or call 313-909-0128 for more information.

Sept. 9 Tennessee Trails Association The monthly meeting of the Murfreesboro chapter of the Tennessee Trails Associa-

Living Sent All are welcome to attend the September 2025 Living Sent Murfreesboro meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. at Wilson Bank & Trust (3110 Memorial Blvd.). Woodrow Coen, the founder of Ardor Logic, Inc., will speak, and Jim Trasport will tell his God story. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Ceranos Catering. Please park on the perimeter of the parking lot out of respect for the hosts. RSVP for Living Sent by emailing bob.williams@alhambrapartners.com.

Sept. 9 and 23 Boro Books n Brews The Boro Books n Brews book club meets Tuesdays Sept. 9 and 23 at 7 p.m. at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.). For more information, visit middlegroundbrew.com, or find Middle Ground Brewing Co. or the Boro Books and Brews group on Facebook.

Sept. 11 Cpl. Isaac Diaz Memorial Golf Outing Minutes Wisely, a local organization that supports veterans, first responders and Gold Star families—specifically with the aim of combating veteran suicide, depression, PTSD and mental illness—holds its second annual CPL Isaac Diaz Memocontinued on page 7

continued from page 6 rial Golf Outing at Champions Run Golf Course in Rockvale on Thursday, Sept.

11. This event honors the life and sacrifice of U.S. Army Corporal Isaac Diaz, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan.

The golf scramble serves as both a tribute to Diaz and a fundraiser for Minutes Wisely, supporting the nonprofit’s growing mission to provide meaningful experiences for veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. Golfers, sponsors and community members are invited to come together. For more information, visit minuteswisely.org or call 313-909-0128.

rich history, enduring legacy and evolving future of the Marine Corps. There will be performances by Royce Mosley, 3 Chord, Delnora and others. This year the Red Letter Awards will be held at the Dorethe and Clay Tucker Theater (615 Champion Way) on Saturday, Sept. 13, with the Gold Carpet at 4 p.m. and the Awards Show at 6 p.m. Visit redletterawards.com for more information.

Sept. 13 Emotions at Play at Discovery Center

Sept. 11 Charity Chopped Charity Chopped in the ’Boro is coming up Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. at Hop Springs.

Three teams of chefs will face off in the cooking competition with proceeds split between Rutherford County Area Habitat For Humanity, Amelia’s Closet and Second Harvest Food Bank. Tickets for Charity Chopped in the ’Boro are $30, which includes a plate of food from Tennessee Craft Butcher, beer from Cedar Glade Brews and a bag of kettle corn. Find tickets for Charity Chopped in the ’Boro on Eventbrite, or for more information, contact Shannon Wheeler at 615-417-6640.

Sept. 12 Poker Night for domestic violence Center Pre-purchased tickets are strongly encouraged to ensure a seat at a special poker night at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Friday, Sept. 12. All proceeds from ticket sales support the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center of Rutherford County (dvsacenter.org); purchase tickets in the taproom or online. Check-in begins at 6:30 p.m. for players to get chips, order food and beverage, and get settled at a table. Games begin promptly at 7 p.m. Once games begin, bartenders will provide periodic table-service. Register at middlegroundbrewingcompany.ticketspice. com/september-poker-night-for-charity.

Sept. 13 A Wig’s Story Pop-Up Market Help support A Wig’s Story at its fundraising pop-up market on Saturday Sept.

13, from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. at Slick Pig BBQ (1920 E Main St.). Shop local vendors for handmade and vintage items while enjoying sweet treats, music, games and plenty of Southern hometown vibes at

Sept. 13 and 14 White Oak Craft Fair The work of over 75 craft artisans will be available for purchase as The White Oak Craft Fair returns for its 35th year on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. on the banks of the East Fork Stones River near the Arts Center of Cannon County (1424 John Bragg Hwy., Woodbury). Shop from top craft artists throughout the region selling their original textiles, jewelry, woodcarving, metalwork, pottery, photography, chairs, baskets, ironwork, stained glass and more. All of the artisans were chosen for their excellence and integrity by a selection panel. In an age when mass production makes so many things widely available, the White Oak Craft Fair celebrates the inspiration and skill of the individual maker as well as offering an opportunity to appreciate uniqueness. Although most artisans are perennial favorites, new exhibitors join the show each year. Admission to this event is free with a $5 donation to the Cannon County Rescue Squad for supervised parking. For more information, visit artscenterofcc.com/whiteoakcraftfair. z Artisan Affair, sponsored by Slick Pig BBQ and Bombshells Hair Studio. For more information, visit awigsstory.org or call 615-907-8004.

Sept. 13

(278 Doug Warpoole Rd., Smyrna) on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 5–9 p.m. Tickets are $50; entries for the car show are $50 per car. For more information and tickets, visit wofsmyrna.com or call 615396-7404 or 615-260-5925.

Wings of Freedom Fish Fry & Classic Car Cruise-In

Sept. 13

The Smyrna Rotary Club has supported Rutherford County and the community since the club was chartered in 1971. The Wings of Freedom Fish Fry has grown into the premier fundraiser in Smyrna.

This signature event supports resources for local charities and brings the community together to honor local heroes and veterans. A list of beneficiaries can be found at wofsmyrna.com/recipients. The 2025 event honors the Tuskegee Airmen.

Enjoy fish, food, drink, classic cars and music at the Azure Corporate Flight Management Hangar at the Smyrna Airport

The Red Letter Awards show is a faithbased entertainment and arts award show featuring actors, singers, comedians and presentations. Inspiring award categories include the outreach programs of Stars of Sacrifice (veterans) and Hope Filled Mondays (suicide awareness). The show will honor local heroes Mechanic on a Mission and The Sweet Addiction. Senator Mark Pody will give these special awards to recipients. The event also celebrates the 250th Marine Corps Birthday with three distinguished Marines who have been invited to share reflections of the

 Send community event information to contact@boropulse.com

Red Letter Awards Show

The Discovery Center at Murfree Spring (502 SE Broad St.) hosts Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out, a national traveling exhibit developed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios. Opening Saturday, Sept. 13 and running through Jan. 4, this interactive exhibit invites families to explore emotions through hands-on and digital activities inspired by the hit film.

Emotions at Play features characters and themes from the acclaimed Inside Out film and encourages visitors to discover how feelings like joy, sadness, anger, disgust and fear influence memory, decision-making and imaginative play. For more information, email rdouthat@explorethedc.org or call 615-890-2300 ext. 241. Discovery Center is located at 502 SE Broad St. in Murfreesboro adjacent to the Murfree Spring wetlands. For exhibit information or to purchase tickets, visit explorethedc.org.

Sept. 14 Cornhole Tournament Benefiting Rutherford Rampage Hockey Come out to Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Sunday, Sept. 14, from 1–4 p.m. for a cornhole tournament with prizes, $5 pizzas and local beers—kid, family and dog friendly. 100 percent of ticket sales go to support the local Rutherford Rampage high school hockey team. The cost to play cornhole is $30, with gift cards for the winners. For tickets, visit buytickets.at/ middletennesseehockey/1825982.

Sept. 18 Art Club Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 4:30–6 p.m. on Thursdays Sept. 4 and 18 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 are provided. The continued on page 8 boropulse.com * September 2025 * 7

Continued from page 7 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.

Pkwy.). All Jeepers are welcome. Visit middlegroundbrew.com for more information or find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook.

Sept. 25 Barks & Bourbon

Sept. 18 The Connection Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken will host the September 2025 installment of The Connection: An Evening of Professional Networking and Business Brainstorming from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18. 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. Champy’s is located at 1290 NW Broad St.

Sept. 19 Friday Night Live On Friday, Sept. 19, the Friday Night Live community concert series returns to Murfreesboro’s Public Square with Backstage Brass. The horn band will perform from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., staged in front of the Rutherford County Courthouse and concluding Main Street Murfreesboro’s 2025 music lineup. Organizers of these free, family-friendly downtown events encourage local folks to bring lawn chairs, enjoy nearby dining, and shop locally downtown before the Friday evening shows start and the music, dancing and fun vibes begin. For more information on Main Street Murfreesboro and its 2025 concert series, visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org/friday-night-live.

Sept. 20 Hammer Down for Habitat Rutherford County Area Habitat for Humanity is excited to partner with the Uncle Dave Macon Days Roots Rendezvous Music & Arts Festival for the 17th Annual Hammer Down for Habitat Poker Run on Saturday, Sept. 20. Proceeds from the event will raise funds to build affordable housing for low-moderate income residents in Rutherford County. For the Hammer Down Poker run, riders and drivers of motorcycles and cars will meet at the Habitat office (850 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) and go on a 100-mile poker run through beautiful Middle Tennessee, picking up playing cards along the way to make winning poker hands for prizes. The run will end at Hop 8 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Sept. 27 Smyrna Depot Days Depot Days, Smyrna’s annual fundraiser dedicated to promoting local businesses and strengthening the community, is back on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Historic Smyrna Train Depot (98 Front St.). This beloved event brings together thousands of visitors for a day packed with live music, food, family-friendly activities and incredible local vendors featuring handmade crafts, boutique items, delicious treats and unique services. For more information, text 615-596-5185, visit simatn.org or find Smyrna Depot Days on Facebook.

Springs Brewery (6790 John Bragg Hwy.) for a barbecue lunch, prizes and the Roots Rendezvous Music & Arts Festival, featuring music by Whiskey Smoke. Proceeds go towards building affordable housing for area residents at Habitat’s Legacy Pointe subdivision in Murfreesboro. Habitat has built 38 homes at Legacy Pointe and has four homes under construction due for completion in the fall and winter. For more information, visit rchfh.org/hammer-down or stonesrivercarclub.com, find the 2025 Hammer Down for Habitat Poker Run event on Eventbrite or email melissa@rchfh.org.

Saturday, Sept. 20, beginning at 10 a.m. (rain or shine) to raise awareness for veteran mental health and suicide prevention in observance of Veteran Suicide Awareness Day (the following week). Participants are encouraged to bring flags and walk in solidarity with veterans. There will be a casual meet-up afterward for participants to connect and talk. Sponsors, donors and volunteers are always needed and appreciated. Email jwingnut73@gmail.com or call 931-801-9162 for more information, or find the Veterans Mental Health Awareness Walk or Ruck event on Facebook.

Sept. 20

Sept. 21

Greenway Art Festival

Cedar Glade Classic Car Cruise-In

Come out for the Greenway Art Festival and Junior Greenway Art Festival along the Greenway trail at Cannonsburgh Village on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Hosted by the Cultural Arts division of the Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department, the goal is to provide artists of all ages in the community the chance to showcase and sell their art.

Visit murfreesborotn.gov/595/greenwayart-festival for more information.

Sept. 20 Veteran Mental Health Awareness Ruck Participate in a five-mile walk or ruck at Barfield Park (697 Veterans Pkwy.) on

Shine ‘er up and drive ‘er in at the Cedar Glade Brews (906 Ridgely Rd.) classic car cruise-in on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 1–4 p.m. Car-ticipants get $3 off their tab (1 per car). Stick around for trivia at 5 p.m. There is no sign-up required and no cost to participate. For more information, visit cedargladebrews.com or find the CGB Classic Car Cruise-In event on Facebook.

Sept. 24 Jeep Crew Meetup The Rutherford County Jeep Crew has a meet-up scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort

Help support Beesley Animal Foundation at the 5th Barks & Bourbon fundraising event at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25, at Belle Meadows Farm (6241 Brown Mills Rd., Laccassas) for a night filled with bourbon tasting, small bites and live music. Businesses involved include Bardstown Bourbon Company, Green River Distilling Company, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, Old Glory Distilling Co., H.K. Young and more (vendor list is subject to change). Tickets are $65 and include admission, tastings, food, a signature glass from Bryan Nale of Primis Mortgage and an event poster by Redstone Federal Credit Union as well as other goodies from sponsors. This is a pet-friendly event; all well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome to attend with their owners. For more information, visit givebutter.com/barksandbourbon2025.

Sept. 26 4th Friday Fun*Working The monthly “fun working” event at Spread the Positive (906 Ridgely Rd.) is held the fourth Friday of every month from 5–7 p.m., presented by Reed and Associates of Primerica and Spread the Positive. The event is focused on shining a light on what’s going right and highlighting businesses making a positive impact in the community. Each month the event features a live podcast with local businesses and community leaders as well as networking and conversations, on and off the air, in and around the STP studio. There will be an on-site food truck, so grab a drink and a bite while you connect with the best in the ’Boro. For more information, find 4th Friday Fun*Working on Facebook.

Sept. 27 Pecan Festival Mark your calendars for this year’s Pecan Festival on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. at Hop Springs (6790 John Bragg Hwy.). There will be free goodie bags for the first 200 adults, a free circus (shows at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.), live music by Rockin Country Band (11 a.m.–2 p.m.), a free petting zoo, bungee trampoline, train rides, a human hamster inflatable water wheel and face painting. Shop over 150 vendors selling continued on page 10

September 7, 2025

Continued from page 8 home decor, boutique items, handmade, jewelry, woodworking, direct sales, sports jerseys, candles and of course pecans and pecan-themed items. Food trucks will be available on site. Parking is $5 and some vendors may only be able to accept cash. Visit brianna-victory-events.com for more information, or find the 2nd Annual Pecan Festival event on Facebook.

Sept. 27 Oaklands Oktoberfest Oaklands Mansion will present its annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 4–8 p.m. with a growing list of local, home and craft brewers. The Quarterlife Band and The Oomphasters will perform live onstage in front of the historic mansion. All tickets must be purchased in advance. To view the lineup of local brewers, or for tickets and more information, visit oaklandsmansion.org/oktoberfest.

Sept. 30 Paint Your Pet Paint your pet at Middle Ground Brewing Company (2476 Old Fort Pkwy.) on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m. For more information, find Middle Ground Brewing Company on Facebook.

Oct. 2 St. Clair Senior Center Annual Health Expo The St. Clair Senior Center (325 St. Clair St.) presents its annual Health Expo on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 8 a.m.– noon. The expo features more than 50 healthcare professionals offering free screenings, services and information for anyone age 60 and over. There will be multiple screenings, including hearing, vision, skin and cognitive, alongside massage therapy, games, giveaways, door prizes and more. For more information, visit murfreesborotn.gov/seniorcenter, email lgrissom@murfreesborotn.gov or call 615-848-2550.

Oct. 3 and 4 St. Luke Fall Food Festival Come out to St. Luke Catholic Church (10682 Old Nashville Hwy., Smyrna) the weekend of Oct. 3 and 4 for its Fall Food Festival. The festivities kick off Friday, Oct. 3, with the Bourbon, Blues & Barbecue event from 6–9 p.m. Hear Big Monti and blues band while enjoying food, entertainment and a bourbon tasting. Tickets for this Friday event are $25 per person and are available for purchase at the church during office hours. The 10 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

festival continues Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. with an International Fall Food Festival featuring Latin American, Cajun, Filipino and Italian food and more alongside a beer garden and silent auction. The fest also includes a raffle, classic cars and a Kids Zone featuring inflatables and Skittles the Clown. For more information, visit saintlukesmyrnatn.com.

Through Oct. 4 Soles4Souls Shoe Drive Milestone Chiropractic is partnering with Soles4Souls for a shoe drive aiming to collect 10,000 pairs of new and used shoes. New or gently used shoes are welcome, including men’s, women’s, children’s, athletic, casual, dress, boots, etc.

Once the 10K mark is hit, Soles4Souls will donate 100 pairs of brand-new shoes to Isaiah 117 House in Rutherford County, in sizes that they need to outfit children who are just entering foster care.

Soles4Souls takes the donated shoes and ships them around the world to microentrepreneurs, who will purchase them and resell them so that they can support their families. Soles4Souls also donates shoes to inner-city kids in need throughout the U.S. Liz Leigh Bridal Studio has promised to donate a pair of new shoes for every gown they sell during the drive. The shoe drive runs through Oct. 4. Donate shoes at Milestone Chiropractic (611 N. Maple St.). For more information, call 615-3968482, visit soles4souls.org or email milestonefamilychiro@gmail.com.

Through Oct. 15 Cookin’ to Build Bowl Painting Have fun painting a bowl for this year’s Cookin’ to Build, benefiting the Rutherford County Area Habitat for Humanity, through Oct. 15. Visit Color Me Mine at The Avenue (2615 Medical Center Pkwy., #1520) and have a bowl-painting party with family, friends or co-workers.

Purchase your bowl and Cookin’ to Build ticket there. The $30 ticket includes the bowl painting, tote bag and Cookin’ to Build event ticket, which will get participants all-you-can-eat chili, soup, stew and gumbo plus desserts and drinks the day of the soup-themed fundraiser event, Saturday, Nov. 1, on the Murfreesboro Public Square. Please let Color Me Mine know in advance if you have a large group wanting to paint bowls. Contact the studio by calling 615-893-5556. Funds raised help Habitat for Humanity raise money to build more affordable homes for local low-moderate income families. For more continued on page 12

123 SE Broad

615.624.7072 TNAXEANDSMASH.COM

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.

Continued from page 10 information, visit rchfh.org/cookin-to-build or find the 2025 Cookin’ to Build event on Eventbrite.

Mondays Monday Night History The Patriot Institute presents free Monday Night History classes every Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken (1290 NW Broad St.). Classes started back with the Greek City-States, have progressed through Greece, Rome, the Middle Ages, the Pilgrims, the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the history of money, transportation and other topics.

The 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.

Tuesdays After-School Climbing Join the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) on Tuesdays Aug. 12, 19 and 26 from 4–6 p.m. to climb on the indoor rock wall and challenge yourself. Climbers must weigh at least 50 pounds and wear closedtoed shoes and clothing appropriate for climbing. The cost to participate is $2.

All ages are welcome; walk-up guests are welcome. For more information, email soac.group@townofsmyrna.org or call 615-459-9710.

12 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Tuesdays & Fridays Rutherford County Farmers’ Market The Rutherford County Ag Extension hosts the 50th anniversary season of its producer-only farmers’ market in the indoor/open-air community center at Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) from 7 a.m.–1 p.m. every Tuesday and Friday from May 9 through Oct. 31.

Market vendors hail from over a dozen Middle Tennessee counties and sell a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, baked and canned goods, flowers, plants and more. The Master Gardeners of Rutherford County are available from 9 a.m.–noon in the demonstration garden for questions and tours. For more information, visit rutherford.tennessee.edu/farmers-market or call 615-898-7710.

Wednesdays Wild Wednesday Join SOAC staff each week on Wednesdays at the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center (100 Sam Ridley Pkwy. E.) from 4:30–5:30 p.m. to discover something wild about the natural world. Meet a SOAC animal or enjoy a nature-based activity each week; weekly topics are posted at townofsmyrna.org/departments/smyrna_ outdoor_adventure_center. There is no cost to participate. All ages are welcome.

Fridays C3 Networking

C3 is an open networking group for local business professionals at Achieve Entrepreneur and CoWorking Center (1630 S. Church St.) held on Fridays from 8:30–10:30 a.m. The mission is to build relationships, connect local businesses with potential clients, support each other’s professional growth and educate people on how to participate in the local community. Complimentary coffee and snacks are provided. For more information, find Prohibition Home Brewing on Facebook.

Fridays Friday Night Market Come out to River Rock Baptist Church, 2248 State Hwy 99, for Middle Tennessee’s largest weekly food truck festival and local shopping event featuring food, fun and community every Friday through the end of September from 5–9 p.m.

Enjoy food from authentic Jamaican dishes to wood-fired pizza to Thai selections to fruit tea—food trucks change weekly. Shop local and discover unique finds from small businesses and artisans while appreciating the music, entertainment and community atmosphere.

Vendor applications are available. There is no cost to attend and parking is free.

For more information, find the Friday Night Market in the BORO & Food Truck Festival 2025 event on Eventbrite or visit fnmitb.square.site.

Saturdays Saturday Market Main Street Saturday Market continues on the Murfreesboro Public Square every Saturday from 8 a.m.–noon from May 3 through Oct. 25. Spend the day with real farmers, real food and real community and find a wide variety of produce, locally raised meats, fresh breads and pastries, mushrooms, honey, soaps and lotions, sauces, jams and more. This year features the introduction of Market Loyalty cards. Pick up your card at the Main Street Market tent and get a weekly stamp for your purchases.

Three weeks’ worth of market stamps enters you into a monthly Market Basket drawing. For more information, visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org or find Murfreesboro Saturday Market on Facebook.

Saturdays Smyrna Depot Market Carpe Artista presents the Smyrna Depot Farmers Market in partnership with the Town of Smyrna from 8 a.m.–noon at the Historic Smyrna Front Street Depot District (98 Front St.) every Saturday from May 17 through Sept. 20. Visit

carpeartista.com/farmers-market or call 615-984-4038 for more information.

Saturdays Movies Under the Stars The stars aren’t fading just yet—the movie magic continues with Movies Under the Stars every Saturday at sundown through Oct. 18 at Fountains at Gateway (1500 Medical Center Pkwy.). Families can bring a blanket and enjoy the free show. The movie schedule includes: Sept. 6: Ratatouille Sept. 13: The Princess Diaries Sept. 20: Rio Sept. 27: Luck Oct. 4: Aladdin Oct. 11: Moana Oct. 18: Frozen

Saturdays Coffee & Conversation The Rutherford County Historical Society has been preserving and promoting Murfreesboro’s local history since 1971.

The RCHS 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, outdoor, peer-led workouts for men.

The free weekly workout 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 for workouts at Cedar Grove Elementary (354 Chaney Rd., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays; at Thurman Francis Arts Academy (221 Todd Ln., Smyrna) at 5:30 a.m. on Thursdays; and at Stewarts Creek High School (301 Red Hawk Pkwy., Smyrna) at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. Weekly workouts are rain or shine, hot or cold. For more information, visit f3murfreesboro.com. boropulse.com * September 2025 * 13

concerts

Live Music in middle tennessee

Wed, 9/3

Thurs, 9/18

Boro Bourbon & Brews Blues Jam with Jasco Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Sharon & Dave

Thurs, 9/4

Boro Bourbon & Brews Scott Hogue

Fri, 9/5

Boro Bourbon & Brews Big Saxy Blues Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Cedar Glade Brews Vagabond Train Happy’s Sports Lounge Jacy & Cory Heroes Den The Fog Band Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers

Sat, 9/6

Boro Bourbon & Brews Southbound Crows Carmen’s Taqueria Jeff Lysyczyn Grindstone Cowboy Marci Mitchell Hank’s Honky Tonk Zach Neil Band Heroes Den Roland Justice; Jeff Caron Middle Ground Brewing Co. Baurkli; Stones River Revival Pop’s Bar & Grill Sharon & Dave Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Blind Justice

P u ls e

Pi c k backstage brass

friday, 9/19 @ murfreesboro Public square Backstage Brass will play the final installment of this year’s Friday Night Live series the evening of Friday, Sept. 19, filling downtown Murfreesboro with rich brass arrangements of classic pop songs.

The 12-piece Middle Tennessee powerhouse pays tribute to the great horn bands, performing works by Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire, Tower of Power, Blood Sweat & Tears, Toto, Huey Lewis and the News, Steely Dan and others.

The Sept. 19 show kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on the Murfreesboro Public Square. Friday Night Live shows are open to all ages and are free for the community to attend.

Visit mainstreetmurfreesboro.org/friday-night-live for more information on the Friday Night Live concerts and other Main Street Murfreesboro projects.

Thurs, 9/11

Boro Bourbon & Brews Carson Mac

Fri, 9/12

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Keith Sorrels, Gyuhee Kim Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Boro Bourbon & Brews Level 77 Front Street Pub Roland Justice Happy’s Sports Lounge Rubiks Groove Heroes Den Nick Jackson; The Tune Twisters Grindstone Cowboy Open Mic Night MTSU Wright Music Building Adam Clark; David Zerkel Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers Woodsviking Barbershop Jeff Lysyczyn

Tues, 9/9

Sat, 9/13

Sun, 9/7

Boro Bourbon & Brews Gus Page Trio Hop Springs Da Jam Band

Mon, 9/8

Boro Bourbon & Brews Kylie Brown

Wed, 9/10

Boro Bourbon & Brews Pepper Brooks Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Sharon & Dave

Boro Bourbon & Brews Tony Castellanos; Lisa Law Grindstone Cowboy Thomas Heath Heroes Den Glen Wagner; Dueling Pianos

14 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Middle Ground Brewing Co. Muddy Boots Pop’s Bar & Grill Sharon & Dave Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Tony and the Attitude

Sun, 9/14

Big Daddy’s Handlebar Rising Up Angry; Tennessee Blues Mob; Evil Twin; Hammerhead; Friend or Foe; Pull Boro Bourbon & Brews Nick Bentley Hop Springs Da Jam Band

Mon, 9/15

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 9/16

Boro Bourbon & Brews T.J. Powers

Wed, 9/17

Boro Bourbon & Brews Bronwen Fair Hilton Garden Inn Smyrna Jeff Lysyczyn Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Sharon & Dave

 full calendar online at

boropulse.com/calendar

Boro Bourbon & Brews Carter Elliott MTSU Wright Music Building MTSU Jazz Ensembles

Shannon McCue MTSU Wright Music Building Francesca Arnone Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Sharon & Dave

Fri, 9/19

Thurs, 9/25

Boro Bourbon & Brews Tony Hartman; Hammbone Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Cedar Glade Brews Stones River Revival Grindstone Cowboy Dan Radin Happy’s Sports Lounge Haden Carpenter Heroes Den Scott Hogue; Cary & Sherrie Lynn murfreesboro civic Plaza Roland Justice Murfreesboro Public Square Backstage Brass Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers

Sat, 9/20

Boro Bourbon & Brews Eden Storm Cedar Glade Brews Line Dance Lessons Grindstone Cowboy Cay Aliese Heroes Den Casey Gerhardt; Jeff Caron Band Middle Ground Brewing Co. Blank Page Duo MTSU Wright Music Building Matt Lund Pop’s Bar & Grill Sharon & Dave Smyrna VFW Post 8422 In Cahoots

Sun, 9/21

Boro Bourbon & Brews Andru Jamison Hop Springs Da Jam Band MTSU Wright Music Building Double Reed Day

Mon, 9/22

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Paul Hanson Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 9/23

MTSU Wright Music Building Wind Ensemble Concert

Wed, 9/24

Boro Bourbon & Brews

Boro Bourbon & Brews Delyn Christian Carmen’s Taqueria Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building Stones River Chamber Players

Fri, 9/26

Boro Bourbon & Brews Doc Flannel Band Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn Cedar Glade Brews John Ford with Sam Rorex and Friends Happy’s Sports Lounge BlueAshes Heroes Den The Revenue Man; Dueling Pianos Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Shane and the Money Makers

Sat, 9/27

Boro Bourbon & Brews Tony Castellanos; Dueling Pianos Carmen’s Taqueria Jeff Lysyczyn Heroes Den Delyn Christian; Tony & Steve McComb Middle Ground Brewing Co. Jimmie Anderson Band MTSU Wright Music Building Angel Birchfield Pop’s Bar & Grill Sharon & Dave

Sun, 9/28

If You Go Boro Bourbon & Brews 124 N. Maple St.

Bad Daddy’s Handlebar 2601 E. Main St.

burger bar

1850 Old Fort Pkwy.

carmen’s taqueria

206 W. Northfield Blvd.

CEDAR GLADE BREWS 906 Ridgely Rd.

front street Pub

104 Front St., Smyrna

Grindstone cowboy

115 N. Main St., Eagleville

hanks honky tonk

2341 Memorial Blvd.

happy’s sports Lounge 302 W. Main St.

Hilton Garden Inn

2631 Highwood Blvd., Smyrna

heroes den

1257 NW Broad St.

Hop Springs

6790 John Bragg Hwy.

Middle Ground Brewing Co.

2476 Old Fort Pkwy.

MTSU WRight Music Building

Boro Bourbon & Brews Steven Gary Hop Springs Da Jam Band MTSU Wright Music Building Greater Nashville Euphonium/Tuba Ensemble

1439 Faulkinberry Dr.

Mon, 9/29

117 Front St., Smyrna

Burger Bar Jeff Lysyczyn MTSU Wright Music Building MTSU Jazz Combo Smyrna VFW Post 8422 Randy and Friends

Tues, 9/30

Boro Bourbon & Brews Sir Anthony

Murfreesboro civic Plaza 111 W. Vine St.

Pop's bar & grill

seasons 2 bar & Grill 1733 St. Andrews Dr.

Smyrna VFW post 8422

10157 Old Nashville Hwy., Smyrna

woodsviking barber shop 15 S. Public Square

Sounds

music noteS

lauren watkins

MTSU’s Party in the Grove Pregame Concerts Return Before Every 2025 Football Home Game

the psycodelics

medium build

Wallen, and has also shared the stage with with Middle Tennessee State University Riley Green, Zach Top and Lainey Wilson while students, alumni and fans of Blue Raider football are gearing up for a 2025 full of new music, starting in store for a season full of fun, food, fellowship and with “Lose My Cool,” out now. live musical guests, as the university kicks off another round of Party in the Grove pregame tailgate events Sept. 20: Davvn is a Nashville-based pop/ before this year’s six home football games. rock band made up of lead singer McCall Bliss Party in the Grove will start two and a half hours and guitarist Mike Nuzzolo that “creates new before kickoff with the football team’s traditional nostalgic alternative pop music Raider Walk, led by coach Derek influenced by growing up in the Mason, with the Band of Blue early 2000s.”

FUN FACT and the cheer and dance teams Walnut Grove, an on hand to spur them to victory.

Oct. 8: The Stolen Faces open field between Peck Hall These events will begin at is a Nashville-based Grateful and the Cope Administra3:30 p.m. on Aug. 30 and Sept.

Dead tribute band led by bassist tion Building, has long been 20; at 4 p.m. on Oct. 8 and Oct. Christian Grizzard and a rotating a focal point on the MTSU 29; and 11:30 a.m. before the cast of musicians. campus. It got its name after Nov. 8 and Nov. 22 games.

J.H. Bayer, a custodian at Oct. 29: Medium Build is Party in the Grove will again then-Middle Tennessee State the stage name for singer-songinclude a main stage for perTeachers College, viswriter and MTSU alumnus Nick forming artists, food trucks and ited Mount Vernon, George Carpenter, now based in Nasha full slate of family activities— Washington’s home in Virville. In 2024, he released the ginia, and filled a paper bag bounce houses, face painting, album Country and the Marietta with walnuts that had fallen balloon and calligram photo EP, the latter including “Yoke,” a from trees growing when stations, tailgating and more. collaboration with former college the nation’s first president Each party will wind down 45 classmate Julien Baker. lived there.

Bayer planted minutes prior to kickoff with a the walnuts in the grove and “Follow Me to Floyd” parade.

Nov. 8: military cover the resulting trees became a band (TBA) will provide music This year’s musical source of beauty and shade for the annual Salute to Veterans throughout the years. lineup includes: and Armed Forces game.

Aug. 30: Lauren Watkins, a Nashville-based country Nov. 22: The Psycodelics is an R&B/funk music artist who has toured fairs, festivals and band that describes its music as having elements even opened stadiums for country star Morgan of funk, blues, gospel and R&B. 16 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Sounds

2025 Roots Rendezvous Lineup

 concert

Friday, Sept. 19

Dance stomp & holler

Gates Open at 3 p.m.

Opening Ceremonies (outside) Roots Rendezvous String Band (outside) Stones River Bluegrass (outside) Dewdrop Jamboree (inside) Jake Leg Stompers (outside)

Saturday, Sept. 20 Gates Open at 10 a.m.

Habitat for Humanity awards (outside) Whiskey Smoke (outside) Noelle Goodin Band (outside) Delyn Christian Trio/John Prine tribute (inside) Cripple Creek Cloggers (inside) Slim Chance Band (inside) Caleb Edwards and Zack White (outside)  The Cleverlys (outside)

Sunday, Sept. 21 Gates Open at 1 p.m.

Lisa Law and the Gospel Extravaganza with special guests Mark Thomas and Melissa Wray Da Jam Band

Roots Rendezvous 2025 Features The Cleverlys, Jake Leg Stompers, Dewdrop Jamboree, Sept. 19–21

18 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

group that blends instrumental virtuosity with Southern humor. Their catalog of cover tunes performed string band-style include “Angel”

by Shaggy, “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)”

by Beyoncé, “She’s Not There” by The Zombies, “Gangnam Style” by Psy, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers, “No Diggity” by Blackstreet, “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes and “Baby” by Justin Bieber.

The Cleverlys will be joined on the bill by Delyn christian trio

photo by Sherri Johnson

Roots Rendezvous returns to Hop Springs Beer Park this year, carrying forward the musical tradition of Murfreesboro’s Uncle Dave Macon Days with three days of live Americana and bluegrass music, dance, crafts and community connection. The festival runs the full weekend of Sept. 19–21.

For decades, Uncle Dave Macon Days was a summer staple on the Murfreesboro Public Square, and later at Cannonsburgh Village, drawing fans of bluegrass, old-time music and clogging to celebrate the influence of the Grand Ole Opry’s first superstar, Rutherford County resident Uncle Dave Macon. The event, founded in 1978, became a nationally recognized competition and celebration of traditional music.

This year’s September incarnation of the festival expands that vision to include an even wider showcase of Americana, folk and gospel music and other creative performances and events.

Hop Springs will host two stages—one indoors, one outside—as well as food trucks and artisan markets Friday through Sunday Sept. 19–21.

As this year’s headliner, organizers have selected The Cleverlys, the comedy-bluegrass

Stones River Bluegrass, the Jake Leg Stompers, Whiskey Smoke, the Noelle Goodin Band, the Delyn Christian Trio (presenting a special John Prine tribute), the Cripple Creek Cloggers, Slim Chance Band, Caleb Edwards & Zack White, Lisa Law and others.

On Friday evening, fans can catch the next installment of the Dewdrop Jamboree variety show, this one featuring Grand Ole Opry member and multi-instrumentalist

Charlie McCoy—a skilled harmonica player who ties the festival directly back to the golden era of country and roots music.

This year, Roots Rendezvous partners with Habitat for Humanity, which will hold its annual Hammer Down Poker Run and Antique Car Show simultaneously with the festival. The 100-mile poker run, raising funds for home-building projects in Rutherford County, will kick off from the Habitat ReStore in Murfreesboro (850 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) at 8 a.m. on Saturday, lead its riders on a scenic tour of Middle Tennessee, and will end at Hop Springs later that day, depositing its participants in the midst of the Roots Rendezvous festivities.

Festival-goers can also browse an artisan market of handmade crafts, jewelry and regional foods, take a mule-led wagon ride, or explore the Harvest to Hoedown exhibit, which highlights rural life and the Roots of America story.

“Our goal with Roots Rendezvous has always been to unite music lovers, artisans and community groups in a celebration of Southern heritage,” said festival director Gloria Christy. “This year, teaming up with Habitat for Humanity brings an even deeper purpose: combining our love of music with hands-on community building. We can’t wait to see the Hop Springs landscape come alive.”

Parking is $10 per car. Hop Springs is located at 6790 John Bragg Hwy., Murfreesboro. Learn more at rootsrendezvous.com.

 theater

Mills-Pate to Host New Musical Comedy Sept. 27 About The Town Productions is set to unveil Music City Melody, a new musical comedy about the Nashville songwriter story. Written by Wally Nason, Music City Melody will premiere on Saturday, Sept. 27, at Murfreesboro’s Mills-Pate Arts Center.

In the musical, Hugh Blackburn was a legend in country music (before the whiskey, women and, well, the warden), but a writing session with the newest Taylor Swift wannabe was not his idea. He’s old-school, she’s barely out of school, but they both need to write a hit song for their careers. Watch their struggle to create a new chart-topper in this 90-minute Nashville writing session, starring Jack E. Chambers, Isabel Smith and Payton Justice.

This clash of cultures and creative crisis with old habits and new heartaches—just what you need for a great country tune— should have audiences laughing out loud.

Music City Melody plays at the Mills-Pate Arts Center (7120 Old Nashville Hwy.) at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 27.

The opening Middle Tennessee tour of the

new production will also include two Oct. 18 shows at the Arts Center of Cannon County, as well as stops at Playhouse 615 in Mt. Juliet Oct. 4 and 5, Jenkins Church in Nolensville on Oct. 26 and the Williamson County Performing Arts Center in Franklin on Oct. 30.

Wally Nason serves as the artistic and managing director of About The Town Productions. Since 2009 he has composed 20 original, family-friendly musicals—performed in community theaters, performance venues, high school auditoriums and movie theaters throughout the eastern U.S.—including The National Anthem (about Francis Scott Key); A Butcher, a Baker, an Amish Homemaker; Christmas Tree Ship; Josiah for President; Rock and the Redeemer; Mennonite Girls Can Cook; Christmas in Paradise and others.

For tickets and more info, visit aboutthetownproductions.com.

wally nason

jack chambers

isabel smith

payton justice

Living

 explore

Rocky Terrain

Barfield Mountain Bike Trails challenge riders to push themselves like champions story and photos

by Ashleigh Newnes

Tucked away within Barfield Crescent Park sits a trail system that area mountain bikers respect as one of the most challenging rides in Middle Tennessee. The Barfield Mountain Bike Trails aren’t designed for high-speed laps or racking up miles.

Instead, they showcase the area’s rugged terrain with rocky climbs, tight turns and technical features that keep riders engaged from start to finish.

The trails began taking shape around 2017, thanks to the combined efforts of SORBA Mid-Tennessee (our local chapter of the Southern Offroad Bicycle Association), the City of Murfreesboro, and engineering firm Griggs & Maloney. Rather than relying on heavy machinery, the system was built entirely by hand.

Trail builder Drew Sanford spent countless hours shaping the path along with a team of dedicated individuals, turning rugged terrain into one of the region’s most respected riding spaces.

However, from the get-go, the goal was not to create a smooth, easy ride.

“In my opinion, it is one of the best, pound-for-pound, most difficult trails in Tennessee,” as SORBA Mid-TN President Matt Carver put it.

Even the so-called beginner loop isn’t exactly easy. The trail builders made it as approachable as the rocky terrain would allow, 20 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

but it still carries a technical edge.

“Don’t be afraid of the trails,” said Shawn Hill, SORBA Mid-TN vice president, “but have a healthy respect for them. Don’t throw caution to the wind.”

Riding at Barfield isn’t about piling up miles, it’s about effort.

“You cannot go to Barfield with the perspective of getting miles in,” Carver said.

Instead, the trails demand constant focus.

As Hill explained, “Barfield is the place for heart rate. You can go a tenth of a mile and your heart rate is high, and it’ll stay there.”

Trail-building volunteer Drew Bonham

agreed, noting that few places in Middle Tennessee deliver such a complete workout for both technical skill and physical endurance.

Adding to the character of the system, the loops were named after characters from the Rocky movies, a theme chosen

by Ryan Maloney. The easier loops—Mickey and Paulie—represent Rocky’s training years, while the connector trail—Yo Adrian— recalls his greatest encourager. The intermediate loops—Thunderlips and Apollo—reflect worthy opponents, and the advanced trails—Drago and Clubber Lang—stand as Rocky’s toughest battles.

The idea is that when you ride Barfield, you become Rocky yourself, progressing from training to tough opponents to champion as the difficulty rises.

The work at Barfield didn’t stop once the trails were built. Ongoing maintenance is carried out by volunteers like Andy Myers, along with others from the SORBA community who put in hours to keep the system in top shape. That same energy is fueling what’s next: a group event this fall, in partnership with MOAB Bike Shop. Riders can watch sorbamidtn.org and their social media channels for details.

For many, Barfield has earned a reputation as a true test of skill and stamina. But for those outside the cycling community, it remains a hidden gem: technical, hand-built, and steeped in character, ready for those willing to embark upon a new challenge.

Find the Barfield Mountain Bike Trails at 202 Hemlock Dr., Murfreesboro. From Highway 231, turn onto Oak Meadows Drive. Veer right onto Fieldcrest Drive. At Hemlock Drive, turn right onto a gravel road. The gate to the trailhead is about 30 yards down on the left.

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the Ocoee

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Living

 explore

If You Go North Murfreesboro

Greenway

north murfreesboro greenway central valley trailhead 1318 Central Valley Rd., Murfreesboro (off Lebanon Rd. / Hwy. 231)

Enjoy a secluded, hilly stroll along the Stones River story by Bracken Mayo | photos by sarah mayo Traveling from the Central Valley Trailhead to the Walter Hill Dam on the northern outskirts of Murfreesboro, the North Murfreesboro Greenway offers a secluded paved trail experience that winds alongside the East Fork Stones River.

Although this portion of the Murfreesboro Greenway system is not contiguous with the other longer portion of the trail network (the 10-plus mile passage known as the Stones River Trail that travels from Thompson Lane to Barfield Park, running through the heart of town), the North Murfreesboro Greenway makes a lovely, scenic, well-maintained 1.3mile trail segment of its own.

An out-and-back trip here makes 2.6 miles, quite enough of a walk for many folks looking for some outdoor exercise.

The Central Valley Trailhead, located on Central Valley Road off of Lebanon Road/ Highway 231 just north of Richard Siegel Park, features a full 18-hole disc golf course set up in the fields and woods surrounding the parking area, the second disc golf course for Murfreesboro Parks (the other is at Barfield Park). Enter the Greenway at Central Valley and trace the course of the Stones River north while traveling the recently paved path over its 22 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

1.3-mile stretch to the Walter Hill Dam. The journey is comprised of two large hills.

While the pavement is smooth, the fairly steep inclines and declines could make the trail quite a challenge for strollers, wheelchairs and young cyclists, though the North Murfreesboro Greenway would be an excellent choice for runners looking to get in some hill training. It could be a blast on a bike or scooter, but keep in mind there’s a bit of a grade.

Soon after leaving the trailhead, the path becomes shady and peaceful. Trees canopy much of the route, keeping it feeling mostly pleasant, even on a sweltering summer day as a party walks along in the shade, hearing only the hum of the bugs.

It leads uphill for a while and hikers catch some striking views of the slowly rolling Stones and the impressive rock walls on its opposite bank as they ascend quite a ways over the river. The trail dips into a valley, crosses a small bridge, and begins to climb and then descend a second hill, leading past a kudzu-shrouded embankment before the Greenway ducks underneath the fast-moving traffic of Highway 231 via a tunnel. Cars speed by overhead, many oblivious to the concealed corridor just beneath them.

Here, the trail emerges at the large parking area by the Walter Hill Dam. The dam itself is a notable feature—part of an old hydroelectric system—and the water still tumbles over it, wide and powerful.

The area above the dam was once a popular community swimming hole, but its close proximity to the Middle Point Landfill and rising concerns about contaminated water have, for many, reduced the fishing and swimming appeal.

Some locals still wade and swim above the dam—a couple of rope swings are available for those who want to take a plunge— though others who want no part of mercury poisoning perceive it as a chemical-laden cesspool to be avoided.

“Dad, I’ve never seen water that looks orange,” one 4-year-old commented on a recent visit.

Enter if you dare; approach with a healthy skepticism.

Aside from all of this, the views along the Greenway trail remain beautiful, a secluded preserve to be so close to an urban setting.

It offers an ideal spot for anyone looking to trade the traffic and bustle of city sidewalks for some quiet moments in nature, its two

hills adding a surprising bit of elevation change to the smoothly paved 1.3-mile trail.

Returning to Central Valley, if one were continue on the trail rather than exit for the parking lot (or, take a left on the trail, rather than a right, when embarking upon it from the Central Valley Trailhead parking lot), it continues on as the Twin Forks Horse Trail, maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, following the East Fork and then the West Fork of the Stones River all the way to Nice Mill Dam, nearly 17 miles in all.

There are talks of connecting Central Valley to Thompson Lane, and thus joining the North Murfreesboro Greenway to the Stones River Trail and the rest of Murfreesboro, though seemingly nothing has yet been made official on this. Future development in the region might someday link these trails within the Murfreesboro system to Sharp Springs Park, Long Hunter Park, the Smyrna Greenway system, and even Nashville, with the goal of providing a natural setting for exercise and safe access all the way from Nashville to Murfreesboro for those on bike or foot.

Find more on the Murfreesboro Greenway at murfreesborotn.gov and boropulse.com.

CALL TEAM BORO HOMES

FOR ALL OF YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS! Meredith Thomas

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615.210.4767

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Suite 7 Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615.896.4040

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The Thomas-Wilson Team teamboroabc@gmail.com | www.teamborohomes.com

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Call today for an appointment! 615-295-2782 820 N. Thompson Ln. Ste. 1-E, Murfreesboro Now also at 1982 Providence Pkwy., Ste. 255, Mt. Juliet

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Living

Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me. — Mark 9:37

SPOTLIGHT on nonprofit

Good Shepherd

Robert and LeeAnn Brown

Children’s Home

Local nonprofit to construct new facility, community donations support helping children

by Laura Lindsay

T

he Good Shepherd Children’s Home, located just outside Murfreesboro, serves as a Christian-based home and ministry for disadvantaged boys and girls. More than 1,000 children have lived at the home since it opened in 1962, and the community has fully supported it financially.

The current director of the home is Randal Graby, and Robert and LeeAnn Brown are the house parents.

The home needs to be updated, the team says, so the ministry has purchased property and is almost ready to break ground on a new home facility.

The current home is 60 years old, all concrete block, and it’s time for a new house for the children, Robert Brown said. Good Shepherd is working to construct an updated home to keep its mission going. Brown said the new property will have more land and be located further out in the county.

This will be better safety-wise and be more efficient, with lower long-term costs.

“We want to get the word out about the home,” Graby said. “When the home was 24 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

built, Murfreesboro was a very small community, and everybody knew about the children’s home. But Murfreesboro has grown so much the last 15 to 20 years that not a lot of people know we are here. We are kind of the best-kept secret in Murfreesboro.

“It’s challenging for us to show people the home. On one hand a lot of people do hear about the home and want to come see it and volunteer to help the kids, which is great.”

But the team must balance interested visitors with security and the children’s privacy.

As a result, they don’t have many volunteers within the home.

“So we are putting together a campaign for people to help us, by buying a square foot of the new building,” Brown said. “That square foot costs $150, and it will make it easy for a lot of people to get involved.”

The building project will be ongoing for the next 12–18 months, so donors could even break it down and contribute over the course of the year.

“We’ve also had people donate in other people’s names, like buying square feet for their grandchildren. And sometimes people

like to give at Christmastime,” Brown said.

“Everything we do here is just on donations, and we couldn’t do it without people who are willing to be involved.”

The total cost left to raise for the new house is about $1.47 million, which means the project needs about 9,800 people to donate the requested $150.

“We are used to doing things as we go,” Brown said. “We are breaking the cost down to where people can be involved. When we get a lot of people to do just a little bit, it can be done. Everything has been done off donations for more than 60 years now.”

Children from age 5 and up may come to live at Good Shepherd Children’s Home, and children can stay until they graduate from high school.

Rather than these children going into state custody and going into a state-run program, Good Shepherd Children’s Home—designated as a “voluntary placement home”—serves as a mediator between the family and the state.

Many of the children come to the home after struggling with the effects of poverty,

abuse or neglect, and in most cases they have just needed stability, extra love and support.

“We just love them like our own,” house mother LeeAnn Brown said. “We give them a lot of love and attention.”

It is a lot like being parents in any home, Robert said.

“We try to operate very much familystyle. We go places and do things together as a group.”

Like many area households, the Browns take the kids on family vacations to Gatlinburg and to Dollywood occasionally.

“We are very much similar to any family, just maybe more structured than another home would have to be. We have a time to get up, there’s a time to do homework, and time for showers—there is a time slated for everything,” Brown said, “taking the kids to school, helping them with homework, taking them to ball practice and games.”

The ministry moves children out of difficult situations where they have faced things they should never have to face, Graby said, and puts them in a structured environment where they have stability and can thrive.

The home traces its origin to 1962, when a child was dropped off at the doorstep of local pastor Bro. Woodrow Medlock.

“The pastor saw a need in the community for a home for children,” Graby said. “The home was—and is today—focused on helping children that are from difficult home situations. That could be a variety of different things. Maybe the parents are homeless or the parents may be having to go to jail for some reason. And the kids don’t have anywhere to go. Occasionally grandparents come to us when parents are no longer in the picture, and the kids are being raised by grandparents who can’t physically take care of them.

“We don’t take parental custody of the child. That remains with the legal guardian,” Graby said. “We take a power of attorney that allows us to make decisions for schooling, health and everything that needs decided on a daily basis.”

Fred and Martha Kemle were heads of the home for 27 years. They served as “Mom and Dad” to over 800 young people. Since Fred passed away in 1992, the home has been cared for by several couples including Mike and Sandy Glanzer, Jim and Patty Scalf, and Mike and Barb Juneau.

For more information about Good Shepherd Children’s Home and to contribute to its cause, visit gsch.net.

The

Minute

with bill wilson

Raymond Berry Notable NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame member calls Murfreesboro home With fall on the way, we are all

seeing the leaves change and there’s that autumn smell. One thing is for sure when fall arrives: football season begins.

I believe I’ve made this clear previously, but I never was much of an athlete growing up. The only athletic trophy that I ever won was a silver second-place trophy for Punt, Pass and Kick as a 10-year-old in 1976.

The competition was held over at MTSU and you were judged on how far you could throw a football down the line, how far you could punt a football down a line and how far could you kick a football down the line. So as a 10-year-old bucktoothed boy I thought I had really done something; of course, there were only four participants.

Worst-case scenario would have been fourth (and no trophy).

Now that you’ve heard about my own football prowess, here’s a connection between Murfreesboro, Tennessee and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, that I bet you didn’t know about.

Did you know that the oldest living player member of the hallowed Hall of

Fame lives right here in Murfreesboro?

I’m referring to Raymond Berry. He played as a split end for the Baltimore Colts from 1955 to 1967. With the Colts, He led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards three times and in receiving touchdowns twice, and was invited to six Pro Bowls. The Colts won back-to-back NFL Championships, including the 1958 NFL Championship Game against the New York Giants, later billed as “The Greatest Game Ever Played” in which Berry caught 12 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown.

He retired as the all-time NFL leader in both receptions and receiving yardage.

Berry played football at Southern Methodist University and really didn’t catch many passes during high school and college. Berry was selected in the 20th round of the 1954 NFL Draft by the Colts and was considered a long-shot to even make the team’s roster. Berry making it to the Hall of Fame is viewed as one of the biggest Cinderella stories ever in the NFL. According to reports, he was known for his hard work at practice and his near-per-

fect route running, making him a favorite target for superstar QB Johnny Unitas, a three-time MVP still considered as one of the sport’s greatest players. The two were known as the top passing and receiving duo of their era.

After his playing career, Berry became the New England Patriots’ head coach in 1984 and held that position through 1989, amassing 48 wins. Berry led the Patriots to Super Bowl XX following the 1985 season, though his team was defeated by the Chicago Bears 46–10.

In recognition of his playing career, Berry was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973. He is a member of the NFL 75th Anniversary Team as one of the best players of the NFL’s first 75 years, and a unanimous selection to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the best players of the NFL’s first 100 years. His number 82 is retired by the (now Indianapolis) Colts. Berry is currently the oldest living former player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

What’s so cool for me is back in 2008 I got to show Mr. and Mrs. Berry some properties here in Murfreesboro. They were moving to the area to be closer to family.

I’ll never forget standing in the front yard of a home here and asking Coach Berry what was it like catching passes from Johnny Unitas, and how he spoke to me with fervor and demonstrated a route he would run for Unitas. He was passionate

about the conversation. During the short time I got to spend with him, he was kind and approachable and answered all my questions. I remember seeing the Berrys at dinner one night a year later and he still remembered having met me.

He considers his faith to be a huge part of his life and its success, and Raymond has long been involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

At Super Bowl XLVI, Berry carried the Vince Lombardi Trophy to midfield to present it to the New York Giants, who had just defeated the New England Patriots. He was given the honor due to the game being played at Lucas Oil Stadium, the home stadium at that time of his former team, the Colts, who had moved to Indianapolis in 1984.

Berry is a living legend, a man who, because of hard work and faith, went from being drafted in the 20th round to becoming a Hall of Famer who set the pace for wide receivers and athletes in general.

Follow in his footsteps and anything is possible. He still lives here in Murfreesboro today. Thank you, Coach, for all you have done for the game of football and for the lives of those who benefited from knowing you. Now everybody go out there and make a Berry moment and, as always, do something nice for someone else. God bless!

Call Bill Wilson for your local real estate needs at 615-406-5872. boropulse.com * September 2025 * 25

photos by madi burns / tennessee tempo

Sports

Keeping the Tempo

Murfreesboro-Based Tennessee Tempo Wins UPSL Spring 2025 National Championship, Fall Season Underway

by Elisha Nelson

26 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Tennessee Tempo FC established its place in Murfreesboro sports history when it captured its first-ever United Premier Soccer League National Championship in a 1–0 win over LA10 Football Club in August.

The UPSL championship win capped a tremendous spring 2025 season for the side, during which the club posted a regular season record of 10 wins and 1 loss under the leadership of head coach Gift Ndam. From beginning to end, the Tempo demonstrated why they’ve become one of the top teams in the UPSL—a semi-professional soccer association that now boasts over 300 teams across the nation competing in its Premier Division.

Established in 2021 as Beaman United FC, the club rebranded to Tennessee Tempo in 2023, and reached the pinnacle of league play by the end of its spring 2025 season.

Before the national competition, the Tempo were first victorious in the KentuckyTennessee Conference championship, taking that July 5 match over the FC Leopards out of Bowling Green, Kentucky. The team kept on winning, earning a spot in the Southeast Region Championship match against the Miami United FC. Goalkeeper Francois Djiba was a brick wall in the game, scoreless until the 83rd minute when Belizean Latrell Middleton scored a dramatic late gamewinner to send the Tempo to the national semifinals in California.

The Tempo were then victorious in the Aug. 8 semifinals, held at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, California, versus the Chicago Nation FC, and would go on to face its toughest test yet in the national final against the defensive juggernaut LA10 FC, a team that had conceded just three goals all season.

Early on, the Tempo looked in control, with Moussa Gueye, Enil Garcia and Joe Omondi forming a defensive wall in front of

Djiba, keeping the first half scoreless.

In the final three minutes, Dominic Oduro struck an assist from Souleymane Balde into the back of the net, scoring the lone goal that secured the Tempo’s first UPSL National Championship trophy.

“It’s not always about winning a national championship,” Ndam said in a UPSL press conference. “This is about bringing people together from different parts of the planet. This is about my wife and I bringing people together for the glory of God and trusting Him.” Tennessee’s rapid evolution over its four years of existence is in large part thanks to team co-founders, Coach Ndam and former NYCFC midfielder Kwadwo Poku.

For Ndam, the championship win transcends the soccer field.

“To everyone back home—Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, whatever part of the planet you are on . . . thank you all for your love and support,” he said. “My hat also goes off to LA10 FC, what an amazing team.”

The Tempo continues to try and ignite a wave of excitement for soccer in Murfreesboro, inspiring young players and fans. With the UPSL national championship win, the Tempo has secured a spot in the 2026 U.S. Open Cup. Turnaround time is quick in the UPSL; the league holds both spring and fall seasons, with the next season already kicking off this September.

Catch the Tempo in action in Murfreesboro on Sept. 12 against the Kaistorms Football Club (out of Chattanooga) at 7 p.m. the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex Stadium, and then on Sept. 28 against the Southern Indiana FC at 6 p.m. at Siegel High School. For more on the Tennessee Tempo, which also fields academy level teams, visit tennesseetempofc.com.

presents THE

14TH

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Wine Around THE

SQUARE

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Food

The Dish  restaurant

Boro Bourbon & Brews 124 N. Maple St., Murfreesboro

More Than a Bar

Mon.: 4–11 p.m.; Tues.–Thurs.: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat.: 11 a.m.–12 a.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

615-900-1921 Bourbon glazed salmon with one side: $19; Chicken marsala: $15; Burger and fries: $14; Wings (6): $11; Philly cheesesteak: $13; 8-ounce New York Strip with one side: $20; Fried green tomatoes: $11 borobourbonandbrews.com

Boro Bourbon & Brews mixes Southern pub fare, live local music, a deep whiskey list and sports just off the Murfreesboro Square

BY BRACKEN MAYO

L

ocated just off the Murfreesboro Public Square, Boro Bourbon & Brews has quickly become a favorite downtown community spot, blending food, drink, live music and sports into one lively package. As the name suggests, BBB patrons can find an impressive selection of bourbons and whiskeys and a rotating selection of draft beers, but it’s not only about the drinks here—the corner pub also features a noteworthy food menu.

Boro Bourbon & Brews serves lunch and dinner every day (other than Monday, when it opens at 4 p.m.) and can be a great spot to grab a hot lunch downtown. Food service is generally quite quick.

The bourbon-glazed salmon makes a fantastic house favorite, displaying a sweet flavor in the sticky glaze dripping over the large, tender fish filet. Try it with the pineapple jalapeño cole slaw, which packs ample amounts of both sweet and heat.

The chicken wings are crisp, and diners can choose them coated in mild or hot Buffalo, barbecue, lemon pepper, hot honey, Bourbon glaze, Nashville hot or Carolina reaper sauces.

The burgers come hot off the grill with a signature “BBB” brand seared into the bun.

“The burgers are really good,” posted

28 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

customer Diana Watson, “and they have live music, which is a huge plus!”

Diners can dig into a range of other comforting pub fare like Philly cheesesteaks, a grilled chicken club sandwich, fried green tomatoes or chicken marsala.

“Had fried green tomatoes for the first time and, oh my gosh, they were fantastic,” another customer, Marie, said after a trip to

Boro Bourbon & Brews. “Whoever created the perfectly crispy batter they fried them in, and thought to put it together like a caprese salad—brilliant chef !”

Ashley and Rhonda McCrary and Trent and Aubrey Tolbert opened the business in 2023, and BBB has since established itself as a player in the bustling downtown Murfreesboro dining and nightlife scene.

Although it is a bourbon-and-brewsthemed establishment, BBB maintains an all-ages-welcome policy, so families can bring the kids to experience some live local music over an early evening meal when the stage lights up with live performers.

Other highlights of the dinner menu include steaks, grilled shrimp and blackened grouper; then there’s dessert. Some patrons may opt to linger a little longer following a meal with some cheesecake or chocolate cake.

Of course, those looking for Heaven’s Door Redbreast, Basil Hayden Toasted Barrel, Hillrock Rye, Calumet Farm 14-Year and various other uncommon brown waters can find them at Boro Bourbon & Brews as well.

“If you are a whiskey or bourbon fan, this is the place for you. Huge selection if you are wanting to try something new or just in the mood for a great old fashioned this is the place,” according to Grant Lichtenwalter.

“Great place to hang out and listen to live music; friendly, attentive staff.”

Boro Bourbon & Brews also offers a slate of cocktails and seltzers, as well as a rotating draft beer list.

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

Catering Available

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

“Try the pickle margarita if you’re a pickle lover,” another patron, Kendall Petersen said. “Our server was so personable and helpful! Great live music, vibes and drinks.”

The kitchen isn’t without its critiques— some guests mention they found the mac and cheese a bit mushy; others reported the fried chicken tenders were overdone.

“The drinks are fantastic; food is alright.

My burger was a bit dry and overcooked but the sweet potato fries were delicious,” as Caleb Holt put it.

Others looking for quiet conversation over dinner would likely rather not dine while live musicians perform. So if live music may disturb your desired dinner vibe, this is probably not the ideal spot.

But plenty of local folks who want to immerse themselves in the Murfreesboro music scene appreciate that BBB hosts local performers on its small stage nearly every night, while plenty of TVs simultaneously keep the sports fans occupied.

“We stayed an extra couple of hours [longer] than expected since we enjoyed the music so much,” according to Sherri

Meadows following a visit on a night when Rob and Claudia Major performed. Meadows also praised the service and food.

With a menu that ranges from wings to burgers to chicken parm, this downtown pub is more than just a bar. BBB is the kind of all-around spot that keeps Murfreesboro’s Square buzzing for anyone hunting for a casual lunch, a bourbon to sip, or a lively evening out with friends.

Whether you take your bourbon by the shot or atop some salmon, if you want to hang and soak in some live local music or just need a quick lunch, for those searching for a good burger on the Square or a casual corner pub containing a large spirits selection, great sports viewing, and a home base for live local music, Boro Bourbon and Brews has what you’re looking for.

“The location on the Square is perfection.

The open windows, the live music every day really brings a cool vibe to the Square,” Brianne Smith said. “The bartenders know how to make a great drink and the drink selections at BBB are never boring! Often you go to a bar and the food is less than stellar.

Not the case here. The food is top notch.” boropulse.com * September 2025 * 29

Around Town ’boro Business buzz

The Human Bean, Layali Dubai, Demos’, Sprouts, Uncle Nearest, Boro Bazaar, The Firey Pig BY delores elliott The Human Bean will open a Murfreesboro location on Memorial Boulevard between the Reeves-Sain Drug Store and Little Caesars Pizza. It will offer a drive-thru and will include a variety of menu options from espresso drinks to dirty sodas.

The chain has more than 180 locations nationwide and is known for serving a chocolate-covered coffee bean with each drink. Other popular menu items include frozen granitas, Bright Energy drinks, real fruit smoothies and seasonal offerings. Visit thehumanbean.com for more information.

Boro Bazaar is set to open at 131 Cason Ln.—the former Float Alchemy and Boro Health & Wellness Spa location. The new store and restaurant will feature spices, lentils, fresh produce and Indian cuisine. It is affiliated with Nashville’s Indus Kitchen.

The Boro Bazaar is expected to serve as a hub for the local community, providing access to authentic Indian ingredients and cuisine. Stay tuned to the Indus Nashville Instagram page for more information on Boro Bazaar’s offerings and expected opening date.

A sign is now up, and restaurant management expects Krustaceans SeaDemos’ Restaurant has opened a new location on Middle Tennessee State University’s campus, located in the Student Union Building food court.

It offers a local favorite to students and faculty, and will remain open Monday through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the fall semester.

Demos’ first opened in Murfreesboro in 1989, founded by father-son combo Peter and Jim Demos. The family-owned business quickly became known for combining pasta dishes with American steaks, chicken and seafood at affordable prices.

Jamey Demos—son of Peter and Kristin Demos, both MTSU alumni— will head up the new campus location.

30 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

Layali Dubai Restaurant & Lounge Experience is expected to open soon in the former Cathay building on Church Street. It will offer Iraqi and Middle Eastern cuisine. Layali Dubai will also offer weekly entertainment nights featuring top stars from the Arab, Iraqi and Kurdish music scenes, and will provide outdoor seating surrounded by elegant fountains and landmarks inspired by Iraqi history and heritage, as well as designated play areas for children. food, which offers a variety of seafood options including boiled platters, fried seafood combos, seafood macaroni and cheese, waffles and more, to open at 2858 S. Church St. during early September. Hours will be Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Firey Pig will be taking over the space long occupied by Campus Subs at 1124 Old Lascassas Rd., not far from MTSU. Scott and Lisa Wallace currently operate the Firey Pig as a food truck, specializing in

hickory smoked pulled pork, pulled chicken, wings, brisket, ribs and pork tenderloin, as well as hashbrown casserole, baked beans, biscuits and gravy, mac and cheese, cakes and pies. Find The Firey Pig on Facebook or visit thefireypig.com for updates.

Sprouts has announced that it will bring a new grocery location to Smyrna by late 2026. The new building will occupy a 23,500-square-foot anchor space at Sewart’s Landing—a 44-acre, $400 million mixed-use development on Sam Ridley

Parkway West. The development will offer retail, office, residential and hospitality spaces while enhancing Smyrna’s vibrancy and economic growth, according to a recent press release. It will also include designated spaces for medical uses, two boutique hotels with a total of 240 rooms, 10 acres of parks, walking paths and an amphitheater.

“Transformational projects like Sewart’s Landing are shaping Smyrna’s future, creating jobs, and significantly enhancing our community’s quality of life,” said Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed. “We welcome Sprouts Farmers Market and all our exciting new tenants, as this development continues to unfold.”

Sewart’s Landing also expects to host Jonathan’s Grille, City BBQ, Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, Encore Nails, Wawa, Hand & Stone, and Scissors & Scotch.

Gallagher Guitars, formerly located on Walnut Street, has announced its relocation to 331 N. Front St. Its new home, just down the street from its original location, will offer space for a larger showroom as well as a more refined shop layout and richer Gallagher experience, according to the company.

“We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support, passion, and love for handmade craftsmanship. None of this would be possible without you, our amazing players and community,” said Gallagher co-owner David Mathis in a recent release regarding the new location.

In September of 2019, Mathis acquired the company from the Gallagher family, and in 2020 he officially moved the workshop and headquarters from Wartrace to Murfreesboro. The company operated out of Wartrace for more than 50 years prior. Visit gallagherguitar.com for more information.

Barrett Firearms has announced that it will open a new local manufacturing facility. The NIOA group recently broke ground on the facility for Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus and NIOA North American Headquarters. The BMTC will be the NIOA group’s global center of excellence for firearms and advanced military weapons manufacturing and research capabilities, and will be located at 8808 Manchester Pk. on a 170-acre space, fairly close to the original headquarters where the company has operated for decades.

This marks the most significant investcontinued on page 31

The new Murfreesboro Transit Center, at 324 New Salem Hwy., opens to the public with new routes Sept. 8.

The Transit Center includes a passenger pavilion, maintenance facility and administration building. Passengers can enter the complex from Bridge Avenue, while Murfreesboro Transit employees have a separate entrance on New Salem Highway.

Amid rapid growth and traffic congestion, the new Transit Center will better facilitate transportation within city limits and through partnership with WeGo Public Transit. Addressing the challenges of the congested and growing Middle Tennessee region makes partnerships between local transit agencies and WeGo Public Transit increasingly important in making local connections with regional services, officials say.

Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland stressed the importance of the city’s Transit Center.

“It really provides a place for us to be able to partner with TDOT, WeGo, Mid-Cumberland and others to get people to their jobs, to medical appointments, and to places some citizens couldn’t otherwise get to without public transportation,” McFarland said.

The City of Murfreesboro received $9 million in TDOT IMPROVE ACT funds and $5 million in federal dollars for design and construction of the new facility. The city’s required $2.8 million in local matching funds for the project came from the 2019 and 2022 Capital Improvement Program.

The new facility sits on a 5.5-acre site across from the Doug Young Public Safety Training Facility.

“The opening of the Murfreesboro Transit Center is a vital step forward for public transportation in Middle Tennessee,” said Jason Spain, executive director of the Tennessee Public Transportation Association. “With the opening of this modern and accessible transit hub, Murfreesboro is reaffirming its commitment to a more connected and inclusive future.”

Murfreesboro Transit operates a fleet of 12 buses and 18 drivers. The central hub had been located at 222 W. Burton St. in downtown Murfreesboro since transit operations began in 2007.

Murfreesboro Transit has a mobile app to track public transit service and is available for downloading on Apple and Android devices.

For more information on Murfreesboro Transit, including routes, visit murfreesborotn.gov/248.

ment in Barrett’s history and reflects the NIOA group’s long-term commitment to advanced manufacturing and local jobs in Rutherford County.

The first stage includes corporate headquarters, R&D capabilities, large scale state-of-the-art manufacturing and first-floor office area spread over more than 250,000 square feet. The expansion will double the Barrett workforce and enable the company to meet growing worldwide

demand for its commercial and defense products. The building project is expected to be completed by February 2027.

The Learning Center has announced plans to build a new facility at 1706 Blackman Rd. near the intersection with Hartman Farm Court.

The preschool and daycare provider will offer programs for children from six weeks continued on page 32 boropulse.com * September 2025 * 31

Continued from page 30 through pre-kindergarten, following the organization’s STEAM-based curriculum.

Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The new location will provide access to quality early childhood education in the growing Blackman area. Visit learningzonechildcare.com for further information.

Uncle Nearest in Shelbyville has been placed under receivership following a lawsuit alleging that the Tennessee whiskey company defaulted on loans valued over $100 million.

The lawsuit, filed by lender Farm Credit Mid-America, noted that Uncle Nearest breached loan agreements when misreporting inventory and misusing funds. Company leaders deny wrongdoing, suggesting that former CFO Mike Senzaki is responsible for the company’s current issues, and insisting the brand remains financially strong despite repayment efforts only totaling $9 million in 2024, and $7.5 million this year.

The court ordered the preservation of collateral, primarily whiskey barrels, and has placed a gag order in response to CEO Fawn Weaver’s social media activity following posts on her Instagram page suggesting that the brand’s followers should “clear the shelves.”

jefferson's has opened on the Murfreesboro Public Square, vacating its location on East Main Street. Now located at 109 N. Maple St. (briefly the home of Fire Korean BBQ & Bar), Jefferson’s specializes in wings, burgers and oysters.

Senzaki, who was fired as CFO in October 2024, is allegedly responsible for the misrepresented inventory. The Weavers claim that Senzaki overstated the inventory by approximately $21 million between 2022 and 2023. That overstatement helped Uncle Nearest secure an increase of $24 million to the business’s line of credit. The Weavers’ response points out that the bank approved the additional funds without verifying the inventory with the third-party warehouse. The Weavers said that the lawsuit “tellingly fails to acknowledge that Uncle Nearest was the victim of fraudulent activity and never intended to trigger the technical default.”

Founded in 2016, Uncle Nearest rose quickly to national recognition, honoring Nathan “Nearest” Green, a formerly enslaved man credited with teaching Jack Daniel the craft of whiskey-making.

The company remains in operation.

Dos Rancheros, located at 2458 Old Fort Pkwy., has closed and the building has been emptied, though no official announcement has been made regarding plans for the business. This follows the recent opening of Murfreesboro’s fifth Camino Real Mexican Restaurant, located just in front of the Dos Rancheros space.

Opinion

 money matters

BY SEAN MORAN

photo courtesy of kaboompics.com / pexels

tion for seniors over 65 allows for an additional $6,000 deduction.

The initial proposal was for elimination on the Social Security tax, but that did not pass. This deduction is to help minimize (or in some cases eliminate) that tax for those under a certain income threshold. It phases out at an income of $75K (single), $150K (joint), so it’s meant to help the average American and not the proverbial “rich.”

More Money in Your Pocket 5 Provisions of The One Big

Beautiful Bill Could Affect Taxes before Independence Day 2025, Congress passed a measure called “One Big Beautiful Bill” that extended the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017 tax cuts that were set to expire this year, making some of those rules permanent. Had the entire 2017 tax bill not been passed before year’s end, it would have expired, reverting back to the 2016 law.

Here’s a summary of five individual tax law changes that are likely to impact many tax filers in 2025:

Standard 1 Deduction Increase

It is estimated that less than 10 percent of Americans itemize their deductions, due to the high standard deduction afforded by the TCJA. At the beginning of 2025, standard deductions were set at $15,000 (single) and $30,000 (married filing jointly), and the OBBB added $750 per spouse to that, making it $15,750 and $31,500 respectively, which will lower your taxable income a bit more and, with some plan-

ning, could put you in a lower tax bracket.

and 2State Local Tax

One of the complaints of the TCJA was that the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction—the amount of state tax you can deduct—was limited to $10,000. Most higher property tax states were annoyed, because their deduction was limited. The OBBB temporarily increases this deduction to $40,000. This means someone who pays $40,000 per year can now deduct their full state tax on their federal return. This is only available between 2025–29.

In 2030 it will revert back to $10,000. Keep in mind that this is not in addition to the standard deduction. Your itemized deductions would be increased by the SALT deduction and you can then choose the higher of the two. Furthermore, this deduction is limited to taxpayers who earn under $500,000.

3Age 65-plus

A new temporary deduc-

4Charitable DeductionS

Because donations to charity are an itemized deduction, most people haven’t been able to deduct their contributions under the TCJA. Under the OBBB there is some relief; taxpayers taking the standard deduction may now also deduct cash charitable contributions up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (joint filers), subject to income limitations.

Child 5Expanded Tax CreditS

At the beginning of 2025 the child tax credit was expected to be $2,000 per child, and under the OBBB that increased to $2,200.

There are income limits here, and if your tax liability is less than the full credit you may get some portion of the credit as a refund.

Other Notable Provisions: Tax on overtime pay this one is temporary and subject to income limits. It would allow you to deduct the premium portion up to a maximum amount per year. So, if you made $20/ hour and overtime was $30, you can deduct out the extra $10 and only pay taxes on the $20 rather than the full overtime pay.

Auto loan interest If you purchased a new vehicle that was assembled in the U.S. after Dec. 31, 2024 you may be able to deduct the interest you pay on your loan if it’s for personal use.

boropulse.com * September 2025 * 33

Tax on tips For those who earn $25K or less in tips and fall under the income requirements, they get a deduction to offset that tip income.

Now is a great idea to start planning with your tax and financial advisor so you can be sure to implement these and other tax benefits into your 2025 plan.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not tax, legal or financial advice. Everyone’s situation is different, so consult a financial advisor. Connect with Sean Moran by calling 615-619-6919 or email smoran@redbarnfinancial.com, or visit redbarnfinancial.com for more information.

Opinion

#FREEYOURCHILDREN by tiffany boyd

Remove Your Children From Government Schools and Take Control of Their Education The start of school has already resulted in school shootings, assaults, educators charged with sex crimes, and outlandish attendance policies. Parents are fed up but don’t know what to do.

It is never too late to home school.

The hardest step is always the first one. You can do it. Arm yourself with the information you need and take the leap.

Many families have removed their children from the brick-and-mortar school building and are under the assumption that they are home schooling, but are they really?

I hope this article will clear up any confusion regarding home-school laws in Tennessee and give a clear synopsis of what home schooling is and what it is not, as well as provide some tips to make navigating your new homeschool journey less stressful. If you haven’t already, embrace the freedom that home schooling provides.

In Tennessee home-school parents can choose to register their child as an Independent home-school student. This is the most regulated home-school option and one I never recommend.

“To independently home school in

Tennessee, parents or legal guardians must possess a high school diploma or a high school equivalency credential approved by the state board of education and must submit an Intent to Home School form to the school district where the family resides. Parents may withdraw their child to independent home school at any point during the school year. To continue operating as an independent home school, a new Intent to Home School form must be submitted before the start of each school year,” according to information from the Tennessee Department of Education. “Independent home school students must take the TCAP assessment in grades five, seven and nine. Each Tennessee school district has a home school coordinator whose responsibilities include assisting families with compliance for independent home school.”

Category IV (the Umbrella School Option) is the option that the majority of home-school families utilize in Tennessee, and the least restrictive. There are hundreds of umbrella schools to choose from and they all vary greatly. Many do not require testing and allow parents the freedom and flexibility to choose the method of

home schooling that works best for their child. Parents registering with an umbrella school are not required to submit an intent to home school to their local board of education. Once enrolled with an umbrella school, the school will handle all communication with any public school employees.

If you are enrolled with an umbrella option and are being harassed by a government school agent, promptly tell them that they are to never contact you again and to contact the umbrella in which your child is enrolled or they will face legal action.

Once enrolled with an umbrella, all communication should go through your umbrella school. A list of nonpublic umbrella schools can be found at tn.gov/education.

Some parents have confused Category III as a home schooling option.

This is the accredited online school option. The tn.gov website is very clear that these are online private schools and not homeschools.

Home schooling is not a virtual private online school at home. The virtual private school where your child is enrolled determines the online curriculum your child utilizes and determines the rules and policies your

child will follow while enrolled in their private school, at home.

Parents are not in control of their child’s education with this method. The private school is.

Home schooling is parent-led and parent-directed. That means the parent chooses the method and curriculum (if any), is directly in charge, and participates in the education of their child.

Virtual public schools are also not home schooling. This is literally a public school in the location of your home.

“A Tennessee public virtual school is a public school that uses technology to deliver a significant portion of instruction to its students via the internet in a virtual or remote setting. Public virtual schools are held to the same rigorous standards as all other public schools in Tennessee,” as defined by the state.

Some examples of these virtual public schools are Connections Academy, Tennessee Online Public School and Virtual Academy of Maury County.

With the passage of the Education Freedom Scholarship Act in Tennessee, the face of home schooling has been hijacked by entrepreneurs hoping to capitalize by applying to be a vendor to provide services at the expense of the taxpayers. They are private/public partnerships whose goal is to make a buck off of state-controlled and funded private education.

Home schooling is not a hybrid school or a microschool where your child is under the supervision, tutelage and care of paid employees for the majority of their education.

Homeschooling is not a learning pod with a paid teacher instructing a group of students for the majority of their educational hours without the parents present. Again, that is private school.

Co-ops and tutorials are also not “learning pods” even though legislation in Tennessee was rammed through last session to legally define it as such for the

sole purpose of protecting those entrepreneurs who want to capitalize on the school choice scam.

Our home school laws in Tennessee are cumbersome and unconstitutional. During the last legislative session we had hoped to change that with the FREE Act, but for now a parent’s best legal option for home schooling in Tennessee is to use a Category IV umbrella school. Do your research and choose one that is best for your family.

The following recommendations apply to families considering home schooling no matter their geographical location: 1. Make sure you are familiar with the home-school laws in your state before you begin.

2. Define your why. Why do you want to home school your children? Defining your why will help to solidify your resolve.

3. Hold off on purchasing that curriculum. Take the time to de-school your children and yourself. During the de-schooling process, take the time to research home-school models.

Find the model that works best for each of your children and for your family. This will save you a vast amount of time, frustration and money.

4. Consider hiring a homeschool consultant or finding a mentor who has graduated home-schooled children and can answer your questions.

5. If you have extenuating circumstances that may serve as roadblocks in your journey, tap into available resources. There are thousands of working homeschool parents, single parents and parents of children with special needs that have or are home schooling their children.

Home schooling puts parents directly in the driver’s seat of their children’s education. Enjoy the journey!

Tiffany Boyd is the founder of Free YOUR Children. Find more homeschooling resources at freeyourchildren.com.

34 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

 education Whether good or bad, what our children see around them will, ultimately, shape how they think and act as they continue to grow. As parents, my wife and I understand we are not able to control everything our child observes.

We do try to place him in extracurricular environments that we believe and hope will provide the types of visual stimulation and cues that align with the positive intrinsic reinforcement that will, ultimately, serve him throughout the maturation process. photo courtesy of amber faust / pexels

See It, Learn It, Do It Social Learning Theory

by Josh Bowden

It is that time of year again when a whole new batch of kiddos are off to school (or a school-like environment) for the first time.

For many of these children, it will be the first time they are without their parents or guardians. Even more importantly, it will be the first time they are experiencing what it is like to interact with other children for extended periods. This. Can. Be. Daunting.

Worry not, parents—we have all the answers right here!

(Spoiler alert: we don’t actually have all the answers.)

Regardless, let’s plow ahead and get into it!

Psychologist Albert Bandura came up with social learning theory, which explains that we don’t just learn by doing things ourselves—we also learn by watching other people. We pay attention to what others do, notice what happens to them and, sometimes, copy their behavior.

Things like attention, motivation, emotions and personal attitudes all affect how much we actually learn via this method.

Unlike previous ideas that stated our learned behaviors only happen through direct experi-

ence (like direct personal rewards or punishments), Bandura showed that we can also learn just by observing others.

For example, if you’ve never kicked a soccer ball before, you’d probably still know how to try— just from watching others do it.

That’s social learning in action.

There are three key ideas that comprise this type of learning.

1

We can learn by observing We don’t always need to try something ourselves to understand it. Watching, listening or even reading about an action can teach us.

2

Our thoughts and feelings matter Learning isn’t just about outside rewards or punishments. Internal experiences—like pride, satisfaction or feeling accomplished— also motivate us. Bandura called this intrinsic reinforcement.

3

Learning doesn’t always mean immediate change Just because someone learns something doesn’t mean they’ll act on it right away. For example,

you may know how to solve a problem but choose not to show it unless needed.

How We Learn Through Observation: Attention: You have to notice what’s going on. If you’re distracted, you won’t learn much.

Retention: You need to remember what you saw.

Reproduction: You try the behavior yourself. Practice makes you better.

Motivation: You’ll be more likely to copy the behavior if you’re motivated—especially if you see others being rewarded for it.

We incorporate all four of these essential elements into our curriculum for all Lil’ Kickers’ classes.

Creative game play combined with easily repeatable steps allow for memory development and, ultimately, success and confidence.

Social learning theory shows us that life would be much harder if we had to learn everything on our own. Instead, we shortcut the process by watching others.

boropulse.com * September 2025 * 35

Remember, parents—strength in numbers. As parents, we’ve got this!

We are all our best resources, so please share your own thoughts or questions by dropping us an email.

We’d love to hear from you and we’ll be sure to address the topics here for the benefit of the community.

Josh Bowden is the owner and operator of Lil’ Kickers Murfreesboro. Contact him at thepulse@ thelkm.com.

Constitution Study

BY Paul Engel

State Sovereignty

Which came first, the states or the federal government? Did the federal government create the states? No, the states created the federal government when they ratified the Constitution. One state legislature tried to pass legislation to reassert their position as sovereign over the federal government.

Sadly, that measure did not pass . . . yet.

Sovereignty The Texas Legislature attempted to pass a bill some have called the Texas Sovereignty Act. The stated purpose of the bill was: relating to the authority of the legislature to determine that certain federal directives are unconstitutional and to prohibit certain government officers and employees from enforcing or assisting in the enforcement of the directive.

— Texas H.B. No. 796 Texas was not the first state to consider such legislation, and I can only hope it won’t be the last. This time the bill died in the Senate. However, I still think it’s worth looking at both in the hopes that the Texas legislature will pick this up again in the future, and that other states will be inspired to do so as well.

To understand this legislation, we need a bit of a history lesson on the United States of America.

History Way back in 1776, the 13 colonies declared themselves free and independent states.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection 36 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — Declaration of Independence These brand-new and independent states recognized that they would need to work together if they were to survive, especially against their mother country, Great Britain.

Congress proposed the Articles of Confederation in November of 1777, and it was ratified by the new states in March of 1781. The Articles of Confederation was replaced in 1787 with the Constitution for the United States of America, which only went into effect after the states ratified it.

This means that the Constitution is an interstate compact—an agreement among states or between nations on matters in which they have a common concern.

This also means that the states are parties to the compact. Since the federal government is a creation of this compact, the states not only created the federal government, but delegated to it limited and enumerated powers.

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. — U.S. Constitution, Amendment X

Supremacy Clause So, if the states created the federal government, if the states are the only entities that can delegate powers to this government, why do so many state governments act as subjects of the federal government rather than its master? From my research, I find two reasons for this power inversion.

First, it’s a misinterpretation of the Supremacy Clause.

This Constitution, and the Laws of the Unit-

ed States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any Thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding.

— U.S. Constitution, Article VI, Clause 2 Law schools teach, and it’s widely accepted, that the Supreme Court is the supreme law of the land. They may not use those words, but that’s the impact of their teachings. However, a quick look at the supremacy clause shows that court decisions hold no position in the supreme law of the land. In fact, the judges in every state are bound to the supreme law, not the Supreme Court.

It’s also taught and accepted that any act of Congress signed by the President supersedes state law. Once again, a quick look at the supremacy clause shows that only “Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance” of the Constitution are the supreme law of the land.

Second is the fact that, based on my research, the Constitution is no longer taught in our law schools. This indoctrination of our entire legal system has led the idea that the states are subdivisions of the federal government, not its creator and master. If attorneys had studied the Tenth Amendment and the Necessary and Proper Clause, then maybe the need for states to reassert their sovereignty would not be necessary.

This is where the Texas Sovereignty Act, and others like it, come into play. This would not be the first time that states declared the acts of the federal government unconstitutional. The most famous of these happened back in 1798 with the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions.

That the good people of this Commonwealth having ever felt and continuing to feel the most sincere affection for their brethren of the other states, the truest anxiety for establishing and perpetuating the union of all, and the most scrupulous fidelity to that Constitution which is the pledge of mutual friendship, and the instrument of mutual happiness, the General Assembly doth solemnly appeal to the like dispositions of the other States, in confidence that they will concur with this Commonwealth in declaring, as it does hereby declare, that the acts aforesaid are unconstitutional, and that the necessary and proper measures will be taken by each, for cooperating with this State in maintaining unimpaired the authorities, rights, and liberties, reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

— Virginia Resolution

In recent years, many states have also considered similar legislation, while others simply ignore federal laws like those involving the use of marijuana or federal immigration laws.

A move of this importance should not be left to whimsical decision-making processes.

The Texas legislature proposed a robust structured process for declaring a federal act unconstitutional, one that would have given the legislature the ability, by concurrent resolution, to (1) determine that a federal directive is an unconstitutional federal directive; and (2) prohibit a government officer or employee from enforcing or assisting in the enforcement of the unconstitutional federal directive.

The Texas legislature also recognized the constitutional authority of the federal government to call up the state’s militia. (b) This section does not apply to a federal directive that activates the state military forces as defined by Section 431.001.

— TX H.B. No. 796 This act would have also required the legislature to be specific about which federal acts were unconstitutional, and their impact on state officers and employees. A concurring resolution designating “an unconstitutional federal directive” would have required a two-thirds majority for passage.

Overall, this appears to be a reasonable and logical way for a state to reassert both its sovereignty and power as a party to the Constitution to oversee their creation.

Conclusion Sadly, this bill did not pass the Texas Senate. I’m not sure why, but I can take some reasonable guesses. It appears that more state legislatures are controlled by attorneys. It is my understanding that proposed legislation is frequently reviewed by attorneys for their opinions before it is debated. Since it is probable that the attorneys who are reviewing this legislation haven’t actually studied the supreme law of the land, their opinions about legislation would deviate from what the Constitution actually says. It’s also possible that state legislators simply don’t want to pick a fight with the federal government.

As we’ve all heard, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” I would suggest that not only to the legislators and citizens in Texas, but in all 50 states. Because if you want to understand why the federal government is regulating just about every aspect of our lives, it’s because the states didn’t stand up. Legislation like the Texas Sovereignty Act may be the only legal way to rein in an out-of-control federal government.

Understanding Taxes in Probate: What You Need to Know NAVIGATING THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY of losing a loved one is challenging enough without the added complexity of handling their estate. One of the most daunting aspects can be managing the taxes involved in probate.

Probate is a legal process that ensures the estate of the deceased is distributed correctly according to their will, or state law if no will exists. It involves several key steps, including validating the will, inventorying the deceased’s assets, paying off debts and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs. This process also includes fulfilling the tax obligations of that estate, which can vary significantly depending on several factors.

UNDERSTANDING TAXES IN PROBATE IS CRUCIAL Taxes in probate can complicate an already complex process. If not handled correctly, you might face unexpected financial burdens or legal challenges.

Understanding these taxes is crucial to ensuring that the estate is settled properly without any additional stress.

ESTATE TAXES: Not every estate will be subject to federal estate taxes, which as of recent guidelines apply only to estates exceeding substantial values (for example, over $12 million). However, it’s essential to check whether the estate qualifies for these taxes to avoid surprises. Additionally, some states impose their own estate taxes, which could affect the estate differently depending on where the deceased lived.

INHERITANCE TAXES: Unlike estate taxes, which are taken from the estate itself before distribution, inheritance taxes are paid by the individuals who inherit the property. Not all states have this tax, but for those that do, rates can vary by the inheritor’s relationship to the deceased and other factors.

INCOME TAXES: The executor of the estate must also file a final income tax return for the deceased, which covers the period from Jan. 1 of the last year of their life until their date of death. If the estate generates income during the

probate process, it may also be subject to income taxes.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID One significant mistake many people make is not planning for these taxes in advance. This oversight can lead to insufficient funds within the estate to cover taxes, forcing the sale of assets that the deceased wished to pass on to their heirs. Another common error is misunderstanding the tax filing requirements, which can lead to penalties and interest.

HOW A PROBATE SPECIALIST CAN HELP Being well-prepared for the tax obligations in probate can prevent these issues. It ensures that all financial and legal requirements are met efficiently, allowing for a smoother transition of assets to the beneficiaries.

As a Certified Probate Specialist, I assist families through these complex processes with empathy and expertise. I provide guidance on evaluating the estate correctly, understanding tax implications,

and ensuring compliance with both federal and state laws. My role is to simplify this complex process for you, ensuring that you can focus on what truly matters during such a challenging time.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the details or just want to be better prepared for the future, I encourage you to take action today.

DON’T NAVIGATE THIS JOURNEY ALONE Proper planning and expert guidance can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth probate process. Let’s tackle this challenge together and create a plan that protects your legacy and gives your family peace of mind.

To access a free guide, “Understanding Taxes in Probate: What You Need to Know,” which provides more detailed insights to help you navigate the complexities of probate taxes with confidence, or you have any questions or need immediate assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly at 615-828-1645.

— KELLY GAFFORD

NAVIGATE PROBATE WITH CONFIDENCE! Proud to share that I am now a CERTIFIED PROBATE SPECIALIST. Whether you’re dealing with probate for the first time or need expert advice, I'm here to help.

LET’S NAVIGATE THIS JOURNEY TOGETHER! SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH A REAL ESTATE PRO WHO OFFERS PROBATE SUPPORT TODAY! — 615-828-1645

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Live Exceptionally...Well!

BY JENNIFER DURAND

Healthy Habit Changers Do you ever feel a little lost

photo courtesy of andre furtado / pexels

when it comes to updating your life? Do you feel stagnant and want your life to look or feel different, but you don’t know how to get there? It can be a tall order just to get through the routine of your day, let alone figure out a way to make any part of it greater or just a little different. Do you feel the need to make any kind of progress toward a more fulfilling life?

“If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living” — Unknown I’m going to share very simple ideas that you can use as a guide to start making small changes that can have a big impact. Think of it as your own personal “Change Your Life Treasure Hunt.” Fall is in the air and it’s a great time to start some routines as a new season approaches. I will share 30 practices to at least try. Many of them are recommended to add as a daily, weekly or monthly routine. While there are an infinite number of ideas, some of these are basic self care 101 for healthy life habits. The first 10 are good to implement each day, then build on by adding the next one. None of these will be lengthy to start, though you may find yourself wanting to add time to them the more you do them.

1. Breathe: Start and end each day by laying in your bed and taking 10 full, slow deep breaths— inhaling and exhaling in equal time. Breath increases our capacity to receive more. It supports responding versus reacting.

2. Be Still: Press the pause button sometime throughout the day—maybe in the middle of a hectic moment—and just be still. Allow nothing around you to have an effect in that simple moment of stillness. The only thing allowed during this time is intentional breathing to support the stillness.

3. Express Gratitude: Think of three things every day that you are thankful for. Write them down in a specific notebook meant just for these thoughts. Imagine all the things you’ll be able to look back on in a month, then a year.

4. Walk in Nature: Simply breathe in the fresh air and move your body.

5. Make Your Bed: Start the day with order and cleanliness. It really sets the tone for the day, and doesn’t add chaos when you come home.

Things are neat and tidy.

6. Disconnect From Electronics: Set boundaries and limit your personal use of electronic distractions or stimulation. If you need 38 * September 2025 * boropulse.com

a starting point, start with no cellphone anytime during meals or time with friends.

7. Listen: Ask the divine source, or whatever you believe in, what you can do to help make this day great. Listen for the guidance or idea that comes, and then go do it.

8. Choose a Word: Keep magnetic poetry pieces or words you’ve written on pieces of paper next to your bed. Choose one each day as your mantra for that day (Kindness, Forgiveness, Boldness, Silence, Patience, etc.) and apply that word in any situation that arises for that day. Watch how that simple practice gives you focus or changes your perspective.

9. Drink Water: Start your day with 16 ounces of room temperature water, before you do anything else. Yes, you can do this. It hydrates your body and skin. It stimulates organ function and body flow. It’s good for the digestive system.

10. Bask in Sunlight: Get some natural Vitamin D from the original source of light—the sun! Light makes everything grow and things naturally gravitate to the sun because it gives energy.

Other things to try at least once throughout the month to help change your focus, perspective, dimension, experience, or your life: Visit an art gallery, listen to live music, read a book, call a friend you haven’t seen in awhile, put a puzzle together, take a dance lesson, go visit a stranger in an assisted living facility, volunteer—there are so many places that need help (check out Greenhouse Ministries), discover a new musical artist or song by doing random searches, try a new restaurant, try a new type of food at your favorite restaurant, go through a drive-thru and pick up the tab for the person behind you, make up cards with motivational sayings or words on them and hand them out to people you see throughout the day, purposely smile at everyone you pass—whether they look at you or not, visit a store you’ve never gone into, take a lesson in a sport you don’t think you’re good at, join a social meet-up group and make a new friend, go camping (or glamping), watch a sunrise, star gaze, drive a different route, visit a farm or go to the zoo. This should get you started on discovering some new things about yourself, and what you might like. Enjoy the journey and feel free to share your discoveries with me.

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.

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