Right Beside You.
For more than 75 years, Murfreesboro Medical Clinic has provided high-quality healthcare for our community. From primary care to specialized services, our providers are right beside you throughout your health journey, offering the compassion and expertise you deserve. Your health is our mission.
Kids & Pets
This edition holds a very special place in our hearts. Children are more than just our future; they're the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter and boundless energy light up our homes and inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. Their view of the world, full of wonder and honesty, has the power to shift perspectives and spark hope in even the most trying times. My wife, Stacie, and I certainly are motivated by the curiosity and happiness bubbling from our two young children. We feel truly fortunate to have the opportunity to be parents.
As caregivers, mentors and even neighbors, we invest so much into helping youth grow and thrive. We teach them lessons, guide them through milestones and cheer them on every step of the way. But if we’re honest, they’re the ones teaching us just as much. They remind us to slow down, to play, to imagine and to love deeply.
And then there are our pets, the loyal companions who never miss a moment to bring joy, comfort and unconditional love. The bond between children and their pets is nothing short of magical. Whether it's the wag of a tail, a nuzzle after a long day or a shared adventure in the backyard, these connections are formative. They teach empathy, responsibility, patience and how to love without conditions.
This month, I'm giving extra 'good boy' pats to my beloved dog, Zeke. He's a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois. We rescued him during March 2019, and he's become such a good friend. During our daily orange ball throw-and-catch times, both he and I get to pause to simply be in the moment and to enjoy each other's company. I'm very grateful to have Zeke in my life and part of our family.
Let's all make the most of August as summer winds down.
JON GREGORY, PUBLISHER @BOROCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Jon Gregory | jon.gregory@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Stacie Gregory | stacie.gregory@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Paige Robinson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Lynn Caldwell/Parks & Recreation marketing supervisor, Lindsey Hickman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Angela Lynn Duggar
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn
PARKS & RECREATION FOR Kids And Pets
Great things are happening, especially for community kids and pets. In fact, “To provide vibrant public spaces and inclusive programs, delivered with visionary leadership and caring staff that engage the individual and strengthen the quality of life of our community” is the mission statement of Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation, an objective the entire team works tirelessly to make happen.
“One of the very best things we do is put the right people in place to make sure we're consistently planning and providing new and incredible experiences for our community, and especially children and families,” shares Nate Williams, executive director of Murfreesboro Recreation Services.
Each season brings new activities, and fall is definitely a favorite for Murfreesboro families. Starting in August with the Hummingbird Festival, it’s an event full of education, nature and hands-on fun. Children can watch a hummingbird being banded, hear the details of its history, and a lucky few might get to release them back into the wild.
Try Out Varied, Unique Programming And Community Seasonal Events ARTICLE BY LYNN CALDWELL
There's the Greenway Art Festival in September, which is an array of homemade art vendors, live entertainment and even a junior art section. October brings the Barfield Bash carnival with fun and games, and of course, a haunted hayride. Coming back this year is the not-so-haunted version for the really little ones. There also are hayrides, s’more roasting, family campouts and even a last chance to get on the water for some kayaking or paddleboarding.
Amazing kids' activities are offered at all the facilities, whether it’s joining toddler classes and special events at Sports*Com or Patterson Park Community Center, learning how to cook for animals, playing Wildlife Trivia at the Wilderness Station or trying out tennis at Adams Tennis Complex.
For those who want to explore their creative side, the department's Cultural Arts division offers many, different art activities and classes for every age and ability. They also produce several plays each year that have open auditions and a large cast and crew, perfect to perform in, or go to and watch.
Cannonsburgh Village and Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center have events for kids, and offer times to just come in and explore the history and culture right here in the community.
We sure do love animals of all kinds at Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation.
The parks and Greenway trails always welcome dogs that are on a leash, and they're seen enjoying the amenities quite frequently. Two Bark Parks also cater specifically to fourlegged friends at the General Bragg Trailhead and the Cason Trailhead. The end of summer at Boro Beach always closes out its season with the annual Puppy Plunge event, which invites all puppies to take one last plunge into the big pool as an afternoon full of fun for everyone.
The best way to stay in the know is to check out the 'Event Guide/Things to Do' calendar, which lists all the events each day at MurfreesboroParks.com.
Upcoming Events
Aug. 9: Wilderness Station’s End of Summer Bash, Barfield Crescent Park
Aug. 15: USTA Level 5 Tennessee Junior Open, Adams Tennis Complex
Aug. 30: Hummingbird Festival, Barfield Crescent Park
Sept. 1: Labor Day, Boro Beach
Sept. 20: Greenway Art Festival
Sanitary Pet Waste Removal
Doo Doo Blues specializes in pet waste removal but also offers deck cleaning, kitty litter service and a yard deodorizer.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA LYNN DUGGAR
“We’re committed to quality and fair pricing, and we offer free quotes,” says Robert. “We handle the pickup and proper disposal, sanitize our tools to prevent the spread of germs, and keep your family and pets safe from the unwanted surprises.”
Doo Doo Blues was launched for the sole purpose of cleaning up dog waste from local neighborhoods, one yard at a time. Now, pet owners who are clients never sing the blues.
Kellie Maxcy, Doo Doo Blues of Murfreesboro/ Pro Waste LLC vice president, says she and her husband, Robert Maxcy, love pets but were tired of worrying about their dog’s waste when wanting to let their three, young children play outside in their yard, especially going barefoot.
"So, one day at my previous job I decided to take action. I drew a funny picture, made a social media page and Doo Doo Blues was born," recalls Doo Doo Blues founder/owner Robert. "We started out on Facebook just for giggles and within a couple of months, had a full-time business."
Fast-forward to now, and the Maxcys have grown the business into an entrepreneurial franchise model, providing services across Middle Tennessee, Memphis and Knoxville, with additional locations nearing launch in Chattanooga and Jackson. The company also maintains homebase operations throughout Georgia.
“We’re committed to quality and fair pricing, and we offer free quotes,” says Robert. “We handle the pickup and proper disposal, sanitize our tools to prevent the spread of germs, and keep your family and pets safe from the unwanted surprises."
He explains the company's trained technicians and service teams walk clients' yards in grid patterns, scooping and clearing all the pet waste. "We clean yards, rain or shine or snow, taking the waste with us when we go. We can apply deodorizing sprays, too. We also sanitize our shoes and equipment before every job to prevent germs," he adds.
Ask about Doo Doo removal products.
Kellie and Robert Maxcy founded and own Doo Doo Blues.
“We’re reliable, friendly, professional, background-checked and just as interested as our clients are in having clean yards. We send a text or leave a door hanger letting clients know exactly when we leave. And we can establish cleanup routines anywhere from once to five times per week.”
A yard cleanup is a perfect solution before yard parties, barbecues or holiday gatherings, too.
Kellie says: "We're reliable, friendly, professional, background-checked and just as interested as our clients are in having clean yards. We send a text or leave a door hanger letting clients know exactly when we leave. And we can establish cleanup routines anywhere from once to five times per week."
Team members are fully insured and licensed, plus the company carries workers comp insurance.
Robert says they also service subdivision common grounds, parks or apartment areas, and can install and maintain top-notch pet waste stations.
This Murfreesboro-headquartered, dynamic duo is fond of saying they are "No. 1 in the No. 2 industry."
615.788.9916
DooDooBlues.com
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BAF
Beesley Animal Foundation Group Makes Positive Differences In Local Pets’ Lives
Pet Kindness, Respect,
Responsibility
Pets and their peeps are especially fortified through year-round efforts of a resourceful, dedicated nonprofit: Beesley Animal Foundation.
Murfreesboro native Jesse C. Beesley Jr., (1901-1980) a noted sculptor, was instrumental in forming the first humane society in Rutherford County with grassroots volunteers in 1976. He inspired the formation of a local spay/neuter clinic in 1992. Since the opening of the Beesley Animal Clinic during May of 1992, more than 76,000 spay/neuter surgeries were performed.
BAF representatives remind they are not an animal shelter or rescue group.
BAF Wish List: dog/cat food, copy paper, paper towels, bleach wipes, laundry powder.
Today, BAF Executive Director Dawn Roberts says the group still operates Beesley Animal Clinic, and remains dedicated to decreasing the suffering caused by pet overpopulation. During 2024 alone, she says BAF subsidized $57,000-plus in veterinary services for pet owners and performed 3,103 spay/neuter surgeries, plus 19,220 vaccinations. She says anyone is welcome to seek Beesley’s services and programs, regardless of where they live.
In addition to the clinic, four other programs fall under the BAF umbrella to support community pets and pet owners:
• Education: BAF representatives educate community residents about responsible pet care, including how spay/neuter and pet wellness are necessary in ensuring pets remain healthy and happy. Topics include: avoiding animal bites; kindness to animals; responsible pet ownership; importance of rabies shots; proper vet care; leash laws; and importance of population control. Kind News, a RedRover magazine promoting “kindness, respect, responsibility” to pets and people, is provided to elementary schools in Rutherford and Cannon counties through this program.
• Financial Assistance: BAF offers financial assistance to underserved or low-income individuals, senior citizens and those facing homelessness. Qualified individuals receive assistance to spay/neuter their cat or dog, or other BAC services.
• Community Outreach: BAF partners with organizations in Rutherford and Cannon counties to distribute cat and dog food with human food drives.
Since 2016, 46,500-plus pounds of pet food were distributed throughout Middle Tennessee. "We especially enjoy partnering with senior centers," explains Dawn.
• Oliver Pet Assistance Fund: Through this program, owned cats and dogs in Rutherford and Cannon Counties can request assistance for urgent-nonemergent care thanks to partnerships with local veterinarians.
"We strongly believe in the power of the human-animal bond," states Dawn.
The foundation and clinic are located in Murfreesboro at 2215 Keeneland Commercial Blvd.
Foundation: 615.217.1030
Clinic: 615.890.6878
BeesleyAnimalClinic.com/about-the-foundation
Dawn Roberts, BAF executive director
"THIS
YEAR MARKS A MAJOR MILESTONE: THE BEESLEY ANIMAL FOUNDATION 45TH ANNIVERSARY. WE'RE HONORED TO CONTINUE THIS LEGACY OF SERVICE. TOGETHER, WE'LL KEEP MAKING MEANINGFUL DIFFERENCES IN THE LIVES OF PETS AND PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY,"
~DAWN ROBERTS, BAF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Striving to ensure that all of our customers are return customers, Tri Star Title and Escrow pursues quality customer service as our number one priority. We implement processes that make our customers feel valued and respected as they make their home buying or selling decisions. Tri Star Title and Escrow has been in business for 19 years, over those years we have created a family like atmosphere.
Our clients whether first time or returning are always welcome to a seat at our table, and we are always eager to serve them in any way we can!
GO’FER FUN IN Murfreesboro
What’s New At GO USA Fun Park For Kids Of All Ages?
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY GO
USA
FUN PARK
RedemptionPrizes
GO USA Fun Park
For 37 years, GO USA Fun Park has been a cornerstone for family entertainment in Murfreesboro, reflecting a vibrant history of resilience, growth and community connections. In fact, co-operator Alex Abdo says the GO USA team is dedicated to supporting local organizations by donating minigolf vouchers to schools or hosting food trucks and spirit nights.
Under the banner of "Gopher Vision 2030," recent projects underway at GO USA Fun Park include an improved driving range with automatic tees; dualpit go karts; a new event pavilion in the future; and more seasonal events to build on the success of their Halloween miniature golf.
Overall, the GO USA team offers batting cages, go karts, a MaxFlight simulator, mini golf, a driving range, arcade games and redemption prizes, in addition to seeking creative ways to support community initiatives.
“We've been working with a driving range consultant to rethink layouts and possibilities. Our goal is to evolve while staying true to what's made us special for so long,” says Alex Abdo, who co-operates the park with his father and founder Curt Abdo.
Alex says weather-related factors dictated some of the concrete-driven progress, however, many finishing touches are expected to be completed by the end of August.
The new Power Tee patented, automated teeing system from the United Kingdom manufacturer elevates GO USA up with other American and international driving ranges that use this new technology, including locations in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
"We're the first in Tennessee with these world-class Power Tees. We met with the company representatives at the annual PGA Show, and were impressed. The system also allowed us to go from 20 to 23 tees," Alex explains.
He says their next project will be erecting open-air covers over the tees. They just finished installing a new seating wall and an upgrade to help nighttime visibility.
Alex says the team is working on enhancing the go-kart experience by introducing a dual-pit track, allowing for twice as many rides per hour.
"We're also bringing more variety to visitors with weekend food truck options on Fridays and Saturdays and will soon be expanding our unlimited play offerings and group packages, building on our popular unlimited go-kart and mini golf packages already available," says Alex.
He says they also updated the park's website to better showcase upcoming events and entertainment options.
615.895.7888
Driving Range
Batting Cages
Big Buck’s BBQ serves delectable barbecue at GO USA.
Mini Golf
Arcade games
MaxFlight simulator
Revving Up
Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix Returns To Nashville
Start your engines—Nashville’s boldest weekend is back! The Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix presented by WillScot roars into town Aug. 30-31, fusing thrills of INDYCAR racing with the soul of Music City’s legendary entertainment scene. What began as a motorsport event quickly has evolved into one of the city’s most electrifying events, where horsepower meets honky-tonk.
The action returns to Nashville Superspeedway as both the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone take to the track and crown their 2025 champions. The action will be fast-paced and wheelto-wheel as drivers push their cars past 200 MPH.
Looking for the ultimate racing experience? Secure your spot in the Borchetta Bourbon Champions Club. Perched directly over the start/ finish line, the club offers a panoramic view of Nashville Superspeedway in a premium, indoor, climate-controlled space. Gourmet food and beverage options will be available, including the namesake
Borchetta Bourbon, and the ticket includes paddock access to explore the heart of INDYCAR racing.
Want to be closer to the action? Grandstand tickets are available and kids under 12 can purchase a seat for just $10 with a ticketed adult. Premium Plus Grandstand seats include tip-up seats and reserved parking. Fans also can enjoy the entire weekend at Nashville Superspeedway with multiple camping options inside and outside the track.
INDYCAR has been running full throttle all season long, and Nashville's home to this year’s grand finale at the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix. Tickets go fast—don’t get left in the dust.
Visit: MusicCityGP.com
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
OHS STUDENTS, Teachers Assist
PET SUPPORT GROUP UNVEILS 24/7 MICROCHIP STATION AND OUTREACH PET FOOD BOX
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
After years of vision and months of community collaboration, Beesley Animal Foundation representatives unveiled the group’s new 24/7 Microchip Station and Outreach Box, now located in Murfreesboro on the foundation's front porch at 2215 Keeneland Commercial Blvd.
After BAF supporters issued a communitywide call for a used newspaper stand to serve as the station, and received one, Oakland High School’s welding class students stepped in to help. They removed several inches of concrete from the base, repaired dents and welded broken pieces to make the box sturdy and functional again.
The station-in-the-making then passed to Oakland High’s Art Club, under the direction of fine arts teacher Frank Baugh, where students transformed it into a vibrant, cat and dog-themed work of art that any pet lover would appreciate.
Shelves were added to the dual-purpose box that now serves as a microchip station to help reunite lost pets with their families, while also being an after-hours Outreach Pet Food Box for pet owners in need.
The DataMars Compact Max Microchip Scanner, generously sponsored by Kathryn McPherson, D.V.M., of McPherson Veterinary Services, is user-friendly and includes clear written instructions as well as a video tutorial.
“We’re thankful for local veterinary partners like Dr. McPherson, whose commitment to animal welfare helps make community projects like this possible,” says BAF Executive Director Dawn Roberts.
Dawn adds: “This long-awaited project is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together. Every element, from the box and repairs to the artwork and scanner and pet food, was donated, making this a truly grassroots initiative in service of pets and people throughout Middle Tennessee.”
BAF staffers state they’re extremely grateful to everyone who made this box possible because “it’s more than just a box; it’s a symbol of how our community comes together to care for animals. Through all of our programs, we promote kindness, respect and responsibility, and this project truly embodies those values.”
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 8/30/25 Of fer not v alid in all r e gions
WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE EVENTS | BANQUETS | PARTIES
Perhaps you’ve attended an event in the 4th floor Banquet Room, but did you know that The View has two smaller spaces sized for business events, corporate luncheons, and board meetings? And for a limited time, new users get our best o er ever · Onsite eateries o ering catered breakfast and lunch packages
A wrap-around terrace or a garden patio Full AV capabilities
www.theviewatfountains.com | 1500 Medical Center Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error,
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
Wag It Better
LAST CALL FOR SUMMER SAVINGS
AUGUST 1ST
Wayfinding Art
Richard Siegel Park Playground | 10:00 AM
Wayfinding Art is an event at 515 Cherry Lane at which community residents can come free of charge and create art on the greenways with chalk provided by city representatives. No registration required. Email abarbieri@ murfreesborotn.gov with questions or call 615.893.7439.
AUGUST 12TH
Raptor Rhapsody
Barfield Crescent Park | 1:00 PM
Have you ever looked an owl in the eye, glared at a red-tailed hawk or checked out a falcon’s wings? This 30-minute event at Wilderness Station is your chance to learn about these master predators of the sky. Call 615.217.3017 or email amandarodriguez@murfreesborotn.gov.
AUGUST 29TH
Toddler Time With Thomas Sports*Com | 10:00 AM
Cheering. Laughing. Giggling. Thomas leads children (ages 5 and younger) in an array of engaging, fun activities. With a focus on body part recognition, cognitive skill development and the knowledge that little ones love to play, that's just what they do while they learn to wait their turn, follow directions and work together to accomplish simple goals.
realty report
My goal is to make the buying and selling process easier for everyone in Middle TN. I love learning the stories of why people are moving. From the family that just added their third baby to the empty nesters who are looking to downsize their home. This is a life changing event and one of the most stressful times in someone’s life. My goal is to make it as easy as possible by educating you on the process and giving you the tools to be successful. HOME BUYING, SELLING AND INVESTORS MEET ISAM
