Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-25-24
(upbeat music) - Hello and welcome to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM and WKRM radio. Your hometown news broadcasting from the Debbie Matthews Nashville Realty Newsroom in Columbia, Tennessee. I'm your host, Tom Price. Today is Wednesday, September 25th and we start with local news. The Spring Hill Police Department is searching for a suspect they say fled on foot from a traffic stop. According to Spring Hill Police Department, 41 year old Michael Pruitt has multiple arrest warrants. He is described as five feet, 11 inches tall and about 190 pounds. Police say he has buzz cut hair and was last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants. Williamson County Sheriff units along with a helicopter were patrolling the area around the crossings. If anyone has information on his whereabouts, you can send an anonymous tip at www.springhilltn.org. The city of Columbia in partnership with Columbia Power and Water Systems, the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation recently hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation of new electric vehicle fast charging stations. These charging stations represent a crucial step in Columbia's effort to support the growth of electric vehicles and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for our city and state, said Columbia Mayor Chasmolder. By working alongside partners like CPWS, TVA and TDEC, we are able to position Columbia at the forefront of green energy initiatives, he said. Funded through a $300,000 grant from TVA and TDEC, these new stations are part of a statewide initiative to expand EV infrastructure along Tennessee's interstates and major highways. Columbia is proud to be a part of the statewide effort, which supports the future of clean transportation and contributes to a greener, more sustainable environment. President and CEO of CPWS, Jonathan Harden stated, Columbia Power and Water Systems would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Murray County and city of Columbia governments for their partnership and forward thinking as we expand the energy portfolio into cleaner means of transportation. We all operate under the umbrella of responsible stewardship and progressive thinking facilitated by the Tennessee Valley Authority and the state of Tennessee, and local efforts are capably supported by the South Central Tennessee Development District, among others. The rapid pace of technological advancement and transportation necessitates a vast infrastructure to robustly serve the travel needs of the electric vehicle driving public. CPWS staff was entirely responsible for building this charging station, and we are excited that EV drivers will have their charging needs efficiently met in Murray County. Once here, we are excited they get to experience the gem that is our beloved town of Columbia, he said. The newly installed charging stations feature level three DC fast chargers, which can provide an 80% charge to a standard EV in just 15 to 20 minutes. This rapid charging capability allows EV drivers to power up quickly during short stops, making sustainable travel more convenient than ever. Chris Templeton, customer service manager for TVA emphasize the importance of the growing fast charge network. TVA is truly committed to supporting the expansion of the fast charge network. By working to establish these charging locations every 50 miles, we can meet the needs of the growing population of EV drivers. Congratulations to Columbia on becoming the 39th installation site. And we look forward to the positive impact this will bring to the community, he said. Columbia is one of 12 cities benefiting from a portion of the $5.2 million in funding from TVA and TDEX competitive grant program. This program supports the installation of 32 charging units at 13 sites across the state. The initiative is part of TVA's broader fast charge network, designed to reduce barriers to EV adoption by deploying fast chargers every 50 miles along major highways and interstates across its seven state service area by 2026. Chuck Yoast, Deputy Director of TDEX Office of Energy Programs added, "We at TDEX look forward to continuing our great partnership with TVA to build out a network of charging stations that will put Tennessee on the map as an EV epicenter of the United States." The fast charge Tennessee network developed through a partnership between TDEX and TVA aims to address infrastructure gaps by adding approximately 40 new charging locations along prioritized corridors. This initiative is crucial in supporting the growing use of EVs and reducing barriers to transportation electrification, ensuring a more sustainable future for Tennessee and beyond. Fairfield Inn in Columbia, which is managed and owned by Halifax Hospitality LLC, is thrilled to announce the completion of a significant renovation project designed to elevate the guest experience and modernize the hotel's amenities. Located conveniently off I-65 in Bear Creek Bike, the newly renovated Fairfield Inn Columbia offers an inviting atmosphere with refreshed spaces and updated facilities. The extensive renovations include guest room refreshes. All 79 guest rooms have been redesigned with contemporary decor, plush batting, and modern conveniences to be enjoyed by every guest. An expanded lobby area. The lobby has been transformed into a welcoming space with updated furnishings, enhanced technology, and expansive seating for those enjoying complimentary hot breakfast each morning, as well as for guests wanting to conduct business in an open setting. An enhanced meeting facility. The hotel now features updates to their meeting room that is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology perfect for business travelers and social gatherings for two to 40 people. And an outdoor patio. An inviting outdoor patio area that has been enhanced, providing guests with a serene space to relax and unwind in the fresh air, as well as enjoy the grills, cafe tables, and fireplace. We're excited to welcome both new and returning guests to experience our enhanced facilities, said Aaron Brewer, general manager, Fairfield Inn Columbia. These renovations reflect our commitment to providing a top-notch experience that meets the needs of our guests, while capturing the charm of Columbia, Tennessee, she said. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit mariotte.com/bnafc. The City of Columbia is proud to announce the successful completion of the Inaugural Columbia 101 program and initiative designed to engage residents with local government and community services. Held on September 17th and 18th, Columbia 101 provided participants with a unique hands-on opportunity to interact with city officials, learn about municipal services, and explore avenues for community involvement. Mayor Chasmolder praised the program's impact, stating, Columbia 101 gives our residents an opportunity to go behind the scenes and understand the inner workings of their local government. It bridges the gap between our administration and the community, fostering engagement, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility. I am proud of the success of this Inaugural program and excited to see it continue, he said. The two-day program kicked off at the Columbia Police Department, where attendees were introduced to the City's 12 departments, including development services, fire and rescue, and public works. Participants also toured select facilities gaining firsthand insights into how vital city services are delivered. City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the long-term benefits of the initiative. Columbia 101 is an integral part of the City of Columbia's long-term strategic plan to build a well-informed and engaged community. By educating residents about city operations and resources, we empower them to contribute to the growth and development of Columbia. The program was created and facilitated by marketing coordinator Lexi Dearborn, who explained the vision behind Columbia 101. The city is committed to strengthening transparency between residents and local government. Columbia 101 was designed with that goal in mind, providing an opportunity for residents to gain valuable insights into city operations. Our aim is to build a more informed and engaged community that plays an active role in shaping Columbia's future, she said. Participants shared positive feedback with one attendee remarking. There is so much to be proud of here in Columbia. There is an abundance of riches in the quality of government in all departments. Columbia 101 is an experience everyone should take advantage of. Columbia 101 will be offered twice per year and is open to all City of Columbia and Murray County residents. The next session will be announced in the coming months, and those interested are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit the City of Columbia's website at www.ColumbiaTN.gov. The Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting sobriety roadside safety checkpoints during the week of October 4th on State Route 50 at the Zero Mile Marker in Murray County, starting at 10 p.m. Impaired driving is a serious crime that kills more than 16,000 people and injures 305,000 people every year in the United States. Troopers will evaluate drivers for signs of alcohol or drug impairment. Troopers will target those who operate a vehicle while impaired and take corrective actions for other violations observed while ensuring the protection of all motorists. The Tennessee Highway Patrol recognizes that sobriety checkpoints are highly visible and effective tools in the battle against impaired driving. Tennessee has, I'm sorry, tourism has once again demonstrated its significant economic impact on the region according to new data released recently by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. The second largest industry in the state continues a steady increase as the latest tourism data for 2023 reveals that visitors to Columbia and Murray County contributed a substantial $136.8 million in direct visitor spending to the local economy, representing a 7.96% increase over the previous year. This impressive growth is a testament to the area's thriving tourism industry, which continues to attract visitors from far and wide. Columbia's diverse offerings, including the historic downtown district in Main Street, the arts district, historic sites, natural attractions, recreation and vibrant cultural events have made it a popular destination for travelers. Visitors spending injects real money into the local economy, supporting small businesses while generating sales and lodging tax revenue. This economic impact is crucial for the overall health and prosperity of Columbia and Murray County. The local tourism industry supports 955 jobs in Columbia and Murray County during 2023 and generated approximately $13.9 million in state and local taxes. Additionally, visitor spending contributed approximately $34.3 million in labor income. "I'm thrilled to see that our community's investment and tourism is paying off," said Columbia Mayor Chasmolder. The positive economic impact report highlights the significant contributions of visitors to our local businesses and economy. This data confirms that tourism is a crucial driver of growth and prosperity for our town," he said. Columbia and Murray County's strong tourism performance has solidified its position among the top 20 counties as a leading destination in Tennessee. The county maintains its ranking at number 20 in visitor spending among all 95 Tennessee counties, demonstrating its continued success in attracting visitors and driving economic growth. "Tourism is a vital industry for Columbia, providing jobs, generating tax revenue and enhancing our quality of life," said Kelly Murphy, a tourism director for Visit Columbia. "The continued growth in visitor spending demonstrates the vibrancy of our local businesses and attractions, as well as the dedication and effectiveness of our Visit Columbia marketing team to attract visitors and showcase our unique city," she said. And looking at the broader economic impact of tourism across the state, Tennessee welcomed 144 million visitors in 2023, which generated an impressive $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending, supporting 191,522 jobs and generating $3.15 billion in state and local tax revenue. The economic impact of visitor spending is a direct benefit to the citizens of Columbia and Murray County, because it translates to approximately $352 in tax savings for every household in the county. And the positive impacts of visitor spending extend beyond economic benefits to include the thriving economy of local businesses, the preservation of cultural heritage and the enrichment of the overall community experience. In honor of Mount Pleasant's 200th anniversary, the community will host a bicentennial home tour on September 27th and September 28th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This special event will offer an exclusive look inside some of the town's most beautiful and historic buildings, providing a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and charm of Mount Pleasant. The bicentennial home tour will feature a carefully curated selection of homes that represent the diverse architectural heritage of Mount Pleasant. This tour is not just about viewing beautiful homes, it's about celebrating our community's legacy and the people who have shaped it over the past 200 years, said Haverly Pennington, director of Main Street, Mount Pleasant. We're excited to share Mount Pleasant's history with residents and visitors alike, she said. Tickets are available for purchase at Mount Pleasant Visitor Center and Murray County Visitor Center for $35 each. Proceeds from the event will benefit Main Street, Mount Pleasant. For more information on Main Street, Mount Pleasant, tickets or volunteer rules, please visit the Mount Pleasant Visitor Center at 205 North Main Street in Mount Pleasant. "We are grateful for the support "of our co-chair Jennifer Graham and volunteers "who are helping to make this event a success," said Pennington. "Their commitment to Mount Pleasant's future "is a testament to the spirit of our community." She said. So come celebrate Mount Pleasant's rich past and bright future. Mark your calendar's Columbia, room in the inn's biggest fundraiser of the year is just around the corner. On October 4th, the community is invited to join in the October Fest festivities and support a fantastic local cause. Room in the Inn is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, resources and hope to single mothers and their children in need. Their latest project, Grace House, aims to create a safe, supportive living space with individual beds, private bedrooms and bathrooms, a community kitchen and laundry facilities. All proceeds from this year's October Fest event will go directly towards the construction of Grace House, making a real difference in the lives of local families. So what can you expect at this year's October Fest celebration? Plenty of fun, food and community spirit. The event will take place on October 4th at Riverwalk Park in Columbia from six to 10 p.m. Guests will be able to enjoy local craft beer tastings, delicious fare from food trucks, live music and traditional October Fest games and activities. Riverwalk Park is located at 102 Riverside Drive in Columbia. The Athenium Rectory, one of Columbia's premier historic sites located at 808 Athenium Street will be hosting their annual Candlelight Tour on September 28th from 7 to 9 p.m. Come tour the Athenium the way it needs to be seen by nothing but Candlelight and learn the morning customs of the 19th century. Take its $10 per person and available at the door. The ticket price goes towards the perpetual upkeep of the Athenium Rectory historic site. You can learn more by visiting www.historicathenium.com. Columbia Main Street is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated second annual Fall Fest, scheduled to take place on September 28th from 2 to 8 p.m. in downtown Columbia. This event presented in partnership with Kiwanis of Columbia promises to be a day filled with family-friendly activities in the heart of downtown. This community festival includes free admission to listen to live entertainment, enjoy a fun zone for all ages, pose in front of the Tri-Greens tractor photo booth, watch the Miss Murray County Fall Fest pageant and paint a mini pumpkin. In conjunction with Fall Fest, the Kiwanis Club of Columbia is proud to present the annual Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off from 3 to 5 p.m. on the square. This autumn tradition brings chefs from all over Murray County to decide whose Chili reigns supreme. Tickets are $10 each at the event and children 10 and under are free. Also, be sure to visit the Kiwanis Kid Zone at Fall Fest for face painting, complimentary, snow cones, inflatables and more. Additionally, attendees can support local businesses by shopping with artisan craft vendors, eating from delicious food trucks or pre-registering to participate in the Miss Murray County Fall Fest pageant. Bring a lawn chair and your dancing shoes because you're going to be singing along and having a great time with each of the bands, says Kelly Johnson, Columbia Main Street Manager. "We are excited to expand Fall Fest this year by closing down the entire square, providing ample space for attendees to fully immerse themselves in the festivities while exploring all that downtown Columbia has to offer," said Johnson. "We are privileged to partner with so many local businesses and organizations that work hard to produce amazing products, excellent food, and great customer experiences that help transform events like this that create memorable moments for those in attendance. We hope that you enjoy the craft vendors, food trucks, the bands, and all the activities for every age," she said. For more information about the second annual Fall Fest, including how to participate or volunteer, please visit www.columbiamainstreet.com or follow Columbia Main Street on social media. For your Southern Middle Tennessee weather, we will have clouds early with a few showers developing during the afternoon. The high will reach 78 degrees with light and variable winds. The chance of rain today? 30%. Tonight, we can expect cloudy skies to become clear overnight. The low will be 58 degrees with light and variable winds. Let's take a break. When we come back, we'll cover state and national news that affect you. You're listening to Southern Middle Tennessee today. As years go by, people may tend to forget just what a funeral is really all about. At Oaks and Nichols, we believe it's first, at all ways, a special remembrance of someone you love. We start by listening to your needs and desires. If you're unsure, we can help gently, professionally. At Oaks and Nichols' funeral directors, we haven't lost sight of why we're here, to serve Murray County families in the ways they prefer. And why your satisfaction is so important to Jeff Hargrove and Susie Sowell. There's a great deal of satisfaction in serving a family and serving them well. It's an eye for detail and thoughtfulness and taking the time to see that things are done right. We do have nice facilities and good people, and we work hard to do things well, but we don't want that to intimidate people as to what they think it will cost. Taking care of you is our primary concern. Oaks and Nichols' funeral directors, 320 West 7th Street in Columbia. Since 1856, people you can rely on. This is Debbie Matthews with the National Reluity Group. And if you've been paying attention, you know the housing market has been tough, but rates are beginning the thaw. So if you're thinking about selling, the time to jump in is getting better every day. But if you're thinking about buying, and those interest rates are still a little bit too high, a good agent knows how to negotiate interest rate by downs. And I'm a good agent. So call me, Debbie Matthews with National Relty Group, 615-476-3224. - Family first. My dad used to tell us that all the time. But family first wasn't just something he'd say to us. It was how he lived every day of his life. And it's how I try to live mine too. At Shelter Insurance, our agents are dedicated to helping provide personalized auto, home, and life protection that puts your family first. - For Auto Home, Life, or Business Insurance, C Shelter Agent Tommy Hyde Jr. at 388-2009. - For 40 years, the Jewelers bench has worked hard for their customers and provided the highest quality jewelry at the best price. They keep going back. Recent renovations have allowed them to expand their inventory, more high quality jewelry, custom vintage and estate pieces, and professional jewelry and watch repairs. They also buy gold. The Jewelers bench, still here, still great service. 808, Troutwood Avenue, Columbia. - Hi, I'm Matt Parralis, Manager of Murray County Equipment. We help you with all your agricultural and construction equipment needs. We carry a full line of new haul and tractors from compacts to high horsepower. We have a full line of gravely mowing equipment. We also have new hauling construction equipment, attachments and accessories for your tractors and a complete parts department. We are locally owned and operated. Come see us at 1075, North James Campbell Boulevard, or learn about us on Facebook. Our contact is at 931-490-8183. - Let's face it, the world's constantly changing and it is now more important than ever to take care of those who you trust with your business every day. Large and even international competition has made it increasingly difficult to keep your best talent. With Caledonian Financial's local business plan to help, you can give your employees a business package that is competitive and effective for everyone. I'm Thomas Nade with Caledonian Financial here in downtown Columbia. - Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through NBC Securities Incorporated, member FINRA and SIPC. - Hello, my name is Connor Mims. My wife, Bradley and I live in Columbia, Tennessee and Riverside. I am a deck and porch builder and my wife is a second grade teacher at Riverside Elementary. My specialty is designing and building elegant and comfortable porches and decks. Let me work with you to design and build the portrait deck of your dreams. Give us a call today from our website, mimsmodernlandscape.com. That's mimsmodernlandscape.com and check out what we have to offer. Thanks. - This is Bob Kessel with Pat Ryan. It's a beautiful day for digging. The vacu-operator has the engine running and is moving into position. He's heading for the ground. He's in there. Wait, there's a flag on the play. Let's get out of the field for the call from our official. - A legal procedure on the digging team. - Oh, that penalty could cause a costly accident. - That's right, Bob. He needs to call before he digs. There's underground utility lines that could be hiding just below the surface. Water, sewer, electrical, communication lines and even natural gas. Avoid a penalty by first calling 8-1-1 to have any underground public utility lines located at marked with flags or paint. It's free, it's easy and it's the law. For more tips, visit pipesafety.org. This message brought to you by the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters and the Tennessee Gas Association. Funded in part by a grant from the Underground Utility Damage Enforcement Board. (upbeat music) (upbeat music) - Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM 101.7 and WKRM 103.7. Your hometown source for news and information. I'm Tom Price. And I'm news from around the state. The Covenant School, where a mass shooting left six people dead last year, is launching a capital campaign for a new campus when a three year lease agreement ends for its long time church location, school officials said on Tuesday. The private Christian elementary school in Nashville was the site of a March 27th, 2023 shooting where three adults and three children were killed by a shooter armed with two assault style rifles and a handgun. Following the tragedy, the school last year moved to a temporary location at Brentwood Hills Church of Christ where congregants welcomed 200 students and staff and scrambled to convert small Bible study rooms into classrooms. The school in April returned to its original location at Covenant Presbyterian Church after a year of renovations and security upgrades. Covenant Presbyterian founded Covenant School in 2001 and has long been supported the school through the two, though the two are separate organizations. But the school will soon be looking for a new campus Covenant Presbyterian and Covenant School said in a joint statement on Tuesday. After thorough discussions, it was determined that the Covenant School would return to its campus under a three year rent-free lease agreement with continued financial support from the church. The statement said, both the church and the school remain deeply committed to working together to ensure the school's future success. We're excited about the future of both the church and the school and we will continue in our support to present our present, I'm sorry, we will continue our present relationship as the school launches a capital campaign to support a new campus. Officials did not elaborate on why the school is relocating. The past year has been a struggle for students, parents, and staff as they worked to heal from a shooting that claimed the head of school, Catherine Coons, 59, Custodian Mike Hill, 61, substitute teacher Cynthia Peake, 61, and nine year old third graders, Evelyn Dicouse, William Kinney, and Haley Scruggs, the Covenant Presbyterian pastor's daughter. Police killed the shooter 14 minutes after the initial 911 call. The shooting sparked mass calls for stricter gun control laws and fierce debate and legal wrangling over the release of the shooter's writings. Let's take one last to break. When we come back, we'll cover the final story of the day. You're listening to Southern Middle Tennessee today. Turner and Osborne Tire Company 1016 South Main Street in Columbia, give a call at 931-388-6822. They've been doing business since 1947 and in their current location since 1964. They provide the best tire and mechanical work at some of the best prices in middle Tennessee. Hey, they're official Michelin and Goodyear dealers and they've got all kinds of brands as well. Stop by and see Walker Vining and his professional staff or check them out online at turner@osburn.com that's turner@osburn.com. - Looking for a physician? Choosing a healthcare provider for your family is one of the most important decisions you will make. Murray Regional Medical Group delivers primary care for individuals of all ages from newborns to adults and has an array of specialists ranging from endocrinologists to urologists with locations in Murray, Lewis, Marshall and Wayne Counties. Our experience team can provide you with quality care close to home. For more information, visit murrayregionalmedicalgroup.com, murrayregionalmedicalgroup. Your health is our primary care. - This is Howlanders, owner of Landers Insurance Agency. We are independent agency representing the famous Erie Insurance Group. Landers Insurance Agency has been committed to providing great rates and great service since 2002. Whether it's home and auto or business or life insurance, we've got you covered 24/7 in-house claim service. We've got that too. Visit Landers Insurance at 514 North Garden Street, Columbia. Call us at 931-380-2003. Our website is Landers Insurance Agency.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. - Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today and our final story. Pilgrimage Music Festival takes place this weekend, September 28th and 9th at Harlinsdale Farm located at 239 Franklin Road in Franklin. The two-day not-to-miss music and art festival features at least 10 hours of music each day with headliners including Dave Matthews Band, Hoseer, Need to Breathe, Charlie Worsham and Noah Kahan. There are a number of other great acts lined up to perform as well, including Wyatt Ellis, Trombone Shorty, Lucas Nelson and Promise of the Real, illiterate light, Grace Bowers and many more. Learn more at www.pilgrimagefestival.com. That's all for this edition of Southern Middle Tennessee today on Kennedy Broadcasting WKOMWKRM Radio. I'll be back tomorrow to update you with the latest news. I'm Tom Price. Thanks for listening. Be safe and have a great day. (upbeat music) (upbeat music) (upbeat music) (upbeat music)