Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-2-24
(upbeat music) - Hello and welcome to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM and WKRN Radio. Your hometown news broadcasting from the Debbie Matthews Nashville Realty Newsroom in Columbia, Tennessee. I'm your host, Tom Price. Today is Wednesday, October 2nd, and we start with local news. Following the aftermath of historical damage caused by tropical storm Haleen in the eastern parts of the state, many regional first response teams have been deployed to help with recovery efforts. On Sunday, 13th search and rescue members pulled from Columbia Fire and Rescue, Murray County Fire, Spring Hill Fire, and Lawrence County Fire were sent to the town of Erwin in Unicoix County, an area hit with some of the most devastating damage. We were told the initial deployment is expected to last three to seven days with all teams preparing to send a second wave of responders to relieve the current personnel if needed. Jeremy Finley, assistant fire chief for Columbia Fire and Rescue said, "A total of 13 team members are on site, equipped with hand tools, search tools, drones, and UTVs. They're reporting significant devastation to the region," he said. Finley added that despite being a disaster site with many homes damaged and flood waters rising, the Murray County team went to work right away and have been able to help many families affected by last week's storms. Our main task has been to assist and land-based operations, which is basically saying the rescue effort has concluded, and now we are just in search effort. Finley said, "Thus far, they have successfully completed multiple missions, providing medical aid, food, and essential supplies to the victims who remain trapped in their homes. We will continue to provide updates on their progress as the mission continues," he stated. Tennessee Valley Authority officials have reported that Holines damage rout totaled nearly 600 miles and was classified as a category four storm. Relief efforts are also underway nationwide with CityServe International launching a $5 million relief initiative in partnership with Spokes of Hope, 180 disaster relief, and Wings of the Spirit. The purpose is to deliver supplies to five states affected by Holine with water, food, clothes, and emergency supplies as soon as the roads are cleared and safely accessible. "Whenever a storm of this magnitude hits, we know we're on the clock right away," says CityServe co-founder and CEO Dave Donaldson. "People are in desperate need of help right away, so it's critical to get relief out to them immediately," he said. "For volunteer opportunities with CityServe, visit www.spokesofhopesc.com." On a local level, Finley said he is unaware of any relief efforts or nonprofits receiving donations for hurricane victims, at least not yet. The main thing right now is to ensure the safety of the residents. Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has asked people to stand down for a little bit, let them assess the area and make it accessible," Finley said, and then Tima will be the ones who will put out what they need, what the victims need, or where drop-off centers may be. After that, they will likely turn it over to the local organizations to pitch in. Murray County Public Schools are collecting the following items to support families affected by the devastation of Hurricane Holine, bottled water, both in cases and in gallon jugs, cleaning supplies like disinfectant wipes, bleach, mops, buckets, gloves, sponges, brooms, and trash bags. It's taking place now through Friday, October 4th, you can drop off any of those items at any Murray County Public School before fall break. Blood Assurance is an immediate need of blood and platelet donors after the devastating landfall of Hurricane Holine and its impact on the blood supply. The storm has caused widespread cancellations of appointments and blood drives across the service area. In addition, Blood Assurance is on standby this week with the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps, B-E-R-C, to provide immediate support to communities in need. B-E-R-C made up of 35 community blood centers across the United States collects extra units of blood on a rotating basis to be ready for disasters like this. These lifesaving donations are crucial in times of crisis. We're in critical need of O-negative, O-positive, and platelet donors, a spokesperson for Blood Assurance said, O-negative is the universal blood type, often used in emergencies, while O-positive is the most common blood type in the U.S. Platelets help control bleeding in our vital in emergency situations. We're also looking for AB plasma donors as AB is the universal plasma type. You can visit www.bloodassurance.org/schedule, call 1-800-96-20628, or text the word B-A-give to the number 9999-777 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also accepted. Yesterday afternoon, the new Murray County Judicial Center was dedicated by county officials in front of a very large crowd, Frontport Radio's Delt Kennedy attended and spoke to Murray County Commission chairman, Kevin Markham, about the new facility. - This is Delt Kennedy, Frontport Radio. This afternoon, I am at the new Murray County Judicial Center. The ribbon has just been cut, the building is complete. It really looks magnificent. I'm talking with Kevin Markham, who is the chair of the Murray County Commission. Kevin, tell us about what happened here. - Delt, we're so happy for this day to finally get here. It's a beautiful building. It's a very functional building. I think when people get a chance to come to it, they're gonna see that it was money well spent, came in on time under budget, and it's just a fantastic building. - That is fantastic, on time and on budget. When do you expect county courts will move in here? - So the county court system will close down the week of the 14th of October, and they will use that week to move from the existing courthouse to the new justice center, and then they will open back up for a business on the 21st of October. - Wow, that's fantastic. - And I just wanna compliment the steering committee of which Judge Doug Chapman was the leader. He and Travis Jones sorta led that whole process, but they're the ones that got the functionality out of this new building. - It's just amazing, on time and on budget. Congratulations, Chairman, Kevin Markham, Murray County Commission. - Thank you, sir, I appreciate it. - Thank you. - In just over a month, registered voters will take to the polls and cast their ballots in the November 5th general election, and that includes many local races. In Columbia, five seats representing the city's five wards and Columbia City Council are among the races. This includes nine candidates. Two current council members, Tony Green of Ward 3 and Danny Coleman of Ward 5 will not seek re-election. As early voting rapidly approaches in Columbia, running October 16th through the 26th and October 28th to the 31st, the Murray County Chamber and Economic Alliance hosted a special candidate for them on Monday at Columbia State Community Colleges led better auditorium, specifically focusing on the city council candidates. Each candidate introduced themselves and pitched to voters why they are the ideal choice to represent their respective ward. Each question was chosen at random by Murray Alliance President Will Evans, who moderated the event. Topics discussed range from growth and infrastructure to the greatest challenge facing Columbia, currently and/or over the foreseeable future. Of the nine candidates, six were in attendance for Monday's forum, of the five races, two are unopposed in wards three and four. Kicking things off with Ward 1's race featuring the highest number of candidates, which include incumbent Davina Hardison and challengers Michael Kuzowinsky and Robert Plagman. Kuzowinsky, who was first to speak, addressed the need for infrastructure in terms of how it can handle the continued growth, Columbia and Murray County continues to see year after year. It's no secret that there is development everywhere, like it seems that if we have a piece of grass, something is being developed there, Kuzowinsky said. To me, the very first thing we need to look at is what are our needs, not what are our conveniences or things we would like, but what are the needs of Columbia, he said. Kuzowinsky also commended, commended rather city staff for its continued success financially, namely its ability to provide raises to city employees in the midst of immense growth and development, and without the need to raise taxes. Plagman, a Nashville native and US Navy veteran, who moved his family to Columbia almost three years ago, was asked what thoughtful and sustainable growth meant to him, and how he would plan to support the idea if elected. To Plagman, it's being able to not lose sight on what came before to give Columbia its own charm, as well as the citizens and families who have come to call it home for generations. When we discuss growth, we get excited about what that brings to the city in terms of population, businesses, and so much more. But I think more often what happens is the city and the population already here gets left behind, Plagman said. Because we see tax dollars or money in our future, we forget to take care of what's already here, and what Columbia has been for several years, and we don't want to lose that, he said. Rounding out the word one discussions, incumbent Hardison was asked what she considers to be Columbia's biggest challenges. I see livability connected to the growth of the city, the issue of homelessness and educational improvements are our biggest challenges for the city of Columbia, Hardison said. These are areas that are challenges for our city that they will not defeat our citizens. I plan to acknowledge there is a concern in all three of those areas, and I plan to do as part of a team to continue to have the infrastructure to play in place to support all of those wanting to become a Columbian and enjoy what we enjoy, she said. Ward 2's candidates include incumbent Debbie Wiles, who will face off against incoming challenger Charles Huffman. Huffman was unable to attend Monday's forum for discussion. Wiles, who was sworn into office in 2022 following the passing of her husband and former Ward 2 Councilman Ken Wiles, said the experience has been highly educational, as well as important. It's one she isn't ready to give up just yet. While serving on city council, I've seen firsthand how local government works and have helped to make sound good decisions for our future, Wiles said. We should be proud of Columbia is as efficiently run city with sound fiscal management. Our money is being spent wisely, and I wanna continue serving on the council to help maintain and enhance the qualities we all love about our city. We have a good team, she said. Evans later asked Wiles opinion about how local government should work with neighboring municipalities, as well as the county to ensure the best decisions are being made on behalf of Columbia citizens. As city of Columbia people, we are also Murray County taxpayers, and I look forward to working together, Wiles said. The city of Columbia financially supports Murray Alliance, and I will continue to support that partnership. They serve Spring Hill, serve Mount Pleasant, and through those entities, we are one in that respect, she said. As one of the two races with unopposed candidates, Ward 3's ballot will include Cheryl Seacrest. Seacrest currently serves on various boards and committees throughout the county, including the Columbia Peace and Justice Initiative. Habitat for Humanity is an executive board member for the Murray County Democratic Party and serves with the Murray County branch of the NAACP. For her question, Seacrest was asked what thoughtful and sustainable growth is, and how she plans to make a positive impact. To her, success will be determined on how well the city can collaborate with the county and other entities, as well as having a vision beyond. We have growth here, and we need to make sure it is beneficial to everybody, not just in the city, but also in our rural areas, Seacrest said. We, along with the county commissioners, we all need to work together to make things better so that the residents here can benefit from things, not just those coming into the city, but the ones who are already here. That's my thing, that the residents in my ward can benefit from what the city is doing in other areas, and that the third ward is included, she said. In combat, Kenny Marshall is running unopposed in the word for race, and therefore did not attend to Monday's forum. Columbia's fifth ward also sees current councilman, Danny Coleman, not seeking reelection, leaving the vacancy open to candidates, Brian McAlvey and Curry Andrew Hart. Hart did not attend Monday's forum for discussion. McAlvey's career in local service includes serving his district five county commissioner from 2018 to 2022, as well as a board member on the Murray County Historical Society, the African American Heritage Society of Murray County, and the Crossroads to Home Coalition. In addition, McAlvey has served on the county's budget, building, health and environment, safety and audit committees. He was also appointed to the Public Records Commission and the Murray County Public Library Board. When it came time for his question, Evans asked McAlvey his opinion as far as Columbia's greatest challenge, looking ahead to 2025 and beyond. I want to see more controlled growth that the city and county have more collaboration together. McAlvey said, "I feel like that's kind of gone by the wayside, let's face it, what the city does affects the county and what the county does affects the city. We need to work together," he said. Dr. Beshoy Khalil, a specialist in podiatry, has joined the medical staff at Murray Regional Medical Center. He is associated with advanced foot and ankle care centers in Columbia and Spring Hill, and will be seeing patients at the Spring Hill location. Dr. Khalil received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City. He completed a podiatric residency at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. He is trained in all aspects of podiatric medicine, including extensive training in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Advanced foot and ankle care centers is located at 5073 Columbia Pike, Sweet 230 in Spring Hill. Dr. Khalil's office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from eight until five. For more information or to schedule an appointment, you can call 615-302-0340. In other Murray Regional News, Murray Regional Health announced it has received the advanced total hip and knee replacement certification from the Joint Commission. This certification demonstrates the hospital's commitment to providing evidence-based care to patients undergoing hip and knee replacement procedures. Murray Regional Health is one of four hospitals in the state of Tennessee, and the only in middle Tennessee that has achieved advanced certification. Murray Regional Medical Center's total hip and total knee program has been certified by the Joint Commission since 2011. The advanced certification adheres to additional standards. "We are incredibly honored to receive this certification from the Joint Commission," said CEO Dr. Martin Chaney. "This achievement is a testament to our commitment to clinical excellence and the trust our community places in us for their orthopedic care," he said. The Joint Commission is an independent nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies nearly 21,000 healthcare organizations and their programs in the United States. Their certifications are recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization's commitment to meeting rigorous performance standards. The advanced total hip and knee replacement certification is awarded to hospitals that meet rigorous standards and patient care and outcomes. As part of the certification process, Murray Regional Health underwent a comprehensive overview of its total hip and knee replacement programs, demonstrating adherence to best practices and continuous improvement in quality and safety. Orthopedic surgeries at Murray Regional Health are performed by physicians associated with Tennessee Orthopedic Alliance of Columbia. They are complemented by a team of highly skilled clinical professionals, including surgical technicians, nurses, anesthesiologists, physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists, care managers and many more, utilizing innovative and advanced technologies, such as Stryker's Mako system, enhanced shoulder system, infinity total ankle system and more. Murray Regional Medical Center also earned recognition in 2024 as one of America's 50 best hospitals for outpatient joint replacement and was an outpatient joint replacement excellence award recipient from Health Grades, the leading resource consumers used to find a hospital or doctor. Murray Regional Medical Center was also recognized by Health Grades as the number one orthopedic surgery program in Tennessee for 2024. In addition, Murray Regional Medical Center was named the only hospital in Tennessee to achieve the 2024 Patient Safety Excellence Award and Outstanding Patient Experience Award from Health Grades. And now your hometown memorials sponsored by Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Mrs. Dott Mayfield, 91, a retired cafeteria manager for Columbia Academy and a resident of Columbia died Tuesday, September 24th at her residence. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, October 3rd at 12 p.m. at Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Barry will follow at Palestine Cemetery. The family will visit with friends on Thursday, October 3rd from 10 until 12 at Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Patricia Joanne Llewellyn Owens, 90, a resident of Columbia died Monday, September 30th at NHC Murray Regional Transitional Care. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be extended at www.okson nickels.com. Home Town Memorials is sponsored by Oakson Nichols Funeral Home, serving with dignity and consideration for over 150 years. - As years go by, people may tend to forget just what a funeral is really all about. At Oakson Nichols, we believe it's first and always 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 Oakson 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 the way you feel has always been so important to Susie and Tony Sowell. - When people come here, I hope they feel like they're working with a person who's just like family. And by the time they leave here, I hope they feel like they're a part of our family. - What I like most is when a family is leaving, they can say thanks. - We made something we thought would be hard, easier than we thought it would be. Not that we made it easy, we made it easier. - Oakson Nichols Funeral Directors, 320 West 7th Street in Columbia, since 1856, people you can rely on. - For your southern middle Tennessee weather, we will have partly cloudy skies today with a high of around 79 degrees, winds will be light and variable. Tonight, we can expect to generally clear skies and a low of 56. 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. (air whooshing) Debbie Matthews grew up and lives in beautiful Coolum, but Tennessee has a realtor. She is well versed in homes, neighborhoods, development and schools. She wants to share her love of her home state with others to help them find just the right place to raise a family, open a business or develop a dream. From luxury listings to land, she can handle it all. She is the current leading producer, Nashville Realty Group Contact Debbie Matthews Realtor at 615-476-3224. That's 615-476-3224. - Family first. (laughs) 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, Trotwood Avenue, Columbia. - Hi, I'm Matt Peralis, 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 morn equipment. We also have new haul and 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. - Every morning, I park my car across the street from my business and I can't wait to get in there. That's pretty common for small business owners. We have the added satisfaction, however, of guiding hundreds of families with their retirement, education, savings and general investments. We're a locally owned business that tries very hard to simplify a complicated world. This is Monty Sneid from Caledonian Financial in historic 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. (upbeat music) - This is Bob Kessel with Pat Ryan. It's a beautiful day for digging. The vacuum operator has the engine running and it's 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 now news from around the state. The Tennessee Department of Transportation has announced a six-week lane closure on a loop in downtown Nashville. The ramp from Interstate 40 westbound to Interstate 65 southbound on the downtown loop will temporarily shut down on October 1st from 11 p.m. until October 2nd at 5 a.m. for striping following the closure. The ramp will be reduced to a single lane through November 15th. The closure is needed for crews to repair the bridge on the I-40 Westmerge ramp over the I-65 Northmerge ramp. TDOT set in a news release. The project is part of a full bridge deck replacement including the spot painting of bearings and beams, announced TDOT. All work is weather dependent. As always, drivers are reminded to allow additional time, slow down and moveover when traveling through a work zone, TDOT said. The moveover law was passed in 2006. The penalty for violating the law in Tennessee carries the possibility of up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of up to $500. Tennessee Secretary of State Trey Hargut reminds all eligible Tennessee residents that they must register to vote by 11.59 p.m. on Monday, October 7th to be eligible to cast a ballot in the November 5th state and federal general election. "When you don't vote, you turn over the keys of power to those who do vote. In Tennessee, we want every eligible Tennessee to vote, but first, you must register to vote," said Secretary Hargut. "To make sure your voice is heard in the upcoming election, Tennesseeans must register or make sure their registration is current before the deadline," he said. "Registering to vote, updating or checking your registration status is fast, easy, and secure with the Secretary of State's online voter registration system, govotetn.gov or the app govotetn.app. Using a computer, phone, or tablet, citizens with a driver's license or a photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Homeland and Safety and Homeland Security can register in a matter of minutes. Voters can also download a paper voter registration application at govotetn.gov. Completed, paper voter registration applications must be mailed to your local county election commission office or submitted in person. Mailed voter registrations must be postmarked by October 7th and Election Day registration is not available in Tennessee." Let's take one last 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, Coca-Cola 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 and osmburn.com. Living with a worn joint can be painful and frustrating. Leave your joint pain in the past with a joint replacement procedure at Murray Regional Health. Our joint replacement program has been recognized in the top 10% of the nation for medical excellence and patient safety thanks to our highly skilled and experienced surgical staff who perform progressive procedures for the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, and ankles. For more information, go to murriregional.com/jointreplacement Murray Regional Health where clinical excellence meets compassionate care. This is Hal Landers, owner of Landers Insurance Agency. We are an 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 landersinsuranceagency.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. (upbeat music) - Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today and our final story. The Grand Ole Opry country music's most famous stage will celebrate its 99th birthday with three nights of Opry shows plus daytime and evening special events from October 10th through the 13th, including performances by Opry members Daley and Vincent, The Gatlin Brothers, Crystal Gayle, Lori Morgan and Rhonda Vincent, along with Opry next stage alums, Riley Green and Chappell Hart, Grammy Award winner Gretchen Wilson, and the Opry debut of singer-actress Katherine McVee. Fans are also invited to the Opry Plaza for free live music and family-friendly activities presented by Country Financial to celebrate the Opry's birthday on Friday evening, October 11th and all day Saturday and Sunday, October 12th and 13th. Packages and tickets for all 2024 Opry shows, including Opry Country Classics and Opry Country Christmas are available for purchase at www.opry.com. That's all for this edition of Southern Middle Tennessee today on Kennedy Broadcasting, WKOM, WKRM 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)