Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-3-24
(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 Thursday, October 3rd, and we start with local news. Beginning a new chapter of the county's modern history, county and city officials celebrated Tuesday, the unveiling of the long-awaited Murray County Judicial Center on South Main Street in Columbia. The two-story judicial center plus abasement now stands at the former site of the Daily Herald newspaper, which was demolished two years ago, almost to the day of the ribbon-cutting celebration on Tuesday. Over 100 people, including local officials, county chamber members and supporters, attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony and self-guided tour of the approximately $36 million facility that will relieve Columbia's iconic, but overcrowded historic courthouse at the center of the town square. The new facility offers six courtrooms, private consultation areas for attorneys and clients, judges, administrative chambers, holding cells on the lower level and general meeting rooms. General Sessions Court Judge Bobby Sands said the new facility will make the court's daily operations more efficient and provide greater safety and privacy for attorneys and clients. Former Murray County Commission Chairman Don Morrow, whose spearheaded the project when he served on the commission, said he remembers talk about building a new court facility as far back as 1994, with some estimates reaching almost $40 million then. Addressing the crowd, Morrow said he is proud to see the facility come to fruition after a long time planning and debating about funding. We funded this building for $36 million without using property taxes. I feel like this building represents new South progress. Signs were once posted at Columbia City Limits that read old South charm, new South progress. I think that explains it all, Morrow said. This is a free building, a gift to taxpayers. We are lucky and blessed to have this facility, he said. Murray County Commission Chairman Kevin Markham introduced project leaders, welcomed guests and congratulated Murray County Commissioners present and past, those responsible for erecting the facility. Former commission chairman Eric Pravitti praised the efforts of the commission in supporting the funding of the building during the ceremony. Jamie Spencer, president of Hewlett Spencer, explained the concept behind the interior design of the building adorned with historic photos displayed on frosted glass along the dramatically long corridors on the first and second floors of the complex. The art displays pay homage to old Murray County in a modern building, Spencer said. The historic photos depict collections from the Murray County Archives compiled by former Murray County Archives director Bob Duncan, the current archive staff and Murray County historian Joanne McClellan. Spencer also explained that light fixtures from the Daily Herald building were preserved, refurbished and hung in each foyer at the entrance of all six courtrooms, three on the first floor and three on the second floor. Juvenile court judge Doug Chapman toured the facility with his family on Tuesday, calling it a functional building above all. This facility will bring enhanced safety to the courthouse functionality, provide private meeting spaces and provide six courtrooms that will allow us to hear multiple cases leading to shorter backlogs, Chapman said. The old historic courthouse in Columbia will still house the mayor's office and some court clerks while the first floor will be turned into a museum. The new court facility will open officially to accommodate staff in the public on October 14th. Murray Regional Medical Center offers its patients the latest in surgical technology and a surgeon on the medical staff has reached an impressive milestone with one of the hospital's robotic systems. Dr. Mark S. Hinson, a board certified specialist in general robotic and breast surgery, performed his 500th procedure at Murray Regional Medical Center with the da Vinci XI surgical system. "Performing my 500th surgery with the da Vinci robotic system is an incredible milestone and it's been rewarding," said Dr. Hinson. "Every procedure feels like an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a patient's life, offering them a less invasive approach and a faster recovery. I'm grateful to have this technology at my fingertips," he said. Dr. Hinson joined the medical staff at Murray Regional Health in 1998. He is one of 12 surgeons who perform robotic assisted procedures with the da Vinci at Murray Regional Medical Center. The da Vinci XI was first implemented at Murray Regional Medical Center in 2018, followed by another in 2022. It utilizes advanced robotic, computer and optical technologies, including a high definition and highly magnified 3D vision system and mechanical wrists that bend and rotate to mimic the movements of the human wrist. As more surgeons have joined the medical staff, the medical center added two more da Vinci systems in 2024, bringing the total to four. The system allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures in the areas of urology, gynecology, thoracic and general surgery. Benefits of the minimally invasive approach for patients typically include minimal blood loss, less pain and a faster recovery time. "My hernia procedure was a breeze and I have no complaints. I didn't even need to take pain medications after my surgery," said Eva James Kriton, a resident of Murray County and Dr. Hinson's 500th robotic surgery patient with the da Vinci. "The staff were kind and caring during my stay and Dr. Hinson made frequent visits to check in on me before and after surgery. I appreciate how present, attentive and informative he was," she said. For more information about the da Vinci XI surgical system and other surgeons who utilize this technology, visit www.mouryregional.com/divinci. Following the aftermath of historical damage caused by tropical storm Halloween in the eastern parts of the state, many regional first response teams have been deployed to help with recovery efforts. On Sunday, 13 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 Unicorn County, an area hit with some of the most devastating damage. We were told the initial development deployment, rather, 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 floodwaters 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 in land-based operations, which is basically saying the rescue effort has concluded, and now we are adjusted 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 said. Tennessee Valley Authority officials have reported that Holines' damage route totaled nearly 600 miles and was classified as a Category 4 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 Holines 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 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 Timo will be the ones who will pull out what they need, what the victims need, or where drop-off centers need to be. After that, they will likely turn it over to the local organizations to pitch in. There are some efforts happening locally. Murray County Public Schools are collecting the following items to support families affected by the devastation of Holine, bottled water, including cases and gallon jugs, cleaning supplies like disinfected wipes and bleach, mops, buckets, gloves, sponges, brooms and trash bags. It's taking place now through Friday, October 4th. You can drop-off items in any Murray County Public School before fall break. The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Lister Hill Credit Union is excited to announce the launch of the Think Shop Explore Local Passport Campaign, an initiative designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore and support the diverse range of local businesses in Spring Hill. This exciting campaign will run from October 1st through October 31st offering participants a chance to win a grand prize hall valued at thousands of dollars. Starting October 1st, visitors can pick up their local passport at any participating business or the Spring Hill Chamber Welcome Center located at 5326 Main Street, Sweet G. To qualify for the grand prize, participants simply need to collect stickers from a minimum of 15 participating businesses and return their completed passports by October 31st to the Welcome Center. Those who complete their passports entirely will be entered into the grand prize drawing twice, doubling their chances of winning. The campaign features an array of local stops, including restaurants, retail shops, health centers and more. Some of the featured stops include Aha Indian Grill, The Awaken House, The Spot, Burgers and Beers, Hampton Inn Spring Hill, Light Hill Meats, TriStar ER Spring Hill, Williamson Health, Bone and Joint Institute and many more. A comprehensive list of all participating businesses and an interactive map is available online, guiding participants on their local adventure. For an extra entry into the grand prize drawing, participants can take photos at designated community photo stops, including the Spring Hill Library, City Hall and Fisher Park. Simply post your photo on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #shpassport24 to earn an additional chance to win. The grand prize hall includes an incredible assortment of gifts and vouchers from participating businesses, offering one lucky winner a prize worth thousands of dollars. This includes gifts from notable local businesses such as Lister Hill Credit Union, Toei Club and Bird Song Social, brunch collective and many others. Once you've collected at least 15 stickers, return your passport to the Spring Hill Chamber Welcome Center at 5326 Main Street, Sweet G by October 31st. A drop box is available for after hours submissions, ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate. The Think Shop Explore Local Passport Campaign is an excellent way to discover new businesses, support local economy and engage with the Spring Hill community. So grab your passport, explore all that Spring Hill has to offer and get ready for a fun-filled October with plenty of opportunities to win big. For more information, visit Spring Hill Chamber's website or contact the Spring Hill Chamber Welcome Center at 931-486-0625. 568 Campers-packed Spring Hills Fish Apart for a weekend of outdoor activities at the third annual Spring Hill Camping in the park that took place September 21st and second, made possible by the Union Sportsman's Alliance or USA, United Auto Workers Local 1853, Spring Hill Parks and Recreation and the Bearden Group, Fisher Park was filled with nearly 150 campsites, archery, rock climbing and obstacle course, Frisbee Golf, a scavenger hunt, backyard bass and an outdoor movie, we're all involved in the weekend activities. Over 300 kids were present and their engagement is a reason why USA Conservation Coordinator, Cody Campbell, called the event a success. "This event was one for the books for the USA," he said. "The partnership with the city of Spring Hill Parks "and Recreation is what made it all possible. "This is the largest non-fishing youth event "the USA has been a part of. "We had a lot of firsts at this one "and it was amazing to see the smiles and excitement "these kids had getting their first introduction "to the outdoors," he said. Casey Williams, Spring Hill Parks and Recreation Director said factors such as affordability, location convenience and quality activities all contribute to the event's popularity. "We had about 80 campsites last year "and this year we had 143. "We feel like this event will continue to grow year after year," Williams said, "Not only because it is fun, "but also because it gives people an opportunity "to see if they like camping without having to spend "a ton of money on gear or travel far." Hopefully, camping out becomes something that they will continue to do so they can experience this beautiful country in a whole new way, she said. Volunteers with UAW Local 1853 provided all the food and cooked hot dogs for attendees. "This partnership is more than just a once a year event "for us," Williams said. "It is something we lean into year round. "Conservation awareness, green space planning, "outdoor experiences are all part of our platform as well. "Also, Spring Hill is the home of the USA headquarters, "so it and its members are part of our city's DNA, "part of our community family. "We look forward to many more years of working together "with the USA," she said. Camping in the park was a part of a series of free community-based youth outreach activities organized under work boots on the ground, the USA's flagship conservation program. Spending time outdoors opens them up to a huge new world that can provide so much fun and serenity to balance out the stresses and negativity of other things in kids' lives. Williams said about the benefits of being outside. Fresh air, open spaces, exploration, physical activity, changes in scenery and new experiences can have a big impact on our state of mind and our overall health, she said. 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 6 to 10 PM. 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. And now your hometown memorials sponsored by Oaks & Nichols Funeral Home. Patricia Joan 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.oxandnichols.com. Home Sound Memorials is sponsored by Oaks & 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 Oaks & Nichols, we believe it's first at 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 Oaks & 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 Matt and Susie Sowo believe the way to honor tradition is with especially personal service. We believe your traditions, your customs, your rites of passage are very important. But we also believe in taking care of your personal wishes as well. At Oaks & Nichols, we try to do more than just the expected things. So the service you receive honors your heritage and is uniquely yours. And we invite you to experience the difference. Oaks & 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 clouds early with peaks of sunshine expected late. The high will be 84 degrees with light and variable winds. Tonight, we can expect partly cloudy skies with increasing clouds late. The low will be 63. 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. - Here we go. - Debbie Matthews-Rilter and her husband, Jason, who is a pro songwriter also own a music publishing company. They live in historic downtown Columbia with their dogs. Dog rescue work is their passion project. They consider Middle Tennessee their backyard and their lives are full of all things Tennessee. Debbie says there is no greater honor than to help someone find a home. To be trusted with that job, there is no greater privilege to call Debbie at the Nashville Realty Group 615-476-3224, 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, Sea 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. - Some people are just obsessed with their lawns. They'd cut their grass with a pair of scissors if they could. Bikes to gravely, they don't have to. You see, gravely makes not only the best built and most comfortable lawnmowers, they also leave your house looking like a doggone country club. So whether you're a commercial landscaper wanting the best or just a perfectionist homeowner, you keep do better than a gravely. - See our full line of gravely products at Murray County Equipment. 1075 North James Campbell Boulevard in Columbia, Tennessee, or check us out on Facebook. - One of our objectives at Caledonian Financial is to impact our clients and friends in a positive manner. Whether it's a friendly voice, a smile and a wave as we walk past our office or support in our community, the Caledonian team is actively involved. Through our memberships and Kiwanis, rotary, Murray Alliance Circle of Excellence, volunteering in Boy Scouts in 4-H, serving on a variety of boards and more, we stay connected to Murray County. This is Daisy Cook with Caledonian Financial in Historic Downtown Columbia. - Securities and Investment Advisory Services offer through NBC Securities Incorporated, Member FINRA and SIPC. - Hello, my name is Connor Mims. My wife, Bradley and I live in Columbia, Tennessee in 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 a 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. Tobacco 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 go down to 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) - 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'll news from around the state. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee is asking President Joe Biden to expedite federal funds for Hurricane Halene relief. Expedited funding already has been approved in Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina, but not the flood-ravaged counties in East Tennessee. Lee declared a state of emergency in Tennessee on September 27th and requested funds and assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The declarations allow aid workers and officials to bypass certain bureaucratic regulations to provide support to impacted areas. Lee wrote again to Biden September 30th to request even more assistance faster. He specifically mentioned Carter, Johnson, and Unicorn counties. It's evident that something historically horrific has happened here. Lee said against the backdrop of the destroyed Interstate 26 bridge. At the same time, it is hopeful as I see this community come together, he said. Lee touted the collaboration between locals, state, and federal officials, but acknowledged that the situation is still unfolding. There's a lot unknown. There's a lot without water. There's a lot without power. But we're doing what we're working to do something about that, he said. The federal government has intervened in some ways. US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. On September 30th declared a public health emergency for South Carolina and Tennessee to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. The agency is sending 200 health experts to assess hospitals, nursing homes, and medical centers. The team brings in equipment and supplies. The Small Business Administration is offering low interest loans for business and homeowners affected by the floods. Six deaths have been confirmed in East Tennessee. Three bodies were found near the town of Erwin and Unicorn County where employees of impact plastic clung for their lives atop a semi-truck while flood waters rushed in. That's the site of a daring rooftop rescue at Unicorn County Hospital. Lee, also on September 30th, empowered the Tennessee Department of Transportation Secretary to seek emergency contracts to repair state and local bridges and roads. Floods forced the closure of 14 state bridges on state routes, and five of those are completely gone. TDOT Deputy Commissioner Will Reed said during a news conference September 30th. That means the bridges are beyond repair. They must be completely rebuilt to reconnect communities. Officials and rescue crews are working to get supplies to those separated from the rest of their communities. In Unicorn, that looks like off-road vehicles driving to remote areas with supplies and information. A team of reported approximately 9,600 power outages across the state midday on September 30th and several counties reported problems due to flooding at wastewater treatment plants and drinking water facilities. Over last week, gas prices across the state fluctuated higher to $2.80, but ultimately fell over the weekend to $2.76 the same price as one week ago. The Tennessee gas price average is now $2.76, which is $0.18 less expensive than one month ago and $0.56 less than one year ago. We've seen some fluctuation in our state gas prices over the last two weeks, but the silver lining is that Tennessee has the fourth least expensive state gas price average in the country. Said Megan Cooper spoke soon for AAA, the Auto Club Group, it's likely that we'll continue to see fluctuations in gas prices across the state this week. 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, Good McCall 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, their official Michelin and Goodyear dealers, and they've got all kinds of brands as well. Stop by and see Walker vining in his professional staff or check them out online at Turner in Osburne.com. That's Turner and Osburne.com. Minutes matter when you call 911 for a heart attack and Murray Regional Health is ready to care for you. Utilizing the state of the art cardiac cath lab at Murray Regional Medical Center, our team of expert cardiologists and experienced clinical professionals are equipped to investigate heart conditions quickly and perform life-saving interventional procedures. Go to Murrayregional.com/heart to learn more. And remember, always dial 911 when you or someone near you is experiencing heart attack symptoms. Murray Regional Health, where clinical excellence meets compassionate 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 now our final story. Enjoy a day of fun and food at the John Mayer Builders whole hog festival while supporting the community partner, the Well Outreach. It'll take place on October 5th at Oakland Mansion in Spring Hill, admission is $5 per person, kids five and under are free. Enjoy a fun-filled day with live music from seven bands, pork-themed food from over 20 food trucks, hog calling and bacon eating contests, kids' own including a petting zoo, circus acts and crafts fair and an antique tractor show. Best of all, every dollar supports the Well Outreach providing weekend jetpacks of food to local students in need. Help come together to feed the community while having a blast. That's all for this edition of Southern Middle Tennessee today on Kennedy Broadcasting WKOMWKRM Radio. If you ever miss a part or all of this broadcast, you can listen to it anytime or read the transcript online by visiting frontportradiotm.com. 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)