Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-4-24
(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 Friday, October 4th, and we start as always 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 a basement 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, who spearheaded the project when he served on the commission, said he remembers talking 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 of 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 past and present, 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 for 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." Break out the flags and patriotic garb and pick out your spot along the road for the 16th annual Wounded Warriors Soldier Ride this Friday and Saturday. The Wounded Warriors Soldier Ride is a multi-day event designed to help warriors build confidence and strength by incorporating skill building practices that accommodate all ability levels. Their ride actually begins months earlier when they begin to work on getting in shape for the ride. During that time, they're not only getting in shape for the ride, they're beginning another stage of healing from their wounds by connecting with other Wounded Warriors. They find increased motivation, confidence, self-esteem, solace, and new doors begin to open for them. As they learn to handle and care for the equipment, all provided free, the Warriors also find comfort working again with other veterans who are all at different skill and fitness levels. On Friday, October 4th, the 2024 Soldier Ride will begin at 9 a.m. leaving from Grace Chapel on Southall Road. The route goes through the countryside to Southwest Williamson County ending at the Water Valley Community Center, located at 4849 Leapers Creek Road in Williamsport, where they will be served a hearty lunch. Each year, Saturday's Ride is made in memory of US Army Master Sergeant James Trey Ponder, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2005. It begins at his alma mater Battleground Academy, where he graduated in 1987. The Soldiers will enjoy breakfast, provided by the BGA baseball team before a brief program and the 8.30 a.m. start of the ride. From BGA, they'll ride through Franklin neighborhoods, heading to Berry's Chapel Church of Christ for a brief water and snack break in music, provided by the Mount Juliet Christian Academy marching band. When the Soldiers leave the Church, they head through the neighborhoods that take them to Westhaven for another water and snack stop, and celebration by Westhaven residents. From Westhaven, the Soldiers, somewhere in prosthetics and many riding bicycles adapted to their injuries, head to downtown Franklin, returning to BGA for lunch. Each year, hundreds of residents line the streets in roads, waving their flags, shouting thanks, and encouraging the wounded warriors to keep on keeping on. Each year, the veteran soldiers participating in the ride comment on how pleasantly surprised they are at the warm welcome they received from the residents of Williamson and Murray counties. Get out early and give them another warm welcome. [ Silence ] On Monday, September 23rd, the City of Columbia held an opening ceremony for a new electric card charging bank located in the county parking lot at the corner of Woodland and East Seventh Streets. The city collaborated with Columbia Power and Water Systems, accepting a $300,000 grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation to install the fast charging stations for electric vehicles. The 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 trips, making electric vehicle travel more convenient than ever. Columbia is one of 12 cities chosen as part of a statewide project to receive a share of the $5.2 million set aside by TVA and TDEC to develop Tennessee's direct current fast charging infrastructure. This project is part of a broader initiative to create a multi-state electric vehicle fast charging network along major highways and interstates. These charging stations represent a crucial step in Columbia's efforts 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. Jonathan Harden, president and CEO of CPWS, thanked the county and city governments for facilitating this accomplishment for electric vehicle infrastructure. 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, Harden said. CPWS staff was entirely responsible for building this charging station and we are excited that EV drivers will have their charging needs officially met in Murray County. Once here, we are excited they get to experience the gem that is our beloved town of Columbia, he said. Chris Templeton, customer service manager for TVA, emphasized the importance of TVA's growing fast charge network, which is in the process of building 32 charging stations at 13 sites, including Columbia. The TVA's final plan for the fast charge network is to build fast charging stations every 50 miles along major highways and interstates over its seven state service area by 2026. Congratulations to Columbia on becoming the 39th installation site, he said. We look forward to the positive impact this will bring to the community. Chuck Yost, Deputy Director of TDEC's Office of Energy Programs added. We at TDEC 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. Columbia State Community College is excited to announce the 22nd season of its popular performance series, sponsored by first farmers in Merchants Bank, showcasing a dynamic lineup of talented artists at the 500 seat cherry theater on the Columbia campus. Audiences can look forward to memorable performances with the added perks of free parking and a complimentary art exhibit at the prior art gallery before each show. This season of the performance series at Columbia State is a true celebration of musical artistry, showcasing exceptional talent that transcends genres and generations, said Tammy Rossin, Director of Events and Alumni Relations at Columbia State. Each performance offers something truly special, whether it's the soulful harmonies of Rockland Road, the powerful vocals of Wendy Moughton, the fresh take on traditional country from the Mall Pass brothers, the nostalgic yet modern sound of Admiral Radio, the dynamic piano mastery of Ryan and Ryan, or the timeless swing of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. We're excited to welcome our community to the Cherry Theater for what promises to be an unforgettable season of entertainment, she said. Tickets are $35, which includes all fees. Free and convenient parking is available along with a free art exhibition in the prior art gallery before each performance. Learn more and purchase tickets by visiting www.columbiastate.edu/performanceseries or call the box office at 931-540-2879. 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 and 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 haul 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 shops 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 Meets, TriStar ER Spring Hill, Williamson Health, Bone and Joyd 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 haul 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 Birdsong Social, brunch collective and many others. Once you've collected at least 15 stickers, return your passport to the Spring Hill Chamber Welcome Center located at 5326 Main Street Sweet G by October 31st. A drop box is available for after hour submissions ensuring that everyone has a chance to win and participate. The Think Shop Explorer Local Passport Campaign is an excellent way to discover new businesses, support the 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. Columbia Main Street announced that due to the inclement weather that moved through Middle Tennessee this past weekend, the second annual Fall Fest has been postponed until October 12th. The event will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. in downtown Columbia. This event, presented in partnership with Kiwanis of Columbia, promises 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 Tri Green's 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 Kids Zone at Fall Fest for face painting, complimentary snow cones, inflatables, and more. Additionally, attendees can support local businesses by shopping with artists and 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, Said 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 the downtown Columbia has to offer," Said Johnson. "We're 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. 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 PM. 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. And now your hometown memorials sponsored by Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Patricia Joan Llewellyn Owens, 90, a resident of Columbia died Monday, September 30th at NHC Marie Regional Transitional Care. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be extended at www.oaksandnichols.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 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 Matt and Susie Sowell believe the way to honor tradition is with a specially 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 and 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 and 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 a mix of sun and clouds today with a high near 85 degrees. Winds will be light and variable. Tonight, we can expect partly cloudy skies with areas of patchy fog developing. The low will be 61. For your weekend forecast, we will see partly cloudy skies on Saturday and mainly sunny skies on Sunday. The daytime highs will be around 87 degrees. Overnight temps will be around 60. Let's take a break. When we come back, we'll cover state and national news that affect you. You are listening to Southern Middle Tennessee today. (buzzer beeps) - Three, two, one. (upbeat music) - This is Debbie Matthews with the National Realty 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 Realty Group, 615-476-3224. (upbeat music) - 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. - 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 Holland tractors from compacts to high horsepower. We have a full line of gravely mowing equipment. We also have New Holland 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 Nied 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 back goal 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) - 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. President Joe Biden announced October 2nd a major disaster declaration for Tennessee. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide federal disaster assistance for Hurricane Holine Relief. Biden previously recognized the emergency and approved federal funding for those hurt by the storm. This elevated declaration provides a wide range of federal assistance programs for individuals and public infrastructure, including funds for both emergency and permanent work, according to FEMA. Federal funding will be available for those in the hardest hit counties, including Carter, Koch, Green, Hamlin, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicorn and Washington. Grants can be used for housing and repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee declared a state emergency in Tennessee on September 27th and requested money and assistance from FEMA, which the agency approved a day later. The first round of federal assistance includes a 75% reimbursement for restoration work in Carter, Koch, Green, Hamlin, Johnson and Unicorn counties, and a 75% reimbursement for evacuation and shelter support in Hawkins and Washington counties. The remaining 25% will be a combination of local and state funds. On September 30th, Lee wrote to the Biden administration again to request an expedited major disaster declaration, which was approved in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina after their requests that preceded Lee's asked that was approved October 2nd. Earth is set to have a visitor in its orbit in the form of a mini-moon, also known as Asteroid 2024 PT5 over the next couple of months. The asteroid is set to take a similar orbital path that a moon does around a planet and will remain in Earth's celestial atmosphere until November. And while it may be a mini-moon, it won't be visible to the naked eye as our lunar compatriot is. Mini-moon's aren't uncommon events. It happens when a small body, like an asteroid, acquires negative geocentric energy for weeks or a few months, according to space.com. These events happen two different ways the website wrote. First are long episodes when the object completes one or more revolutions about our planet with these gravitational engagements lasting one or more years. The second type are short episodes where it does not complete a full revolution. These temporary captures can last days, weeks, or even a few months. These events do happen fairly frequently with several events happening per decade. The small asteroid was discovered on August 7th by the Asteroid Terrestrial Impact Last Alert System or Atlas, a NASA-funded program. Asteroid 2024 PT5 is expected to enter Earth's gravitational pull on Sunday, September 29th and stay with us until Monday, November 25th, after it will escape Earth's orbit and be pulled toward the sun before continuing its travels around our solar system. The mini-moon is about the size of a bus, actually. Asteroid 2024 PT5 measures in at about 33 feet in diameter. 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 Osburn 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 andosburn.com/turnerandosburn.com Don't let pain keep you out of the game. Murray Regional Physical Therapies experienced team of therapists can help you recover from surgery, injury or illness by designing a plan that meets your unique needs. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and proven techniques to help you get back to doing the things you love. Schedule a consultation at any of our convenient Southern Middle Tennessee locations by calling 931-380-4014. 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 our final story. While Oktoberfest is going on in Riverwalk Park, downtown Columbia will be as lively as ever as citizens gather for another festive first Fridays on the square. As always, first Friday's main events will run from 5 to 8 p.m. This includes an assortment of craft vendors set up along West 7th Street, buskers performing music on street corners and a whole lot more. Baxter's Mercantile at 808 South Garden Street will host its annual Witches Night Out, featuring food samples from Italy, as well as mulled cider drinks. Come dressed in your best wizard reward robe and get your picture taken with characters from the Harry Potter series. Gallery 48 at 107 West 7th Street will host an art show featuring the works of local 3D artist Nicholas Stadler from 5 to 8 p.m., which will include live demonstrations on how she creates her art. 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 at frontportradiotn.com. I'll be back on Monday to update you with the latest news.