Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 3-05-24
[music] Hello and welcome to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM and WKR and radio. This is your hometown news broadcasting from the Debbie Matthews Nashville Realty Newsroom in Columbia, Tennessee. I'm your host, Tom Price. Today is Tuesday, March 5th, and we start with local news. Election Day for the 2024 Presidential Preference Primary and County Primary Election is upon us, with voters having one last chance today, super Tuesday, to cast their ballots. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at each district's representative polling, I'm sorry, respective polling station. Anyone unsure of where to vote can simply look at the address printed on their voter registration card or by contacting the Moray County Election Commission at www.maraycounty-tn.gov or by calling 931-375-6001. The Election Commission will not have voting available at its main facility on Tuesday. Voters will be given the option of casting their votes via a paper ballot, which was approved by the Moray County Election Commission in 2022. Voters can fill out a ballot before entering it into a tabulator machine where it will be counted and processed. The process is not much different from a typical voting machine just filled out on paper and fed through a separate county device. This year's primary includes elections for a United States president, as well as various seats on the Moray County School Board and Circuit Court Judge for District 22. School Board District 2 and 10, as well as property assessor, did not have Republican or Democratic candidates, but will have independent candidates on the ballot in August during the general election. Voters also are encouraged to download the Tennessee Secretary of State's Go Vote TN app for their smartphones, which lists polling locations and information. Please see GoVote TN.com for details. Visit the Moray County Election website for more information, again at www.meraycounty-tn.gov/227/election-commission. The Agatha's Classical School in Columbia, their mock trial program made history again on February 24th by sending its two teams to face each other in the District 11 championship. Following their program's tradition of naming their teams after characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy, Agatha's team's Frodo and Samwise bested 10 other trial teams from Brentwood, Columbia Academy, Franklin, Ravenwood, Spring Hill and Webb High Schools to win a bid to the annual state tournament. Ultimately, Agatha's team Frodo won its final trial against classmates on team Samwise. This was the second time since the creation of the current districting that two teams from the same school have been forced to face off in a championship round, with the other time being in 2022 when two teams again from Agatha's did the same. But this is not the first time Agatha's mock trial program has made history. In 2019, after only four years in existence, Agatha's team Gondor won both the state and national championships, defeating the champion from Nebraska to best an estimated 30,000 students who competed across the United States and the Pacific. The program achieved much publicity from the achievement, including being featured on ABC's Good Morning America. In its relatively short existence, the small school's trial program has regularly proven itself to be one of the strongest in the nation. Student Rebecca Gokey, a junior at Agatha said, "This team has taught me that there is so much more underneath the smooth sheen of refinement and strength that mock trial requires. Sure, the polish of preparation is what catches the eye of the scorer and the hours we have put into the study of this case have paid off and due proportion, but to me, there is something even more profound that this sport accounts for. I'm talking about the trust and respect we've cultivated for one another. "No single activity has caused my heart to render so much love for my friends. It's all within a split second of eye contact, a nod of confidence, or the slightest change in tone that one might see the greatness of this bond that lay deep within the inner workings of a trial in real time," she said. Coach Jason Watley, a Columbia attorney, is full of confidence at this point. These kids have proven they know how to try a case as well as many experienced attorneys. We're very hopeful that we can take another state championship next month and make a run for a second national title, Watley said. Corey Ritchie, the other attorney, coached for the program, agrees. These kids, many of whom are third-year veterans, are beginning to teach us stuff at this point. "The sky is the limit for them," Ritchie said. According to Ted Trainer, the school's headmaster since 2014, the impact of the program goes beyond learning how to present and argue in court. "I am grateful for the efforts of all teachers, coaches, students, and parents in supporting this program, and I'm humbled by the achievement of these talented, hard-working, and committed teams," Trainer said. "God is honored throughout this program from start to finish, and we all rejoice in that ethos most," he said. The state tournament is slated to begin in Nashville at the historic Davidson County Courthouse on March 22, when at least one Agatha's team will face off against other teams from around the state for a chance at the national championship. Car enthusiasts, start your engines. The highly anticipated Main Street Car Show is set from Mount Pleasant, Tennessee on March 16, showcasing a dazzling array of classic, vintage, and exotic automobiles. This family-friendly event promises an afternoon filled with automotive marvels, entertainment, a kid's zone, and community spirit. The date is March 16 from 2 to 5 p.m. on Main Street in Mount Pleasant. Car shows in Mount Pleasant have been a beloved tradition in the community, bringing together car aficionados, families, and friends for an afternoon. Attendees can expect to feast their eyes on various vehicles, from meticulously restored classics to sleek, modern cars. Whether you're looking for an afternoon outing with your family or just love the beauty of well-maintained automobiles, there will be something for everyone at this year's show. In addition to the impressive lineup of cars, the event will feature live entertainment, food vendors, and activities for children, making it a perfect outing for the entire family. Local businesses will also participate, offering special promotions and discounts during the event. "We're thrilled to host Cruise in on the Square with Kitrell Cars in Mount Pleasant," said Haverly Pennington, the Main Street Director. "It's a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate our shared love for cars, and enjoy a day filled with family fun," she said. Car enthusiasts interested in showcasing their vehicles at the Main Street Car Show can start lining up at 2 p.m. Early registration is encouraged. Don't miss out on the Main Street Car Show. Mark your calendars for March 16 and join us for an unforgettable afternoon of automotive bliss. The organizers of Columbia's annual Mule Day celebration are marking the 50th anniversary of their involvement by creating a scholarship program that honors the blue-collar nature of Murray County's biggest event. The Murray County Bridal and Saddle Club has dedicated $7,500 in funding for scholarships for 2024, which will be awarded to students planning to pursue career and technical education or vocational training. The theme this year is "Fifty Years of Long Years." This is the 50th Mule Day since it was brought back in the early 70s, said Brady Carr, Chairman of the Murray County Bridal and Saddle Club. Mule Day is a blue-collar event and we're pairing homage to the unique contributions of the Mule. They're known for hard work, strength, and intelligence. Students can receive a maximum of $2,500 in scholarships, but awards will be based on need in an effort to make that $7,500 go as far as possible, Carr said. With a lot of the CTE programs, they may not need that whole amount because Tennessee Promise oftentimes pays the entire tuition. The issue is students sometimes may not have the money for the tools and supplies that go along with this type of educational program, Carr said, "We may end up impacting half a dozen or three. It just depends on the applicants and the amount of need," he said. Students will be able to use Mule Day scholarships to purchase books, tools, and other equipment that would not be covered by Tennessee Promise. Those interested in applying must be a Murray County resident or an active member of the Murray County Bridal and Saddle Club and must exhibit financial need. Carr said those with less than perfect academic records are particularly encouraged to apply. Students who graduated within the last two years can also apply in the first year of the program, Carr noted, "Maybe they got a GED or weren't top in their class. They can still qualify," he said. The Mule Day scholarships are only available for CTE or vocational training, not for post-secondary education. For 50 years, Mule Day has supported a number of charities ranging from construction and site improvement at the Murray County Park to local schools and civic organizations. Carr said the Mule Day organizers see the scholarship program as an extension of their mission. Mule Day is a 501(c)(3), and we donate money back into the community. Carr said, "This is a whole new direction for us." The scholarships are funded by local sponsors from Mule Day and businesses and individuals interested in sponsoring are encouraged to reach out to the Mule Day office. "We have scholarships from $500 and up, so we have spots for anyone who want to get involved," Carr said. "We want people to join us in this effort and make Murray County a better place." Applications are due by March 11th and awards will be announced by April 1st. All awards will be paid directly to the institution of enrollment by the Murray County Bridal and Saddle Club. For more information on applying for the scholarship or to become a sponsor, contact Carr at MuleDayWorks@gmail.com or by calling 931-224-1930. Information is also available at www.muleday.com/works. Hosted by the Murray Regional Health Care Foundation and presented by First Farmers and Merchants Bank, the annual Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot will take place on Saturday, April 6th at Riverwalk Park in Columbia. Proceeds from the 2024 Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot provide funding for Murray Regional Health's Mobile Medical Unit, which delivers health care services to at-risk and underserved individuals throughout Southern Middle Tennessee by providing basic health screenings, education, and resources. A portion of the proceeds from the Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot will also support the Foundation's Wellness and Aquatic Center Healthy Living Endowment and the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department. In addition, the Murray County School, with the most participation in the event, will receive a donation to their physical education program from the Foundation. The Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot is a great tradition for both Murray County and the Murray Regional Health Care Foundation that helps support our mission of providing important health care services for individuals who may not otherwise be able to obtain care. Foundation Executive Director Joe Kilgore said, "We are excited to host the Mule Kick 5K and look forward to an exciting race," he said. On Saturday, April 6th, the race will begin at Riverwalk Park in Columbia, with an 8 a.m. start time for the 5K and a 915 a.m. start time for the One Mile Trot. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to participate. Participants may register for the race online at www.runsignup.com/mulekick5K. First farmers is pleased to continue our ongoing partnership with the Murray Regional Health Care Foundation for this year's Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot. "We are proud to support the vital work of the Foundation, which testifies to our dedication to fostering well-being in our region," said Brian K. Williams, Chairman and CEO of First Farmers. In addition to presenting sponsor, First Farmers and Merchants Bank, sponsorships ranging from $350 to $2,500 are still available for those who are interested in marketing exposure at the event. For additional information, contact the Murray Regional Health Care Foundation at 931-381-111-Extension-1012. To learn more about the Murray Regional Health Care Foundation, the Mule Kick 5K and One Mile Trot, or to make a direct gift to support the Mobile Medical Unit Fund, visit www.merryregional.com/foundation. The Murray County Historical Society has been granted permission by the Murray County Commission to place a time capsule in the New Murray County Justice Center, currently under construction, a selection committee has been created and is ready to receive items. If you have something small and Murray County related, you would like to donate, contact Commission Chairman Eric Pravitti at 931-626-9878 or email him at ePravitti@icloud.com. Murray County government has been awarded a $5,000 matching grant from the South Central Tennessee Development District. The arts build communities or ABC grant will help the county commemorate the historic Murray County Courthouse as it celebrates 120 years of service to the community in 2024. The grant will fund a community-juried art competition open to Murray County citizens of all ages. According to a press release, the theme will focus on what does the courthouse represent to its citizens. Citizens are invited to use their artistic abilities to design an original piece of art, all genres are welcome, that interprets what the Murray County Courthouse means to them. The Murray County Courthouse is an iconic and historic structure for the state of Tennessee, built by local architect J.E.R. Carpenter before he went on to great fame as one of the leading architects of luxury high-rise living in New York City. This building has been the central focus of Murray County since it was built in 1904. It symbolizes much to our community. This grant is a wonderful opportunity to allow the citizens of the county to interpret and express what the building represents. Murray County citizens will have from now until March 22 to submit their artwork to the Murray County Archives temporary location at 1446 Oak Springs Drive Suite 100. Art will be juried in four age categories, elementary, secondary, high school and adults ages 18 and over. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place for each category and one grand prize winner will be announced during Mule Day on April 6. Rules for artists' submissions include that artwork must be original, all art intended for wall mounting like drawings and paintings in the 18+ category must be submitted in a frame and wired for hanging. All submitted art must be accompanied by a card with the artist's name, contact information, category, title and medium, and all art must be submitted by 3PM on Friday, March 22. Art will be juried by five esteemed artists which include local photographers Sarah Gilliam and Ross James, as well as painters James Spearman and Margaret Warfield and sculpt Jennifer Grisham. The winning submissions will be displayed at the courthouse during the 2024 Mule Day festivities. All submitted artwork will be placed on display at the prior Art Gallery at Columbia State Community College from May 13 through June 14. The exhibit will open with a gallery reception on May 13. For more information about the contest, contact the Murray County Archives at 931-375-1500. And now your hometown memorials sponsored by Ochsynical Sphenelholm. Mrs. Dottie Craig Morrow, 75, resident of Kalioka and a retired bookkeeper for Porter Walker, passed away Sunday, March 3 at her residence. Graveside services for Mrs. Morrow will be conducted on Thursday, March 7 at 11 a.m. at Wilkes Cemetery in Kalioka. Home town memorials is sponsored by Ochsynical Sphenelholm, 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 Ochsynical, 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 Ochsynical's 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. Ochsynical's 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 today with periods of rain, thunderstorms are possible. The high will be 67 degrees with winds out of the southeast at 5 to 10 miles per hour. There's a 90% chance of rain today. Tonight, we can expect more clouds with showers likely. The low will be 53 degrees with light and variable winds. The chance of overnight rain, 50%. 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. 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 the 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, see Shelter Agent Tommy Hyde Jr. at 388-2009. Are you thinking about a new fence? Maybe you need a pole bar. Then you should give Sands Fence Company a call that's 931-309-1644. Will Sands has built his business based on the principles of honesty, quality, and integrity. Sands Fence Company has been in business for over 20 years, providing a community with farm, residential, and commercial fencing, as well as pole barns and buildings. Call today for a free estimate. Sands Fence Company 931-309-1644, 931-309-1644. 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. When you bank local, you get local expertise. Hi, this is Felicia Brown with First Farmers. We've supported families, individuals, and businesses of Middle Tennessee for over a century. You are more than an account number. You are our community, and we're committed to helping you thrive. Switch to First Farmers. Visit MyFirstFarmers.com, or call 1-800-882-8378. Member FTSC. This is Triacock with Dixie Equipment, Sales and Rental. We sell ASV and Wacker Nordstrom equipment. We also rent a wide variety of compact equipment in the Middle Tennessee area. Come see us. We are located in Columbia, Tennessee at 200 East 16th Street. You can call us at 615-969-0118, or visit our website at www.dixiediesel.com. We have been in business for over 42 years, and we would love to help you turn your project into reality. [MUSIC] Deciding what your next home will look like, cost and construction or timing can be intimidating. At the way-reality, our licensed general contractors help take the fear out of home building by walking you through the step-by-step process of estimating the cost and designing the look that you desire. You can even stay in your house until your new house is finished. Do you have a family farm or a piece of land you would like to build on? Our prices start at 195 a square foot and include brick and nice finishes. Come by your office and see what we can do for you. At 800 Hatcher Lane in Columbia, or call us at 931-580-4669. [MUSIC] [MUSIC] Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM 101.7 and WKRM 103.7. This program is sponsored and part by George Virilis and the great team at The Way Realty. I'm Tom Price. And now news from around the state. With Super Tuesday here, Tennessee Secretary of State Trey Hargate and the Division of Elections want to remind all registered voters casting a ballot they have two avenues for reporting voter fraud or other suspicious activity via text or by calling the Department of State's toll-free hotline. Tennessee is ranked number one in the nation for election integrity because of the laws the General Assembly has passed and because of the dedication of election officials in implementing those laws, said Secretary Hargate. All registered voters should know it is easy to cast a ballot in Tennessee but hard to cheat. However, if voters notice anything unusual, we urge them to text or call us and report potential issues, he said. Tennesseeans can text TN to the number 45995 using a cell phone or other texting device. They will receive a secure link where they can submit concerns directly to the Secretary of State's Division of Elections. The Division of Elections reviews reports of possible voter fraud, misinformation, intimidation, or any other election day in propriety. It works with county election commissions, district attorneys, and other parties to take appropriate action. "Other organizations may offer voters ways to report election issues, but they are not affiliated with us," said coordinator of elections Mark Goens. "We created our reporting systems as the industry standards, so Tennesseeans know we are the trusted source for election information. They can be confident that their concerns are getting to the correct place because we work with local county election commissions to help Tennesseeans have a positive voting experience," he said. Voters can also report voting issues or get answers to election day questions by calling the Division of Elections official election day hotline toll-free at 1-877-850-4959. The March 5th presidential preference primary ballot was certified and set on December 13th of 2023. Some candidates for president suspended their campaign after the ballot was set. It was too late for their names to be removed from the ballot. Voters will not only be selecting their preferred presidential candidate, but they will also be selecting candidate delegates and letting their voices be heard in local primary elections. All registered voters can find their polling location and access voter-specific information, including sample ballots and election results through the free Go Vote TN app, or by visiting GoVote TN.gov. The Secretary of State's office is Tennessee's trusted source for election information, and Tennessee is ranked number one in the nation for election integrity by the Heritage Foundation. To learn more, visit sos.tn.gov. Gloomy winter weather is on the way out and March 19th, the first day of spring is quickly approaching. That means longer, sunnier days, it also means crowds of adventurers descending on top tourism destinations, and Tennesseans are eager to travel in 2024. According to a new AAA travel survey, 85% of state residents will venture out of the state this year, and 45% of Tennesseans are likely to travel more than last year. Nearly one in every three Tennesseans has vacation plans over spring break, the survey found. The busiest travel period in 2024, March through July. For the Tennesseans planning a spring break trip, the top trips planned are to beaches, major cities, theme parks, and national state parks, said AAA spokesperson Megan Cooper. Florida is always a popular trip for Tennesseans, and it checks a lot of boxes for those looking for the beach, Disney World, or those that are planning on departing on a cruise from one of the Florida ports, she said. 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 Macaula 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 and Osborne.com. That's Turner and Osborne.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. Have you ever wondered if your insurance needs can be personalized? This is Hunter Carey. Our team specializes in planning your insurance needs to get you the best possible solution. State Farm is the largest home and auto insurer in the country. I love bringing that to my hometown. Born and raised in Columbia, I'm grateful for our close community ties. We offer help with home, auto, and life insurance for everyone in our community. Our office is located at 909 South Garden Tree across from the fire station. We're also in line at HunterCarry.com. That's HunterC-A-R-Y.com. Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today, and now our final story. Tedeski Trucks Band announced their North American Duces Wild Tour this fall. The tour will stop in Nashville at Ascendantheater on September 21. Special guests will be Margot Price, Joe Purdy, and Green Sky Bluegrass. The Tedeski Trucks Band is a Grammy award-winning American 11-piece blues rock powerhouse formed in 2010. Led by the dynamic duo of husband and wife musician Susan Tedeski and Derek Trucks, the band is renowned for its electrifying live performances, seamlessly blending elements of blues, soul, rock, and Americana. General OnSail is available now. Visit www.tadeskitrucksband.com/tour for tickets and more information. That's all for this edition of Southern Middle Tennessee today. I'm 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. ♪♪♪