Front Porch Radio - Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price
Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-8-24
(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 Tuesday, October 8th, and we start with local news. When all modern conveniences are washed away, the reliable mule remains steadfast. Last week, Hurricane Helene unleashed its fury upon the Southern Appalachians after making landfall as a category four storm and Florida's Big Bend, the most powerful storm on record for the region. With at least 222 confirmed deaths, it now ranks as the fourth deadliest hurricane in US history. North Carolina bore the brunt of the storm's impact where catastrophic flooding, described by some as a biblical disaster, triggered massive landslides, bearing roads and submerging entire mountain towns. Once familiar trails have transformed into treacherous landscapes, buried under a chaotic jumble of fallen trees, thick brush and jagged debris. Where vehicles can't go, mules navigate narrow paths. They're hooves steady as they maneuver through the storm-ravaged terrain to deliver essential supplies to remote areas. They've had many roles in their careers from hauling camping gear and fresh hunt, pulling wagons and farm equipment, to serving and training the best of the very best of our military special forces, carrying weapons, medical supplies and even wounded soldiers. Mountain Mule Packers Ranch posted on social media. As Appalachian communities confront devastation, the mule stands out as an unsung hero. With each determined step, these resilient animals symbolize hope as they navigate through rubble to assist those in need. Since the historic storm swept through the Southeastern United States, a train of mules and their riders has trekked through the chaos from dawn to dusk, delivering essential supplies to people and hard to reach areas. As power and cellular outages persist, these riders risk their own safety, skillfully maneuvering their mules along treacherous trails. A video posted by Mountain Mule Packers Ranch captures the devastating scene in Swannanoa, where the landscape lies and ruins, rendering it impassable for vehicles. Heavy equipment will definitely get this cleared, but in the meantime, mules can carry gear through here quickly, the organization noted. From cleaning supplies and canned foods to hygiene products, blankets, clothing and even a teddy bear with a note of support from a young donor, the mules have tirelessly carried load after load, shouldering the burdens of the people of Appalachia that the people of Appalachia can no longer bear. We were not out of the trucks for two minutes before we had people coming up to us that needed dog food, the organization shared online on Wednesday. Earlier this week, they shared a video of their work with Cajun Navy 2016, highlighting their mission to deliver ice to an elderly man at the top of Appalachian Way for his insulin. As the man in need walked down the steps of his home toward the mules, he smiled and a woman exclaimed, "Look at that." As the video continues, the man commends their efforts, noting that they are providing assistance in the rain. While one of the riders grins, nods and repeats in the rain. You know what though, another rider behind the camera said, "We got that ice for you," he said. "How many days do we take for granted the simple things "the organization reflected? "In times like these, we recognize how much we are blessed with. "We are so grateful the mules have helped "deliver essential items to those in need." And that's a story that Murray County students should be particularly proud of. Kids helping kids at children's ministry at First United Methodist Church in Columbia recently donated $500 to the Murray County Students in Transition Organization. The mission of Murray County Students in Transition is to provide short-term emergency assistance to transitional and needy students registered in Murray County Public Schools. Students in transition are defined as those in households that are usually one missed payment away from being without utilities or in danger of being homeless because of lack of funds to pay rent. Murray County Students in Transition works closely with the school system in identifying families who have become homeless. Once identified, the organization is able to provide a motel placement for a few nights, giving the families some time to secure other resources. Assistance is provided during the school year. Since August of this year, Murray County Students in Transition has assisted 29 families with 66 school-aged children with utilities, rent, and emergency motel placement. Bake sales are held at the church twice a year to raise money for the children to donate to disadvantaged kids. South Central Tennessee Tourism Association made up of 13 counties, including Murray, generated more than $517 million in direct visitor spending and saw 3.6 million visitors to the region in 2023. The 2023 Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee report was released by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Tourism in South Central Tennessee is on a remarkable upward trajectory, fueling both economic growth and community development. South Central Tennessee Tourism Association Executive Director Ryan French said, "This progress is a testament to the strong partnerships "we've cultivated across the region "and the invaluable role these relationships play "in enhancing local resources and strategies," he said. Specific to Murray County, the same report reveals $136.85 million in domestic visitor spending to the county and 8% increase from 2022. Tennessee Department of Tourist Development released the new data just ahead of the industry's annual governor's conference in Chattanooga. Statewide, Tennessee Tourism generated $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending and saw 144 million visitors to the state in 2023. Tax dollars generated by tourism support and important public services, like education, health, and safety. This record growth is a testament to the strength, resilience, determination, and efforts of our hardworking industry and bringing visitors to enjoy why Tennessee sounds perfect. Mark Yzel, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development said, "Murry County ranked 20th among the 95 counties in Tennessee "while visitor spending in Murray County "generated $13.9 million in state and local tax revenue." South Central Tennessee Tourism Association estimates that if it were not for sale, state and local taxes generated by tourism, each Murray County household would pay $352 more in state and local taxes. Visitor spending also generated $34.2 million in payroll for Murray County. French added, "We're at an exciting juncture, "witnessing unprecedented growth "and widespread community support for our shared mission. "As we prepare to launch our new tourism-ready strategy, "we're focused on expanding resources for small businesses, "lodging partners and attractions, "further solidifying our region as a premier destination "for visitors." (mouse clicking) Murray Regional Medical Center will host a free Your Medicare in 2025 seminar on Friday, October 25th from 2 to 3 p.m., featuring an explanation on Medicare plan changes for the coming year. The event will be held in the Murray Regional Annex at 1223 Trotwood Avenue in Columbia. To register, you can visit the classes and events page at www.muryregional.com or call 931-381-1111, extension 7-0-1-1. Sherry Craig with the State Health Insurance Assistance Program will provide information on what changes could be made in the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit and Medicare Advantage supplemental plans in 2025. The seminar will also address the importance of performing an annual plan comparison and changes in Medicare costs. The Medicare Open Enrollment Period is October 15th through December 7th. Medicare beneficiaries are encouraged to review your current coverage, ensure that your preferred providers are still in network and determine what part D plan will best cover your prescription medications. Plan changes go into effect on January 1st of 2025. The Medicare and U book that beneficiaries will receive by mail contains information about Medicare coverage and plans available in our area. For more information, visit www.muryregional.com/medicare. Ship volunteers are trained to offer assistance in Medicare recipients who would like their Medicare Part D options reviewed. To make an individual appointment, visit muryregional.com/medicare to obtain a form and return it to the Senior Center in Columbia located at 1020 Murray County Park Drive. Once the form is returned, individuals will be contacted to schedule an appointment for a one-on-one review. Murray Regional Health has also, I'm sorry, has enrolled counselors available to answer questions. Schedule a meeting by calling 931-381-111 extension 7262. Appointments are available, including by phone or teleconference during regular business hours. Columbia State Community College is excited to announce the 22nd season of its popular performance series sponsored by First Farmers and 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. The 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 Moten, 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 at the prior art gallery prior to 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 Lisker Hill Credit Union is excited to announce the launch of the Think Shop Explore Local Passport campaign and 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 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 and 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 Public 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, Tohy Club and Birdsong Social, brunch collective and many others. Once you have 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-hours submissions ensuring that everyone has a chance to 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 website or contact the Spring Hill Chamber Welcome Center at 931-486-0625. The second annual Fall Fest will take place on October 12th 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 tenant 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 that downtown Columbia has to offer," said Johnson. "We are privileged to partner with so many local businesses and organizations that work hard to produce amazing products, excellent food and great customer experiences that help transform events like this that create memorable moments for those in attendance. We hope that you enjoy the craft vendors, food trucks, the bands and all the activities for every age," she said. For more information about the second annual Fall Fest, including how to participate or volunteer, please visit www.columbiamainstreet.com or follow Columbia Main Street on social media. And now your hometown memorials sponsored by Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Bertha Scroggins Clark, 90, a longtime resident of Carter's Creek Pike died Friday, October 4th at her residence. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, October 9th at 1 p.m. at Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. Beria will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends on Tuesday, October 8th from 4 to 8 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 12 until the time of the service at Oakson Nichols Funeral Home. hometown 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 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 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 Matt and Susie Sowo believe the way to honor tradition is with a specially personal service. We believe your traditions, your customs, your rights and passage are very important, but we also believe in taking care of your personal wishes as well. At Oakson 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 plentiful sunshine today and a high of 76 degrees. Winds will be out of the North-North-East at five to 10 miles per hour. Tonight, we can expect clear skies in a low of 46. 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. Debbie Matthews grew up and lives in beautiful Coolumbia, Tennessee. As 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. 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 Parralis, Manager of Murray County Equipment. We help you with all your agricultural and construction equipment needs. We carry a full line of new hauling tractors from compacts to high horsepower. We have a full line of gravely mowing equipment. We also have new hauling construction equipment, attachments and accessories for your tractors and a complete parts department. We are locally owned and operated. Come see us at 1075, North James Campbell Boulevard or learn about us on Facebook. Or contact us at 931-490-8183. - People often ask about the initials after mine in Monty's names. Those initials are CFP, Certified Financial Planner. As a CFP, we will do our best to help you in the attainment of your financial goals while protecting those assets with proper insurance coverage. We encourage the team approach of holistic financial planning by working alongside your CPA and attorney. This is Gay Pike with 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. - This is Bob Kessel with Pat Ryan. It's a beautiful day for digging. The vacuole 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 log. 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. (loud whooshing) (upbeat music) - Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee today on WKOM 101.7 and WKRM 103.7, your hometown source for news and information. I'm Tom Price, and I'm news from around the state. (upbeat music) Looking to buy that perfect statement piece for your home office? Vanderbilt football fans can own a tangible piece of Nashville sports history after the team secured an unexpected win against number one Alabama Saturday night. Specifically, an eight-inch banana yellow metal bar that until Saturday night was part of the Vanderbilt Commodores football field for $4,035. As of Monday afternoon, all the available pieces of the goal posts were sold out, but other items were still being auctioned. Price has shot up for the in-demand mementos throughout the day on Monday. Personalized football helmets jumped from $7,090 in the morning to $31,090 by 4 p.m. Goal line pylon started at $800 and grew to $1,300 or more. Game balls were selling for $6,885 each. Vanderbilt fans stormed the first bank stadium field after the historic home win. They wrenched the south and zoned goal post out of the ground and carried it onto the streets of Nashville. Southeastern Conference officials have ordered Vanderbilt Athletics to pay Alabama $100,000 for storming the field and SEC violations since 2023. A representative of Vanderbilt University said the proceeds from the auction will not be used to pay the SEC fine. The online auction can be accessed in the Live Source app or online at desktop.livesourceapp.com. The auction will last until 5 p.m. on October 10th. After the game, the Nashville Fire Department recovered the goal post from the Cumberland River. The Victoria students had marched almost three miles down Broadway to ceremoniously toss it in. Video clips and pictures published online show fans celebrating the moment. It took at least an hour to get the goal post from the stadium to Riverfront Park in downtown Nashville. Travelers eager for a direct gateway to Ireland can mark their calendars starting April 12th. Erlingus will launch a new nonstop service from Nashville to Dublin. Fairs start at just $499, including taxes and fees. The state-of-the-art Airbus A321 XLR will operate four times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, offering an eight and a half hour journey to the heart of Ireland. This nonstop flight will offer travelers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the best of both worlds from exploring Ireland's stunning landscapes and ancient ruins to immersing themselves in Nashville's vibrant Broadway experience. Doug Cruell and president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority emphasize the significance of this connection. It's the perfect combination for those seeking adventure, culture, and a truly unforgettable journey, he said. Dublin offers an abundance of experiences for visitors to enjoy with its rich history and culture, charming streets, historic landmarks, and lively pubs. Guests can explore historic sites like Dublin Castle and St. Patrick's Cathedral, or enjoy a pint at the Guinness Storehouse. Beyond the city, the stunning Wild Atlantic Way awaits, featuring dramatic coastal drives and breathtaking views from the cliffs of Moore to Sleeve League. This new route not only opens up direct access to Dublin, but also connects travelers to major European cities like London, Edinburgh, Rome, Amsterdam, Paris, Manchester, and Berlin. 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 Osborn 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 check them out online at Turner and Osborn.com. That's Turner and Osborn.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. The Grand Ole Opry has announced its fourth annual Opry Next Stage Live presented by Techavos, which will take place on Monday, December 9th at the Grand Ole Opry House. The Opry style show will showcase country music's top rising artists who are part of the Opry Next Stage program. Raining ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year 2021 Opry Next Stage alum and the newest member of the Opry, Laney Wilson, will host and perform. Additional artists featured in the lineup include every member of the next stage class of 2024, 49 Winchester and Wilson, Charles Wesley Godwin, Chase Matthew, Ella Langley, Flatland Cavalry, Josh Ross, Madeline, Edwards and Wyatt Flores. Tickets are on sale now. You can get them by visiting www.operry.com. That's all for this edition of Southern Middle Tennessee today on Kennedy Broadcasting, WKOMWKRM Radio. I'll be back tomorrow to update you with the latest news. I'm Tom Price. Thanks for listening. Be safe and have a great day. (upbeat music) (upbeat music) (upbeat music) (upbeat music)