Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-26-24

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Daily News from MuleTown to Music City and beyond. Listen to Tom Price read the news of the day from Kennedy Broadcasting, WKOM & WKRM Radio.

WKOM/WKRM Radio
Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for November 26, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
June Lake Construction Underway (MauryCountySource)
Crews have begun paving the intersection of Buckner Lane and June Lake Boulevard, with work scheduled to take place now through Wednesday, November 27 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day.
Flaggers will be stationed at the site to manage traffic, and drivers are advised to anticipate minor delays during these hours. Motorists are encouraged to plan accordingly or use alternate routes to avoid disruptions.
The project is part of ongoing improvements in the area, and crews aim to minimize inconvenience while completing the work efficiently.

Clinical Social Worker Joins MRH (Press Release)
Margaret Rivers, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker, has joined Maury Regional Medical Group (MRMG) and will provide behavioral health services at the PrimeCare Clinic in Columbia.
 She obtained her master’s degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. Rivers has more than ten years of behavioral health experience and comes to MRMG from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.  She has extensive experience working with patients with co-occurring disorders providing both individual and group care.
 Rivers will see patients ages 15 and older with a physician referral. PrimeCare Clinic offers primary care and behavioral health services and is located at 854 West James Campbell Boulevard, Suite 301, in Columbia. The practice hours are Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Additional PrimeCare providers include Family Nurse Practitioner Loretta Davidson, FNP-BC; Licensed Clinical Social Worker Amanda Ferrara, LCSW; Physician’s Assistants Josefine Luna, PA-C and Miranda Wood, PA-C: and Psychiatric Health Nurse Pratitioners Schelby Blair and Theresa Norris.
 For more information, call 931.540.4140 or visit MauryRegional.com/PrimeCare.

Local Farmers Help Farmers in East TN (CDH)
The devastation by Hurricane Helene is still being felt along the Southeast, and while many were left without homes, others in the farming community had additional losses — including fencing, cattle and precious land.
As a historically thriving agricultural region, many farmers in East Tennessee and the Carolinas are left with barns demolished and washed away, fencing ripped out of the ground and, in many cases, massive losses of livestock.
In the ensuing weeks following the hurricane, many communities, nonprofits and organizations have donated money, water, food and time to the relief efforts. In Maury County, farmers and those in the ag industry have gotten together to help in their own way by organizing a hay drive to assist East Tennessee farmers in need.
Farmers in Maury County rallied to collect hundreds of donations of hay bales to deliver to East Tennessee. Maury County United Farm & Home Co-op is donating a semi-truck and driver to transport it, and Tennessee Farm Bureau is also assisting.
South Gate Church of Christ donated $4,000 to cover fuel costs, while the Lower Middle Tennessee Cattlemen's Association donated an additional $3,000.
"A lot of us have been focusing on feeding people and helping them get back on their feet, but there are farmers who have lost miles of fences, half of their cattle and hay crops are gone, and their pastures are all under mud," generational farmer Randy Jones of South Gate said.
Jones co-owns Greasy Branch cattle farm, a century farm in Maury County.
"They're going to be out of business if they don't get some help. If we can throw some hay up there, help get them over the hump then, maybe, they can see their way through this," Jones said.
Farmers will use the hay to feed livestock and cover areas of land affected by massive flooding as well as stockpile for winter months when freezing temperatures come.
Though a total amount of hay bales hasn't been counted, James estimates "more than 13 trailer loads" have been donated so far.
Jones added that the struggles only add to the hardship many farmers have had to face over the last few years, such as decreased farmland for agriculture.
"On a larger scale, we are losing farmers and farmland every day," Jones said. "We can't just stand by and watch a lot of farmers go out of business because they got hit by a catastrophe and nobody does anything about it. There's already been less cattle production, and less production overall the last two or three years, and so this is industrywide."
Mt. Pleasant Co-op Manager Keith Farmer said the urge to help is simply the nature of a farmer, especially when it's another farmer who needs it.
"Farm people always help farm people when in need, and we are agriculture people trying to help other ag people in need," Farmer said. "We've already been up there once with food and clothing right after it happened. These people had all their fencing and hay washed away for the winter, for their livestock. It's all about farmers helping farmers."
Josh Woodward of United Producers, Inc., has been overseeing the donations and said the first load of hay is set to ship out this week, and will be an ongoing operation as long as donations continue to come in, and there is enough money to cover costs.
"There has been a lot of generosity here locally, and it's been interesting seeing this thing come together," Woodward said. "We are donating hay because a lot of it just floated away, like literally is gone, and we've talked to a lot of folks up there who have lost a lot of cattle."
This also comes at a time when winter weather is about to set in, which will likely create even more troubles for farmers who have already had a troublesome year.
"The weather is obviously fixing to get bad, and we've all had a rough year as far as drought conditions throughout the state," Woodward said. "Their hay was tight anyway, and we've got farmers donating who probably don't even have enough themselves, but they are in a better situation than those folks out there."

Zion Christian to Rejoin TSSAA (MSM)
Zion Christian, which withdrew from the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association in 2021 because of enrollment concerns, was approved to rejoin the organization for the 2025-26 school year during its Board of Control meeting Thursday.
“I don’t think there’s a good time to make this decision, but at some point you’ve just got to rip the Band-Aid off and make it happen,” Zion Christian athletics director T.J. Derrick said. “We’ve talked the last 8, 10, 12 months – when is the best time? Why not now?
“It was something (previous ADs) Sam (Martin) and Kelly (Bratton) had been discussing before. It wasn’t like T.J. just got this rolling. It’s something that’s been being discussed heavily prior to me stepping into this role. I just wanted to get some things lined up and understand some things and be ready to go.”
When Zion Christian announced its departure from the TSSAA to join the Tennessee State Independent Athletic Association in May 2021, its reported enrollment of 123 students in grades 9-12 was among the 20 smallest in the former organization.
“We had some challenges,” Zion Christian head of school Rick Jarvis said. “We wanted to reset some things and give these kids an opportunity for success. (The move) has served its purpose in terms of re-establishing some success, resetting our coaching staffs.
“Because of where we’re going, with growth and anticipated growth, this feels like the right time. Our plan all along was to go back to the TSSAA. It’s the primary athletic organization in the state.”
Zion’s current enrollment of 155 provides Jarvis and Derrick with some encouragement – as does this calendar year’s athletic performance, as the softball program won its third consecutive TSIAA championship while the baseball and boys soccer teams finished as runner-up. This fall, the school’s golf team also placed second in the TSIAA tournament.
“We’ve grown a little over 27 percent (since 2021),” Derrick said. “That doesn’t sound like a lot, but when you’re at 120 and jump up 30, that helps.
“We’ve had some good talent through here. What we have in this core group – in middle school and high school early years – as we look to move forward as a school, both as an academy and athletically, we felt this puts us in the best position to move forward long term.”
As a former TSSAA member, Zion Christian was readmitted as an ‘affiliate member’, meaning none of their programs will be eligible for postseason play for their first year of membership.
“If they meet the criteria for membership (an accredited institution that is a Category 1, 2, 3 or 4 with the Tennessee Department of Education), we’re generally going to approve anyone that requests membership,” TSSAA executive director Mark Reeves said. “When we have a school that was previously a member and they left and they’re coming back, they’re considered affiliate members.
“We talked with them a little (prior to approval). There was question whether they were going to try to transition to 11-man football and if they wanted to do that next year. We had those talks with them because we needed to know in preparation for (reclassification). They indicated they wanted to get back to 11-man as soon as possible, but they might not be ready to be placed in a region yet, so they’re going to play a non-region schedule if they decide to play 11-man.”
With 27 players on this fall’s roster and 11 eighth-graders – who played an eight-game schedule, with seven of those being 11-man contests – Derrick said the program is prepared to play 11-man football in 2025.
“What we didn’t want to do was let football be the driving force behind this,” he said. “Football obviously plays a huge role. Our goal is to be back to 11-man and play a non-region schedule for the first two-year (scheduling) cycle.”
For its remaining sports, Zion Christian will be assigned to Division II-A District 3 – joining Maury County’s other private school member of the TSSAA, Columbia Academy.
“It’ll definitely be a fun environment to have somebody local and right down the street that you can play and have a rivalry against,” CA athletics director Pernell Knox said. “We’re glad for them.”

River Bend Event Center Opening (WKOM Audio 1:41)
Yesterday, River Bend Event Center in Williamsport held their grand opening. WKOM/WKRM’s Delk Kennedy stopped by the ribbon cutting and spoke to the proprietors of the new large event center…

Sculptures Unveiled (Press Release)
The City of Columbia proudly unveiled two new sculptures in the heart of the Columbia Arts District, showcasing the creativity and talent of local artists Kevin Hale and Joseph Hazelwood. Held November 22, 2024 at 3:00 PM on South Garden Street, the event marked a significant addition to the city’s cultural landscape, drawing residents and city leaders together to celebrate this artistic milestone.
“Our Arts District has become a cornerstone of Columbia’s tourism appeal, drawing visitors and fueling our local economy,” said Tourism and Marketing Director Kellye Murphy. “In 2023 alone, visitors to Columbia and Maury County contributed $136,859,400 in direct visitor spending. By continuing to expand attractions and cultural offerings in areas like our Arts District, we can further boost this spending and attract even more visitors. Investments like these do more than beautify our community—they support local businesses, generate tax revenue, and make Columbia a top destination, driving sustainable growth in our tourism industry.”
The sculptures are installed atop newly constructed art pedestals, completed as part of the Arts District Streetscape Project. This streetscape transformation, part of the City’s investment in revitalizing public spaces, included wide sidewalks, designated street parking, a one-way traffic pattern, enhanced landscaping, modern lighting, comfortable benches, and five art pedestals positioned in key gathering areas. These pedestals now serve as showcases for Columbia’s vibrant arts community, offering visitors a place to gather, admire, and connect with the city’s creative spirit.
“These sculptures are more than just art; they represent the spirit and soul of our city,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “By showcasing the incredible talent of artists like Kevin Hale and Joseph Hazelwood, we’re not only enriching our Arts District but also fostering a community that values creativity, inclusivity, and shared experiences. The streetscape project is yet another way Columbia is becoming a destination for art, culture, and connection.”
The event began with remarks from city leaders, followed by the artists sharing insights into their inspirations and creative processes. The sculptures, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and thoughtfully integrated into Columbia’s history and aspirations, now stand proudly as symbols of community pride within the bustling Arts District.
City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the significance of public art in community engagement and urban development. "Public art brings people together, creating connections and sparking conversations," Massey stated. "The City of Columbia is proud to support local artists and provide platforms where their work can be shared and celebrated. This installation is a testament to our commitment to building a thriving cultural district that speaks to the creativity of our residents.”
The new sculptures mark an exciting chapter in the continued development of Columbia’s public spaces and underscore the city’s dedication to nurturing a flourishing cultural community.

Grecian Thanksgiving (MauryCountySource)
Grecian Family Restaurant and Bakery will once again host a free Thanksgiving Day meal this year. This event is open to all, especially anyone in need, first responders, emergency room staff, sick, elderly, or people spending the holiday alone.
WHEN: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Nov. 28
WHERE: 2003 Wall Street, Spring Hill
“No one should be without a warm Thanksgiving meal or companionship,” Owners Frank and Sasa Georgalos said. “No prior registration is needed, just come and enjoy! We will be serving until 3 p.m., or until we run out of food.”
The traditional Thanksgiving meal is available for dine-in, carry out or for delivery. For a meal to be delivered, sign up is required on the restaurant website. Also, volunteers and those interested in making food donations will find a sign-up form on the website. Click here: https://www.restaurantspringhill.com.
Donations may be brought to the restaurant at 2003 Wall Street, Spring Hill. For drop-off days and times, call 615-302-4808.
The grateful owners continued. “Let’s make this Thanksgiving a day filled with memories and giving. Thank you all for your support!”
Grecian Family Restaurant and Bakery in Spring Hill, Tennessee served more than 1,000 free Thanksgiving meals in 2023. The restaurant also has a “pay it forward” board where customers can prepay for meals for those in need.

Maury County Clerk Satellite Office (Press Release)
The Maury County Clerk’s office can now help residents with renewals of license plates or placards each Wednesday from 8am to 3:30pm at the Maury County Senior Center located at 1020 Maury County Park Dr.
Please drive around to the back of the building and look for the car tag renewal sign near the back door.
Forms of payment include credit/debit card or check – no cash.
Any Maury County Resident can use this office.
All other transactions will still need to be done through the main office located at 10 Public Square.
Also, you can renew online at TNCountyClerk.com or at kiosks in Spring Hill City Hall or Mt. Pleasant Courthouse.

And now, news from around the state…
Franklin Charge Acquires Land (WilliamsonScene)
Franklin’s Charge Inc., a nonprofit devoted to the preservation of Franklin’s Civil War battlefield, completed a busy two-year period when it purchased on Friday, Nov. 22, the former site of the Sedberry Building at 1200 Columbia Ave. 
The Sedberry Building is located near the Carter House State Historic Site and on core battlefield property. According to Eric Jacobson of the Battle of Franklin Trust, it was the location of some of the most ferocious fighting during the Nov. 30, 1864, Battle of Franklin.
Franklin’s Charge intends to demolish the Sedberry Building and return the property to its 1864 condition. Thereafter, the property will be transferred to the city of Franklin for incorporation into the Carter Hill Battlefield Park.
Over the past two years, Franklins’ Charge acquired two other properties of significant importance. In November 2021, Franklin’s Charge acquired two office building sites at 1224 Columbia Ave.  After the buildings on those sites are removed, the acreage will be transferred to the city of Franklin and incorporated into the Carter Hill Battlefield Park. 
This past summer, Franklin’s Charge acquired approximately 13 acres located adjacent to Roper’s Knob. This property will be donated by Franklin’s Charge to the city of Franklin. It will expand the overall protected property at Roper’s Knob, the site of a federal earthworks fort and signal station. The acreage purchased this summer will also be developed in the future into public access, parking, and trails to allow visitors to enjoy the fort and spacious views from atop Roper’s Knob.
Jim Lighthizer, former president of the American Battlefield Trust, has called Franklin’s battlefield reclamation efforts “a miracle” and among the most important and successful efforts in the country.
Clay Perry, president of Franklin’s Charge Inc., credits a team of volunteers and preservation partners for making this effort successful. In particular, Perry noted the support of the Washington, D.C.-based American Battlefield Trust, the Tennessee Historical Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, and the Tennessee Wars Commission.
Notable partners also include the city of Franklin, The Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area, the Battle of Franklin Trust, Save the Franklin Battlefield Inc., Friends of Franklin Parks, the City of Franklin Parks Department, and a legion of never-failing generous donors who support battlefield preservation in Franklin.

Lane Closures Halted for Holiday (Press Release)
Thanksgiving travelers will not be delayed by construction on Tennessee roads during this holiday. TDOT will halt all lane closure activity on interstates and state highways in anticipation of higher traffic volumes across the state. All construction-related lane closures will be stopped beginning at noon on Wednesday, November 27, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Ring in the Christmas season at the Christmas Barn Bash, located at The Barn at The Phelps Farm, tucked away in the foothills of Tennessee. It will surely be a memory that you will cherish for years to come.
The Phelps Farm is located at 2659 Culleoka Hwy, Culleoka.
Surrounded by fellow music lovers, the event will feature award-winning, platinum-selling recording artist David Phelps. You’ll hear Christmas classics, new and old, from the upbeat “Hallelujah,” to the soaring “O Holy Night”.
SHOWTIMES:
November 29, 2024, 7pm
November 30, 2024, 7pm
December 1, 2024, 7pm
Purchase tickets at www.davidphelps.com.