Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-16-24

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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 September 16, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
Maury Man Most Wanted Caught (Press Release)
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office has successfully apprehended Michael Van Dobbs, a fugitive wanted for criminal homicide out of Maury County. Dobbs, 48, was taken into custody at approximately 7:00 PM near Garrison Road and Natchez Trace Parkway in Williamson County.
Dobbs, who is a suspect in the murder of Harold “B.J” Grisham, had been the subject of a multi-agency search after a TNMostWanted Alert was issued. He was last seen near the Garrison Creek Trail Head on the Natchez Trace Scenic Trail, wearing a maroon long-sleeve shirt and black shorts.
A tip from an alert citizen who recognized Dobbs in the area and immediately notified law enforcement enabled deputies to locate and apprehend Dobbs without incident.
Dobbs is now in custody and will face charges stemming from the criminal homicide investigation in Maury County.
Law enforcement would like to thank everyone who shared information and helped bring this situation to a safe conclusion.

Lawrence County Fire (WKRN)
A house fire destroyed a home and caused the death of a family’s pet on Thursday in Lawrence County.
Lawrence County Fire Rescue (LCFR) shared that they received a call around 8 p.m. on Sept. 13 to a residence on fire with people possibly trapped inside.
When units arrived, the back of a two-story home was engulfed with fire. High wind speeds on Thursday drove the flames higher, LCFR said.
An additional fire engine from Lawrenceburg arrived on the scene, as did several fire units from New Prospect. Fire engines and tankers were used to shuttle water to the house because the water supply on the scene was insufficient.
First responders were able to get in contact with the homeowners and learned that there was no one in the home. Despite their efforts, LCFR said the homeowners believed at least one pet did not survive.
LCFR said it took nearly four hours for the scene to be cleared.

City Applying for Tornado Siren Grant (CDH)
In an effort to provide better safety measures during a catastrophic event, Columbia City Council has applied for a grant that would fund an emergency alarm system within the downtown district.
The State of Tennessee Small Cities Development Block Grant program was a pursuit spawned by Columbia's recent tornado on May 8, which swept through the city's rural areas down Bear Creek Pike, leaving hundreds of homes damaged and resulting in one death.
"On May 8, we had an event affect our community that some folks are still recovering from," Columbia Fire Chief Chris Cummins said.
"Hopefully, with this and everything going through on this grant, we in the very near future can have an early warning system, all comprehensive, that will notify and protect our community. It will give them a little more knowledge of what's going on before the event takes place. It's something we definitely need in our community and is well warranted."
Currently, Columbia does not have a citywide warning system, with only a limited range siren located at Columbia State Community College. The Office of Emergency Management recommends the new system feature a multi-faceted approach to emergency alerts, such as tone/voice sirens, wireless alerts or televised warnings.
As per the grant application, the city is seeking $420,000 through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Block Grant Program, with a total project budget of $525,000. If approved, the grant would also be funded 100% without any match or additional contribution required by the city, or the taxpayers.
Councilman Danny Coleman was also instrumental in working with Columbia Fire & Rescue staff to complete the grant application.
"With all of the tornadic activity that's been coming through, I wish we would have already had this in place, of course, but this will be incredible," Coleman said.
"I still remember that day picking my daughter up from school and her saying, 'I didn't hear any tornado sirens,' and I thought we had some, but we only had the one at the college. Hopefully, we'll be able to get something a little more comprehensive so that everybody around knows something serious is happening."
Council members also voted to apply for a new grant to fund the installation of 12 new pickleball and six tennis courts at Ridley Park.
The 2024 Blue Cross Healthy Places Grant would be funded up to $1 million for the project, if approved.
Columbia Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan said not only has the sport of pickleball grown in popularity, but its draw would also "fit right into" the economic impact other sports events at Ridley tend to bring in.
"Given that it's Ridley and the location, it will not only be for local use, but for our locals to form tournaments," Reagan said. "With our new economic formula, we're looking at bringing in about $23 million in economic impact at Ridley Park alone, along with premier girls softball bringing in about $20 million a year. This will fit really into what our original scope of play was ... and will hopefully bring us up to that whopping $30 million soon."
Reagan added that the pickleball and tennis courts will be separate, but can provide multiple uses, such as pop-up basketball tournaments.
"We can pull portable basketball goals out there and play on them. There are a lot of things we can do with it, but with the way pickleball has grown and has been, I think we can fill these courts up day one."
Vice Mayor Randy McBroom agreed, given that he has witnessed pickleball's popularity in Columbia in person.
"My daughter played in a tournament this past weekend, and I'd say at least 500 people came through there," McBroom said. "It was positive, music was playing and everyone was having a good time. We have a good facility here to do this."

Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (Press Release)
The City of Columbia is proud to announce the commencement of the 4th year of the Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (CMYC). The 2024-25 class held its inaugural meeting on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Columbia City Hall. This year’s CMYC is made up of students from various Maury County high schools who have demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and community service. The CMYC’s mission is to educate students about local government, encourage civic participation, and develop future leaders within Columbia’s diverse high school population. Monthly meetings and community projects will provide opportunities for students to engage directly with their local government and make a positive impact on the community. The 2024-25 CMYC members were selected through an open application process, available to all public, private, and home-schooled high school students in Maury County. Applications were accepted from August 1st through August 23rd. Mayor Chaz Molder shared his enthusiasm for the new class, stating, “Being a homegrown Columbian, and also the youngest Mayor to serve in this role, investing in our youth has been a top priority for me from the very beginning, and I am proud to see the continued success of the Mayor’s Youth Council. This program has created a meaningful platform for young leaders to contribute to our community. The students selected for this year’s Council all bring fresh perspectives and a shared passion for making Columbia a better place. I am excited to see what they will accomplish and proud of this investment in our future, because I have no doubt it will make meaningful returns.”
To learn more about the CMYC or stay updated on their projects and initiatives, visit www.columbiatn.gov/cmyc. You can also follow the Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council on Facebook and Instagram.

MRMC Stroke Alliance (Press Release)
The United Stroke Alliance is hosting a Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp, a transformative weekend retreat designed for stroke survivors and their caregivers. This experience-packed weekend will take place October 18-20 at Pickwick Landing State Park in Counce, Tennessee. This event is proudly sponsored by Maury Regional Health Care Foundation with volunteers from the nursing team at Maury Regional Medical Center.
“We’re proud to sponsor this important event that brings together stroke survivors and their caregivers in a nurturing and educational environment,” said Courtney Lewandowski, development specialist of the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation. “The Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp offers a unique opportunity for participants to find community, learn valuable information and focus on their well-being.”
The United Stroke Alliance is a global, non-profit organization dedicated to uniting and educating people about the prevention, awareness and recovery of stroke for survivors, caregivers and their families.
The Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp is an opportunity for stroke survivors and their caregivers to escape the routine of daily life and immerse themselves in a supportive community. This weekend retreat is filled with engaging activities, educational sessions and plenty of relaxation, all tailored to the unique needs of those affected by stroke. An attendee can expect:
New friendships: Connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges.
Pampering and relaxation: Take advantage of sessions focused on personal care and relaxation.
Comfortable accommodation: Stay in cozy rooms with the tranquil setting of Pickwick Landing State Park.
Delicious meals: Enjoy meals that cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
Creative outlets: Participate in therapeutic and fun craft activities.
Educational sessions: Gain insights from experts on stroke recovery and caregiving.
Engaging discussions: Share your experience and learn from others during facilitated discussions.
Games and entertainment: Enjoy a variety of games and entertainment options.
And more!
 
Several Maury Regional Health employees are volunteering at the event, including Amanda Cothran, disease specific coordinator at Maury Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Services administration, where she will present a session on ‘life after stroke.’
“Attending Stroke Camp provides an opportunity to not only learn about life after a stroke but also to connect with others who are on a similar journey,” said Cothran. “I’ll be sharing insights on recovery, navigating challenges and how to rebuild your life with confidence. This camp is about empowerment—helping stroke survivors and their families feel supported and informed every step of the way.
The cost for the weekend is $100 per person, and registration is now open. Rooms are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and to register, visit strokecamp.org, click ‘find a camp’ and follow the prompts to select the camp in Columbia. For questions, you can contact the United Stroke alliance at 309.688.5450 or visit strokealliance.com.
Maury Regional Medical Center is recognized with certification as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Physicians providing care include Maury Regional Medical Group (MRMG) hospital-based neurologists, a neurosurgeon and other clinical professionals.

Mt. Pleasant Bicentennial (Press Release)
In honor of Mount Pleasant’s 200th anniversary, the community will host a Bicentennial Home Tour on September 27 and 28, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This special event will offer an exclusive look inside some of the town’s most beautiful and historic buildings providing a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and charm of Mount Pleasant.
The Bicentennial Home Tour will feature a carefully curated selection of homes that represent the diverse architectural heritage of Mount Pleasant.
“This tour is not just about viewing beautiful homes; it’s about celebrating our community’s legacy and the people who have shaped it over the past 200 years,” said Haverly Pennington, Director of Main Street Mount Pleasant. “We’re excited to share Mount Pleasant’s history with residents and visitors alike.”
Event Details:
Dates: September 27 & 28, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Various homes throughout Mount Pleasant
Tickets: Available for purchase at Mount Pleasant Visitors Center and Maury County Visitors Center for $35. 

Proceeds from the event will benefit Main Street Mount Pleasant. For more information on Main Street Mount Pleasant, tickets, or volunteer roles, please visit the Mount Pleasant Visitors Center at 205 N. Main Street Mount Pleasant, TN.
“We are grateful for the support of our Co-Chair Jennifer Graham and volunteers who are helping to make this event a success,” said Haverly Pennington. “Their commitment to Mount Pleasant’s future is a testament to the spirit of our community.”
Come celebrate Mount Pleasant’s rich past and bright future!

Room in the Inn Octoberfest Fundraiser (Press Release)
Mark your calendars, Columbia – Room in the Inn’s biggest fundraiser of the year is just around the corner! On October 4th, the community is invited to join in the Oktoberfest festivities and support a fantastic local cause.
Room in the Inn is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing shelter, resources, and hope to single mothers and their children in need. Their latest project, Grace House, aims to create a safe, supportive living space with individual beds, private bedrooms and bathrooms, a community kitchen, and laundry facilities. All proceeds from this year’s Oktoberfest event will go directly towards the construction of Grace House, making a real difference in the lives of local families.
So what can you expect at this year’s Oktoberfest celebration? Plenty of fun, food, and community spirit! The event will take place on October 4 at Riverwalk Park in Columbia from 6pm -10pm. Guests will be able to enjoy local craft beer tastings, delicious fare from food trucks, live music, and traditional Oktoberfest games and activities. Riverwalk Park is located at 102 Riverside Drive, Columbia.

Athenaeum Candlelight Tour (Press Release)
The Athenaeum Rectory, one of Columbia’s premier historic sites, located at 808 Athenaeum Street, will be hosting their Annual Candlelight tour on Sept 28 from 7-9 PM. Come tour the Rectory the way it needs to be seen, by nothing but Candlelight and learn the mourning customs of the 19th century.  Tickets are $10 per person and available at the door. The ticket price goes towards the perpetual upkeep of the Athenaeum Rectory historic site. Learn more by visiting historicathenaeum.com.

Fall Festival to Return (Press Release)
Columbia Main Street is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated Second Annual FALL FEST, scheduled to take place on September 28th from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm 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 Maury County FALL FEST pageant, and paint a mini pumpkin! Additionally, attendees can support local businesses by shopping with artisan-craft vendors, eating from delicious food trucks, purchasing a ticket for the Kiwanis Chili Cook Off or pre-registering to participate in the Miss Maury 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,” says Kelli 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.” For more information about the Second Annual FALL FEST, including how to participate or volunteer, please visit columbiamainstreet.com or follow Columbia Main Street on social media.

And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…
Mr. Billy Joe Senter, 87, former longtime resident of New Cut Road in Columbia, died Saturday, September 14, 2024 at his granddaughter’s residence in Austin, Kentucky where he had made his home recently. A graveside service will be conducted Tuesday, September 17 at 11:00 a.m. at Philadelphia Cemetery on Fred White Road in Maury County. The family will visit with friends Tuesday following the service at the cemetery. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Directors are assisting the family with arrangements.

Mr. Danny Stinnett, 54, roadway mechanic for CSX, and resident of Hampshire, died Thursday, September 12 at Maury Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday September 18 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Worley Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Tuesday, September 17 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

And now, news from around the state…
UT Enrollment Numbers Up (Tennessean)
Classes have been in session for a few weeks now, meaning enrollment numbers have been set in stone, finalizing a new record for the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
This fall, campus welcomed 38,728 students, which is 1,000 more than estimated when classes began Aug. 19. A total of 6,804 first-year students joined the Volunteer family for the class of 2028.
UT credits its record-breaking enrollment to a record 91.9% retention for first-year and sophomore students. In 2019, the retention rate was 86.5%, meaning UT has grown the rate by more than 5% in five years.
This fall's enrollment had a 6.7% increase over last year. The number of undergraduate students grew 6%, and graduate students grew 10%.
“The hands-on programming and community-building efforts that we have put into place over the last several years are paying off and helping ensure our students have the confidence and the resources they need to thrive here on Rocky Top,” Chancellor Donde Plowman said in a news release. “I’m incredibly proud of the way everyone on campus, including faculty, staff and administration, take ownership in the success of our students.”
In another new record, UT received 59,764 first-year applications, including 13,515 applications from in-state students. In-state high school students have the opportunity to receive guaranteed admission to any UT campus, as long as they meet the requirements.

Rutherford Tree To Come Down (WKRN)
The last surviving sycamore tree originally planted at the corners of the Rutherford County courthouse has been scheduled to be removed in November.
The county estimated the tree’s age to be between 179 and 184, however, they added that the tree has been ailing for years. Rob Kraker, a member of the International Society of Aboriculture and “Tree Whisperer,” tried to help by conducting a root cellar excavation process. Ultimately, though, that effort was unsuccessful due to a harsh winter and storm damage that the tree later sustained.
A Rutherford County historian, Greg Tucker, wrote about the tree.
“The tree was the oldest living thing on the square, the Courthouse Sycamore evidences our community’s legacy and expansive history,” Tucker said.
However, not all hope is lost. Rutherford County mayor Joe Carr directed that a graft be obtained from the current tree. That way, a genetically identical sycamore could be planted at the courthouse. A replacement tree will be placed in the spot where the sycamore currently stands until a new genetic line is planted in the spot.
Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Tennessee State Parks will join First Lady Maria Lee’s Tennessee Serves initiative Sept. 19-29 with volunteer work events at parks across the state. The volunteer opportunities coincide with National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Through Tennessee Serves, the First Lady invites Tennesseans to join her efforts to transform the state through service. Each month, a service challenge is presented to encourage Tennesseans to roll up their sleeves and serve communities, and September’s challenge is serving Tennessee State Parks.
Gov. Bill Lee has issued a proclamation declaring September as Conservation Month.
Tennessee Serves activities include such tasks as trail cleanup, garbage pickup, and removing invasive species. 
“Tennessee State Parks deserve our care, and these volunteer events help us ensure Tennessee continues to be home to the best parks in America,” First Lady Lee said. “We are grateful to all volunteers involved in these service events, and we encourage every Tennessean to get involved in keeping our state parks beautiful.”
For more information on National Public Lands Day go to the link www.neefusa.org.