Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-3-24

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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 3, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
I Count Week (MSM)
The City of Columbia has announced the launch of “I Count” Week, a special initiative aimed at encouraging all residents to participate in the Special Census and ensure an accurate count of the city’s growing population.
“I Count” Week kicked off with a community event on Saturday, at Fairview Park.
This event was designed to make the online self-response process both easy and enjoyable for everyone. Attendees to the event completed the Special Census online during the event and received free popcorn and shaved ice for their effort.
To complete the Special Census online, residents will need their 12-digit Census ID, which was mailed to their address by the U.S. Census Bureau. The questionnaire is quick and straightforward, taking about 10 minutes on average. The online response window is open through Sept. 6, 2024. City officials want to assure the public that all information provided to the Census Bureau is kept strictly confidential and is used solely for statistical purposes.
Accurate population data is vital for the fair allocation of resources, and the City of Columbia has partnered with the U.S. Census Bureau to conduct this Special Census. Since the 2020 Census, Columbia has seen significant population growth, and the initiative is designed to ensure that every resident is counted. Proper census data helps the city secure essential funding for critical services like education, public safety and infrastructure, directly benefiting the community.
“We urge all Columbia residents to participate in the 2024 Special Census to help build a stronger, more resilient community. By responding online during “I Count” Week, you can avoid an in-person visit from a U.S. Census Bureau employee, who will otherwise conduct door-to-door surveys from Sept. 25 to Nov. 14, 2024. Your timely participation online not only helps streamline the census process but also supports the growth and development of our city,” city officials said in a press release announcing “I Count” Week.
“Remember, accurate census data ensures that Columbia receives its fair share of state funding, which is essential for maintaining and improving our local schools, public services and infrastructure. Your participation truly makes a difference. Be counted for Columbia’s future!”

Maury Regional Named Top Heart Attack Centers (Press Release)
Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Gold Performance Achievement Award for 2024. MRMC is one of only 61 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.
The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.
“We are extremely proud to receive this award from the American College of Cardiology. This recognition highlights the exceptional care and dedication of our cardiology team in delivering lifesaving treatment to our patients,” said MRMC CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “This reflects our ongoing efforts to remain focused on advancing health for our community, resulting in the best outcomes.”
Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.
The award recognizes MRMC’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that MRMC has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.
To receive the Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Gold Performance Achievement Award, MRMC has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022) and performed at the top level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.
“It is an honor to award Maury Regional Medical Center with the Gold Performance Award for their valuable national leadership and dedication to meeting comprehensive performance measures in patient care,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “The receipt of this award indicates that Maury Regional Medical Center remains committed to providing top quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients. Their success ensures patients are receiving the highest quality cardiovascular care.”
To learn more about heart services at MRMC, please visit MauryRegional.com/Heart.

CSCC Breaks Ground on New Tech Building (CDH)
Columbia State Community College took the next major step in constructing its new Southern Regional Technology Center, a project aimed to become a cornerstone for the region's future economic growth and workforce development.
The approximately $50 million SRTC project was celebrated Wednesday with a groundbreaking ceremony, which in addition to Columbia State staff was attended by several Columbia and Maury County leaders.
"Today, we had the chance to shovel dirt for the beginning of a building that will help educate and train the workforce of the future," Mayor Chaz Molder posted to social media Wednesday afternoon. "There’s a lot of things I love about this building and its potential for the college, our community and our region.
"I’m proud the [City of Columbia] could be a partner in this venture, among many partners, and we stand by the college, the state’s first community college, today, and all days ahead."
In September of 2022, Columbia approved a $100,000 appropriation for the new facility, while also committing to an annual $25,000 allotment over the next four years.
The SRTC project was made possible through partnerships between Columbia State and Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) campuses at Hohenwald and Pulaski. The SRTC is also the college's first building to be approved in more than 20 years.
Previously described by Columbia State President Dr. Janet F. Smith as a state-of-the art facility, the building will serve as a center-point in providing the latest training in industry and healthcare fields with an emphasis on business partnerships, offering students internship, apprenticeships and job placement opportunities.
The 99,000 square-foot building, estimated at $50 million, will house programs that will provide graduating students an associate degree of applied science and technical certifications in advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, CNC machining training, industrial maintenance, fire science, EMS, nursing, radiology, medical lab technology, engineering systems technology, respiration care technology, health informatics and veterinary technology.
Once completed, the state-of-the-art facility will serve as a regional hub for both citizens and employers, offering the latest industry and healthcare training.
The SRTC will emphasize partnerships through internships, apprenticeships, program development and job placement. Educational offerings include diplomas, technical certificates and associate of applied science degrees.

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.

Commodity Distribution
The South Central Human Resource Agency announced that they will be conducting a commodities distribution through the US Department of Agriculture. The food distribution will take place from 9-10am on Thursday, September 5th at Graymere Church of Christ, located at 1320 Trotwood Avenue in Columbia.
This food distribution is intended help with food insecurity in the community and will be distributed on a first come-first serve basis to those who are eligible. Eligibility will be based on total household income that is within the income guidelines. Anyone receiving aid from SNAP, Families First, SSI, LIHEAP or proof of residency in public housing are eligible for USDA Commodities.
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.

Celebrate Spring Hill Event (CDH)
The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce “Celebrate Spring Hill 2024,” presented by John Maher Builders. This longest-standing annual event celebrates the community spirit and the invaluable contributions of the Spring Hill Chamber.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening on Sept. 14 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Worldwide Stages, 5000 Northfield Lane, Door 100 in Spring Hill.
Proceeds will benefit the Chamber of Commerce.
Included with Tickets will be :
Craft cocktails
A Culinary experience
Whiskey tasting
Dueling piano show
Gaming tables
And Valet parking
Attire is elegant or cocktail chic.
There will be valet parking at Door 100.
Sponsors include as follows:
 Presenting Sponsor: John Maher Builders
 Celebration Partner: Worldwide Stages
 Gold Sponsors: Maury Regional Health, TriStar Spring Hill ER, Vanderbilt Health, Williamson Health
 Silver Sponsors: Listerhill Credit Union
 Bronze Sponsors: Company Distilling, Premier Design Build, Parkway Wine & Spirits
 Supporting Sponsor: Hampton Inn Spring Hill, Ascend Federal Credit Union
“Celebrate Spring Hill” is a highly anticipated annual benefit for the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. This year’s event promises a night of community, celebration, and impact by showcasing our timeless community assets, and celebrating the Chamber's work and mission.
Tickets are available now through September 1st. Reserve your spot today by visiting our website at https://tinyurl.com/ffuffhds.

Columbia Academy Lecture (Press Release)
Columbia Academy will host an event detailing the history and architecture of the Columbia Arsenal and details found from the recently discovered blueprints housed at the National Archives in College Park, Md.
The presentation will consist of a panel including: architect Justin Lowe of Centric Architecture, Columbia Academy President Dr. James A. Thomas, and me, County Archivist Tom Price.
Built in 1890 by the United States Government, the 67-acre campus was an active military installation known as the Columbia Arsenal and originally consisted of 10 buildings, six of which remain today. The arsenal closed shortly after the Spanish-American War in 1901 and transitioned into Columbia Military Academy in 1904. In 1979, the academy was turned over to a board from local Churches of Christ as they established Columbia Academy, a now PreK-12th grade private Christian school.
The lecture will take place in the Polk Hall (Upper School) Auditorium on Thursday, September 5th from 7:00-8:30 p.m. This free event is open to the public, and no tickets are necessary for admittance.
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, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…
Helen Morgan Brunson, age 95, longtime resident of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at her home.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in Arlington Cemetery in Mt. Pleasant. A visitation will be held on Saturday at 1:00 PM, immediately preceding the funeral service.

Dr. Sami Badie Naddy, 59, father, husband, son, and beloved pharmacist of Columbia, died Friday, August 30, 2024 surrounded by his whole family at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, September 7th 2024 at 12:00 PM at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with the Reverend Chris Bowhay officiating. Inurnment will follow at St. John’s Episcopal Church Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 10:30am until 12:00pm in the Parish Hall at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

And now, news from around the state…
New Driver’s License Design (MSM)
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) is issuing new Driver Licenses and ID cards with a fresh design and improved security features along with new self-service kiosks, which can reduce wait times at Driver Service Centers. The new credentials and kiosks will expand to all Driver Service Centers over the next few months.
The new Driver Licenses and ID cards prominently feature a stylized version of Tennessee’s historic State Capitol and state flag with its iconic three-stars representing the state’s three grand divisions. The new design features waves and patterns printed in very fine lines that are not able to be scanned or easily reproduced.
The new credentials are made with a sturdy poly-carbonate composition, incorporate cutting edge security and printing techniques. This includes elaborate overlapping of data and graphics and laser engraved elements that will show if the document has been altered or is fraudulent. A machine-readable barcode with applicable class, endorsements, and restrictions are printed on the back of the card. A mini ghost image repeated from the photograph is encoded elements for automated validation to help reduce identity theft.
“The new Tennessee Driver Licenses incorporate the latest technology which makes them more difficult to counterfeit, alter, or duplicate,” said TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long. “These countermeasures help prevent theft and fraud and help keep your identity safe.”
There is no need for citizens to obtain a new Driver License or ID with the new design before their existing license or ID expires. Driver Licenses and ID cards with the old design will be in use alongside the new cards. Previously issued Driver Licenses are valid until the expiration date listed on the card. Individuals do not need to replace their current Driver License or ID card unless their current credential has reached its expiration or a required change is needed, such as a name or address change.
The new design will apply to all credentials issued by the TDOSHS including Regular Driver Licenses, Teen/Graduated Driver Licenses, Commercial Driver Licenses, Motorcycle License, ID Only License, REAL IDs, and Handgun Carry Permits.
“We are excited about the added flexibility and convenience the new self-service kiosks will provide for Tennesseans,” said Long. “Citizens can complete many Driver Services transactions at one of these new kiosks which will help reduce wait times at Driver Services Centers.”
Tennesseans can use the self-service kiosk to complete many Driver Services transactions including renewing or replacing a duplicate Driver License or ID Card, changing an address, updating emergency contact information, advancing a Teen/Graduated Driver License, paying reinstatement fees and requesting a license reissue after reinstatement requirements are met. The new kiosks can take photos and process payments with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a credit or debit card.
For more information on Tennessee Driver Services including the new self-service kiosks and Driver Licenses and ID cards visit tn.gov/safety/driver-services.html.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
GRAMMY® Award-winning vocalist, songwriter, guitar legend, producer, and Gov’t Mule frontman Warren Haynes will release his new solo album, Million Voices Whisper, this fall.
Due out November 1st, Haynes produced Million Voices Whisper (Fantasy Records) and marks his first solo album in almost a decade and the fourth solo collection in Warren’s esteemed career catalog.
In support, his Warren Haynes Band will hit the road on a 16-date fall headlining tour that stops locally in Nashville on Saturday, October 5 at the Ryman Auditorium. Tickets and various VIP packages are on sale now at www.warrenhaynes.net.