Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-25-24

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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 25, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
Suspect on the Run (MauryCountySource)
The Spring Hill Police Department is searching for a suspect they say fled on foot from a traffic stop.
According to SHPD, 41-year-old Michael Pruitt has multiple arrest warrants.
He is described as 5’11” and 190 pounds. Police say he has buzz cut hair and was last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants.
Williamson County Sheriff units along with a helicopter were patrolling the area around The Crossings.
If anyone has information on his whereabouts you can send an anonymous tip at www.springhilltn.org.

Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Station (Press Release)
The City of Columbia, in partnership with Columbia Power and Water Systems (CPWS), the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), and the Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation (TDEC), recently hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation of new Electric Vehicle (EV) Fast Charging Stations.
“These charging stations represent a crucial step in Columbia’s efforts to support the growth of electric vehicles and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for our city and state,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “By working alongside partners like CPWS, TVA, and TDEC, we are able to position Columbia at the forefront of green energy initiatives.”
Funded through a $300,000 grant from TVA and TDEC, these new stations are part of a statewide initiative to expand EV infrastructure along Tennessee’s interstates and major highways. Columbia is proud to be part of this statewide effort, which supports the future of clean transportation and contributes to a greener, more sustainable environment.
President and CEO of CPWS Jonathan Hardin stated, “Columbia Power and Water Systems would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Maury County and City of Columbia governments for their partnership and forward thinking as we expand the energy portfolio into cleaner means of transportation. We all operate under the umbrella of responsible stewardship and progressive thinking facilitated by the Tennessee Valley Authority and the State of Tennessee and local efforts are capably supported by the South-Central Tennessee Development District, among others. The rapid pace of technological advancement in transportation necessitates a vast infrastructure to robustly serve the travel needs of the electric vehicle driving public. CPWS staff was entirely responsible for building this charging station and we are excited that EV drivers will have their charging needs efficiently met in Maury County. Once here, we are excited they get to experience the gem that is our beloved town of Columbia!”
The newly installed charging stations feature Level 3 DC Fast Chargers, which can provide an 80% charge to a standard EV in just 15-20 minutes. This rapid charging capability allows EV drivers to power up quickly during short stops, making sustainable travel more convenient than ever.
Chris Templeton, Customer Service Manager for TVA, emphasized the importance of the growing Fast Charge Network: “TVA is truly committed to supporting the expansion of the fast charge network. By working to establish these charging locations every 50 miles, we can meet the needs of the growing population of EV drivers. Congratulations to Columbia on becoming the 39th installation site, and we look forward to the positive impact this will bring to the community."
Columbia is one of 12 cities benefiting from a portion of the $5.2 million in funding from TVA and TDEC’s competitive grant program. This program supports the installation of 32 charging units at 13 sites across the state. The initiative is part of TVA’s broader Fast Charge Network, designed to reduce barriers to EV adoption by deploying fast chargers every 50 miles along major highways and interstates across its seven-state service area by 2026.
Chuck Yoest, Deputy Director of TDEC’s Office of Energy Programs, added, “We at TDEC look forward to continuing our great partnership with TVA to build out a network of charging stations that will put Tennessee on the map as an EV epicenter of the United States.”
The Fast Charge TN Network, developed through a partnership between TDEC and TVA, aims to address infrastructure gaps by adding approximately 40 new charging locations along prioritized corridors. This initiative is crucial in supporting the growing use of EVs and reducing barriers to transportation electrification, ensuring a more sustainable future for Tennessee and beyond.

Fairfield Inn Renovates (Press Release)
Fairfield Inn Columbia, TN which is managed and owned by Halifax Hospitality, LLC is thrilled to announce the completion of a significant renovation project, designed to elevate the guest experience and modernize the hotel’s amenities. Located conveniently off I-65 and Bear Creek Pike, the newly renovated Fairfield Inn Columbia, TN offers an inviting atmosphere with refreshed spaces and updated facilities.
The extensive renovations include:
Guest Room Refresh: All 79 guest rooms have been redesigned with contemporary decor, plush bedding, and modern conveniences to be enjoyed by every guest.
Expanded Lobby Area: The lobby has been transformed into a welcoming space with updated furnishings, enhanced technology and expansive seating for those enjoying our complimentary hot breakfast each morning as well as for guests wanting to conduct business in an open setting.
Enhanced Meeting Facilities: The hotel now features updates to our meeting room that is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, perfect for business travelers and social gatherings for 2-40 people.
Outdoor Patio: An inviting outdoor patio area has been enhanced, providing guests with a serene space to relax and unwind in the fresh air as well as enjoy the grilles, cafe tables and fire place.  
“We are excited to welcome both new and returning guests to experience our enhanced facilities,” said Erin Brewer, General Manager, of the Fairfield Inn Columbia. “These renovations reflect our commitment to providing a top-notch experience that meets the needs of our guests while capturing the charm of Columbia, TN.” 
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit marriott.com/bnafc or call 931 548 8444.

Columbia 101 a Success (Press Release)
The City of Columbia is proud to announce the successful completion of the inaugural Columbia 101 program, an initiative designed to engage residents with local government and community services. Held on September 17th and 18th, Columbia 101 provided participants with a unique, hands-on opportunity to interact with city officials, learn about municipal services, and explore avenues for community involvement.
Mayor Chaz Molder praised the program’s impact, stating, “Columbia 101 gives our residents an opportunity to go behind the scenes and understand the inner workings of their local government. It bridges the gap between our administration and the community, fostering engagement, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility. I am proud of the success of this inaugural program and excited to see it continue.”
The two-day program kicked off at the Columbia Police Department, where attendees were introduced to the city's twelve departments, including Development Services, Fire & Rescue, and Public Works. Participants also toured select facilities, gaining firsthand insights into how vital city services are delivered.
City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the long-term benefits of the initiative: “Columbia 101 is an integral part of the City of Columbia’s long-term strategic plan to build a well-informed and engaged community. By educating residents about city operations and resources, we empower them to contribute to the growth and development of Columbia.”
The program was created and facilitated by Marketing Coordinator Lexi Dearborn, who explained the vision behind Columbia 101: “The city is committed to strengthening transparency between residents and local government. Columbia 101 was designed with that goal in mind, providing an opportunity for residents to gain valuable insights into city operations. Our aim is to build a more informed and engaged community that plays an active role in shaping Columbia's future."
Participants shared positive feedback, with one attendee remarking, “There is so much to be proud of here in Columbia. There is an abundance of riches in the quality of government in all departments. Columbia 101 is an experience everyone should take advantage of."
Columbia 101 will be offered twice per year and is open to all City of Columbia and Maury County residents. The next session will be announced in the coming months, and those interested are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit the City of Columbia’s website at columbiaTN.gov.

DUI Checkpoint (Press Release)
The Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting sobriety roadside safety checkpoints during the week of October 4th on State RT. 50 at the 0 Mile Marker in Maury County starting at 10:00PM .
Impaired driving is a serious crime that kills more than 16,000 people and injures 305,000 people every year in the United States. Troopers will evaluate drivers for signs of alcohol or drug impairment. Troopers will target those who operate a vehicle while impaired and take corrective actions for other violations observed while ensuring the protection of all motorists.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol recognizes that sobriety checkpoints are highly visible and effective tools in the battle against impaired driving.

Tourism Major Economic Engine in Maury (Press Release)
Tourism has once again demonstrated its significant economic impact on the region, according to new data released recently by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. The second largest industry in the state continues a steady increase as the latest tourism data for 2023 reveals that visitors to Columbia and Maury County contributed a substantial $136.8 million in direct visitor spending to the local economy, representing a 7.96% increase over the previous year.

This impressive growth is a testament to the area’s thriving tourism industry, which continues to attract visitors from far and wide. Columbia’s diverse offerings, including the historic downtown district & Main Street, the arts district, historic sites, natural attractions, recreation, and vibrant cultural events, have made it a popular destination for travelers.
Visitor spending injects real money into the local economy, supporting small businesses while generating sales and lodging tax revenue. This economic impact is crucial for the overall health and prosperity of Columbia & Maury County. The local tourism industry supported 955 jobs in Columbia & Maury County during 2023, and generated approximately $13.9 million in state and local taxes. Additionally, visitor spending contributed approximately $34.3 million in labor income.
 
"I'm thrilled to see that our community's investment in tourism is paying off,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. The positive economic impact report highlights the significant contributions of visitors to our local businesses and economy. This data confirms that tourism is a crucial driver of growth and prosperity for our town."
Columbia & Maury County’s strong tourism performance has solidified its position among the top 20 counties as a leading destination in Tennessee. The county maintains its ranking at number 20 in visitor spending among all 95 Tennessee counties, demonstrating its continued success in attracting visitors and driving economic growth.
“Tourism is a vital industry for Columbia, providing jobs, generating tax revenue, and enhancing our quality of life,” said Kellye Murphy, Tourism Director for Visit Columbia. “The continued growth in visitor spending demonstrates the vibrancy of our local businesses and attractions as well as the dedication and effectiveness of our Visit Columbia marketing team to attract visitors and showcase our unique city.”

In looking at the broader economic impact of tourism across the state, Tennessee welcomed 144 million visitors in 2023 which generated an impressive $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending, supporting 191,522 jobs and generating $3.15 billion in state and local tax revenue.
 
The economic impact of visitor spending is a direct benefit to the citizens of Columbia & Maury County because it translates to approximately $352 in tax savings for every household in the county. And the positive impacts of visitor spending extend beyond economic benefits to include the thriving economy of local businesses, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the enrichment of the overall community experience.

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!
In conjunction with Fall Fest, the Kiwanis Club of Columbia is proud to present the Annual Kiwanis Chili Cookoff from 3-5PM on the square. This autumn tradition brings chefs from all over Maury County to decide whose chili reigns supreme. Tickets are $10 each at the event and children 10 and 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 artisan-craft vendors, eating from delicious food trucks, 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, news from around the state…
Convenant School to Build Anew (Tennessean)
The Covenant School, where a mass shooting left six people dead last year, is launching a capital campaign for a new campus when a three-year lease agreement ends for its longtime church location, school officials said Tuesday.
The private Christian elementary school in Nashville was the site of a March 27, 2023 shooting where three adults and three children were killed by a shooter armed with two assault-style rifles and a handgun.
Following the tragedy, the school last year moved to a temporary location at Brentwood Hills Church of Christ, where congregants welcomed 200 students and staff and scrambled to convert small Bible study rooms into classrooms.
The school in April returned to its original location at Covenant Presbyterian Church after a year of renovations and security upgrades. Covenant Presbyterian founded Covenant School in 2001 and has long been supported the school, through the two are separate organizations.
But the school will soon be looking for a new campus, Covenant Presbyterian and Covenant School said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
"After thorough discussions, it was determined that The Covenant School would return to its campus under a three-year rent-free lease agreement with continued financial support from the Church," the statement said. "Both the church and the school remain deeply committed to working together to ensure the school's future success. We are excited about the future of both the church and the school, and we will continue in our present relationship as the school launches a capital campaign to support a new campus."
Officials did not elaborate on why the school is relocating.
The past year has been a struggle for students, parents and staff as they work to heal from a shooting that claimed head of school Katherine Koonce, 59; custodian Mike Hill, 61; substitute teacher Cynthia Peak, 61; and 9-year-old third-graders Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney and Hallie Scruggs, the Covenant Presbyterian pastor’s daughter.
Police killed the shooter 14 minutes after the initial 911 call. The shooting sparked mass calls for stricter gun control laws and fierce debate and legal wrangling over the release of the shooter's writings.
A conservative news outlet this month released 90 pages of a journal it says belongs to the shooter.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Pilgrimage Festival takes place this weekend, September 28 – 29, at Harlindsale Farm, 239 Franklin Road in Franklin. The two-day not-to-miss music and art festival features at least ten hours of music each day, with headliners including Dave Matthews Band, Hozier, Needtobreathe, Charlie Worsham, and Noah Kahan.
There are a number of other great acts lined up to perform, including:
Wyatt Ellis, Trombone Shorty, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Illiterate Light, Grace Bowers, and many more.
Learn more at www.pilgrimagefestival.com