Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-20-24

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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.

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for November 20, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
Spring Hill Commerce Center (CDH)
Steps were taken to modify what's estimated to be one of Spring Hill's largest projects over the next 10 years as part of the proposed Spring Hill Commerce Center business park.
The project, which encompasses more than 700 acres off Duplex and Jim Warren Roads, was most recently discussed last week by the city's planning commission, which approved unanimously a zoning recommendation for an airport district within the business park.
The proposed modifications also include allowances for electric vehicle charging stations.
The project was brought before the BOMA on Monday, first with two voting items pertaining to cooperative and development agreements between the city and its Industrial Development Board. Both items passed unanimously without any discussion.
"They are adding new standards, new uses permitted within the business park itself," Spring Hill Development Director Dara Sanders said.
"It also includes some modifications to their approved landscape schedule that would encourage, or direct future landscaping associated with private developments to species that are drought tolerant, which is a direction the city itself is looking to go into, as well as our water providers."
The BOMA's work session portion of the meeting included four discussion items related to the project, including the proposed modifications, as well as an annexation request for two properties currently residing in Williamson County.
Sanders said the annexation would not create an increased demand on water and sewer capacity and therefore recommends approval per city staff. The annexation was previously approved by the planning commission, she added, and is now being reintroduced following the city's recent updates to its urban growth boundary.
"That expanded urban growth boundary was certified last week," Sanders said. "These properties are included in that expanded urban growth boundary, and the planning commission had recommended unanimous approval of the annexation."
Another amendment request to the development agreement would include additional obligations to the project for future development applications.
This included a list of six items, such as prioritizing funding for the construction of a bridge over I-65 at Jim Warren Road.
"By carrying over this provision, staff is reading it as essentially identifying the Jim Warren bridge as the most important capital improvement project for the city of Spring Hill over the next 10 years," Sanders said.
Another provision was related to fees pertaining to development construction inspections, including adequate facilities and traffic impact fees. The request would, essentially, secure any applicant within the project to the city's fee schedule over the next six years.
The city's procedure in approving traffic impact studies was discussed, and whether Spring Hill Commerce Center infrastructure plans would need to be modified.
Typically, a traffic impact study would be submitted and reviewed by the planning commission in regard to anticipated future uses. However, the size and scope of this project would likely need to have more of a piece-by-piece approach, Sanders said.
"In this case, staff and the planning commission felt a limited analysis would be more appropriate, and a more detailed analysis at the time of site plan application," Sanders said.
"So as each parcel within the business park comes online, we would evaluate the traffic impact or incorporate street improvements that work to advance traffic safety and mitigate traffic congestion."
Alderman Matt Fitterer likened the project to the city's June Lake development, as it is similar in scope.
"I'm okay with individual site parcels and traffic impact studies being limited in scope to where it makes sense," Fitterer said. "It's the ones eight, nine, ten years down the road that are a little bit more unpredictable."
No votes were taken on Monday's work session discussion items, but each will appear as part of a future BOMA meeting agenda.

City Receives $300,000 Grant (Press Release)
The City of Columbia has been awarded a $300,000 Downtown Improvement Grant from the State of Tennessee's Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD).

This funding is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing downtown areas across the state, with a focus on improving building facades and outdoor public spaces.

City of Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder said, “We are excited and grateful for the opportunity to improve our downtown area, which serves as the heart of Columbia. This grant will help us continue to make Columbia a place where people want to live, work, and visit, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community's economy and quality of life. I am particularly proud of the improvements coming to East 6th and East 7th Streets, including sidewalk and paving enhancements. With these updates, we’ve essentially created a similar streetscape on the east side of the courthouse to what we’ve seen on the west side, further unifying and revitalizing our downtown area.”

The grant, funded through TNECD’s Rural Economic Opportunity program, will assist in upgrading building facades, wayfinding signage, streetscapes, and gateways. As part of the program, the City of Columbia will be required to match 25% of the awarded funds.

City Manager Tony Massey shared his enthusiasm for the growth this grant will help foster: "This grant is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to enhance the downtown district. The improvements we will make with these funds will not only beautify the area but also support local businesses and attract more visitors to Columbia."

Assistant City Manager Thad Jablonski highlighted the long-term benefits: "Investing in downtown Columbia is investing in our future. These improvements will have a lasting economic impact, driving job creation and further establishing Columbia as a regional destination."

This grant represents an important step forward in the city’s vision to continue to revitalize downtown Columbia, enhancing its appeal as a thriving hub for commerce, tourism, and community activity. The City of Columbia looks forward to the continued growth and positive change this investment will bring to the area.

Mt. Pleasant Tree Lighting (Press Release)
Mount Pleasant Main Street invites everyone to kick off the holiday season at the annual “Very Pleasant Christmas” Tree Lighting on Friday, November 30th in Downtown Mount Pleasant. This festive, family-friendly event will feature holiday activities, food trucks, a kid zone, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus himself.
The evening begins at 4:00 PM, welcoming guests of all ages to come together and celebrate. The Kid Zone, generously sponsored by the Maury County Visitors Bureau, will offer activities and surprises designed to enchant children and spread holiday cheer. Attendees can also enjoy a wide variety of delicious options in the Food Truck Zone, sponsored by TriStar Bank, where local vendors will serve up everything from seasonal treats to savory bites.
Highlighting the evening will be the grand lighting of Mount Pleasant’s community Christmas tree, set to take place at 6:00 PM. This annual tradition brings neighbors and friends together under the glow of the lights, creating a magical setting for the holiday season.
“Mount Pleasant’s tree lighting is more than just an event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the joy and spirit of Christmas,” said Haverly Pennington, Director of Mt. Pleasant Main Street. “We’re thrilled to welcome everyone, especially our youngest guests who can visit Santa and join in the holiday fun.”
Admission to the event is free thanks to event sponsors Main Street Mount Pleasant, Hoover Mason Recycling, Timco, The City of Mount Pleasant, Mount Pleasant Power Company, and Heritage Bank & Trust. All are welcome to attend. Families, friends, and visitors are encouraged to come early to enjoy the activities and join in the spirit of the season.
For more information, go to www.visitmountpleasanttn.com
Join us as we celebrate a Very Pleasant Christmas and the beginning of a joyful holiday season in Mount Pleasant!

City of Columbia Sculpture Unveiling (Press Release)
The City of Columbia is excited to announce the unveiling of two new sculptures in the heart of the Columbia Arts District. This special event will showcase the talents of local artists Kevin Hale and Joseph Hazelwood. The unveiling will take place on Friday, November 22, at 3:00 PM in the Columbia Arts District. The event will begin with a brief ceremony and an introduction of the artists, followed by the unveiling of all three sculptures. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these additions to the landscape of our local Arts District.
When: Friday, November 22, 2024 @ 3:00 PM
Where: Columbia Arts District (Corner of S Garden and 11th) Columbia, TN 38401

Athenaeum Gets State Grant (MSM)
State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, and State Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown, last week announced that the Maury County Chapter of the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities (APTA) will receive $15,400 in state grant funding for maintenance and improvement projects at the Athenaeum in Columbia.
The funding is part of a $5 million budget appropriation approved by the Tennessee General Assembly earlier this year and administered by the Tennessee State Museum.
“The Athenaeum is an incredible asset to our community that offers valuable opportunities for visitors to learn more about Maury County and its history,” Cepicky and Capley said in a joint statement. “We were proud to support this investment to ensure this remarkable place is preserved and accessible for generations to come.”
A total of 83 Capital Maintenance and Improvement grants were awarded to museums in 46 counties across the state following a highly competitive application process.

Local Holiday Shopping Guide (Press Release)
The holiday season just got a whole lot brighter!  For the very first time, Maury Alliance is excited to present the Local First Holiday Guide — a one-of-a-kind guide to holiday shopping, dining, and celebrating in Maury County, exclusively featuring Local First participants!

This isn’t just another holiday shopping list—it’s YOUR ticket to making a real impact on our community by supporting the incredible small businesses that make Maury County unique. From beautiful gifts to remarkable experiences, the Local First Holiday Guide has everything you need to make this season special and give back to the place we all love.

 What’s Inside the Local First Holiday Guide:
For Her – Discover the best local gifts for the women in your life
For Him – Find the perfect presents for the men in your life with unique gifts from Maury County’s finest shops.
For Kids – Shop local toys, books, and activities that will light up the faces of your little ones this holiday season.
Plan an Experience – Looking for a memorable gift? Plan a local experience, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Where to Eat – Explore Maury County’s best local eateries
Where to Relax – Treat yourself or someone special to a moment of relaxation with local spas and relaxation experiences.
Holiday Hours – Don’t miss out! Check out the holiday hours for all your favorite local businesses so you can plan your shopping accordingly.

 How You Can Be a Part of This Exciting First Year:
Download the Guide today and start your local holiday shopping!
Share the Guide with your family and friends and spread the word about this incredible initiative.

Download the guide by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.

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.

Christmas Festivities (CDH)
One of Columbia's biggest events will bring twice the holiday cheer this year as Columbia Main Street announced its two-day plans for this year's Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting.
The annual yuletide gathering will take place over two nights during the first weekend of December, with the tree lighting kicking off the season during the Dec. 6 First Fridays and the parade occurring the following day on Dec. 7.
"This is a special, holiday-themed First Fridays blended with the Tree Lighting ceremony hosted by Santa and Mrs. Claus," Columbia Main Street stated in a press release. "Experience the fun of First Fridays with a holiday twist that includes festive music from DJ Rio, local craft vendors, food trucks, and other holiday-inspired, family-friendly activities throughout the evening."
This year's parade route will once again march along West 7th Street, making its way downtown amongst the square's many shops as spectators watch the parade consisting of dozens of decorated floats, lights, marching bands and more, all representing businesses, schools and local organizations.
"More than bright lights and festive floats, these events are the spark of holiday magic that ignites community spirit and creates beloved memories that will last a lifetime,” Kelli Johnson, Columbia Main Street Manager, said. “We encourage residents and visitors to attend both nights so they can fully immerse themselves in our unique holiday experience in the heart of beautiful downtown Columbia.”
As always, both events are free to attend and open to the public. For more information, contact Columbia Main Street at [phone] or visit www.VisitColumbiaTN.com.
 
Tennessee Reconnect (Press Release)
Columbia State Community College will host virtual Tennessee Reconnect information sessions during the month of November.
Tennessee Reconnect is a last-dollar scholarship that provides free tuition for adults to attend a community college. The initiative is designed to help adults enter college to gain new skills, advance in the workplace and fulfill lifelong dreams of completing a degree or credential.
“Tennessee Reconnect provides a wonderful opportunity for eligible adult learners to attend Columbia State tuition-free,” said Joni Allison, Columbia State coordinator of Adult Student Services. “We offer multiple information session dates each month to allow easy access for prospective students who would like to begin or return to college.”
To be eligible for Tennessee Reconnect, students must meet the following requirements:
Haven’t earned an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Have been a Tennessee resident for at least one year.
Complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid and be determined as an independent student.
Be admitted to Columbia State and enroll in a degree or certificate program.
Must attend at least part-time (6 credit hours).
To view the full list of steps to apply, or to sign up for an information session, please visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Reconnect.

And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…
William Eugene “Bo” Bohannon, 87, resident of Spring Hill, died Friday, November 15, 2024 at his residence.
Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 7:00 PM at Spring Hill Memorial Funeral Home. The family will visit with friends on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 4:00 PM until the service time. Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Bobby Allen Dial Sr., 86, retired bus driver for Shockey Tours out of Louisville, Kentucky and a resident of Smyrna, died Monday, November 18, 2024 at the Golden Swan retirement community in Smyrna.
Funeral services will be conducted Friday, November 22, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow at McCains Cemetery with military honors provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends Friday, November 22, 2024 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. 

And now, news from around the state…

Spirit Airlines Files Chapter 11 (Tennessean)
Another company has filed for bankruptcy and this one hits the budget travelers.
Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday with the budget airlines citing continuing rising losses, failed mergers and impending debt maturities. The airline called the bankruptcy filing "prearranged" as part of its restructuring support agreement. This agreement with its bondholders is expected to reduce total debt and provide increased financial flexibility.
But many Tennessee fliers won't have to worry about losing their flights or frequent flier miles just yet.
Most Spirit travelers won't have to worry about cancellations just yet.
The carrier expects to continue its flight operations through the bankruptcy proceedings and customers can continue to book and fly without interruption.
"In the short term, it will be just smaller," Robert W. Mann Jr., a former airline executive officer and current president of R. W. Mann and Co., an independent airline consultancy, told USA TODAY. "If you’ve already gotten notice of your flight canceled or had to be rebooked, you’ve already gotten that notice."
According to Mann, it's doubtful that Spirit customers' Thanksgiving travel will be impacted, but it is possible that there could be schedule changes and cancellations as we head into winter.
The company has not announced any mass cancellations but did reach out to customers in an email about the "prearranged" bankruptcy, stating that people can still use their tickets and buy tickets from the airline.
If you do have an existing Spirit reservation, you should look out for notifications about any changes to the itinerary from Spirit as the departure date approaches.
"Their best notice is going to be the notice they get from the carrier like time changes or rebooking or inability to rebook, cancellations," Mann said.
The budget airline points to multiple factors in the choice to file for bankruptcy, with one being the collapse of its $3.8 billion planned merger with JetBlue Airways in January and the impact of RTX's, Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan engines snag that grounded many of its aircraft.
Spirit Airlines listed its estimated assets and liabilities in the range of $1 billion to $10 billion each, according to a court filing on Monday.

Gas Prices (MSM)
Gas prices across the state moved lower last week, falling six cents, on average. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.69 which is 12 cents less expensive than one month ago and 25 cents less than one year ago.  
“Gas prices are moving lower across the state, which is great news for those that are planning road trips over the Thanksgiving holiday,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “It’s likely Tennesseans will see the cheapest Thanksgiving gas prices since 2020.”
Tennessee is seventh least-expensive state in nation for gas prices

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Nashville International Airport® (BNA®) and its partner airline, Frontier Airlines, are excited to offer a new nonstop route to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Beginning March 7, 2025, travelers can fly to the Magic City three times a week.
“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Frontier Airlines and offer this exciting new route to Orlando,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of Nashville International Airport. “This new service demonstrates our commitment to providing our passengers with more choices and convenient travel options. Orlando is a world-class destination, and we’re proud to connect our community to all it has to offer.”
With this new connection, Nashville residents can easily escape to the world-famous theme parks, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife of Orlando.
For more information or to book your trip, please visit https://www.flyfrontier.com/