Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-6-24

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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 September 6, 2024

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
Ultium Workers Join UAW (WSMV)
About 1,000 workers at a General Motors joint venture electric vehicle battery plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee, will get big pay raises now that they have joined the United Auto Workers union.
GM and LG Energy Solution of Korea, which jointly run the plant, agreed to recognize the union after a majority of workers signed cards saying they wanted to join, the UAW said Wednesday.
Both sides will bargain over local contract provisions, but worker pay and other details will fall under the UAW national contract negotiated last fall, the union said in a prepared statement. Starting pay which was $20 per hour will rise to a minimum of $27.72. Over three years, minimum production worker pay will rise to $30.88, the contract says.
The joint venture, Ultium Cells LLC, said in a release that the union recognition came after an independently certified process that ended Tuesday. “We believe this will support the continuity of operations, drive innovation, and enhance world-class manufacturing,” the release said.
Representation of the battery plant gives the UAW another foothold in U.S. southern states as it tries to organize non-union auto plants. Workers at a 4,300-employee Volkswagen assembly plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, voted in April to join the union, and contract bargaining is expected to begin this month.
But the union lost its first organizing vote in May at a Mercedes assembly plant and other facilities near Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Spring Hill is the second GM joint venture battery plant to join the union and fall under the national contract. Workers at a plant near Warren, Ohio, voted to join the union in 2022.
Battery cell production began in Spring Hill earlier this year.

Columbia Dubbed Pet-Friendly (CDH)
The city of Columbia was recently certified as a pet-friendly city through Mars Petcare's Better Cities For Pets program.
“We are honored to be recognized as a Certified City by Mars Petcare, a testament to the commitment to being a more pet-friendly city," Mayor Chaz Molder said. "This award highlights Columbia's dedication to fostering a pet-friendly environment where both people and pets can thrive together. We remain committed to ensuring Columbia continues to be a place where all residents — two-legged and four-legged — can lead healthy, happy lives.”
The Better Cities For Pets program, which launched in 2019, is part of an initiative by Mars Petcare to help cities become more pet friendly. The program was developed in partnership with Civic Design Center, a leading entity in regard to designing inclusive public spaces, while incorporating feedback from government and animal welfare experts.
"With over 60 percent of households in the U.S. and Canada now including pets, Columbia is at the forefront of fostering a vibrant and inclusive community that supports the well-being of both pets and their owners, a press release states."
The program's goal is to encourage cities to recognize the benefits pets bring to communities while also providing guidance on pet-friendly policies and practices.
“It is very exciting for Maury County Animal Services to receive this recognition with the City of Columbia," Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt said. "The County has spent the last two years making our Animal Services more responsive to the needs of our community. I want to congratulate Director Kim Rafauff and her staff for achieving this recognition for Columbia. Working together we make Maury County a better place to live for all of us.”

First Watch to Open Soon (MauryCountySource)
First Watch, the popular breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant, will open in Columbia on Monday, September 16, 2024. The restaurant is located at 202 S. James M. Campbell Boulevard, the former O’Charley’s site.
They will bring a chef-inspired menu and rotating seasonal offerings to a 6,265 square-foot space that seats more than 150 people. The new spot will also offer a patio with umbrellas and an indoor bar.
To celebrate the opening, customers who dine in at the new Columbia South location Monday, September 16 through Friday, September 20 will receive free Project Sunrise coffee with their meal. First Watch’s menu takes an elevated approach to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch offerings. All dishes are made to order using fresh ingredients in a kitchen without heat lamps, microwaves or deep fryers. Fan favorites include Avocado Toast, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon. Five times a year, First Watch offers a revolving seasonal menu that follows the position of the sun to source fresh ingredients. The Columbia South restaurant will offer its first seasonal menu in Winter 2024.
The restaurant will employ approximately 30 people and operate on a one-shift a day, “No Night Shifts Ever” approach that enables its teams to enjoy their evenings and build a better quality of life. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply at careers.firstwatch.com.
First Watch is open 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily for pickup, delivery and dine-in service. To place an order or join a digital waitlist, visit firstwatch.com.

Columbia Central’s New Principal (MSM)
As the new school year begins, Columbia Central High School welcomes a new principal who hopes to kick off her tenure strong. Principal Shanda Sparrow-Lang has had a long career in education up to now, and she intends to draw from her experiences to lead Columbia Central.
When she was at college on a basketball scholarship, Sparrow-Lang wanted to practice sports medicine; her dream was to be a physical therapist for the then-ascendant Tennessee Titans. But after working in a hospital, she felt more desire to work with students than even with professional athletes.
She became a teacher in 2001 and served for about eight years, where she focused especially on special education and “struggling” students.
Sparrow-Lang started working in the schools of Marshall County, where she was made an administrator in 2008. Later she worked at Spring Hill Middle School as principal for 10 years, where she was named Maury County’s “Principal of the Year” in 2018-19 and 2023-24. She aims to bring that same excellence to Columbia Central.
Her secret? Learning from her superiors and servant leadership. She remembers having great administrators for mentors and taking notes on what worked for them as well as what didn’t. She also puts students first.
“A lot of people say that, but I ask them, ‘Do you really believe it?'” she said. “We are in customer service. I’m a servant leader. I work for [the students], they don’t work for me.”
Principal Sparrow-Lang’s goals for Columbia Central are to restore the academic performance of recent peak years and to build trust between administrators, teachers and students. She’s optimistic about both.
“We have some excellent teachers here,” she said, noting that there is still a need for teachers at the school. “We have a great central-office staff. Superintendent (Lisa) Ventura, she’s wonderful to work with. She is a visionary and a forward thinker, which I feel I am too.”
She admits that the school faces challenges, especially since her administration is the fourth in five years.
“They’ve seen a lot of turnover. That is hard for education… because of different leadership styles and different expectations,” she said.
The school has also been on the state ATSI list for two years, on account of a group there with persistently low test scores. Sparrow-Lang wants to return to the “stride” that the school was hitting by 2022, with the help of the specialist hired with state ATSI grant money.
Ultimately, Sparrow-Lang knows that she first has to win the hearts and minds of students and staff, which will take time. #RestoringTheRoar is her chosen hashtag, for returning to a good status quo and building up school spirit.
“I have six more years to retirement. I’m not saying that because I’m counting down the days,” she said. “I started in 2000 and I still have the passion, I still love students, I still feel that way. The day I stop feeling that way, I’m gone.”

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!”

Hazerdous Waste Pickup (MSM)
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) mobile household hazardous waste collection service will be in Maury County on Saturday, Sept. 7.
Tennesseans are encouraged to bring household hazardous waste – including cleaning fluids, pesticides, swimming pool chemicals and more – to a designated drop-off location. A person does not need to live in the county to participate.
The drop-off location in Maury County is the Maury County Solid Waste Department, 1233 Lawson White Dr., Columbia, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The contact is Victoria Grissom at [phone].
“We want it to be convenient for Tennesseans to recycle household hazardous waste, and this collection service is a great way to show that commitment,” said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. “We are pleased we can offer this service, and we encourage Tennesseans to participate.” 
Since the program’s inception in 1993, more than 373,000 Tennessee households have properly disposed of more than 24 million pounds of material. There have been over 1,500 one-day collection events.
Household hazardous waste materials are considered flammable, toxic, reactive and/or corrosive and should not be placed with regular garbage. Typical items to dispose of include cleaning fluids, pesticides, mercury thermometers and thermostats, fluorescent lamps, lithium and button batteries, aerosols, adhesives, medications, brake fluid, swimming pool chemicals, paint thinner and used needles in sturdy containers. Items not accepted include ammunition, explosives, alkaline batteries, paint, electronics, and any empty containers that should be disposed in normal trash. There is no cost or appointment necessary for household hazardous waste collection.
While household waste may be disposed for free, there is a cost for disposal of Very Small Quantity Generator Waste (i.e. wastes from non-household sources such as businesses, schools, farms, churches, etc.). An appointment is also necessary. Call [phone] to request a price quote and schedule an appointment.
Many counties and municipalities meet the needs of local residents by providing collection of batteries, oil, paint, antifreeze and electronic scrap. When handled correctly, these materials are minimally hazardous, but inappropriate for collection at household hazardous waste events. Tennesseans are encouraged to contact their local city or county solid waste department to find collection sites for those materials in their area.
When transporting materials to the site, place containers in sturdy boxes lined with newspaper or plastic to prevent spills and cross-contamination in the trunk of a car or back of a truck. Be sure to keep materials away from children and pets.
For more information on the household hazardous waste mobile collection service, please call [phone].

Mt. Pleasant Receives Art Grant (MSM)
The City of Mount Pleasant recently announced that it has been awarded an Arts Build Communities (ABC) Grant by the Tennessee Arts Commission for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
The intent of this grant money is to host a continuation of the acrylics painting course for Mount Pleasant-area senior citizens that started last fall. This course will build on the foundations learned in the last sessions and will develop artist skills.
“If you are a senior that did not attend the sessions last year, do not worry, you can still start new this year! We will be glad to have you!” city officials stated via social media.
If you know of a local senior citizen that would like to participate in this opportunity, help them sign up for this fun filled painting class taught by artist extraordinaire Susan Jones. Signups can be made online at www.mtpleasant-tn.gov/acrylics-painting-course or by visiting the Mount Pleasant Community Center to pick up a form.
“A huge THANK YOU to the TN Arts Commission. It is because of their continued support that we have the opportunity to provide such a great class to our community,” officials said.

Spring Hill Water Purification Pilot Approved (MauryCountySource)
On Tuesday, August 27, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation announced the approval of Spring Hill’s proposed Advanced Water Purification Pilot Project.
This project has been in the works for many years, first being put before the Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen on September 6, 2022. The overall Advanced Purification Project plan outlines how the City of Spring Hill can maximize its fair share of water from the Duck River through extensive treatment processes at an expanded Wastewater Treatment Plant and an accompanying reservoir.
Prior to the long-term structures being put in place, the City of Spring Hill must display the plan’s capabilities through a multi-year pilot project, as discussed with TDEC. With this latest approval, construction of the pilot project is expected to begin in 2025.
Similar projects have been completed throughout the country, especially in drier climates in the West, but this would be the first project of its kind in Tennessee.
“Spring Hill has been given the opportunity to set the standard for the State of Tennessee when it comes to water reuse projects,” said Spring Hill Mayor Jim Hagaman. “I am proud of our City leaders and staff who have put us in this esteemed position, and I am grateful we are moving forward with the infrastructure that Spring Hill residents need and deserve. Thank you to the leadership at TDEC and all those who played extremely important roles in this process.”
Further updates about the design and construction timelines will be released on the City of Spring Hill website and social media channels.

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 Farm Leadership Program (MauryCountySource)
It’s time for the Tennessee agriculture and forestry industries to develop new crops of leaders in their field.
The Naifeh Center for Effective Leadership, an agency of the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service (IPS), the UT Institute of Agriculture (UTIA), the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and other partner agencies have developed the Tennessee Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Program (TAFLP). TAFLP provides leadership and networking opportunities for farmers, foresters and the agriculture community.
“The farm community is the backbone of rural Tennessee. It’s exciting to bring our Naifeh Center’s expertise in executive and community leadership to support food, fiber and forestry producers in this personal growth experience. In turn, we expect the participants in the program, with the tools, skills and network it provides, to have a meaningful impact on rural vitality across the state,” said IPS Vice President Herb Byrd III. “The partnership and support of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Tennessee Farm Bureau, UTIA, Farm Credit MidAmerica, Tennessee Farmer’s Co-op and other commodity groups demonstrates a strong commitment to rural leadership.”
UTIA continues to educate undergraduate and graduate students in agriculture and forestry and looks to expand those efforts with this new partnership.
“By providing Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennessee and beyond through teaching, research and service, the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is invested in preparing Tennesseans to help lead the future of agriculture and forestry in our state,” said Keith Carver, senior vice chancellor and senior vice president of UTIA. “We are excited to join with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to support the Tennessee Agriculture and Forestry Leadership Program and its first cohort of participants.”
TAFLP is an 18-month program that includes travel across the state, an out-of-state industry trip and a visit to Washington, D.C. It connects cohort participants with others in the agriculture and forestry industry, and includes tours of farms, forests and businesses. Participants will attend leadership development sessions to enhance communication, leadership, critical thinking, entrepreneurial and strategic planning skills.
“Agriculture and forestry are the foundation of our state,” Commissioner of Agriculture Charlie Hatcher said. “We want to invest in the people who are passionate about learning and leading in these industries. This program is a significant step toward ensuring continued success for the farms and forests of Tennessee for generations to come.”
By improving communication skills, broadening understanding of major policy issues, especially issues facing agriculture and rural communities, and gaining an understanding of the effects of globalization on agriculture and rural communities, TAFLP graduates gain the self-awareness and confidence to be effective leaders.
“Tennessee Farm Bureau is thrilled to partner with agriculture industry partners to provide Tennessee farmers with a premier leadership training opportunity,” said Tennessee Farm Bureau President Eric Mayberry. “Our farmers here in Tennessee are exceptional in what they do on and off the farm, and our hope for this program is to further develop their leadership skills for their farm, family, community and beyond. This program is a long time coming and we are eager to see the great benefits it will yield for our farmers and agriculture in Tennessee.”
Those interested in participating can self-nominate or be nominated by someone else for the program. Ideal candidates are residents of Tennessee, actively involved in farming, ranching or a business closely related to agriculture or forestry including the food and fiber industries. They will be self-motivated and eager to take advantage of the learning opportunities provided by the program.
Similar programs are in existence in Kansas and Kentucky. The Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP) launched in 1985 and has graduated more than 300 individuals since that time.
Land loss is an issue across the U.S. and Tennessee is one of the states that has seen the most loss. In 2020, the American Farmland Trust ranked Tennessee as the fourth most threatened state for farmland conversions. According to Charlie Martinez with UTIA in 2017 86 percent of Tennessee was covered in ag and forestry land. From 1997 to 2017, Tennessee lost 1.1 million acres of ag and forestry land and from 2017 to 2022, the state lost another half a million acres. All of the partners involved with the TAFL program hope it is one step to help rejuvenate agriculture in the state.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Columbia's monthly First Fridays will once again hit the streets of downtown this weekend with vendors, live music and community.
As always, First Fridays events will run from 5-8 p.m.
This month's highlights will include a Merchant Marketplace and Fall Open House at Baxter's Mercantile, 808 S. Garden St., from 5-8 p.m. Baxter's will also host a tailgate party from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., which will feature food cooked on the grill and kids' door prize giveaway from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Packard Playhouse, 614 N. Main St., will host a First Friday Comedy Night starting at 7 p.m. featuring Paul Aldrich and Rik Roberts. Tickets range from $10-$30 and are available at www.PackardPlayhouse.com.
B's Salty & Sweet will also have a tent and table set up for customers to taste the business' quality baked goods at its new 510 N. Garden St. location. Quantities will be limited, and so be sure to stop by early to pick up items like fresh granola, cookies and breads.