Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-25-24

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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.

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for November 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…
Newly Elected City Councilman Resigns Seat (MSM)
One of Columbia’s newly elected City Council members has already made the decision to step down.
Andy Hart, who was elected to the Ward 5 seat in the Nov. 5 election, submitted a letter of resignation to City Manager Tony Massey on the morning of Nov. 18.
In the letter, Hart stated, “Due to family considerations, I will be unable to be sworn in and serve my term as 5th Ward City Council member. I am grateful to have had the city of Columbia believe in me enough to vote me in. However this is not a good season for me and my family at this time.”
City Recorder Thad Jablonski stated that the vacancy will be filled by appointment from the City Council members. When such an appointment might be made was not immediately known.

Sculptures Unveiled (Press Release)
The City of Columbia proudly unveiled two new sculptures in the heart of the Columbia Arts District, showcasing the creativity and talent of local artists Kevin Hale and Joseph Hazelwood. Held November 22, 2024 at 3:00 PM on South Garden Street, the event marked a significant addition to the city’s cultural landscape, drawing residents and city leaders together to celebrate this artistic milestone.
“Our Arts District has become a cornerstone of Columbia’s tourism appeal, drawing visitors and fueling our local economy,” said Tourism and Marketing Director Kellye Murphy. “In 2023 alone, visitors to Columbia and Maury County contributed $136,859,400 in direct visitor spending. By continuing to expand attractions and cultural offerings in areas like our Arts District, we can further boost this spending and attract even more visitors. Investments like these do more than beautify our community—they support local businesses, generate tax revenue, and make Columbia a top destination, driving sustainable growth in our tourism industry.”
The sculptures are installed atop newly constructed art pedestals, completed as part of the Arts District Streetscape Project. This streetscape transformation, part of the City’s investment in revitalizing public spaces, included wide sidewalks, designated street parking, a one-way traffic pattern, enhanced landscaping, modern lighting, comfortable benches, and five art pedestals positioned in key gathering areas. These pedestals now serve as showcases for Columbia’s vibrant arts community, offering visitors a place to gather, admire, and connect with the city’s creative spirit.
“These sculptures are more than just art; they represent the spirit and soul of our city,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “By showcasing the incredible talent of artists like Kevin Hale and Joseph Hazelwood, we’re not only enriching our Arts District but also fostering a community that values creativity, inclusivity, and shared experiences. The streetscape project is yet another way Columbia is becoming a destination for art, culture, and connection.”
The event began with remarks from city leaders, followed by the artists sharing insights into their inspirations and creative processes. The sculptures, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and thoughtfully integrated into Columbia’s history and aspirations, now stand proudly as symbols of community pride within the bustling Arts District.
City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the significance of public art in community engagement and urban development. "Public art brings people together, creating connections and sparking conversations," Massey stated. "The City of Columbia is proud to support local artists and provide platforms where their work can be shared and celebrated. This installation is a testament to our commitment to building a thriving cultural district that speaks to the creativity of our residents.”
The new sculptures mark an exciting chapter in the continued development of Columbia’s public spaces and underscore the city’s dedication to nurturing a flourishing cultural community.

MRMC Breaks Ground in Lawrence (Press Release)
 Maury Regional Health (MRH) held a groundbreaking ceremony in conjunction with the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Nov. 21, to celebrate construction on a new health park on Highway 43 in the Ethridge community north of Lawrenceburg.
 
The three-story 60,000-sq.-ft. facility across from the FedEx Distribution Center will be home to Maury Regional Medical Group physicians and providers, including primary care and specialties. Additional services will include imaging, physical therapy, pharmacy, occupational health and a sleep center. Several independent providers on the medical staff at MRH have also expressed interest in leasing space in the new facility, bringing even more specialty services to the health park.
 
“Maury Regional Health has long served southern Middle Tennessee through our facilities in Maury, Marshall, Lewis and Wayne counties,” said MRH CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “Our neighbors in Lawrence County have entrusted us with their care for decades, and we are committed to offering them more services, close to home.”
 
According to Chief Administrative Officer Charlie Brinkley, MRH purchased 14.8 acres in February 2024 with plans to utilize approximately 6.4 acres for the facility, leaving space for future growth.
 
“When we look at the health care needs of the region, the largest volume of patients we serve resides in Maury County followed by Lawrence County,” said Brinkley. “We look forward to expanding the services offered locally to residents in this growing community.”
 
Site preparation began in October and construction is expected to take approximately one year to complete, pending weather delays. MRH worked with MPA Developments on the launch of the project, with Davis-Stokes serving as the architect and Pellicano Construction leading the building process. The estimated construction cost is $24 million.
 
The Lawrence County health park is among several expansion projects underway or in the planning phases at MRH. Improvements at the main campus in Columbia include the development of an Orthopedic Surgical Institute to accommodate the growing number of joint replacements, renovation of the emergency department, expansion of the heart center, parking and thoroughfare improvements, additional childbirth beds and expansion of the front entry to relocate key patient and visitor services toward the main entrance.

Small Business Saturday (Press Release)
The City of Columbia invites residents to participate in Small Business Saturday® on November 30, 2024, and to continue supporting local businesses throughout the holiday season. Recognizing the vital role small businesses play in the community, Mayor Chaz Molder has officially proclaimed November 30th as Small Business Saturday in Columbia. Celebrated annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday was established in 2010 by American Express to encourage shoppers to support small, independently-owned businesses and help communities thrive. As an alternative to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which focus on big-box retailers and online shopping, Small Business Saturday shines a spotlight on the unique charm and economic importance of small businesses. Local businesses are essential to Columbia’s economy, hiring locally, reinvesting earnings back into the community, and offering distinctive goods and services. Shopping locally keeps tax dollars in Columbia, directly funding schools, public safety, infrastructure, and other vital services.
“Small Business Saturday is more than just a shopping day—it’s an opportunity to make a real difference in our community,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “By choosing to shop local, we help keep Columbia’s economy strong and ensure that the unique businesses we love continue to thrive. I encourage everyone to shop small and show their support for the heart of our city.”
The event encourages shoppers to explore Columbia’s downtown area and discover its diverse range of small businesses offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, delicious dining options, and exceptional services. The impact of shopping small is significant. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local community, creating an additional 48 cents in local business activity. Small businesses also represent 99.7% of firms with paid employees in the United States, employing nearly half of the private-sector workforce.
City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the economic importance of local businesses: “Local businesses provide jobs, invest in Columbia, and contribute to the community’s identity. Supporting them isn’t just good for business—it’s essential for our city’s growth and sustainability.”
As the holiday season kicks off, Columbia residents are encouraged to make Small Business Saturday a priority by visiting local shops, restaurants, and service providers. By shopping small, residents play a crucial role in ensuring the continued growth, prosperity, and unique charm of Columbia.
“Downtown Columbia offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience,” said Columbia Main Street Director Kelli Johnson. “From boutique stores to specialty shops, our small businesses have something for everyone. Shopping small keeps our downtown lively and strengthens the bonds that make our community special.”
Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 30, and join the movement to shop small and support Columbia’s vibrant small business community.
For more information about Small Business Saturday in Columbia, visit www.columbiatn.com.

Public School Achieve 92% Grad Rate (CDH)
Maury County Public Schools has reached a significant milestone, achieving a 92% graduation rate for the 2023-24 academic year, aligning with Tennessee's record-breaking state average.
The rate marks a steady increase from 86% in 2021-22 and 89% in 2022-23.
The milestone also coincides with the district's TCAP scores seeing improvements in areas of reading, math, and science over 2023 scores.
MCPS Superintendent Lisa Ventura said she is proud of the accomplishment.
"Maury County Public Schools is continuing to make gains in academics," Ventura said. "I am continually in awe of the dedication and determination of our principals, teachers, and staff. MCPS wants all students to be successful and wants to make a difference in our community. This is one tangible example of how we set and reach high expectations."
Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder also congratulated the school district.
"I am pleased to see the progress reported in the Maury Alliance public-education scorecard, and even more pleased to have heard district leadership in promoting the progress and successes, while also articulating a vision that will work towards improvements for the system as a whole."
This achievement reflects the dedication of MCPS educators, students, and families, contributing to Tennessee's overall graduation rate of 92.1% for 2023-24, as announced by the Tennessee Department of Education.

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!

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.

And now, news from around the state…

TSU Mapping Way to Success (Tennessean)
Tennessee State University leaders mapped out a plan Thursday to avoid a $46.1 million shortfall at the end of the current fiscal year.
The discussion, which grew tense at times between TSU board members and administrators, comes as the historically Black university said it’s struggling to make payroll. It also comes a few months after the school revealed years of financial mismanagement at the hands of previous leaders, and instituted layoffs, budget cuts and a freeze on nonessential spending and hiring.
While the plan only gets the university through the current fiscal year, which ends June 30, interim TSU President Ronald Johnson assured concerned board members that his team is working on plans for what comes next.
“This is a continuing effort that we’re going to be engaged in,” Johnson told the board.
Last week, state lawmakers grilled TSU leaders over an $800,000 contract with now-former President Glenda Glover, who retired in June. The conversation was the latest in years of scrutiny from the state over the university.
Earlier this year, the Tennessee legislature voted to fully vacate the previous board of the university. Gov. Bill Lee quickly appointed a new board, which took its seats in April. The new board halted a previous search for a new president and appointed Johnson for a one-year interim term, which began July 1.

BNA Preparing for Holiday Surge (NewsChannel5)
While BNA isn't expecting to break any records, they're still preparing to see a surge in Thanksgiving travelers on Sunday, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and December 1st.
BNA says several tips will help with both departures and arrivals so travelers don't miss their holiday plans.
Sign up for BNA Text Alerts. Click on BNA Text Alerts at the top of flynashville.com [flynashville.com] for valuable tips and updates, ensuring a seamless travel experience to BNA with the latest traffic information.
· Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to park, check in, and get to your gate.
Take alternate routes to BNA. With the increase of travelers during the holiday season, there will be more passengers arriving and departing from the airport. In addition to Exit 216A, consider alternate routes, such as 216B and Murfreesboro Pike during heavy travel periods.
· Allow extra time for parking. Heavier passenger volume means more people are parking and those areas will be busy. BNA has six parking options to choose from. If parking in valet, passengers coming from I-40 will only be able to access this area from Exit 216B. Check parking details and availability here [flynashville.com].  
 
· Utilize the new cell lot. To alleviate traffic congestion, drivers waiting to pick up their loved ones are encouraged to use BNA’s new cell lot located at 1415 Murfreesboro Pike. The new lot provides ample space and digital signage that displays real-time updates on incoming flights.  Please allow 20-30 minutes from landing time for your loved one to reach the curb. Click here [flynashville.com] for more information and helpful tips.   
· Check the status of your flight before arriving at BNA. We are advising passengers to check the status [flynashville.com] of their flight before coming to the airport.   
· Pack smart. Familiarize yourself with TSA's Top Travel Tips [tsa.gov] for a more efficient travel experience.  

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, will celebrate the return of A Holiday Tradition: Dickens of a Christmas on Saturday, December 14, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, December 15, from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. The weekend of holiday cheer recreates the time of Charles Dickens and takes place in the charming Downtown Franklin. This year’s event is presented in partnership with Wilson Bank & Trust.
“Dickens of a Christmas combines two of Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s passions, celebrating history and inviting the community to join us for a weekend in Downtown Franklin,” said Bari Beasley, President, and CEO of the Heritage Foundation. This will be the 39th year we host the event, and we are thankful for our partners, vendors, and artists who help make it happen each year.”
A variety of Dickens characters will fill the streets of Downtown Franklin including the nefarious Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the rest of the Cratchit family from A Christmas Carol; and Victorian Father and Mother Christmas. Throughout the weekend there will be live musical and dance performances, shopping, and more.
For more information on this year’s event, please visit The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s website: https://williamsonheritage.org/