WKOM/WKRM Radio
Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for January 21, 2025
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 Homicide (Fox17.com)
A welfare check in Spring Hill on Monday morning ended with the discovery of a murder victim.
Robertson County Sheriff's Office alerted Spring Hill Police about a worrisome phone call they received from a home on the 2000 block of Gale Lane. Once officers arrived to perform a welfare check, they entered the home and found a 30-year-old pregnant woman had been killed.
Vidol Wegner of Indiana, 29, was in a relationship with the woman and had also been the one to call the police.
Wegner was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony murder and taken to Maury County Jail.
Melton Steps Down from Spring Hill Chamber (CDH)
Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Rebecca Melton has announced her resignation from the position in a message issued Wednesday after serving in the role for eight years.
"This decision comes after eight years of working with the staff, Board and Ambassadors to provide optimum service and benefits to the membership while building our brand and reputation in the community," Melton wrote.
"My departure is not an easy decision because of the deep relationships formed over the years that I truly value. I took this position not knowing what it would bring personally and professionally but I knew that I wanted to make the membership proud to be a part of this organization.
Spring Hill Chamber of the Board Rodney Holliman described Melton's role over the years has been vital in shaping and leading the organization into what it is today.
"Becca's vision, dedication and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in our success, and her leadership will be deeply missed," Holliman said. "The board of directors is committed to finding a candidate who will uphold these high standards and help the organization thrive in the years to come."
Melton added that the organization was able to make "great strides" due to its willingness to take risks, and that she will continue to work with the Chamber Board, staff and volunteers to ensure a smooth transition in filling her position.
The Board has always given me encouragement and flexibility to make decisions based on what is best for all involved," Melton wrote.
"I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to grow professionally in this position. I am also a much better person because of the great people that have poured into me over the years. I will forever be grateful for my time with the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce."
The Chamber is currently seeking referrals for its next executive director at www.indeed.com.
Battle Creek Interim Principal Named (Press Release)
Maury County Public Schools is proud to announce the appointment of Laura Duncan as Interim Principal of Battle Creek Elementary School. Ms. Duncan, who most recently served as the district’s Elementary Coordinator, brings over 25 years of educational experience to this leadership role.
Laura Duncan's journey in education spans diverse roles, including Principal and Assistant Principal at Spencer Elementary School and Elementary Coordinator for Maury County Public Schools. She also held the position of Instructional Leadership Manager at the Tennessee Department of Education, where she worked to improve instructional practices statewide. Additionally, she was the inaugural Principal at Battle Creek Elementary, serving from its opening in 2019 until 2021. Her extensive experience has been recognized with accolades such as Van Buren County Principal of the Year and multiple grants for innovative teaching strategies.
Upon her appointment, Ms. Duncan stated, "I am honored to return to Battle Creek Elementary as Interim Principal and work with the amazing Cub Crew once again. I look forward to collaborating with the dedicated staff and families to ensure that every student has the tools and opportunities to succeed."
Ms. Duncan holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and both Master of Arts and Educational Specialist degrees in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University. Her professional expertise includes curriculum development, data-driven decision-making, and literacy initiatives, making her uniquely positioned to lead Battle Creek Elementary to continued success.
"We are thrilled to welcome Laura Duncan back to Battle Creek Elementary," said Superintendent Lisa Ventura. "Her leadership and dedication to education have made a lasting impact on students, staff, and the community. I am confident that she will continue to foster a positive and thriving environment at BCES."
City Council Postpones Short-Term Rental Debate (MSM)
The Columbia City Council voted to table all its proposed revisions to the city’s zoning ordinance and send them back to the Planning Commission, in order to give the new council members input on the laws they would be asked to pass. The drafted ordinance would have reduced the required distance between bars and residences, but instituted a new required distance from schools and parks; defined cannabinoid, vape and tobacco shops, and set their required distances; allowed short-term vacation rentals in most of the city with a simple permit or approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals, depending on the zoning of a property; and defined “major” and “minor” home businesses, and the permit system for those.
School Board member Sue Stephenson raised the discussion of short-term rental regulations, by asking the council to restrict them out of CD-2 (rural residential) and CD-3L (large-lot residential) zones. She pointed out that the IRS treats short-term rental properties as commercial real estate and state law treats them like hotels, and the covenants in CD-2 and CD-3L neighborhoods tend to ban them.
“In our neighborhood… you cannot [use] lots for any commercial purpose,” she said. “Short-term rentals are considered commercial activity if the property is subject to a restrictive covenant that prohibits commercial activity, and that’s exactly the situation we have here.”
Director of Development Services Paul Keltner told the council that state and IRS law would trump a local ordinance if the two were forced into conflict. He pointed out that towns and cities across the country have been regulating short-term rentals themselves, based on their needs and interests: some ban or restrict them to protect the residential housing supply, while others allow them to facilitate tourism and increase prosperity.
Columbia, Keltner said, landed on conditional approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals as a compromise between these concerns, which constituents had brought to the City Council meetings on the topic.
“If there is compelling evidence that says [one short-term rental] is going to [have] an adverse impact upon the neighbors… then you have a board that can vote on that,” he said.
Vice Mayor Randy McBroom moved to send the short-term rental rules back to the city Planning Commission, in order to assimilate new information and opinions that the City Council had received since the rules were drafted in the fall.
“My opinion [is], neighborhoods are for neighborhoods,” he said. “I’ve been talking to… constituents, some want it, some don’t. [And] we have new councilpeople on the board.”
To get more and better-informed input from the new councilors and city employees, he wanted to discuss the issue in Planning again – for a couple months if need be, given the gravity of the issue.
McBroom also thought that they should eliminate the requirement for Board of Zoning Appeals approval, saying that that Board shouldn’t be the bottleneck for short-term rental applications. Molder agreed, saying that a wrongly denied application could open the city to a lawsuit. As a “happy medium,” he floated the idea of banning short-term rentals in CD-2 and CD-3L and eliminating the Board of Zoning Appeals review requirement in the rest of the city. Ultimately, the Council sent the short-term rental legislation and the other zoning ordinance changes back to the Planning Commission.
Mid-State Classic Returns (Press Release)
- The Midstate Classic Collegiate Softball Tournament is set to return to Columbia for its tenth year on March 18, 2025. Hosted by the City of Columbia, this annual event will take place at the Ridley Sports Complex, one of the state’s premier recreational venues. The tournament is expected to attract fans from across the state, offering an exciting lineup of games.
This year’s tournament will feature three thrilling matchups. The action begins with a high school showdown as the Columbia Central Lions face the Spring Hill Raiders at 10:00 AM, followed by the Columbia State Community College Lady Chargers taking on the Calhoun Community College Warhawks at 1:30 PM. The day's highlight will be the NCAA clash between the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers and the Eastern Kentucky University Colonels at 5:30 PM. The University of Tennessee Lady Vols and Eastern Kentucky University Colonels are both coming off 40-win seasons last year. This marks the most impressive records the city has seen from teams participating in the Midstate Classic.
City Manager Tony Massey shared his enthusiasm for the event, noting, “The Midstate Classic has become a tradition in our community. UT and Columbia State have been a part of this event since 2014, and it’s wonderful to see the continued growth and excitement surrounding the tournament. It’s a great opportunity for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy high-quality collegiate softball right here in Columbia.”
The University of Tennessee Softball team, coached by Karen Weekly, is excited to return after the cancellation in 2024 due to weather conditions. Coach Weekly expressed her appreciation for the community’s support, stating, “We are thrilled to be back in Columbia for the Midstate Classic in 2025. The hospitality from the community and the support from Lady Vol fans make this event truly special. We’re looking forward to a great matchup with Eastern Kentucky, and we know it will be an exciting game. The City of Columbia does an outstanding job organizing this event, and it’s always a highlight of our season.”
The Midstate Classic continues to be a major draw for the community, not only because of the caliber of the teams but also for its role in fostering a strong sense of community pride. Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan emphasized the event’s significance, saying, “Once again, we’re thrilled to bring the best in softball to the City of Columbia, Tennessee. Powerhouse local teams and a top-tier NCAA game featuring the University of Tennessee will highlight the day. This full day of softball is sure to sell out quickly.”
Mayor Chaz Molder echoed this enthusiasm, saying, “We are incredibly proud to host the Midstate Classic for the tenth consecutive year. This tournament is not just about softball; it’s a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and local pride. The Ridley Sports Complex is the perfect venue for this event, and we can’t wait to welcome fans to Columbia for a full day of Division I collegiate competition.”
The Midstate Classic promises to be a day full of exciting softball and community spirit, making it an event that fans won’t want to miss. Gates will open at 7:30 AM the day of the event. General admission is $10, which grants access to all three games. Complimentary ADA transportation will be available before, during, and after the event to accommodate all guests. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit columbiatn.gov.
Maury Regional Heart Failure Support Group (MauryCountySource)
Maury Regional Health is launching a new monthly support group designed for individuals managing heart failure and their caregivers. This group aims to provide education, emotional support and practical tools to improve quality of life and reduce hospitalizations.
“Heart failure management goes beyond medical treatment — it’s about education, support and empowerment,” said Theresa Harris, RN, MSN, CCRN, ACCNS-AG, post-acute care network coordinator at Maury Regional Medical Center. “Our goal with this support group is to bring hope and a healthier lifestyle to individuals living with heart failure and their families.”
Launching in February of 2025 in recognition of Heart Month, the Heart Failure Support Group will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, February 25, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Maury Regional Annex at 1223 Trotwood Avenue in Columbia (located across from the hospital and in between McDonald’s and Dairy Queen). Ongoing meetings will take place on the last Tuesday of every month from 5 to 6 p.m.
The inaugural session will feature Darshini Patel, DO, a board-certified cardiologist at Vanderbilt Heart in Columbia, who will discuss “what is heart failure” from a provider perspective that emphasizes the need for follow-up appointments, medication adherence, maintaining a healthy weight and making healthy dietary choices.
“Managing heart failure involves more than just medication; it requires education, support and practical tools,” said Dr. Patel. “I’m honored to speak at the inaugural Heart Failure Support Group meeting to help patients and caregivers better understand heart failure and make informed choices for a healthier future.”
Monthly support group highlights:
Emotional and educational support for patients and caregivers
Guidance on living a healthy lifestyle
Tips for reducing stress
Strategies to improve quality of life
Guest speakers from the medical field
Advance registration is optional but encouraged. Registration can be completed online at MauryRegional.com/HeartFailureSupport or by calling 931.381.1111, ext. 2089.
As southern Middle Tennessee’s only Heart Center, Maury Regional Medical Center provides a vast array of cardiac services that include interventional procedures as well as pacemaker and defibrillator implants. Physicians are members of Vanderbilt Heart-Columbia and Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Columbia who are complemented by a highly skilled and experienced team that strives to achieve the best possible outcomes.
For more information, visit MauryRegional.com/Heart.
Day on the Hill (Press Release)
Join Williamson, Inc., Maury Alliance, and the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce for an afternoon of insights and advocacy with state lawmakers. Members from all three chambers will come together to hear directly from policymakers on key topics such as education, the state budget, transportation, and Governor Bill Lee’s school voucher proposal.
This is a unique opportunity to engage with legislators and stay informed on issues impacting your business and our community. After the initial portion concludes, our group will gather for a legislative reception, offering valuable opportunities to network and connect with lawmakers and fellow attendees.
Day on the Hill will take place on Tuesday, February 4th from 2-7pm. For more information, visit www.mauryalliance.com.
Columbia State Pryor Art Gallery Exhibit (Press Release)
Visit Columbia State Community College’s Pryor Art Gallery for their new exhibition, “Admiral Radio: Echoes of the Past,” supported in party by Columbia Antique Marketplace.
Step back in time and discover the fascinating history of radios, from the sleek Art Deco designs of the 1930s to today’s digital devices. This exhibition highlights how radios shaped communication, culture and technology across decades.
Explore iconic radios, vintage ads, and more—each piece tells a unique story of its era. Don’t miss this visual journey through sound, history, and innovation now through February 13!
Pryor Art Gallery hours:
Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This exhibit will coincide with the February 13 concert featuring Admiral Radio!
Inspired by their 1941 wooden Admiral radio, and an inspiration to Columbia State to design their Admiral Radio exhibition in the gallery, this South Carolina-based husband and wife duo creates an Americana sound rooted in tradition that touches the heartstrings of the modern-day listener.
The concert will take place at Cherry Theater in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus on Thurs., Feb. 13 @ 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 (includes all fees).
Learn more by visiting www.columbiastate.edu/pryor-gallery.
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…
Mary Aliene Fann, 89, retired elementary teacher for Nashville Metro Schools, and longtime resident of Nashville, died Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Morning Pointe Senior Living of Columbia.
Funeral services are incomplete, and will be announced later by Oakes & Nichols. The family suggest memorials may be made to Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Effort 410 Allied Dr, Nashville, TN 37211. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.
And now, news from around the state…
Fewer Guns Stolen in TN (WPLN)
For the first time in several years, fewer guns were stolen from cars in Nashville in 2024 by comparison to 2023.
Guns being stolen from cars been a persistent problem since 2013, when the state legislature passed a law that allowed guns to be carried in cars like an extension of someone’s home.
National data shows that guns being stolen from cars is more prevalent in Tennessee’s cities, like Memphis, Chattanooga and Nashville, than in other parts of the country.
The Metro Nashville Police Department reported that 928 guns were stolen from cars in 2024 – more than 281 fewer firearms than in 2023. It’s the lowest number the city has recorded since 2019.
MNPD says a new initiative that began in February 2024 resulted in more than 1,000 arrests and the recoveries of more than 500 stolen vehicles and more than 200 guns.
Democrats in the Tennessee state legislature have repeatedly tried to pass legislation to combat stolen guns, including safe storage bills. But those bills have failed when brought to the Republican supermajority.
Vandy Fined After Win (Fox17.com)
Vanderbilt University is facing a hefty fine after fans storm the court in Nashville on Saturday.
The Southeastern Conference announced the fine on Sunday, which will be $250,000.
Spectators stormed the court after the men's Vanderbilt basketball team beat No. 6 ranked Tennessee 76-75. The act is a violation of the league’s access to competition area policy.
This is the university's second violation of the policy. The first came on October 5, 2024, when its fans entered the football field following a game against Alabama in Nashville.
National News
Trump Sworn In (Tennessean)
Donald Trump was sworn in Monday as the 47th president of the United States, returning to the White House after overcoming four criminal indictments and two assassination attempts in one of the most remarkable political comebacks in U.S. history.
Trump recited the oath of office shortly after noon ET at an intimate inauguration ceremony inside the Capitol rotunda. The ceremony was moved indoors because of below-freezing temperatures in the nation's capital.
Trump, 78, raised his right hand and took the oath of office using a Bible his mother gave him in 1955 that was stacked on a second Bible used by President Abraham Lincoln for his swearing-in in 1861. JD Vance was sworn in as vice president right before Trump.
"The golden age of America begins right now," Trump said in a roughly 30-minute inaugural address. "From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world. We will be the envy of every nation, and we will not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of any longer during every single day of the Trump administration."
Trump arrived at the Capitol to applause and chants of "USA! USA! USA!" He replaces Joe Biden, who sat behind Trump as the new president railed against the "radical and corrupt" government he is inheriting.
Trump is just the second former president to return to office after losing an election, joining Grover Cleveland, who returned to the White House for his second term in 1893. Trump is the first impeached president to return to office, first convicted felon to serve as president and the oldest president on Inauguration Day.
Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
The Nashville Sounds are excited to announce that Sound Check Fan Fest will return on Saturday, February 1, from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Tailgate HQ. This free event will get fans excited for the 2025 season and features meet and greet opportunities with Sounds players, alumni, and coaches. It will also provide fans with the first look at exclusive promotional items coming to First Horizon Park in 2025.
In addition to appearances, fans can participate in a silent auction for other signed memorabilia, experiences at the ballpark this summer, as well as enter other Sounds prizes and merchandise throughout the event. Sounds employees will be available to assist with single-game tickets and club membership questions.
Fans can RSVP for the event at www. milb.com/Nashville.
It’s deeply saddening to read about such tragic incidents, reminding us of the critical need for safety and support in our communities. Stories like these highlight the importance of staying informed through reliable news sources, especially when they’re curated responsibly and cite original sources. While reading about such cases, many of us turn to legal research to understand justice better. For students exploring legal studies or professionals navigating complex cases, you might even need to pay for law essay assistance to grasp intricate legal concepts.