top of page
Search

Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 1-27-25

Writer's picture: Tom PriceTom Price

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for January 27, 2025


All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.

We start with local news…

Murder Update (WilliamsonScene)

A Murfreesboro man has been charged in the killing of his pregnant girlfriend in Spring Hill.

According to a Spring Hill Police Department news release, on Monday, Jan. 20, 29-year-old Vidol Wegner strangled the victim who is identified in court records as 30-year-old Ariel Nevills.

“At 6 a.m., the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office asked SHPD officers to check the welfare of residents at a house in the 2000 block of Gale Lane because of a phone call their dispatch center received,” the SHPD news release reads. “Officers went to the house and located a 30-year-old woman who had sustained fatal wounds.”

According to a warrant filed in a Maury County Court, Vidol “did admit to murdering his girlfriend,” and “stated that he strangled Nevills two different ways,” waiting until she was dead before leaving the Spring Hill home. Nevills was seven-months pregnant with their child.

SHPD detectives traveled to Robertson County and arrested Wegner, who was initially identified by police as an Indiana man but who has a Murfreesboro address.

Wegner was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony murder. He was booked in the Maury County Jail and held on no bond.


Judicial Center Parking Woes Continue (CDH)

The brand new Maury County Judicial Center's early growing pains continue to muddle the county's ability to provide adequate parking, causing officials to question whether the $46 million structure was planned accordingly.

The Maury County Judicial Center currently provides approximately 70 parking spaces for daily use, not including reserved or handicapped spaces. However, it was later determined that the actual need is around 100.

The Maury County Commission, along with various other county boards and committees, has for months discussed a possible purchase of the adjacent Melody's One Stop Shoppe bookstore, 1113 S. Main St.

The full commission Tuesday considered a resolution to make an offer of $600,000 to purchase the property initially proposed at nearly $1 million when it was first considered in 2024.

The resolution was ultimately denied after a lengthy, at times heated, discussion about whether the purchase would be the best solution, or if other options should be explored, as well as how the county found itself in such a predicament.

One issue addressed regarding the potential bookstore purchase has been its frequency in discussions among the commission's various boards and committees.

There has also been backlash from the public, many of whom do not support the purchase.

"It started with the previous commission buying a piece of property that wasn't big enough for this building in the first place, and you spent more money than it was originally supposed to be," Karen Parkhurst of Columbia said during the Jan. 21 meeting. "This money can be better spent on our law enforcement, the fire department or the concerns about water in this area."

Columbia City Councilman Charlie Huffman, Ward 2, who spoke during public comments, added that courthouses in similar counties are often located in more rural areas, rather than a few blocks from downtown.

"There was not a lot of thought put into this," Huffman said. "The city told the county that it met specifications, but there was not going to be enough parking down there. None of you all listened, and now you are in this dilemma."

While the Jan. 21 vote pertained to the 1113 S. Main St. property, other possible alternatives were also discussed.

MCPS Assistant Superintendent Eric Perryman presented a 4.6-acre parcel located off South Glade and Woodland Streets, the site of the former Andrews School and currently known as Maury County Teachers Center. However, the property could present a number of issues, such as its current use.

First, the foundation of the former school, torn down in 1988, still exists. The property is also currently being utilized by MCPS staff and other businesses.

"We do have 48 employees that work off of that site, and if we moved those employees, we would have 27,000 square feet of building we would have to replace," Perryman said. "The two other buildings are a fully functioning cabinet shop and a fully functioning metal shop with welding stations within it."

There could also be potential historical roadblocks given the property's age.

"There is a rock wall that was erected in 1850 ... and it is a wall that was probably built by slave labor at some point in that time," Perryman said.

Prior to the final vote, Commissioner Scott Sumners District 5, proposed that the county fund an appraisal conducted by a third party to determine the bookstore's true value.

That proposal for an appraisal, which would have required a two-thirds vote, ultimately failed.

"I don't know how many people have to tell us, 'No,' before we figure out that's what your constituents want," Kathey Grodi, District 6, said.

Commissioner Aaron Miller, District 7, agreed.

"I think we are throwing good money after bad ... and to drag this out any further and to suggest that we spend any more money on this issue, quite frankly, is insulting to our constituents and our community," Miller said. "This thing is dead, and so let's bury it."

The final vote to negotiate $600,000 to purchase the bookstore showed one in favor, 18 opposing and one abstained.


Ogles Proposes Constitutional Amendment (CDH)

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Columbia, is proposing to change the 22nd Amendment to allow President Donald Trump to serve a third term in the White House. 

“President Trump’s decisive leadership stands in stark contrast to the chaos, suffering, and economic decline Americans have endured over the past four years," Ogles said in a statement Thursday. "He has proven himself to be the only figure in modern history capable of reversing our nation’s decay and restoring America to greatness, and he must be given the time necessary to accomplish that goal."

Ogles, an outspoken supporter of Trump, said the change is “imperative” to “provide President Trump with every resource necessary to correct the disastrous course set by the Biden administration,” which he says “subjected Americans to relentless abuses that will take a decade to correct.”

“This amendment would allow President Trump to serve three terms, ensuring that we can sustain the bold leadership our nation so desperately needs,” Ogles said.

As a constitutional amendment, Ogles' proposed change would give any future elected Democratic president the same three-term advantage. But a change like that would be nearly impossible in today's political climate. Two-thirds of the House and Senate would need to adopt a Constitutional amendment, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures.

Ogles has already made his second term priority of backing Trump's agenda clear, signing on to co-sponsor legislation to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America,” and introducing another bill to authorize the president to enter negotiations with the Kingdom of Denmark to acquire Greenland as a U.S. territory.

“It might sound crazy, and one might ask why would you want Greenland?” Ogles said in a recent streaming interview. “But if you look at the activities of China and Russia in the Arctic Circle, they are literally operating on our doorstep. Not to mention, Greenland is rich with resources, and China has been making a play for those resources. So we have an obligation to the American people… to secure that territory.”


City of Columbia Receives Grant (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a $50,000Healthy Built Environments (HBE) grant from the Tennessee Department of Health, in partnership with the South Central Tennessee Development District. This grant will fund the development of an East Columbia Small Area Plan aimed at improving community health and connectivity in the East Columbia neighborhood.


The Healthy Built Environments (HBE) Grant, supported by the Tennessee Department of Health’s Office of Primary Prevention, helps communities design healthier living spaces. By improving areas where people live, work, and play, HBE grants aim to reduce health risks, improve quality of life, and strengthen local economies.


The funding provided for the planning phase of this project will help create a comprehensive strategy to improve these aspects of the East Columbia community. Future steps toward implementing these improvements will depend on the availability of additional funding.

As part of this initiative, the City of Columbia is seeking input from local residents to help shape the plan. The public's feedback will play a critical role in guiding potential projects that focus on walkability, public spaces, and overall community connections.


To kick off the planning process, the City will host an open house-style forum for residents to share their thoughts and ideas. This event will be the first step in assisting with the future implementation of the East Columbia Small Area Plan, which will outline specific projects to improve health, accessibility, and overall quality of life in the community.


Event Details:

• East Columbia Small Area Plan – Healthy Built Environment Public Forum

• Date: Tuesday, January 28, 2025

• Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

• Location: Dr. Christa S. Martin Community Center, Fairview Park

• 871 Iron Bridge Road, Columbia, TN


The forum provides an opportunity for residents to engage directly with city planners and share their ideas for enhancing the community. Feedback collected will be instrumental in shaping the direction of the master plan.


Complimentary snacks and drinks will be provided.



Black History Expo (Press Release)

In celebration of Black History Month, Maury Regional Health is proud to announce its 3rd annual Black History Expo vendor fair. This event will take place on Wednesday, February 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Maury Regional Medical Center in the Auxiliary Conference Room. This event is open to the public.  

This special event is an opportunity to celebrate and support the achievements of Black entrepreneurs in our community. The fair will showcase an array of vendors offering products and services, including food, jewelry, clothing, custom merchandise and more.

“We are excited to bring together Black-owned businesses to celebrate their contributions and share their talents with the community,” said Dennis Fisher, chief human resources officer at Maury Regional Health. “This is an opportunity to foster connections in our community and celebrate the talents of our entrepreneurs.”

Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate in this event. For more information about attending or being a vendor, please reach out to kbrady@mauryregional.com or call 931.381.1111, ext. 1026.


Kids Place Gala (Press Release)

You are cordially invited to step into an evening of mystery, elegance, and purpose at the 6th Annual Kid’s Place Gala on January 31, 2025. This year’s event, “Beyond the Mask”, will take place at the exquisite Keestone Resort in Loretto, Tennessee, setting the perfect stage for a dazzling Masquerade Ball. 


Behind the masks, abuse happens silently in our own communities; the children and families Kid’s Place serves are your neighbors, employees, family, and friends. Attendees will unite to illuminate a critical cause: the fight against child abuse. Together, we can ensure children and families in our community receive the hope, help, and healing they deserve. 


All proceeds from the gala will support the vital work of the four Kid’s Place centers serving Giles, Lawrence, Maury, and Wayne counties. Last year alone, Kids Place served more than 600 victims of child sexual abuse and severe physical abuse at no cost to the families, thanks to generous supporters like you. 

As the largest fundraising and awareness event, the gala’s success depends on the support of compassionate individuals like yourself. Whether by attending, donating, or sponsoring, your involvement helps sustain the critical services we provide. 


Kid’s Place works together with law enforcement, prosecution, mental health resources, and the community to combat the ever-growing epidemic. They cannot do this work alone; their biggest resource is YOU! 



Sobriety Checkpoint (Press Release)

In compliance with a Tennessee Supreme Court ruling for all law enforcement to notify the public of when and where a roadblock will be held, the Tennessee Highway Patrol is advising all motorists of the following upcoming checkpoints. The courts require proof roadblocks are conducted in the best interest of overall public safety and THP’s checkpoint times and locations are strategically selected through crash and crime data collection to maximize their overall effectiveness and efficiency.


Driver License Checkpoints:

Recognizing the danger presented to the public by unqualified drivers, Troopers will concentrate their efforts on vehicles being operated by drivers who violate the driver license laws of Tennessee and take corrective actions for other violations observed.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol has found these driver license roadside safety checkpoints to be an effective means of enforcing driver license laws of Tennessee while ensuring the protection of all motorists.


Sobriety Checkpoints:


February 28, 2025, at 10 pm on State Route 50 East .2 miles east of the 19 mile marker in Maury County.


Troopers will evaluate drivers for signs of alcohol or drug impairment 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 an effective tool in the battle against impaired driving.

Safety Belt Checkpoints:

Recognizing the danger presented to unbelted vehicle occupants, Troopers will target those who operate a vehicle while unbelted and take corrective actions for other violations observed. The Tennessee Highway Patrol recognizes that safety belt checkpoints are highly visible and effective tools of enforcing the safety belt laws of Tennessee while ensuring the protection of vehicle occupants.



Knights of Columbus to Honor LEOs (MSM)

At 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, the Knights of Columbus at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church (Council #7447) will hold their 39th annual appreciation dinner for the law enforcement officers of Maury County and its towns. The dinner, catered by Shaffer Farms Barbecue, is open to anyone who wishes to honor LEOs and their families.

“Each year the Knights of Columbus… honor local law enforcement,” said Grand Knight William Simpson, “for the sacrifices they make to ensure we live in a safe community.”

At the dinner each department (Maury County Sheriff, Columbia, Spring Hill and Mount Pleasant Police) will present an award to its Officer of the Year, accompanied by a speech from the department chiefs.


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.




Night of Hope (Press Release)

The Well Outreach is pleased to present their 2025 "Night of Hope" on February 22nd, 2025 at Worldwide Stages featuring Christian Contemporary Artists, We The Kingdom! It's going to be an evening full of inspiring live music, worship, and hope - plus, your ticket helps feed local families in need.


What's Included:

- Your ticket feeds a family of four with groceries for a week

- VIP/Meet & Greet opportunities (with upgraded ticket)

- Small bites and tastings before the show

- A live auction to support The Well Outreach’s cause

- A powerful concert and worship experience with We The Kingdom


This event raises important funding for the rest of the year so that The Well can meet the needs of thousands of families coming to their food pantry with food insecurities. This is more than just a concert - it's a night to come together in faith and make a tangible impact on the lives of those who need it most. 

Tickets are still available, including limited seats to a special meet-and-greet with We The Kingdom plus tickets by the seat or table.

For more information on the work and mission of the Well Outreach, please visit their website: thewelloutreach.org


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 will be conducted Friday, February 7, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Trinity Lane Church of Christ 501 E Trinity Ln, Nashville. Interment will follow at 2:30 PM at Greenvale Cemetery in Greenvale, TN.

The family will visit with friends on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 4:00 PM till 6:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home and again on Friday, February 7, 2025 from 10:00 AM till the time of service at Trinity Lane Church of Christ.


And now, news from around the state…


Special Legislative Session to Begin This Week (Tennessean)

Tennessee lawmakers could be looking at a nearly $1 billion special session slated to begin this week after Gov. Bill Lee directed legislators to cram in voucher legislation, disaster relief and immigration enforcement before returning to a regular session.

Republican leadership hopes to allocate $447 million toward Lee's signature voucher proposal, in addition to $470 million across several disaster relief programs that have been proposed, per a leadership appropriations bill filed this week.

A $917 million price tag for lawmakers to consider and vote on within a matter of days is already quite high, but it's likely appropriations will be rise even higher.

If lawmakers want to pass Lee's immigration enforcement plans, they'll need fund an entirely new office and pay local governments to assist federal enforcement authorities, among other funding items.

The appropriations bill does not currently include any funding for the immigration proposal, which hasn't yet been filed.

The appropriations bill also makes clear Lee and leadership are seeking to explicitly tie together disaster relief funding, which both parties have called for, with his previously failed voucher bill.

Though lawmakers will be able to vote on separate bills to establish the voucher and disaster relief programs, the appropriations bill to fund them will require a single up-or-down vote.

Senate Bill 6005 calls for:

$225.8 million in recurring and $198.4 million in non-recurring funds to support Lee's Education Freedom Scholarship proposal;

$210 million to establish the Hurricane Helene Interest Payment Fund;

$240 million for TEMA Disaster Relief Grants;

$20 million in one-time funding for a grant to rebuild a Carter County high school;

$6.2 million to the Department of Education for local schools; and

$17 million to the Department of Education for high-performing school incentives.


Gas Prices (MSM)

Gas prices across Tennessee rose three cents, on average, over last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.79 which is eight cents more expensive than both one month and one year ago. 

“The recent surges in crude oil pricing are continuing to place upward pressure on the prices we see at the gas pump,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The bitter cold temperatures that we’re seeing are also causing strong demand for winter heating fuel, which puts additional upward pressure on global oil prices. For now, drivers can expect to see continued fluctuation at the pump. The good news for Tennesseans is that so far the fluctuations are minimal and we are still one of the cheapest markets in the country for gas prices.” 

Tennessee is sixth least-expensive state in nation for gas prices.


Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)


ACM Artist of the Decade and 3X Entertainer of the Year Country powerhouse Jason Aldean announced he will hit the road on his Full Throttle Tour 2025 Powered by Patriot Mobile, featuring special guests Nate Smith, RaeLynn, and Dee Jay Silver.

Produced by Live Nation, the tour kicks off at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, on May 23 and stops at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Thursday, August 17th.

Tickets are available now.  Visit JasonAldean.com for more information.

0 comments

Comments


bottom of page