Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-22-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for October 22, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Walmart Theft (MauryCountySource)

SHPD detectives are working to identify the person who allegedly stole over $1,000 worth of sports cards from Walmart on October 3rd.

A photo of the suspect can be viewed at MauryCountySource.com

The subject left in a black Toyota Sienna with a Texas license plate.

Anyone who recognizes this person is asked to contact Detective Gillam at sgillam@springhilltn.org.

Stranded Hunter (MauryCountySource)

Emergency crews responded Sunday afternoon to the Yanahli Wildlife Management Area after a hunter became stranded in a tree. Dispatchers received the call at 4:17 PM.

Officials said part of the man’s climbing stand had broken, preventing him from getting down safely. Thanks to location data provided through Maury County 911, responders were able to reach him quickly.

Rescue personnel used a 24-foot ladder to help the hunter safely descend from the tree. No injuries were reported.

Back 9 Golf Opening (WKOM Audio 1:30)

A new 24 hour golf facility held their grand opening in Spring Hill yesterday. Front Porch Radio’s Delk Kennedy stopped by the ribbon cutting and spoke to proprietor Jeff Palmer to see what the new facility has to offer its patrons.

Drinking Water Cross Connection (Press Release)

As fall begins, this time of year is when many will begin working outdoors in their yards to fertilize and plant in preparation for the cold of winter. The dangers associated with cross-contamination of the public water supply is real, and Columbia Power & Water Systems (CPWS) is dedicated to informing the public about those dangers.

A garden hose submerged in any liquid or attached to certain devices used to spray pesticides or herbicides can create a cross connection.

 A cross-connection is any actual or potential link between a drinking water system and any source of non-potable (unsafe) water or other substances. Back siphonage occurs when a sudden drop in pressure in the water supply, like from a water main break, firefighting, or heavy water use, creates a vacuum that siphons non-potable substances back into the clean water pipes.

 If chemicals, such as antifreeze, pesticides, or fertilizers used for winter prep, are connected to or submerged near a water outlet, back siphonage can pull them into the home's or even the public's drinking water system.

 Devices are available to prevent this problem; however, the best solution is to always be careful how you use your garden hose.

Safety devices, such as hose connection "vacuum breakers" can be purchased inexpensively at any hardware store and do not require a plumber. Remember to buy a safety device for all your outdoor taps, including frost-free spigots.  In addition to all irrigation systems, all non-residential and commercial establishments must be protected by a CPWS-approved backflow device.

 Please help us provide a safe supply of water to all our customers. Remember, never place a garden hose in anything you would not want to drink.

 For more information on cross connections and how to protect against them, please call CPWS at 931-388-4833, pick up a cross-connection pamphlet in the CPWS lobby or visit the "Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention" section on our website at cpws.com.

City Mulls De-Annexation (MSM)

At their study session on Oct. 2, the Columbia City Council discussed the first property “de-annexation” request in the city’s history.

In 1989, the old Crouch family property on Darks Mill Road was annexed in a “package deal” with the NorthPointe Industrial Complex, in the expectation that a residential development would be built upon it. At the time, it had already come before the city Planning Commission twice as a lone property, and both times it was rejected for annexation. After annexation, its sale and development never happened as promised, and the residents never received city services. Now its owners, the Drainsfield family, have asked the city to release them from municipal zoning and return them to the county.

Justin Batt, a friend of the Drainsfields, spoke on their behalf while they were in the audience. Kevin Drainsfield had almost built a home for his daughter’s family on part of the land, but he discovered that city regulations would require him to pay a quarter-of-a-million dollars to lay a water pipe for a city fire hydrant. De-annexation would allow them to live and build more freely on the property according to the county zoning ordinance.

“The city of Columbia has never de-annexed property before,” stated City Manager Tony Massey.

Paul Keltner, director of Development Services, explained that de-annexation is very rare in the state of Tennessee. On his judgment, however, the Darks Mill Road plot presents an ideal test case: it isn’t connected to city utilities, it failed annexation twice on its own merits, and should a future owner wish to be annexed, it’s still contiguous with other city zoning.

“I looked at it on the map, and I’m not sure why it was annexed to begin with,” commented Vice Mayor Randy McBroom.

At the study session, Molder was cautious: even one de-annexation, he pointed out, has the potential to create an unwelcome precedent. Still, he agreed that not many candidate properties have so many disqualifiers and disincentives, and he recommended putting it on the Planning Commission agenda for November.

Maury 911 Supervisor Recognized (MSM)

The Tennessee Emergency Numbers Association gave their Supervisor of the Year award to Jessica Haywood, the B-shift daytime supervisor at Maury 911. She was nominated by Maury 911 administrator Crystal Gideon for her daily effort and career commitment to Maury 911 and her coworkers, and she received the award at TENA’s 2025 Awards Banquet in Murfreesboro.

Maury 911’s staff and Director Mark Gandee congratulated her.

“Thank you, Jessica,” the organization said in a social-media post. “Help us let Jessica know how much we appreciate her hard work and this major achievement.”

Wiremasters Supports Amuseum with Memberships (MSM)

Maury County families stand to benefit from Columbia Children’s Museum, aMuse’um’s partnership with WireMasters in the form of one-year free of memberships to the Children’s Museum of Columbia.

aMuse’um announced the new membership initiative in partnership with WireMasters, a global leader in wire, cable and interconnect products headquartered in Columbia. WireMasters has extended their commitment to community by sponsoring the local program to support children and families.

The new program, titled “Launch into Play with WireMasters,” is part of aMuse’um’s broader Access Membership Initiative — aimed at removing barriers so more children and families in the community can learn, play, and explore together. Through the partnership, participating families will receive a free one-year family membership to aMuse’um.

Thanks to the WireMasters’ partnership, the first wave of foldable “Launch Tickets to Play” has been distributed to students at six local elementary schools: Baker, Brown, Highland Park, Howell, Mt. Pleasant and Riverside. Additional elementary schools in Maury County, as well as local Head Start programs, will receive certificates later this month.

Each certificate invites creativity and connection:

• Families are encouraged to fold the ticket into a rocket, plane, or glider of their own design.

• When they bring their creation to the museum, it can be redeemed for a free one-year family membership with unlimited admission, discounts on event tickets and birthday parties, and early access to programs.

• QR codes link families to aMuse’um’s event calendar, donation page, newsletter signup and social media.

“This initiative is about more than admission — it’s about opening doors and creating space for families to play and learn together in meaningful ways. We’re thankful to WireMasters for helping us break down barriers and bring the gift of play to more children in our community,” aMuse’um Executive Director Maeghan Wall said.

The program was further supported by the generosity of the local UPS Store, which printed the first wave of certificates in full color and two-sided at no cost.

Certificates began going home with students the week of Sept. 8, and families are encouraged to bring their folded rocket or plane to the museum to launch their membership.

Mt. Pleasant Citizens’ Police Academy (MSM)

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department is making plans to start a Citizens’ Academy program. The department hopes to consolidate their relationships with the people of the city they serve and give them more understanding of daily police operations.

“I feel like we have a good rapport with the citizens of Mt Pleasant currently, based on mutual trust and respect,” Officer Cory England said. “Ideally, both the citizens and the police department should see each other working towards the same goals: a safe and supportive community.”

The Citizen’s Police Academy is a four-week program that meets at the police department from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24, and one Saturday which hasn’t yet been picked. At classes, participants will learn about the responsibilities of law enforcement, from fieldwork like patrolling and criminal investigations, to clerical work including hiring, communications and law. Participants will also get familiar with police equipment and do hands-on activities; if the program is successful, they might start taking citizens on ride-alongs and other, more involved missions.

“This academy is by no means certifying anyone to be a police officer, only a small look into what we do,” England said. “[But] it may help recruit people who want to be officers in the long run, not only for Mt Pleasant but other agencies.”

The academy is open to everyone 21 years or older, though preference will be given to applicants who work or live in Mt. Pleasant city limits. A paper application form must be printed off the police department’s website and mailed to: Mount Pleasant Police Department, 100 Public Square, P.O. Box 426, Mt. Pleasant, TN 38483, Attn: Cory England

Questions about the Academy can be asked of Officer England at cengland@mtpleasant-tn.gov or (931) 379-3201.

Columbia State Performance Series (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College welcomes Scott Mulvahill to the Cherry Theater on November 13 as part of the Performance Series sponsored by First Farmers and Merchants Bank.

Scott Mulvahill doesn’t just play the upright bass—he reinvents it. A genre-blending singer-songwriter, he fuses Americana, folk, jazz and experimental sounds into something truly original.

“Scott Mulvahill has reimagined what the upright bass can do, even pioneering his own DataBass instrument,” said Tammy Rosson, Columbia State director of events and alumni relations. “Joined by his incredible band, he delivers a sound that’s as inventive as it is soulful, and we’re honored to welcome him back to the Cherry Theater stage.”

A former member of Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, Mulvahill struck out on his own with Himalayas and his groundbreaking DataBass project. Encouraged by Bruce Hornsby, he’s since taken the stage on NPR’s Tiny Desk, Mountain Stage, and TEDxNashville, collaborating with Cory Wong, Lauren Daigle, and Keb’ Mo’. Don’t miss this musical innovator live in concert.

“Scott was well-received the first time he performed in the Cherry Theater, and we are delighted to welcome him back to Columbia State,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “He has continued to hone his craft through reimagining the sounds his instruments can produce; our audience will enjoy the evening!”

Tickets for each performance are priced at $35 and include all fees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.

Individuals may also contact the Performance Series ticket line at 931.540.2879, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On performance nights, the box office opens at 6 p.m. in the Kenneth and Ramona Cherry Theater, located in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows begin at 7 p.m. The Columbia Campus is located at 1665 Hampshire Pike in Columbia.

For more information, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.

Maury Business Guide (Press Release)

Explore why Maury County is an ideal destination for businesses, professionals, and families in the latest issue of Maury County Business! This annual guide highlights our vibrant community, thriving business scene, and enviable quality of life. Whether you're a prospective resident, entrepreneur, or site selector, this must-read publication offers insights into what makes our region special.

Here’s how you can connect:

• Read Online: Visit [livability.com/maury-county] to explore unique stories about living, working, and thriving here.

• Print Copies: Contact the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance located at

Join us in celebrating and sharing Maury County’s remarkable qualities, and thank you to our advertising sponsors for making this possible!

Spring Hill Chamber Awards (Press Release)

Join the Spring Hill Chamber for their annual Excellence in Business Gala on Friday, November 7th at the UAW Hall located at 125 Stephen P. Yokich Parkway. This premier black-tie event celebrates outstanding leadership, innovation, and community impact across our local business community. Guests will enjoy an elegant served dinner, open bar, and live entertainment from an Old-School Motown Revue Band, The Compozitionz.

Please join us as we recognize this year’s distinguished nominees:

Business of the Year

• Light Hill Meats

• Grecian Family Restaurant & Bakery

• The Awaken House

 Non-Profit of the Year

• Friends of the Spring Hill Library

• The Well Outreach

• Community Baptist Church

PLUS, Woman and Man of the Year!

We look forward to an inspiring evening of celebration, connection, and community pride as we honor those who make Spring Hill a thriving place to live and do business.

Tickets are limited and expected to sell out — reserve your seat today!

https://business.springhillchamber.com/events/details/tonight-business-excellence-awards-gala-36855

Spring Hill License Kiosk (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has introduced a new Driver License Self-Service Kiosk in the lobby of its headquarters at 800 Hathaway Blvd. The kiosk is open to all Tennessee residents—regardless of county—and offers a convenient alternative to visiting the DMV.

Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the kiosk allows users to:

* Renew a driver license

* Obtain a duplicate license or state ID

* Change their address

* Pay reinstatement fees in full

The kiosk does not accept cash or checks; payment must be made using a credit or debit card.

No appointment is necessary. For more information about the service, visit www.tn.gov/content/tn.

And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…

Peter John Konesky, 90, a resident of Columbia, died Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. 

Carolyn Eugenia Chambers Cromer Nance, 82, a longtime resident of Columbia, died Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Lone Oak Cemetery in Lewisburg. The family will visit with friends Thursday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Now, news from around the state…

Bucksnort Blast (WPLN)

Explosions happen fairly often. Gas pipelines are a common source, killing an average of about 10 people each year. Large explosions with many fatalities, however, have been uncommon in recent decades.

The Oct. 11 explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems in Hickman County killed 16 people, making it the deadliest explosion in the 21st century, according to official reports of blasts since 2000.

AES handles several types of explosives like TNT, or tri-nitro-toluene, and at least a component of C-4. AES removed pages about their products and “formulations,” but the information is still available through the Internet Archive. As of Friday, the company had only a homepage mentioning the incident.

Officials have not disclosed what type of explosives were in the building that ignited.

“Any information that we give to the community, we want to be 100% spot on. So, I will not speculate,” Tyra Cunningham, an agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said during a press conference.

Weapons production is not more dangerous than other manufacturing jobs, nor is it deadlier than other vocations. Logging, fishing and hunting have the highest fatality rates. But explosives work is dangerous and appears more likely to cause multiple fatalities simultaneously. Just two months ago, a blast at an explosives factory in Brazil killed nine people.

Vandy to Host Game Day (Tennessean)

ESPN’s College Gameday will air on the Vanderbilt Campus this Saturday. Vanderbilt football's "College GameDay" appearance will take place on Wyatt Lawn, the program announced via social media on Oct. 21.

Located in an area of campus that contains many of the freshman dorms, Wyatt Lawn was also where the Commodores played an outdoor volleyball game in August. That game had 3,467 fans at that game.

Holding the show on-campus was a big decision the program faced. Some advocated for holding the show at Centennial Park or on Broadway, but the university chose a campus location instead. When Vanderbilt last hosted "College GameDay" in 2008, the show was held on the university's Commons.

The ESPN show will begin at 8 a.m. CT on Oct. 25 ahead of the game between #10 Vanderbilt (6-1, 2-1 SEC) and #15 Missouri (6-1, 2-1) at FirstBank Stadium (2:30 p.m. CT, ESPN).

Gas Prices (MSM)

Tennessee gas prices continued their downward trend last week, falling three cents, on average. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.68 which is 10 cents less expensive than one month ago and 11 cents less than one year ago.   “Tennesseans are beginning to see cooler weather and even cooler prices at the gas pump,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Lowered gasoline demand and ample gasoline supplies are helping to keep prices at the pump low, which is good news for those traveling for fall break.” 

Tennessee is currently the tenth least expensive state in the nation for gas prices.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Tony Brown, June Carter Cash and Kenny Chesney became the 156th, 157th and 158th members of the Country Music Hall of Fame as they were formally inducted during a star-studded Medallion Ceremony in the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum’s CMA Theater.

Brown, Cash and Chesney received country music’s highest distinction and were honored with heartfelt remarks and inspired performances of songs associated with their careers.

Produced by the staff of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the annual Medallion Ceremony celebrates the unique talents, personalities and backgrounds of each Hall of Fame inductee, as well as the important turning points and the breakthrough artistic achievements that defined their careers. 

Learn more at www.countrymusichalloffame.org.