Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-14-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for November 14, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Columbia Gets CDBG Grant (Press Release)

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Deputy Gov. and Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced today that $26.5 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) will be awarded to 44 communities statewide to assist with infrastructure and beautification improvements.

“Ensuring that our local infrastructure is equipped to meet the demands of future economic development is a top priority for our administration,” said Gov. Lee. “Congratulations to these 44 communities for taking the necessary steps to strengthen their local economies. I look forward to seeing the lasting, positive impact this investment will bring.”

The allocation of CDBG funds is based on priorities set through the public meeting process at the local community level. The CDBG program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by TNECD. Funds are available for water and sewer improvements, health and safety projects and other improvements to enhance the quality of life in Tennessee’s rural communities.

In addition to traditional community improvement and safety projects, funding was also made available for community development projects, such as sidewalk and walking trail improvements, street paving and community centers.

“The CDBG program is one of our most valuable tools for helping Tennessee communities prepare for future economic growth,” said Deputy Gov. and Commissioner McWhorter. “We’re thrilled to support these 44 projects and thankful for the strong local leadership and partnership that make this progress possible.”

Among the recipients is the City of Columbia who was awarded $781,681 for drainage improvements.

CSCC Hosts Stem Within Reach (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College recently hosted its STEM Within Reach event, which encouraged local middle schoolers’ curiosity for science, technology, engineering and math careers.

The event focused on providing attendees with a look at the various paths of study and career opportunities available in STEM fields as they begin to think about their futures.

Janelle Williams, a Columbia State alumna and current production engineering site lead for Boeing, was the keynote speaker who spoke to the middle schoolers before the day’s events kicked off.

Williams began working for Boeing in 2017 to help NASA engineer space rocket launching technology.

Just as a career in a STEM field changed her life, she returned to Columbia State to help inspire students to pursue their interests—wherever it may take them.

“To be asked to be the keynote speaker this year was definitely a highlight, and I’m so glad I was able to share my experiences with the students and how those experiences shaped my future, most especially that I started my journey at Columbia State,” Williams said. “To quote Buzz Lightyear, ‘To Infinity and Beyond!’ You are only limited by your own creativity and imagination. Use your imagination to turn that creativity into passion, and you’ll never work a day in your life. The sky is no longer the limit; reach for the stars. I think STEM Within Reach is the first step to our children finding that creativity that will spark their passion to reach higher.”

In her closing thoughts to the students, Williams encouraged them to be curious and open-minded in their interests, as they will be the next generation to guide and pioneer the future of STEM fields.

“If you’re interested in a career in STEM fields, remember that it’s not just about numbers and equations, it’s about creativity, problem-solving and making a difference in the world,” Williams said. “So, as you explore your interests today, don’t be afraid to ask questions, try new things and most importantly, do what you love. The world needs your talent and unique perspectives. You have the power to shape the future of STEM.”

The one-day event was open to all 6th, 7th and 8th graders and offered interactive, hands-on activities as well as encouraged early student success in STEM, provided awareness of STEM careers available in Tennessee and promoted the scientific and technological understanding of such fields.

“Having been part of this event since its very first year in 2012, I've seen it evolve through both challenges and triumphs,” said Andrew Wright, Columbia State assistant vice president of faculty, curriculum and programs. “Every time I watch middle-school students light up as they discover something new about STEM, I'm reminded why we do this. Their excitement and growth rejuvenate me year after year.”

The workshops at STEM Within Reach were designed to teach middle school students about the different opportunities in STEM-related careers as they begin to think about their futures.

Stations were set up around campus for the students to observe and participate while Columbia State faculty and guest presenters guided them through an interactive, hands-on experience.

Stations featured at the event included:

• Cow eyeball dissection

• Coding and playing a computer game

• Constructing a self-sustaining ecosystem in a container

• Creating chlorophyll fluorescence using plants

• Using forensic anthropology to assemble skeletons

• Studying how infectious diseases spread

• Virtual reality gameplay and experience

• Interacting with live animals

• Creating clouds in controlled chambers

• Operating remote-controlled robots

• Creating usable 3D-printed pumpkin launchers

“It was a fun and inspiring day. At the end of the event, Wright asked the attending students what they had taken away from the day's activities — and well over half the hands in the auditorium shot up,” said Dr. Ryan Badeau, Columbia State educational services coordinator for the Williamson Campus, associate professor of physics and co-chair for the STEM Within Reach event. “The success of the event is a testament to the effort and passion of Columbia State's faculty, staff and even some of our college students who shared their love of science, technology and math.”

STEM Within Reach is made possible through the volunteer effort of Columbia State’s faculty and staff, the donations of community partners like Tennessee Valley Authority, and volunteer community presenters like TechNova Robotics Coach Lisa Tondino and Columbia Fire & Rescue.

“Promoting STEM through robotics outreach is a huge part of what our team loves to do,” said Tondino. “We want younger students to see that engineering can be exciting, creative, and fun — even in middle and high school. Through FIRST Robotics, TechNova gives students an incredible opportunity to build skills in programming, design, CAD, mechanics, problem-solving and teamwork. We were honored to serve our community and had an amazing time sharing our passion for robotics.”

STEM Within Reach was sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Columbia Power and Water Systems, Dickson Electric System, Duck River Electric Membership Corp, Lawrenceburg Utility System, Lewisburg Electric System, Meriwether Lewis Electric Co-op, Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Co-op, Mount Pleasant Power System, Nashville Electric Service, Pulaski Electric System – Energize and Tennessee Valley Electric Co-op.

Whitthorne Career Day (WKOM Audio 2:05)

Yesterday was Whitthorne Middle School’s career day. WKOM/WKRM’s James Dickinson stopped by and spoke to Desirea Kelly and student Ariana Gary to learn about what career day is all about…

Ashwood Development (MSM)

The Mt. Pleasant City Commission has scheduled public hearings on the proposed John Maher Builders development of 247 houses on a 106-acre property on Trotwood Avenue across from Historic St. John’s Church and Polk Memorial Gardens. Public comment will be taken at 6 p.m. on Nov. 24 and 7 p.m. on Dec. 8, before the second and final vote on the matter scheduled for Dec. 16. The resolution before them would rezone the property to the dense residential R3 category, the plan of services to the neighborhood, and annex the site and some surrounding land parcels and stretches of road to the city of Mt. Pleasant.

According to the plan of services, Mt. Pleasant would service the neighborhood with emergency response, waste removal and electricity. Columbia Power and Water Systems would supply potable water. Edge Wastewater, a private entity under the supervision of TDEC, would install, operate and maintain the neighborhood’s Septic Tank-Effluent Pump (STEP) system, which would pump wastewater (not solid waste) from household septic vaults to a facility at the north end of the property for treatment and reintroduction to the environment.

In three previous public hearings, more than 60 people have voiced their objection to the development citing historical integrity, traffic concerns, a high rate of failure in the STEP system, and lack of infrastructure and safety. In the public hearings, no one has spoken in favor of the development.

According to Main Street Maury interviews with the City Commissioners, Mayor Bill White and Commissioner Pam Johnston, who is also on the Planning Commission are in favor of the development. Commissioners Mike Davis and Loree Knowles are solidly against the development. Commissioner Willie Alderson states that she has not made a decision about her vote.

East Columbia Small Area Plan (Press Release)

The City of Columbia invites residents to participate in a public open house to review and provide feedback on the draft East Columbia Small Area Plan. The event will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Dr. Christa S. Martin Community Center at Fairview Park, located at 871 Iron Bridge Road.

The East Columbia Small Area Plan is designed to identify projects and priorities that help implement the City’s Comprehensive Plan, focusing on enhancing community connections, improving health and walkability, and addressing facility and service needs across East Columbia neighborhoods.

The open house format will allow attendees to drop in at any time between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. to review displays, share feedback, and speak directly with City staff and planning consultants. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

For more information about the East Columbia Small Area Plan or upcoming community meetings, please contact the City of Columbia Planning Department at (931) 560-1531.

Movie Night to Benefit Kids Place (Press Release)

You’re invited to join the Maury Alliance Young Professionals for a Community Movie Night benefiting Kid’s Place: A Child Advocacy Center!

 Date: November 21

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: The Well Church, Columbia, TN

Bring your family and friends for a heartwarming holiday showing of The Polar Express and enjoy delicious popcorn! 

Please bring a wishlist donation item to support local children in need! Financial donations will also be accepted. To see a list of items on the wishlist, click the button below.



Let’s kick off the season of giving together and make a meaningful difference in our community!

About Kid’s Place:

Kid’s Place is the Child Advocacy Center serving Maury, Giles, Lawrence, and Wayne counties. They provide hope, help, and healing for children who have experienced severe child abuse. By uniting professionals in law enforcement, child protection, medical care, mental health, and victim advocacy, Kid’s Place ensures children and their families receive comprehensive, trauma-informed care in one supportive location.

To learn more about Kid’s Place, visit https://www.kpcac.org/.

We hope to see you there for this special night of community and giving!

No Trash November (Press Release)

The City of Columbia, in partnership with Keep Maury Beautiful, is proud to announce the launch of its No Trash November Litter Awareness Campaign, a month-long initiative focused on sustainability, beautification, and community pride. These activities are part of the City’s broader Clean Up Columbia Litter Awareness Initiative, which engages residents, schools, and community groups in efforts to reduce litter, enhance public spaces, and promote environmental stewardship year-round.

“No Trash November is about more than just cleaning up,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “It’s about coming together as a community to take pride in the place we call home and to set an example of civic responsibility for future generations.”

Throughout the month, residents are encouraged to participate in community events that highlight creativity, service, and environmental awareness. The Trash to Treasure Art Exhibit will be on display from November 10 through 30 at the Columbia Aquatic & Recreation Center (ARC). Students from Maury County Public Schools will showcase artwork made from recycled and repurposed materials, demonstrating their innovation and commitment to sustainability.

On Saturday, November 15, residents can volunteer during Parks Clean Up and Beautification Day, a citywide effort to beautify local parks. Clean-up times and locations include Riverwalk Park from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Fairview Park from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., and Woodland Park from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. Supplies and instructions will be provided on site, and participation is open to individuals, families, and community groups.

The month concludes with a Community Clean-Up Event on Saturday, November 22, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. in East Columbia. Volunteers will meet at the corner of Woodland Street and East 7th Street to pick up supplies and route maps before joining neighbors and city staff to help remove litter, protect local waterways, and strengthen community pride.

“The City is committed to maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming public spaces,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “While our crews work year-round to keep Columbia beautiful, initiatives like No Trash November give residents the opportunity to partner in that effort and take pride in the results we achieve together.”

For more information, visit www.ColumbiaTN.gov.

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.

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.

The next Sobriety Checkpoints will be on November 28, 2025, at 8 pm on State Highway 7 .1 miles south of Knob Creek Road 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.

Youth Leadership Maury (Press Release)

Applications are now open for Youth Leadership Maury! Youth Leadership Maury is a county-wide program for high school juniors designed to foster leadership skills, community development, and networking.

Class members meet with local decision-makers in several sectors of the community, such as business, government, health, public services and agriculture.

Participants will visit places all over the county to hear speakers and participate in activities to help them learn about Maury County and how to positively impact where they live, learn, work and play.

2026 Program Dates:

Thursday, January 22nd - Team Building Day

Tuesday, February 10th - Economic Development

Thursday, March 12th - State Government

Tuesday, April 14th - Government / Tourism / Health

Wednesday, April 29th - Agriculture / Graduation

Apply online by visiting https://mauryalliance.com/youth-leadership/

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

Mr. Gary Douglas “Herky” Kinser, 89, retired owner of Herky’s Outdoor Sports, died Thursday, November 6th at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center. A memorial service will be held Saturday November 15th at 2:00 PM at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The family will visit with friends from 12:00 noon until time of the services at the church. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Directors are assisting the family with the arrangements

Now, news from around the state…

Rutherford Mayor Injured (Tennessean)

Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr is currently hospitalized after being injured while training horses with his son, a spokeswoman announced Nov. 12.

Carr is at the Vanderbilt Trauma Center in Nashville, according to the news release from Lisa Kaye, spokeswoman for Rutherford County government. The mayor is undergoing evaluation and receiving treatment for nine broken ribs, a lacerated liver, and a semi-collapsed lung, the news release said.

Mayor Carr offered the following comments to The Daily News Journal.

"I have an excellent prognosis for returning back to work," Carr said.

"With nine broken ribs, it’s going to take a while to heal, but we will heal. And when we heal, we will be healed better than ever. God is Good. This is nothing more than an unscheduled vacation."

Carr also offered comments in the news release.

“This is the first time that I have spent the night in the hospital in 65 years,” Carr said in the news release. “I’m glad it was from doing something I love. RCEMS (Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services) and the medical teams have been awesome.”

Further details regarding his medical condition are not available at this time. Both horses are fine, the news release added.

End of the Penny (Tennessean)

After 232 years of production, the U.S. Treasury Department ended production of the penny Nov. 12 with the final five pennies stamped with a special omega mark. They will not go into circulation and instead will be auctioned off in the future. The only pennies left will be those already in circulation, and some stores are already running short.

As pennies are phased out, prices will start to change, with items being rounded up to a nickel.

Now that the penny is no longer being minted, should Tennesseans be checking their piggy banks for that might be worth a bit more than 1 cent? Here's what to know.

The currency that is only worth 1 cent costs about 3.7 cents to produce in fiscal year 2024, according to the U.S. Mint's annual report. A nickel costs about 13.8 cents to make. The price to make both coins has been on the rise for almost the last decade.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Disney’s Dare to Dream, Jr. is playing at Columbia State Community College on November 15 at 2pm and 6pm. This fun and breathtaking 60-minute musical revue is a theatrical celebration of music, creativity, and the dreams that live inside us all. The Out of the Box Theater cast includes 85 students led by Amy Egnew, Lori Joffs and Shelby Egnew.

“Dare to Dream makes me feel as if I am walking down Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom while celebrating with each student their unique gifts and talents, said Amy Egnew.

To purchase tickets, visit www.outoftheboxtn.com.