Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-17-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for November 17, 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 Soccer Hosts Signing Day (Press Release)

Columbia State women's soccer recently hosted a Signing Day event for the first two recruits of the 2026 season.

At the signing, the current high school seniors and their families traveled to the Columbia Campus to be recognized while getting to know their future coaches and teammates.

The team’s newest recruits include Zaharia Walker, from Rossview High School in Clarksville, and Lilly Necci from Independence High School in Thompson’s Station.

“I'm incredibly excited to add these two incredible student athletes to our program,” said Kean Barclay, Columbia State women’s soccer head coach. “They will bring a lot of tools that I believe will contribute to our program right from the beginning. First and foremost, they have tremendous character. We need to bring in the types of players who exhibit characteristics that will fit well with us. They're both incredibly hard-working players, honest, committed and dedicated to their own development and progress, as well as the team.”

“I love that we get to celebrate signing day by welcoming these two talented young women to our Lady Chargers Soccer program,” said Katie Willingham, Columbia State athletics director. “I’m excited to watch their growth both on and off the pitch as part of the Chargers family.”

When asked what drew each player to Columbia State, they both mentioned the overall culture and team dynamic as a major factor in deciding to join the Lady Chargers.

“I've known Kean for a long time, and so I knew that he would be a reliable coach that I could always trust to be there for me and push me to be better,” Walker said. “And I think just the first time I walked on campus, I immediately felt like it was a family and everybody was really kind.”

“I've been playing soccer ever since I was little, and playing college soccer was my dream for a very long time,” Necci said. “And I think just being here, meeting all of the girls and just the community here really has just been so special, and I'm so excited.”

When asked what they can contribute to the Lady Chargers, Walker said she will fit well into the new team dynamic with her positive outlook on the game and what she can bring to the field.

“When it comes to overall mentality, I'm somebody who can always stay positive and kind of uplift the team,” Walker said. “And tactically, I'm fast on the ball, with and without it, and so I can get through the back line, and I think that would really help attack.”

Necci says she’ll be able to bring grit, perseverance and focus to her new team.

“I think mentally for me, I'm somebody who never gives up,” Necci said. “I have a lot of mental endurance, so I'm really excited to be able to contribute that. And then physically, I'm fast, I'm strong and I'm able to make quick decisions. So, I'm excited to use that on the field.”

“Their team-first mentality fits the identity of who we are,” Barclay said. “I believe they both will be able to contribute to creating chances for us to score with their speed and athletic abilities. I know they're excited to join us next fall, and I'm looking forward to another great class.”

For more information on Columbia State women’s soccer, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Womens-Soccer.

CSCC Hosts Stem Within Reach (Press Release)

In other Columbia State news…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.

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/

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…

Gloria Ann Quirk Burns, 87, lifelong resident of Columbia, died Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Brookdale Assisted Living.

Funeral services will be conducted Monday, November 17, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Neapolis Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Sunday, November 16, 2025 from 4:00 PM till 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Now, news from around the state…

Federal Shutdown Over (Tennessean)

With the end of the government shutdown in effect, federal employees across the country have been ordered to return to work as they await over a month of back pay.

During the 43-day federal shutdown, employees were either furloughed or continued to work as essential employees, but neither group received pay throughout this period. Some, including military members and homeland security officers, received paychecks after President Donald Trump's administration pulled strings.

The federal government fully reopened in the late evening on Nov. 12 after Trump signed a bill to fund agencies through Jan. 30, 2026. Federal employees were required to resume work the next day.

"Agencies should take all necessary steps to ensure that offices open in a prompt and orderly manner on November 13, 2025. Employees who were on furlough due to the absence of appropriations should be directed to return to work on November 13," a memo from Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought said.

A senior Trump administration official confirmed to USA TODAY that departments are aiming to send out checks covering back pay between Nov. 15 and 19, depending on the agency. Semafor first reported the timeline.

Because agencies have different payroll providers and payment processes, timing could vary. It's also why there is a discrepancy in the period covered by the initial check, the official said.

Most agencies are currently in the middle of their pay period, so the check only covers through Nov. 1. Pay for the rest of November, so far, will be in workers' next paycheck. There were 32,574 civilian federal employees stationed in Tennessee in 2024, according to a congressional report and data from the Office of Personnel Management. The Economic Policy Institute found that 62,954 civilian federal employees worked in Tennessee.

Note that these numbers vary from those of all federal employees who live in Tennessee, as the latter is significantly higher.

The American Community Survey estimates that more than 97,000 federal employees live across Tennessee's nine congressional districts.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Country Music Association has announced Country Music legend Vince Gill as the 2025 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Gill will accept the honor during “The 59th Annual CMA Awards,” following a special tribute performance. “The 59th Annual CMA Awards” airs live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena Wednesday, Nov. 19 on ABC and next day on Hulu.

“Vince embodies the very best of what Country Music stands for,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “He’s a true trailblazer, one who gives back to the community, honors the roots of our genre, and even now, continues to share his talent with fans across the globe. As a Country Music Hall of Fame member, 18-time CMA Award winner, and former 12-time CMA Awards host, he remains a vibrant force in our industry, and we’re honored to celebrate an artist whose influence is so deeply woven into the fabric of our format.”

Previous recipients of the CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award include Willie Nelson (2012), Kenny Rogers (2013), Johnny Cash (2015), Dolly Parton (2016), Kris Kristofferson (2019), Charley Pride (2020), Loretta Lynn (2021), Alan Jackson (2022) and George Strait (2024).