Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 12-1-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for December 1, 2025

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

We start with local news…

City Addresses East Columbia Development (CDH)

It is the home of historical markers, as well as a thriving community that continues to shape the story of Columbia.

Yet somehow, East Columbia has gone without the same revitalization efforts as its neighboring downtown district.

A project to revitalize areas of East Columbia includes upgraded streets, as well as new features at Fairview Park and an overall feeling of community in a brand-new way.

Though achieving that vision begins by asking those who live there what they want to see happen, and why?

In late 2024, the city received a $50,000 Healthy Built Environment (HBE) grant from the Tennessee Department of Health to begin steps toward a long-term vision for East Columbia.

Kimley-Horn was later hired to conduct preliminary engineering, which included hosting two public input meetings, the first in January followed by a second Thursday, Nov. 20 at the Dr. Christa Martin Community Center at Fairview Park.

"Essentially, what this is about is looking at areas to promote physical activities, which can be in the form of programming, physical structures or connecting sidewalks and putting people where they have easier ways to be more physically active within the neighborhood," Columbia Director of Development Services Paul Keltner said.

"That part plays into so many other parts, the mental health portion of it and quality of life. It all kind of plays into it, the ability to walk around your neighborhood, have places to go with open spaces, things of that nature. It all plays into this bigger picture."

Creating a new landscape for an entire neighborhood is no small task, which Kimley-Horn engineers says needs to start with connectivity.

"We are looking at East Columbia holistically and its connectivity, like from Frierson-Johnson Park up to Fairview Park and have sort of community hubs, create a better connection to these centers of the side of the town, as well as the greenways," Kimley-Horn landscape engineer Anneka Gilliam said. "How does it tie into what is already in the community, how to make it safer to use, asking people, 'Where do you walk? Is it safe?'"

Former Columbia City Councilman Danny Coleman, helped administer the grant application. "This was one of several areas we identified, and obviously historically East Columbia has been disinvested in terms of construction work," Coleman said. "I am excited about this project because it puts us one step toward getting that infrastructure. We can't do this in one fell swoop, but ... this plan lays the groundwork for future improvements to keep on happening."

Coleman added that a similar grant for East Columbia improvements was approved in 2011, and that this is "the 2.0 version of that."

Potential outdoor activities identified include:

• Bike trails

• Indoor walking track

• Shade canopies over basketball court and outdoor workout stations

• Toddler play area

• ATV court

• Programs/skill classes for young adults

• Educational programs for youth (Robotics, STEAM)

While the Nov. 20 public input meeting will be the last, it is actually the start of a process that will continue to the Columbia City Council.

Kimley-Horn will assess feedback garnered from both the January and November meetings and compile the information into a presentation, which will go before council in 2026.

"This is really high level right now, but we will take some of the data to show what the community has been saying, while also sharing our thoughts and really narrowing it down, giving the city a report or package saying, 'Here is what we think, and the community thinks, should be your next steps forward,'" Gilliam said.

Former Ward 3 Councilman Tony Greene, who now oversees operations at the Farview community center, said this project would be "a great addition to the park."

"It will be a very safe and controlled environment for our kids to go out and play, and play safely," Greene said. "It is something I think will be very innovative for the area and will be very well used."

Pinkston Running for Governor (CDH)

A former Lipscomb University professor is throwing her hat in the race for Governor of Tennessee. Lauren Pinkston of Columbia has announced her candidacy as an independent.

Pinkston, a seventh-generation Tennessean, made official her campaign during an event Nov. 22 in Columbia, hosted by former "This is Nashville" radio host Khalil Ekulona.

"I feel like an independent choice like Lauren Pinkston allows us to really talk about the issues as they are, and that helps us find solutions closer to what we want them to be," Ekulona said.

"Considering what Tennessee is facing and challenging, we need someone who is balanced, someone who is clear ... who is necessarily serious about how they approach their life but understands the nuances of that. My feeling is that person is Lauren Pinkston."

Pinkston has a bachelor's degree from Freed-Hardeman University, later earning her Ph.D. from Clemson University. In addition to teaching at Lipscomb University College of Business, Pinkston has also worked with the Freedom Business Alliance, an organization which works to end global human trafficking.

Pinkston said her decision to run as an independent was based primarily on Tennessee's changing landscape of citizens and that livability shouldn't necessarily be tied to one political party.

One of Pinkston's campaign slogans is, "Not red, not blue, just you."

"Love and acceptance, and a willingness to sit across the table and hear someone's story, no matter how different from yours, is healing and what our country needs," Pinkston said.

Pinkston also cited a Gallup Poll, in which data reflects 43% of Tennesseans identified as an independent voter in 2023 and 2024.

"Last quarter, that number jumped up to 47%," Pinkston said. "We know that a strong independent who is truly moderate can win. We just need to come out with a strong race to prove that winnability."

Pinkston addressed Tennessee's historically low voter turnout in gubernatorial elections, and that her campaign is fighting to break that trend.

"I really and truly believe the majority of Tennesseans are just too committed to their values, who are people who say, 'As much as I love my state, my country and as much as I am grateful for veterans and the sacrifices they made for me to vote, I would sleep better at night not voting than putting a checkmark next to someone's name who appears to be the lesser of two evils,'" Pinkston said.

"We are going to run a race where there is an option that doesn't feel evil to you, someone you want to vote for and not somebody you want to vote against. Extremism is finally a bitter taste in the mouths of Tennesseans, and people are ready for a way out."

Candidates in the race for governor in 2026 include U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, U.S. Rep. John Rose, State Rep. Monty Fritts and Cito Pellegra on the Republican side. For the Democrats, Memphis City Councilperson Jerri Green, former Memphis mayoral candidate Carnita Atwater, Tim Cyr and Adam Kurtz have placed their names on the Aug. 6 Primary ballot.

In addition to Pinkston, Stephen Maxwell and Manasa Ready could run as independent candidates.

As someone whose work has centered around building better lives for others, Pinkston said she wants to take that same approach with the people of Tennessee.

And part of that approach is tackling some of the bigger issues currently facing the growing state, such as the need for long-term water solutions.

"We have a great state and it's beautiful, and it needs to be protected, and so [I will be] making sure land is sold in a way that cannot be developed and put unnecessary pressure on our water systems and the issues that make us able to live a vibrant life here," Pinkston said.

Pinkston added that finding solutions to Middle Tennessee's water issues has to start with proper communication.

"There is no good communication between local government and state government," Pinkston said. "We need to be talking with local mayors and local governments way more than we are right now. A hallmark of this campaign will be making sure local communities can thrive, because they know what they need. The information just needs to make it to the state level."

Healthcare is another issue Pinkston said will be a focus.

"Healthcare is a big part of our future, and TennCare is one of the most successful Medicaid programs in the country," Pinkston said. "50% of our children in Tennessee are taken care of by TennCare, and it is going to be a tragedy if those premiums are doubled. We are going to do all we can to protect that, and to make sure it is a conversation we have."

In addition to Columbia, Pinkston's Nov. 22 campaign launch included stops in her hometown of Selmer, as well as Chattanooga.

"Tennessee is the place where we change the conversation for politics in our country," Pinkston said. "We have made incredible decisions throughout history that show we are the kind of people who are morally courageous, that when given the option, we will show the path to heal our politics again."

Ultium Cells Gives to MRMC Foundation (MSM)

For the second consecutive year, employees at Ultium Cells in Spring Hill held an employee fundraising campaign to assist local women facing breast cancer through the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation Breast Center Fund. This year, they raised $8,948, bringing the cumulative two-year donation to $15,519.

According to Tatiana Carter, communications specialist, the funds were raised through sales of t-shirts and pink ribbons featured on a breast cancer awareness display, as well as through a silent auction. Hundreds of team members contributed, helping Ultium Cells surpass last year’s total and make an even greater impact in supporting local patients and families affected by breast cancer.

“I’m very proud of our team for rallying together once again to make a difference,” said Gretchen Murray, president of the Ultium Women Employee Resource Group. “Breast cancer touches the lives of so many in our community. Our hope is that this contribution not only supports those currently in treatment but also raises awareness about the importance of early detection and continued care.”

The Foundation’s Breast Center Fund provides funding for comfort supplies, such as wigs, various headpieces, camisoles and lymphedema garments, educational resources and programs that improve the quality of care for patients. The fund ensures women in the community receive personalized care and support during their health care journey.

“One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime,” said Foundation Executive Director Rita Thompson. “We are deeply grateful for community partners like Ultium Cells whose generosity enables the Foundation to provide essential support for patients. Together, we’re ensuring that women facing breast cancer receive the care and resources they need.”

Night to Honor Ceremony (MSM)

22nd Judicial District Attorney Brent Cooper has announced the return of Night to Honor, an annual event dedicated to supporting families who have lost a loved one to homicide in Giles, Lawrence, Maury and Wayne counties.  

The observance, which is open to the public, will take place in Lawrenceburg at First Baptist Church, 2100 Springer Road, on Monday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. Guests should begin arriving at 5:15 p.m. for registration, with the program beginning at 6 p.m.  

“We hold this event each year with the hope of providing even a small measure of comfort to these families,” Cooper said. “The Christmas season can be an especially difficult time for those experiencing such a profound loss, and our goal is to make the holidays a little brighter for them. We sincerely invite any family member who has lost a loved one to homicide to attend. This night is dedicated to honoring their loved ones and letting them know they are not alone.”

This year’s event will include the testimony of Elizabeth Bargen, the mother of Misty McWhorter, who was a teenager that lost her life as the result of a car crash due to an intoxicated driver on Nov. 26, 2010, in Lawrence County. The driver was convicted and sentenced to a prison term. 

Night to Honor provides an opportunity for families to come together, reflect and receive support from the community and local victim assistance services. The event includes moments of remembrance, words of encouragement and space for families to gather in solidarity.

For additional information about this year’s event, call the District Attorney’s office at 931-766-1453 Ext. 6107 or email Kendra Cannon at klcannon@tndagc.org. They have asked attendees to RSVP to the email address by Dec. 3, including a picture of your loved one to be used in the ceremony. Anyone attending the ceremony is invited to bring an ornament in remembrance of your loved one that will be placed upon a Remembrance Wreath.

Maury Alliance Annual Meeting (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance on Thursday, January 29th, for their most anticipated event of the year, the Maury Alliance Annual Meeting! Celebrate the successes of 2025, honor the transition of their volunteer leadership, and discover their exciting strategic goals for 2026.—all while continuing to commemorate over 100 years of growth, innovation, and community impact in Maury County.  

Enjoy an evening filled with entertainment and networking celebrating business and industry in Maury County with a social hour, elegant dinner and live music.

Purchase tickets now to guarantee a seat at Maury Alliance’s biggest event of the year.

Registration will close January 19 at 5:00 pm. 

Get tickets and learn more by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.

Columbia Christmas Parade (Press Release)

Columbia Main Street, in partnership with the City of Columbia, will host the 39th Annual Columbia Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, 2025. This beloved community tradition will once again fill Columbia’s historic downtown with holiday cheer as the Parade begins at 6:00 PM and travels along the traditional route down West 7th Street into the heart of downtown.

This year’s parade will be hosted by Main Street Director Kelli Johnson and proudly sponsored by Stan McNabb Chevrolet Columbia. Families can expect a festive showcase of illuminated floats, vintage vehicles, tractors, scout groups, local churches, businesses, civic organizations, holiday characters, and marching bands. The parade is expected to last approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and remains one of Columbia’s most anticipated holiday gatherings. 

Serving as grand marshals for this year’s event are the rising pop-dance duo Austin & Colin, known for their high-energy performances, engaging songwriting style, and vibrant creative presence. Based in Nashville, the pair met while attending college and have since built a growing fan base through their dynamic stage shows, upbeat original music, and collaborations with nationally recognized artists. Their lively performance style has made them crowd favorites at festivals, concerts, and community events across the region. 

Adding to the excitement, Kaliente Conway Glenn will kick off the festivities with interactive, audience-involved activities at 5:30 PM, spreading holiday cheer and energizing downtown at the Public Square. Junior Main Street Volunteers will also be on hand, passing out glow sticks to the first 500 kids, thanks to our sponsor, Columbia Machine Works. 

"We invite the community to the 39th Annual Columbia Christmas Parade," said Kelli Johnson, Main Street Director. "The Columbia Main Street Board is excited for you to see Santa’s brand-new sleigh, which will be featured as the final float, so be sure to stay until the end to be among the first to see it!" 

If you’re unable to attend in person, the parade will be streamed live on the Columbia Main Street and City of Columbia YouTube channels, with links available on both organizations’ Facebook pages. A rain date has been scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM. 

The Christmas Parade is one of many festive events planned throughout the holiday season. From downtown shopping and holiday markets to festive tours, Santa sightings, and community celebrations, there’s something for everyone in Muletown this year. For a full list of holiday events, visit ItsChristmasInColumbia.com. 

Those interested in participating in the parade may apply online by November 30, 2025. You can register and learn more about the Columbia Christmas Parade and other Columbia Main Street events at columbiamainstreet.com or contact them at 931-560-1507. 

Short-Term Rental Nonconformity Applications (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is issuing a public reminder to property owners operating short-term rentals (STRs) that nonconformity (grandfathering) applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025, to remain eligible for continued operation in areas where STRs will no longer be permitted by zoning beginning January 1, 2026.

Short-term rentals are permitted (with an STR permit) only in the CD-4, CD-4C, and CD-5 zoning districts. Property owners may use the City’s online zoning map at www.ColumbiaTN.gov to verify the zoning of their property. STRs located outside these permitted districts may still qualify for nonconforming status only if a Nonconformity Application is submitted along with a Short-Term Rental Application by December 31, 2025.

A property may continue operating as a short-term rental if it was in use before April 10, 2025, and the owner remitted required state taxes for at least six months within the 12 months preceding that date. Continued operation remains valid unless the property is sold or transferred, STR use ceases for 30 consecutive months, or the property receives three or more violations of applicable local laws. Eligible owners must still obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit and provide documentation of tax remittances.

Property owners seeking to maintain eligibility must submit all required applications no later than December 31, 2025.

Information on zoning, STR permits, and nonconformity applications is available on the City of Columbia’s official website. For questions, contact Planning & Zoning at 931-560-1560 or visit ColumbiaTN.gov.

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

Gladys Faye Hutchins Fortenberry, 79, wife of retired Command Sargent Major Carl R. Fortenberry, died Friday, November 28, 2025 at Life Care Center of Columbia.

Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home. Visitation will be held at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home from 1 P.M. until the time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date at Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery. 

Donna Faye Sisk Dial, 71, retired receptionist at Dr. Woodard’s dental office and resident of Darks Mill Road in Columbia, passed away on November 28th of 2025, at her residence.

Visitation will be conducted on Wednesday from 4-7 at Oakes and Nichols. A service will be conducted Thursday, 10:00 am at Oakes and Nichols. The burial will follow at Adkison Cemetery in Santa Fe.

Gracie Elizabeth Anglin Lynn, 88, and resident of Columbia, died Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Poplar Estate Retirement Center.

Graveside services will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Sparkman Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home from 11 A.M. until 1:00 P.M on Wednesday. 

James Wilbur “Jimmy” Rodgers, 76, lifelong resident of Columbia, died Monday, November 17, 2025 at his residence with his family by his side.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 7, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Columbia Elks Lodge. 

Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

Vandy Gets First Ten Game Season (WPLN)

Diego Pavia threw for 268 yards and a touchdown and ran for 165 yards and another score to lead No. 12 Vanderbilt to a 45-24 win over No. 18 Tennessee on Saturday.

Vanderbilt secured its first 10-win season with its highest-scoring game against Tennessee since 1923.

“This is one for the record books,” Vandy coach Clark Lea said. “First 10-win team in program history.”

Sedrick Alexander rushed for 115 yards and three touchdowns and Vanderbilt (10-2, 6-2 SEC, No. 14 CFP) generated 582 yards of total offense against its in-state rival while keeping its hopes for a berth in the College Football Playoff alive.

“It’s a great story in college football,” Lea said of his team’s bid for the playoff berth. “To do anything other than allow these guys to compete for it all would be an injustice to the work they’ve done.”

“Well, a lot of people thought I was a fool (being confident in his team against the Vols),” said Pavia. “But, all it takes is faith, and I feel He gave me a vision. He gave me a platform. It felt good to come in and back it up.”

Joey Aguilar threw for 299 yards and a TD for the Volunteers (8-4, 4-4, No. 19 CFP). DeSean Bishop had 97 rushing yards and two scores.

“An extremely disappointing second half led to an extremely disappointing ultimate result,” Tennessee coach Josh Heupel said. “The (defensive) performance here tonight was not anywhere near the standard for Tennessee football.”

The game was tied at 21 at halftime before Alexander scored from 5 yards out midway through the third quarter. The Commodores held the ball for the first 6 minutes, 35 seconds of the third quarter. After a three-and-out by the Vandy defense, Pavia broke free for a 24-yard TD run that gave the Commodores a comfortable lead.

“We went out there a little slow (in the third quarter),” Aguilar said. “You only have so many opportunities. You’ve gotta take advantage of them.”

The win over Tennessee will put some pressure on the CFP committee. Most of the projections have had Vandy missing out when it comes to one of the coveted spots. But a win over the No. 18 team in the country should grab some attention. Vandy has a great story and a star in Diego Pavia — all the elements for a step up to the next level.

Earlier this week, when word got out about Florida’s interest in Vanderbilt’s Clark Lea as its next head coach, the Commodores responded by signing him to a six-year extension. … Aguilar threw for over 200 yards in his 12th straight game. He has over 3,300 passing yards this season, moving past Peyton Manning for No. 4 on Tennessee’s all-time single-season list.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Maury County Public Library is hosting a “Let It Snow Ornament Workshop” on December 5th.

Celebrate the magic of winter with a hands-on ornament making workshop. Kids are invited to create their own winter-themed ornaments to take home.

All supplies are provided—just bring your creativity. To register, call (931) 375-6502.

Maury County Library is located at 1018 Maury County Park Drive, Columbia.