WKOM/WKRM Radio
Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for December 19, 2024
All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
Man Charged With Attempted Murder (MSM)
A Columbia man is facing a series of charges, including attempted first-degree murder, after an alleged domestic incident at his home.
Arrest reports filed with the Maury County Circuit Court Clerk’s office stated that on Monday, Dec. 9, Christan Scott Miller, 30, asked his former girlfriend, Erika Coleman, to watch over his home while he was out of state for work. Coleman reportedly asked another male friend, William Talbott, to be at Miller’s home with her.
Coleman reportedly told police she was in the master bedroom changing clothes when she heard a gunshot from within the home and found Miller in the living room holding a gun.
Miller allegedly pointed the gun at Coleman before moving to a spare bathroom where Talbott lay injured and proceded to shoot him in the head.
Talbott’s condition is unknown at this time.
Miller was booked into the Maury County Jail on Tuesday, Dec. 17 on charges of attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated domestic assault and preventing a call to 911. No bond had been set at press time and Miller was scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 13, 2025.
Tom J. Hitch Closure (Press Release)
Beginning on January 13th, Tom J. Hitch Parkway at Bear Creek Pike in Columbia will be closed to traffic in order to repair the bridge over Duck River. The road will remain closed until the repairs are completed, which is expected to take several weeks.
Mersen Layoffs (WSMV)
A Columbia manufacturing plant is being accused of Grinch-style behavior after announcing furloughs and layoffs during December for a significant part of its workforce.
The Mersen Manufacturing plant announced just weeks before the Christmas holiday that it was set to furlough 80 percent of its workers in Columbia and that 25 percent of its workforce was permanently laid off as of Dec. 15.
Mersen has made a $64.5 million investment in Maury County since 2019 and opened the Columbia plant in July 2023. The location focuses on the manufacturing of extruded graphite, insulation felt and isostatic graphite that will be used for green technology products used in solar panels, semiconductors and electric vehicles.
At the July 2023 opening, company officials said they had hired nearly 100 employees from the region and planned to hire 50 more in the next 12 months.
In response to the furloughs and layoffs, the workers’ union representing those affecte, the International Union of Electrical and Communications Workers of America, or IUE-CWA, has filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing Mersen of violating federal labor law and betraying previous commitments to the community.
According to the union, the cuts follow a successful unionization vote by Columbia workers seeking fair pay, safer conditions and job security for temporary workers. The union claims that rather than negotiate in good-faith, Mersen hired anti-union law firm Jackson Lewis and soon after announced the furloughs and layoffs — a move the union says is clear retaliation.
“The timing is no coincidence,” said Orvin Caraballo, an IUE-CWA organizer. “Layoffs during the holidays hurt families the most. It’s a ruthless tactic to break workers’ resolve, and it’s illegal. To add insult to injury, Mersen is ramping up its hiring of temporary workers — a move that only deepens the betrayal felt by longtime employees.”
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development also administered a $505,000 infrastructure grant for the project, which was awarded to Maury County, not Mersen. The union’s filing also seeks to have the company repay all or part of that grant funding.
Mersen, which operates 35 plants worldwide and 10 in the United States, reported $1.27 billion in global sales in 2023, with $486 million coming from North America, according to union officials.
“This is a betrayal of Tennessee workers and taxpayers,” added Carl Kennebrew, President of IUE-CWA. “The public invested in Mersen with the promise of good, stable jobs for this community. Instead, Mersen is slashing jobs right before the holidays while raking in record sales and increased profitability.”
Mersen issued the following statement to Main Street Maury:
“Mersen acquired and reopened the Columbia, Tennessee facility in 2019 with the objective of increasing its graphite production capacity. Our commitment has remained strong over the past five years.
“The electric vehicle market is currently experiencing a slowdown across the U.S. and major industrialized markets that also impacts the semiconductor market. This has resulted in a significant drop in demand for isostatic graphite. As a result, we have had to make some difficult decisions and rationalize our industrial footprint, especially in connection with our isostatic production process.
“On November 25, we put 47% of our employees on a one-week furlough, and less than 10% remain on furlough until January 5, 2025. These employees retain their benefits and position with the Company, but they are on an unpaid absence. It is our understanding that those who are out on furlough for more than one week are eligible to collect unemployment benefits.
“In addition, we have ceased operations of the isostatic process in Columbia, and we are consolidating U.S. operations of this process back to the St. Marys, Pennsylvania location where workers are represented by IUE-CWA Local 502.
“The consolidation resulted in the discontinuance of temporary labor, and the elimination of regular positions at the Columbia location. Less than 20% of the regular positions at the Columbia facility were impacted.
“Mersen notified the union regarding the consolidation and resulting layoffs and we have repeatedly offered to meet and bargain with the union. In our meetings with union representatives, we made an offer of severance for impacted union workers. We look forward to continuing our discussions with the union representatives to assist the affected employees as they transition to new opportunities.
“These changes are business decisions strictly due to current external market conditions. Operations of the two other product lines (extruded graphite & insulation products) are continuing at the Columbia site.
“Mersen is strongly committed to its facility in Columbia, which remains the company’s planned location for future expansion of isostatic production consistent with the market. Mersen intends to continue to invest in Columbia in 2025 and the years to come.”
SHPD Collecting for Fallen Officer (MauryCountySource)
The Spring Hill Police Department is collecting items to support fallen McNairy County Sheriff’s Sergeant Rick Finley, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on December 14, 2024. Sgt. Finley leaves behind a wife, a two-year-old child, and an unborn child (both children are boys).
If you would like to help the Finley’s, SHPD will be taking donations until Friday January 3rd at 199 Town Center Pkwy (lower level of City Hall, left-hand side of the building) from 8 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. Please note that no one will be there to collect the items on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day. Item’s requested:
– Clothing for a newborn or up to 6 months old (boy).
-Huggies diapers (newborn or size 6)
-Huggies natural wipes
-Pajamas or maternity clothes for his wife (size 2xl)
If you have questions about their specific needs, please contact SHPD Officer Mike Stewart at mstewart@springhilltn.org.
Concert to Benefit BGCSCT Toy Drive (MSM)
At 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20, Gary Chapman and Friends will play Christmas carols in a free concert at the Mulehouse in Columbia. Attendees are asked to bring toys, which will be donated to the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee’s toy drive.
Families with children are encouraged to attend the event, where hot cocoa will be served and Santa Claus will be present.
Chapman sings Christian contemporary music and has received five Dove Awards and seven Grammy nominations over the course of his career.
Peter Poon Kwong, Director of Marketing & Communications for BGCSCT, said the organization was exciting about the opportunity the concert will provide.
“This is pretty new; we were approached by The Mulehouse. It will benefit us as they’ll be collecting toys for our toy drive,” Kwong said.
BGCSCT has operated its toy drive for over 25 years, Kwong added, and has helped provide toys to thousands of children in that timeframe.
“Every year we serve close to 1,600 kids,” he said.
Maury Regional Screenings (Press Release)
Maury Regional Health encourages you to be aware of the recommended screenings for preventive care and to work with your personal physician on a wellness plan that includes proper nutrition, exercise and screenings. The following are some of the most common screenings for adults that should be conducted regularly:
All adults
Blood pressure
Cholesterol
Diabetes/high blood sugar
Colorectal cancer screening (ages 45 and older or earlier if recommended by a physician)
Women
Mammogram (ages 40 and older)
Cervical cancer screening
Men
Prostate cancer screenings
Additional screenings may be recommended by your physician based on factors that include physical condition, symptoms or family history. Annual physicals with your primary care provider are recommended. If you do not currently have a primary care provider, visit MauryRegional.com/FindADoctor for a complete listing of physicians on our medical staff.
When it comes to cancer or heart disease, early detection saves lives.
Maury Regional Health offers convenient and non-invasive organ and vascular screenings to detect cancerous growths, circulatory system blockages and stones. These self-pay, self-referral screenings offer peace of mind or early detection at an affordable cost — no physician’s order required.
These screenings are recommended for those with an increased risk for developing diseases of the organs such as heart, kidney or liver disease, stones or certain cancers. Maury Regional Health recommends all adults consult with their primary care provider about their risk factors and the appropriate screenings to schedule.
Call 931.380.4044 to schedule the screenings of your choice at one of Maury Regional Health’s southern Middle Tennessee imaging locations.*
ORGAN SCREENINGS
Maury Regional Health offers a variety of organ screenings to help you and your physician monitor and identify potential health issues, such as stones, cancers and conditions that could lead to heart attack and stroke.
A physician’s order is not required to schedule the following ultrasound and CT organ screenings, though it is recommended that patients discuss screenings with their physician before scheduling. Payment should be made at the time of service as most insurance providers do not cover these screenings. To schedule, call 931.380.4044.
Ultrasound Screenings
Ultrasound organ screenings examine the:
Gallbladder
Kidney
Liver
Pancreas
Thyroid
The cost is $60 per ultrasound screening or $225 for all five exams bundled together.
CT Screenings
Coronary artery calcium scoring is a heart screening used to detect calcified plaque in the vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the heart wall and can diagnose early coronary artery disease. If coronary artery disease is discovered in its early stages, treatment and monitoring of this disease can save your life. This screening is recommended for those who have a family history of coronary artery disease and are at a moderate risk for heart attack. The cost for this screening is $70.
Cancer, gallstone and kidney stone screenings are offered for individuals 50 and older. Two CT scans are available for $100 each, including:
Lung/chest area
Abdomen/pelvic area
These self-referral CT screenings are offered at Maury Regional Medical Center, Marshall Medical Center and Wayne Medical Center.
HEART AND VASCULAR SCREENINGS
Vascular screenings use ultrasound technology to detect blockages in the circulatory system. These screenings are designed for individuals who have not previously been diagnosed with vascular disease and do not require a physician’s order. Following the screening, results will be sent directly to the patient to share with their physician, who may order follow-up testing.
Maury Regional Health offers the following vascular screenings:
Peripheral Artery Disease: a screening of the lower extremities for plaque build-up, which is often an indicator of heart disease
Stroke: a screening of the carotid arteries in the neck to detect plaque build-up, which could lead to a stroke
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)*: an exam to pinpoint weakened areas of the vessel that serves as the main channel of the circulatory system
The cost is $45 per study or $100 for all three exams bundled together. Payment should be made at the time of service as most insurance providers do not cover these screenings. To schedule, call 931.380.4044.
*Medicare Part B covers an AAA screening as a one-time benefit for recipients who are considered at-risk based on family history, age and smoking history. Ask your physician about this screening and whether you qualify.
CT Lung Screening
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of death. The main cause is smoking.
CT lung screenings can detect abnormalities in the lungs before any signs or symptoms may appear. Maury Regional Health offers CT lung screenings with a physician’s order for those who qualify. Learn more about these screenings and whether you may be a candidate for a screening at MauryRegional.com/Lung.
Local Holiday Shopping Guide (Press Release)
The holiday season just got a whole lot brighter! For the very first time, Maury Alliance is excited to present the Local First Holiday Guide — a one-of-a-kind guide to holiday shopping, dining, and celebrating in Maury County, exclusively featuring Local First participants!
This isn’t just another holiday shopping list—it’s YOUR ticket to making a real impact on our community by supporting the incredible small businesses that make Maury County unique. From beautiful gifts to remarkable experiences, the Local First Holiday Guide has everything you need to make this season special and give back to the place we all love.
What’s Inside the Local First Holiday Guide:
For Her – Discover the best local gifts for the women in your life
For Him – Find the perfect presents for the men in your life with unique gifts from Maury County’s finest shops.
For Kids – Shop local toys, books, and activities that will light up the faces of your little ones this holiday season.
Plan an Experience – Looking for a memorable gift? Plan a local experience, perfect for creating lasting memories.
Where to Eat – Explore Maury County’s best local eateries
Where to Relax – Treat yourself or someone special to a moment of relaxation with local spas and relaxation experiences.
Holiday Hours – Don’t miss out! Check out the holiday hours for all your favorite local businesses so you can plan your shopping accordingly.
How You Can Be a Part of This Exciting First Year:
Download the Guide today and start your local holiday shopping!
Share the Guide with your family and friends and spread the word about this incredible initiative.
Download the guide by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.
And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…
Jeanette McMurtry Kelly Bridges, 94, resident of Columbia, died Monday, December 16, 2024 at her residence.
Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church. Entombment will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 12:00 PM till 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church.
James Oliver “Jimmy” Pantall, 83, owner and operator of Pantall Farm and resident of Columbia, died Sunday, December 15, 2024 at his residence.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, December 22, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Northview Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Lasting Hope Cemetery with military honors provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 4:00 PM till 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home, and on Sunday from 1:00 PM till the time of service at Northview Church of Christ.
Charlotte Eugenia Lentz Morrow, 88, resident of Columbia, died Saturday, December 14, 2024 at her residence.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time, and will be announced at a later date. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.
Joyce Ann Hickman Dugger, 83, resident of Spring Hill, TN died Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Mt. Pleasant Rehabilitation Center.
Funeral services will be conducted Monday, December 23, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Monday, December 23, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.
Mrs. Debbie Rose, 63, lifelong resident of Columbia, passed from this world on Sunday at Maury Regional Medical Center after a sudden illness. A Memorial service is planned for December 29 at Williamsport United Methodist Church. Visitation will start at 2:00 PM with a celebration of life to follow at 3:00 PM.
And now, news from around the state…
Foreign Land Ownership in TN (Tennessean)
A law prohibiting some foreign land ownership in Tennessee might not have the sweeping implications some investors feared it would.
State officials recently wrote in court filings that the law, passed this year, will not block prohibited foreign businesses or individuals from continuing to own land in Tennessee if they acquired it before the law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
The law prohibits residents of China, Iran, North Korea and other countries subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations from owning land in Tennessee. Investment firm Walton Tennessee and a group of individual plaintiffs, two of whom lived outside the U.S., feared they would have to divest themselves of hundreds of acres of land across Tennessee and sued the state on Oct. 31.
In its lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, Walton Tennessee argued the company and its investors would be "automatically made criminals" as soon as the law takes effect. It also argued the law is practically impossible to comply with given the length of time it would take to sell off property, and the company said it feasibly could not just buy out any foreign investors to comply with the law.
But the Tennessee Attorney General's Office told the court on Dec. 5 that the plaintiffs won't be affected by the law. Although the state law says that a prohibited party "owning an interest in agricultural land in this state on or after January 1, 2025, commits a Class A misdemeanor," the attorney general's argument in federal court states otherwise.
The new law does not "preclude Prohibited Parties or Prohibited Businesses from continuing to own interests in agricultural land that they acquired before January 1, 2025," according to the state's filing. Only prohibited foreign parties who buy land on or after Jan. 1 would have to sell it off within two years.
Owners who purchased land before 2025, like Walton Tennessee and the individual plaintiffs, would still have to register their ownership with the state as required under the law.
"They continue to own their land holdings, and the Act will not interfere with their ownership. They will be required to register their ownership interests with the State, but that does not constitute irreparable harm," the attorney general's office wrote.
The attorney general's office also told the court the state would not consider Walton's named "foreign" investors as falling under the law's requirements for other reasons.
Stephen Misch, an American chief physician at a Shanghai hospital, and Alessandro Silvestroni, an Italian citizen who lives in Hong Kong, were among the plaintiffs who invested in Walton.
In a December court filing, the attorney general's office argued the two men would be considered residents of the United States and Italy for the purposes of the law and therefore would not be required to divest their ownership stake.
Walton Tennessee and the individual plaintiffs last week withdrew their request for a preliminary injunction to block the law from taking effect Jan. 1.
Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Zoolumination is back and brighter than ever.
The Nashville Zoo is once again lit up with hundreds of lights and adorned with larger-than-life mythical creatures for the holiday season. Visitors will be able to enjoy a new feature this year, an ice-skating rink, allowing visitors to ice skate beneath the glow of custom, silk lanterns.
Zoolumination is open now and there is plenty of time to enjoy the lanterns. The event is scheduled to run through early February 2025.
Get your tickets at www.nashvillezoo.org/zoolumination.
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