Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 4-25-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for April 25, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Student Murder (MSM)

The Columbia Police Department last week announced the arrest of an 18-year-old youth in connection with the reported shooting death of a friend.

In a press release, Columbia police stated that officers responded on Tuesday, April 15, to reports of a shooting on Whatley Street. Jayden Braden, 18, was reportedly found unresponsive and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Braden was transported to Maury Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.

An investigation reportedly linked Alijah Wolflin, 18, to the crime and Wolflin was taken into custody at a Columbia residence. He has been charged with first-degree murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony, reckless endangerment and aggravated assault resulting in death.

Members of Braden’s family told media outlets that Braden and Wolflin had been friends and were close to graduating from Columbia Central High School. The school released a statement, reading in part, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of one of our own. As Lions, we are more than a mascot—we are a pride, a family bound by strength, courage and unity. Today, our pride mourns the loss of a cherished member whose presence brought light, laughter and love to our school community.”

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder released a statement, which read in part, “As a community, we come together in the good times and in difficult times. That is what defines us. That’s who we are. Liz and I are heartbroken by recent events in Columbia, including the loss of life of one who had a lot of life left to live; and for all of those who are impacted by this loss and tragic event — particularly the high school aged population who knew the situation.”

A court date was not immediately available for Wolflin.

City Wraps Up Columbia 101 (Press Release)

The City of Columbia recently wrapped up the second installment of Columbia 101, an initiative designed to give residents an inside look at the workings of local government. Held on April 22nd and 23rd, the program welcomed a fresh group of participants eager to deepen their understanding of city operations. Through interactive sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, and direct conversations with city leaders, Columbia 101 offered a hands-on experience that highlighted how municipal services function and how residents can play an active role in shaping their community.

Mayor Chaz Molder highlighted the program's continued positive impact, stating, "It's truly rewarding to see Columbia 101 continue to provide our residents with an invaluable look behind the scenes of their city government. This initiative is strengthening the vital connection between the City of Columbia and the community, cultivating a spirit of collaboration and shared ownership in Columbia's future."

The recent program, similar to the first, provided attendees with introductions to the city's twelve departments, including Development Services, Fire & Rescue, and Public Works. Participants also had the opportunity to tour key facilities, gaining firsthand knowledge of the dedicated efforts involved in delivering essential city services.

City Manager Tony Massey underscored the ongoing strategic importance of Columbia 101, noting, "Columbia 101 remains a cornerstone of our city's long-term vision for a well-informed and actively involved citizenry. By providing residents with a deeper understanding of our operations and resources, we are empowering them to become even greater partners in Columbia's continued progress and development."

Marketing Coordinator Lexi Dearborn, the program's creator and director, shared her enthusiasm for its continued success, saying, "Seeing Columbia 101 come to life and resonate with so many residents has been incredibly rewarding. This program was built to bridge the gap between local government and the community, and each session reminds me of the power of connection, curiosity, and civic engagement. I’m excited to see it grow and continue to spark meaningful involvement across Columbia."

Feedback from participants in the latest session echoed the positive sentiments of the program. One attendee commented, “The Columbia 101 program is an excellent introduction to the inner workings of our great city. I would recommend that every citizen attend to not only understand the hard work our city personnel and volunteers do, but to find out where you can plug in to help make a better community.”

Columbia 101 will continue to be offered twice annually and remains open to all residents of the City of Columbia and Maury County. Information regarding the next session, will be announced in the coming months. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit the City of Columbia’s website at ColumbiaTN.gov for updates and application details.

Cepicky’s Recess Bill Passes (MSM)

The General Assembly last week approved legislation sponsored by State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, that seeks to improve academic outcomes and student wellbeing in Tennessee public schools by increasing time for physical activity.

House Bill 85 will require school districts to provide at least 40 minutes of recess to elementary students each day, an increase from the current mandate of a minimum of 15 minutes per day and 130 minutes a week. 

“Republicans are working hard to ensure Tennessee students receive the highest quality education in the nation, and providing adequate time for physical activity is essential to delivering on this priority,” Cepicky said. “The evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that increasing access to unstructured, screen-free recess improves academic outcomes, physical health and mental wellbeing. This common-sense legislation is an important step in giving children in the Volunteer State a more balanced and productive school day.”

Recess under Cepicky’s legislation includes unstructured outdoor play for students, with an exception for dangerous weather. It does not include physical education courses or time when students are permitted to use electronic devices. House Bill 85 prohibits withholding physical activity as a form of punishment for students. 

More than 40 percent of Tennessee students were overweight or obese in the 2022-23 academic year, according to a report from the Tennessee Department of Health and the Tennessee Department of Education.

Expanding recess time improves a student’s physical health, academic performance and behavior. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that recess can enhance memory, attention span, concentration, and social and emotional development. Access to recess can also reduce disruptive classroom behavior.

House Bill 85 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk. If signed into law, it will take effect July 1, 2025, to be implemented in the 2025-26 academic year.

Cepicky represents House District 64, which includes part of Maury County. He is chairman of the House Education Instruction Subcommittee.

Spring Hill BOMA Agree To Widen 31 (CDH)

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen kicked off its first meeting with new members by finalizing contracts to two major road widening projects at Highway 31 and Buckner Lane South.

The U.S. 31 widening contract with the Tennessee Department of Transportation, which will be from Duplex Road to north of Thompsons Ridge Road/Buckner Road, included a resolution Monday for the city to commit $892,854 for construction costs as part of its Surface Transportation Program or STP.

According to the resolution, the contract stipulates the city provide 20% of construction expenses to the project, with the STP funds covering the remaining 80%.

"Every year, the city receives funds from the federal government for the Surface Transportation Program," Spring Hill Capital Improvement Project Manager Missy Stahl said. "With this addition, the city will have committed a total of $6,405,506.28 with the STP funds and the city's 20% match."

In addition, the BOMA also passed a resolution recognizing Thompson's Station for providing a $15 million financial contribution to the U.S 31 project.

"Part of the advancement of Highway 31 is due to $15 million that Thompson's Station is going to add to progress the project forward, and we wanted to take a moment to recognize them," Alderman Vincent Fuqua said.

The Buckner Lane South widening project, which would complete the original widening project which began construction in 2023, encompasses the road from Buckner Road to Duplex Road and was initially broken up into two segments. The north end includes 500 feet north of Wades Crossing, while the southern portion includes everything south of that.

The north project was awarded to Jones Bros. at a bid of $16,186,559.15, with the BOMA approving a final $17,786,559.15 cost, with the city contributing 10% contingency, which was funded utilizing bond proceeds.

Monday's resolution, which will also be funded via bond proceeds, totaled $10,225,697.60, with the city providing a $929,608 contingency and would be contracted to Mastec Civil, LLC for construction services.

"This came in at a significantly lower cost than I was fearful of," Mayor Matt Fitterer said. "To be at $10 million is fantastic."

Vice Mayor Trent Linville asked if by hiring a new company to complete the second portion of the project would cause any issue. Stahl said there could be some overlap in the project, but nothing that would cause any unneeded disruption to its completion.

"We have had a meeting with Jones Brothers and they will be working in conjunction with Mastec, because the north and south are going to overlap just a little bit, and they understand that," Stahl said. "They will work with Mastec well."

Alderman Alex Jiminez asked if the contract would include any penalties if Mastec does not meet the project's turnaround time on the project's completion.

"There are liquidated damages that will be included in the contract if they do not meet their contract date," Stahl responded.

"We charge a certain amount each day that they do not hit it. On the north segment, we did have an extension of time request, which was granted to them, but part of it was the city's fault where it took longer to get the Williamson County approval to remove sceptic tanks on two properties not annexed into the city, and then we had the tornado come through."

Stahl added that pre-construction on the project is expected to begin in about three weeks.

Mr. and Miss CA Named (Press Release)

At the conclusion of each school year, Columbia Academy Upper School faculty select Mr. and Miss Columbia Academy. This is a high honor bestowed upon two students who best exemplify character and attributes consistent with the Columbia Academy mission.

Mr. CA is Jake Ballard, son of Jerry and Christa Ballard. He has been a student at CA for 10 years. Ballard has been active in organizations such as Best Buddies, Youth Leadership Maury, National Honor Society, and Beta Club. Jake was a member of the football, basketball, and track teams. He plans to attend Freed-Hardeman University in the fall, where he will study Civil Engineering and play for the Lions basketball team.

Miss CA is Carolina Johnson, daughter of Ted and Marnie Johnson. She has been a student at CA for 13 years. Johnson is the varsity soccer team captain and plays on the varsity softball team, winning softball state championships in 2021 and 2022. She is an American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Delegate and the Pep Club President. She also serves as the Beta Club Reporter and Senior Class Treasurer. She is a member of Best Buddies, the National Honor Society, and the ACT 30+ Club. She is one of our school ambassadors and a life group co-leader. Johnson was crowned the 2024 Homecoming Queen. She will be attending the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the fall, majoring in Elementary Education.

CSCC Announces New Coach and Hosts Central Students (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College announced Chris Leggett as the new head coach for the Lady Chargers basketball team.

Leggett’s arrival at the college made an immediate impact on both of Columbia State’s basketball teams. After serving as the assistant coach for both the men’s and women’s programs during the 2024–2025 season, he stepped into the interim head coach role in January 2025 and led the Lady Chargers to a second-place finish in conference play. He also played a key supporting role in guiding the men’s team to both the regular season and conference tournament championships.

“We are excited to have Chris take the helm of the Lady Chargers Basketball program,” said Katie Willingham, Columbia State athletic director. “He has done an outstanding job as an assistant coach for both the men’s and women’s teams, and his leadership as interim head coach was seamless and steady. Chris brings passion, experience and a true commitment to our student-athletes. We can’t wait to see the future of Lady Chargers Basketball under his direction.”

Leggett, a Meridian, Mississippi native, earned his bachelor’s degree in university studies and health and human services from the University of Mississippi in 2021.

Prior to Columbia State, Leggett spent three seasons as the assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the men’s basketball program at Fort Valley State University in Georgia. His coaching journey also includes a season at Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi.

“We are so grateful that Coach Leggett has decided to join us in this role," said Cissy Holt, Columbia State vice president for Student Affairs. “We know that he is going to do amazing things. He already has done some amazing things. So, congratulations! We welcome you and look forward to the 2025-2026 basketball season.”

Leggett has a strong track record of player development and academic support. He has coached nine all-conference athletes, including: two conference players of the year, one defensive player of the year, one offensive player of the year and one freshman of the year. He had also maintained a 95% graduation rate among seniors. Teams under his leadership have captured both regular season and tournament conference titles.

“My goal is to build a culture where hard work, discipline and accountability are the standard—both on the court and in the classroom,” Leggett said. “When players believe in each other and commit to the process, winning becomes the byproduct.”

In other Columbia State News…Columbia State Community College hosted the Lion Nation Meets Charger Nation event on March 18 where students from Columbia Central High School came to the Columbia Campus to explore the campus and their educational futures.

During the event, eleventh and twelfth-grade students were greeted by several divisions in the Jones Student Center. Representatives from divisions included: Business and Technology; Health Sciences; Written, Oral and Digital Communications; and Humanities and Social Sciences; and others attended to help inform students of different degree and program opportunities.

“This was an exciting time for Lion Nation and Charger Nation!” said Yolanda Ogilvie, Columbia State enrollment recruiter. “Columbia State provides a great starting point for success, and we want them to know about the opportunities right here in their own community.”

The event also allowed students the chance to tour Columbia State’s campus.

A student who attended the event said she learned new things about the college, as well as options she didn’t know she had before.

“Very helpful. Opened my eyes to more opportunities here on campus and made me interested in more things,” said Jorja Walker, Columbia Central High School twelfth grade student.

For more information about Columbia State, including campus tours, information sessions and enrollment, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/campustour.

Maury Alliance Gives Back to Schools (Press Release)

Maury Alliance is excited to announce a special opportunity to support our schools during Teacher Appreciation Week through the Local First Gift Card program!

From April 28 – May 9, a portion of every Local First Gift Card purchased will be donated to the school that buys the most cards.

Here’s How It Works:

1. Purchase a Local First Gift Card

2. Select your school at checkout (online orders can select during pickup)

3. The school with the most purchases will receive a donation!

This is a simple way to give back to our educators and support local businesses at the same time. Please help spread the word—share this opportunity with your school's parents, teachers, clubs, and community groups to boost your school's chances!

Thank you for supporting local and making a difference in our schools!

Learn more by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.

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

Regina Lynn Bain Cheek, 71, retired bookkeeper, and resident of Columbia, died Saturday, April 19, 2025 at The Reserve at Spring Hill.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Morton Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Friday, April 25, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

And now, news from around the state…

Ascension St. Thomas Opens New Facility on M’Boro (Press Release)

Ascension Saint Thomas and Lifepoint Rehabilitation, a business unit of Lifepoint Health, are excited to announce that they have received state regulatory approval of a Certificate of Need to construct a new 40-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Murfreesboro.

The new hospital will be located on Kennedy Drive, adjacent to the Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford hospital campus. The partners anticipate breaking ground later this year and opening the hospital in 2027.

“This new rehabilitation hospital complements our advanced clinical programs and reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding access to comprehensive care throughout Middle Tennessee,” said Fahad Tahir, president and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas. “As Rutherford County continues to grow, so too does the need for specialized services closer to home. This facility will ensure more patients can receive the intensive rehabilitation they need in a modern, healing environment, right in their own community.”

This will be the second rehabilitation hospital operated through a joint venture partnership between Ascension Saint Thomas and Lifepoint Rehabilitation. The partners also operate Ascension Saint Thomas Rehabilitation Hospital in Nashville.

“This decision by the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission is further affirmation of the community need for increased access to specialized rehabilitation care in central Tennessee,” said David Stark, chief operating officer, Lifepoint Rehabilitation. “This facility will enable us to care for more medically complex rehabilitation patients locally and serve patients in a facility wholly designed for their care and recovery. We look forward to breaking ground on Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Rehabilitation Hospital.”

Upon completion, Lifepoint Rehabilitation will manage day-to-day operations of the hospital, which will provide intensive nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and speech pathology services for adults recovering from conditions such as stroke, neurological disease, brain or spinal cord injury, and other debilitating illnesses or injuries.

Gas Prices (MSM)

Tennessee gas prices declined for the third week in a row, falling two cents, on average, over last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.70 which is a penny more expensive than one month ago but 54 cents less than one year ago.  

“Gas prices across the state once again moved lower over last week. Tennessee also currently has the second least expensive state gas price average in the country, and we are only two cents more expensive than Mississippi – the cheapest state in the country right now for gas prices,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. 

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Live music is a spring and summer staple, and Mt. Pleasant will celebrate another year of its Music on the Porch series starting this weekend.

Music on the Porch will run every last Saturday of the month through October at various locations and historic homes.

This weekend's kickoff will take place starting at 6 p.m. at The Graham Home, 106 Pleasant Street.

This month's featured artists include Cole Nichols at 6 p.m. and Austin Bohannon at 7 p.m., along with food options from Loosewheels food truck and Rocketship Ice Cream.

All Music on The Porch events are also free and open to the public.

Follow Mount Pleasant Music on Facebook for all upcoming shows.