Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-27-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 27, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Wreck on I-65 (MauryCountySource)

At 10:25 p.m. Saturday night, May 24, emergency crews responded to a rollover crash with entrapment on I-65 northbound near the 39-mile marker in Maury County. Dispatchers advised that five adults were inside the vehicle and that it was catching fire.

Responding units included Rescue 21, Engine 30, Squad 32, Deputy 20, and Chief 20. Crews arrived to find flames coming from the engine compartment. Fortunately, all occupants had managed to escape the vehicle just prior to their arrival.

EMS assessed one individual as critically injured, while the other four sustained minor injuries. A ruptured fuel tank prompted the use of foam operations to fully extinguish the fire and prevent further spread.

Emergency responders credited the quick escape and coordinated response for preventing a more serious outcome.

River Rescue at Chickasaw Park (MauryCountySource)

Emergency units were dispatched to Chickasaw Park Friday evening after an adult male with autism entered the water at the boat ramp and was swept downstream.

Two male bystanders witnessed the individual struggling and immediately entered the water in an attempt to rescue him. All three were carried out of sight of the 911 caller, prompting a swift response from multiple agencies.

The three individuals were located several hundred yards downriver, safe and uninjured on a riverbank below a steep ledge. A rescue boat was launched and successfully retrieved all three.

Officials praised the bravery of the bystanders, whose quick actions likely saved a life. Authorities remind the public to always wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets when swimming, kayaking, or boating this summer.

Columbia Dam Group Gaining Ground (CDH)

Efforts to gain support for a Columbia Dam revitalization project continues to grow, though a new grassroots group has emerged to seek an alternate solution to Maury County's water needs.

Last week, Columbia Dam Now, the group pursuing the project as a viable long-term solution, met at the Maury County Water System facility off New Lewisburg Highway to provide updates on the project. This included finalizing the group's nonprofit status, as well as the project being presented earlier this month to leaders in Washington D.C.

Columbia Dam Now Co-founder Jason Gilliam has spent the past two months traveling across the state in an effort to gain support from local leaders and raise awareness of the project's viability as a long-term water solution. His efforts include resolutions approved by the Maury County Commission and Columbia City Council showing their support for the project, as well as six other regional committees and utility boards.

"If we get enough people in support of the project, that will move the needle, and that's what we have been doing, gaining support from all of these commissions and cities we have been going to," Gilliam said. "There is no question that we absolutely have to find a solution for water, and we need to be ahead of this."

Gilliam also addressed concerns dating back to 1983, when the project was forced to shut down due, in part, to its impact on endangered mussel species found in the Duck River.

"Obviously the environmental impact of the dam on the river is a major hurdle because [Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency] is worried about the biodiversity and the endangered species," Gilliam said. "Another is the geological aspects of where this lake is going to be and will it hold water? That's why it is so important we get a feasibility study done."

Gilliam's visit to Washington, he said, was an opportunity to speak with leaders in Congress and see if the study could potentially gain federal support via an appropriation.

"The most important step is we need funding for the feasibility study, because from that we will gleam many answers about this project and whether or not it is something we can see come to fruition," Gilliam said.

"This is a different time, we have a different need, and we have a new administration, and those things culminate to where there is a real possibility that this thing could happen. All of this is pending upon the reality of the study that we need to get done and will get done as to whether or not this project can hold water."

The prospect of resurrecting a halted Columbia Dam project has sparked concerns from a new grassroots group, Don't Dam the Duck.

On Tuesday, the group issued a press release advocating for alternative water solutions and challenging claims being made by the dam's supporters.

According to the release, Don't Dam the Duck lists a myth vs. fact breakdown of various key points it considers false, including:

• MYTH: There will be a large reservoir for recreation (and of course for water storage).  FACT: The reservoir will be significantly drawn down each winter, so that the 12,600-acre artificial lake will become about 4,300 acres surrounded by 8,000 acres of mudflats. 

• MYTH: TVA already acquired 90% of the land needed for the artificial lake that will be formed.  FACT: Only 46% of the land required has been purchased.  Only 50% of the roads and bridges were moved.  There are 14,900 acres of land from Maury and Marshall counties that will still be needed. The people who own these lands, houses, and businesses would once again be forced to sell at below market prices for the dam.  

• MYTH: The dam will hold water.  FACT: Maury Co is full of sinkholes, caves and karst topography.  The reservoir is planned to be right in the middle of the highest concentration of sinkholes and karst topography.  This is a bathtub with the drain open.  TVA knew this, and this was part of the reason they abandoned the project.  Newer, advanced technology detects even more sinkholes and caves than what was known about in 1983. 

• MYTH: The Duck River is 270 miles long and the dam will only affect a small portion of the river.  FACT: 54 miles upstream and 25 miles downstream will be affected.  This has an extremely detrimental effect on the Scenic River designation and on the Endangered aquatic species found in the Duck River (and also animal and plant species on the lands that would be flooded).  

The release adds that Don't Dam the Duck will publish weekly articles with additional information disputing the project on the its Facebook page.

"There is so much more information to be provided to the public.  The Don't Dam the Duck group has all the governmental and scientific research sources, and those links will be on their Facebook site with the weekly articles," the release states.

"In short, all the reasons the dam was stopped in 1983 are still present and viable today. The Duck River needs to be protected, not dammed.  Our community needs affordable, realistic water solutions sooner than the dam would provide."

Image Studios at June Lake (MauryCountySource)

The first phase of commercial development at Spring Hill’s June Lake continues to grow with the addition of Image Studios, a national franchise that offers modern, turnkey salon suites for lease by beauty and wellness professionals.

The planned 7,700-square-foot building will feature 41 individual studios designed for hairstylists, estheticians, and other personal care specialists looking to operate their own business in a professional setting.

Designed by SV Design, Image Studios will break ground in the Fall 2025, with an anticipated opening in the Summer 2026. The new location is the third business to join June Lake’s first commercial district, a 14.5-acre area located at the corner of Buckner Lane and June Lake Boulevard, directly across from the future Hy-Vee grocery store and adjacent to the Saddlewalk neighborhood.

“Image Studios brings a new level of flexibility and opportunity for small business owners in the beauty and wellness industry,” said Don Alexander, Principal at Southeast Venture. “They’re a great fit for June Lake’s commercial district, and we’re excited to continue expanding the mix of services available to both residents and the broader Spring Hill community.”

Owner, Tom Fielder of Brentwood, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Image Studios becoming the first salon suites in the area is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of. Offering beauty and wellness professionals the opportunity to operate their own businesses and be their own bosses is empowering. We look forward to helping create a community where these talented entrepreneurs can thrive and grow.”

Image Studios provides fully furnished, move-in ready studios in a modern, high-end setting. The company is focused on empowering professionals with the freedom to create their own brand and run their business independently—without the overhead of a traditional salon model.

Site work is currently underway within the commercial district, which is expected to include a mix of retail, dining, healthcare, childcare, personal care, and other lifestyle services. Confirmed businesses include Liberty Federal Credit Union and Goddard School, with additional tenants to be announced as the district continues to grow.

June Lake is a master-planned, mixed-use community in Spring Hill spanning more than 775 acres. At full buildout, it will include 3.9 million square feet of commercial space, 2,900 homes, 400 hotel rooms, and an extensive network of greenways, parks, and open spaces, creating a vibrant and connected place to live, work, and play.

For more information about June Lake and ongoing developments, visit junelaketn.com.

Mental Health for Seniors in MRMC Marshall (Press Release)

For nearly 10 years, Marshall Medical Center has helped seniors in the community address mental health challenges through its Senior Life Solutions program. Led by a licensed therapist with the support of a psychiatrist, this intensive outpatient program is designed to support adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief or other emotional challenges.

“Senior Life Solutions has truly been a lifeline for many in our community,” said Todd Fehrman, licensed professional counselor (LPC) at Marshall Medical Center who helps lead Senior Life Solutions. “Our goal is to help seniors regain their sense of purpose and improve their quality of life through mental health counseling and support.”

Senior Life Solutions provides a range of services, including individual, group and family therapy, psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Experts will refer patients to any additional resources that may be helpful. Tele-therapy services are also available, allowing patients to receive support in the comfort of their own homes.

“I had been in therapy before but was pleasantly surprised by this program,” said a former patient. “It helped a lot! The program is worth your time. It’s really changed my life for the better.”

This program is ideal for seniors who have experienced significant life changes, such as the loss of a loved one, a chronic health diagnosis, changes in living conditions, a transition to retirement and more. Many participants report significant reductions in feelings of depression, isolation and anxiety. Other benefits include getting regular health screenings, such as vital signs, and improvements in sleep patterns, weight changes and mood, developing healthy coping skills and having assistance with medication management.

“There’s hope there,” said the former patient. “The way Todd (Senior Life Solutions LPC) interacts with people is welcoming — he’s not talking at you, but with you. He’s a great guide.”

Beyond Tomorrow, a free support group offered by Marshall Medical Center, provides an additional layer of support for seniors coping with depression and anxiety. This group meets on the second Tuesday each month at the Senior Life Solutions office at Marshall Medical Center, offering a safe space to share experiences and learn effective coping strategies. You do not need to be a part of Senior Life Solutions to attend Beyond Tomorrow. 

If you are interested in attending Beyond Tomorrow or working with Senior Life Solutions, please call 931.270.3685. Referrals can be made by physicians, family members or self-referrals.

Baby in the Back Car Hangtags (Press Release)

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett, State Rep. Scott Cepicky, the Tennessee Department of Health, the Tennessee Department of Safety, and AAA today urged parents and caregivers to utilize the free ‘Baby in the Back’ car hangtag program to help reduce heat-related illnesses and deaths in children during the summer months. 

“This program is a small way we can raise awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses and deaths among our youngest Tennesseans,” said Secretary Hargett. “I am grateful to Rep. Cepicky for approaching us with the idea for ‘Baby in the Back’ and for his trust in our office to administer it. Thanks to the Department of Health, the Department of Safety’s Highway Safety Office, and AAA — The Auto Club Group, for joining us this year as we all work together to prevent these tragedies involving children.”

State Rep. Scott Cepicky presented the idea for ‘Baby in the Back’ to Secretary Hargett a few years ago. Since its launch, almost 600,000 Tennesseans have requested the free hangtags.

“This program was an idea inspired by my father, a disabled veteran, who had a placard hanging from his car mirror,” said Rep. Cepicky. “That placard led me work on creating a similar visual reminder to prevent the unspeakable tragedies we hear about every summer. I am honored ‘Baby in the Back’ has become one of the best programs in the nation, and I appreciate Secretary Hargett’s continued partnership as we work to improve safety for families in communities across Tennessee.”  

These serve as a reminder for drivers to always check their vehicles before locking them on hot days. Passersby who see a tag displayed from a vehicle’s mirror may also be prompted to check the vehicle and make sure no child has been left inside.

"Far too many families experience the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child to heatstroke from being left in a vehicle,” Tennessee Health Commissioner Ralph Alvarado, MD, FACP, said. “The ‘Baby in the Back’ hang tag is a simple, life-saving reminder that can make a difference in protecting our most vulnerable passengers. No distraction is worth a life when we can make sure every child gets home safely."

During extreme heat, interior temperatures in a parked car can quickly approach 140 degrees. While hot car deaths involving children are preventable, on average, one child dies from heatstroke in a car every 10 days. In more than half of these deaths involving children in hot cars, a caregiver forgot the child they were caring for was inside the vehicle.

“When a child is left in a car accidentally or you think it’s just a few minutes, it is a situation that can quickly turn into a tragedy,” said Tennessee Highway Safety Office Deputy Director Jason Ivey. “In Tennessee, it is illegal to leave children in a vehicle without supervision for any period of time. It is our hope that these hangtags will be a visible reminder and will prevent a tragic heat-related injury or death from occurring.”

Travel on Tennessee roadways tends to increase during the summer months. Because of schedule changes, parents and caregivers are also more likely to become distracted. The free visual reminder provided by the ‘Baby in the Back’ car hangtag program can make all the difference.

“Every year, despite warnings from safety organizations, children continue to lose their lives in hot cars – a tragedy that is entirely preventable,” said Stephanie Milani, TN Public Affairs Director for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We’re committed to raising awareness and proud to partner with this program to deliver a simple, yet powerful reminder to never underestimate how quickly a hot car can become dangerous for a child.”

Tennesseans can request free hangtags online through the Secretary of State’s office by visiting https://sos.tn.gov/requesthangtags.

Tags will also be available through the Department of Health at all local health departments, and the Tennessee Office of Vital Records. The Department of Safety will also distribute the hangtags at Driver Services Centers, Tennessee Highway Patrol District Headquarters, and upcoming Tennessee Highway Safety Office events, including Car Seat Checkpoints. Drivers can also stop by their local Tennessee AAA branch to pick up a free “Baby in the Back” hangtag while supplies last. To find your local branch, visit: AAA.com/branches.

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…

Sandra Tate Halliday, aged 68 of Columbia, Tennessee passed away peacefully on May 19th .

A visitation will be held in the Parish Hall at St. Peter's Episcopal Church on Friday, May 30 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Graveside services will be held at St. John’s Churchyard following the visitation at 1:00 PM conducted by The Rev. Theodore Edwards, Jr. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Directors are assisting the family with arrangements.

And now, news from around the state…

Mt. Juliet WWII Veteran Turns 100 (Fox17.com)

A veteran from Mt. Juliet, who fought in one of World War II’s most pivotal and grueling battles, is celebrating a major milestone this week- his 100th birthday.

Kenneth Honeycutt, a U.S. Army veteran, served as a master sergeant under Gen. George S. Patton during the Battle of the Bulge, the largest and deadliest battle fought by American forces during the war.

Honeycutt returned home to Middle Tennessee after the war and went on to raise a large family. He now enjoys retirement with his three children, 16 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Friends and family celebrated Honeycutt’s centennial birthday last week, technically May 23, during the Memorial Day holiday, honoring both his long life and his distinguished military service.

TN Statehood Day (Press Release)

To celebrate Tennessee’s 229th Birthday one day early, the Tennessee State Library & Archives, the Tennessee State Museum, and Bicentennial Mall State Park are hosting free, family-friendly events as part of the 2025 Statehood Day Celebration on Saturday, May 31, 2025.

“Statehood Day at the Library & Archives provides a unique opportunity for visitors to view Tennessee’s three original constitutions,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “These documents remain the foundation of our modern form of government, and they are only on display once a year at this celebration. We encourage all to join us for a day filled with enjoyable activities.” 

Statehood Day Celebration events at the Tennessee State Library & Archives begin at 10:00 a.m. Tennessee’s three priceless original constitutions will be presented, displayed, and guarded by members of the Highway Patrol’s Honor Guard during the opening ceremony at 11:00 a.m. The Library & Archives will also host living history interpreters and other family-friendly activities throughout the day, and food trucks will be stationed nearby. Behind-the-scenes tours, including stops at the robotic retrieval system and blast freezer, begin at 11:30 a.m. Tour space is limited, and reservations may be made on the day of the event. The day concludes at 2:00 p.m.  

“The staff at the Library & Archives, the State Museum, and Bicentennial Mall State Park have done an incredible job planning a tremendous celebration for our 229th birthday,” said Tennessee State Librarian and Archivist Jamie Ritter. “We hope families from across Tennessee join us for a fun, educational, and historic celebration on the Bicentennial Mall State Park Campus.”

The Tennessee State Museum will open at 10:00 a.m. to the public and offer highlight tours, Storytime with reigning Miss Tennessee Carley Vogel, period games on the front lawn, and a cupcake celebration. Highlight Tours will be provided at 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Vogel will read in the Children’s Gallery at 10:30 a.m. The cupcake celebration, which will include Vogel reading the Tennessee State poem, “Oh Tennessee, My Tennessee” by Commander William Porter Lawrence, will begin at noon in the Museum’s Grand Hall. 

“The state’s commitment to its history takes center stage here at the foot of Capitol Hill, with Bicentennial Mall, the Library & Archives, and State Museum all connected on one campus,” said Ashley Howell, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum. “If you’re interested in Tennessee history, come see us. Tennessee Statehood Day is our annual opportunity to showcase that commitment and the valuable partnership between our three institutions. We look forward to having everyone join us.”

Park rangers will also offer a guided tour of the Bicentennial State Park at 10:00 a.m. 

To commemorate the day, pick up your “Passport to Tennessee History.” Stop by the Tennessee State Library & Archives, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Visitor’s Center at Bicentennial Mall State Park. Get your book stamped at all locations to receive 10 percent off at the Bicentennial Mall and Tennessee State Museum gift shops.

For more information or a schedule of the day’s events at each location, visit: https://www.tnvacation.com/

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Columbia Parks and Rec will host Summer Splash to kick off the summer season on Wednesday, May 28, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Fairview Park Splash Pad, located at 871 Iron Bridge Rd.. This free community event will feature snow cones, balloon animals, and plenty of bubbles for the kids to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to cool off, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the start of summer.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 3:00 PM to officially mark the opening of the splash pad for the season.