Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 8-12-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for August 12, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Spring Hill Shooting (WKRN.com)

A teenage boy died Sunday night after he was found shot in a Spring Hill apartment complex parking lot.

The Spring Hill Police Department said it responded to a reported shooting at the Grand Reserve apartments in the 3000 block of Commonwealth Drive around 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 10.

Officers discovered a 17-year-old in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. According to law enforcement, the teen was brought to a local emergency room, where he was later pronounced dead.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim, mourning this unimaginable loss,” SHPD wrote on social media.

Authorities said the shooter left the scene in a vehicle, which was described as a blue or dark-colored sedan with damage to the right front bumper.

Officials announced shortly after 9:45 p.m. that detectives were still at the scene, collecting physical evidence and interviewing potential witnesses.

If you have any information about Sunday night’s incident, you can submit anonymous tips by visiting www.springhilltn.org.

Hit and Run Investigation (MauryCountySource)

The THP is investigating a hit and run crash where a pedestrian was struck and killed in the area of 1190 Hwy 7 in Maury County.

The incident occurred around 8:20 pm on August 7, 2025.

Anyone with information is asked to call the THP Lawrenceburg Dispatch Center (800) 736-1759.

Bear Creek Pike Collision (MauryCountySource)

Maury County Fire Department crews responded to a head-on collision with entrapment Thursday morning in the 900 block of Carters Creek Pike.

The call came in at 11:07 a.m., and units from Rescue 21, Air 21, OPS 20, and Deputy 20 were dispatched. Upon arrival, responders found one occupant trapped inside a vehicle. Rescue 21 quickly removed a door to free the individual, while Maury EMS provided patient care and transport.

Both drivers were reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.

Columbia State Near Completion of Lewisburg Campus (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College has announced the near completion of improvements at its Lewisburg Campus, funded through a $500,000 award through a Tennessee Department of Health grant initiative provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The funds were awarded through the CDC’s Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases (ELC) grant initiative. The initiative, part of the largest investment in communicable disease preparedness in the nation's history, was created to support COVID-19 mitigation and strengthen infrastructure to combat future public health threats.

ELC funding went to state and local health departments nationwide to serve as the foundation for public health infrastructure and to increase the country’s ability to tackle infectious disease threats on both a national and local level.

“Investing in our campus facilities reflects our commitment to fostering a safe, accessible and resilient learning environment for all students and community members,” said Allie Carpenter, Columbia State Lewisburg Campus director.

Columbia State received the maximum award available to improve safety, accessibility and emergency preparedness at its Lewisburg location — upgrades that help support both students and the Marshall County community.

“Due to the investment of the state of Tennessee and the CDC, Columbia State has made upgrades to achieve our mission as well as ensuring that the college is well-positioned to support Tennessee in combating any future public health threats,” said Dr. Tim Hallmark, Columbia State associate vice president of facility and safety services.

The ELC grant, administered by the Tennessee Department of Health, was designed to help educational institutions prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases through improved air quality, infrastructure for public health events and safer physical environments.

The funds helped provide the following campus upgrades:

• Replacement and upgrades of the HVAC system to support improved air quality, circulation and filtration, reducing the airborne transmission of respiratory pathogens.

• Multi-user restrooms were converted to single-user, ADA-compliant restrooms to reduce person-to-person contact and better support infection prevention.

• Resurfacing, restriping and sidewalk improvements to the parking lot for future drive-through testing or vaccination events. The resurfaced lot can also serve as a rapid response site for the community during public health emergencies.

While these renovations offer long-term facility improvements, each element was chosen for its role in creating a safer, more hygienic environment for students, faculty and the community now and in the event of future infectious disease threats.

“Through this grant from the Tennessee Department of Health, Columbia State has enhanced facilities that align with both the state’s mission and the college’s commitment to being community-ready in support and service,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “These upgrades position us to provide a safe and responsive environment in the event of a public health emergency—though we hope such a situation never arises.”

Columbia State extends its sincere appreciation to the Tennessee Department of Health for this investment and to the Marshall County community for its continued support of the college’s goals across its nine-county service area.

Horse Rescue (CDH)

Many animals don't get a second chance at life like Dove and Sparrow, two horses who were just days away from death before being rescued by a local Columbia youth therapeutic ranch.

Dove and Sparrow have since been on an inspiring road to redemption, one that began when they were discovered in July after their owner had died. Both horses were found severely underweight, covered in rain rot and had other injuries.

Dove, weighing only 582 pounds (40% underweight) and the more critical of the two, also suffered sole abscess caused by a nail lodged in her hoof. Sparrow, weighing 677 pounds (33% underweight), had developed an eyelid tumor and was in critical pain.

Dove's life was saved just by a millimeter, Carissa Ramsdell, the Ranch’s founder and executive director, said.

"If Dove's injury has been a millimeter deeper into her hoof, she would have died. It could have been unrecoverable for a horse."

On July 7, Freedom Reigns Ranch rescued the emaciated equines, who were immediately treated by The Jaeckle Centre, which specializes in the rehabilitation of equine athletes.

A nonprofit specializing in therapeutic treatment of children and young adults, emotional and physical, through interaction with horses, Freedom Reigns Ranch provides specialized courses for children and young adults, shelters 19 rescue horses and has over 80 volunteers on hand.

"Dove and Sparrow’s story powerfully demonstrates what it means for a community to rally together and bring what they can to change a life” Ramsdell said.

“One thing we always try to help teach kids that come here is that they always have something to offer, even when life is hard. As kids help care for the horses, they gain confidence and learn that there is always hope, that nothing and no one is too far gone.”

Ramsdell highlighted that trauma, an experience whether person or animal, takes time to heal.

"We can't heal from everything at once," she said. "It's ok to take it slow. That's what we are seeing first hand in their recovery. It's an inspiration for everyone here."

In less than two weeks since being rescued, Dove has gained 83 pounds and has been fitted with special therapeutic shoes to recover from her hoof damage.

"We're already seeing glimmers of who they’re becoming," a July 15 post from Freedom Reigns Farm documenting the horses' first week of recovery, states. "Dove's sweet and endearing nature begs for all the love and attention she can soak in. Sparrow is smart, charming, and inquisitive. He will undoubtedly be quite mischievous."

Sparrow has since gained more than 100 pounds, with his tumor scheduled to be removed once medically stable.

"He faired a little better than his companion and other than gaining a lot of weight and healing extensive rain rot, his only other challenge is his tumors require twice daily cleansing, which he doesn’t seem to mind," the July 15 post states.

While Dove remains under the Jaeckle Center's care, she is expected to be released in about two weeks, after which she and her companion will be reunited, healthier and ready to gallop once again.

"It's amazing to think that these two thrown-away, forgotten horses just a millimeter away from death, have gotten the best treatment in the nation rivaling elite show horses," Ramsdell said. "It's been a beautiful picture of everyone coming together to save these forgotten horses."

Follow Dove and Sparrow's continued road to recovery at www.FreedomReignsRanch.com or via social media @freedomreignsranch.

Former Athletes to be Inducted into Hall of Fame (MSM)

Led by Manuel Young, Ronnie Pillow, Tim Sewell and the late Fred Sparkman, 76 former Columbia Central athletes will be inducted into the school’s sports hall of fame during ceremonies scheduled for next month.

Young (Vanderbilt), Pillow and Sewell (Tennessee) and Sparkman (North Carolina), who each played collegiately at the NCAA Division I “Power 5” level, are among a dozen former Lion footballers who will be honored. Others from the gridiron include Jody Herbert, Mike Hudson, Romarto Cathey, Kerry Buchanan, Rodney Baxter, Bernis Bailey, Willie Jones and Joey Bishop.

The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday, Sept. 11 at the school auditorium, with the inductees to be recognized on the field during Columbia Central’s football game on Sept. 12 against visiting Marshall County along with the 2024 Hall of Fame class.

This year’s honorees also include:

Baseball – Eric Harris, Ryan Brown, Craig Mullins, Brent Roberts, Todd Bell, Mike Uggla, Russ Bratton, Jason Lovell, Bobby Morgan, and Jason Moates;

Softball – Kristen Cox, Nicole Childress, Tiffany Sanders, Amber Pinkelton, and Missy Bolenbaugh-Harrington;

Boys Basketball – Dwight Mayberry, Rico Alderson, Travis Houston, Meco Childress, Hollis Hampton, Ashley Whittaker, Joey Knight, and Wadale Williams;

Girls Basketball – Wanda Renfro, Kim Cooper, Alex Ross, DeAndrea Bullock-Melvey, Lateria Owens Williams, Keiana Gilbert, Lindsey Wilson Cunningham, and Tabith Napier Harder;

Soccer – Greg Burks, Tim Pogue, Thomas Parkerson, and Megan Fitzgerald-Venable;

Track & Field/Cross Country – John Lewis Fischer, Michael Wood, Rebecca Cline, Anna Kate Chance, and Olivia Todd Owens;

Volleyball – Maya Horner, Fanise Cannon and Son-Jay Baker Morgan;

Golf – Rodney Cole and Mike Whiteside;

Tennis – Molly Shepard and Matt Grimes;

Swimming – Maci Webb;

Legends – James Finney Jr., Frank Thomas, Richard Wagster, Jim (Sonny) Morton, Jerry Haddock, H.O. Porter, Ed Kimes, Tom Robinson, Martin Taylor, Randolph Yokley Wyatt;

Coaches – Mark Pickle, David Collie, Lyn Jeffers;

Contributors – Tony & Gina Wolfe, Bill Marbet, Nancy Cartwright.

Fire Station 1 Opens (Press Release)

The City of Columbia proudly celebrated the grand reopening of Fire Station No. 1 on Friday, unveiling a newly renovated and expanded facility that marks the most significant upgrade to the station since it was originally built in 1978. The ribbon cutting ceremony, held at the station located at 1000 S. Garden Street, marked the culmination of a project years in the making, with planning beginning in 2022 and construction officially starting in 2023. The total investment in the project was approximately $5.17 million.

Joining city officials and community members for the occasion was Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance and State Fire Marshal Carter Lawrence, who participated in the ceremony and offered his support in celebrating this significant milestone for Columbia’s public safety infrastructure.

“This renovation isn’t just about improving a building, it’s about investing in the safety and readiness of our firefighters and ensuring the public is served from a facility that’s as strong as the community it protects,” said Fire Chief Chris Cummins.

The upgraded station includes a number of critical improvements aimed at enhancing both operational efficiency and the working conditions for first responders. The facility now features expanded east and west wings, allowing for increased square footage to support staff and equipment. It also includes separate male and female sleeping quarters, a new kitchen and firefighter lounge, and dedicated administrative office space. One of the most significant additions is an Emergency Operations Center (EOC), built to withstand up to an F4 tornado, ensuring continuity of operations during severe weather events. A new multi-functional training room has also been added, which can serve as an emergency shelter if needed. To improve public accessibility, the station now has a repositioned entrance and expanded parking area, along with five apparatus bay doors to accommodate emergency vehicles.

“This project represents a meaningful investment in our city’s public safety infrastructure and the people who work every day to keep our community safe,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “It’s more than a new look; it’s a renewed commitment to public safety, preparedness, and service. It exemplifies our commitment to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to saving the lives of others. And, it is a significant upgrade for our flagship fire station, which is a flagship fire department in the State of Tennessee.”

City Manager Tony Massey also emphasized the long-term value of the project: “The reopening of Fire Station No. 1 reflects our continued commitment to investing in essential infrastructure that supports the safety and well-being of our community,” he said. 

The reopening of Fire Station No. 1 represents another step forward in the City of Columbia’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality services and facilities that meet the needs of a growing community.

Spring Hill License Kiosk (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has introduced a new Driver License Self-Service Kiosk in the lobby of its headquarters at 800 Hathaway Blvd. The kiosk is open to all Tennessee residents—regardless of county—and offers a convenient alternative to visiting the DMV.

Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the kiosk allows users to:

* Renew a driver license

* Obtain a duplicate license or state ID

* Change their address

* Pay reinstatement fees in full

The kiosk does not accept cash or checks; payment must be made using a credit or debit card.

No appointment is necessary. For more information about the service, visit www.tn.gov/content/tn.

Mayor’s Youth Council (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is now accepting applications for the 2025–26 Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (CMYC). Open to all high school juniors and seniors in Maury County—whether public, private, or homeschooled—the CMYC offers students a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of local government and gain valuable leadership experience.

The program provides students with a behind-the-scenes look at how elected officials and municipal departments serve the Columbia community. Participants will engage with all 12 City departments and tour select municipal facilities, such as the Columbia Police Department, Fire Department and Public Works. Through these hands-on experiences and guided discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of how city services are delivered and how local government impacts their daily lives.

“Columbia is a growing city that values the voice and energy of its youth,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “The Mayor’s Youth Council not only gives students a seat at the table but also empowers them to play an active role in shaping the future of our city.”

Students accepted into the program will attend monthly meetings throughout the school year, typically held on the second Tuesday of each month. Each session will include interactive learning opportunities and direct engagement with city leaders and staff.

“Providing students with a first-hand look at how our departments work fosters meaningful civic engagement,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “The Youth Council helps connect young residents to the everyday operations of city government and strengthens the shared commitment we all have to our community.”

Applications will be accepted from now through August 22, 2025, and must include a completed application form, photo ID, and current high school transcript with unweighted GPA. Selected participants will be notified by September 1.

To learn more and apply, visit the City of Columbia’s website at: www.columbiatn.gov

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

Myra Lorine Dial Young, 82, resident of Columbia, TN, and retired LPN for Dr. Thomas Dake’s Office, passed away Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Life Care Center of Columbia.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Mike Roberts officiating. Burial will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Tuesday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Condolences may be extended online at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

Blackburn Holds Early Lead in Gov Race (TNLookout)

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn holds a significant lead over U.S. Rep. John Rose in the 2026 Republican primary for Tennessee governor, according to a poll released by the conservative think tank Beacon Center. 

The Beacon poll gives Blackburn a 68% to 14% advantage among the 571 Republican voters the group polled from July 27 to Aug. 1. 

The poll was conducted before Blackburn officially announced her campaign at the start of August. Rose entered the campaign in March.

Early polling leads aren’t always an indication of who will win.

When Gov. Bill Lee ran in a five-person Republican primary in 2018, he trailed in polling until the campaign’s final weeks. 

A March 2018 poll conducted by the Washington, D.C.-based Save the Children Action Network, showed Lee with 7% support, trailing two other Republicans with 20% support each. 

Lee is term-limited and can’t run for reelection.

Blackburn has higher name recognition than Rose, who represents a U.S. Congressional district covering parts of middle and east Tennessee, after winning two statewide elections to the U.S. Senate. She’s also a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has not made an endorsement in the race yet. 

Shortly after her 2024 reelection to the Senate, Blackburn was rumored to be interested in running for governor. But she has waited nearly a year, allowing her to use her federal campaign funds for advertisements and to travel the state using that money.

Now that she’s officially entered the race, Blackburn can’t use federal campaign funds in the governor’s race as federal campaign finance laws prohibit the commingling of funds for state and federal races. 

Rose has shown he’s willing to put his personal funds, loaning his campaign $5 million. 

In 2018, the last time there was an open primary for Tennessee’s governor, the candidates spent almost $50 million. 

Memphis City Council member Jerri Green is the only Democrat to announce a candidacy in the Democratic primary. 

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Sunset Rhythm and Vines, sponsored by the Columbia Breakfast Rotary Club, is set to take place at The Mulehouse Weddings (812 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401) on September 13th, 2025, at 7 pm.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live music, community, and giving back at Sunset Rhythm and Vines — the premier annual fundraising event hosted by the Columbia Breakfast Rotary Club!

Enjoy a perfect blend of fun, philanthropy, and rhythm under the setting sun, as we raise funds to support:

OneGenAway

Habitat for Humanity

and tMaury County Yanahli Park Shelter Project