Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-23-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for September 23, 2025

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

We start with local news…

13 Year Old Hit and Run (MauryCountySource)

Spring Hill Police are investigating a crash that left a 13-year-old injured after colliding with a white SUV Saturday evening.

The crash happened around 7:35 p.m. at the intersection of New Port Royal Road and Bern Drive. Police say the SUV left the scene traveling east on Bern Drive.

Anyone with information is urged to submit an anonymous tip through the city’s website or call Spring Hill Police dispatch at 931-486-2632 and ask to speak with a supervisor.

Spring Hill Fire (MauryCountySource)

An alert neighbor helped prevent major damage after spotting black smoke coming from a Spring Hill home’s garage Saturday afternoon.

Spring Hill Fire Department crews arrived in under four minutes, with Engine 61 deploying an attack line while Battalion Chief Garza forced entry through the front door to rescue the family dog. Additional crews from Truck 63, Rescue 64, and Engine 64 searched the home, provided ventilation, and conducted overhaul.

The fire’s cause remains under investigation but has been linked to a possible lithium-ion battery failure.

While firefighters were committed to the blaze, a motor vehicle crash occurred on I-65 at June Lake Boulevard. The Williamson County Rescue Squad responded to that emergency, while Columbia Fire Rescue and Maury County Fire Department provided coverage across Spring Hill until SHFD units cleared the fire.

Officials also thanked Williamson Health EMS, Spring Hill Police Department, and Williamson County ECOM for their assistance.

Police Looking for Hit and Run Offender (MSM)

Columbia police are seeking the public’s help in finding the vehicle and driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision.

Just before 5 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11, the Columbia Police Department responded to Tom J. Hitch Parkway, where they found a pedestrian in the road near the River Highlands Apartments. Upon arrival, officers found Teresa Nelson, 63, deceased at the scene. The driver of the vehicle involved had apparently fled, leaving Nelson in the roadway.

Detectives determined that Nelson was last seen at her residence at approximately 4:30 a.m. Emergency services were notified of the incident at 4:50 a.m., establishing a narrow window of time in which the fatal collision and the driver’s flight took place.

The Columbia Police Department, with assistance from the Tennessee Highway Patrol, is actively investigating this case, and detectives urge anyone with information to contact Columbia Police. They released dash cam footage to the media, showing a white station wagon or truck that might have been the one that struck Mrs. Nelson, in the hope that it might lead to new information.

The Columbia Police Department extends its deepest sympathies to Teresa Nelson’s family and loved ones, as well as to all those affected by this tragedy.

Community members with information are asked to contact the Columbia Police Department at (931) 388-2727, by email at safetips@columbiatn.gov or through direct message on the department’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/columbiapdtn.

Charlie Kirk Vigil (CDH)

The response to the assassination death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was recognized by hundreds of citizens who turned out Sunday, Sept. 21 at the city's downtown square.

The impromptu event, which was spearheaded by local mother Ryleigh Delk, was spawned because despite the worldwide response to Kirk's Sept. 10 assassination, Columbia had not yet organized its own tribute.

"I was just really moved by Charlie Kirk's death and how it affected me," Delk said. "I saw nobody around here had done anything, and so I figured I would just jump into action and do it to honor him. I felt like the Lord was tugging at my heart to honor him."

While the majority of Sunday evening's crowd were citizens and Kirk supporters, several city, county and state leaders also attended the event.

Maury County District 2 Commissioner Eric Previti said, while the event was initiated by a private individual, it was something the county and city wanted to support.

"It's great that we worked together with the city of Columbia and putting the county and city together," Previti said. "It's great to see all these faces out here and I am looking forward to packing this all the way back out to Carmack [Boulevard]. This is a blessed evening and a great event."

State Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, added that Kirk's death has had an impact in many ways across the nation, and has created unity.

"It's great seeing the response here and so many people celebrating his life, and not just in Maury County but all across the country where they are having these rallies," Hensley said. "And there's been no rioting, no buildings destroyed, no cars overturned. Everybody is just celebrating his life, and I'm just happy we can be here to also celebrate it."

The event consisted of multiple speakers, music, a service and a candlelight vigil.

The Well Church of Columbia Pastor Chris Brown, who led the Sunday service, said Kirk's death has brought a profound effect in ways he couldn't have imagined.

"Charlie was truly one of a kind, and there will never be another Charlie Kirk, and we will never fully comprehend the courage that Charlie took, week in and week out, to go to the darkest places, set up a table with no cheat sheet, no cheat notes and invite very public and challenging conversation about the things in life that matter most," Brown said.

"Never in our lifetime have we seen one single event result in so much public honor."

Brown continued saying that at the heart of Kirk's work during his life was his devout faith.

"Charlie repeatedly said this and he said this on record, 'The most important thing is winning as many souls to Christ as possible, and the second most important thing is to secure religious freedom so that we can keep doing the first most important thing,'" Brown said.

"It is important for you and I to realize that what happened and what is happening is not political, it's spiritual. The rage against Charlie is much less political in what he is saying, but that it's Biblically rooted in truth."

District 8 Commissioner Gabe Howard added that the event was not about politics, but celebrating a life of a man who focused more on maintaining core values, faith and family.

"So many times, we can get focused on this idea of political this or political that," Howard said.

"Tonight was about unity and hope for our community. It was about honoring a life that tried to go around the world talking about the truth, and I hope more than anything that tonight that's what we deliver, a night of truth.

"We are here tonight because of Charlie Kirk's voice and impact, but more than that we are here because he reminded us of something eternal."

Pipeline to Cost Billions (TNLookout)

A pipeline supplying water from the Cumberland River to the fast-growing Maury and Williamson counties is feasible, but it could cost up to $1.9 billion in 2025 dollars, according to a feasibility study released this week by the Mallory Valley Utility District.

The study examined the projected costs, needs and construction timeline for approximately 30 miles of pipeline that would connect the Harpeth Valley Utilities District, which draws its water from the Cumberland, to the water utility in Columbia by 2033.

The pipeline is one of several pathways under consideration to provide reliable, long-term water supply for southern Middle Tennessee. More than 250,000 residents in the area are currently served by water withdrawn from the Duck River, the most biologically diverse freshwater river in North America. Recent bouts of drought paired with growing water needs for an expanding population and industrial developments are ramping up pressure on the Duck and the dozens of species it supports.

Gov. Bill Lee issued an executive order in November creating the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership — a panel of state and local officials, utility representatives, and conservation group leaders — to explore ways to balance the river’s preservation and drought management with the region’s increasing water needs.

The partnership met Thursday and is expected to meet again on Nov. 4 before releasing its first interim report on Nov. 20. The partnership’s final report and recommendations are expected in December 2026.

The feasibility study began in March and was funded by the Mallory Valley Utility District, Maury County Water System, City of Mt. Pleasant Water Department, Columbia Power and Water Systems, and the City of Spring Hill.

The study presents estimates for two alternatives: one 54-inch steel pipeline or two 42-inch steel pipelines (which, though more expensive, builds in redundancy in the case of interruptions). The pipeline would require two pump stations capable of moving up to 60 million gallons of water per day.

The pipeline would be built either within or near existing Tennessee Valley Authority property easements. While it would impact around 200 properties, no residents or businesses would be displaced, the study states.

The total estimated cost for the new infrastructure is between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion, according to the study. 

The study did not provide specific estimates for the cost of the pipeline to ratepayers. The Harpeth Valley Utilities District, which would treat and deliver water to the pipeline, reported that it was not able to estimate its service charges until the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completes its study of the Cumberland River Basin in 2026. 

Operation and maintenance of the pipeline would cost an estimated $6.2 million for the first year of operation if the pipeline initially provided 35 million gallons of water per day. The pipeline would be designed to serve up to 60 million gallons of water per day. 

Depreciation costs, or the amount charged per year to amass funds for eventual replacement, would run between $11.2 million and $17.2 million per year, depending on the pipeline option selected and assumed lifespans of 80 versus 100 years.

The estimated costs, which would be covered by each of the utilities in proportion to their demand, could be decreased if the project’s stakeholders seek state or federal grants.

The study estimates a total cost per thousand gallons at $12.08 “for illustrative purposes only,” assuming that the project costs $2 billion (with a 30-year bond at 3% financing and no state or federal support), serves 35 million gallons each day, and the Harpeth Valley Utilities District’s charges were consistent with their current rates.

For the project to be viable, it would need to obtain authorization from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to withdraw water from the Cumberland River. It would also need to secure permitting approval from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, USACE, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

The pipeline proposal is one of several regionalization options under scrutiny. Others include raising the Normandy Dam, increasing intake from the Duck River, or creating a system of reservoirs.

At a Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting on Monday, Spring Hill Water General Manager and Assistant City Administrator Dan Allen cautioned city leaders that many conversations will happen in the next few months, and the city’s posture should be one of collaboration to find “environmentally responsible as well as fiscally sustainable solutions.”

 “It certainly appears to be a feasible project in terms of technical feasibility … the challenge that we see is primarily a funding discussion,” Allen said.

Spring Hill, which contributed funding for the feasibility study, would take about 40% to 45% of the water available in the pipeline, and could thus be responsible for the same proportion of costs, he added.

“Even at $1.7 billion, a 40-45% amount of that … I don’t believe is feasible for our ratepayers. This is where you have to start having a conversation about state assistance as well as federal assistance,” Allen said.

Jason Gilliam, one of the leaders of Columbia Dam Now, a group supporting the reconstruction of the dam on the Duck River, called the pipeline project “ridiculous” at the group’s most recent meeting on Tuesday. The cost, he said, would be too high.

The group reported in July that it is working with U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles to secure congressional funding to fast-track a feasibility study for rebuilding the dam. The initial effort to build the dam that started in the 1960s ran into multiple snags ranging from environmental concerns to ballooning costs to permitting issues and a flawed cost-benefit analysis, according to a Congressional report published in 1980. The dam was eventually dismantled.

It’s not clear what the construction of a similar dam would cost in today’s dollars.

In a statement on Thursday, Gilliam wrote that while the process is slow, there is a “concerted effort” to secure congressional funding for a Columbia Dam feasibility study by the end of the year.

Engineering Systems Open House (Press Release)

 Columbia State Community College’s Business & Technology Division will host an open house on Oct. 14 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Lawrence Campus to announce the expansion of the Engineering Systems Technology program.

“Columbia State is proud to expand this program to Lawrence County, giving local students the same access as those at our Columbia Campus,” said Dr. Mehran Mostajir, Columbia State dean of the Business and Technology Division and assistant professor of Engineering Systems Technology.

The EST program offers students the ability to achieve an Associate of Applied Science degree or technical certificate. The courses prepare graduates for a multitude of careers in manufacturing with an emphasis on mechatronics, robotics, technology, critical thinking and problem solving.

The Engineering Systems Technology program at Columbia State has state-of-the-art, world-class training equipment that helps provide students with the skills needed to work with complex synchronized pieces of equipment. The delivery method for the program will consist of online lectures with labs by appointment, allowing great scheduling flexibility for employed students.

“The Lawrence Campus expansion of our Engineering Systems Technology program will provide students in Lawrence County and the surrounding region with direct access to state-of-the-art training in robotics and advanced manufacturing,” said Richard Urban, Columbia State Engineering Systems Technology program director. “With lab facilities now available at both our Columbia and Lawrence Campuses, we are extending opportunities for hands-on learning and industry-relevant training. This is not just about offering classes—it’s about equipping our community with the skills needed to thrive in today’s technology-driven workforce and supporting the growth of local industry partners.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the EST program is invited to attend the Open House event.

The Open House will be held in Room 211 on the Lawrence Campus, located at 169 Southern Tennessee Lane in Lawrenceburg.

EST is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering.

For more information on the program, please contact Urban at 931.540.2711 or by email at rurban@ColumbiaState.edu. 

Cyber Security Lunch and Learn (Press Release)

Cyber threats don’t take lunch breaks—and neither should your strategy.

Join Maury Alliance and Mapletronics on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, for a Cybersecurity luncheon at Southern Tré Steakhouse in downtown Columbia.

This event is designed for business owners, executives, and IT leaders from organizations with 25 to 150 employees. Whether you’re just starting your cybersecurity journey or refining a mature framework, this lunch-and-learn will equip you with the insights you need to lead with confidence.

What to Expect:

• A catered lunch in a relaxed, collaborative setting

• Expert insights on emerging threats like AI-powered deepfakes, phishing, and supply chain attacks

• Compliance essentials to help you avoid costly fines

• A smarter, simplified approach to cybersecurity

• Real-world strategies to outsmart ransomware and protect your business

Why Attend?

88% of ransomware breaches now target small and midsize businesses. Don’t be an easy target. This luncheon will help you build a game plan that’s practical, effective, and tailored to your organization’s needs.

Location:

Southern Tré Steakhouse – 2nd Floor

117 W 7th St, Columbia, TN 38401

Date & Time:

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Seats are limited.

Reserve yours today and join fellow leaders for a meal that could change the way you protect your business.

Learn more at www.mauryalliance.com.

Athenaeum Candlelight Tour (Press Release)

Please join us at the Columbia Athenaeum Rectory located at 808 Athenaeum Street on Sept. 27 from 7-9PM for their Candlelight Tour. Come learn the mourning processes of the antebellum south and see the beautiful Rectory as people of the 19th century would have seen it, by candlelight! Tickets are $10 per person, cash only. All ticket sales goes towards the perpetual upkeep of Columbia's Hidden Gem. For more information, visit www.historicathenaeum.com.

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

Dee Clinton “D.C.” Uzzell, 82, a lifelong resident of Columbia, died Monday, September 22, 2025 at his residence.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Brother Alan Hughes officiating and military honors provided by Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends Friday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. A private family inurnment will be held at a later date at Philadelphia Cemetery.

Now, news from around the state…

Nuclear Plants Shut Down Unexpectedly (WPLN)

Nuclear energy is usually the Tennessee Valley Authority’s largest source of electricity, but use plummeted this past year as outages plagued all seven reactors owned by the utility.

TVA reported 14 unplanned or maintenance outages over a 13-month period, according to a WPLN News review of data from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. TVA did not respond to multiple requests for comment to verify the number of outages. 

At least 12 of the outages were “forced,” meaning they were unplanned, while two were likely planned for maintenance purposes. 

The longest outage happened at TVA’s Sequoyah Nuclear Plant in Soddy-Daisy, Tenn., which has two reactors. The main generator at the second reactor failed in July 2024. TVA undertook additional nuclear life extension projects during the extended, 11-month outage, and the new generator should last another 40 years, according to TVA spokesperson Scott Fiedler. On June 24, 2025, just one day after TVA brought this unit back online, the entire nuclear plant failed due to a water shortage during a heatwave.

Two weeks later — and on the same day as a forced outage at the Watts Bar Nuclear Plant — TVA’s top nuclear official Tim Rausch resigned. Rausch joined TVA in 2018 and managed the entire nuclear fleet, making $14 million between fall 2018 and fall 2024, according to the utility’s financial filings to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He plans to step down by March 2026, halfway into the next fiscal year.

Occasional nuclear outages are not inherently unsafe. None of the outages were directly related to the nuclear reactors.

“The fact that it’s a forced outage doesn’t mean danger,” Todd Allen, a professor of nuclear engineering at the University of Michigan, told WPLN News earlier this year. “Sometimes it can be as simple as a piece of critical equipment stops working as it normally would.”

But outages are a risk to reliability and costs.

TVA owns seven reactors across the Sequoyah, Watts Bar and Browns Ferry plants.

The plants collectively account for about a fifth of TVA’s total energy capacity. TVA generally keeps its nuclear plants running at all times, except when refueling uranium, so nuclear is usually about 40% of the utility’s total energy use in a normal year.  

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Nashville Zoo is back with its annual fall event Boo at the Zoo, presented by Middle Tennessee Honda Dealers. Boo at the Zoo will run nightly from October 17 through November 1 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Guests can expect fall-themed scenes, trick-or-treating, special animal shows, a pumpkin patch, a dedicated Day of the Dead event on the final night, and more. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased on Nashville Zoo’s website at www.nashvillezoo.org.