Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 1-29-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for January 29, 2026

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

Closures

Due to the inclement winter weather there are a number of closures for today. Maury County Government Offices will open for business starting at 10:00am today.

Maury County Schools are closed through the remainder of the week.  All extracurricular activities, athletics, and school functions are canceled. Boys and Girls Clubs will not meet at any Maury County Public School during the closure. In our listening area, Williamson County schools are closed today. Additionally, Hickman and Lewis County Schools will be closed through the rest of the week.

Spring Hill Reapproves CIP (MSM)

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen clarified the status of the city’s long-term Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects last week.

The CIP was originally adopted in 2018 and includes 22 projects. Over the past eight years, eight projects have been completed, nine remain underway or not started yet and five water and sewer projects are being addressed separately, as they aren’t funded under general funding. 

In 2019,  a funding source was established for the CIP by utilizing a portion of property tax revenue. The increase and usage of property tax remains in place until all projects are completed. 

“It’s important that BOMA continues to be transparent as to where the 2019 property tax increase is going and to continue to show delivery and completion of the projects,” Mayor Matt Fitterer said in a Facebook post. 

Last week’s vote is touted as helping keep the city’s CIP current and transparent for residents, while ensuring the city stays committed to completing its long-term infrastructure improvements.

Columbia Lawyer Disbarred (MSM)

The Supreme Court of Tennessee has permanently disbarred Columbia attorney Amanda Howell Castillo from the practice of law and ordered her to pay restitution to a former client and all costs incurred to the Board of Professional Responsibility.

The Supreme Court order was effective Jan. 7, 2026. The Board of Professional Responsibility filed a Petition for Discipline and a supplemental Petition for Discipline against Castillo, and the disciplinary matter was tried before a hearing panel on Aug. 14, 2025.

In the two complaints, the hearing panel accused Castillo of violated fourteen Rules of Professional Conduct of which seven were.

In the final hearing, the panel found Castillo’s conduct violated Rules of Professional Conduct: (RPC) 1.3 (diligence), 1.4 (communication), 1.16 (declining or terminating representation), 3.2 (expediting litigation), 3.4(c) (knowing violation of an obligation under the rules of a tribunal), 8.1(b) (bar admission and disciplinary matters) and 8.4(g) (misconduct).

Castillo must comply with the requirements of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 9, Section 28, regarding the obligations and responsibilities of disbarred attorneys. She did not respond to Main Street Maury’s requests for comment.

MRMC Receives Women’s Choice Awards (MSM)

Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) received six 2026 Women’s Choice Awards®, earning designation as one of America’s Best Hospitals™ in Patient Safety, Women’s Services, Cancer Care, Knee and Hip Replacement, Orthopedics and Obstetrics. The Women’s Choice Award is the only national designation that combines clinical performance, patient satisfaction and women’s health care preferences to identify top-performing hospitals.

“These recognitions underscore Maury Regional Health’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care and maintaining the highest standards of patient safety,” said Maury Regional Health CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “We are honored by the trust our community places in our experienced physicians, nurses, technicians and dedicated team members who strive to provide exceptional, patient-centered care to women in our community and their families every day.”

MRMC was recognized with six separate Women’s Choice Awards in the following areas of specialized care among more than 4,600 U.S. hospitals reviewed:

• Best Hospitals for Patient Safety: Top 2 percent for patient safety in surgical practices and infection prevention

• Best Hospitals for Women’s Services: Top 5 percent for the highest standards for comprehensive women’s services

• Best Hospitals for Cancer Care: Top 6 percent for range of treatment services and low infection rates

Best Hospitals for Knee & Hip Replacement: Top 9 percent for surgical outcomes and patient-centered care

• Best Hospitals for Orthopedics: Top 9 percent for exceptional care tailored to women’s health and healing

• Best Hospitals for Obstetrics: Top 9 percent for quality care and patient experience

Maury Regional offers an array of services in obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics and cancer treatment as well as advanced services in other areas of specialty care. To learn more about the services Maury Regional Medical Center provides and its medical staff of more than 500 providers, visit MauryRegional.com/OurServices.

TDEC Lifts Mt. Pleasant Consent Order (MSM)

After two decades of infrastructure improvements, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) lifted a consent order against Mount Pleasant’s wastewater system on Dec. 16.

In 2002, when the consent order was first entered, the City of Mount Pleasant amended its Facilities Plan to incorporate new techniques like wastewater lagoons and spray fields. From 2004-09, $8 million was borrowed from the State Revolving Fund and used it to rehabilitate the city sewer system, build a lagoon and spray fields, which came online in 2009, and divert excess wastewater to them.

In July 2010, TDEC and the city entered into a second consent order. In 2012 TDEC approved the city’s second plan to use the lagoons and spray fields as a temporary solution, while ultimately planning to move away from them.

A third consent order in 2018 settled on a new treatment plan, and at the beginning of 2020 the city started to use a “membrane bioreactor” system that more effectively filtered out the substances capped by state permits: ammonia, nitrogen, phosphorus, suspended solids and biochemical oxygen demand. Lagoon return operations have also been managed in accordance with regulatory requirements.

“Since the new treatment plant came online, the city has experienced no NPDES permit violations,” City Manager Philip Grooms said. “As of Dec. 16, 2025, TDEC confirmed completion of all consent order requirements and closed the case.”

City employees have continued to work hard at rehabilitating the Mount Pleasant sewer system, and they recently completed a Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study (SSES) funded by a planning grant.

Regular business

The Mount Pleasant City Commission made several civil-service appointments during its January meeting. At the beginning of the meeting, new officers Trever Roberts and Halkawt Chamsayidi were sworn into the Mount Pleasant Police Department.

The commission appointed new members Katie Martin to the Communication Committee and Jim Brown to the Historic Zoning Commission. They also reappointed the members of several other city committees, including John Hunter and Jennifer Graham to the Planning Commission, Bedford Smith to the Recreation Commission, and all other current members of the Beer Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Communication Committee and Historic Zoning Commission.

Mayor Bill White announced that on Jan. 8, Gov. Bill Lee and TDEC Water Resources Chief April Grippo asked him to serve on a study that would look into regionalizing projects to get water supply. The study would cover the costs to access and treat water from different sources, possible regional solutions and how to fund them, asset optimization, annexation concerns, remediating water loss, and resolving inter-municipal differences in rates and regulations.

“It’s quite an honor to be asked by the governor to serve on that board,” the mayor acknowledged. “What’s going on [with Mount Pleasant’s own water supply]… doesn’t just touch the city of Mount Pleasant; if we think about all the people we serve, it goes far beyond the city limits.”

Budget Director Shiphrah Cox reported that the city’s new accounting firm is almost done with its annual audit. They’re on their third auditor in three years: small firms are either getting bought out by larger ones, fleeing the burdensome new regulations on municipal audits, or charging higher fees as their competitors disappear. Commissioner Mike Davis and White confirmed that this is happening to many small cities and firms, and the state has no plans yet to start capping audit fees or respond in another way.

City Manager Grooms announced a public hearing on Feb. 19 at 5:30 p.m., where public commenters can weigh in on the stormwater utility and changes to the zoning ordinance. The Communications Committee meets on Feb. 30 at 5:30.

The city commission also adopted the county’s Emergency Operations Plan, changed the scope of Civil and Environmental Consultants’ improvements to their water system, and heard public comment questioning a resolution (not on the agenda) to pay Visit Mount Pleasant $25,000 to advertise local businesses. Visit Mount Pleasant intends to highlight enterprises and seek placements beyond Main Street, on which community development has previously focused.

“The intent is… to get away from [only Mount Pleasant’s] Main Street… [to] all the businesses in town,” said Mayor White.

“A lot does come out of that program… [like] tourism, trying to get people here to have functions,” added Vice Mayor Willie Alderson.

Mid-State Classic to Return (Press Release)

Columbia will once again take center stage for collegiate softball as the Midstate Classic returns on March 10, 2026, marking the 11th year the City of Columbia has hosted the popular tournament at the Ridley Sports Complex.

Presented by the City of Columbia, the Midstate Classic has grown into a marquee spring sports event, drawing athletes, fans, and families from across the region. Known for its competitive matchups and welcoming atmosphere, the tournament showcases all levels of the game—from high school to NCAA Division I.

The 2026 schedule features three games throughout the day:

• 10:00 a.m. – Columbia Central High School Lions vs. Spring Hill High School Raiders

• 1:30 p.m. – Columbia State Community College Lady Chargers vs. Calhoun Community College Warhawks

• 5:30 p.m. – University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers vs. Austin Peay State University Governors

City Manager Tony Massey said the tournament reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to athletics and community engagement.

“The Midstate Classic remains a signature event for our community,” Massey said. “It reinforces Columbia’s role as a destination for high-caliber athletic competition while providing residents the opportunity to experience exceptional sports programming close to home. Columbia always looks forward to hosting the Lady Vols softball team.”

Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan noted that the event has become a signature event for Ridley Sports Complex.

“This softball showcase is a point of pride for our department,” Reagan said. “From high school athletes to nationally recognized collegiate programs, the Midstate Classic delivers a full day of exciting softball and an exceptional fan experience. We expect strong attendance once again.”

Mayor Chaz Molder emphasized the broader impact of the tournament on the community.

“Hosting the Midstate Classic for the eleventh year speaks volumes about Columbia’s reputation as a sports-friendly city,” Mayor Molder said. “Events like this strengthen our community, support local tourism, and create memorable experiences for families and fans throughout the region.”

Gates will open at 7:30 a.m. on the day of the event. General admission is $10, which includes access to all three games. Complimentary ADA transportation will be available before, during, and after the tournament to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

Tickets are available now at columbiatn.gov.

For additional information, call (931) 388-8119.

Maury Alliance Legislative Breakfast (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance and Breakfast Rotary for their Annual State Legislative Breakfast. The event will take place on Friday, February 27th from 6:45-8:00am at the Memorial Building located at 308 West 7th Street in Columbia. Senator Joey Hensley, Rep. Scott Cepicky, and Rep. Kip Capley will be on hand to update the public and answer their questions related to legislation that affects us.

Admission is $25 for Chamber Members and $30 for non-members.

*If you are a member of Breakfast Rotary you do not need to purchase a ticket for this event.*

For more information, visit www.mauryalliance.com.

Night of Hope for The Well Outreach (Press Release)

The Well Outreach is excited to share that Night of Hope 2026 will take place at Worldwide Stages on Saturday, February 28th at 6:00 PM. This year’s event will feature a catered dinner, a live auction, and a concert by Christian artist and Dove award winner Big Daddy Weave.  It promises to be an unforgettable evening of celebration, generosity, and community. 

Get your tickets by visiting www.thewelloutreach.org.

Maury Business Guide (Press Release)

Explore why Maury County is an ideal destination for businesses, professionals, and families in the latest issue of Maury County Business! This annual guide highlights our vibrant community, thriving business scene, and enviable quality of life. Whether you're a prospective resident, entrepreneur, or site selector, this must-read publication offers insights into what makes our region special.

Here’s how you can connect:

• Read Online: Visit [livability.com/maury-county] to explore unique stories about living, working, and thriving here.

• Print Copies: Contact the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance located at

Join us in celebrating and sharing Maury County’s remarkable qualities, and thank you to our advertising sponsors for making this possible!

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.

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…

Marjorie Imogene “Jean” Wilson Childrey, passed away at her home in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on January 20, 2026, following a short illness.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday, January 30, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Highland Park Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Thursday from 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home and Friday from 12:00 P.M. till the time of service at Highland Park Baptist Church.

Sandra Sue Moore Haywood, 88, died Sunday, January 25, 2026 at her residence in Columbia.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Luke United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Monday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home and Tuesday from 10:00 AM until time of the services at the church.

Now, news from around the state…

Cothran to Challenge Capley (Tennessean)

Former House Chief of Staff Cade Cothren picked up a qualifying petition to run for state House earlier this month, mounting a challenge to Rep. Kip Capley, R-Summertown.

But he'll have an $80,000 fine to pay the state before the qualifying deadline on March 10 if he wants to get on the ballot.

Tried, convicted and Trump-pardoned Cothren was issued an $80,000 civil penalty by the Tennessee Registry of Election and Campaign Finance last week for misleading the state about his actions associated with the Faith Family Freedom Fund PAC in 2020, after Cothren left the legislature. During that campaign cycle, the PAC paid for campaign ads attacking then-Rep. Rick Tillis during his reelection campaign. The Registry board began auditing that PAC after a complaint alleged that the PAC illegally coordinated with the campaign of now-Rep. Todd Warner, who unseated Tillis that year.

Cothren resigned from his post as top aide to House Speaker Glen Casada in 2019 after extensive reports that he solicited sex via text messages from interns and lobbyists and admitted to using illegal drugs inside the legislative office building.

Capley told the Tennessee Holler this week that he is "not worried at all" about the possibility of Cothren's challenge.

Charge for non Real-ID Travel (WSMV.com)

Starting Feb. 1, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce a new policy for people traveling without a REAL ID.

Starting Sunday, passengers will have to pay a $45 fee in order to use an alternative identity verification system.

“TSA Confirm ID” will be an option for those without a REAL ID.

Passengers can use the alternative ID for a 10-day travel period.

Additional steps and information can be found on the TSA’s website, www.tsa.gov.

A REAL ID is one that is specifically vetted by the DMV.

Other authorized forms of ID include a passport or a Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Card.

The REAL ID law was signed over 20 years ago but was not implemented and enforced until May.

Trump Praises Blackburn (Tennessean)

President Donald Trump inched closer toward endorsing Sen. Marsha Blackburn in the 2026 race for Tennessee governor.

"Marsha Blackburn is an incredible person," Trump said Jan. 28 at his Trump Accounts Summit. "She's running for governor of Tennessee. I'd love her not to. I begged her not to. I have to say, they're lucky to get you. You're a talent and a great person and you've been with me all the way. You're a very special person."

Blackburn has positioned herself as a loyal ally to the president, making her support a central theme of her campaign. She has highlighted what she says are his efforts benefit Tennessee and featured the president in her debut campaign advertisement. 

Blackburn launched her campaign Aug. 6. Blackburn's campaign staff declined to comment to Knox News on Jan. 28 about Trump's comments and a potential presidential endorsement, but Blackburn told Knox News on Oct. 27 she was working for Trump's backing.

Blackburn is running in the GOP primary against U.S. Rep. John Rose and state Rep. Monty Fritts. Rose also is supportive of Trump and benefited from the president's endorsement in his 2024 reelection to the House.

Rose, who represents parts of Middle Tennessee including Cookeville, has supported Trump in his campaign. He voted against certifying the 2020 election results, where Trump lost to Joe Biden. But he's also worked to shift the focus of his campaign around Tennessee issues.

Rose told Knox News on Jan. 28 that voters' endorsement matters at the end of the day.

"I don't think Tennesseans are interested in being told how to vote. If they are, certainly my opponent has endeavored to get many important people who have been entrusted by the voters of this state with making decision or them. They've got their advice but I think it's the voters of Tennessee who get to decide, and will decide, based on the vision," he said.

Trump also has said encouraging things about Rose throughout the campaign, he added.

Conservative leaders across the state called her "Governor Blackburn" months before she even made her announcement as a candidate. She spent millions of dollars from her federal accounts paying consultants and traveling across the state to prepare.

"My vision for Tennessee is to make Tennessee what Tennesseans what they want it to be," Rose said. "The only way you can do that is by listening to them. Tennesseans are competent to decide who their governor should be. They don't need the help of their state representative or state senator to figure that out."

Trump endorsements have made a difference in previous Tennessee elections. 

U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty received Trump's endorsement before he entered the 2020 GOP primary. That race brought national attention as the candidates and their allies exchanged negative ads leading up to the election. 

Though Hagerty's opponent, Manny Sethi, gained momentum, Hagerty earned 50.8% of the vote while Sethi garnered 39.4% in the 15-way primary.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

For the first time ever in 50 years, ACM and CMA celebrated duo The Bellamy Brothers will headline the Ryman Auditorium on Thursday, June 25. \

Fifty years ago, on January 3, 1976, The Bellamy Brothers released “Let Your Love Flow,” a song that would become one of the most enduring hits of the era. The track gained rapid momentum following its release and, during the week of May 1, 1976, reached No. 1 on the U.S. charts, solidifying its place in music history. The success of the song helped establish The Bellamy Brothers on an international level.

The upcoming Ryman performance will celebrate the legacy of the remarkable career of David and Howard Bellamy. With a journey that has spanned genres and decades, The Bellamy Brothers remain a vital force, continuing to connect with longtime fans and new audiences alike.

Find tickets www.ryman.com here.