Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-19-26
WKOM/WKRM Radio
Southern Middle Tennessee Today
News Copy for October 19, 2026
All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.
We start with local news…
School Board Passes 10 Commandments Option (CDH)
The Maury County Board of Education has passed a resolution allowing the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every Maury County public school.
The approval was made by a 9-2 vote during the board's Oct. 13 meeting.
Resolution 2026.01 stems from the Tennessee General Assembly's Public Chapter 924 of the Public Acts of 2026.
Effective July 1, 2026, the legislation authorizes local boards of education within the local education agency to display the Ten Commandments, the first sentence of the second paragraph of the preamble to the Declaration of Independence, as well as the preamble to the United States Constitution in a prominent location within a school building.
District 11 board member Kathy Mikula, who motioned for the resolution's approval, described the intent of the state legislation as "of historical education purposes."
"It is a historical literacy endeavor to help students become familiar with the truths of the founding fathers of the United States of America who believed these documents were and are essential for good governance," Mikula said. "It authorizes the public schools of Tennessee upon approval by us to display historical documents that have informed the development of law, government and civic institutions in the state of Tennessee and the United States of America."
District 6 board member Sue Stephenson, who cast one of the two opposing votes, said that while she was "very much" in support of the resolution, there was also a five-page memorandum issued by the MCPS attorney Joshua Hogan that brought up many concerns, such as the potential for future litigation.
"I think it really covered all of the bases that we need to be concerned about and that we need to consider before we take any action on this," Stephenson said. "Given all the information in [the memorandum], I just can't move forward with this today.
"Whatever action the state Legislature has taken, it does not negate our liability."
District 3 board member Jamila Brown, the other opposing voice on the matter, agreed with Stephenson's concerns.
"I know we have insurance and whatever we need to cover a lawsuit, but ... I would definitely be concerned about having multiple lawsuits," Brown said. "And I love the Lord and would be the first person to admit it. I am all for prayer back in school or if you want to walk in the door and rub a Bible, I'm all for that ... but I think it's something that we need to hold off on."
Hogan said he was not aware of any current pending lawsuits in other Tennessee counties that were considering or had passed similar resolutions.
"What I will say is there is a state law and it is up to each board to enact whatever they think appropriate," Hogan said. "So, any other lawsuit is just that, something on its own facts. Yes, litigation is always possible, but I wouldn't base a decision on any other potential lawsuit on different facts."
City Awarded $1Million for Bear Creek Pump Station (Press Release)
The City of Columbia has been awarded an additional $1 million in grant funding from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) through the State Water Infrastructure Grants (SWIG) Program to support improvements to the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station. The funding was awarded through a competitive statewide grant process, underscoring the strength of Columbia’s application and the importance of the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station Project to the community’s long-term infrastructure needs.
The City was originally awarded $4.8 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding through the State of Tennessee for wastewater infrastructure improvements. The additional $1 million competitive SWIG grant award brings the total state funding under the grant contract to $5.8 million, providing additional resources for critical wastewater infrastructure improvements in Columbia.
“Investing in infrastructure is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a City,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “This additional grant award represents another important investment in Columbia’s future and helps ensure we are maintaining the infrastructure necessary to serve our community for years to come.”
The additional $1 million will be directed toward the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station Project. This major infrastructure investment serves portions of downtown Columbia, the Bear Creek corridor, and the interstate area.
“The new Bear Creek Pike Pump Station advances a strategic plan objective established by the City Council in 2022 to protect the long-term integrity and reliability of the City’s sanitary sewer system,” said Assistant City Manager/CFO Thad Jablonski. “From the outset, the City successfully pursued the maximum available grant funding to reduce the financial burden on our ratepayers.”
Over the years, the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station had experienced repeated flooding, creating reliability and maintenance concerns. The City is addressing this by relocating the pump station outside the flood zone and modernizing its equipment.
“Relocating and modernizing this pump station will provide our department with even more reliable, efficient infrastructure,” said Wastewater Department Director Donnie Boshers. “These improvements will strengthen a critical part of our wastewater system and help us continue providing dependable service.”
The improvements will enhance service dependability, increase energy efficiency, and strengthen the overall performance and resiliency of Columbia’s wastewater system. It helps ensure the infrastructure can reliably serve residents and businesses in the community for years to come.
“We appreciate the State of Tennessee for recognizing the importance of this project and providing an additional $1 million grant to help our wastewater system,” said City Manager Tony Massey.
Mt. Pleasant Main Street (WKOM Audio 2:28)
On Friday, Mt. Pleasant Main Street held a ribbon cutting to show off all that Mt. Pleasant has become after many streetscape improvements. With more is Front Porch Radio’s Drake Pugh who spoke with State MainStreet Director Kim Parks and Mt. Pleasant Mayor Bill White…
Columbia and Spring Hill Agree on Wastewater Deal (Press Release)
The City of Columbia has approved an inter-local agreement with the City of Spring Hill to participate in a mutually beneficial regional wastewater infrastructure project. The project supports both communities while bringing significant revenue and infrastructure investment to Columbia.
“Spring Hill had a need. Columbia answered the call. Both cities will benefit,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “This agreement is a great example of what can be accomplished when local governments work together in a thoughtful and responsible way. Columbia is able to assist a neighboring community while also securing important infrastructure investment that will benefit our residents for years to come.”
Under the agreement, Spring Hill will fund the full $12 million construction and improvement project. Of that investment, $9 million will fund the infrastructure required to connect Spring Hill’s existing wastewater system to the City of Columbia’s wastewater system. Spring Hill will be responsible for funding and maintaining that infrastructure from its existing treatment plant to the point of connection with Columbia. The remaining $3 million will fund upgrades to Columbia’s Carter’s Creek Pike Pump Station.
“This agreement represents a mutually beneficial partnership and an important investment in Columbia’s wastewater infrastructure,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “Mayor Molder is to be recognized for his leadership in identifying an opportunity for Columbia to help a neighboring community. This is truly a sound partnership.”
As part of the agreement, Columbia will accept between 500,000 and 1.5 million gallons of wastewater per day from Spring Hill for treatment. Service will begin only after Columbia’s new wastewater treatment plant and the required pump station improvements are complete.
“This agreement allows the Department to make strategic upgrades to our collection system, allowing us to continue providing good-quality service to our ratepayers and to be good neighbors,” said Wastewater Department Director Donnie Boshers.
Columbia’s new wastewater treatment plant is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2027. The new plant will increase the City’s treatment capacity to 17 million gallons per day. The expanded capacity positions Columbia well to enter into this regional partnership and support a neighboring community. It will also generate significant new revenue. Spring Hill is projected to pay the City between $21 million and $62 million over 10 years for wastewater treatment, depending on volume.
This agreement reflects Columbia’s continued commitment to responsible infrastructure planning, regional cooperation, and partnerships that create long-term value for the community.
Maury Regional Drug Take-Back (Press Release)
Maury Regional Health, in partnership with the Maury County Sheriff’s Office and Maury County Prevention Coalition, will host a free drug take-back event Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering community members a safe and anonymous way to dispose of expired, unused or unneeded prescription medications.
A drive-thru drop-off will be available in the Building B parking lot on the Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) campus at 1222 Trotwood Ave. in Columbia. Members of MRMC’s security team and the Maury County Sheriff’s Office will collect medications directly from vehicles for proper disposal. The service is free and anonymous, with no personal information required.
The event will also feature family-friendly activities hosted by the Maury County Prevention Coalition and Maury County Sheriff’s Office, including face painting, a slide and a free lunch of grilled hot dogs.
The drug take-back will be held rain or shine. Family activities will be available weather permitting.
“We are pleased to once again offer our community a convenient and safe way to dispose of unused, expired or unneeded medications,” said Scott Nations, MRMC security director. “We encourage residents to take advantage of this important opportunity.”
Proper disposal of unused or unwanted medications can help prevent accidental poisoning and misuse while also helping protect the environment.
Only medications in pill or patch form will be accepted. Items should remain in their original containers, if possible. Liquids, needles and sharps cannot be accepted.
For more information, contact the Maury Regional Medical Center Security Department at 931.381.1111, ext. 4327.
Towne Café Featured on Best Of Show (MauryCountySource)
Towne Café in Columbia was featured on the America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow. Filming took place on Oct. 12, highlighting the restaurant’s menu, history and recent rebrand.
The restaurant, located at 1201 North Commerce Street in Columbia, was previously known as Towne Coffee & Cuisine. Owners David and Betsy Wood changed the name to Towne Café to better reflect the business’s evolution from a coffee shop into a restaurant, where food now accounts for nearly 85% of the menu and business.
As business has grown, the Woods has expanded the menu beyond handcrafted coffee drinks to include homemade breakfast and lunch options with a gourmet twist. They added “Cuisine” to the name to reflect the expanded menu, but customers often did not realize the business was also a restaurant.
The switch to Towne Café was intended to make that identity clearer. The Woods also plan to introduce additional menu options, expand seating and gathering spaces, increase catering offerings and host more community events.
The cafe was featured on America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow, where the owners discuss the business and its role in the community. The episode also features menu favorites, including the Warm Chicken & Bacon Salad and Towne Triple Sandwich.
America’s Best Restaurants spotlights independent, locally owned restaurants across the country. The completed episode will be shared on social media at a later date.
CSCC Announces Performance Series (Press Release)
Columbia State Community College welcomes The Jazz Legacy Project to the Cherry Theater on October 22 as part of the Performance Series sponsored by First Farmers and Merchants Bank.
Through vivid imagery, compelling storytelling and timeless music, this dynamic concert honors the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald. Featuring The Jazz Legacy Project’s outstanding ensemble and acclaimed vocalist/actor Maria Howell (“The Color Purple”, “Hidden Figures”), the evening blends history and artistry in a way that feels both classic and fresh.
“Beautiful musicianship and compelling storytelling come together in this celebration of an American legend,” said Tammy Rosson, Columbia State director of events and alumni relations. “Whether you love jazz or are simply discovering it, this unforgettable performance brings Ella Fitzgerald’s story and music to life in a way that will move and delight you.”
From beloved standards to behind-the-music moments, this tribute celebrates a voice that shaped American music and still resonates today.
“Join us for a night celebrating the artistry of Ella Fitzgerald, the ‘First Lady of Song’,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “Her interesting life and legendary music will combine for an evening of great entertainment. Your attendance helps support the performing arts in our community.”
Tickets for each performance are priced at $35 and include all fees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.
Individuals may also contact the Performance Series ticket line at 931.540.2879.
On performance nights, the box office opens at 6 p.m. near the Kenneth and Ramona Cherry Theater, located in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows begin at 7 p.m. The Columbia Campus is located at 1665 Hampshire Pike in Columbia. Parking is free.
Prior to performances, guests are encouraged to visit the Pryor Art Gallery, located across from the Cherry Theater in the Hickman Building, to see the latest exhibit.
For more information, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.
Maury County Library to Reopen (MSM)
The Maury County Library will cut the ribbon on its renovated main floor at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, celebrating a remodeling project that has been ongoing since October 2025.
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett will speak at the ceremony, along with County Mayor Sheila Butt, County Commission Chairman Danny Grooms and Library Director Meghan Cyr.
“We are excited for the Columbia community to join us in seeing the wonderful updates to our library,” said Cyr. “Thanks to a grant from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development facilitated through South Central Tennessee Development District and matching funds from the County Commission, we have been able to make these much-needed updates to our facility.”
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett will speak at the ceremony, as will County Mayor Sheila Butt, County Commission Chairman Danny Grooms, Library Director Meghan Cyr and other local dignitaries.
The existing library building at 211 West 8th Street was built in 1968, and during a 1994 renovation the Children’s Library was added in the basement. The 2026 renovations to the main level gave the library state-of-the-art technology and new facilities for patrons’ use: a teen center, study rooms, a new classroom, a demonstration kitchen, technology for telehealth appointments, adult education and workforce development classes, and two areas that will accommodate small groups.
The public library grew out of the oldest literary club in Tennessee, which was formed in 1896. Over time the literary club became the Students’ Club and continued to grow, moving from the old Memorial Building to the old Post Office building (the current Memorial Building) to two rooms in the old Columbia Institute.
In 1951, largely through the efforts of the Students’ Club, the library was accredited and became affiliated with the State of Tennessee Library System. Mrs. May Evelyn Bell Stevenson became full-time librarian and Miss Elizabeth Caperton, who had been Students’ Club librarian before the accreditation, served as assistant librarian to the new Maury County Public Library.
And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…
Mrs. Nancy Susan Cromwell Wiser, 80, a longtime resident of Columbia died Friday, October 9, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will be conducted Friday, October 23, at 5:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family will visit with friends from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the funeral home.
And now, news from around the state…
Governor’s Race in the Stretch (TNLookout)
Independent candidate David Hatley loaned his gubernatorial bid another $5 million in September, bringing his total self-funding to $12 million less than three weeks before the November election.
Hatley’s campaign holds a significant cash advantage over his rivals, as the latest state campaign finance reports due Tuesday showed he entered the final stretch of the campaign with over $6.8 million available to spend.
Despite Hatley’s cash advantage, U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, the Republican nominee, is the favorite to win the race, as Tennessee hasn’t elected a Democrat to a statewide office in two decades, and never has elected an independent candidate.
Blackburn’s campaign raised $2.1 million in the reporting period spanning from the end of the August primary election to Sept. 30. She has $3.1 million heading into the race’s final weeks.
Jerri Green, the Democratic Party candidate, raised nearly $1 million this quarter, her largest cash haul in a single reporting period this election. Independent Lauren Pinkston raised around $150,000.
The Choose Freedom PAC is registered in Alabama and disclosed that it received $4.2 million from Choose Freedom Inc., a Massachusetts-based dark-money group. Choose Freedom Inc. formed earlier this year and has spent $22 million in U.S. House and U.S. Senate races, according to The New York Times.
The associated phone number couldn’t receive calls. Choose Freedom’s ads follow a pattern similar to Blackburn’s own attacks on Hatley after she won her primary, as she apparently tries to keep the conservative independent from gaining traction.
President Donald Trump, at a rally Saturday for Blackburn and other GOP candidates in Tennessee, made an explicit plea telling his supporters, “you have to vote Republican.”
At the same rally, Blackburn said she was the “only conservative” in the governor’s race.
Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)
Nashville will host the 2027 Banana Ball Championship League (BBCL) Banana Bowl Championship Game on Saturday, September 25, 2027, at the new Nissan Stadium.
The championship game will feature two Banana Ball teams competing for the league title. Fans interested in attending are encouraged to join the Banana Ball Ticket Lottery List, with additional presale opportunities to be announced.
“We are excited to host the 2027 BBCL Banana Bowl Championship Game in Nashville,” said Deana Ivey, president and CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp in a release. “This event will bring fans from across the country to Music City and give both visitors and locals another opportunity to experience our city, which has built a strong reputation for bringing people together through sports, music, and entertainment.”
Banana Ball previously drew 70,000 fans to Nissan Stadium on May 10, 2025, when the Savannah Bananas faced the Party Animals. The event made Nashville’s current stadium the second NFL venue to host a Savannah Bananas game.
“We are so excited to welcome Banana Ball back to Nissan Stadium,” said Chelsea Lipocky, Tennessee Titans head of stadium revenue. “The Banana Ball teams always put on a show, and we are confident the new Nissan Stadium will be the perfect backdrop for their championship game.”
The new Nissan Stadium is scheduled to be completed in February 2027, with concerts and other major events expected to begin in April. The venue is expected to announce additional events in the coming months.
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