Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-2-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for October 2, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Charges Filed in Wolfe Crash (MSM)

A Columbia man has been charged in connection with a Maury County crash that severely injured celebrity Mike Wolfe and his girlfriend two weeks ago.

Lerone Heads, 76, of Columbia, appeared in Maury County General Sessions Court last week, charged with DUI, vehicular assault and failure to yield resulting in serious bodily injury for allegedly striking the vehicle. Wolfe, a television celebrity with a business in Columbia, was driving on Santa Fe Pike with his girlfriend Leticia Cline as a passenger.

According to Cline’s social media posts, she and Wolfe were driving in a vintage Porsche 356 on Santa Fe Pike when Heads tried to turn left onto the Pike. The posts indicate Wolfe swerved to avoid Heads’s car, but it struck the passenger side of the Porsche. Wolfe reportedly suffered mainly facial injuries, while Cline’s injuries included a broken jaw, sternum and ribs, a collapsed lung and spinal bruising. Wolfe was taken to Maury Regional and Cline was taken to Vanderbilt Hospital, where she remained until Sept. 16 and underwent major surgery, according to the posts.

“Everything that day was perfect, we had no idea what was to come,” Wolfe said in an Instagram post about the crash. “Leticia [was] airlifted to Vanderbilt and [I rode] in an ambulance, in and out of consciousness, right behind her.”

“[Mike] is incredibly lucky, as he broke the steering wheel and could have been impaled by the steering column,” Cline said in her own Instagram post. “[Meanwhile] I still have my teeth… I avoided brain damage, and I am surrounded by an amazing team of doctors, our family, friends, and our pastor. For that, I am deeply grateful.”

“I recently went to see the car; it was more emotional than I could ever imagine. When your life is so close to being cut short, you find yourself recalibrating all that’s important,” Wolfe continued. “God has a plan and I’ve asked Him to shed His light and guide us.”

CPWS Extends Mt. Pleasant Water Agreement (CDH)

Columbia Power & Water Systems, by unanimous vote of the Board of Public Utilities, has extended its partnership with Mt. Pleasant Water for an additional 24 months.

The current agreement was signed in 2023 and allows CPWS to provide 100,000 gallons of water per day, and more as capacity allows, to residents in Mount Pleasant, ensuring water service is not disrupted for those customers.

The agreement will last through Oct. 1, 2027.

“Being good regional partners in our community is something we have been striving to accomplish, and this only continues to prove that we are putting our words into action,” CPWS CEO Jonathan Hardin said.

CPWS and Mount Pleasant Water have been working actively to reduce water loss in Mt. Pleasant, and have made significant strides in that regard, reducing their rolling water loss average by as much as 10%.

“We are grateful for the support of CPWS to help us with whatever we need when it comes to water in Mount Pleasant,” mayor Bill White said. “Having partners who are willing to step up when necessary is a blessing for our community and our county.”

To make space for the expansion of its water treatment plant, the CPWS board also voted to demolish the structure that once housed American Legion Post 19.

The American Legion Post 19 building is located adjacent to the current Water Treatment Facility on Nashville Highway.

A plan was already in place to demo the building, according to CPWS spokesperson Chris Yow.

"It is the site where we will build a 12 million gallon per day treatment facility as part of our long-term water supply project in conjunction with the downstream intake in Williamsport," Yow said.

After clearing all the State Historic Preservation Office requirements, CPWS is now ready to move forward with site abatement and demolition, Yow added in a CPWS media release.

“The American Legion building and site served this community for many years,” CPWS Vice President of Power Ryan Massey said. “Due to its age, maintenance on the building became cost-prohibitive for the organization, and CPWS is proud to honor the site by having it continue to serve Columbia and Maury County with the expansion of our Water Treatment Plant.”

Abatement and demolition processes will be handled by the project’s Construction Manager at Risk for the Long-Term Water Supply Project, Brasfield and Gorrie.

The process is set to begin in the next few weeks.

Battle Creek Middle Volleyball Advances to States (MauryCountySource)

The Battle Creek Middle School volleyball team has captured the regional championship for the second consecutive year, earning a return trip to the state tournament. The undefeated Lady Bears secured the regional title with wins against Siegal Middle School and Oakland Middle School in the regional round, continuing a streak of success that has positioned the program among the top in Tennessee middle school volleyball.

“This Battle Creek Middle School Lady Bears volleyball team is an exceptional group of female athletes,” said Battle Creek Middle School Volleyball coach, Jess Jackson. “This group has worked so hard all year, and their dedication shows on the court. We have several returning varsity players from last year’s team that put in countless hours of work in the off season to come back stronger, as well as some of last year’s key JV players that stepped up to the varsity level challenge. I can’t express how proud I am of every single girl.”

Battle Creek Middle School hopes to build on last year’s momentum at the state level and push for a higher finish after placing 5th last year.

“This is a proud moment for Battle Creek Middle School and our community,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent, Lisa Ventura. “Earning a spot to play in the state tournament is extremely difficult. The fact that Battle Creek Middle School is returning to state, and undefeated, is remarkable! I wish them nothing but success and know they will do well.”

The Lady Bears advance to the 2025 TSSAA Middle School Volleyball State Championship at Brentwood Middle and High Schools in Williamson County, October 9-10. Teams will compete in pool play on October 9 and advance into bracket play on October 10. All participating teams are guaranteed to play both days of the tournament.

Delta Dental Celebrates 60 Years (MSM)

Delta Dental of Tennessee is celebrating 60 years of ensuring healthy smiles by giving back to communities across the state.

The company launched its “60 Moments of Surprise Smiles” — a yearlong campaign of surprise acts of kindness for Tennesseans.

“Reaching our 60th anniversary is a true milestone for Delta Dental, and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by spreading joy across the state we’re proud to call home,” Delta Dental of Tennessee President and CEO Jeff Ballard said. “These moments are about more than giving out treats – they’re about reminding our communities that a healthy smile goes hand in hand with kindness, connection, and joy.”

To kick off the campaign, Delta Dental team members spent the afternoon of Sept. 20, the company’s 60th anniversary, volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.

A few days later, the winners of the Delta Dental & Friends Dinner and Golf Tournament, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, were surprised with a $6,060 donation in their names to St. Jude.

Delta Dental of Tennessee provides dental benefits to more than 1.5 million members with over 2,900 dentists statewide

Delta Dental will share moments of surprise throughout the year-long program @DeltaDentalTN using the hashtag #DeltaDental60.

Battle Creek Mulls How to Spend Funds (CDH)

The Maury County School board is discussing what to do with nearly $500,000 in additional funds following the Battle Creek High School project, and whether it should be earmarked for athletics or instruction purposes.

According to the county's budget, Battle Creek High School's building construction resulted in a $496,994.82 contingency, or money saved. As per the original plan, any additional funds were to be used for athletics at Hampshire Unit School, school officials say.

District 6 board member Sue Stephenson argued that the money could be used for other reasons more universally beneficial to students.

"We have devoted a whole lot of money to athletics, and right now I'd like to focus on instruction, can we be better served ... for something that would benefit all the students," Stephenson said at the school board's Sept. 16 work session.

"If we could use some of the money for instruction, legitimately give additional money to instruction, especially for students that are struggling, I'd like to see if we can do that."

Maury County Public Schools Superintendent Lisa Ventura responded saying there is a "running list of wishes and desires," but the extra money from the Battle Creek project was already planned to be reinvested in athletics, specifically a new sports complex at Hampshire Unit School.

Though there is always a chance to amend the plan, according to officials.

"That school is the last thing to receive something," Ventura said. "I would have to look at whether we have money to finish what we thought we were going to do at Hampshire. I'm not saying we can't look at something more creative, but that will be the will of the board."

Maury County Finance Director Doug Lukonen added that a transfer of funds from athletics to instruction could be possible through an amendment approved by the school board, and in the worst case require Maury County Commission approval.

"The bond is restricted for what it could be used for," Lukonen said. "The freedom is there, but there is a little more compliance you have to do."

District 7 board member Will Sims added that part of the reason the money is marked for athletics is due to athletic funds being used recently to turf fields at Battle Creek. The contingency would act as somewhat of a reimbursement, he said.

"We were originally not going to turf Battle Creek, but since we were doing the other high schools, we felt now was the better time, and it saved money in the long-term," Sims said. "That was the thought process and why we had all originally said to pull it with the thought to put it back in with the overage to finish the building at Hampshire. There are supposed to be plans being drawn currently, but I don't know where that stands, or how much that will be."

Stephenson remained firm in her proposal that the money be transferred into instruction, as feasible with the proper board approval.

"I want to see us take some part of this half a million dollars and put it into instruction," Stephenson said. "I don't know what your figure out of this is needed for Hampshire's amenities ... but I'd like to see us donate something to curriculum."

Maury County School Board Chair Jim Morrison concluded the Sept. 16 discussion saying it is important to uphold the board's past commitments, but other options should be explored if there is additional money in the end.

"If we have told people we are going to do things, then absolutely we should do them, and I also agree with Mrs. Stephenson's point," Morrison said. "After we have finished what we have committed, I do think we should ... get whatever process we need where once this money has expended everything we have committed it to, then we should invest that back into our students."

The Maury County School Board will reconvene for its regular voting meeting at 6 p.m. on Oct. 14.

MRMC Receives Nuclear Medicine Accreditation (Press Release)

Maury Regional Medical Center has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in nuclear medicine from the American College of Radiology® (ACR). The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. Maury Regional Medical Center has been accredited by ACR in nuclear medicine since 2006.

Nuclear medicine is a specialized branch of radiology that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases and to assess tissue function, metabolism and blood flow. This type of imaging may be used to detect cancer, heart disease and other abnormalities within the body.

“This accreditation by the American College of Radiology is a reflection of the innovation and dedication that our imaging team brings to patient care on a daily basis,” said Maury Regional Health CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “I am appreciative of the team’s commitment to excellence, which ensures the communities we serve have access to advanced diagnostic services delivered with the highest standards of quality and safety.”

The ACR gold seal of accreditation is awarded only to facilities meeting specific requirements based on ACR practice parameters and technical standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed.

Nuclear medicine is among a range of diagnostic imaging services offered at Maury Regional Medical Center, including bone densitometry, CT, mammography, MRI, PET, ultrasound and X-ray. Imaging studies are conducted by skilled radiologic technologists with the results interpreted by board-certified radiologists on the Maury Regional Health medical staff.

Nuclear medicine exams are also available at Marshall Medical Center in Lewisburg. To learn more about the services provided at Maury Regional Health imaging locations, visit MauryRegional.com/Imaging.

THP Graduates Troopers (Press Release)

On Sept. 30, Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Jeff Long and Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Colonel Matt Perry welcomed the newest graduating classes of Tennessee State Troopers.

Trooper Cadet Class 925 completed a rigorous 17-week training. Commissioner Long served as the keynote speaker during the graduation ceremony and delivered the oath of office as the graduating class was sworn in. The graduation ceremony was held at the Hermitage Hills Baptist Church in Nashville.

“All 27 of the members of this class that started as individuals, but graduated together today as Class 925,” said Commissioner Long. “I commend them on their tenacity and ability to work together and support each other through this rigorous training program. Congratulations to each one of these cadets who have earned the right to be called a Tennessee State Trooper.”

The Trooper Cadet Class 925 brings 20 years of previous combined military service, four associate’s degree’s, 13 bachelor’s degrees and one master’s degree to the THP.

"Becoming a Tennessee State Trooper is making promise to the people of Tennessee that no matter the hour, no matter the weather, someone will be there to help," said Colonel Perry. He reminded them of the challenges of the job, the split-second decisions that would have to be made, and the risk to their personal safety. He continued, telling the newest members of the Highway Patrol, “Today you join a legacy of service that has stood strong since 1929, and you are now part of a tradition defined by honor, respect, and innovation.”

Trooper Alex Diaz was named the top cadet for Trooper Cadet Class 925 and was presented with the Trooper Calvin Jenks Memorial Award for Excellence for his leadership, work ethic, and academics. The award was named in honor of the late Trooper Calvin Jenks, who was killed in the line of duty in January 2007.   

Columbia Fall Fest (MauryCountySource)

Columbia Main Street is thrilled to announce the return of FALL FEST, scheduled to take place on October 11th from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm in downtown Columbia. 

This event, presented in partnership with Kiwanis of Columbia, promises a day filled with family-friendly activities in the heart of downtown. This community festival includes FREE admission to listen to live entertainment, enjoy a FUN ZONE for all ages, pose in front of fall-inspired photo booths, and paint a mini pumpkin! Additionally, attendees can support local businesses by shopping with artisan-craft vendors, eating from delicious food trucks, purchasing a ticket for the Kiwanis Chili Cook Off or pre-registering to participate in the Miss Maury County FALL FEST pageant. 

This year’s festivities feature the annual chili cook-off by Kiwanis of Columbia. This ticketed experience supports Kiwanis’ local initiatives. Attendees who purchase a ticket will get to taste a variety of chili recipes from local teams and vote for their favorites. Tickets are $12 for adults and can be purchased at the event. 

Kiwanis of Columbia will also host a “FUN ZONE” featuring free face painting, balloon artists, caricature artists, inflatables, and a petting zoo. In addition to the FUN ZONE, WireMasters has sponsored an all ages painting station, where they can pick and decorate a mini pumpkin. 

LIVE Entertainment will light up the FALL FEST stage with performances from talented local artists throughout the day. Starting with Boomerang, playing a mix of pop from the 60’s and 70’s. 46 Story will wrap up the day with a high-energy dance set featuring both current and classic R&B songs.

“Bring a lawn chair and your dancing shoes because you’re going to be singing along and having a great time with each of the bands,” says Kelli Johnson, Columbia Main Street Manager. 

Back by popular demand is the Miss Maury Co FALL FEST Pageant by Britts. This year, the pageant will take place during FALL FEST instead of prior. Early registration is encouraged and can be found by visiting columbiamainstreet.com. 

"We invite all our friends and neighbors to attend FALL FEST this year," said Kelli Johnson, Columbia Main Street Manager. “We are privileged to partner with so many local businesses and organizations that work hard to create memorable moments for those in attendance. We hope that you enjoy the craft vendors, food trucks, the bands, and all the activities for every age plus all the downtown merchants and restaurants who will be open during the event.” 

For more information about the FALL FEST,, please visit columbiamainstreet.com or follow Columbia Main Street on social media. 

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

Willis E. “Sonny” Jones, Jr., 88, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, in Columbia, Tennessee.

Funeral services for Mr. Jones will be conducted on October 3, 2025, at 3:00pm at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family will host a Celebration of Life immediately after the service at Puckett’s Restaurant, 15 Public Square, Columbia, TN.

Alana Jaye Ingram Minor, 72, a lifelong resident of Columbia, died Saturday, September 13, 2025 at NHC HealthCare Columbia.

A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. A private inurnment will be at Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Now, news from around the state…

Governor Makes 7th District Race Endorsement (Tennessean)

In the final days of early voting, dueling candidates in Tennessee's 7th Congressional district rolled out two major endorsements: a rare primary nod from Gov. Bill Lee and a rival endorsement from retired U.S. Rep. Mark Green's ex-wife.

Eleven Republicans are seeking the nomination for the 7th District seat vacated by Green this year. There are 19 candidates on the ballot. Early voting is ongoing, but turnout in the race, particularly in Democrat-heavy Nashville, remains low.

Lee is backing his former General Services Commissioner Matt Van Epps for Congress, announcing his “complete and total endorsement” of Van Epps on Sept. 30.

“Matt Van Epps is the conservative, America First fighter we need representing Tennessee. As a West Point graduate, decorated Special Operations combat pilot, current National Guardsman and former member of my cabinet, Matt has the character and the courage to go to Washington and fight for Tennesseans,” Gov. Lee said in a statement. “In his time as Commissioner, he worked to cut red tape, increase accountability and drive government efficiency. He will stand fully with President Trump, bringing that same results-driven leadership to Congress to defend our conservative values, and fight back against the liberal policies that threaten our way of life.” 

Lee has typically remained aloof during Republican primaries, breaking his silence during state House and Senate primaries last year to support a handful of candidates — including Van Epps’ rival state Rep. Lee Reeves, R-Franklin, who backed private school vouchers.

Green, who vacated the seat in July, is also supporting Van Epps and made several stops throughout the district stumping for Van Epps this month.

But his ex-wife, Camie Guenther-Green, announced this week she's backing state Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Check out the last Cruisin’ the Co-op event of the year at the Cruisin’ the Co-op: Classic Cars & Candy Bars on Friday, October 24th, 2025, from 5-9 pm at United Co-op – Columbia (975 Riverview Lane, Columbia, TN 38401)!

Bring the kids, wear your best costume, and get ready for an afternoon filled with classic cars, tasty food trucks, and tons of fun!

Rev those engines and let’s make some memories! No tricks—just treats!

More information is available on the Cruisin the Co-op: Classic Cars & Candy Bars Facebook page.