Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 3-18-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for March 18, 2026

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

Tornado Confirmed (CDH)

It has now been confirmed that two tornadoes swept through Tennessee during the latest round of severe weather uprooting trees and damaging homes in Maury and Giles Counties.

The National Weather Service office in Nashville issued a couple tornado warnings during the severe weather March 15, noting at the time that there was a radar-indicated tornado, but no confirmation on the ground. Now, the weather service confirmed there were two EF1 tornadoes.

Survey crews with the National Weather Service began their assessments in Maury County along Highway 43 in Mount Pleasant.

A survey report says the tornado touched down in that area around 10:06 p.m. and covered nearly 17 miles to Spring Hill in 19 minutes. In that time, "many trees were uprooted or had broken limbs along the highway and interstate," the survey report said.

"A few homes and barns had metal roofing blown off," the report said.

The tornado swept through Columbia on its way to Spring Hill damaging homes, the roof of a Columbia State Community College building and the fences at their ball fields. An industrial area along Duck River took the brunt of the tornado next, ripping metal roofing off buildings there, the report said.

The tornado ended along Green Mills Road in northern Maury County, just prior to reaching Spring Hill.

There were no injuries reported.

Not long after the Maury County tornado dissipated, another EF1 spun up in Lauderdale County, Alabama, right on the state line. In 16 minutes and 14 miles, that tornado ripped manufactured homes off their footings sending some into the air, snapped trees and destroyed a chicken farm until it stopped southeast of Minor Hill in Giles County, Tennessee.

No one was injured in that tornado, either.

Ultium Switching Gears (CDH)

Ultium Cells, a Spring Hill-based joint venture between General Motors and LG Energy Solution, will pivot from offering electric car batteries to producing batteries for data centers as part of an additional $70 million investment, the company announced March 17.

The plant, originally part of a $2.3 billion partnership to manufacturer low-cost battery cells known as lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, for EVs will inject $70 million more to produce those same batteries for energy storage systems (ESS) for “grid-scale and data center projects throughout North America,” according to a statement from Ultium Cells.

Despite furloughing its 700 employees in January, those workers are in the process of returning to work “to support the new product line,” the release states. 

"This retooling gets employees back to work in the second quarter of 2026 to produce Energy Storage System cells, but it does not preclude Ultium Cells Spring Hill from producing EV batteries in the future," Ultium Cells spokesperson Katie Brudette told The Tennessean. 

General Motors echoed that sentiment. 

“Ultium Cells shares GM’s long-standing manufacturing strengths, including our flexibility and agility,” GM spokesperson Stuart Fowle told The Tennessean. “This announcement is allowing us to adjust our operations and bring people back to work sooner than originally planned while continuing to meet the needs of GM’s EV customers.”

The facility is expected to produce its first battery between April and June. As a result of soft EV demand and an axed federal tax credit, GM suffered a $7.9 billion write-off in 2025, according to its Form 10-K, the retooling is a way to capitalize on underwhelming EV demand.

“Spring Hill is becoming a key hub in our North American ESS manufacturing footprint which has helped offset slower than expected EV demand,” LG Energy Solution North American president Bob Lee said in a news release. “The explosive growth in energy storage diversifies our customer base and product portfolio and provides tangible benefits to American competitiveness in this decade and beyond.” 

Ultium Cells in Spring Hill will join the LG Energy Solution’s North American ESS network comprising facilities in Michigan, Ohio and Ontario, Canada. 

“By evolving production to meet changing market demands, Ultium Cells is reinforcing its long-term position as a key employer and technology leader in the U.S. battery cell sector,” Ultium Cells CEO Injae Pahk said in a news release.

County Land Use Plan Meeting Planned (Press Release)

A Public Meeting will be held to develop a new Maury County Comprehensive Land Use Plan on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Auditorium and Event Center at Columbia Central High School, located at 921 Lion Parkway, Columbia, TN 38401. The purpose of this meeting is to establish a new Comprehensive Land Use Plan which develops a planning guide for the most appropriate use of land in the unincorporated county. Questions or comments should be directed to the Maury County Building and Zoning Office at 931-375-3003.

First Fridays Coming Back (Press Release)

Columbia Main Street is excited to announce the return of First Fridays in Downtown Columbia. The event runs April through December from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and invites the community to enjoy food trucks, craft vendors, live music, a Game Zone, a Young Entrepreneurs Market, plus shopping and dining with downtown merchants and restaurants.

Each month features a fun theme, and attendees are encouraged to dress up and participate.

• April 3 – Muletown Celebration

• May 1 – Flashback Friday

• June 5 – Luau

• July 3 – USA 250th Celebration

• August 7 – Tie-Dye

• September 4 – Spill the Tea

• October 2 – Fall Fest

• November 6 – Holiday Kickoff & Tree Lighting

• December 4 – Merry Makers Market

New this year, the event area expands to include West 7th Street, the entire Public Square, and one block of South Main Street. The larger footprint allows for better placement of vendors and activity areas, including the expanded Young Entrepreneurs Market for youth 17 and under to sell homemade items, baked goods, or showcase their talents.

LIVE at First Fridays takes place on a new amplified stage-area on South Main Street beginning at 6:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the live music. Also returning by popular demand are acoustic performers playing throughout the downtown district on the streets and inside downtown storefronts and restaurants.

A new dedicated Game Zone will feature yard games and activities for all ages. Columbia Main Street is also partnering with the City of Columbia’s Public Works Department on a recycling awareness project. At each month’s event, guests can help paint a recycling can that will later be placed in the Arts District.

“It’s an honor to continue this beloved community event where residents can gather to enjoy great shopping, food, and a lively downtown atmosphere,” said Kelli Johnson, Columbia Main Street Director. “We encourage everyone to attend all nine First Fridays because each one will be different. Our goal is to help our residents deepen their love for our community by continuing to showcase the best that Columbia has to offer!”

Vendors interested in participating can apply at ColumbiaMainStreet.com on the First Fridays page. The deadline to apply is the 14th of the prior month and all applications are reviewed by the First Fridays committee. Applicants are notified by the 19th of their application status.

Columbia Main Street is a nonprofit organization, and vendor fees help support the initiatives of Columbia Main Street’s plan of work for the Downtown District. For more information, visit ColumbiaMainStreet.com, follow Columbia TN Main Street on Facebook and Instagram, call 931-560-1507, or visit the office at 713 North Main Street, Columbia, TN.

Youth Education Foundation Bestows Grants (Press Release)

The Youth Educational Foundation (YEF) has awarded $20,596 in grants to support innovative classroom projects across Maury County Public Schools (MCPS).

This funding will support 14 projects across nine Maury County public schools, providing educators with additional resources to enhance learning opportunities and bring creative ideas to life for students throughout the district.

The mini-grant program encourages teachers and staff to develop innovative projects that extend beyond traditional classroom activities and help students grow academically and personally. YEF provides funding to initiatives that inspire curiosity, creativity, and deeper engagement in learning.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Youth Educational Foundation for their continued investment in Maury County Public Schools,” said Lisa Ventura, superintendent of Maury County Public Schools. “These grants provide valuable resources that allow our educators to bring innovative ideas into the classroom and create meaningful learning experiences for our students. Our schools and students will benefit greatly from these projects, and we appreciate YEF’s ongoing commitment to supporting education in Maury County.”

YEF is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for students by funding innovative programs, projects and resources that might not otherwise be available through traditional school funding.

“YEF is proud to support the incredible educators and students of Maury County Public Schools,” said Travis Groth, chairman of the Youth Educational Foundation. “These grants represent the generosity of our community and the strong partnership we share with Maury County Public Schools. Together, we have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students’ educational experiences and help create opportunities that inspire learning and growth.”

The spring mini-grants reflect the continued partnership between YEF and Maury County Public Schools to empower educators, enhance classrooms and expand opportunities for students across the district.

Educators submit applications detailing how their proposed projects will support student learning, engagement and development. Selected proposals receive funding through YEF’s competitive grant process.

For more information about the Youth Educational Foundation and its programs, visit www.yefmaury.com.

Civil Air Patrol Recruiting (MSM)

The Maury County Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is opening its doors to local young people ages 12 to 18 for a special informational meeting March 23 at 6 p.m. The event will be held at Connection Church, 201 Bond Street, Mount Pleasant. 

As the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, the Civil Air Patrol offers Middle Tennessee youth a unique opportunity to explore careers in aviation, STEM and emergency services. The upcoming meeting will provide prospective cadets and their parents a “behind-the-scenes” look at the program, which includes five free orientation flights in powered aircraft, leadership training, and search-and-rescue missions. 

“Civil Air Patrol isn’t just a club; it’s a premier leadership laboratory,” said Randall Parker, Major, CAP, Squadron Commander of the Maury County Composite Squadron. “Whether a student wants to become a pilot, an engineer, or simply a more confident leader in their community, we provide the tools and the mentorship to get them there.” 

Attendees will have the chance to meet current cadets, see the equipment used in emergency service missions, and learn about the various scholarships and summer encampment opportunities available through the national program. 

The event is open to youth ages 12–18 and their families. No prior aviation experience is required. 

For more information about the Maury County Composite Squadron contact Major Randall Parker at 561661@tncap.us or 615-957-9191.

Columbia 101 (Press Release)

The City of Columbia announces the return of Columbia 101, an interactive civic engagement program designed to give residents an inside look at how local government operates. After three successful installments, the city is now accepting applications for the next Columbia 101 session, scheduled for Tuesday, April 28th and Wednesday, April 29th. 

Developed to strengthen transparency between citizens and their city, Columbia 101 offers participants a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at how municipal departments serve the community. Over the course of two consecutive days, participants will begin each morning at City Hall before engaging with all 12 city departments and touring select municipal facilities, such as the Police and Public Works Departments. 

“An informed community is essential to a strong city. Columbia 101 helps residents gain a deeper understanding of city operations, encourages civic participation, and supports continued progress through shared knowledge and engagement,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. 

A Fall 2025 participant shared their experience, saying, “The Columbia 101 class was a great way to learn about how the city government works and also to be able to meet some of the key people who make things happen. I have a much better understanding and appreciation for all of the things that the city does to make Columbia a good place to live. I highly recommend this class.”

Applications for Columbia 101 are available now and will close on Friday, March 20th at 4:00 PM. The program is open to all City of Columbia and Maury County residents and is held twice per year. There is a $25 program fee for all accepted applicants to cover program costs, including food and transportation. 

“Columbia 101 provides residents with a structured overview of how city departments operate and collaborate to deliver essential services,” City Manager Tony Massey stated. “It is a valuable opportunity for participants to learn more about the planning, resources, and coordination required to serve a growing community.”

Lexi Dearborn, Program Director, added, “We’re excited to welcome a new group of participants this spring. Columbia 101 offers a meaningful way for residents to learn more about the city they call home and become more involved in its future.”

Columbia 101 applications are available at www.ColumbiaTN.gov or at the reception desk on the 3rd floor of City Hall. Follow the City of Columbia on Facebook and Instagram at “CityofColumbiaTN” for updates. For questions, please contact Lexi Dearborn at LDearborn@ColumbiaTN.gov.

Maury Regional Foundation to Host Mule Kick (Press Release)

The Maury Regional Health Care Foundation, in partnership with First Farmers and Merchants Bank for the fifth consecutive year, will host the 26th annual Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot on Saturday, April 11, at Riverwalk Park in Columbia.

 Proceeds from the 2026 Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot provide funding for Maury Regional Health’s mobile health unit, which delivers health care services to at-risk and underserved individuals throughout southern Middle Tennessee by providing basic health screenings, education and resources. A portion of the proceeds from the Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot will also support the Foundation’s Wellness and Aquatics Complex Healthy Living Endowment and the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department. In addition, the Maury County school with the most participation in the 5K will receive a donation to their P.E. program from the Foundation.

 “The Mule Kick 5K is more than just a race; it is a community-wide effort to bring life-changing health care directly to those who need it most,” said Foundation Executive Director Rita Thompson. “By participating, you are putting our mobile health unit on the road to provide screenings and education for at-risk individuals across our region. We are incredibly grateful to First Farmers and Merchants Bank, who has served as our presenting sponsor for five years, and all our supporters for helping us stride toward a healthier community.”

The race will begin on Saturday, April 11, at Riverwalk Park in Columbia with an 8 a.m. start time for the 5K and a 9:15 a.m. start time for the 1-Mile Trot. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to participate. Participants may register for the race online at runsignup.com/MuleKick5K.

 “Partnering with the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation reflects our deep commitment to the health of our communities,” said Brian K. Williams, chairman and CEO of First Farmers. “We are honored to support this event and to help provide essential health care resources to those who need it most.”

 In addition to presenting sponsor First Farmers and Merchants Bank, sponsorships ranging from $350 to $2,500 are still available for those who are interested in marketing exposure at this event. For additional information, contact the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation at 931.381.1111, ext. 1012.

 To learn more about the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation, the Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot or to make a donation to the community health fund, which supports the mobile health unit, visit MauryRegional.com/Foundation.

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

Mrs. Jennifer Anne Martin Sharp, 62, passed away unexpectedly Monday, March 16 at her residence. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, March 21 at 10:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Wrigley Cemetery in Hickman County, TN. The family will visit with friends Friday from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Mr. David Wayne Hudson, 79, a resident of Williamsport, passed away Friday, March 13 at Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, March 21 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with military honors provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Mrs. Betty M. Savage Wales, 82, a resident of Culleoka, passed away Thursday, March 12 at Maury Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Glendale Methodist Church in Culleoka

Ernest Giddens “Pete” Sloan, 76, retired Petroleum Geologist for the United States Dept. of Interior, and resident of Columbia, died Friday, March 6, 2026 at his residence.

A memorial service will be conducted Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with The Reverend Chris Bowhay officiating.

Susan Piesch Dobbins, 74, passed away peacefully at her residence in Culleoka on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

A public memorial service will take place at Hopewell ARP on March 21, 2026 at 4:00p.m. A private burial will take place at Hopewell Cemetery.

And now, news from around the state…

GOP Removes 40 Candidates State-Wide (Tennessean)

Tennessee Republican Party leadership has decided to remove from the August primary ballot 40 Republican candidates — many of whom are challenging Republican statehouse incumbents — saying they are not “bona fide” members of the Republican Party.

Among those removed from the ballot is former top House aide Cade Cothren, who was convicted last year in a public corruption trial, then pardoned by President Donald Trump. Cothran was hoping to challenge incumbent Kip Capley of the 71st District, which encompasses part of Maury County.

GOP Chairman Scott Golden sent a letter to state Elections Coordinator Mark Goins on March 17, sharing the party’s decision.

The 40 people removed by the Republican party include two candidates for governor, two state Senate candidates, 17 candidates for the state House of Representatives and 19 candidates for State Executive Committee. Nearly all submitted verified petitions to the state Division of Elections with the required number of signatures to qualify to be on the primary ballot in August.

Republican Party bylaws require candidates to 1) be actively involved in a party or party affiliate, 2) be registered to vote and 3) have voted in at least three of the four most recent statewide GOP primary elections.

People who have voted in any of the most recent four primaries for candidates in any other party primary are immediately disqualified. Individuals who have sued the Republican Party in the last 10 years are immediately disqualified.

The Republican Party also “reserves the right to disqualify any individual from running as a Republican candidate if it determines the individual does not meet the standards or requirements” in its bylaws.

Cothren has been criticized for making campaign donations to Democrat Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson shortly after Republicans voted to expel them from the legislature in 2023. Cothren gave them $100 each that April, their campaign finance records show.

Golden wrote that candidates would be given the chance to appeal the party’s decision to remove their names, and can offer necessary information to restore them to the primary ballot before the election.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Eleven-time Grammy Award-winner Brandi Carlile will continue her triumphant “The Human Tour” this fall with newly confirmed stops across North America, including Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on August 29th. Special guests on the tour include Jensen McRae, I’m With Her, Gregory Alan Isakov, The Head and The Heart, and Stephen Wilson Jr.

General on sale begins Friday, March 20, at 10:00 am local time. Visit www.brandicarlile.com to get you tickets starting this Friday.