Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 3-21-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for March 21, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Spring Hill Early Voting to Begin (WilliamsonScene)

Early voting in the Spring Hill municipal election begins today, March 21.

Residents can cast their votes early at the Spring Hill Community Senior Center from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. during weekdays and from 8:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Saturday. Early voting ends on Saturday, April 5 and election day is the following Thursday, April 10. Voters can head to the polls on election day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at their voting precinct, which can be found at web.go-vote-tn.elections.tn.gov.

In this election, Spring Hill citizens will choose their next mayor from four candidates: John Canepari, Matt Fitterer, Jim Hagaman or Rick McCreadie. Hagaman is the incumbent mayor while Canepari and Fitterer both hold alderman seats that are not currently up for election. If they are not selected by voters to be the next mayor, they will continue to serve in their alderman positions until their terms end in 2027. McCreadie has not held a public office in Spring Hill.

The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce held a forum with the mayoral candidates on Feb. 27. The chamber has shared a full video of the forum on its Youtube page for those who could not attend to have a chance to review the candidates responses.

Saturday Appointments for Real ID (Press Release)

The Department of Safety and Homeland Security announced today that it will begin offering additional Saturday appointments at 14 Driver Services Centers across the state for current Tennessee credential holders who want to get a REAL ID.

Saturday appointments will begin at 13 participating Driver Services Centers starting this Saturday, March 22.

Included among the Driver Service Centers is the Columbia Driver Services Center located at 1701 Hampshire Pike.

To take advantage of the new expanded Saturday appointments, applicants must already have a valid Tennessee driver license or identification card. REAL ID applicants who do not currently hold a valid Tennessee credential will be served during regular, Monday to Friday hours.

 Saturday hours are available by appointment only. Applicants without a REAL ID appointment will not be served during the new Saturday hours. Schedule your REAL ID appointment now at tnrealid.gov.

 REAL ID applicants must bring proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, proof of their Social Security Number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency. If your name has changed, you must also bring certified legal documents supporting the name change(s). This could include marriage licenses, divorce decrees, etc. All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted.

 The TDOSHS encourages all applicants to have their REAL ID required documents pre-approved online. Pre-approved documents can save you in-person processing time at the Driver Services Center and may eliminate repeat trips.  A complete list of accepted documents and the pre-approval portal are available at tnrealid.gov.

 For more information about Tennessee REAL ID, visit tnrealid.gov.

Cepicky Starts Tennessee-Israel Caucus (MSM)

State Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, last week announced the creation of the Tennessee-Israel Caucus in the Tennessee General Assembly.

The Tennessee-Israel Caucus will work to strengthen political ties between the state of Tennessee and the state of Israel through bilateral trade, educational collaboration and enhanced cultural understanding.

“Israel has been a great friend and ally to the United States and it’s important that we continue furthering our relationship,” Cepicky said. “The Tennessee-Israel Caucus will foster an environment of collaboration and allow for an incredible exchange of ideas to make life better for Tennesseans and Israelis. I look forward to this partnership strengthening our political ties while promoting progress and prosperity.”

The bipartisan caucus will help further collaboration between Tennessee and Israel by building on shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to innovation and progress. 

Cepicky is co-chair of the 60-member caucus, which is open to all members of the General Assembly. Legislators on Monday were joined by Consul General of Israel to the Southeastern United States Anat Sultan-Dadon to formally establish the caucus.

Cepicky represents House District 64, which includes part of Maury County.

Midstate Classic Recap (CDH)

Columbia's annual Midstate Classic softball tournament not only went off without a hitch on its 10th anniversary, with many attendees claiming it was the "best one yet."

The tournament's headliner featured the return of the University of Tennessee Lady Vols versus rival Eastern Kentucky University Colonels. The Lady Vols reigned as the victors, winning the game trophy.

Tuesday's collegiate tournament featured three games ahead of the headliner, beginning with Columbia Central High School squaring off against the Spring Hill Raiders, followed by Columbia State Community College and Calhoun Community College.

With more than 3,000 people in attendance, the 2025 Midstate Classic was a record attendance year, one which City Manager Tony Massey, a key figure in spearheading the tournament, said is a testament not only to the tournament's success, but Ridley Sports Complex as a valued asset for bringing new visitors to Columbia.

"It has been a couple of years since we have had the University of Tennessee here, and the turnout today shows that, because this place is about 90% orange, though Eastern Kentucky is certainly no pushover," Massey said.

It is also one of only a few tournaments like it in the state, Massey added.

"This is the one day of the year, at least in the softball world, where Columbia is on the map," Massey said. "Outside of Knoxville, this is the only in-state place where the Lady Vols come to play, and that's pretty special.

"They don't go to Chattanooga or Murfreesboro, they come to Columbia."

Former Columbia Mayor Dean Dickey, also a prominent early voice of the Midstate Classic, was also in attendance Tuesday, saying that he couldn't be happier how the event has grown over the past decade.

The tournament was canceled over three years due to inclement weather in 2024 and during the COVID-19 crisis in 2020 and 2021.

"This is the best one we've had yet," Dickey said. "Of course, Tony helped to lay the groundwork. We are so happy these people keep coming back. It is exciting times for Columbia."

As a Columbia Parks and Recreation event, Director Mack Reagan said he was also thrilled at the tournament's success, and that even though it takes a lot of work, it is all worth it in the end.

"This has been our best, most exciting Midstate Classic," Reagan said. "Without a doubt, we have got the most attendance we've had in five or six years, the best games, best production, everything is going great. We couldn't ask for anything more from top to bottom."

In addition to a full day of competitive sports, the 2025 Midstate Classic also paid tribute to longtime Parks & Rec Director Willie Morgan, who threw out the first pitch before the final game.

To throw the first pitch representing a department he devoted decades of love to, Morgan said, was an honor, but more importantly that he got to share it with his granddaughter, Saviya Morgan, who also plays for UT's starting lineup.

"I enjoyed working for the city of Columbia Parks & Recreation Department, and it is a blessing getting to see my granddaughter play," Morgan said. "I'm glad that God gave me the opportunity to see this. It's something that will stick with me the rest of my life."

The Midstate Classic continues to be a major draw for local women's sports, which in turn has also brought significant tourism dollars to the local economy.

Tourism & Marketing Director Kellye Murphy said the event is also just an all-around fun time of the year, and having really good weather to watch the games certainly helped.

"We love the economic impact of this event and the people coming in," Murphy said. "The weather is great, and we are thrilled everything has gone on without a hitch this year. This is definitely a feel-good event and feels kind of like our kickoff to spring."

From a public safety standpoint, Columbia Fire & Rescue Chief Chris Cummins said the event couldn't have gone smoother, and that's because the department had a good plan to execute.

"This is a good event and a lot of folks come out, and we are truly prepared and have a plan we have been working on for years, and it just gets perfected more and more every year," Cummins said. "Safety is up, and we have most everything squared away to prepare for this event."

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder, who proudly sported his orange UT colors at the game, said the Midstate Classic is always a great time for many reasons, mainly because it is the time of year people start coming together outdoors, and it's also a lot of fun.

"This is always one of the best days of the year for me, but the scene and the weather of course is helping, but there seems to be just so much more excitement in the air," Molder said.

"The Midstate Classic is sort of our momentum swinging into spring, and of course we have Mule Day which will be here soon. It's bringing in crowds from all across the state, and it's pretty cool having the Lady Vols here in your hometown, here in smalltown Columbia."

Find Maury the Mule (Press Release)

Maury the Mule is lost in Maury County and we need your help to find him!

Maury Alliance’s annual “Where’s Maury the Mule?” shop local passport adventure kicks off on Tuesday, March 26th. The rules are simple: pick up a passport, find Maury the Mule hidden in as many businesses as possible, and turn in your completed passport at the Maury Alliance office by 4:00 pm on Tuesday, April 9th. Share your adventure on social media using #maurythemule so everyone can follow along!

This year’s event is proudly presented by Roto-Rooter, a trusted name in plumbing and drain services. Their support has made it possible for Maury Alliance to offer their biggest prize yet—the Golden Mule Jackpot of $1,000!

Here are your ways to win:

Find Maury the Mule in at least 5 businesses for a chance to win!

Visit 20 businesses to be entered into the grand prize drawing!

Visit 25 businesses for a double entry into the grand prize drawing!

Visit 30 businesses for a triple entry into the grand prize drawing!

Visit 40 businesses for a triple entry into the grand prize drawing PLUS the Golden Mule Jackpot!

One lucky winner will receive the $1,000 Golden Mule Jackpot -

sponsored by Roto-Rooter!



Grand Prize winners (2) will receive gift cards from participating businesses!



Additional winners will receive Local First Gift Cards!

Share your search for Maury the Mule on social media using #maurythemule and tag @mauryalliance.

Good luck and happy searching!

Cocoa Bella (Press Release)

Agathos Classical School invites the community to attend Cocoa Bella 2025 – A Fine Chocolate Social on Saturday, April 12, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at The Mulehouse in Columbia. This enchanting evening offers guests a chance to support the school while indulging in fine chocolates, mingling with friends, and participating in a lively auction for a great cause.

Transforming The Mulehouse into an enchanting outdoor garden atmosphere, this year’s event captures the essence of early spring. Attendees will enjoy a delightful live auction featuring an array of lawn, garden, and outdoor items, all while being serenaded by a jazz harpist, adding a touch of elegance to the evening’s ambiance.

The menu promises a mouth-watering selection of culinary delights. Guests can savor a variety of local farm-fresh cheeses, indulge in two meat carving stations, and delight in venison summer sausage and savory bites. Sweet treats will abound with mini chocolate haupia pies, chocolate mousse cups, assorted cake balls, meringues, and rich chocolate baklava. Artisan vanilla and chocolate egg cream sodas will be prepared onsite, and Muletown Coffee Roasters will serve their beloved coffees, complemented by farm-fresh cold milk.

Attendees will enjoy a self-guided tasting experience, sampling fine chocolates paired with palate-cleansing sparkling water. A dedicated area will feature an exquisite selection of truffles and bonbons sourced from local and international artisans.

The highlight of the evening will be a live auction led by Eddie Ables, featuring exciting items for everyone, including an apiary starter kit complete with a beehive and swarm box, paired with a consultation and bootcamp from local bee expert and author, Adam Martin of Bee Kept.

Additional offerings include a Dinner and Flower Event at the home of Amy Montgomery for ten guests, a group kayaking trip with Higher Pursuits, a VIP package for The Homestead Festival including a three-month supply of farm-fresh eggs, and more! The evening will also showcase a spring planter and container sale, bursting with vibrant blooms. Bidding promises to be spirited, entertaining, and a significant part of the evening’s enjoyment!

Tickets are available for $50 per person and can be purchased online at seetickets.us/cocoa412 or by visiting The Mulehouse website. Those interested in making a tax-deductible donation may contact the office of Agathos Classical School at (931) 388-0556.

Cocoa Bella benefits Agathos Classical School—a 21-year-old classical Christian institution serving grades pre-K through 12. Employing proven classical methods, students cultivate a joy for learning, the discipline of critical thinking, and the wisdom to communicate eloquently. These essential skills prepare graduates to excel in life, Soli Deo Gloria—to the

glory of God alone. The school is situated on seventeen rolling acres at the corner of Tom Hitch Parkway and Mapleash Avenue in Columbia and is currently expanding with a new 15,000 sq ft classroom space under construction. To learn more, please visit us on campus or online at AgathosSchool.com.

Mule Kick 5k Set (Press Release)

Hosted by the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation and presented by First Farmers and Merchants Bank, the annual Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot will take place Saturday, April 5, at Riverwalk Park in Columbia.

Proceeds from the 2025 Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot provide funding for Maury Regional Health’s mobile medical 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 Center Healthy Living Endowment and the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department. In addition, the Maury County school with the most participation in the event will receive a donation to their P.E. program from the Foundation.

“We’re proud to continue the tradition of the Mule Kick 5K & 1-Mile Trot, which helps deliver vital health services to individuals and communities in need. Events like this showcase the power of community and the role we all play in ensuring access to quality care,” said Courtney Lewandowski, development specialist at the Foundation. “We look forward to seeing runners, walkers and community members come together for another memorable day.”

On Saturday, April 5, the race will begin 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.

“Our partnership with the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation reflects our commitment to supporting healthier and stronger communities,” said Brian K. Williams, chairman and CEO of First Farmers. “We are excited to support this event once again, knowing it helps provide essential resources and care for 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 medical unit, visit MauryRegional.com/Foundation.

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

Mr. William Albert “Billy” Sargent, 84, retired owner and operator of Sargent & Lovett Body Shop, died Thursday at Maury Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday at 1:00 PM at Grace Nazarene Church. The family will visit with friends Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday from 11:00 AM until time of the services at the church.

Garry Allen Heller, 70, a resident of Columbia, TN died Friday, March 14, 2025 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

A memorial service will be conducted Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Riverside United Methodist Church. The family will visit with friends on Sunday, March 23, 2025 from 1:00 PM till the time of service at Riverside United Methodist Church.

And now, news from around the state…

Barrett Expands to Nashville (Press Release)

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. officials announced today the company will expand in Rutherford County, locating in a new facility at 8808 Manchester Pike.

Barrett plans to invest $76.4 million and create 183 new jobs through the project. The estimated 250,000-square-foot Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus will serve as the company’s primary global firearms manufacturing site and will offer employees a cutting-edge campus environment, housing state-of-the-art manufacturing, a corporate office and other major operations. Additionally, the NIOA Group, Barrett’s Australian-owned parent company, intends to locate its U.S. headquarters at the facility upon completion. 

 Founded in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in 1982, Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc. is a Tennessee-based firearm and ammunition manufacturer. In 2023, the company was acquired by NIOA, a global firearms, weapons and munitions company headquartered in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. 

 Since 2020, TNECD has supported 16 economic development projects in Rutherford County, resulting in approximately 2,600 job commitments and more than $323 million in capital investments.

 QUOTES

“Tennessee is shaped by brands like Barrett that have made significant investments in our skilled workforce for decades. I am proud to announce nearly 200 new, high-quality jobs for families across Rutherford County, and I believe this company will continue to find great success in our state.” – Gov. Bill Lee

 “Some of our biggest selling points as a state are the companies choosing to do business here. It’s no surprise that Barrett attracted the attention of Australian-based NIOA as this company has been a longstanding partner to Tennessee, strengthening our business climate and economy over the years. As brands like Barrett and NIOA continue to innovate and automate, we stand ready to lead and support their efforts.” –Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter

 “We thank the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for their vision and for their shared enthusiasm in this growth opportunity in our state. This is a significant investment in growing Barrett’s capabilities for the future while underscoring our long-term commitment to the company’s Murfreesboro, Tennessee, heartland.” – Bryan James, CEO, Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

If the warm weather is any indicator, spring is nearly upon us and causing the flowers to bloom at Liberty Grace Farms.

Liberty Grace Farms, located at 1966 Hicks Lane in Columbia, kicked off its eighth annual Tulip Fest this week and will occur every Friday through Saturday through April 3. The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

Guests will be able to find their perfect pick among the rolling acres, which will be filled with gorgeous tulips.

Admission is $15 per person on weekdays and $18 on weekends, with children ages 5 and under admitted for free. Bouquet bags and baskets will be provided

Tulips are $1.50 per stem and no pets are allowed.

For more information, call (931) 330-2255.