Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 4-21-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for April 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…

Multiple People Charged in Overdose Death (WKRN.com)

Four people, including a mother and grandmother, are being charged for their connection to the overdose death of a Maury County teen.

Katelynn Dupont was just 16 years old when she died from an overdose on Dec. 14, 2024. Approximately four months later, on April 10, the Maury County Sheriff’s Department made multiple arrests in Dupont’s case.

A multi-count indictment reports that four people, including the teen’s mother Casey Bankhead and grandmother Nancy Bankhead, have been arrested in connection to the overdose.

Casey and Nancy were reportedly charged with aggravated child neglect and first-degree murder.

According to the charging document, the women “unlawfully and knowingly neglected a child under 18 years of age, so as to adversely affect the child’s health and welfare, and the act of neglect resulted in serious bodily injury.”

Jerry Durham is being held in the Maury County jail facing six charges, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, two counts of aggravated statutory rape, one count of aggravated child neglect and possession of meth.

During the interview with News 2’s Andy Cordan, Durham stated that the drugs that killed Katelynn Dupont came from her mother.

The fourth person indicted in connection to Dupont’s death has been identified as 43-year-old Jessica Estes. She is charged with second-degree murder.

The mother of two adult children acknowledged that she has a history of drug dealing, but said she doesn’t deal to children and she didn’t deal the drugs that killed Katelynn Dupont.

Both Nancy and Casey Bankhead have since been released from jail on bond. No additional details were immediately released.

New Restaurants Coming to Columbia (CDH)

Columbia's food options will be getting a new addition as Whataburger seeks to open its first location in the city off James M. Campbell Boulevard.

The popular fast-food chain, founded in Frisco, Texas, appeared before the Columbia Planning Commission in February, when site development plans were approved.

In addition to Whataburger, plans for a Panda Express are also in the works at the site.

Construction plans and an estimated timeline have yet to be submitted, though development plans will include a five-foot wide sidewalk on James M. Campbell Boulevard.

City planner Austin Brass said one of the benefits of having a sidewalk in the plans is that it creates a new standard requiring sidewalks for future developments in the area.

"In previous discussions, we've had to have a rational nexus for having a sidewalk," Brass said. "They are providing that; therefore, any additional development that would occur would have to provide a public sidewalk there. So now we can establish our sidewalk program there that we have, historically, not been able to achieve."

In December of 2024, the planning commission former Sloan Ford site at 115 S. James M. Campbell Blvd. was subdivided into three parcels to allow multiple developments.

The planning commission ultimately voted unanimously in favor of the plans.

Walmart Coming to Honey Farms (CDH)

The Columbia Planning Commission has approved preliminary plans for a Neighborhood Walmart to be constructed in the Honey Farms subdivision off Nashville Highway, next to a proposed McDonald's.

Walmart presented a request for preliminary planned unit development at Nashville Highway and Honey Farm Way on April 9, which consisted of a few details as to how the new big box retail store will compare to others.

The store won't be a typical Walmart superstore like the existing Columbia location off Brookemeade Drive and James Campbell Parkway, but rather a smaller 40,000 square-foot facility the brand has begun to utilize in smaller communities.

"Overall, working with the applicants on the site plan, they did come very far in meeting our ordinance standards regarding [fronting], parking lot orientation and overall design," City Planner Austin Brass said. "From my understanding, this is a new prototype store. It is not a traditional neighborhood market ... but a little larger, but not a supercenter."

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder later asked if the plan also included connectivity for traffic and/or pedestrians. Brass said there are plans to add an additional internal drive to the front of the store, which will connect with Leafcutter Bee Way behind a proposed McDonald's adjacent to the parcel.

"There is a stub-out to the north of the property where the buffer is," Brass said. "What that does is set up a development standard to when that property to the north develops, we have a true internal drive section built up, which in turn helps reduce conflicts onto Nashville Highway."

Much of the April 9 discussion focused on the suggested variances the Planned Unit Development could allow, as well as concerns over signage, particularly to the back of the building.

Vice Mayor Randy McBroom ultimately motioned for the planning commission to approve the preliminary development plans, with the condition that the store's south side signage be removed.

"I appreciate the way it looks, because it doesn't look like a Walmart, but more like a medical building," Vice Mayor Randy McBroom said. "I think it will fit really well with the McDonald's next to it. I think this is what we are trying to grasp in that area, because this isn't your normal looking Walmart. I think it will be a plus up there with the two-story look."

Molder added that the project is "another example of seeing the zoning ordinance work to get a very good product."

"Just as importantly, we are getting a much-needed retail center in this area of north Columbia," Molder said. "I am proud to support this motion."

The vote was ultimately 5-1, with Planning Commissioner James Sloan opposing.

New Columbia Mall Taking Shape (CDH)

As the previous Columbia mall site off James M. Campbell Boulevard continues to take shape, developers are now attempting to create better connectivity as the shopping center's first businesses prepare to open.

The site, which had for years remained undeveloped and considered by many to be an eyesore, appeared on the Columbia Planning Commission's agenda earlier this month.

Plans indicate shops in the development, thus far, would include Ulta cosmetics, Wing Stop restaurant, an America's Best eyewear store, Bath & Body Works and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Property owners Highland Capital also presented a request to use an existing driveway to provide safer access for pedestrians adjacent to the proposed 12,113 square-foot retail center.

"Without having existing sidewalk on Shady Brook Street or any sort of crosswalk at James Campbell leading pedestrians up to that area with nowhere to go was a safety concern," Preston Ayer of SWS Engineering, the principal engineers on the project, said. "Our feeling was how can we add pedestrian safety within the site?"

In addition, the proposed improvements could also provide opportunities for connectivity to future development sites in the area.

"This is essentially getting us a sidewalk that is not as far as what we would require, but on the other hand is actually getting us a sidewalk to connect to the parcels already there in existence," Mayor Chaz Molder said. "So, we are solving a problem that's there today instead of putting sidewalks to a problem that's not there yet."

"This is a long-term goal for us, and we want to make sure this is something that all connects, but we are trying to do it at a time that makes sense," Highland Capital Principal Wyatt Woeltje said. "That's why we are trying to connect it to the main mall property at this time. What I don't want to do is build something only to tear it back up as the developments come in."

During the April 9 meeting, Woeltje spoke about the progress the mall has made since the December 2024 purchase, including shops customers can expect.

"We very much are excited about what is coming," Woeltje said. "We have Academy Sports, Ulta Beauty and Bealls coming in. Wing Stop is legitimate, as is Bath & Body Works, America's Best and Tropical Smoothie. We are pushing very hard to strike while the iron is hot."

In addition, Woeltje said 7 Brew Coffee and Valvoline are among other companies ready to move into the site.

"Those are coming along quickly as well," he said.

In addition to a new sidewalk and shops, the mall's overall visual aesthetic is set to have a few changes.

"We just renovated that pilon sign that was previously at Columbia Powersports, and it is now separated into multi-panel tenant spaces, and so hopefully every single tenant will have panels on that pilon," Woeltje said. "It is now fully finished. That is our goal, to take what's been given to us by Hull property group and make it better."

While there was much discussion about the site's future, much of which remains is unknown in regards to connectivity and development of adjacent Highland Capital-owned properties, Molder concluded the April 9 discussion.

"These guys are clearly invested in this site, and they are going to want connectivity, to be able to require connectivity from their tenants because they know it's going to make better sense for their property as whole," Molder said. "This would provide immediate walkability from a new outparcel that's going to have four tenants, maybe five, to the major property."

Molder later motioned to approve the request, which received a 4-2 vote in favor by the planning commission.

New Doc at Maury Regional (Press Release)

 Kathryne Chirco, FNP-BC, AGACNP-BC, recently joined the medical staff at Maury Regional Medical Center. She is affiliated with Maury Regional Medical Group (MRMG) Critical Care.

She received a master’s degree in nursing from California State University in Fresno, California, and completed a post-master’s certification as an AGAC-NP at the University of Texas at Arlington in Arlington, Texas.

MRMG Critical Care is a specialty practice dedicated to providing care to patients who are hospitalized in the Critical Care Unit at Maury Regional Medical Center. For more information, please visit mauryregional.com.

Exhibit at CSCC (Press Release)

Columbia State’s Pryor Art Gallery is set to host an art exhibit showcasing the talent of Maury County students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The free exhibit will be open to the public from Monday, April 21, to Friday, May 9.

The gallery will be open from Monday - Thursday from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 am. - 4 p.m.

A special reception for the students will be held on Wednesday, April 23, at 5:30 p.m. in the gallery.

"Our passionate K-12 art instructors are thrilled to showcase their students' unique and inspiring creations," said Gabriel Trius, Columbia State Pryor Art Gallery curator.

The Pryor Art Gallery is in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus located at 1665 Hampshire Pike.

For more information about the exhibition, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/PryorGallery or Facebook at ColumbiaStatePAG.

Habitat for Humanity Receives Grant (MSM)

Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury recently announced it has been awarded $46,500 in grant funding from Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee, made possible through a $500,000 grant from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA). These funds will help build two new homes in Maury County, providing a solid foundation for families striving for the American Dream of homeownership.

“We are truly grateful for THDA’s support! This grant represents hope, security and the promise of new beginnings for these two local families. THDA’s loyal generosity reminds us of the power of partnerships, and we are honored to have them join us in this life-changing work,” HFHWM CEO Kim Randell shared.

These grants will support the construction of 20 homes across Tennessee for first-time homebuyers who are working toward financial independence. THDA’s funding will empower Habitat affiliates to continue their mission of offering a hand up — not a handout — to families willing to invest their time and energy into achieving homeownership.

“THDA is a vital partner in making homeownership attainable for more Tennesseans,” said Colleen Dudley, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee. “This grant is an investment in families who are working hard to achieve homeownership. It also strengthens local economies by fostering stability and growth, ensuring that communities continue to thrive.”

Since 2006, THDA has directed more than $117.3 million in grants to programs that strengthen homeownership and self-reliance in Tennessee.

“Habitat for Humanity has a long history of helping families achieve the dream of homeownership, and we are pleased to continue supporting this effort,” THDA Executive Director Ralph M. Perrey said. “This grant allows us to partner with Habitat affiliates across the state to build homes that strengthen families and communities.”

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization that believes in empowering families through homeownership. Future homeowners invest in their own success by contributing sweat equity — helping build their own homes alongside volunteers — and then purchasing their homes with an affordable mortgage. This approach ensures personal responsibility and financial commitment, reinforcing values of hard work, faith and family.

Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury (HFHWM) was fully incorporated as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in 1992 and has built and repaired more than 300 homes in Williamson and Maury Counties, while continuing to build eight to 10 new homes per year.

Home construction, critical repair and neighborhood development services are funded through tax-deductible financial contributions, in-kind donations from local businesses, churches, civic

organizations and individuals; and profits generated from our affiliate’s ReStore. For more information about the homeownership program, volunteering or sponsorship opportunities, please visit hfhwm.org.

TOA Breaks Ground in Spring Hill (MSM)

The Tennessee Orthopedic Alliance broke ground on its planned Spring Hill Clinic on Tuesday, April 8, its 23rd clinic in Middle Tennessee. The TOA employs 74 physicians, 41 physician assistants and nurse practitioners and 75 physical therapists, and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The clinic, which was first conceived in 2021, will add more than 70 jobs to the Spring Hill area and serve as the city’s first comprehensive orthopedic clinic, offering walk-in clinics, physical therapy and rehab and sports services. For treatment it will have two X-ray suites, an MRI, a procedural suite for in-house musculoskeletal and small-time surgeries and a 5,500-square foot physical therapy/rehab department. To promote orthotic health in advance, the facility will also feature a 44,000-square foot sports-performance center for athletes, school classes and other exercisers.

“We’re super proud to have such a great facility offering the breadth of services we provide across TOA, from clinic to surgery to therapy [to] sports performance; all things that connect the dots to an active lifestyle,” organization CEO Rob Simmons said. He also thanked the staff and physicians: “Without them providing the high level of care over the years… the confidence to make this investment wouldn’t be possible.”

TOA officials thanked the city for incubating the facility, Oman-Gibson for serving as the developer, Batten-Shaw Construction, Tri-Star Bank and Maury Regional Medical Center for their support.

“It’s really easy to get up here, recognize the new jobs, the investment, all the fun stuff that comes with new projects and groundbreaking, but this particular project is a little bit more than just that,” said Wil Evans, president of the Maury County Chamber of Commerce. “This project is vital for being able to recruit new businesses… [and] having the workforce for us to be successful.”

Rod Holliman, head of Spring Hill’s Chamber, reminisced about an early job as head administrator of a hospital in the mountains of Colorado, where he was in charge of 26 beds and three doctors.

“It taught me one thing: healthcare is all about caring for people,” he said. “TOA is a great example of that kind of quality.”

Dr. Lee Hunter, an orthotic surgeon, credited several “younger surgeons” with having a “vision” of the clinic long before it happened. Among them he named Dr. Christopher Loftis, Dr. Carson Strickland, Dr. Bartley McGehee, Dr. Kenneth Sykes, Dr. Jonathan Pettit and Dr. Willie Porter, who “backed the whole design, working with the architects and the team.”

“I appreciate the sacrifice that they have made,” Hunter said, “the thought process, the creativity to bring something like this to life.”

Dr. Christopher Loftis, one of the young surgeons and a native of Middle Tennessee, also spoke. He felt “lucky” to have landed near his home and parents, beating the willy-nilly odds of medical job and residency placement.

“You’ve got to take the job that’s available,” he said, “but I got to come home… and I’m not the only one.”

Loftis said he was looking forward to building relationships with the city and community.

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

Michael Lee Dale “Big Daddy”, 60, Truck Driver for Marlene’s Express, and resident of Williamsport, died Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

A visitation will be held Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. 

And now, news from around the state…

Mike Wolfe Closing Antique Archaeology (Tennessean)

Mike Wolfe, creator and star of popular antiques-hunting TV show "American Pickers," will close his Nashville retail store, Antique Archaeology, on April 27.

Wolfe — who moved to the Nashville area in 2010 — told The Tennessean on April 16 that he's closing his store here to spend more time in his hometown of LeClaire, Iowa, where his 81-year-old mom still lives.

Wolfe said closing the 14-year-old store — the first retail outlet to open in converted car manufacturing compound Marathon Village in North Nashville — was bittersweet.

Wolfe, 61, said he had an emotional pull to spend more time with longtime relatives and friends in Iowa and to bring back dilapidated buildings in his hometown.

"Everything I’ve ever known is there," he said. "I want to drive on roads I’ve driven on my whole life. I want to be around things that are familiar. And I want to be back there more with my little girl and with my mom."

Wolfe — who emphasized he's staying in the affluent Williamson County hamlet of Leiper's Fork with his 13-year-old daughter, Charlie — said he couldn't operate both the Nashville store and spend more time in Iowa.

"If I can't put all of it in that store, it hurts me," he said.

Wolfe told the 10 full-time employees April 17 he was closing the store. Wolfe plans to be at the store April 26, the day before it closes, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to thank Nashville shoppers for their business and to sign autographs and pose for pictures.

Wolfe said he first fell in love with Nashville in 2001 when he, then a successful antiques dealer, stopped here on a cross-country motorcycle trip. Wolfe moved to Leiper's Fork in 2010 around the same time he launched "American Pickers," with the help of some Nashville creatives.

Some antiques dealers and small shop owners in Nashville inspired him to open his own retail outlet, one that exploded with the popularity of his television show, which was drawing around 6 million viewers an episode.

Wolfe signed autographs for 10 hours the day he opened Nashville's Antique Archaeology. In its early days, there were hourlong lines to get into the shop, which often features antique "picks" he discovered on his TV show. Wolfe, a huge music fan, often featured live bands in the store.

"There were a lot of things in there, key pieces from the show that were not for sale, because I wanted people to experience them, so I curated it like a museum/retail space. It was my first time I could really flex that muscle," he said.

"Now all of a sudden, I have a space in a big old car factory, with art directors and prop masters helping me set up the store. I was in tears; I couldn’t believe it was mine."

Wolfe is launching a second TV show, and he remains active in converting some vacant spaces in Columbia, Tennessee.

"I want to be involved in projects that inspire me and challenge me. Retail was such a challenge here to prove myself. Once we did, it was, ok, I can check that box. It’s bittersweet to close the store in so many different ways, but with what I’m doing with Columbia, I'll stay active here in Tennessee."

Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee Today!

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Centennial Park Conservancy announced Musicians Corner, Nashville’s free concert series, is returning this spring for its 16th year with five weeks of live music in Centennial Park, kicking off May 16. The multi-genre series will showcase a variety of performers at 11 concerts over the course of five weeks. Musicians Corner will take place every Friday from 5 – 9 p.m. and Saturday from 12 – 6 p.m. from May 16 to June 14, with a special Sunday performance over Memorial Day Weekend (May 25).

Musicians Corner’s spring lineup will feature multi-genre performances from artists including Valerie June, Noah Gundersen & His Band, Cut Worms, and the Nashville Symphony. The 2025 Spring Series kicks off on May 16 and May 17 with performances from SUSTO Stringband, Jonny Fritz featuring Joshua Hedley, LadyCouch, and more.

For more information visit www.conservancyonline.com.