Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 4-6-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for April 6, 2026

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

Ogles Proposes Flag Legislation (CDH)

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles recently announced a proposed piece of legislation that would require the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

"Just as Christians recognize, fast, and reverently participate in the life of Christ during Holy Week, America’s institutions should reflect that same reverence," Ogles wrote in an April 3 post on X.

"That is why I have introduced legislation to lower the US flag to half-staff on Good Friday and Holy Saturday. This would serve as a solemn reminder of Christ, who was crucified for our transgressions against a holy God. Christ is King of America, and we should honor Him accordingly," The Republican congressman concluded in the post.

Following its introduction, the bill was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on March. 27.

H.R.8150 aims to amend Title 4 of the U.S. Code, the section of federal law that governs the U.S. flag and other national symbols. The code includes laws for when and how the American flag is displayed, including official half-staff days.

The official half-staff days, according to Title 4, are Memorial Day and Peace Officer's Memorial Day. All other instances of when the flag flies at half-staff are based on case-by-case scenarios, such as when a U.S. official or member of the armed forces dies.

Title 4 is meant to summarize the long-standing traditions about how the U.S. flag should be displayed and used. For those not already required to hang the flag, clauses are framed as recommendations, as they primarily state "should" and not "shall" in matters pertaining to the hanging of the flag.

"To require the flag to be flown at half-staff on the first Friday and Saturday after the full Moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox, and for other purposes," Ogles' bill states.

Contrary to Ogles' post, H.R.8150 does not use religious language. Instead, it states the flags should be flown at half-staff on "on the first Friday and Saturday after the full Moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox."

The first Friday and Saturday after the full moon on or after the spring equinox are Good Friday and Holy Saturday, as Easter Sunday is always on the first Sunday after the first full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox, according to the Episcopal Church.

While the language of the proposed law doesn't feature religious language, the bill itself notes that its colloquial title is the "Good Friday Act of 2026."

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," says the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.

Under the First Amendment's Establishment Clause, Congress is barred from passing laws that favor or endorse certain religions. That being so, Ogles' bill is bound to raise some bipartisan questions pertaining to government neutrality toward religion.

Article VI of the Constitution also indicates the separation of church and state, as it prohibits religious tests for public office, further reflecting the foundational notion.

"No religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States," the article states.

Mule Day Queen and Court Chosen (MSM)

The judges of the 2026 Mule Queen pageant chose Ava Sykes, a Columbia resident and teacher-in-training, as the queen of its court. She and the other winners will appear in public during the Mule Day festivities, most notably on a float in the parade.

Ava, 20, won the Mule Queen age category for young women of 15-25 years old. To be considered, she and the other contestants sent in short biographies which gave the judges background details, including their schooling, extracurriculars and personal traits. On the morning of the pageant, on Feb. 21, the contestants gave five-minute interviews to the panel of judges, and later in the day made four-minute presentations on topics related to Mule Day.

Since the theme of this year’s Mule Day pageant was “Red, White and Mules,” Ava put together a historic and patriotic book that she titled “Little Shoulders, Big Legacy.” The “red” pages in the book went over the history of Mule Day, the “white” pages described the sensory experience of the weekend festivities, and the “blue” section was an educational program that she and a couple other Mule Court members have been teaching to students at their schools of employment.

“[Little Shoulders, Big Legacy] teach[es] the children not only about Mule Day, but how they can be a part of it,” she explained. “If we don’t teach this younger generation about Mule Day, then it’ll die off, and that’s what I don’t want to happen.”

Ava’s work led naturally to her Mule Day project. While she attends an online teaching program at Western Governors University in the evenings, during the day she works as a “building substitute” teacher and girls’ basketball coach at E.A. Cox Middle School. She and her colleagues on “Little Shoulders, Big History” have taught its lessons at E.A. Cox, Randolph Howell Elementary School, Mt. Pleasant Elementary and other schools.

“Ava has been doing a wonderful job of outreach for the schools,” said Rachel Houston, one of the assistant directors of the Mule Queen pageant. “It’s nice to have a Queen that is so active in… promot[ing] Mule Day, because that’s what the position is, an ambassador for Mule Day. We’re proud of her.”

2026 marked Ava’s fourth year competing, and changing her approach from that of previous years finally made her the Queen.

“I think in past years [I watched] everyone else do it and everyone has a different way of doing things, and… there’s different judges every single year, so you don’t know exactly what they’re looking for,” she told Main Street Maury. “In past years I think I had… planned and planned and planned, tried to fit a mold that I thought I needed to occupy, but this year… I decided… ‘I’m just gonna be Ava.'”

“It’s fun as a director to get to watch them grow,” said Houston. “I saw Ava in her first year, and progress over the years in her speeches, and then to her final year when she wins. They grow a lot through the process.”

Dr. Clifford Day Announced (MauryCountySource)

A longtime physician and community leader in Columbia is being recognized for decades of service and dedication to improving the lives of others.

The City of Columbia, TN announced that Mayor Chaz Molder officially proclaimed “Dr. Rufus Clifford, Jr. Day” during a recent Rotary Club of Columbia TN Noon meeting. The honor celebrates the lifelong contributions of Dr. Rufus R. Clifford Jr. to children, families, and the broader community.

Dr. Clifford was also presented with additional proclamations from Maury County and the State of Tennessee, recognizing his impact both locally and across the region.

A graduate of Lawrence County High School, Dr. Clifford went on to attend David Lipscomb College and earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. He served patients at Columbia Pediatric Clinic and held leadership roles at Maury Regional Hospital, including Chief of Pediatrics and Chief of Staff.

Throughout his career, Dr. Clifford received numerous honors, including Tennessee Pediatrician of the Year in 1997 and the Maury County Medical Society’s Community Service Award in 2006.

In addition to his medical work, Dr. Clifford has been an active member of Rotary since 1987, serving as president of the local club and later as District Governor for Rotary International District 6760. He and his wife have both been recognized as Paul Harris Fellows for their commitment to humanitarian efforts.

City leaders say his involvement in charitable initiatives and service projects has left a lasting mark on the Columbia community.

Mt. Pleasant Updates Strategic Plan (MSM)

The Mount Pleasant Board of Commissioners has approved an updated long-term strategic plan, establishing a structured framework to guide the city’s growth, operations and community priorities in the years ahead. 

The plan outlines long-term goals, annual objectives and targeted strategies designed to strengthen performance, improve productivity and ensure the delivery of essential services, while also prioritizing community and individual well-being. 

The update follows a strategic planning work session, where commissioners and staff evaluated the city’s direction and identified key priorities. As part of the process, the board revisited the city’s 2024 mission statement, using a series of guiding questions to ensure it reflects Mount Pleasant’s core purpose, emphasizes community impact and supports long-term planning. 

The revised mission statement reads: 

“The mission of the City of Mount Pleasant is to deliver dependable services, protect public safety, and support a community where people are proud to live, work and grow.” 

Commissioners also refined the city’s use of the SMART framework- specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-based data to strengthen accountability and improve implementation. 

Seven primary strategic objectives were identified: 

• Reduce water system loss. 

• Develop and implement a comprehensive stormwater plan. 

• Expand and maintain a city-wide street paving and resurfacing program.

• Strengthen community-oriented programs. 

• Expand volunteer and citizen engagement programs 

• Update the zoning ordinance with an emphasis on attainable and affordable housing. 

• Support trade-based learning and workforce development initiatives. 

Board members praised the planning process for its efficiency and collaboration. 

Commissioner Pam Johnson described the January work session as one of the most productive she has experienced. Vice Mayor Willie Alderson echoed that comment, noting the city was able to complete the work internally without outside consultants. 

The strategic plan will be evaluated annually and incorporated into the city’s budget and capital improvement planning process.

Chargers 5K (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College recently hosted the first-ever Chargers 5K, Chargers Walk and Chargers Trot on the Williamson Campus.

The 5K race began at 8 a.m. on March 21 with 174 registered runners and walkers from nine states and 16 counties around Tennessee. Chargers 5K medals were given to race participants, while ribbons were presented to individuals participating in the Chargers Walk and Chargers Trot for children.

Over 40 faculty, staff and students helped the event go smoothly.

“Perfect weather, doing something good for our students and having fun all came together for a successful inaugural Chargers 5K!” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors and to every runner, volunteer and supporter who joined us.”

The Chargers 5K event also included a one-mile Chargers Walk and a Chargers Trot race for children up to age 10. There was also a Kids’ Zone with fun activities for children and families.

“I am so proud of our Williamson County community for their support of the Chargers 5K!” said Dr. Shane Hall, Columbia State vice president of the Williamson Campus and community engagement. “Our participants, our sponsors and our volunteers truly represented our community values by coming out to support Columbia State’s Williamson Campus and our students. I will see you all next year at the 2027 Chargers 5K!”

A special thank you to the City of Franklin, RunNash, A Matter of Timing and neighbors around the Williamson Campus for the help and support of the event.

“It was truly inspiring to see our campus and community come together with such purpose and passion for this year’s 5K,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “I want to thank every participant and partner who crossed the finish line with us. This event was more than just a race; it was a powerful reflection of our commitment to students, and the support raised will directly enhance our ability to fulfill our mission.”

Where’s Maury the Mule (Press Release)

Maury Alliance’s annual “Where’s Maury the Mule?” shop local passport adventure is happening now. The rules are simple: pick up a passport, find Maury the Mule hidden in as many businesses as possible, and turn your passport in at the Maury Alliance office located at 106 West 6th St in Columbia by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, April 14th. Share your adventure on social media using the hashtag “maurythemule” so everyone can follow along!

Ways to Win

• Visit 30 businesses for a single entry into the GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

• Visit 35 businesses for a double entry into the GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

• Visit 40 businesses for a triple entry into the GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

• Visit at least 5 businesses for a chance to win Local First gift cards and other prizes

• There will be two Grand Prize winners, each will receive $500 in gift cards from participating businesses.

For complete rules and details visit www.mauryalliance.com.

Spring Hill’s Coffee With A Cop (MauryCountySource)

Community members in Spring Hill will have a chance to meet and speak with local police officers during an upcoming outreach event.

The Spring Hill Police Department is hosting “Coffee with a Cop” on Friday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will take place at Target, located at 1033 Crossing Boulevard.

Organizers say the event is designed to give residents an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and build relationships with the officers who serve their community—all in a relaxed, informal setting.

Attendees are invited to stop by, enjoy a cup of coffee, and engage in conversation with local law enforcement.

Backlot Musicfest (CDH)

The Mulehouse, 812 S. High St., will host its second Backlot Country Fest on April 11, coinciding with Columbia's 52nd annual Mule Day celebration.

The event will feature country singer Priscilla Block as the headliner, with performances by Shane Profitt, Katie Austin and The Bandana Brothers, according to a Wednesday, March 25 news release from The Mulehouse.

Lauryn Snapp, a nominee for an Academy of Country Music Award for National Daily On-Air Personality of the Year, will serve as the emcee. Snapp is known for her work on SiriusXM's The Highway Mornings.

The festival aims to provide a lively concert experience following a day of Mule Day festivities. General admission tickets are $35, with discounted multi-ticket packages available. A limited number of VIP tickets are also being offered.

The VIP experience includes a dedicated entrance, exclusive viewing area, limited seating, a covered lounge, private bar access and separate restroom facilities.

This will mark the second year for the Mulehouse backlot event. The first, held in 2023, was considered a success.

Amy Fish, senior director of concerts and events for The Mulehouse, expressed excitement about the event.

"We’re excited to create something special alongside the always fun Mule Day weekend that extends the energy of the daytime events into an unforgettable nighttime experience," Fish said. "The Backlot Country Fest is designed to bring fans closer to the artists they love while showcasing a few of the most exciting voices in country music today."

Daniel Medina, who has owned The Mulehouse since May, also shared his enthusiasm, according to the release, stating he is thrilled the venue is part of the Mule Day celebration and looks forward to embracing the community through the outdoor music festival.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit The Mulehouse website at www.TheMulehouse.com/backlot.

Farm City Breakfast (Press Release)

The Maury Alliance Agribusiness Committee invites you to the annual Farm City Breakfast honoring the agriculture and agribusiness industry of Maury County.

This year's Farm City Breakfast will be held on Friday, April 17th, at the Ridley

4-H Center. The breakfast line opens at 6:45 am with the program beginning at 7:00 am and concluding by 8:30 am. 

The Keynote Speaker is Colonel Littleton, and a Maury County Century Farm will be honored.

There is no charge to attend the breakfast, however they will be collecting donations during the event for the 2026 Farm City Scholarship Memorial Fund. This year, scholarships will be given in memory of Mary Susan Kennedy.

The Agribusiness Committee invites you to become a sponsor of the 2026 Farm City Breakfast! Your contribution allows us to continue this successful event as well as provide scholarships to Maury County students.

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

Mary Ann Morton Fry, 104, a resident of Columbia, passed away peacefully at her residence on April 3rd.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends on Monday, April 6 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations to Rose Hill Cemetery, or Morton Cemetery. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

And now, news from around the state…

Political Lawsuit Bill Progresses (Tennessean)

In an effort to curb lawsuits from political opposition, Republican lawmakers gave final approval on April 2 to a bill to make it harder for all Tennesseans to challenge the constitutionality of new state laws. The bill now goes to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk.

House Bill 1971 repeals a provision Republicans passed eight years ago, aimed at ensuring Tennesseans can sue the state to challenge unlawful or unconstitutional bills passed by the legislature before they suffer harm. 

Since then, many new laws passed by the Republican-controlled legislature have been challenged — and held up — in court.

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti — whose office has to defend new laws in court — requested lawmakers repeal the measure and replace the barriers removed in 2018.

“Virtually every piece of legislation results in litigation these days,” Skrmetti told The Tennessean late last month. 

House Bill 1971 removes citizens’ right to sue the state over whether a new law is constitutional before actually suffering harm. If signed into law, citizens seeking to mount a constitutional challenge would have to prove actual damage had been done in order to have standing for a lawsuit.

Sen. Jeff Yarbro, D-Nashville, said the bill makes state government decisions “unreviewable by the citizens and by the courts.”

“This is not conservative,” Yarbro said. “Conservatives used to not trust power. I didn’t want concentrated power in some centralized government. But what’s happening right now is centralized power in a centralized government that can’t be checked.”  

Senate Republicans narrowly approved the measure in a vote of 18 to 13 on April 2. It squeaked through the House with just 56 votes on March 30. 

It now goes to Gov. Bill Lee for his signature. The governor could veto the bill, but unlike many states, Tennessee requires only a simple majority to override the governor’s veto. 

From the beginning, Republican bill sponsor Sen. John Stevens, R-Huntington, has said the bill is aimed at shutting down “abusive, politically motivated lawsuits from left-wing groups.” Majority Leader Jack Johnson said that it would prevent courts from being bogged down in deciding “theoretical disagreements.”

“If this law remains in place and advocacy groups — both left and right — are able to get injunctions against a statute we pass, the people of Tennessee are not going to know how to comply with the law,” Stevens said. “That is not a system of government that people are asking for.”

Republicans argued that if people remained able to challenge the legality of the legislature’s actions, their lawmaking work would not be permenent. 

“As long as [the law] remains in place, I have to assume that groups like Every Town for Gun Safety could come into Tennesse courts and could begin to unwind legislation that we have passed that protect the rights of the Second Amendment?” asked Sen. Brent Taylor, R-Memphis.

Democrats argued that the American system of separation of powers empowers the courts to check the power of the legislative branch. 

“We have three branches of government for a reason. If a citizen truly believes that something is unconstitutional or an action will be harmful, I don’t think that we should try to make it harder for them to do that,” said Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis. 

When a law is challenged, judges have discretion to grant an injunction only if proper proof is offered, Akbari noted. 

“It’s not like Oprah — you don’t get an injunction, you don’t get an injunction, you don’t get an injunction,” Akbari said. 

“To stand here and vilify the potential actions of a jduge who we confirm and we vote for and say that they will just arbitrarily grant injunctions to undo the laws that we pass as a legislature, I think, is really not fair,” Akbari said. 

The bill doesn’t block lawsuits against the state altogether, but it would stop lawsuits like those that have halted the rollout of certain Republican-backed measures 

Stevens pointed to two ongoing lawsuits that the bill would have prevented: Phillips v. State challenging Tennessee’s abortion ban, and the challenge by Memphis officials of Gov. Bill Lee’s deployment of the National Guard there.

“The people will not accept being ruled by the judiciary,” Stevens argued. “Our system works because the people have a say in the laws that govern their lives. The legislative process gives everyone the opportunity to have a voice in how their day-to-day lives are regulated.”

The bill survived a rocky road to the Senate Floor, initially failing in the Senate Judiciary Committee before senators called it back up for a vote.

Both ends of the political spectrum united in opposition to the measure. A powerful coalition of conservative groups including Beacon Impact, Institute for Justice, the Goldwater Institute, Pacific Legal Foundation, and Americans for Prosperity Tennessee lobbied against the bill, saying that it would “undermine Tennesseans’ ability to safeguard their constitutional rights … to hold the government accountable.”

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

One of Middle Tennessee’s most beloved springtime traditions is gearing up for another year, as the 85th Annual Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival is set to take place on May 8th and 9th in Portland, Tennessee. This year’s theme is “Berry Proud to be an American.”

The two-day celebration kicks off Friday, May 8th with the Strawberry Jam Concert & Fireworks. Food vendors and live music will get underway at 5 p.m., with Nashville Yacht Club headlining the evening before fireworks light up the sky at 8:30 p.m.

The festival’s main event takes place Saturday, May 9th, featuring more than 250 vendors, multiple music stages, a kids’ area, and a magic stage. The day wraps up with a parade at 4 p.m.

For more information, visit www.MiddleTNStrawberryFestival.com.