Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-15-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 15, 2026

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

Maury Regional Opens Orthopedic Institute (Press Release)

Maury Regional Health officially opened the new Orthopedic Surgical Institute following a ribbon-cutting ceremony May 13 alongside Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA) Columbia and Maury Alliance.

Located on the first floor of the Outpatient Pavilion on Maury Regional Medical Center’s campus, the new institute pairs advanced technology with clinical expertise to create a modern, specialized destination for outpatient orthopedic care in southern Middle Tennessee. The facility expands operating capacity, enhances the patient journey and supports the growing demand for orthopedic procedures.

“We designed the Orthopedic Surgical Institute to create a space where specialized expertise and modern technology work in tandem to serve the increasing orthopedic needs of our community and greater region,” said CEO Martin Chaney, MD. “This center allows our expert orthopedic surgeons and our highly skilled care team to tailor every aspect of the patient experience within an environment dedicated to orthopedic excellence.”

Equipped with four cutting-edge operating rooms, the Orthopedic Surgical Institute supports a comprehensive range of outpatient and elective interventions. These specialties include advanced hip and knee replacements, sports medicine and specialized procedures for the spine, hand, shoulder, foot and ankle as well as sophisticated pain management procedures focused on minimizing discomfort and accelerating recovery.

For total hip and total/partial knee replacement procedures, orthopedic surgeons utilize the Mako SmartRoboticsTM System. This technology generates a 3D digital blueprint of a patient’s anatomy, allowing for highly personalized surgical planning and a focus on anatomical alignment. With nearly a decade of experience in robotic-assisted surgery, Maury Regional Health’s orthopedic program is among the most established in the region.

The facility also utilizes industry-leading navigation systems — including InhanceTM for shoulders, 7D FlashTM for spine and InfinityTM for ankles — to focus on minimizing discomfort and improving recovery times.

“Having utilized the Mako system since 2016, our team has seen firsthand how these sophisticated tools can refine the operating and recovery process,” said orthopedic surgeon Cason Shirley, MD. “By integrating this level of robotic precision and specialized navigation into a dedicated orthopedic environment, we’re enhancing our ability to provide highly personalized care and supporting our goal of getting patients back to their active lives as quickly as possible.”

All orthopedic surgeries at the Orthopedic Surgical Institute are performed by members of the Maury Regional Health medical staff associated with TOA Columbia. They are supported by pain management experts from both TOA and Maury Regional Medical Group.

The launch of the Orthopedic Surgical Institute builds upon a legacy of nationally recognized quality and patient safety. Maury Regional Health is currently one of only four programs in the state — and the only one in southern Middle Tennessee — to earn The Joint Commission’s Advanced Total Joint Certification. This distinction is complemented by recent national accolades, including a 2026 ranking by Healthgrades as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery and the 2025 Women’s Choice Award for Orthopedic Surgery.

“These national recognitions are a testament to the high standard of care our surgical team has consistently provided for years,” said orthopedic surgeon Scott McCall, MD, who will perform the institute’s inaugural case this Friday. “The opening of the Orthopedic Surgical Institute allows us to continue that award-winning tradition in a sophisticated, modern setting that is conveniently located right here in Maury County for our neighbors across southern Middle Tennessee.”

Supporting the Orthopedic Surgical Institute’s clinical excellence is a larger and more enhanced Sterile Processing Department located directly beneath the center on the Pavilion’s ground floor. The sterile processing team has long served as a cornerstone of patient safety at Maury Regional Health, maintaining a rigorous standard for the sterilization and management of surgical instruments. While the team’s commitment to excellence remains unchanged, the new space provides them with expanded capacity and the latest technology to support the institute’s specialized surgical volume. It was also dedicated and named in memory of Tony Bozman, a long-time team member whose nearly 30 years of service left a lasting impact on patient safety.

“While this facility features incredible innovation, our people are the true heartbeat of the Orthopedic Surgical Institute,” Dr. Chaney said. “From the initial planning stages to the daily care provided at the bedside or in the operating room, our team members have gone above and beyond to bring this vision to life. Their dedication is what ensures our patients receive clinical excellence and compassionate care from the moment they walk through our doors.”

Maury Regional Health broke ground on the Orthopedic Surgical Institute in 2024. Wold Architects & Engineers served as the design firm, with Turner Construction leading the building process.

The Orthopedic Surgical Institute is a key pillar of Maury Regional Health’s multi-year strategic plan. Other recent milestones include the grand opening of Lawrence Health Center in Lawrence County and the first of several new retail pharmacy locations. Additional improvements at the main campus in Columbia include the renovation of the Emergency Department, parking and thoroughfare improvements and expansion of the front entry to relocate key patient and visitor services toward the main entrance. To learn more about this strategic plan for the future, visit MauryRegional.com/StrategicPlan.

Siren System Implemented (MauryCountySource)

The City of Columbia has completed the installation and testing of its new citywide public safety siren system, marking a significant investment in resident safety and emergency preparedness. The sirens were successfully tested on Monday, May 11, 2026.

Funded through a $420,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Imminent Threat Program and completed in partnership with the South Central Tennessee Development District, the new system is designed to strengthen how residents are alerted during severe weather and other widespread emergencies.

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder said the project reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to protecting the community. “Investing in public safety remains one of our highest priorities,” said Molder. “This new siren system strengthens our ability to quickly alert residents and provide critical information when it matters most.”

The system includes 12 strategically placed sirens throughout Columbia. Three electric sirens feature both audible tones and voice capabilities, while nine mechanical sirens are designed to deliver strong, far-reaching warning signals. Together, they create a reliable, layered outdoor alerting system to provide timely warnings across the city. The sirens are activated only when a tornado warning is issued by the National Weather Service, meaning a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar, and only for the specific areas of the city where the threat has been identified.

City Manager Tony Massey noted that the system builds on the City’s strong foundation of public safety. “This investment reflects our continued commitment to public safety,” said Massey. “By implementing a modern, reliable alert system, we are enhancing our ability to deliver timely warnings and help protect our residents during emergencies.”

To ensure coverage across the city, sirens have been installed at key locations, including fire stations, parks, utility facilities, and elevated areas:

• Columbia Fire Station No. 3 — 705 Firefighter Drive

• Columbia Fire Station No. 4 — 5040 Trotwood Avenue

• Columbia Fire Station No. 5 — 2633 Nashville Highway

• Fairview Park — 837 Iron Bridge Road

• Ridley Park — 6148 Trotwood Avenue

• Reservoir Hill — near 501 Reservoir Hill Road

• East Pump Station — 1639 Bear Creek Pike

• West Pump Station — 2161 Williamsport Pike

• Wastewater Treatment Plant — 1244 Treatment Plant Road

• Golston Hill — near 2550 Pillow Drive

• East Burt — near 1524 E. Burt Drive

• Honey Farms — near 2201 Drone Way

Future testing dates and times will be announced in advance on the City of Columbia’s website, www.ColumbiaTN.gov, and official City social media channels.

It is important for all citizens to be aware that outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert individuals who are outdoors to imminent danger and may not always be heard indoors, particularly during severe weather when environmental conditions can affect sound travel. For this reason, residents are strongly encouraged to use multiple alerting methods, such as weather radios, mobile alerts, and local media, to ensure they receive timely warnings regardless of their location.

The City of Columbia also offers a free emergency alert system called Hyper-Reach, available to all residents within city limits. This system provides notifications for severe weather and other emergencies. It is integrated with the National Weather Service and the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), ensuring that alerts are delivered directly to your mobile device or landline.

Residents are encouraged to sign up today by calling or texting “Alert” to 931-286-7771, or by registering online at:

https://signup.hyper-reach.com/

Kelly Scholarship (Press Release)

Preference for Maury County residents, or people with family history here, is among the criteria of a $10,000 scholarship to be awarded for the 2026-2027 academic year. Named by the African American Heritage Society of Maury County and an anonymous donor to highlight the work of two distinguished Columbia leaders, the NAACP Edmund and John H. Kelly Scholarship can be used at any accredited college or university nationwide. The application period closes May 22.

Rev. Edmund Kelly (1818-1894), born enslaved, was co-founder in 1843 of Mt. Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church. He became an evangelist who organized churches in many states, earning enough to buy freedom for himself and his wife and children.

The family moved in 1851 to New Bedford, Massachusetts. He returned many times to Maury County. His son, John Henry Kelly (1852-1935), initially trained to be a lawyer, but moved to Columbia in the 1880’s to found and become principal of College Hill School, the county’s first public school for African Americans. In the1890’s he created a summer Teachers’ Institute that used local professionals and seasoned teachers to train and certify African Americans to teach in Maury County Schools.

Students applying for the scholarship will write a brief essay about the impact of one of these men and how the challenges he faced compare to those the student has experienced. The African American Heritage Society of Maury County has agreed to constitute the Scholarship Review Committee, which will evaluate the essays of applicants who pass the NAACP screening process and conduct a virtual panel interview of each finalist.

The online scholarship portal is open now until May 22nd. Find the link in this news transcript by visiting www.frontporchradiotn.com.

https://naacpinspire.smapply.io/prog/edmund_and_john_h_kelly_scholarship_/

CSCC Students Take Part in Creative Arts Symposium (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College students earned several awards for research, art and history-related projects at the Undergraduate Research and Creative Arts Symposium held at Middle Tennessee State University. 

It was a first-of-its-kind event cohosted by the Tennessee Board of Regents and MTSU that allowed students from several community colleges in Tennessee to join their faculty sponsors and mentors to show off their hard work and research achievements through poster presentation contests that were judged by MTSU research faculty. 

Nine current students and three faculty members represented Columbia State at the event.

Students of Dr. Elvira Eivazova, Columbia State associate professor of biology, were awarded first place for their biology research poster presentation on bacteriophage discovery. Those students included Malaika Ellahi of Maury County, Chloe Navy Dobson of Williamson County, Cherestina Ferrari of Williamson County and David Moffo of Marshall County. Second place was awarded to Rutherford County resident Michael Flanagan, a Columbia State student of Dr. Kristin Jernigan, associate professor of biology, for his poster presentation on Wolbachia bacteria in arthropods.

In the arts competition, Columbia State students Daryl Rembinski of Williamson County, Leo Rojas Aguilar of Williamson County and Chloe Dobson received first, second and third place, respectively. Students of Dr. Jessica Evans, associate professor of English, presented a poster on Columbia State's legacy as Tennessee's first community college, including the impact of the college's dedication day featuring Lady Bird Johnson. Those students included Malaika Ellahi, Isadora “Izzy” Swingle of Hickman County and Olivia Ferrara of Maury County.

Two of Eivazova’s former anatomy and physiology students, Patricia Aguilar and Mariana Ferrucci, also attended the symposium.

“I am so thankful to TBR for creating this opportunity for community college students to present their work and to really let their talents shine,” Eivazova said. “I am also thankful to our amazingly talented students for letting us be a part of their academic journey. This event is one example of how High Impact Practice experiences can foster inquisitiveness, creativity and engagement.”

After the project poster showcase and awards ceremony, students were then invited to participate in tours of the MTSU research labs and to network with university research professors. The tours showed a range of lab spaces focused on areas including cancer research, biomedical optics, neuromarketing and artificial intelligence, digital history and cognitive neuroscience.

Open to all TBR students and faculty, the event highlighted the importance of academic curiosity and mentorship beyond the traditional classroom environment.

Spring Hill Expo (Press Release)

The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year as the Experience Spring Hill Business Expo & Job Fair returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Battle Creek High School.

Free and open to the public, Experience Spring Hill is more than a business expo, it is a high-energy event designed to showcase the people, businesses, services, and growth shaping one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing cities.

With more than 4,000 attendees expected, the event brings together local businesses, restaurants, healthcare providers, nonprofits, home services, retailers, fitness studios, financial professionals, City departments, and employers, all under one roof for a Saturday filled with entertainment, interaction, and local connection.

“This event gives people the chance to truly experience Spring Hill,” said the CEO of the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you are looking for your next favorite local business, a new job opportunity, family activities, or simply something fun to do on a Saturday, this event was designed for you.”

NEW for 2026, the Experience Spring Hill Job Fair will connect job seekers with employers actively hiring across a variety of industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with local companies, explore career paths, and learn more about the businesses investing in the future of Spring Hill.

Those attending with children can enjoy the Family Fun Zone featuring kid-friendly activities, interactive booths, Touch-a-Truck experiences, games, giveaways, and hands-on fun designed to keep children entertained while parents explore the Expo.

One of the most popular areas of the event is the City Hall corridor, where attendees can meet representatives from City departments including Parks and Recreation, Police, Fire, and other public services. Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions, gather information, and better understand the resources available throughout the city.

The Expo also gives attendees the opportunity to support local businesses in a meaningful way through face-to-face conversations and real connections that go beyond social media and online searches.

“This is the kind of event where you walk in expecting to stay an hour and end up spending the day,” organizers shared. “You leave with new connections, new favorite businesses, and a deeper appreciation for the city you live in.”

Experience Spring Hill 2026 is presented by TriStar Spring Hill ER.

The Bridge Named Among The Best Assisted Living (CDH)

The Bridge at Columbia has been named one of the best assisted living communities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

The recognition comes as part of the publication's annual Best Assisted Living Communities list, which evaluates more than 3,000 senior living communities nationwide. The ratings are based on customer satisfaction survey results, according to a recent news release.

The Bridge at Columbia received high marks this year in Care Services, Staff & Management, Feels Like Home, Safety, Value and Activities & Enrichment. The facility is located at 851 W. James Campbell Blvd. and offers assisted living services, including customized health care, recreational and wellness programs, meal service, routine wellness checks and security.

“We are incredibly honored to be named Best Assisted Living 2026 by U.S. News & World Report,” said executive director Shannon Clifton. “This recognition reflects the dedication and teamwork of our entire Bridge family. Most importantly, it speaks to the trust that families place in us every day. Thank you for choosing us to provide care, nourishment, safety and joy for your loved one.”

The Bridge at Columbia shares a campus with Life Care Center of Columbia, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility.

Both communities are affiliated with Tennessee-based Life Care Centers of America.

And now, news from around the state…

Poll Workers Needed (Press Release)

Secretary of State Tre Hargett is encouraging eligible Tennesseans to consider serving as poll workers in preparation for the August 6, 2026 State and Federal Primary and County General Elections and the November 3, 2026 State and Federal General Election.

“Poll workers are essential to the success and integrity of Tennessee elections, and I encourage all eligible Tennesseans to consider serving their communities during the 2026 election cycle,” said Secretary Hargett. “These dedicated individuals help ensure every voter has a smooth, secure, and efficient voting experience.”

During early voting and on Election Day, poll workers perform a variety of important duties at polling locations across Tennessee. Responsibilities may include greeting voters, checking voter registration information, answering questions, explaining voting procedures, assisting voters as needed, and helping process ballots at the close of polls. Poll workers are compensated for their service and receive all required training prior to Election Day.

Qualifications to Serve as a Poll Worker

To be eligible, individuals must:

• Be at least 16 years old

• Be a registered voter if 18 years of age or older

• Be able to read and write the English language

• Not be a candidate on the ballot or a close relative of a candidate

Government Employees Eligible to Serve

The following government employees may also serve as poll workers:

• City, County, and Metro employees (unless employed directly under the supervision of an elected official appearing on the ballot)

• State of Tennessee employees

• Federal employees, subject to approval and guidance from their Human Resources Department

“By serving, citizens can help voters in their own community confidently cast their ballots while reinforcing the transparency, accuracy, and security of Tennessee elections,” said Coordinator of Elections Mark Goins.

Tennessee has been ranked number one in election integrity for four consecutive years. The Tennessee Secretary of State’s Office is the trusted source for all election resources. For more information about becoming a poll worker, visit: https://pollworkers.govotetn.com/

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Nashville Symphony has announced dates and programs for its popular annual Community Concerts, a beloved summer tradition throughout Middle Tennessee. From June 3 through 13, the Orchestra will perform free concerts in local parks and communities in Davidson, Montgomery, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties.

Nashville Symphony Conductor Nathan Aspinall will conduct a program featuring American classics including John Philip Sousa’s“The Stars and Stripes Forever;” selections from John Williams’s scores from Far and Away and Star Wars; Berlioz’s Roman Carnival overture; Copland’s “Hoe-Down from Rodeo and an excerpt from Lincoln Portrait; Rodgers’s The Sound of Music; and Strauss II’s On the Beautiful Blue Danube Waltzes. Nashville Symphony Chorus Director Tucker Biddlecombe will also conduct a one-night-only program with the Nashville Symphony Chorus on Sunday, Jun 7 at The Factory at Franklin.

More information can be found at NashvilleSymphony.org/CommunityConcerts.