Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-29-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 29, 2026

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

Columbia Farm Supply Fire (Press Release)

Columbia Fire & Rescue responded to a reported commercial structure fire shortly after 12:40 a.m. on Friday, at Columbia Farm Supply, located at 170 Bear Creek Pike.

Heavy fire conditions were throughout the building and within minutes, the fire had intensified.

Columbia Fire & Rescue immediately initiated a defensive fire attack due to the advanced fire conditions.

Crews worked throughout the night extinguishing heavy fire conditions, protecting exposures, and addressing numerous hotspots within the structure.

No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported during the incident.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Columbia Fire Marshal's Office. Fire officials will remain on the scene throughout the day as part of the investigation process.

Columbia Fire & Rescue would like to thank the Maury County Sheriff's Office, Maury County Fire, Spring Hill Fire, Mt. Pleasant Fire, Maury Regional EMS, Columbia Power and Water Systems, and all assisting agencies for their support and cooperation during this incident.

Wanted Man At-Large (Press Release)

The Hickman County Sheriff’s Office is asking residents in the Duck River area to remain vigilant following an incident involving a wanted subject.

Earlier today, deputies attempted to stop a motorcycle in the Duck River area. The motorcycle fled from deputies. The motorcycle crashed and the rider fled on foot into a wooded area.

The motorcyclist has now been identified as Nicolas Sparkman, who has warrants out of Maury County and Hickman County.

At this time, it is unknown if he remains in the area or is armed. However, deputies will continue to maintain an increased presence in the area as a precaution.

If you observe any suspicious activity or believe you have information regarding his whereabouts, please contact Hickman County Dispatch immediately. (931)729-5146

Please do not approach the subject if seen.

State Comptroller Visits Columbia (MSM)

In a speech to the Columbia Noon Rotary Club two weeks ago, Tennessee Comptroller Jason Mumpower presented important economic indicators for both the state and Maury County.

The 114th General Assembly passed a $58.3 billion budget for FY 2027. Half of it was funded by state revenue (mostly sales tax), a third came from the federal government, and the rest from disparate sources like college tuition and franchise and excise taxes. The state’s top five expenses accounted for $47.7 billion, or four-fifths of the budget: TennCare, education at all levels, social services, transportation and corrections.

The state’s unemployment rate in March was 3.6 percent, compared to the national rate of 4.3 percent. Mumpower noted that a fraction of a percent left the workforce around the time of COVID and haven’t yet returned. The state’s labor force participation rate of 59.4 percent is lower than the national rate of 61.9 percent, but Middle Tennessee’s participation rate is greater, at 63.4 percent.

Mumpower also celebrated the state’s good, and improving, reputation as a business-friendly environment: number three Best for Business according to Chief Executive magazine, number four Best Business Climate in Site Selection, and number 10 state in which to start a business according to Yahoo. Tennessee also has fewer officially distressed counties than it did when the Lee administration took office, down from 15 to 11.

The state’s population has grown and continues to do so, to 7.3 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau, making it the 15th-largest state. U-Haul ranked it the fourth-fastest-growing state behind Texas, Florida and North Carolina, using its database of one-way rentals from one state to the next. The states losing the most people, said Comptroller Communications Director John Dunn, are high-tax environments like California, New York, Illinois, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Maury is the second-fastest-growing county in the state and the 62nd-fastest in the nation, adding 17 percent to its population since 2020.

Tourism, Tennessee’s biggest industry behind agriculture, brought in 147 million visitors who spent $31.5 billion in Tennessee, or $87 million per day, in 2024. Without those tourists, Mumpower said, the average household would pay an additional $1,170 in taxes.

All these factors add up to give Tennessee a very healthy fiscal outlook. It has close to the lowest tax burden per capita, a funded pension program, the lowest state debt in the country and an unprecedented rainy-day fund of $2.21 billion.

FFA Students Tour Farm (MSM)

Students from Battle Creek High School toured agricultural operations earlier this month, as members of the Future Farmers of America. Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Chris Martin, whose Career and Technical Education department planned the tour, stated that it was meant to expose the students to the career paths, lifestyles and techniques now possible for modern farmers.

The students first visited the Delk heritage farm in Williamsport. Nancy Delk, who came up with the idea for the tour, and her husband Neil Delk showed the students around their “century farm,” and told them what it’s like to be a commercial farmer. People from the co-op also showed the students the capabilities of large drones, which farmers are now using to apply fertilizer and pesticides to crops, and Natural Resources Conservation staff told the students about conservation and soil science.

The students then travelled to the Crop Center of the United Farmers’ Co-op in Mount Pleasant. The students learned about the farming supplies sold at the Crop Center, which include fertilizer, feed and chemicals, and were visited by Randy Stubblefield, the CEO of the local co-op.

Finally, the students visited the Larry Church Farm and Beef Barn in Mount Pleasant, to learn about the “value-added” business model that they’re pioneering. Troy Dugger, CEO of the state Center for Profitable Agriculture (headquartered at the Columbia 4-H center on Lion Parkway) told the students that instead of selling or auctioning their animals for relatively low prices to powerful and consolidated processing companies, farmers like the Churches have begun processing their animals and crops themselves, then selling them direct-to-consumer.

The students, Martin said, received the whole tour well and were especially impressed by the technology involved in contemporary farming.

“I think that the takeaway is that science and tech are at the forefront of everything we’re doing and teaching to students… and seeing that in person, they realized that,” Martin said. “The people in the industry they’re studying are using science and technology and math every day to do their job.”

Local Business Receives Grant (Press Release)

Needle & Grain, a downtown Columbia general store, has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Amex Shop Small® Grants Program, a joint initiative of American Express and Main Street America. The $20,000 grant will fund a major expansion of the store’s zero-waste refillery station, tripling its size and broadening the range of bulk household products available to Maury County shoppers.

Opened on Columbia’s downtown square in 2016, Needle & Grain has built a reputation for purposefully crafted and curated goods. In 2020, owners Bryson and Susan Leach introduced a refilling station where customers can refill containers with soaps, cleaning supplies, and other household staples — skipping single-use packaging and reducing costs by buying in bulk. The grant will allow the Leaches to significantly expand that program, adding new product categories and serving more of the community.

“We started the refillery because we genuinely believed our customers wanted a smarter way to shop — one that was easier on their wallets and easier on the environment,” said Susan Leach, co-owner of Needle & Grain. “This grant lets us go from a proof of concept to something that can really serve this community at scale. We’re excited to bring in more product categories and make bulk buying accessible to more Columbia families.”

The Amex Shop Small Grants Program awarded more than $10 million to over 500 small businesses across the country in 2026, with each recipient receiving a $20,000 grant. Selection was based on demonstrated community impact, growth potential, and alignment with the program’s mission to strengthen local economies. The program was launched in honor of America’s 250th anniversary and expanded through American Express’s Small Business Saturday giving pledge.

Needle & Grain is located at 802 S Main Street in Columbia and is open to the public. The refillery expansion is slated to open June 5th. Customers can follow updates through the store’s social media channels.

Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is proud to celebrate the graduates of the 2026 Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council and the bright future they represent for our community.

Established in 2019 by Chaz Molder, the Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council provides local students with firsthand experience in municipal government while fostering civic engagement and developing future community leaders. Over the course of the program, participants worked alongside City departments to gain valuable insight into how local government operates and how daily decisions impact the Columbia community. Through this experience, students strengthened their connection to Columbia, developed a deeper understanding of public service, and gained leadership skills that will help shape the city’s future.

Chaz Molder praised the graduates for their commitment and enthusiasm

throughout the program.

“The Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our community’s future,” said Mayor Molder. “These students have demonstrated curiosity, leadership, and a genuine commitment to serving others. It has been inspiring to watch them engage with City departments, ask thoughtful questions, and gain a deeper understanding of how local government works. I am incredibly proud of what they have accomplished and excited to see the positive impact they will make in Columbia and beyond.”

The City is honored to recognize these students for successfully completing the program and applauds their dedication to learning about public service and community leadership.

For more information about the Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council please visit ColumbiaTN.gov.

Blood Needed (Press Release)

As Middle Tennessee enters the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” Blood Assurance is urging people to donate blood, platelets, and plasma now and throughout the summer to help prevent a seasonal donor shortage from threatening local hospital supplies.

Blood Assurance is already facing a shortage of donors, and summer can make the problem worse. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” because of the rise in deadly crashes, often involving teenagers. It also marks summer trauma season, when crashes, outdoor injuries and water-related emergencies can increase blood usage just as donations drop because of school breaks, vacations and disrupted routines.

As the primary blood supplier for most hospitals in Middle Tennessee, every donation can have a direct impact on patients close to home. Trauma victims, cancer patients, mothers experiencing complications during childbirth and people undergoing surgery may all need blood with little or no warning.

More than 540 volunteer blood donors are needed every day to maintain an adequate supply for the hospitals Blood Assurance serves.

“Hospitals do not get a summer break,” said Garry Allison, executive vice president of operations for Blood Assurance. “When emergencies happen, blood must be ready before the patient arrives. Behind every unit of blood is someone’s child, parent, spouse or friend. We need people to donate now and throughout the summer so local hospitals have what they need to save lives.”

Donors who give through May 31 will receive a special Memorial Day T-shirt while supplies last.

Appointments can be made at www.bloodassurance.org, by calling 800-962-0628 or by texting BAGIVE to 999777. Walk-ins will also be accepted.

To be eligible to donate blood, donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Donors are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, avoid caffeine and eat an iron-rich meal before donating.

Blood Assurance is a nonprofit, full-service regional blood center serving more than 70 health care facilities in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky and North Carolina. Founded in 1972 through a joint effort of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society, the Chattanooga Area Hospital Council, and the Chattanooga Jaycees, Blood Assurance’s mission is to provide a safe and adequate supply of bloodand blood components to every area patient in need.

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.

America 250th Celebration (Press Release)

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the City of Columbia created a series of initiatives recognizing the community’s rich heritage and the valuable contributions of a few of the individuals who helped shape its history.

As part of the America 250 commemoration, the City has launched Columbia250USA.com, a dedicated website designed to share information about local events and highlight some of the people who have left a lasting impact on Columbia. Central to the site is a special feature recognizing 26 of Columbia’s most influential figures, referred to as ‘Architects of History.’  These leaders, legends, and visionaries represent the spirit and legacy of Columbia across generations.

To further recognize these individuals, the City has brought their stories to the heart of downtown. Decorative banners featuring the 26 historical figures are now displayed throughout the downtown area, creating a visual tribute that connects residents and visitors to the city’s past. 

The website includes brief biographies of each honoree, offering insight into their contributions and lasting influence. The historical content was generously provided by Maury County Archives and the African American Heritage Society of Maury County.

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder emphasized the importance of recognizing Columbia’s unique role in the nation’s story.

“This initiative is about more than marking a milestone, it’s about recognizing the people who built our community,” said Molder. “It’s about ensuring that their stories continue to be told to inform future generations. As we recognize America’s 250thanniversary throughout 2026, Columbia is proud to celebrate our shared history while looking ahead to the future we are building together.”

For more information, visit Columbia250USA.com.

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

Mr. Thomas “Jerry” Cheek, a long-time resident of Culleoka, passed away on Wednesday May 27 surrounded by his family at Maury Regional Medical Center. A graveside service will be conducted at Wilkes Cemetery in Culleoka at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 30.

And now, news from around the state…

Symphony Offering Free Concerts (Tennessean)

The Nashville Symphony will continue a long-standing tradition with six free concerts across five Middle Tennessee counties in June, according to a community announcement.

The 2026 Community Concert series schedule is:

• June 3: Historic Rock Castle, Hendersonville, 7:30 p.m.

• June 4: Downtown Commons Pavilion, Clarksville, 7:30 p.m.

• June 5: Musicians Corner Stage, Centennial Park, Nashville, 8 p.m.

• June 6: Two Rivers Mansion, Nashville, 7:30 p.m.

• June 7: The Factory at Franklin, 7 p.m. (choral performance)

• June 13: Cumberland University Memorial Lawn, Lebanon, 7:30 p.m.

Conductor Nathan Aspinall will lead the five orchestra concerts.

The program for the symphony concerts includes:

• Roman Carnival Overture"

• "Hoe-down" from "Rodeo"

• "On the Beautiful Blue Danube Waltzes"

• "The Sound of Music "selection

• Suite from "Far and Away"

• Excerpt from "Lincoln Portrait"

• "Main Title" from "Star Wars"

Tucker Biddlecombe will conduct the choral performance in Franklin. The choral concert will include "Hark I Hear the Harps Eternal,” “Wondrous Love,” “Saint Bound for Heaven” and other selections.

Several of the concert locations will offer family-friendly pre-concert activities and food options.

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. More information is available at www.NashvilleSymphony.org/CommunityConcerts.

THCA Ban Begins in July (TNLookout)

A combination of state and federal rules are going to reshape Tennessee’s once-burgeoning hemp industry starting in July.

Most of Tennessee’s most popular hemp-derived cannabis products, like THCA, will be illegal to sell as the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission assumes full regulatory control of hemp and begins enforcing a ban passed in 2025 by state lawmakers.

The commission became the state agency responsible for hemp at the start of the year but a last-minute deal allowed companies operating under the old regulatory framework to continue selling products like THCA until June 30.

Officials with the Alcoholic Beverage Commission appeared before the legislature’s government operations committee in May to finalize the rules, acknowledging that most of the public comments focused on frustrations with the THCA ban.

“Our focus was to faithfully implement the framework enacted by the general assembly,” said Russell Thomas, the executive director of the commission.

After Congress passed the 2018 hemp bill, new marijuana-like products were sold in states that hadn’t already legalized it. These new, mostly smokable, drinkable, and edible consumer items are derived from hemp, which allowed them to avoid Tennessee’s ban on THC products, but still produce a similar type of high.

The most glaring loophole was THCA.  When burned, THCA essentially turns into THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that is illegal in Tennessee. THCA, because it comes from hemp, technically has a THC content below the state’s previous legal threshold.

The industry quickly grew in Tennessee, with stores popping up across the state to sell the products.

But starting in 2022, state Republican lawmakers began trying to rein in the industry, in part because at one point there were no age restrictions on who could buy it.

Initial outright bans proposed by lawmakers failed to pass the legislature, in part due to financial concerns. In 2022, the state’s legislative fiscal review committee estimated that hemp products had an economic impact of $180 million.

But marijuana prohibition lawmakers eventually got their way in May 2025, passing legislation to close the THCA loophole. U.S. Congress followed suit, passing a law in November 2025 to close the THCA loophole nationally by 2026.

Industry experts estimated that 75% of hemp sales come from THCA, and expect that once the ban fully goes into effect on July 1, it will be a death blow to the industry.

Rep. John Crawford, a Kingsport Republican, said during the hearing that the new rules are likely to put a wholesaler in his district out of business.

”I have a really hard time with that we gave them permission over the last year, and now we’re taking that back,” Crawford said.

The ban is also expected to impact the state’s budget, where officials have already reduced this year’s hemp wholesale tax projections from more than $55 million to less than $10 million.

Hanging over the whole hemp conversation is a move by President Donald Trump’s administration to reclassify marijuana in April from Schedule 1, considered a dangerous addictive drug to Schedule 3, recognizing its potential medical benefits.

Tennessee doesn’t have a medical marijuana program, but did have a provision in law requiring the health department to review its options if marijuana were ever reclassified. But Republican lawmakers passed a bill this year removing that provision and requiring the legislature to pass its own law creating any medical marijuana program.

Proposals for a medical marijuana program in Tennessee are expected to be proposed during the next legislative session in January.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Visit what is commonly known by community members as "Columbia's hidden jewel" when the historic Athenaeum hosts its annual Free Day in May this weekend.

Enjoy a tour of The Athenaeum's Rectory, 808 Athenaeum St., starting at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Guests will hear the story of how The Rectory played a vital part in advancing the education of young women in the mid-1800s, and how it is the only remaining structure of the former Columbia Female Institute.

In addition to free tours, guests can also stroll the property's gardens and enjoy light refreshments.

Learn more at www.historicathenaeum.com.