Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 6-1-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for June 1, 2026

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

Police Asking for Theft Help (MauryCountySource)

The Maury County Sheriff’s Department is asking for the public’s help identifying two people connected to a reported theft at a residence in Maury County.

Authorities said an unidentified man and woman entered a property off Theta Parkway around 3 a.m. on May 8. Surveillance video reportedly captured the pair removing items from the residence before leaving in a dark-colored extended cab pickup truck.

Surveillance photos can be views at maurycountysource.com.

Anyone with information that could help identify the individuals is asked to contact the Maury County Sheriff’s Department.

Columbia Farm Supply Fire (CDH)

Columbia Fire & Rescue crews rushed to the Columbia Farm Supply at 170 Bear Creek Pike after a structure fire was reported just after 12:40 a.m. Friday, May 29.

Firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions that intensified quickly, according to a department statement.

"The main building where the store was had major heavy damage and is not repairable," Assistant Fire Chief Nick Brown said. "It got so hot that the I-beams that hold the roof up bent, but the side over where we were able to protect, where it has the feeds and stuff like that, did not get as much damage."

Crews continued to work throughout the night to extinguish the fire, which Brown said took until around 5 a.m. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

"When we got on scene, our No. 1 goal after life safety is protecting the exposure, protecting what we can protect," Brown said. "We were able to protect as much of their property as possible."

Cleanup continued Friday morning as the Columbia Fire Marshal's Office, along with assistance from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), investigates the fire's cause. This remains an ongoing investigation.

"We are still actively working on determining the cause and the origin of the fire," Assistant Fire Chief Nick Brown said. "That takes time and is a tedious process with a commercial structure like this, a lot of items inside. It takes a little longer to investigate these."

Department officials also thanked additional assisting crews from Maury County Sheriff's Department, Maury County Fire Department, Spring Hill Fire Department, Mt. Pleasant Fire Department, Maury Regional EMS, Columbia Power & Water Systems and all other assisting agencies for their cooperation during the incident.

Hampshire Students Raise Money for Hospital Foundation (MSM)

For the fourth consecutive year, business management and accounting students at Hampshire Unit School have raised $1,000 for the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation’s Breast Center Fund — this time by designing and selling breast cancer awareness T-shirts.

“These classes are designed to give students hands-on experience in areas like entrepreneurship, budgeting and business operations, while also teaching the importance of community involvement,” said Webb Williams, business management instructor. “Supporting the Breast Center Fund through the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation was especially meaningful because breast cancer has touched so many families in our area, including my own. Our students wanted their efforts to make a direct impact locally, and this partnership gives them the opportunity to see how their hard work can truly help others in their community.”

The Breast Center Fund supports women who are battling and recovering from cancer. It provides funding for supplies such as wigs, headpieces, camisoles and lymphedema garments, as well as educational resources and programs that improve the quality of care for patients. The fund ensures women in the community receive personalized care and support during their health care journey.

“Hampshire Unit School’s continued support for the Breast Center Fund helps make a meaningful impact for patients and their families facing breast cancer,” said Rita Thompson, foundation executive director. “Breast cancer affects one in eight women, and support for the fund allows the Foundation to help ease some of the financial and emotional burdens that come with the diagnosis. Thanks to the support from Hampshire Unit School and others, we are able to provide comfort, support and hope to patients during their cancer journey.”

The Maury Regional Health Care Foundation manages a variety of funds and endowments designed to meet the health care needs of individuals and families in southern Middle Tennessee. Since 2006, the foundation has funded more than $5.8 million in programs and services benefiting community members in need. Donors who contribute to any of the funds directly impact lives by improving access to resources, treatment and education. For more information, visit MauryRegional.com/Foundation.

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.”

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.”

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.

Spring Hill License Kiosk (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has introduced a new Driver License Self-Service Kiosk in the lobby of its headquarters at 800 Hathaway Blvd. The kiosk is open to all Tennessee residents—regardless of county—and offers a convenient alternative to visiting the DMV.

Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the kiosk allows users to:

* Renew a driver license

* Obtain a duplicate license or state ID

* Change their address

* Pay reinstatement fees in full

The kiosk does not accept cash or checks; payment must be made using a credit or debit card.

No appointment is necessary. For more information about the service, visit www.tn.gov/content/tn.

Maury County Clerk Satellite Office (Press Release)

The Maury County Clerk’s office can now help residents with renewals of license plates or placards each Wednesday from 8am to 3:30pm at the Maury County Senior Center located at 1020 Maury County Park Dr.

Please drive around to the back of the building and look for the car tag renewal sign near the back door.

Forms of payment include credit/debit card or check – no cash.

Any Maury County Resident can use this office.

All other transactions will still need to be done through the main office located at 10 Public Square.

Also, you can renew online at TNCountyClerk.com or at kiosks in Spring Hill City Hall or Mt. Pleasant Courthouse.

And now, news from around the state…

BNA Partially Closed for Expansion (Tennessean)

Nashville International Airport's main terminal is officially under construction again.

The Metro Nashville Airport Authority closed BNA's central core June 1 to begin a $40 million renovation. Travelers should expect to navigate around the blocked off escalators in the center of the lobby that previously transported them across the ground transportation, arrivals, ticketing and parking garage levels.

Additional staff will be located throughout the terminal to guide incoming BNA travelers to baggage claim and outgoing BNA travelers to the security checkpoint.

Airport officials said the construction is a necessary step to maintain "fluid, efficient travel" for tourists and locals traveling through BNA.

The existing 200,000-square-foot grand terminal lobby debuted to the public in 2023 as part of the $1.5 billion BNA Vision expansion, but MNAA President and CEO Doug Kreulen said airport passenger volume is already outgrowing parts of its existing infrastructure.

"When we started BNA Vision, we were headed to 30 million annual passengers," Kreulen said in March. "But we were growing faster than expected."

Back in 2016, BNA data projected that the airport would support 30 million annual passengers by 2038, and now, those same reports estimate 40 million people will travel through BNA by 2038. Once that time comes, airport officials said Terminal I will hit capacity, and they will hopefully be further along in the process of erecting Terminal II.

Until then, the airport board is working to make sure the existing terminal is built to last with upgraded concourses, plenty of parking and adequate roadways in and out of the property. The ongoing $3 billion expansion phase is called New Horizon, and the upgraded central core is included in its budget.

The $40 million central core renovation is set to be complete by December 2027. Kreulen said he's confident in BNA's contractors to finish on time.

Drop in Holiday Road Fatalities (MauryCountySource)

The Tennessee Highway Patrol investigated only one traffic fatality statewide during the 2026 Memorial Day holiday travel period, according to preliminary results. This is a significant decrease from the eight fatalities reported during last year’s holiday weekend.

During this holiday period, state troopers responded to 776 crashes across Tennessee, including 205 injury crashes, and assisted 454 motorists on state roadways.

State officials say the sharp decline in fatalities reflects Tennesseans and travelers driving through the state making safer choices behind the wheel by slowing down, wearing seat belts, and driving responsibly during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

“This Memorial Day weekend showed what can happen when people make safety a priority,” said Jeff Long. “We saw drivers across Tennessee slowing down, buckling up, and making better decisions behind the wheel. That likely saved lives. While we are encouraged by these numbers, one life lost is still one too many, and our mission to make Tennessee roads safer continues every day.”

The Tennessee Highway Patrol increased enforcement efforts during the holiday weekend with a focus on impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and seat belt enforcement. Troopers maintained a visible presence on interstates and state highways throughout the holiday travel period.

“This was one of the safest Memorial Day travel weekends Tennessee has seen in years,” said THP Colonel Matt Perry. “Our troopers witnessed more drivers wearing seat belts, reducing speeds, and making responsible decisions behind the wheel. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and Tennesseans deserve credit for helping make our roadways safer this holiday weekend.”

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reminds motorists that simple decisions such as wearing a seat belt, putting down the phone and reducing speed can make the difference between life and death.

Data Center Cost Regulation (Fox 17)

A new Tennessee law aimed at protecting utility customers from the growing energy demands of data centers will take effect in July.

The legislation comes as more than 60 data centers power artificial intelligence and other cyber operations across the state, with about one-third located in the greater Nashville area. As the race to build and power AI infrastructure accelerates nationwide and globally, Tennessee lawmakers say they're working to ensure ratepayers are not saddled with the added costs of serving these massive facilities.

"We want to have data centers. But we want to put guardrails around that to protect our ratepayers," said state Rep. Ed Butler, R-Rickman, during a legislative committee hearing in March.

Under the new law, data centers must pay for any new infrastructure required to support their operations, including substations and other power-related upgrades. Utilities are prohibited from passing those costs on to residential and business customers.

"In the rural areas they're putting a lot of these. And we have had a lot of increased utility bills," said state Rep. Dennis Powers, R-Jacksboro, during the same March committee hearing on the legislation.

Powers questioned if data centers could be contributing to ratepayer costs. That question wasn't clearly answered. Regardless, legislators voted the measure through, and Gov. Bill Lee signed it into law to help prevent that from happening.

"If there was a substation that was needed to be put in to provide power for this data center, then the data center would pay for the substation," Butler said during the hearing.

As communities across Tennessee consider proposals for new data centers, and new laws to regulate (or contain) them, some local leaders remain opposed to bringing the facilities to their areas.

"I don't think they fit in Robertson County, and definitely not in my community," said Cedar Hill Mayor John Edwards, who is proposing a two-year moratorium on data centers in his city.

Electric providers and utilities are also preparing for future demand. The Tennessee Valley Authority reports data centers currently account for about 18% of its industrial power load, a figure that's predicted to potentially double by 2030.

The new law also allows utilities, including TVA, to establish a separate customer or rate class specifically for data centers, providing an additional safeguard against shifting costs to other customers.

As energy demand continues to surge, state lawmakers say the goal is to ensure Tennessee stays competitive, while families and businesses do not see higher electric bills because of data center expansion.

Data center advocates, meanwhile, say many facilities generate much of their own power on-site and use advanced cooling systems that require little or no water.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The non-profit “Friends of the Duck” has partnered with Harpeth Conservancy on the premier of the PBS documentary, “Down the Duck with John Guider.” The documentary follows conservationist John Guider as he paddles the entire length of the Duck River, the most biodiverse river in North America.

The premier will take place on June 12th at the Mulehouse, located at 812 South High St. in Columbia. Doors open at 6 pm and the film starts at 6:30 pm. Food trucks will be outside at 5:30 pm.

Tickets are FREE! But you will need to get them in advance. You can do so by visiting the Friends of the Duck Facebook page.