Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 6-13-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for June 13, 2025

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

We start with local news…

UAW to Honor Shooting Victims (CDH)

The North Columbia community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragic May 31 shooting that occurred on Somerset Lane in North Columbia, resulting in two deaths and another person injured.

One of the victims, 46-year-old John Bidle, was a GM worker in the power train department and a member of the United Auto Workers Local 1853, primarily representing GM workers at the plant in Spring Hill. The impact of his death continues to be felt among his fellow union brothers and sisters.

Local 1853 President John Rutherford said news of the shooting and losing "a fellow brother" has been difficult, and something Bidle's colleagues at UAW continue to cope with.

"It's sad anytime something like this happens, especially in a smaller community," Rutherford said. "It sends shock waves and is crazy."

Rutherford added that UAW initially set up a support team following the May 31 shooting, wherein workers could receive counseling onsite if needed.

"Anyone that needed to grieve or talk to a professional, we had that help in the plant," Rutherford said. "The managers agreed to let us do that and that was really nice of them to do. It worked out really good for the membership."

In reflecting on Bidle as a fellow GM and UAW worker, Rutherford said he represented the union well and had a deep love for cars.

"He was a good UAW brother, for sure, a good worker and he was well liked," Rutherford said. "He worked over in the power train department of General Motors. He was a big car guy and built some muscle cars and things of that nature."

Bidle also had a love for the outdoors, was a member of a bowling league and a licensed pilot, in addition to being a loving husband and father, according to his obituary.

At a recent meeting, UAW members banded together to raise a little over $1,000 for Bidle's family, Rutherford said.

A GoFundMe account was also created with a goal to raise $9,000 for the family. As of Wednesday, the account has raised just over $8,000.

The UAW will host a Celebration of Life and visitation in Bidle's honor from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Local 1853 Union Hall, 125 Stephen P. Yokich Parkway, with the Cremation Society of Tennessee assisting in arrangements.

Bidle and neighbor Stacie Wright were shot and killed by suspect and their neighbor Byron Childers, 41, in the Somerset neighborhood in North Columbia. The GM and Ultium plants in Spring Hill are less than a mile from the neighborhood.

Childers was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated assault, one count of assault, firearm use in association with a dangerous felony and carjacking. He was held in Maury County Jail without bond. His court date is June 20 at 9:30 a.m.

Rutherford said the UAW Hall is also planning a day for friends and family to honor the memory of Wright.

"She was a member of Ultium Cells at the battery plant," Rutherford said. "We'll open the doors up for that family as well."

GM to Ramp Up Production (WilliamsonScene)

General Motors is ramping up U.S. production of gas and electric vehicles to the tune of $4 billion at three plants, including its Spring Hill Manufacturing facility in Tennessee.

With plans to expand production at plants in Michigan, Kansas and Tennessee, the company anticipates assembling more than 2 million vehicles per year in the U.S., according to a GM release.

The Spring Hill complex will add production of the gas-powered Chevrolet Blazer, which previously had been produced at a factory in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, and was reported to end gas-powered production to build only electric vehicles there earlier this year.

Production of the Blazer will begin in Spring Hill in 2027. The plant will continue to produce the Cadillac Lyric and Vistiq EVs as well as the gas-powered Cadillac XT5. In April, it was reported that the Spring Hill plant would finish production of the Cadillac XT6 by the end of this year. 

The company states in the release that its 2025 capital spending remains unchanged between $10 and $11 billion and that its future capital spending will range from $10 billion to $12 billion through 2027, "reflecting increased investment in the U.S."

“We believe the future of transportation will be driven by American innovation and manufacturing expertise,” Mary Barra, GM chair and CEO, said in the release. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to build vehicles in the U.S and to support American jobs. We're focused on giving customers choice and offering a broad range of vehicles they love.”

President Donald Trump has put pressure on U.S. manufacturers to bring production that had previously been in other countries back to the U.S. The president has also put far less emphasis on bolstering the move toward electric vehicles than the Biden administration. Trump plans to sign resolutions on Thursday to bar California's plans to end the sale of gas-only vehicles by 2035. In addition to California, 11 other states have similar plans.

Local Firefighters Donate to Red Cross (MSM)

The American Red Cross Tennessee River Chapter has recognized the Columbia Firefighters Local 4381 for their generous gift of $1,000 presented in recognition of the strong partnership between the local first responders and the Red Cross in serving the Columbia community.

The organizations often work together to provide critical assistance to Columbia residents, most recently in response to a local home fire.

“We are deeply grateful for this generous donation from the Columbia Firefighters Local 4381,” said Jay Lovendusky, Disaster Program manager for the Tennessee River Chapter. “This donation essentially went right back into the community by supporting our ability to respond quickly to local disasters like the recent house fire. It’s a perfect example of how local partnerships strengthen our capacity to help those in need.”

In a letter to the chapter, Kris Webber of the Columbia Firefighters Local 4381 said “Our members are proud to support the critical mission of the Red Cross in serving our community, especially during times of emergency and need. We recognize and deeply appreciate the lifesaving impact your organization has every day, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such important work.” 

The collaboration between the Columbia Firefighters and the Red Cross Tennessee River Chapter exemplifies the power of local partnerships in creating resilient communities. The chapter extends its heartfelt thanks to the Columbia Firefighters of Local 4381 for their support and vital partnership in service to the people of Columbia and surrounding areas.

Korean War 75th Anniversary (Press Release)

On the 75th Anniversary of the Korean War, the Tenassee Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Maury County Veteran’s Office will pay tribute to those who served, fought and died on the Korean Peninsula.

At 10:00am on Wednesday, June 25th at the Memorial Building, located at 308 W. 7th Street in Columbia, all veterans, past, present or retired are welcome along with anyone who would like to join a grateful nation in remembering service and honoring those who fought.

A recognition award will be presented to Korean Veteran Dale Winston Riggs at the event.

FNP Joins MRMG (MauryCountySource)

Paige Sheperd is a family nurse practitioner who has joined the hospital medicine program at Maury Regional Medical Center. She is affiliated with the Maury Regional Medical Group.

Sheperd received her bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Tennessee at Martin, Tenn. She obtained her master’s certification in family nurse practitioner studies from Western Governors University in Millcreek, Utah.

Sheperd will begin work at Maury Regional Medical Center and will eventually move to Marshall Medical Center in Lewisburg, TN.

Maury Regional Medical Group, an affiliate of Maury Regional Health, provides Maury Regional’s hospital medicine program professionals. These providers are specialists who devote their time and expertise to adult and pediatric patients exclusively within the hospital setting.

To learn more about the hospital medicine program through Maury Regional Medical Group visit mauryregional.com/hospitalmedicine.

Dems Hold Annual Meeting (Press Release)

The Maury County Democratic Party (MCDP) held its annual fundraiser, the Progress Banquet, on Saturday, June 7 at the UAW Local 1853 Hall in Spring Hill. About 200 Democrats from Middle Tennessee were in attendance.

State Senator Charlane Oliver (D-Nashville) was this year's keynote speaker. Justin Kanew of the Tennessee Holler and TNDP Vice Chair Nathan Higdon also spoke. Brandon “Tennessee Brando” Fuson, a prominent social media influencer who was scheduled to speak, was unable to attend.

Senator Oliver, whose husband is originally from Mt. Pleasant, spoke about the importance of civility and authenticity in politics and her experiences as a legislator. Mr. Higdon’s speech was greeted with loud cheers when he announced that all Tennessee counties now have active Democratic Party organizations. This is the first time in many years that the TNDP has had active county affiliates in all 95 counties.

Originally called the Heritage Dinner, the Maury County Democratic Party has held an annual fundraising dinner for over 20 years. The event was jointly sponsored by the United Auto Workers Local 1853 CAP Committee and other local individuals and businesses. The dinner helps to fund the MCDP. A silent auction organized by the Maury County Democratic Women also raised $1,285 for their group.

This year’s award winners are:

• Ms. Vicki Hale (Jerry and Linda Colley True Democrat Award)

• Ms. Cindy Sims, of the Center of Hope (Judge Jimmy Mathews Community Service Award)

• Ms. Kassi Fox, of E.A. Cox Middle School (H.O. Porter Educator of the Year Award)

• Mr. Tre’veontae Martin (Ty Cobb Young Democrat Award)

• Ms. Celia Parrott (Maury County Democratic Women “Life of the Party” Award)

Biographies and photos of award winners are available on our website, maurydems.org.

Size-Up Maury (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance for a dynamic Lunch & Learn session and discover how to leverage SizeUp Maury—a powerful, interactive business intelligence tool designed to help small and medium-sized businesses grow and compete smarter.

Whether you're launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, SizeUp Maury provides free access to market research, industry data, competitive analysis, and more—all customized for Maury County businesses.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Benchmark your business against local and national competitors

• Identify new customers and suppliers using geographic and demographic insights

• Optimize your marketing by targeting ideal customers

• Make data-driven decisions using real-time market intelligence

Event Details:

Date: July 16 

Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Location: Attend in person or virtually from anywhere

Fees:

• Virtual Attendance: $15

• In-Person Attendance: $25 (includes lunch)

Don't miss this opportunity to explore how SizeUp Maury can help your business thrive in today's competitive landscape!

Leadership Maury (Press Release)

Leadership Maury is a countywide personal development program designed to motivate participants to develop and enhance the quality of their leadership in addressing pertinent community needs. The program is open to people who live, work, or make a significant contribution to Maury County through volunteer work. Class members meet with local decision-makers in several sectors of the community, such as business, government, health, public services and agriculture. Participants will visit places all over the county to hear speakers and participate in activities to help them learn about Maury County and how to positively impact where they live, learn, work and play. 

Applications are available now!

Visit www.mauryalliance.com to apply.

Deadline to apply is July 15, 2025.

The purpose of the Leadership Maury program is TO:

• Help leaders prepare for volunteer responsibility in the community.

• Provide these leaders with a practical and sophisticated understanding of major problems and opportunities facing Maury County.

• Facilitate access between emerging leaders and the current leadership of the community.

• Improve the communications network among leaders with diverse backgrounds and interests.

• Create a setting for persons of demonstrated commitment to the community to meet and exchange ideas.

• Stimulate increased community participation and commitment.

Spring Hill: The Event (Press Release)

The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce is excited to invite the community to Experience Spring Hill, The Event—a free, family-friendly celebration presented by TriStar Spring Hill ER. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Battle Creek High School, where local innovation, culture, and community come together under one roof.

Experience Spring Hill, The Event is a showcase of local innovation, where neighbors and newcomers unite to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant culture that define our community.

“This event is all about connection—connecting families to fun, businesses to customers, and neighbors to each other,” said Rebecca Melton, former Executive Director of the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident, you'll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the people and businesses that make our community thrive.”

Event Highlights Include:

• 150+ Local Vendors spotlighting the businesses and organizations that power Spring Hill’s growth

• Touch-a-Truck Zone with emergency vehicles, construction equipment, and more

• Live Performances from local dance, fitness, and martial arts groups

• Family Activities like face painting, balloon art, games, and special character appearances

• Food Court featuring a variety of local flavors

• Giveaways & Prizes throughout the day

• City Showcase & Tennessee Travels highlighting local services and travel ideas

Who Should Attend?

• Families looking for a fun and meaningful day out

• Local residents eager to support and explore their community

• Newcomers hoping to feel more at home in Spring Hill

• Admission is Free – RSVP Today!

Visit www.experiencespringhill.com/experience-spring-hill-event to learn more and RSVP.

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

Duane Neely, 79, passed away Friday, June 6, 2025, in Spring Hill. A private family service will be held to honor his life. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, June 29, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs. All who knew and loved Duane are welcome to attend and share memories.

Mrs. Phyllis Regena Hartsfield, 77, retired nurse who served at Maury Regional Medical Center, resident of Columbia TN, passed away Tuesday June 10, 2025 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 am at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home with Charlie Norman officiating. Burial will follow at Philadelphia Cemetery. The family will visit with friends on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4:00 pm till 7:00 pm at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered online at www.oakesandnichols.com.

And now, news from around the state…

Army Training Fatality (CDH)

A soldier was killed in an aviation training exercise at Fort Campbell the evening of June 11.

An aviation incident in the Fort Campbell training area involving two servicemembers occurred at approximately 7 p.m., a Fort Campbell media release said.

Emergency services responded immediately. One soldier was confirmed as deceased.

The other injured soldier was taken to Blanchfield Army Community Hospital in Clarksville and is in stable condition.

The names of those involved are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin is notified, the Fort Campbell release said. A spokesperson said no other information is being shared at this time.

The incident is under investigation.

The June 5 death of another Fort Campbell soldier Sgt. Aaron Cox, 24, is being investigated, which occurred during a vehicle training exercise near Camp Croft, Hungary.

Cox died as a result of wounds from a vehicle accident during preparations for the upcoming Exercise Saber Guardian 25 in Hungary, a Fort Campbell media release said.

Over the years, several aviation deaths during training exercises have occurred involving Fort Campbell service men and women.

One of the deadliest aviation training crashes occurred on March 29, 2023 when nine Fort Campbell soldiers, nicknamed the "Dustoff Nine", were killed after two HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters collided in Trigg County during a routine medical training exercise, while using night vision goggles.

The nine soldiers, ranged in age from 23 to 36. A year after the tragedy, a monument honoring the "Dustoff Nine" was unveiled on Memorial Row at Fort Campbell.

Gas Prices (MSM)

For the second week in a row, the Tennessee Gas Price average is $2.70, that’s four cents less than a month ago and $0.33 cents less than this time last year. Tennessee now has the third lowest state average- behind Mississippi ($2.63) and Oklahoma ($2.69).  

“Tennessee’s average gas price is holding steady again this week with unseasonably low gas prices,” said Stephanie Milani, public affairs director, AAA — The Auto Club Group. “Demand for gasoline is helping to keep gas prices low to begin the summer driving season. It’s giving those who are traveling a nice savings in their road trip budget.”

Tennessee is third least-expensive state in nation for gas prices

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

There is no better time of year to bring home a fresh batch of locally grown produce at the seventh annual Highland Realm Blueberry Bash.

The annual festival will run from 3-8 p.m. at Highland Realm Blueberry Farm, 4443 Hampshire Pike. Entry is $5 per person, with kids ages five and under for free.

In addition to fresh blueberry picking, the Blueberry Bash will feature live music from Yonder Grove, several craft vendors and food trucks (including a margarita and beer truck).

Activities will include horseback riding, a giant water slide, creek wading and outdoor games.

For more information, email Highland Realm at highlandrealmblueberries@gmail.com.