Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 6-18-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for June 18, 2026

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

Duck River Conservancy Celebrates Win (MSM)

Threatening storms Saturday evening hurried along the celebration event for the Duck River Conservancy’s recent victory with the river declared a class II pastoral scenic river, now protected by Tennessee law.

Spirits were not dampened by the rain that held off until the abbreviated end as the Duck River Conservancy gathered local political leaders and community advocates to recognize the work of several individuals.

Governor Bill Lee signed the river’s scenic protection into law on May 5, bringing one chapter of a long running state campaign to a close – one that will safeguard the river for generations to come.

The law ensures safeguards from development and other prohibited actions for the biodiverse life forms within its clear waters and supports a clean healthy river to anyone enjoying Duck life above the water.

Multiple Tennessee counties that reside along the Duck, have been engaged in a concerted effort where normal political divisions fall to the wayside for a common goal of protecting the vital Tennessee water source.

Bill sponsor and the most influential voice in the Tennessee General Assembly for the bill’s final hours, Representative Pat Marsh was acknowledged for his work in seeing the bill through to the final vote.

Though not in attendance, Senator Kerry Roberts was also recognized for his sponsorship of the version of the bill that passed through the Senate.

While speakers shared some of the important features of the river, they also noted, “The work has just started.”

This new chapter, referring to the next major concern for Duck River advocates, is supplying water for the nearly quarter of a million Tennesseans who depend on the river and the utility companies that help manage that need.

A total of 54 million gallons is pumped out of the Duck River daily, with utility companies saying that need will increase the pull to 73 million gallons per day.

Host Gary Baker, who is on the board of the conservancy, shared gratitude that the river was protected by scenic protections, but said, “In about 10 years, it will be a big scenic ditch” if further action isn’t taken.

“We can develop to our heart’s desire, but we must do it intelligently,” Baker said. He added that the touted 20-year timeline for reaching a critical water shortage falls sooner than that.

The need for more water can be expected in about half that time, Baker said. He noted with a pipeline, those familiar with the matter said it could be a 500-year fix, pumping as much as 60 million gallons a day back into the river.

“We need water pumping back in, nine years from now,” Baker said. “[The pipeline] has to be built.”

Baker stressed that those who have protected the river thus far bear the responsibility of carrying forward with the work to continue saving the river for future generations.  

Conservancy Chairman, Doug Jones said, “We brought the hammer and the leadership … but don’t forget, we’re not finished yet.”

Friends of the Duck board member and community leader in the charge to protect the Duck River, Sarah Gilliam was honored with a Stewardship Award by the Conservancy.

“I love this river, and I’m so glad I get to share this and enjoy it with you,” Gilliam said.

Marsh received a framed aerial photograph of his home located right on the Duck River.

Other awards included a framed copy of the bill that was passed along with a copy of the vote count and signatures from all who supported the bill.

“This wasn’t just me,” Marsh said, accepting his award. “This was a team effort; keep fighting; it’ll be worth it.”

City of Columbia Adopts Budget (Press Release)

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, the Columbia City Council approved the City’s fiscal year 2026–2027 budget on final consideration. The adopted budget totals $84,446,601 across all funds and was approved without a property tax increase, while continuing to support and enhance essential City services.

The FY 2026–2027 budget reflects strategic, plan-driven investments across City departments, with a continued emphasis on supporting City employees. The budget includes a 4% salary increase for all personnel, helping strengthen the City’s ability to recruit and retain a talented workforce.

Mayor Chaz Molder stated, “The adoption of this budget represents a significant step forward for our city and reflects the continued growth and progress of our community. It demonstrates our commitment to responsible financial planning, strategic infrastructure investments, and delivering high-quality services to our residents. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff whose expertise and hard work make this process possible each year. Their efforts have produced a budget that addresses both current priorities and future opportunities. The investments outlined in this plan will support important improvements throughout the city, and I’m excited to see these projects take shape.”

The General Fund accounts for 61% of the total budget, with $51,444,978 allocated to the City’s primary operating fund. The FY 2027 General Fund budget includes a $1.5 million (3.3%) revenue increase driven by continued economic growth. The General Fund supports many of Columbia’s core services, including public works, parks, fire, police, and administration.

City Manager Tony Massey remarked, “This budget reflects a strong commitment to responsible financial management, operational excellence, and delivering the high-quality services our residents expect and deserve.”

The adopted budget also advances several major capital projects and initiatives. Nearly $92.7 million is allocated for the City’s FY 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The five-year CIP includes major multi-year projects such as the City’s annual contribution to the TDOT partnership project to widen Bear Creek, improvements at the Nashville Highway and Bear Creek Pike intersection, the Iron Bridge replacement project, technology and capital equipment replacements, wastewater treatment plant construction, pump station upgrades, and street resurfacing. FY 2027 CIP funding, as proposed, totals approximately $49.2 million with 23.3% of funds programmed in the Capital

Projects Fund and 53.6% programmed in the Wastewater (Sewer) Fund.

Assistant City Manager and CFO Thad Jablonski noted, “The adopted budget balances fiscal responsibility with meaningful investment in the community. With no changes to tax rates or fees, it maintains the City’s strong financial footing while advancing infrastructure improvements that support residents, businesses, and the services they rely on.”

To learn more and view the FY 2026–2027 Budget in Brief, visit ColumbiaTN.gov.

Columbia State Hosts Foundation Board (Press Release)

The Columbia State Community College Foundation recently hosted a luncheon in the Pryor Art Gallery, where board members, alumni and award recipients were recognized for their service to the college and community.

To begin, Stacy Shedd, Foundation Board chair, recognized five Foundation Board trustees whose terms ended. Those members included Byron Davis, Rena Purdy, Donna Roberts, Pam Stephens and Susan Whitaker.

The first award given was the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Philanthropy, presented to Rogers Group Incorporated.

The Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Philanthropy was established in March 2001 as a way of recognizing outstanding community partners who donate their resources and efforts to Tennessee Board of Regents colleges. Honorees are selected through a Donor Recognition Committee comprised of representatives from Tennessee community and technical colleges, donors, Trustees, Regents and employees.

Since 1999, Rogers Group Inc. has supported Columbia State’s annual Lewisburg-based J.R. Moon Golf Classic by entering teams and being active participants. 

The group’s investment grew as they became the title sponsor for the J.R. Moon Golf Classic in 2010. Their commitment has carried through today, as their continued support of the event has provided a reliable groundwork for the event’s sustained success. To date, the Rogers Group's sponsorship, along with funds raised, totals $260,000 for student support.

“Rogers Group plays a vital role in the local economy,” said Cris Perkins, College System of Tennessee assistant vice chancellor for strategic advancement. “By creating jobs and supporting local families, the Rogers Group strengthens the communities from which Columbia State students come. Their dedication to community reflects their broader mission and values across the 13 states they serve. Rogers Group is consistently recognized for its community-focused leadership, earning numerous awards that highlight their commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and local investments.”

“Your steadfast support of the college, and of the J.R. Moon Golf Classic, is an honor in and of itself,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “It is an honor for your community that you are dedicated to, and to the students in that area, because you've helped to make the golf tournament what it is today.” 

For the next award presentation, Nell Evers received the President’s Award of Honor for Distinguished Service.

The President’s Award of Honor for Distinguished Service is the highest honor bestowed upon community members by the Office of the President in conjunction with the Office of Advancement. It is presented to those for their meritorious service in furthering the interests of Columbia State or for bringing honor to the college through their professional or community endeavors.

Evers has been engaged in supporting Columbia State for over 28 years. Her generosity extends to areas across the college, supporting scholarships, development funds, the annual Legislators and Community Leaders’ Breakfast and the First Farmers Performance Series.

The Nell Evers Nursing Scholarship was established in 1998, and in 2006, the endowed Nell Evers Nursing Fund was created with the purpose of providing state-of-the-art equipment and other support for the Columbia State nursing program.

“Nell is a friend to Columbia State and the community,” Lay said. “She reflects the community part of the college's name and has made a lasting impact through the lives touched. Consistency does it, and Nell has been a consistent friend of Columbia State. We are very honored and thankful for our relationship. We are very thankful for your support and all the things that you have made possible.”

She served on the Foundation board from 2007 to 2013 and was chair of the Community Relations Committee from 2009 to 2010. The personal and business relationships she and her family have established have benefited the college and the community.

“I don't think you can find a lady who’s more lovely,” Smith said. “From heart, to work, to concern, to care: that's Nell Evers. I met her when I first came to Columbia State. She was on the Foundation Board at that time and was just so welcoming. She was kind and the type of person you like being around. She was the one who gives you a smile, always uplifting and always caring. The service that you do that you've given to the college, to this community, and to our students, we say thank you for all that you do for all of us.”

The final award given went to Jennifer Grisham, who received the President’s Award of Honor for Distinguished Alumni. 

The President’s Award of Honor for Distinguished Alumni is the highest honor bestowed upon alumni of Columbia State and is given by the Office of the President in conjunction with the Office of Advancement. It is presented to those alumni for their meritorious service in furthering the interests of Columbia State or for bringing honor to the college through their professional or community endeavors.

Grisham was part of Columbia State’s inaugural class in 1966, where she majored in English and math. Following her graduation from Columbia State, she went on to receive a degree in psychology from Vanderbilt University. She also attended the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.

To pursue her passion for art, Grisham retired early. Her works now span multiple mediums and subjects, including portraits, sculptures, jewelry and more. Her works are in private and public collections, including the bronze bust of Lady Bird Johnson in Columbia State’s Harold S. Pryor Administration Building, the life-size bronze statues of President James K. Polk and First Lady Sarah Childress Polk at Preservation Park in downtown Columbia, as well as other works such as the Minnie Pearl bronze statue in Centerville, and various county courthouses.

“Grisham is recognized not only for artistic excellence, but for using art to strengthen civic pride, preserve local history and enhance quality of life throughout Middle Tennessee,” Lay said. “She reflects the mission of Columbia State through creativity, service and determination, while making a lasting impact on the community and region.”

“You can't get much more distinguished than Jennifer Grisham,” Smith said. “Her art, her business, her development in our community is where she carries the name of Columbia State. She is an example of who we are and what we do as a college. And to be part of the first graduating class, she is carrying forward the philosophy of Columbia State, the dedication of it to this community and showing what opportunities can come just from a rural college sitting in a field that grew up in 1966. We thank you for all that you do. We thank you for the support that you give our community and community college. We're very proud that you wear the title Columbia State alum.”

To conclude the luncheon, the Foundation recognized Columbia State student Ava Duke, a political science major.

Duke has accepted an internship position in Governor Bill Lee’s Office in Boards and Commissions. She is the first TBR community college student to be accepted into the governor’s office internship program.

While taking classes primarily on the Williamson Campus, she is very involved in college organizations and activities. Duke is a member of the President’s Leadership Society and Phi Theta Kappa honor society. For the 2026-2027 academic year, she will serve as Student Government Association president and as vice president of the Middle Tennessee Region for PTK. 

“Her engagement and her desire to learn as much as she can is what being an active student is all about at Columbia State,” Smith said. “Engaging and taking advantage of what’s here.”

The Columbia State Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports and partners with the college to positively impact student success and the communities in which it serves. For more information, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Foundation.

Jail Fire Historic Marker (Press Release)

The City of Columbia will host a ceremony later this month to unveil a historical marker commemorating the Maury County Jail Fire of June 26, 1977, a tragedy that claimed 42 lives.

The event will take place Friday, June 26, at 3 p.m. at the Maury County Archives, located at 201 E. 6th Street in Columbia.

According to the City of Columbia, the ceremony will honor those who lost their lives in the fire, recognize the lasting impact the tragedy had on the community, and preserve the memory of a significant event in both local and national history.

The 1977 Maury County Jail Fire remains deadliest correctional facility fire in Tennessee and the second-deadliest in United States history.

The public is invited to attend the historical marker unveiling ceremony.

Food Truck Thursdays (Press Release)

Columbia Main Street is inviting the community this summer to “Food Truck Thursdays,” a new weekly event series taking place every Thursday in June and July from 4 – 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Park in Downtown Columbia. 

Located right off the Downtown District, the Farmers Market Pavilion at Riverwalk Park will be transformed into a gathering space for Food Truck Thursdays. This event will feature a rotating lineup of local food trucks, offering residents and visitors a variety of food options each week. 

In addition to great food, Columbia Main Street will provide a variety of free yard games for attendees to enjoy while spending time with family and friends. Games will include Connect 4, Tic-Tac-Toe, Ring Toss and more. 

The event is being spearheaded by Columbia Main Street Board Members Marvin Brooks and John “Tee” Davis.

“Food Truck Thursdays were created to give the community a common space where people can gather and show support for the local food trucks that are such an important part of Columbia’s community,” said Brooks and Davis said in a joint statement. 

Food Truck Thursdays will take place on the following dates: June 4, June 11, June 18, June 25, July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23 and July 30. 

Food truck operators interested in participating in the series are encouraged to contact Columbia Main Street Manager Kelli Johnson at kjohnson@columbiatn.gov for more information. For updates on weekly food truck lineups and other downtown events, follow Columbia Main Street on social media.

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

Martha Ann Allen Covington, 69, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Life Care Center of Columbia.

Funeral service will be conducted Friday, June 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family ask those attending the funeral service, please bring you Bibles to the service. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. 

Mr. Ronald Everette Young, 81, of Pelham, Alabama, passed away peacefully on June 7. A private graveside service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Columbia, Tennessee. A memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. EST on Sunday, June 21 at New Hope Presbyterian Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Mrs. Monnette Fulcher Bruner, 62, passed away Thursday, June 4 at Camden General Hospital. Memorial services will be conducted on Sunday, June 28 at 4:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family will visit with friends on Sunday from 2:00 PM till the time of service at the funeral home.

Mrs. Helen Marie Jones Coble, 60, a resident of Santa Fe, TN, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, June 9. A Celebration of Life will be conducted on Sunday, June 28 at 2:00 PM at Santa Fe Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The family will visit with friends on Sunday from 12:00 PM until the time of the service at the Church.

Robert Grey Scott of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away on June 11, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia.

A private family graveside service will be at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery. Condolences may be extended online at www.oakesandnichols.com.

And now, news from around the state…

Franklin Addresses Parking (WilliamsonScene)

The city of Franklin announced its Park Franklin parking study on June 3 to address questions surrounding Central Franklin's current parking situation. The goal is to create a parking strategy that supports the city's continued growth, re-evaluates paid parking practices, and identifies infrastructure improvements that will help places like West Main Street and Columbia Avenue stay safe and economically vital.

"Parking is one of the most important issues for a thriving downtown," Franklin Mayor Ken Moore said in a statement. "This study gives Franklin an opportunity to share what's working, what's not, and what matters most as Franklin continues to grow. The city wants to hear input from downtown business owners, customers, employees and visitors as well as residents. Our community's input is valuable to our decision-making."

This isn't the first time Franklin has introduced potential new methods for its streets, though.

In 2018, the city reduced on-street parking on Main Street from a four-hour to a two-hour limit during business hours. In the summer of 2025, the new Bicentennial Park added paved surface parking and overflow grass parking. The City Hall redevelopment on Public Square will add an additional 130 parking spaces in 2027. And the two parking garages have sensors that allow visitors to see how many spots are left.

Walker Consultants and a local Franklin office of STV are completing the parking study. It focuses on three areas: community input, data collection, and stakeholder conversations. Once the survey closes, the project team will analyze it and share key findings that will impact the next steps.

As part of the study, there is a survey open to the public until July 10 with questions about parking experience in Franklin. To find the survey, visit www.input.franklintn.gov.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The beloved summer tradition, Springer Mountain Farms Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman, officially returns next week. Celebrating the historic venue’s legacy as the birthplace of bluegrass music, this six-show series brings fans face-to-face with some of the biggest names and most celebrated artists in the genre.

Every Tuesday night concert starts at 7:30 PM inside the historic auditorium. Guests are also invited to arrive early for WSM Radio’s free “Pickin’ on PNC Plaza” pre-show performances, which begin at 5:30 PM and feature live music from regional bluegrass artists.

Single show tickets and season passes are on sale now at ryman.com.