Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 6-24-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for June 24, 2026

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

Teen Killed at Race Track (MauryCountySource)

A Maury County teenager has died following a racing accident at Duck River Raceway Park, leaving the local racing community and Santa Fe High School mourning his loss.

Norman Bentlee Potts, 17, a member of Santa Fe High School’s Class of 2027, died after a crash during a racing event at the Maury County track.

In a statement released following the accident, Duck River Raceway Park described Potts as a valued member of its racing family and expressed condolences to his loved ones.

“With a heavy heart, we share the loss of Bentlee Potts following a tragic accident at Duck River Raceway Park,” the statement said.

Track owners Russell and Angie said the tragedy has deeply affected racers, fans, and the broader racing community.

“Bentlee wasn’t just another racer who came through our gates. He was part of our racing family. He had a passion for the sport and a love for being at the racetrack,” they said.

Santa Fe High School also shared a statement remembering Potts and the impact he had on students and staff. The school described Potts as a cherished member of the school community.

“His presence will be greatly missed throughout our halls and classrooms,” the school said. Students and staff looked forward to hearing his NASCAR updates during the school’s morning televised announcements, according to the statement.

A GoFundMe has been created to help the family with expenses following the tragedy. A visitation for Bentlee will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Accident (MauryCountySource)

Maury County Fire Department crews responded Sunday to a rollover crash that resulted in ejection on Mooresville Pike.

According to the department, District 23 heard the crash from his home and arrived on scene as the call was being dispatched.

Authorities located the victim, who was later airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Additional details condition of the victim have not been released.

Spring Hill Man Receives Carnegie Medal (MSM)

A Spring Hill man has received a Carnegie Medal for rescuing his son from a house fire last August.

According to a Carnegie Foundation news release, Brandon Rorer, a 36-year-old treasury analyst, saw a fire break out on the back deck of his home on Aug. 25. As the fire spread and black smoke filled the home, his son, Silas, 7, was at the doorway of his second-floor bedroom.

Rorer had re-entered the home on the basement level after attempting to put out the fire when he learned that Silas had not escaped with his mother and sister.

Rorer ran up two flights of stairs and followed his son’s voice but was unable to reach him through the thick smoke and tremendous heat from the fire. On his fourth attempt, he found Silas, picked him up, and ran down the stairs and out of the house.

Silas was hospitalized for two days and treated for minor burns on his face, ear and arm. He also had smoke inhalation injuries, but he has recovered, according to the news release.

Rorer was taken to the hospital in critical condition, suffering second-degree thermal burns to his head, chest, and arm, as well as a serious smoke inhalation injury. He was hospitalized for three weeks and is still recovering, according to the news release.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission awarded medals to 18 individuals this year, including four who died during their act of heroism. Among those saved by this quarter’s Carnegie Medal recipients were six children.

The Carnegie Medal is given throughout the U.S. and Canada to those who enter extreme danger while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. The Carnegie Medal has been awarded to 10,581 individuals since the inception of the Pittsburgh-based Fund in 1904.

Spring Hill Budget Passes (MSM)

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved the city’s $151.7 million fiscal year 2026-2027 budget last week, completing months of budget discussions and setting spending priorities for the coming year while maintaining the current property tax rate. 

The board unanimously approved the second and final reading of the ordinance, adopting a budget that includes 11 new staff positions, three reclassified positions, increased state-shared sales tax revenues and funding for city operations and services. 

The budget follows a first reading approved June 1 and includes a general fund beginning balance of $27.4 million, a water and sewer fund balance of $36.2 million and projected increases across several city funds by the end of the fiscal year. 

The board also approved an ordinance keeping the city’s property tax rate rate at $0.739 per $100 of assessed value. 

According to the State Board of Equalization, the certified tax rate for both Maury and Williamson county sides of the city is $0.6476 per $100 of assessed value. State law requires additional public notice and hearing procedures when a municipality adopts a rate higher than the certified rate. 

City officials estimate maintaining the current rate will generate approximately $3.1 million in additional property tax revenue. 

City Administrator J. Carter Napier thanked city staff and department leaders for their work in developing the budget. 

“I would like to thank the tireless work of the finance team, who were very effective in coordinating these efforts, the department heads for providing details and numbers that are aimed at a very responsible and reasonable approach to providing the services they oversee, and the employees who utilize a very effective approach to provide the quality services they do,” Napier said.

The approved budget will be sent to the State Comptroller for final approval, and both ordinances will take effect July 1.

Mt. Pleasant Budget (MSM)

Mount Pleasant city leaders are considering a proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget that would increase property tax revenue, fund major infrastructure and public safety operations, and maintain healthy fund balances across city departments despite concerns from residents over the city’s tax rate.

The proposed budget includes more than $7.3 million in general fund revenues and expenditures while establishing spending plans for the city’s street, storm-water, sanitation, water and sewer, and gas operations.

The general fund is expected to generate most of its revenue through property taxes, local sales taxes and state-shared revenues.

Property tax collections are projected to increase significantly following the adoption of the city’s new tax rate of $1.4974 per $100 of assessed value.

The proposed rate has drawn criticism from residents, who voiced frustration during public comments. Several residents questioned why taxes continue to increase despite the state’s certified tax rate process, with one resident arguing that the city has imposed excessive tax rates on citizens for decades. Others expressed confusion as to why the tax rate has not stabilized or decreased following recent property reassessments.

Based on the proposed revenues and expenditures, the general fund is expected to finish the fiscal year with a surplus of approximately $18,800, increasing the fund balance to roughly $3.35 million.

Public safety remains one of the city’s largest spending priorities. Combined funding for the fire department along with the building and codes department totals approximately $2.3 million, while the police department is budgeted at $2.21 million.

Street operations are projected to receive almost $937,000, while finance and administration expenditures are estimated at approximately $554,000.

The budget also includes a transfer of $451,500 to the debt service fund to cover bond and loan obligations. City officials anticipate spending more than $449,000 on principal and interest payments during the fiscal year.

The State Street Aid fund is projected to receive approximately $1.39 million in revenue while spending $1.55 million. Transportation improvements account for much of the planned spending, including a $1.32 million sidewalk and crosswalk grant project.

The newly established Storm Water Special Revenue fund will receive a $250,000 transfer from the general fund and is projected to end the fiscal year with a balance of approximately $175,000.

The proposed budget also outlines the city’s outstanding debt obligations. By the end of FY 2026-27, Mount Pleasant is expected to carry approximately $6.64 million in general fund debt, $13.4 million in water and sewer debt, $88,000 in sanitation fund debt and $136,000 in gas fund debt.

New Docs at Columbia Endocrinology (Press Release)

Dr. Deepti Bulchandani, MD, and Michelle Kennedy, FNP-C, have joined the staff at Maury Regional Medical Group (MRMG) Endocrinology.

 Dr. Bulchandani, received her medical degree from Masharata University of Health Sciences in Mumbai, India. She completed a residency at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, Missouri. She also completed a fellowship in endocrinology at the University of Kansas in Kansas City, Kansas. Bulchandani is board-certified in endocrinology and internal medicine.

Kennedy completed her undergraduate and graduate school studies at the University of North Alabama in Florence, Alabama. She has worked at Maury Regional Medical Center since 2009 and previously held the position of diabetes coordinator.

At the practice, Dr. Bulchandani and Kennedy join Brenda Goodwin, MD; Bushra Osmani, MD; and Karalyn Champion, FNP-C. Conditions treated include adrenal disorders, diabetes management, osteoporosis, parathyroid disorders, pituitary gland disorders and thyroid health. For treatment at MRMG Endocrinology, patients should be referred by their primary care physician.

MRMG Endocrinology is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The practice is located at 854 W. James Campbell Blvd., Suite 100, in Columbia. For more information, call 931.490.7050 or visit MauryRegional.com/Endocrinology.

Columbia State Opens New Exhibition (MSM)

After exhibiting the curated works of local artists for two months, the Pryor Art Gallery at Columbia State Community College will turn the spotlight on works from its permanent collection.

“Rhythm & Form: Selections from the Permanent Collection” features sculptures gifted from the estate of David Herbert Goerss, along with abstract paintings from the collection. When the exhibition is over, the works now collected in the Pryor Gallery will be redistributed back throughout the campuses; for now, “Rhythm & Form” offers visitors the chance to view them all in one place.

Columbia State Community College has a permanent collection of art with over 200 pieces, displayed across Columbia State’s five campuses. This collection is made possible by the generosity of Pryor’s donors and the support of the Columbia State Foundation.

“We are so fortunate to have a permanent collection that is full of unique and impactful works of art,” said Tori Zemer, the new director of the Gallery. “Whether they inspire a burst of energy or a moment of respite, these pieces serve our student body year-round. It is a pleasure to be able to present them in a way that makes them accessible for the public to enjoy as well.”

The exhibit, which is free and open to the public, will run from now to July 24. The gallery is open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. from Monday through Thursday, and from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday.

America 250th Celebration (Press Release)

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

As part of the America 250 commemoration, the City has launched Columbia250USA.com, a dedicated microsite 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 the "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 the 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 and inspire future generations. As we recognize America's 250th anniversary throughout 2026, Columbia is proud to celebrate our shared history while looking ahead to the future we are building together."

The City encourages residents and visitors to explore the stories of Columbia's Architects of History by visiting Columbia250USA.com.

The America 250 Independence Day weekend celebration will kick off on Friday, July 3, as the City of Columbia partners with Columbia Main Street for a special USA 250th themed First Fridays event in downtown Columbia from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The patriotic celebration will feature live music from the Main Stage, musicians and buskers performing throughout downtown, and a family-friendly Game Zone for all ages. Attendees are encouraged to show their patriotic spirit by wearing red, white, and blue, stars and stripes, patriotic t-shirts, or festive Americana-inspired attire.

Residents and visitors alike are invited to join the community in celebrating Columbia's history, America's heritage, and the people whose contributions continue to shape the city today.

For more information about Columbia's America 250 initiatives and upcoming events, visit Columbia250USA.com.

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…

Norman Bentlee Potts, 17, a resident of Williamsport, TN, passed away unexpectedly on June 20, 2026, in Bedford County, TN, doing what he loved.

A visitation for Bentlee will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Mrs. Kim Anna McCormack Feuerbacher (Foyerbacher), 62, a resident of Culleoka, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, June 21, surrounded by her loving family. The family will visit with friends on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The visitation will conclude with memories and reflections of Kim's life shared by family and friends. On Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM family and friends are invited to gather at Campbell Station Restaurant 2800 Dodson Gap Road Culleoka, TN.

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.

And now, news from around the state…

MTSU Tuition to Increase (MSM)

Middle Tennessee State University’s Board of Trustees at its June 16 meeting approved a 4.49 percent increase in tuition and fees starting this fall. It is the fourth consecutive year that the university board has raised tuition and fees.

The fall 2026 increase will add $497 per year to the cost of a full-time student taking 15 credit hours per semester, according to an MTSU news release.

The board did not raise tuition or fees in the 2021-2022 and the 2022-2023 academic years. In June of 2025, the board unanimously approved a 6.49% increase in tuition and fees for undergraduate and graduate rates. That was an increase of about $300 in costs per semester for a fulltime student.

According to the news release, the increase was needed to cover mainly scholarships, faculty support, new programs and rising costs. The news release says that MTSU remains the most affordable of the state’s three major public universities.

The news release said that also at the meeting, MTSU’s board also outlined the process it will follow to hire a president to replace Sidney A. McPhee, who will step down from his leadership role at the end of this year.

Board Chairman Stephen B. Smith said a Presidential Search Committee will be appointed by July and will engage key stakeholders for input on the position profile, to be released by September. Trustees will soon sign a contract with an executive recruitment firm.

The committee will review applications by October and identify up to three finalists for the presidency, Smith said. The finalists will be invited to campus for interviews and public forums in November and December.

Smith said he anticipates calling a special Trustees meeting by December to make the appointment.

The board also approved a capital project submittal to the state for a $144.5 million second phase of the Department of Aerospace’s flight training facility under construction in Shelbyville.

The second phase would be needed to support other Aerospace concentrations beyond flight training now in Murfreesboro.

The appointment of James Bridgeforth as vice president for student affairs and dean of students was approved. Bridgeforth, the assistant vice president at Virginia Tech, will begin at MTSU on July 1.

State extends MTSU board for four years

The Tennessee Government Operations Joint Evaluation Committee voted unanimously on June 17 to extend the Middle Tennessee State University Board of Trustees for another four years.

Board Chair Stephen B. Smith and President Sidney A. McPhee appeared before lawmakers for a sunset hearing, during which the committee reviews and approves the continued operation of state-funded agencies, programs and boards.

Smith told the lawmakers that the board remains focused on financial management, student success, and responsible stewardship of state resources.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Priscilla Presley is bringing a special evening of storytelling and reflection to The Mulehouse in Columbia on August 15.

The entertainment icon will share a rare look into her personal life and career through private film footage, including wedding films, home movies and memorable moments from her work in film and television. The evening will also feature clips from Dallas, where Presley was a leading cast member for five seasons.

During the event, Presley will reflect on her life, career and her years with Elvis Presley. As the only woman to have married Elvis, she offers a personal perspective on their relationship, sharing stories about how they met, the bond they shared and the experiences that shaped her place in one of music’s most iconic stories.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Priscilla Presley to The Mulehouse,” said Amy Fish, Director of Concerts & Private Events in a release. “Hosting this special signature event is a tremendous privilege, and we look forward to sharing an unforgettable evening with our community and guests from across the region.”

Audiences across the country have praised the event for its intimate, personal feel, with many describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The event takes place on August 15 at The Mulehouse in Columbia. Learn more at www.themulehouse.com.