Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 7-24-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for July 24, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Columbia House Fire (MauryCountySource)

Maury County Fire responded to a reported house fire on Woolard Rd on Tuesday afternoon at 1:47 pm. A passerby stated that flames were through the roof of the structure.

Upon arrival, units found a home approximately 80% involved and pulled two hand lines to contain the fire. Two dogs were quickly found inside the home; unfortunately, they did not make it. Units operated for almost three hours on scene in extreme heat.

Agencies on scene/involved:

Maury County 911

Maury County Office Of Emergency Management

Maury Regional Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Maury County Sheriff’s Department

Molder to Run for Congress (CDH)

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder has confirmed July 23 he will not be seeking a third term as mayor and is contemplating running for the 5th Congressional District seat.

His current tenure expires in 2026.

Molder, who was first elected in 2018, and was at the time as the youngest mayor in Tennessee, confirmed with The Daily Herald yesterday of his intent to not seek reelection. He soon posted a video to social media declaring his decision.

Mayor Molder, who took the reigns from Dean Dickey in 2018, stated, "This was not an easy decision, but I feel like it is the right decision, and it's the right time to make this announcement, rather than wait for later," Molder said in the July 23 video.

He does not mention his interest in the 5th Congressional District seat, currently held by U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tennessee, in the video, but alludes to it.

"As for me, some of you might have heard that I am considering a few options. More on that later," Molder said.

Molder separately shared a statement with various media outlets:

“We deserve a congressman who wants to go to Washington to make local headlines for the right reasons, instead of attempting to make national headlines for the wrong reasons,” Molder said. “Our current congressman’s latest antics of attacking Belmont University are disturbing and are becoming too familiar to all of us in the 5th Congressional District. For these reasons, I can confirm I am strongly considering this race – not because of encouragement from outsiders, but because of encouragement from those who live inside the district.”

Ogles has recently been outspoken on his efforts to encourage denaturalization of New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, bring a lawsuit against Belmont University over supposed DEI practices and advocate for President Donald Trump to serve a third term.  

Molder later told The Daily Herald that his job as mayor for almost eight years has been "a dream come true."

"The honor of a lifetime," Molder said.

"The city of Columbia has so much to be proud of, and so much to look forward to. I am confident the next mayor will be able to build on our accomplishments and chart their own course. In the meantime, I have a term to complete, a job to finish and I intend to finish the mission."

Molder defeated mayoral challenger Maury County Republican leader and realtor Debbie Matthews in November 2022.

Born and raised in Columbia, Molder is a product of Columbia's public schools, a graduate of the University of Tennessee, and law school graduate of the University of Memphis. Chaz returned home in 2009 to pursue his childhood dream of "raising a family, practicing law, and pursuing a political career."

Throughout his tenure, Molder has advocated to expand Columbia's water plant, to help save McDowell school as a former MCPS student and disagreed with then Maury County Mayor Andy Ogles during Covid mandates.

He said the best days for Columbia are ahead.

"There will be plenty of people who will want this office, and for that, I am so proud," Molder said. "They will have opinions about how Columbia should look like in the years to come, and hopefully chart their own course which will enhance Columbia's momentum and progress."

Beef Farmers Concerned for Future (CDH)

As the beef industry across the state continues to thrive, both in keeping family tradition alive and using modern farming techniques, beef farmers face challenges and triumphs as they move into the future in Middle Tennessee and beyond.

According to some Middle Tennessee farmers, the thriving beef industry in Tennessee will continue to have hurdles in the future such as ongoing land loss, urban sprawl and passing farms to the next generation.

As July wraps up Tennessee Beef Month, proclaimed by Gov. Bill Lee on July 1, and National Beef Month, The Daily Herald spoke with Maury County cattle farmers, butchers and beef industry leaders, each providing their perspectives on the state of the beef industry.

All agreed that beef consumers can't beat the farm-to-table experience the state has to offer when it comes to premium red meat.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2024 State Agriculture Overview, Maury County ranks among the top-cattle-producing counties statewide.

The 2022 Census of Agriculture also ranked Maury County No. 1 in agricultural sales.

Beef is Tennessee’s second highest-grossing farm commodity, generating $5.2 billion in agricultural cash receipts annually, according to the state. Tennessee is home to approximately 1.6 million heads of cattle and calves, ranking 9th in the nation for the total number of cattle farms and 16th in cattle production.

The state is home to 37,000 cattle producers, according to the state department of agriculture.

“Our cattle producers are the backbone of Tennessee agriculture,” said Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. said in a state news release.

“The beef industry supplies high-quality, nutrient-rich food, supports jobs, promotes soil conservation, and helps fuel our state’s economy. We’re proud to celebrate Beef Month and recognize the hard work and dedication of the men and women who make it possible.”

While sales and rankings indicate a thriving future for the beef cattle industry, farmers continue to face struggles in retaining the centuries-old practice.

And according to recent statistics regarding land loss in Tennessee and nationwide, a world without ample farmland could happen sooner than some might think.

The state loses an estimated 237 acres of farmland per day, according to research from the University of Tennessee's Center of Farm Management.

The American Farmland Trust projects that from 2016 to 2040, if the current rate of land loss continues, Tennessee could lose a million additional acres of farmland, or 8% of its farmland.

Randy Jones, owner of the Harris-Jones Greasy Branch Farm in Culleoka, backed up the statistics, naming "urban sprawl" as the number one threat to state farmland followed by property taxes for large acreages.

"Two of the biggest issues we are having right now is that our land is worth more than what we can make off of it with urban sprawl," Jones said. "Taxes also keep going up because of the appraisal rates. We are making the same thing we were making five years ago, but the taxes are costing us more than what we are making.

"These are killing the family farm."

Larry Church of Church Family Farm and home of the Church Beef Barn, said while his business continues to thrive beyond the pasture, his farm has also felt the sting of rising costs and shrinking profits.

"That is a problem we are facing, the amount of farmland that is being put in houses, a big issue that none of us like," Church said. "They can sell a piece of property and never have to work a day in their life."

However, Church argues that the benefits of owning a farm, at least to him, outweigh monetary profit, and that part of the winnings come from the community it can create.

"You consider 'profit' in different ways, and it's not always about dollars and cents," Church said. "We knew our neighbors, but we didn't know our neighbors until we opened. And since, we have made more neighbors, friends, contacts."

Running The Beef Barn on his property, offering local beef for purchase during daylight hours, has opened his eyes about how the beef product can be utilized for more than a tasty meal.

"I had a woman from Austin, Texas last week who wanted all of the beef tailings I could give her, any kind of organ meat I could give her and said she would pick it up once a month," Church said. "She has a dog food company, and said she wanted to buy from individual farmers because the quality is there, and that she feeds the dogs the best food they can eat."

While many farmers come from generational families, Church and his wife Sandra began herding their cattle in 2019. At first, farming was a way to settle into retirement after Larry's 42 years of U.S. Military service.

It soon grew into a new and successful career, which continues to grow year after year with customers visiting the 20-acre Hampshire farm to get their beef directly from the source.

"It has really taken off, and we have been blessed with it all," Sandra Church said.

The Tennessee General Assembly recently provided an option for farmers to preserve land through passage of the Farmland Preservation Act signed into law in May. The law serves as an incentive for landowners to secure their greenspace through providing grant funding through conservation easements.

Such an easement is now protecting Rock Creek Farm in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Tennessean reported July 13.

The generational farming family of 100-acre Rock Creek Farm, run by Todd Jennings his brother, Walt, and father, Buford, decided to preserve their property through a conservation easement with the Land Trust for Tennessee, which protects their land from development.

Herding and slaughtering cattle for food purposes, while remaining an age-old tradition, continues to modernize in many ways, particularly when it comes to meat processing.

Ben Neale, who operates Light Hill Meats at 150 Stephen P. Yokich Parkway in Spring Hill, has spent his career not only on the farm, but in the lab studying cattle DNA, certain genetics and aspects that would determine the best breed of cow.

"It's called ethogenetics, and it's basically what food rations you are using to express purer genetics," Neale said. "Those types of things are becoming more and more vital with human diets, and so they are seeing a lot more of that with cattle and supplements. It's like some supplements for your genes might not be good, but others might say they have everything you need right here.

"That's what we are trying to narrow down."

In addition to the genetic benefits of modern-day cattle ranching, Neale said the local product is also sold without unnecessary, as well as potentially harmful, food additives found in the cheaper store-bought items.

"There have been a lot of products that have been allowed to be made using low-quality ingredients, but you don't know that," Neale said. "Chicken is mostly what's been approved by the FDA as far as dropping the carcass' temperature after you slaughter, what's called a water chill. In order to prevent cross contamination, they allow a high salt concentration and then a sodium hydrochloride, or a diluted bleach, at an allowable level into that water. That's why frozen chicken often tastes spongy."

Neale added that the beef market is "thriving" currently but is an industry that has had a cyclical success rate historically.

A potential dip in the market's future, he said, is concerning, especially when it comes to the amount of land places like Maury County can retain to ensure another successful cycle.

"The cow market is great this year, but it goes through a 10-year cycle, and we are looking at pasture grounds in this area and a little bit out being four times worth the production value," Neale said. "If somebody wants to build a 10-15-acre homesteading farm, you can't compete with that by what you can sell a calf for at that value.

"That is very real, and the urban sprawl is pushing us out."

He said making a profitable business is a balance for farmers.

"I joke with people saying that if it wasn't for all of the people moving in, I wouldn't have a successful butcher shop, but if they hadn't I would have bought ground for $1,500 an acre, not $10,000 and I wouldn't need a butcher shop.

"It's a balance."

Fire Station 1 Dedication (Press Release)

The City of Columbia will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand reopening of the newly renovated and expanded Fire Station No. 1. This important project enhances the City’s ability to serve the community with modernized facilities and improved operational space.

The event will take place on August 8, 2025 at 9:00 AM at Fire Station No. 1 located at 1000 S Garden Street in Columbia. The public is invited to attend.

Columbia ARC Gets Good Audit (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is proud to announce that the Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center (ARC) recently received outstanding results in a nationally recognized Advanced Audit conducted by Ellis & Associates. This top-tier safety evaluation reinforces the Aquatics and Recreation Center (or ARC’s) role as a first-class facility dedicated to wellness, recreation, and community connection.

The audit, performed by a national staff auditor from Ellis & Associates, reviewed lifeguard performance, facility readiness, and administrative compliance. The ARC earned “EXCEEDS” ratings in key operational categories, with lifeguards recognized for consistent vigilance, professionalism, and preparedness. All facility equipment and documentation were also found to be in complete compliance, reflecting the exceptional quality of ARC operations and staff.

The ARC continues to serve as a vibrant destination for Columbia residents of all ages. From June 1 to July 15, the facility recorded more than 8,000 member scan-ins and 6,380 day pass visits—averaging 174 daily visits. Active memberships currently total 2,128, reflecting the strong and growing demand for the facility’s diverse amenities and programming.

“This audit result is a reflection of our talented and committed staff and a testament to the ARC’s growing impact in our community,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “We’re seeing more residents use the facility each day, and we’re proud to continue investing in a place that promotes health, wellness, and meaningful connections.”

The City has allocated $2 million in this fiscal year to facility enhancements that will further improve the ARC’s services. These upgrades include renovations to the pool and splash pad, a new roof, parking lot resurfacing, restroom improvements, HVAC upgrades, a new outdoor classroom, and internal structural modifications to improve flow and accessibility.

“The recent excellent audit report on pool operations is a testimony to the efforts of Parks and Recreation Director Mack Regan and his staff. It’s also a good first step as we move forward with renovations to the pools and facility as a whole,” said City Manager Tony Massey.

The ARC offers a wide range of programs designed to bring people together and support an active lifestyle. From Bingo and Kids Bootcamp to the Junior Lifeguard program, Lego Block Parties, and the Open Play Video Game Lounge, there is something for everyone. The recent addition of the Hickory Ridge Walking and Mountain Biking Trail has also expanded the facility’s offerings into the great outdoors.

“Our team is proud to deliver high-quality service and safe recreation opportunities each and every day,” said Parks & Recreation Director Mack Reagan. “The ARC continues to thrive as a space where people come to grow stronger, make memories, and stay connected to their community.”

With strong participation, continued investment, and national recognition for safety and excellence, the Columbia Aquatics & Recreation Center stands as a shining example of the City’s commitment to building a healthier, more connected Columbia.

For more information about ARC programming and facility updates, visit ColumbiaTN.Gov.

Citizens’ Fire Academy (Press Release)

Columbia Fire & Rescue is now accepting applications for the 2025 Citizens Fire Academy—a free, hands-on learning experience for adults age 18 and older. More than just an educational program, the Citizens Fire Academy is a unique opportunity to build relationships, educate citizens, and showcase the outstanding work performed daily by Columbia Fire & Rescue personnel.

This six-week program offers participants a behind-the-scenes look at life in the fire service—providing firsthand insight into the operations, challenges, and teamwork that define the department’s commitment to protecting the Columbia community.

 Interactive activities include:

• Live equipment demonstrations

• CPR training

• Station tours

• Presentations from CFR’s Emergency Management, Fire Marshal, and Training divisions

• A hands-on mock fire scene drill featuring hose deployment, ladders, and search-and-rescue tactics

Led entirely by CFR personnel, the Citizens Fire Academy is designed to strengthen the department’s bond with the community through education, transparency, and engagement.

The program begins Monday, August 11, 2025, and runs through Monday, October 13, 2025, with sessions hosted at various Columbia fire stations.

Applications are now available at www.ColumbiaTN.com through August 4, 2025. For more details and to view the full agenda, please visit the City’s website or contact Columbia Fire & Rescue directly at 931-560-1700.

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

Laura Barnes Cathey, age 92 passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025 in Columbia, Tennessee.

Internment is at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

Youth Suicide Rates Increase (Tennessean)

Youth suicides surged by 47% statewide over a five-year period, according to the most recent data released in the Suicide Prevention in Tennessee 2025 Annual Report.

The suicide rate for minors as young as 10 through age 17 rose from 4.5 to 6.6 per 100,000 people from 2019 to 2023, the most recent period studied by the Tennessee Department of Health's Division of Family Health and Wellness. In 2023 alone, 47 minors took their own lives.

Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for young people ages 10 to 24, according to state statistics. The number of minors dying by suicide using firearms has risen by 8% over the past five years.

"The most notable seasonal trends in suicidality among youth is the increase in emergency department visits for suicidal behavior during the 'back-to-school months,' " according to the state's youth suicide prevention data.

Mental health experts advise parents, teachers, counselors and friends to encourage help-seeking behaviors and safety-planning for middle and high school students.

Nashville-based Centerstone helped lobby to create the national hotline and announced July 17 its plans to merge with Missouri-based Brightli to form the nation's largest nonprofit behavioral health services provider to enhance programs for adults, families and children. Centerstone offers suicide prevention information on its website.

Becky Stoll, senior vice president of Crisis Services at Centerstone, said it's important for caregivers and friends to ask questions when they are concerned about a child or teen.

"They don't have really good coping skills, their brains are still developing" she said.

"They don't have life experience under their belt to know: 'I'm not always going to feel this way,' " Stoll said.

"No one wants to raise their hand and say: 'I feel broken.'"

The state's overall suicide rate also slightly increased, from 17.7 to 17.9 from 2019 to 2023, the report states. That's 22% above the national average.

The suicide rate for men is more than 3.8 times higher than for women and has remained stable during the past five years. In 2023, the suicide rate for women ages 18 and older rose slightly for the first time since 2019, mainly driven by an increase for those ages 25 to 64.

The largest increase for women occurred among people ages 45 to 64, with a rate hike from 9.8 to 12.1 per 100,000 people.

State health officials analyzed suicide patterns across Tennessee and divided the state into 13 health regions. Davidson County, anchoring one of the seven larger metros, had the lowest rate of 13.2, while the highest rate was in the northeast corner of the state at 27.1 per 100,000 people.

Hamilton County had the largest increase, with suicide deaths rising by 56%.

The suicide death rate for non-Hispanic white residents was more than 2.2 times greater than non-Hispanic Black Tennesseans. But the rate of hospital visits for intentional self-injury rose in 2023 for non-Hispanic Black residents, from 126.7 to 127.4, surpassing the rate of 124.8 for non-Hispanic White residents for the first time in five years.

For minors, some of the concerning behaviors include: preoccupation with death in conversation, writing or drawing; giving away belongings; withdrawing from friends and family; neglecting personal appearance and aggressive or hostile behavior.

For adults, behaviors that could indicate they're contemplating suicide include: feeling like a burden; being isolated and alone; increased anxiety; overwhelming sadness or depression; feeling trapped or in unbearable pain; increased drug or alcohol use and searching for lethal means.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Williamson County Fair will run August 1-9, 2025. Held at the Williamson County AgExpo Park, this year’s fair will include a variety of family-friendly shows, competitions, food and the always popular midway featuring rides for all ages.

The mission of the fair is to provide a family-friendly event, promoting agriculture, bringing communities together and celebrating the traditions of Williamson County.

For more information, visit www.williamsoncountyfair.org.