Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 8-26-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for August 26, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Maury Alliance State of the Economy (CDH)

The state of Maury County's economic growth appears to be on track with increases in overall investments, jobs and income.

Earlier this month, Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance President Wil Evans shared his quarterly presentation to Columbia City Council. The presentation included current economic data, as well as the Alliance's latest Key Performance Indicator (KPI) report.

The latest data from July, Evans shared, showed increases in new business investment, and at a higher rate than the norm. Though there has been growth in existing industries as well.

Maury Alliance's latest Key Performance Indicator (KPI) report showcases county-wide metrics in median household income, retail sales and civilian labor force between 2013-2023.

"We have often measured our success in the number of jobs we have created, the amount of capital investment," Evans said. "We wanted to look at that more long-term impact of that economic growth. Is Maury County growing? Is it growing wealthier and is it developing the talent necessary to stay competitive?"

According to the report, the median household income from 2013-2023 increased 36.7% overall, which Evans called "a very strong growth."

Retail growth reported an 85% increase, or over $2.1 billion over the same 10-year period.

The KPI Report also measured the overall citizen labor force growth between 2018-2023 at 82,478 new jobs, four times the national growth rate.

"We are seeing a lot of growth in our workforce, and our population in turn," Evans said.

The KPI Report also compared Maury County with Nashville and statewide Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) data.

The MSA data over 10 years showed Maury County outperformed in areas such as:

• Population growth: 113,411

• Average annual income increase: $60,831 (up 52% in 10 years)

• Median household income increase: $74,162

• Real GDP growth: nearly $5.4 billion

• Civilian labor force growth: 82,478

• Graduation rate: 92.1%

"Things are moving in a positive direction here," Evans said.

Just over the last year in Maury County, 1,760 jobs were announced, cost of living at 12% below national average, and capital investments have drawn $2.4 billion.

Evans' presentation concluded with acknowledgements to recent announcements at General Motors and Ultium Cells.

In June, GM announced a $4 billion investment in manufacturing operations, which included production of the gas-powered Chevrolet Blazer at the company's Spring Hill plant.

In August, GM announced it would continue the five-seat SUV's production, with a fresh model set to launch in 2027.

"It is just indicative of the facility that we have here," Evans said. "We are blessed to have a very flexible facility here, and they are taking full advantage of that as they are reworking some of their plans. It's a good opportunity of the long-term impact and how we feel, within the auto industry, General Motors Spring Hill is going to be here for quite some time."

In July, Ultium announced planned upgrades to its Spring Hill facility for low-cost EV battery production, a joint venture between the company, GM and LG Energy Solution.

“At GM, we’re innovating battery technology to deliver the best mix of range, performance, and affordability to our EV customers,” Kurt Kelty, VP of batteries, propulsion, and sustainability at GM, said in a July 14 news release. “This upgrade at Spring Hill will enable us to scale production of lower-cost LFP cell technologies in the U.S., complementing our high-nickel and future lithium manganese rich solutions and further diversifying our growing EV portfolio."

Eleven Acres of Spring Hill Battlefield Saved (WKRN)

An historic battlefield in Spring Hill will be preserved forever, once the Battle of Franklin Trust closes on the property on Tuesday.

The 11 acres of land were part of the Battle of Spring Hill, which happened on Nov. 29, 1864, and ended in a stalemate between Union and Confederate soldiers, and eventually led to the Battle of Franklin.

The land sits alongside other nearby historical landmarks including the Rippa Villa plantation and surrounding land protected by the American Battlefield Trust.

“There’s no better way to understand our past than to actually come and visit a place where it happened,” Battle of Franklin Trust CEO Eric Jacobson stated.

Jacobson explained how preserving the land will also be a good move economically.

“Heritage tourism is a huge boon to the area,” he said. “We have almost 100,000 visitors a year, and most of those people aren’t even from Tennessee; so they come in, they spend money, and they visit places like Rippa Villa and walk the battlefield.”

Spring Hill Mayor Matt Fitterer said the city will use its hotel/motel tax to contribute to the land’s purchase.

“When we have an opportunity to protect that battlefield land from development and turn it into a city asset and a cultural asset where that history can be shared and celebrated, we’re going to try to encourage those opportunities,” Fitterer explained.

Efforts are also being made to honor the approximately 75 slaves who lived at Rippa Villa at the time. Just last week, a bust of Anna Bunch, a former slave at the plantation, was unveiled.

“We have to understand what happened in the past, and not just because it happened, because it’s also clear warning signs about what not to do in the future,” Jacobson added.

Jacobson said the immediate goal is to preserve the historic battlefield — trees and all — but more may be in the land’s future.

“Interpretive signage, maybe a walking trail, but the initial first step is to save it,” he said.

First Farmers Performance Series (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College is pleased to announce the artist roster for the 2025-2026 First Farmers Performance Series season. The 23rd season of the Performance Series features a diverse lineup of artists set to perform in the 500-seat Cherry Theater on the Columbia Campus.

“The feel of fall is beginning to spread through the air, and Columbia State—together with First Farmers—is excited to share evenings of outstanding entertainment with our community,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “Each performance offers not only top-tier talent but also a chance to connect with friends, meet new ones, and enjoy a stroll through the Pryor Art Gallery. I look forward to seeing you at the Series.”

“We’re thrilled to unveil what may be one of our best Performance Series lineups at Columbia State,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “This season wouldn’t be possible without the steadfast support of our naming sponsor and the enthusiasm of our patrons. We invite everyone in our community to join us—there’s nothing quite like the energy and connection of live performance.”

“We’re proud to bring a lineup this varied and dynamic to the region we serve,” said Tammy Rosson, Columbia State director of events and alumni relations. “Audiences can experience world-class performances — from storytelling and bluegrass to timeless classics and holiday traditions — in a lovely venue with free parking and easy access. Thanks to the continued support of First Farmers & Merchants Bank, and our patrons, this season reflects our commitment to making live entertainment accessible and unforgettable for our community.”

SEAN OF THE SOUTH | Thurs., Oct. 16 @ 7 p.m.

Sean Dietrich isn’t just a writer—he’s a storyteller who makes you laugh, cry and feel right at home. A columnist, humorist and multi-instrumentalist known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Newsweek, Southern Living, Reader’s Digest, Garden and Gun and his column appears weekly in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 18 books and more than 4,000 columns. He makes appearances on the Grand Ole Opry; his work has been featured on the Today Show and he’s a really nice guy. Don't miss this unforgettable night of storytelling and music!

SCOTT MULVAHILL | Thurs., Nov. 13 @ 7 p.m.

Scott Mulvahill doesn’t just play the upright bass—he reinvents it. A genre-blending singer-songwriter, he fuses Americana, folk, jazz and experimental sounds into something truly original. A former member of Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, Mulvahill struck out on his own with Himalayas and his groundbreaking DataBass project. Encouraged by Bruce Hornsby, he’s since taken the stage on NPR’s Tiny Desk, Mountain Stage and TEDxNashville, collaborating with Cory Wong, Lauren Daigle and Keb’ Mo’. Don’t miss this musical innovator live in concert.

THE IRISH TENORS | Thurs., Dec. 18 @ 7 p.m.

Experience the magic of Christmas with The Irish Tenors! For more than 25 years, they’ve enchanted audiences worldwide, ranking among PBS’s top acts alongside The Three Tenors and Andrea Bocelli. Their soaring harmonies breathe life into beloved Irish classics, secular favorites and holiday songs that make spirits soar. Accompanied by an 18-piece orchestra, Anthony Kearns, Ronan Tynan and Declan Kelly deliver a breathtaking performance that captures the season’s joy and wonder. Secure your seats for this unforgettable holiday experience!

THE FRENCH FAMILY BAND | Thurs., Feb. 12 @ 7 p.m.

Originally from Australia and now Nashville-based, this trio—Stuie, Camille, and Sonny French—brings rich harmonies, dazzling twin guitars and a love for classic country straight from the Golden Age. With Grand Ole Opry appearances, worldwide acclaim and praise from legends like Marty Stuart, they’re carrying the tradition forward with heart and soul. With a new album on the way, now’s the time to catch them live and experience true country magic.

THE KODY NORRIS SHOW | Thurs., March 12 @ 7 p.m.

This award-winning bluegrass group is all about blending tradition with fresh energy. The reigning Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America Entertainers of the Year feature front man Kody Norris on guitar, Mary Rachel Nalley-Norris on fiddle and mandolin, banjo ace Josiah Tyree, and bassist Charlie Lowman. Known for dynamic performances, they’ve played the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and festivals worldwide, earning ovations and new fans everywhere they go. Bluegrass lovers and first-timers alike—grab your ticket and experience this unforgettable live show!

THE PLATTERS | Thurs., April 9 @ 7 p.m.

Few groups have a legacy as enduring as The Platters®. Founded in 1952 by Herb Reed, they were the first African American group to achieve superstardom, delivering timeless GRAMMY® hits like "Only You" and "The Great Pretender." Today, their music remains a staple of pop culture, film and television, evidenced by their inclusion in the Marvel® Cinematic Universe. Under the direction of Reed’s direct successor, Frederick J. Balboni, Jr., The Platters bring their signature harmonies to the stage, keeping the golden era of music alive alongside ageless songs of love from their new LP. This family-friendly performance will inspire audiences of all ages. Don’t miss this legendary interactive show!

Tickets for each performance are priced at $35 and include all fees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.  Individuals may also contact the Performance Series box office at 931.540.2879, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In other Columbia State news… the College recently honored 23 radiologic technology graduates in a pinning ceremony in the Cherry Theater on the Columbia Campus.

“There is currently a great demand for competent medical imaging professionals,” said Rose Hobby, program director and associate professor of radiologic technology. “I am confident the Class of 2025 will begin making a positive impact to patients in our community immediately.”

Program graduates must take and pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists board licensure exam in order to secure employment. Currently, the five-year average first-attempt pass rate for Columbia State is 91%, which is above the five-year national average pass rate of 85%.

“Radiography graduates are essential members of the healthcare team who combine technical skills, attention to detail and compassionate care to ensure patients receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, dean of the Health Sciences Division and professor of radiologic technology. “These graduates are ensured rewarding careers, endless opportunities for lifelong learning and significant impact on patients and families!” 

Columbia State’s radiologic technology program is a rigorous 22-month program in which students learn imaging science in order to become a radiographer and work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, doctors’ offices and other healthcare facilities.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are qualified to produce images of patients’ internal structures for use in diagnosing medical problems.

Columbia State’s radiologic technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee in Radiologic Technology. For more information about applying to this competitive admission program, please visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/RadTech or email RadTech@ColumbiaState.edu.

Spring Hill Development Could Spur Improvements (WKRN)

A new development could mean the widening of one Spring Hill roadway, but not all residents are on board.

Eastport Farms is on about a 40-acre site near the intersection of Port Royal Road and Saturn Parkway. Spring Hill Mayor Matt Fitterer said the developer has been working on the project there for a couple of years, and they want to anchor the space with a major retailer. The developers have proposed taking portion of the sales tax revenue generated there to fund improvements needed along Port Royal Road.

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen needs to decide whether or not to refer the applicant to the city’s industrial development board to see if it’s a viable economic situation or not — mainly seeing if there would be enough sales tax revenue generated to fund the roadway’s needs.

Even though the developer has formally made the request to the board, some residents haven’t been sure that it’s a smart move.

“I think the residents have generally been indifferent towards this right now,” Fitterer told News 2. “Port Royal definitely needs improvements. The interest, I think, to the city lies in the fact that if we can leverage a private development to make the public improvements, that’s a win for the citizens.”

Fitterer said the city’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen seemed to be open to the idea of voting on the resolution, which would likely happen in early September.

Columbia Central Student to Join FFA Band (Press Release)

Columbia Central High School junior, Alexis Kilpatrick, has been accepted into the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Band and will play the French horn at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana, October 25 – November 1.

The National FFA Band is a prestigious ensemble of musically talented FFA members from across the United States that perform at the annual National FFA Convention and Expo. The band offers a valuable opportunity for young musicians to gain performance experience while bonding with other members from across the country.

Once band members arrive, they only have a few days to rehearse before performing multiple times on stage throughout the week of the convention, including during general sessions and concerts. Each year 70,000 FFA members from across the nation gather to celebrate accomplishments and compete in events at the national level. 

“Columbia FFA is extremely proud of Alexis and her selection to perform with the National FFA Band,” said Agriculture Teacher/FFA Advisor, Coty Vannoy at Columbia Central High School. “This prestigious opportunity is a testament to her dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence. She is a wonderful representative of our chapter, school, and community.”

The first National FFA Band performed at the 1947 National FFA Convention, an annual tradition that showcases musically gifted FFA members selected from auditions across the country. The ensemble originally started as a "mail order band" before becoming a popular staple of the National FFA Convention & Expo, where members rehearse and perform throughout the convention week. 

For more information about the National FFA Convention and Expo, go to www.convention.ffa.org.

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

Mr. Larry H. Potts, 76, a resident of Culleoka, died Sunday, August 24, at his residence surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 10:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens with military honors provided by Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Mrs. Jewell Lee Horne Dean, 95, a lifelong resident of Maury County, passed away on August 22. A graveside service will be conducted Friday, August 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery

Mr. Roy Wayne Houser, 85, resident of Columbia, and former resident of Chicago, IL, died Thursday, August 21 at Maury Regional Medical Center. No services are scheduled at this time.

Mr. Rickey Wayne Davidson, 65, resident of Mt. Pleasant died Thursday, August 21 at Maury Regional Medical Center. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date.

Now, news from around the state…

Crack Down on School Zones in Franklin (NewChannel5)

The Franklin Police Department is stepping up enforcement in school zones around the city.

Since school started two weeks ago, FPD has made nearly 50 traffic stops for drivers violating school zone rules. Citations have been issued for everything from speeding to distracted driving to improper passing.

One stop saw a driver speeding 28 miles an hour over the speed limit in the school zone while children were walking around.

The department said drivers need to pay more attention than ever when going through a school zone. FPD is urging people to respect school zones to avoid a worst-case scenario.

“The last thing I ever want to do is have to go to a parent and have to tell them their child has been killed in a senseless manner and they’re in a school zone,” Kevin Spry, FPD Traffic Unit, said. “The biggest thing is, we just need people to slow down, calm down; you’ll get there when you get there. Leave a little bit early if you have to. Don’t put other lives in danger—especially children.”

The fine for a school zone violation is even higher than one for a normal ticket: $158 for speeding in a school zone.

And if you’re going 35 or higher, the police will require you to go to court, where a judge can impose even higher fines.

According to FPD, juveniles cited for being on their cellphones in a school zone could lose their license.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Highland Realm Farm (4443 Hampshire Pike, Hampshire, TN 38461) presents its 3rd Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 18th, 2025, from 11 am – 5 pm!

There will be LIVE MUSIC! Hay rides, horseback riding, pumpkin painting, face painting, giant bounce fun house, between 30-40 very talented local vendors, many great food trucks, Ooh LaLa icee truck, and more to see and enjoy right here on the farm!

For more information, follow Highland Realm Farm on Facebook.