Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-19-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for September 19, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Tourism Strong in Maury County (MSM)

Visitors to Maury County generated $137,395,158 in spending in 2024, representing a 0.39 percent increase from 2023, according to newly released data from Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Maury is part of the South Central Tennessee Tourism Association, a 13-county region which saw $545,964,900 in direct economic impact.

“Maury County is proud to be recognized among Tennessee’s top tourism destinations. Visitors are drawn to our authentic experiences and vibrant communities, from Columbia to Mount Pleasant and beyond,” said Erin Jaggers, Director of Maury County Tourism. “Tourism not only boosts local businesses, but also enriches quality of life for residents, reflecting the welcoming spirit that makes Maury County a special place to visit.”

According to the data, direct visitor spending in Maury County generated $7,793,095 in state tax revenue and $6,182,500 in local tax revenue. If it were not for state and local taxes generated by tourism, each household in Maury County would pay $339 more in state and local taxes.

“Maury County continues to rank among the top 20 tourism destinations in Tennessee, with the 2024 economic impact report showing $137 million in visitor spending,” SCTTA Executive Director Ryan French said. “It is important to note that Nashville visitation, while a strong driver for Maury County, does not count toward this report, as trips within 50 miles are not classified as visitor spending.

“Across the county, momentum remains strong with significant capital investment in both Spring Hill and Columbia. The completion of the new Main Street renovations will further elevate Columbia’s appeal as a visitor destination. Maury County is clearly a popular choice for travelers, supported by strong local vision and leadership that continue to drive growth in the tourism industry.”

Statewide, Tennessee’s tourism industry broke records for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, generating $31.66 billion in direct visitor spending and welcoming 147 million visitors.

“I’m so grateful to our amazing tourism and hospitality industry for these remarkable results,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “The Tennessee Tourism team has been able to leverage bigger tourism budgets to help grow visitor spending over 36 percent in these last six years. We are leading the nation as one of just a few states that are aggressively growing tax revenue from non-Tennessee residents to benefit all seven million Tennesseans.”

County Commission Leadership Changes (MSM)

The Maury County Commission elected its new leaders in a special session before the Health & Environment Committee meeting on Monday. Danny Grooms was voted chairman with 11 votes (out of 19 present) and Gwynne Evans was made vice-chairman by acclamation.

The commissioners voted to keep the current membership on all subcommittees except for the Building Committee. Commissioners Kenny Morrow, Gabe Howard, Kevin Markham, Eric Previti, Brandon Nutt, Connie Green and Scott Sumners self-nominated for the Building Committee and were unanimously elected by their peers.

“I want to congratulate [Commissioner Grooms] on being the new chairman of the commission, I want to congratulate the people on their committees, [and] Commissioner Markham, I want to thank you for a year of excellent service to this county commission,” County Mayor Sheila Butt said. “We appreciate you very, very much, and we’re looking forward to another year of working together.”

The Health & Environment Committee chose Gary Stovall for its new chairman and Evans as vice chair; the Building Committee elected Eric Previti chairman and Kevin Markham vice chairman; and the Admin Committee chose Eric Previti to be its chairman too, and Aaron Miller to be vice chairman. Other committees will choose their leaders for the year in September.

“I don’t know if that’s some kind of record,” joked Previti, “[but] I’m grateful and humbled by my fellow commissioners putting me in those two seats… I served as chairman of the Building Committee for six years during my first two terms, [and] it’s an honor to be able to return to that position for my final year in this term.”

Breakfast with the Mayors (CDH)

Cooperation among city and county leaders as Maury County envisions its next years of growth was a common theme at the 2025 Breakfast with the Mayors.

The annual event, hosted by the Maury County Chamber and Economic Alliance, brings together mayors from Columbia, Spring Hill, Mt. Pleasant and Maury County, and was presented Sept. 16 at The Memorial Building in downtown Columbia.

The mayors were given an opportunity to share each respective municipality's accomplishments over the last year, as well as the current hurdles and issues.

The talk included topics ranging from infrastructure projects to new jobs, affordable housing and solutions to Maury County's need for an additional long-term water source.

Prior to the event's discussions, Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt commented on the recent shooting death of conservative commentator, Charlie Kirk. The county, she said, will host a vigil in remembrance at 6 p.m. Sunday on the Maury County Courthouse steps, she said.

"It is to remember that he was a brother, a son, a father and husband, and all of us can relate to that," Butt said. "We also have to remember the family of the person who committed the crime. That family is losing somebody too."

Butt added that one of her priorities over the next year is to focus on the county's urban growth boundary, as well as implementing the county's recently updated zoning ordinance.

"We want the building to be high quality that comes to Maury County, and those [ordinances] have not been updated in years," Butt said. "The next thing we will work on is the land use plan, make our map of how we want the land to be used. And looking at these mayors, we want to work together with all of our municipalities."

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder spoke about the city's infrastructure and investments, which he said amounts to about $120 million. The funding has included projects such as building a new wastewater treatment plant, paving more than 28 miles of city roads, and the city's acquisition of the former Muletown Rec, now known as the Columbia Aquatics and Recreation Center.

"When we acquired that center, we knew there would be some risk with that, but we also had a vision that the risk would be worth the return," Molder said. "The early returns show that it has definitely been worth the investment, with the number of memberships ... which has exceeded our expectations three-fold."

Spring Hill Mayor Matt Fitterer highlighted several accomplishments that city has made, some years in the making. These include the long-awaited widening of U.S. Highway 31, which is now on the verge of beginning, as well as the city's acquisition of an additional 16 acres of battlefield land at Rippavilla Plantation.

Much of the city's accomplishments, Fitterer added, are due to collaborations and public/private partnerships, something he believes will be a key factor in "every major project moving forward."

"We constructed a new police station through a private partnership, got a fire station under construction," Fitterer said. "We have a major roadway connection that former Mayor Rick Graham tried to get done, and we are finally building it in partnership with a private partner."

Mt. Pleasant Mayor Bill White acknowledged many strides the city has taken to improve its downtown district, creating new jobs at the Cherry Glen business district, road infrastructure improvements, as well as plans to build a new Mt. Pleasant Public Library.

"We are very proud of [our downtown]," White said. "The industrial growth we have had in Mt. Pleasant over the last year has been phenomenal."

While accomplishments, growth and investment were a big part of the Mayors Breakfast discussions, there were also a number of challenges presented.

One of the bigger challenges, Fitterer said, is that Spring Hill's sewer services are at near capacity, which led to the Board of Mayor and Aldermento implement a moratorium on sewer connections on new developments.

"That is going to be a significant headwind towards any kind of economic growth and opportunity, and so we are working very hard with our private sector partners to find onsite solutions to keep the economic engine of Spring Hill going," Fitterer said. "The good news about the consent order is that we know exactly what to do, and how to do it, to get out of the consent order and create 100 years of sewer capacity in Spring Hill. The bad news is it's going to take a lot of time and money."

In Mt. Pleasant, White added that one of the challenges with water has been repairing leaks to the city's system, which in October of 2024 reported to be losing 400,000 gallons per day.

"That's phenomenal for a community our size, and it's huge in us working together," White said. "We've got our new sewer system that's just about complete. That's been a project that's been going for some time."

For Columbia, Molder said quality of life, affordable housing and having a place for small businesses to grow is also key.

"If we are not focused on quality of life, then all of those things that we are doing that are positive is not seen by the public as the right focus," Molder said.

"Columbia has seen a lot of growth over the past eight years, which in my opinion is a compliment to the community. People want to move here because they like what they see, and that's not necessarily a bad thing.

"We should embrace the fact we have a lot of good things happening here in our community, and people want to be a part of that."

McCullen Appointed to City Council (MSM)

At its September meeting, the Columbia City Council swore in Carl McCullen, a former city councilman and until now, District 4 county commissioner, as the new city councilman for Ward 1. His predecessor, DaVena Hardison, resigned in August for personal reasons.

“Thank you for helping us fill the void here in the First Ward, and God bless you and thanks for your service,” Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder told McCullen after he took the oath of office.

In other Columbia news, the city presented a proclamation to the youth in the Police Explorer program, who undergo exploratory training in the Columbia Police Department to get a feel for what it’s like to be a police officer. Earlier this summer, the Columbia Explorers Post #786 took part in a weeklong skills competition hosted by the South Carolina Association of Law Enforcement Explorers. They won 18 trophies: first place in the Active Shooter Response and Civil Disturbance Investigation scenarios; second place in Arrest Search Warrant and Unknown Risk Traffic Stop; third place in Domestic Investigations, Officer Down, and Felony Traffic Stop; and the best-in-show trophy as Explorer Post of the Year, making them the first agency outside of South Carolina to win it.

Post 786 is led by Columbia Police Sergeant Cheryl MacPherson and Corporal Landon Barber, and has already given multiple officers to the Columbia Police Department. The cadets who competed this year were Daisy Boyle, Shelby Davis, Brendan Pavlik, Aiden Watkins, Wyatt Bridge and Max Cochran. Sgt. MacPherson announced that Pavlik had just been hired as an officer with CPD, eliciting more applause.

“They’ve dedicated a lot of time and a lot of themselves to our community as well as our police department, and we’re blessed and lucky to have them,” the sergeant said warmly.

MRMC Sponsors Stroke Camp (MSM)

The Maury Regional Health Care Foundation is helping local stroke patients and their families by sponsoring the Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp.

The Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp is hosted by the United Stroke Alliance and is designed to offer a weekend away from home to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors, caregivers and their families. The camp offers educational sessions, emotional support, relaxation opportunities and fun activities like arts and crafts, fishing, boating and more. Recreational activities are modified so all attendees can participate. Volunteers from Maury Regional Health help to facilitate the activities and provide support throughout the weekend.

“It’s a very special and rewarding week for everyone involved, from patients and family members to the staff and volunteers,” said Kristen Drury, BSN, stroke and trauma coordinator at Maury Regional Health. “This camp would not be possible without the financial support of the Foundation.”

Nancee Fortner, a past participant at the stroke camp, found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences she has had since her stroke in 2022. Because of her positive experiences, she has returned to the camp three times.

“I learned about the stroke camp through the Stroke Support Group at Maury Regional,” said Fortner. “I was reluctant to go at first, but a friend encouraged me. It’s nice to connect with others who understand what you are going through. I got so inspired by being with stroke survivors, and my friend observed that I seemed happier after attending. I appreciate the Foundation for making it possible for me to have a brighter future.”

The next scheduled Retreat & Refresh Stroke camp is Oct. 17-19 at Pickwick Landing State Park in Counce, Tennessee. This camp is the only one in Tennessee and one of only two in the southeast United States. The cost for the weekend is $105 per person, and registration is now open with rooms available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To register, visit unitedstrokealliance.org/programs/about, click ‘find a camp’ and follow the prompts to select the Columbia camp. For more information, please call (931) 381-1111, ext. 4350.

“The clinical care and emotional support that Maury Regional Health provides to those who have experienced a stroke is exceptional. The Foundation is pleased to help fund this opportunity to enhance the lives of those in our community,” Foundation Executive Director Rita Thompson said.

Maury Regional Medical Center is recognized by the Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center and is certified by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Physicians providing care for stroke patients include skilled neurologists and neurosurgeons, as well as hospital medicine and critical care specialists who provide services, including stroke treatment and follow-up care, spinal injury or disease treatment and brain injury or disease treatment. To learn more about Maury Regional Health’s stroke services, visit MauryRegional.com/stroke.

The Stroke Support Group is for those who have experienced a stroke, as well as their family, friends and caregivers. The group meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Maury Regional Annex at 1223 Trotwood Avenue in Columbia. To learn more about the group, visit MauryRegional.com/calendar.

Cyber Security Lunch and Learn (Press Release)

Cyber threats don’t take lunch breaks—and neither should your strategy.

Join Maury Alliance and Mapletronics on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, for a Cybersecurity luncheon at Southern Tré Steakhouse in downtown Columbia.

This event is designed for business owners, executives, and IT leaders from organizations with 25 to 150 employees. Whether you’re just starting your cybersecurity journey or refining a mature framework, this lunch-and-learn will equip you with the insights you need to lead with confidence.

What to Expect:

• A catered lunch in a relaxed, collaborative setting

• Expert insights on emerging threats like AI-powered deepfakes, phishing, and supply chain attacks

• Compliance essentials to help you avoid costly fines

• A smarter, simplified approach to cybersecurity

• Real-world strategies to outsmart ransomware and protect your business

Why Attend?

88% of ransomware breaches now target small and midsize businesses. Don’t be an easy target. This luncheon will help you build a game plan that’s practical, effective, and tailored to your organization’s needs.

Location:

Southern Tré Steakhouse – 2nd Floor

117 W 7th St, Columbia, TN 38401

Date & Time:

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Seats are limited.

Reserve yours today and join fellow leaders for a meal that could change the way you protect your business.

Learn more at www.mauryalliance.com.

Kiwanis Chili Cookoff (Press Release)

The Kiwanis Club of Columbia is excited to announce its annual Chili Cook-Off, which will be held in downtown Columbia on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 3 PM to 5 PM. This year's event will be held in conjunction with the much-anticipated Columbia Fall Fest.

The Chili Cook-Off will feature local participants vying for the title of "Best Chili." Both tasting and team tickets are available for purchase online by visiting kiwanisofcolumbiatn.com. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Columbia Police and Maury County Sheriff’s 'Shop with a Cop' program, which provides local children with a fun-filled day of Christmas shopping with a uniformed officer.

"We are thrilled to partner with the Columbia Fall Fest to bring our community together for a fantastic cause," said Ty Cobb, president of the Kiwanis Club of Columbia. Incoming president, Stephen Webb, added, "The 'Shop with a Cop' program is a truly meaningful event for our local youth, and we are grateful for the support of our chili cooks, attendees, and the wider community."

Suzanne Ganser, the event chair for the Chili Cook-Off, shared, "The Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off has become a beloved tradition in Columbia. To make the day even more family-friendly, Kiwanis will also be hosting a dedicated kids' zone with inflatables and a petting zoo, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. The club encourages everyone to come out and enjoy the delicious chili, the festivities of the Fall Fest, and the opportunity to support a great cause."

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

Mr. Thomas Bailey Anderson Jr., 95, retired machinist for Union Carbide, and resident of Columbia, died Wednesday at Maury Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Pleasant Mount Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM and on Sunday from 1:00 PM until the time of service at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Alana Jaye Ingram Minor, 72, a lifelong resident of Columbia, died Saturday, September 13, 2025 at NHC HealthCare Columbia.

A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. A private inurnment will be at Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

VW Makes Final Offer (Tennessean)

Volkswagen made its “last, best, and final contract offer” to hourly employees represented by United Auto Workers at its Chattanooga plant Wednesday, the company said.

“After nearly a year of ongoing negotiations with the United Auto Workers, Volkswagen has presented a final contract offer that reflects our deep commitments to our employees and the Chattanooga community,” a VW spokesperson told the Tennessean in a statement.

While VW has walked away from negotiations, the proposal remains the company's final offer.

The UAW did not immediately respond to The Tennessean’s request for comment.

VW is urging the UAW to let its employees vote on the offer and is sweetening the deal by adding a $1,500 resolution bonus for each employee if the contract is ratified by Oct. 31.

The German automaker is offering its workers a 20% wage increase, an immediate $4,000 bonus once the contract is ratified and top hourly wages expanding from $34.02 in 2025 up to $39.40 in 2029.

The offer also includes a “first-ever” cost-of-living allowance that adds up to 45 cents per hour based on the local inflation rate. 

Additionally, the company is adding an 8% annual bonus for workers that meet the plant's attendance requirements. In 2024, 95% of Chattanooga employees qualified and received attendance bonuses, the company said. 

VW is adding profit-sharing incentives in which, if the return on sales for the automaker’s passenger vehicles exceeds 4%, 7% or 8%, workers would receive a bonus of $1,000, $1,250 or $1,500, respectively. 

“The offer is tailored to the needs of our workforce, our plant, and our community,” the spokesperson said. “It balances employee priorities with the economic challenges facing our industry, ensuring we can continue to invest and grow in Chattanooga.” 

For workers in the top wage rate, VW’s Chattanooga employees can earn up to $80,000 in 2026 before overtime, profit sharing or benefits. 

With health care costs poised to rise, the company is lowering its health insurance premiums for preferred provider insurance plans by nearly $1,000. 

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

It might seem a little early to start thinking about the holidays, but this weekend has an opportunity to do a little early Christmas shopping, while supporting a noble cause.

The Family Center will host its second annual Flannel and Friends Market, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the National Guard Armory, 844 N. James M. Campbell Blvd.

Admission is free and open to the public, though the event serves as a fundraiser for the nonprofit, which provides financial assistance to families in need, as well as feeding families with its food pantry.