Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 9-21-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for September 21, 2026

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

We start with local news…

Man Wanted for Questioning (MauryCountySource)

The Maury County Sheriff’s Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a person they want to speak with as part of an ongoing investigation.

The department released images Thursday showing the person with what appears to be a rifle and said investigators are attempting to identify him. You can view the images on the Maury County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Anyone who has seen the person or has information about his identity is asked to contact Detective Buddy Claspell at bclaspell@maurycounty-tn.gov

Debate and Endorsement for Molder (Tennessean)

A major endorsement and a rare debate are the latest updates in what’s become one of the most interesting congressional races in Tennessee this cycle.

In the race for Tennessee's newly drawn District 5, former Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher defeated incumbent U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles in a stunning upset in the August primary.

Now in the general — in a district redrawn by Republicans to give the GOP a political advantage — Hatcher has a built-in lead over his rival, Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder.

He also has a name recognition advantage, particularly in rural areas of the district where farmers were already familiar with him from his years as state veterinarian and agriculture chief. And he’s drawn financial support from the Invest in Tomorrow Coalition, a political action committee focused on renewable energy.

But moderate Democrat Molder has earned some big endorsements, and drawn significant financial backing and organizational support from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

Both candidates have had to put in hours of travel time to get to voters in the district, which was gerrymandered to include the southern Nashville suburb of Franklin, parts of Clarksville, Lake County in the northwest corner of the state, and most of Tennessee’s western border, down to Memphis.

Molder announced an endorsement from the Blue Dog coalition of Democrats on Sept. 16. The Blue Dogs — founded in 1995 by Tennessee Congressman John Tanner and others — stand for responsible spending, a strong national defense and practical solutions. Amid rising political polarization, the coalition has dwindled from more than 50 members in 2009 to just 10 members.

Molder has said he will join the Blue Dog Coalition if elected and help build a new generation of independent Democratic leadership. 

“Tennessee’s Blue Dogs showed that you could be a proud Democrat and earn the trust of Republicans and independents, too,” Molder said. “They were careful with tax dollars, and they knew how to get things done. That tradition has a future, and I’m proud to help build it with the support of the Blue Dogs.” 

Tennesseans helped establish the Blue Dog coalition in Congress. Other Tennessee Blue Dog Democrats have included Bart Davis, Harold Ford Jr. and Jim Cooper, who represented District 5 until it was redrawn in 2021. Tanner has endorsed Molder. 

“When we started the Blue Dogs, we came together around the idea that fiscal responsibility and working across party lines ought to mean something to Democrats in Washington, too,” Tanner said. 

“Chaz has put those principles to work in Columbia. He knows you can disagree with somebody and still find a way to get things done together,” Tanner added. “That’s the kind of leadership Tennessee needs, and I’m proud to see him help carry this tradition forward.”

Hatcher takes a different approach on Trump

Hatcher has set himself apart from other Republicans in Tennessee’s congressional delegation who often struggle to find any Trump policy with which they disagree. 

While Hatcher has said he’ll be loyal to the president — and has earned Trump’s endorsement — he's has been nuanced in his approach to Trump’s policies.

After Trump announced a tariff reprieve on imported beef to lower the cost of meat — a move that was projected to undercut American-produced beef by 25% — Hatcher praised Trump’s goal of lowering grocery prices but criticized his strategy.

“We know how this proposal will affect American cattle producers," Hatcher said. "Our farmers and ranchers have faced drought, high feed and fuel costs, increased input costs, and historically low cattle inventories. We should be encouraging American producers to rebuild our cattle herd, not putting them at a competitive disadvantage to foreign beef.”

“I support President Trump’s goal of lowering grocery prices for American families, but the long-term answer is producing more food here at home,” he said. 

District 5 could be the only federal general election race in Tennessee in which candidates actually debate each other this cycle. 

Hatcher said last week that he would debate Molder, saying he feels “voters deserve to hear from the two nominees in this important race.”

Citing the gerrymandering that “gave us a lot of ground to cover,” Molder has since proposed three debates: in Columbia, Memphis and Martin. 

“No voter should have to drive three hours to hear their congressional candidates debate,” Molder said in a statement last week. “Three debates will give people across this district a chance to hear from both of us in person, close to home.”

Hatcher’s team told The Tennessean that he’s been “meeting folks where they are in every nook and cranny of the 5th District for months.” And he’ll meet Molder for a forum soon.  

“Charlie looks forward to a discussion on the issues at a time and place that works for both candidates throughout the district,” said Hatcher spokesman Chris Devaney.

No time or location for a debate has been announced yet. 

An internal poll released by the Molder team shows Hatcher in the lead by 8 percentage points, with 11% of voters undecided. More voters in the district are familiar with Hatcher (58%) than Molder (41%).

But Molder could be closing the gap as midterm years are typically tough for the party in power, and this year is no exception. The Columbia mayor ramped up his spending on a digital ad campaign this month.

Hatcher hasn't released new ads since the primary but has held campaign events in the district during a “thank you tour” to celebrate his primary victory.

The deadline to register to vote in November is Oct. 5.

First Responder’s Appreciation Luncheon (WKOM Radio 1:15)

On Friday, Tripp’s Ace Hardware hosted their annual First Responder’s Appreciation Luncheon. With more is Front Porch Radio’s Delk Kennedy to attended the event and spoke to Tripp Stultz.

Kiwanis Honor Two With Hixson Award (Press Release)

The Kiwanis Club of Columbia honored two former Club Presidents, Jan McKeel and Lucas Burt, with the George F. Hixson Fellowship.

The George F. Hixson Fellowship was established by the Kiwanis Children’s Fund in 1983.  It is named for the first President of Kiwanis International and is one of the highest honors given by Kiwanis.  It recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to Kiwanis’ history of generosity and for their dedicated service to their Kiwanis Club and community.

Jan McKeel became a member of the Kiwanis Club in 1999 and served as the 100th President during the 2020-2021 year.  

McKeel is a native of Kentucky and is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a BBA in Finance and has a Masters in Business Administration from Murray State University.  She worked for 35 years as a professional in Workforce Development serving as the Director of Finance and Accounting and later as Executive Director of the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance. 

She is recognized for her commitment to help children learn to read by supporting Imagination Library by serving as the volunteer Director of the founding Maury County Board for Imagination Library.  In addition, she has served on the boards of Maury Regional Medical Center, the Polk Home, Youth Education Foundation, Maury County Library and Chair of Maury Alliance.  McKeel has also been honored by the Nashville Business Journal Woman of Influence, Jobs for Tennessee Graduated Award and received the highest honor given by the National Association of Workforce Boards, the Lori Moran Partnership Award.

Lucas Burt became a member of the Kiwanis Club in 2010 and served as the 101st President during the 2021-2022 year.  He is a third generation Kiwanis Club member with his Grand Father, James Burt, and Father, Steve Burt, also serving as club Presidents.  He assumed the responsibility of co-chairing the Kiwanis Mule Day Committee from 2015 to 2022 and co-chaired the Sporting Clays Tournament in 2021.

Burt is a graduate of Columbia Central High School and received a B.S. Degree in Business Administration from Tennessee Tech University.  Since 2018, he has served as a Maury County insurance agent with Farm Bureau Insurance and has managed the Nashville Highway office since 2024.

In addition to his Kiwanis activities, Burt has been active in the Columbia community.  He is a graduate of Leadership Maury and Leadership Middle Tennessee and has served as treasurer for the Maury County Historical Society Board, Maury County Fair Board and the Family Center Board.

Heroes’ Breakfast (MSM)

Operation Stand Down Tennessee honored local veterans and their families during its second annual Columbia Heroes’ Breakfast on Friday, Sept. 11, at The Mulehouse.

The Heroes’ Breakfast brought veterans, families and community members together to share a meal, network and recognize the contributions of those who have served in the U.S. military.

For more than 30 years, Operation Stand Down Tennessee has served veterans across a 31-county region in Middle and West Tennessee, with centers in Nashville, Clarksville and Columbia. The organization provides veterans and their families with resources and opportunities through a variety of programs designed to help them get back on track.

Since establishing its Columbia location three years ago, Operation Stand Down Tennessee has provided more than $250,000 in temporary financial assistance and distributed 1,000 food bags to veterans and their families.

Chief Executive Officer and U.S. Air Force veteran Arlie Haddix spoke about his military service and the history and mission of Operation Stand Down Tennessee.

“We began as an event by setting up tents and sent teams of people to go find what we call a ‘classically homeless’ person who is a veteran,” Haddix said. “We provide them with a shower, clean clothes and a hot meal, then begin the process of figuring out who they are.”

Dean Wegner, founder and CEO of Authentically American, served as the event’s keynote speaker. Wegner served as a helicopter pilot and Army Ranger for seven years before beginning his business career.

During his keynote address, Wegner spoke about the importance of service and putting others before yourself. He also highlighted the impact Operation Stand Down Tennessee has had on veterans, including himself and his business.

“They are that Ranger buddy in their life,” Wegner said. “When they need somebody in their life to come beside them, to walk with them and know that they do not have to do this journey alone.”

Operation Stand Down Tennessee offers opportunities for community members to donate and volunteer in support of its mission.

Haddix encouraged anyone who knows a veteran in need to connect them with the organization, emphasizing that Operation Stand Down Tennessee is ready to provide assistance and support.

Operation Stand Down Tennessee CEO Arlie Haddix and Chief Development and External Affairs Officer Maria Wolfe are part of the program at Friday’s event in Columbia.   

Fruit Tea Festival Announced (Press Release)

Visit Columbia, the official destination marketing organization for the City of Columbia, has announced the inaugural Fruit Tea Festival, set for Saturday, June 26, 2027, at Riverwalk Park in Columbia,Tennessee.

The festival was announced during Columbia Main Street’s Fruit Teaser event on September 12th, as Columbia celebrated a new chapter in its connection to the local favorite. As part of the event, the City of Columbia officially proclaimed Columbia as the Fruit Tea Capital of the World and fruit tea as the official drink of Columbia.

The Fruit Tea Festival will play a significant role in establishing fruit tea as another recognizable part of Columbia’s identity and something visitors come to know and associate with the city. It follows the recent launch of Visit Columbia’s Fruit Tea Trail, which features more than 20 local businesses serving their own versions of the Columbia staple and gives residents and visitors another way to experience the community’s fruit tea tradition.

The festival is being planned on a broader scale than many of Columbia’s traditional community events. Designed to draw visitors from across the region, plans include a notable lineup of live musical entertainment, an expansive selection of craft vendors, numerous food trucks, a fruit tea tasting competition, and more. The regional draw of the event will create a new tourism opportunity for Columbia while generating greater economic impact for restaurants, shops and other businesses throughout the community.

“Fruit tea is special to Columbia because it has been part of everyday life here for generations,” said Kellye Murphy, Tourism & Marketing Director for the City of Columbia. “It has been served around family dinner tables, brought to gatherings and celebrations, and ordered alongside a meal at local restaurants. There is a familiarity and sense of home tied to fruit tea here, and that is what makes it such an authentic part of Columbia’s story. The festival gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate something that already means so much to our community and share it with even more people.”

Businesses and organizations interested in being part of the inaugural Fruit Tea Festival through sponsorship opportunities can contact Visit Columbia at Events@ColumbiaTN.gov.

Additional festival details will be announced in the coming months. Save the date for Saturday, June 26, 2027, and stay tuned to Visit Columbia TN for more information about the inaugural Fruit Tea Festival at www.VisitColumbiaTN.com ormon social media channels such as Facebook and Instagram.

Mayoral Forum (Press Release)

Maury Alliance will be hosting a Columbia Mayoral Candidate Forum on Tuesday, September 22nd from 5:30-7:00 at the Cherry Theater of Columbia State Community College located at 1665 Hampshire Pike.

Mayoral Candidates include:

       Timothy Johnson

        Jolita Lipscomp

        Stewart Parker

        Eric Previti

        Ashley Townsend

The event will be moderated by Wil Evans, President & CEO, Maury County Chamber and Economic Alliance

Maury County Candidate Guide coming soon!

Early voting will take place October 14-29

November 3rd is Election Day.

Maury County Clerk Satellite Office (Press Release)

The Maury County Clerk’s office can now help residents with renewals of license plates or placards each Wednesday from 8am to 3:30pm at the Maury County Senior Center located at 1020 Maury County Park Dr.

Please drive around to the back of the building and look for the car tag renewal sign near the back door.

Forms of payment include credit/debit card or check – no cash.

Any Maury County Resident can use this office.

All other transactions will still need to be done through the main office located at 10 Public Square.

Also, you can renew online at TNCountyClerk.com or at kiosks in Spring Hill City Hall or Mt. Pleasant Courthouse.

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

Mrs. Katherine Peery Harris, 98, of Williamsport passed away on Friday, September 18. Graveside services will be conducted on Tuesday, September 22 at 11:00 AM at Delk Cemetery. The family will visit with friends on Monday from 4:00 PM till 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

And now, news from around the state…

Daylight Savings Time Likely to End Again (Tennessean)

Despite bipartisan support in Congress and backing from President Donald Trump, the future of the Sunshine Protection Act remains uncertain.

The legislation, which would allow states to observe daylight saving time year-round while giving them the option to opt out, has stalled in Congress. The Senate returned from its five-week recess on Sept. 14 without scheduling a vote on the measure to end the twice-yearly clock changes, USA TODAY reported.

With no action expected before November, Tennesseans and millions of Americans will once again set their clocks back one hour when daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 1.

Earlier this year, the House of Representatives voted 308-117 to allow states to observe daylight saving time year-round, a move aimed at eliminating the need to change clocks twice a year.

The Sunshine Protection Act would largely end the twice-yearly practice of "springing forward" and "falling back." Daylight saving time currently runs from March to November, when clocks are set ahead one hour to provide more evening daylight during the warmer months before returning to standard time in the fall.

Supporters of the measure, including Trump, argue that permanent daylight saving time would provide more evening sunlight year-round. Critics, however, say it could result in darker winter mornings, particularly in northern states.

Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, Nov. 1, when clocks are turned back one hour.

Cost of Living and Poverty in TN (TNLookout)

The income a Tennessee family needs to pay for necessities such as food, housing and childcare far surpassed the federal poverty threshold, according to an analysis by The Sycamore Institute, a nonpartisan think tank.

The analysis found that basic necessities in Tennessee cost significantly more than those living at the poverty line can afford. The poverty threshold is a metric set by the federal government to establish a minimum “survival budget.” It often forms the basis for determining whether families are poor enough to qualify for certain public benefits.

In Tennessee, more than 40% of households struggled to afford basic needs in 2024, the study found. The report also found the cost of those basic needs – such as housing, childcare and food –  in Tennessee has increased faster than inflation since 2019.

The study relied on Census data and a methodology known as “ALICE” that was designed as an alternative to the federal poverty level metric to account for a broader range of common expenses families incur to get by. 

It found that the estimated costs of basic needs varied widely by county. Families in Williamson, Wilson, Rutherford, Trousdale and Roberton counties incurred the highest costs for necessities; families in Lincoln, Campbell, Claiborne, Clay and Benton Counties incurred the lowest. 

The report also found that wages and income in Tennessee grew faster than inflation. Median household income grew by more than 28% between 2019 and 2024. 

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Prove your favorite chili recipe brings the heat while supporting local veterans at the Vet2Vet Chili Cookoff on Saturday, October 10th, 2026 at 2 pm at the Twisted Copper Brewing Company Columbia (104 E 5th St, Columbia, TN 38401)!

If you don’t have a recipe to show off, come hungry and help choose the winner!

There will be two categories, judges’ choice and most popular.

Whether you want to compete or sample, a donation to Vet2Vet of Middle TN is suggested so the organization can continue supporting local veterans in time of need.

More information is found on the Vet2Vet Chili Cookoff Facebook page.