Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of May.
Good morning, Franklin.
🏘️ Community
Franklin Fire Lieutenant Lloyd 'Rip' Baxter will retire next week after a 34-year career and will be honored on Tuesday, May 12, at 3:00 p.m. at Fire Station 7 (1972 John Fitzgerald Drive).
His 25 years with the department earned him many awards for dedicated service.
One Generation Away held its Spring Breakfast event on May 1 at Liberty Hall at The Factory at Franklin to raise funds for meals for families facing food insecurity.
Keynote speaker Inky Johnson shared his inspiring story of resilience from overcoming injury to highlight the importance of community support.
🎭 Culture
A roundup of event news (local) shows a busy calendar with a CASA fundraiser at Franklin Theatre on May 7, a tribute concert on May 13, and a free community day at Ryman on May 24; future concerts by Shaboozey, Kacey Musgraves, and GWAR promise more excitement later this year.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum hosted a program today that explored Woody Guthrie’s home recordings and introduced the two-volume release, Woody at Home.
Museum Writer-Editor Erin Osmon led a discussion with Guthrie’s granddaughter Anna Canoni and Grammy-winning producer Steve Rosenthal while Jesse Welles performed.
Franklin is hosting the Drive-In Laser Show with family-friendly laser displays today and Saturday; the event features nightly shows beginning at 8 p.m. + 9:30 p.m. after a 30-minute break with $45 per carload admission and food vendors on site.
🎓 Education
Ravenwood High’s indoor percussion ensemble won gold at the Winter Guard International Championships in Dayton after completing an undefeated regional season on April 19.
The school team, which unites students from several county schools, earned praise for its rigorous commitment & teamwork, according to director Nick Mason.
The Spotlight Award nominees have been announced for high school theater students.
On May 24, selected students will travel to Nashville to attend the ceremony at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and two Outstanding Lead Performers will earn a chance to perform at the Jimmy Awards in New York City.
Williamson County Schools honored students joining the U.S. Armed Forces at a military recognition ceremony on April 30.
Superintendent Jason Golden praised their dedication and the community's support (recognizing students from several local high schools).
Students from Williamson County schools competed at the Tennessee State Science Olympiad on April 18.
Ravenwood High secured five first-place awards while Page and Brentwood High also achieved top placements (results verified by WCS).
🏛️ Government
The Franklin Fire Department announced the promotion of Jonathan Jenkins (a 24-year veteran) to assistant fire chief to serve as second in command overseeing the Operations and Training Divisions.
He replaces retired Greg Baltimore.
📰 Lifestyle
This weekend in Williamson County, residents have several events to enjoy.
Today, comedian Jerry Seinfeld headlines at Franklin’s FirstBank Amphitheater at 8 p.m., and on Saturday a Rodeo Parade in Franklin kicks off at 12 p.m. – nearby shows include the Renaissance Festival and Studio Tenn’s Jesus Christ Superstar.
Tupelo Honey has launched its new spring and summer menu featuring fresh strawberries, smoky pulled pork and roasted chicken (offerings available while supplies last and may vary by location).
Thom Smyth, the celebrated London bartender, began his month-long residency at Leiper’s Fork House of Spirits (334 Main St.) on May 1.
His schedule features meet-and-greet sessions, live Irish music, cocktail classes, and a cigar night.
🎉 Franklin Events
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Earth, Wind & Fire Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — FirstBank Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic sounds of Earth, Wind & Fire live in Franklin, TN.
Touch A Truck
5-8 p.m. — Jim Warren Park — Food available for purchase — Explore a variety of trucks and vehicles in a family-friendly environment with a special 'No Horn Hour' for little ones.
Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty
4-5 p.m. — The Franklin Theatre — 20% off with code BALLETSPRING20 — Experience the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty reimagined through mesmerizing glow-in-the-dark ballet.
Historic Tour of The Factory
11 a.m. — The Factory x Franklin Visitor Center — $10 — Discover the fascinating history of a beloved Franklin landmark while exploring vibrant shops and restaurants.
The Franklin Theatre Songwriters Series
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Franklin Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Experience an intimate night with Nashville songwriting legends Rafe Van Hoy, Kent Blazy, and Victoria Shaw.
The Emma Sheppard Show Live
5-7 p.m. — Suite501 — Proceeds support the Navajo Reservation — Experience high-energy conversations and community purpose at this live podcast event.
Basketball Camp: Point Guard Prep
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Tennessee Performance Volleyball Club — $795 — Enhance basketball skills with focused training for young players.
Studio Tenn Presents: Jesus Christ Superstar
7-11 p.m. — Turner Theater — Tickets starting at $75 — Experience the unforgettable production of Jesus Christ Superstar in Franklin, TN.
Franklin Collect X Convention Sports & TCG
9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Franklin Cool Springs — Entry details not specified — Explore over 150 tables of vendors featuring trading cards and collectibles.
Kids Day at Pinkerton Park
9–11 a.m. — Pinkerton Park — Free entry — Enjoy themed activities and summer fun for children of all ages.
🏠 Franklin Real Estate
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📣 Franklin Announcements
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