Good morning, Franklin.

A handful of WCS high school students earned perfect composite ACT scores over the summer — Brentwood High's Wali Sidiqyar, Independence High's Aditya Salvi, Ravenwood High's Impana Dyamenahalli, Devin Liu, and Rejoice Ogunde, along with Summit High's Cecilia Wooldridge.

Today, the Franklin Board of Mayor and Alderman approved the first reading to rezone 103.93 acres and 27.19 acres near McEwen Drive and Carothers Parkway for new projects called Ovation and Aureum.

The board also deferred a hotel-motel tax boost that will take effect on Jan. 1—after a public hearing on Sept. 9 to raise about $1.3 million more each year.

Franklin Transit Authority is launching a free pilot shuttle service on Sept.

15 that runs every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shuttle begins at the Transit Center on Columbia Avenue, stops at Public Square and The Factory, and then returns along the same loop—providing a convenient, car-free travel option.

Franklin Fire Chief Glenn Johnson has promoted Firefighter Jerry Thomas to Deputy Fire Marshal.

Thomas, a 12-year veteran from Station 6 in Cool Springs, will now work on fire safety inspections, public education, and assist in fire investigations — a role designed to protect the community.

Cafe India at 101 International Drive received a failing health inspection score of 63 on August 7 and inspectors embargoed over 70 pounds of food—raw chicken, cooked chicken, goat, rice, and eggs—due to unsafe temperature practices.

The restaurant has struggled with food safety for five years and faces possible permit revocation if it does not fix these issues quickly.

Between August 6th and 13th, 2025, Williamson County recorded its lowest food health scores with Cafe India scoring 63 & other restaurants like Barbara's Home Cooking and Ichiddo Ramen showing slightly higher scores; inspectors checked food service establishments at least twice a year and required that reports be posted for public review.

Today in the local food scene, the Wilson County Fair opens with a pork theme and live entertainment while Cafe India scored 63 points with over 70 pounds of unsafe food embargoed; Dickey's Barbecue Pit launches a back-to-school kids eat free promotion and Sam Fox's Culinary Dropout plans to open in Franklin on September 10. Other chains like Chick-fil-A, Whataburger and Dollar General are set to introduce new menu items and offers in the coming days.

Claire Stegall, a Nolensville High alumna, was named the Gatorade Tennessee Girls Track and Field Player of the Year for 2024-25—her second win of the honor.

She has earned multiple state titles in track events and remains a standout athlete at Nolensville High.

Transformational Cutting Techniques for Women

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — SalonCentric — Registration required — Enhance your scissor cutting skills and client consultations for transforming hairstyles based on individual features.

Aaron Armstrong Book Signing

6-8 p.m. — Landmark Booksellers — Free entry — Engage with Aaron as he discusses his new book, Faith Simplified, and get your copy signed.

Deborah Allen Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Franklin Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the dynamic talent of Deborah Allen, a distinguished singer and songwriter from Memphis.

36th Annual Steak & Burger Dinner

5:30-8:00 p.m. — The Factory at Franklin — $100 per person — Enjoy an evening of great food, entertainment, and interactions with Boys & Girls Club youth.

Kings of Queen - A Tribute to Queen

7-9:30 p.m. — The Franklin Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting tribute of Queen with stunning vocals and theatrical flair.

Mercy Legal Clinic

4-6 p.m. — Mercy Community Healthcare - Health Center — Free consultation — Address your civil legal issues with a professional attorney at this helpful clinic.

Downtown Franklin Art Crawl

6-9 p.m. — Downtown Franklin Association & Historic Main Street District — Free entry — Explore local art, enjoy live music, and indulge in complimentary refreshments at this charming monthly event.

Chukkers for Charity Polo Event

3-7:30 p.m. — Riverview Farm — Fundraiser event — Enjoy an exciting polo match while supporting local charities in a family-friendly environment.

Monty Criswell Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — The Franklin Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a journey through the hits of Grammy-nominated songwriter Monty Criswell, filled with stories and songs.

Book Signing with Michelle Shocklee

6-8 p.m. — Landmark Booksellers — Free entry — Celebrate the launch of The Women of Oak Ridge with an engaging discussion and book signing by the author.

TWEEDS Expands Beyond Florida with Opening of New Franklin, TN Boutique

TWEEDS Suit Shop, the luxury clothing brand redefining modern menswear through personalized service and bespoke craftsmanship, is proud to announce the opening of its newest location right in the heart of downtown Franklin, Tennessee. This marks TWEEDS’ 11th boutique and its first expansion outside of Florida, led by local style consultant Drew, who brings both fashion-forward expertise and a deep understanding of Southern sophistication.