Community Visioning Project is “On the Table” in Franklin

9:23 pm | Thursday, Aug 2nd

Franklin, TN – At this morning’s “Breakfast with the Mayors,” Franklin Tomorrow introduced a new community initiative, On the Table, set for this fall.

On the Table is a one-day opportunity for people to gather in small groups around a table with friends, neighbors, colleagues and maybe even a few people meeting for the first time, to share a meal and have a real conversation about what’s important to Franklin. Tuesday, October 30 has been selected as the official date.

“Now more than ever people need to connect, engage, know their neighbors and participate in civil and civic discourse,” Mindy Tate, Executive Director for Franklin Tomorrow, explained. “We know that big ideas can spring from small conversations and that people invest in what they help create.”

On the Table conversations are intended to inspire people to take action and seize opportunities in the community. Adding a diversity of voices provides unique discussions around varying issues that matter to the community. After conversations happen, participants will be asked to share their outcomes and provide feedback around topics discussed. Franklin Tomorrow will continue to share and discuss the findings to explore ways in which Franklin can work together to create the most engaged, generous and welcoming community for all.

Franklin Tomorrow Board Chair Tim Murphy (second from left) and Executive Director Mindy Tate (fourth from left) with On the Table co-chairs (from left) Mary Lee Bennett, Jim Roberts, Allena Bell, and Patrick Baggett.

Business owners, church groups, neighborhood associations, non-profits, school clubs – anyone who lives or works in Franklin is invited to participate. Franklin Tomorrow is also looking for individuals or businesses who wish to host a table – in groups of 8-12 individuals. Those who are interested in participating or looking for more information can visit Franklin Tomorrow’s website at www.franklintomorrow.org/onthetable. Sponsorship opportunities are also available; for more information please call 615.794.0998 or email mindy@franklintomrrow.org.

Franklin Tomorrow is an independent, community-visioning nonprofit which celebrated the 15th anniversary of its founding in 2016. Its mission is to engage the community, foster collaboration, and advocate for a shared vision for the future of Franklin. Through research, programs and engagement with citizens, that shared vision is for Franklin to be a city with vibrant neighborhoods, a robust economy, distinct character and great people. As an organization, Franklin Tomorrow develops and presents programs such as the quarterly Breakfast with the Mayors and monthly FrankTalks lecture series which educate and illuminate issues facing the community as a whole.

The Sunday Market

10:00 am | Sunday, May 13th

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The Sunday Market – 5/13 (Mother’s Day)

This free event is a great way to Create Community Together. Five times a year we gather local makers and pickers and have an outdoor market. Come join us from 10-4 at the Shed behind the Factory at Franklin.

The Sunday Market

10:00 am | Sunday, Apr 8th

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The Sunday Market – 4/8, 5/13 (Mother’s Day)

This free event is a great way to Create Community Together. Five times a year we gather local makers and pickers and have an outdoor market. Our April 8th event has Amazima Ministries as our non-profit spotlight, along with food trucks, live music, a cooking demo, and more to round out your Sunday. Come join us from 10-4 at the Shed behind the Factory at Franklin.

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BrightStone’s 16th Annual Golf Benefit Swings into Success

7:55 pm | Wednesday, Oct 18th

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FRANKLIN, TN — This year’s “18 Holes for Special Souls” Jim Hinton Memorial Golf Benefit was a full day of amazing weather and deep impact. With 38 golfers and 25 support partners, this event raised over $113,000 to support programs that provide essential job training and life enhancing opportunities for adults with special needs in the community.

This golf benefit is truly one of a kind. While most events invite golfers on the green for a pay-to-play fee, our golfers commit to individually fundraise for the event! Golfers make a personal commitment to raise $3,000 or more. It’s not an obligation but a personal goal that many reach and exceed.

Helping adults with special needs is the goal. Golf is the excuse!

BrightStone would like to thank Sonic and Bar-B-Cutie for providing breakfast and Chuy’s for providing lunch to all the golfers, students, and spectators. BrightStone would also like to thank these leading event sponsors Russ Harms, Kevin Gabhart, AON Foundation, Beecher Carlson Insurance Services, Don and Beth Stinnett, and Gary and Brenda Hauk for making this event possible. You can see the full list of golf sponsors at www.BrightStoneGolf.com.

“This event is the most fun you’ll have golfing for a worthy cause,” recalled Randy Elliott, Director of Advancement for BrightStone. “The Governor’s Club in Brentwood was the perfect course to have an enjoyable day in support of BrightStone. The best part is having all the BrightStone students join us out on the course to cheer on the golfers and remind us why this program is so essential for this community.”

Even though the Golf event has come and gone this year, fundraisers are still actively reaching out to the community to continue their efforts towards making this a record year. You can visit www.BrightStoneGolf.com to learn more about how to support BrightStone and encourage these passionate men and women who have continued to serve BrightStone as a Golfer or Support Partner.

All proceeds benefit the adults who attend BrightStone and live each day with intellectual and developmental challenges. Brightstone’s mission is to provide a comprehensive work, social support, and future residential community for adults with special needs, expanding their potential and helping them develop mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. To learn more about Brightstone and their vision, please visit their website at www.BrightStone.org or call 615-790-4888.

Battle of Franklin Trust announces dinner and community conversation

5:36 pm | Monday, Sep 11th

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Event to offer thoughtful, historical discussion regarding current events

FRANKLIN, Tenn. – The Battle of Franklin Trust will offer a community conversation and dinner on Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. This intimate discussion will explore topics related to the Civil War and its aftermath, historical memory, and the future of Civil War interpretation.

“I look forward to welcoming members of the community to join in a thoughtful conversation,” said Battle of Franklin Trust CEO Eric A. Jacobson. “My hope is that individuals who are looking for a dialogue and to perhaps gain some answers can come together to have a meaningful discussion.”

The 90 minute event will take place in the Fleming Center, at Carnton, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle. The $25 cost per person will include dinner served by Puckett’s, followed by a conversation led by Jacobson.

Eric A. Jacobson is the author of three books on the American Civil War, “For Cause & For Country,” “The McGavock Confederate Cemetery,” and “Baptism of Fire.”

The Battle of Franklin Trust hopes to engage the community in an educational discussion about current events.

For more information about this event or to purchase tickets please contact Meagan Wuest, meagan@boft.org, 615-794-0903. Seating is limited.

About The Battle of Franklin Trust

The Battle of Franklin Trust is a 501(c)3 management corporation acting on behalf of Franklin’s battlefield sites to contribute to visitors’ understanding of the Nov. 30, 1864 Battle of Franklin. The Trust is organized for the charitable and educational purposes of preserving, restoring, maintaining and interpreting the properties, artifacts and documents related to the battle to preserve this important part of the nation’s history.

Upcoming Classes at County Enrichment Center at Academy Park

5:51 pm | Friday, Aug 25th

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Franklin, TN Community

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ENRICHMENT CENTER ADDS CLASSES

Children’s Art, Public Speaking, Musical Theatre Performance & more

Franklin, TN – Williamson County Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce a number of new community classes for youth and adults at the new Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. All classes are fee based and open to the public. Registration is now available at www.wcparksandrec.com.

TEEN/ADULT CLASSES

Painting with Yara Stagner

Are you interested in finding your inner painter? Join the fun in this introductory class to oil and acrylic painting techniques. The class is new to the Enrichment Center, and will be offered on an ongoing basis on Mondays, starting September 4. Each class is $20 and no pre-registration is needed. New students can join at any time. Call instructor for supply list: 615-485-9839. The class meets from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. in Franklin.

Basic Drawing

Adults can learn to draw in this drop-in class on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Learn the basics of drawing: perspective, value, color and texture. Each class will include a drawing exercise such as a face, animal or landscape. Classes are $15 each and will meet on Tuesdays. No advance registration is required-just pay the class fee at the front desk of the center.

BE YOU! A To-Do List Makeover

Learn how to make everything you do meaningful and discover YOU! Find out what your unique gifts and skills are and be happy in the present. Make your do’s, don’ts and needs reflect your hopes and dreams. BE YOU! meets Tuesdays, September 5-26 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. One-time supply fee of $12 to instructor. Register on line at www.wcparksandrec.com, activity #10127 ($25).

Introduction to Screenwriting

Students will learn the fundamentals of screenwriting including building characters and developing a story arc. Instructor Rebecca George will lead students through the steps of creating a finished short film script by the end of the course. Screenwriting meets Tuesdays, September 5-26 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. Register on line at www.wcparksandrec.com, activity #10136 ($120).

Life is a Cabaret-Musical Theatre Performance

In this fun class, students will learn stage and performance technique from professional international singer and actress Mia Rose Lynne. Students will be coached on a minimum of two songs (please bring your ideas) and participate in a performance at the end of the course. Life is a Cabaret meets Tuesdays, September 5-26 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (adults & seniors, activity #10326) or from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (ages 13-18, activity #10327). The course is $80, and registration is available at www.wcparksandrec.com.

Let’s Write a Song- Songwriting Course

No previous experience is needed in this class where students will write their own original song lyrics. The instructor will assist with adding melody and accompaniment as needed. Taught by professional international singer and actress Mia Rose Lynne. Let’s Write a Song meets Wednesdays, September 6-27 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (adults & seniors, activity #10330) or from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (ages 13-18, activity #10332). The course is $80, and registration is available at www.wcparksandrec.com.

Tap Dancing for Adults

You are never too old to learn to tap! Join the fun in new adult tap dancing classes at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Contact the Enrichment Center at (615) 786-0186 or Kristi McDonald 615-377-6530, ext. 2118 for information about joining the class.

Piano or Voice Lessons

Private weekly piano or voice lessons for adults with a focus on fun! For piano students, learn your way around the keyboard through a natural process, play songs with both hands and read music. Voice students will practice popular songs, breathing and vocal exercises as well as learn stage presence. Thirty-minute private lesson time slots are available on Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m. to noon, September 6-27 ($120) or Saturdays, September 2-30 ($150). Contact instructor Lauren D’Amato at 615-394-1258 to reserve your class time. Meets at the Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave.

Guitar, Ukulele and Mandolin Lessons

Master guitarist John D’Amato offers private lessons on the guitar, ukulele and mandolin for all ages and skill levels. Lesson plans are created with the music and songs you want to play! Lessons are available on Fridays, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the new Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Thirty-minute private lessons are $30 each, payable monthly. Contact instructor John D’Amato at 615-394-1252 to reserve your class time.

Vocal Performance Workshop

Learn to use subtext for lyrics in songs, make it real for you and the audience. Learn microphone technique, stage presence and how to express emotion through singing. Must have prior singing experience or lessons. Bring instrumental tracks and two copies of lyric sheets. Instructor: Lauren D’Amato. Vocal Performance meets Saturday, September 9 from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. $10. For ages 14 and older. To register, go to www.wcparksandrec.com, activity code #10006.

Card Making with Varada-Watercolor

Perfect for a beginner or experienced paper crafter. Explore your creativity and learn how to create handmade, unique greeting cards using different techniques and holiday themes. Card Making with Varada meets Mondays, September 11-30 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. or Saturdays, September 16-30 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Themes for September are: 3D Crafts, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. Open to ages 12 through adults. Register for these courses at www.wcparksandrec.com ($25 per class).

Flowers and Abstracts that Pop

This art workshop focuses on creating impressionist floral designs that literally POP off the canvas! Bold color choices mixed with unique designs and texture will help participants bring authenticity to their work. Workshops meet Thursday, September 12 or 19 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the new Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Register for workshops at www.wcparksandrec.com ($40). Instructor: Caroline Thompson.

Watercolor for Beginners

Learn the foundation of watercolor painting in this fun afternoon class. Discover techniques to create watercolor effects, and leave with your own painting. For all ages and beginners (age 16 through adults). Watercolor for Beginners meets Friday, September 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Register for the class at www.wcparksandrec.com ($50, #9855).

Simply Speaking

Need to speak to a group or make a wedding toast? Does the thought of public speaking make your heart pound or mouth go dry? Discover the confident speaker inside you in this class. Overcome your fear of public speaking, and learn tips and coping skills to make you confident enough to speak in front of a group. Class meets Saturday, September 16 (activity #10052) or September 30 (#10053) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. ($30). Register on line at www.wcparksandrec.com, .

Floral Watercolors

In this intermediate watercolor class, students will paint from a live floral subject. Students will learn to sketch out what they see and learn to paint the layers to create a stunning watercolor floral painting. Students should have a basic knowledge of watercolor or have some experience in the medium. Sketching skills will be taught in class. Bring your own supplies. Offered Sunday, September 17, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ($50). Register online at www.wcparksandrec.com, code # 9860. Instructor: Amanda Harrison. For more information contact Amanda at amandaharrisondesigns@gmail.com or 615-582-8938.

KIDS’ FUN

Rhythm & Spirit Youth Dance, Cheer & Tumble

Join the fun in Rhythm and Spirit dance, cheer and tumble evening classes for ages 10-18 at the Williamson County Enrichment Center at Academy Park, 110 Everbright Ave. Hip Hop is offered on Mondays; Ballet and Cheer/Tumble on Tuesdays; and Ballet or Jazz on Thursdays. For a complete schedule and registration information, go to www.wcparksandrec.com or contact KristiMcDonald at 615-377-6530, ext. 2118.

Piano or Voice Lessons

Young Rembrandts-Drawing for Kids

Inspire your child’s love of art (ages 6-13) with Young Rembrandts. Students will enjoy learning and painting in a creative environment, including outdoors. Young Rembrandts-Drawing will meet on Mondays, September 25-October 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Williamson County Enrichment Center, 110 Everbright Ave. For more information, or to register, go to www.wcparksandrec.com, $100, activity code #10034; or www.youngrembrandts.com.

Williamson County Parks and Recreation is a public organization, here to benefit the community. Anyone may register for and participate in the department’s programs, teams, classes and events. For program registration, pass purchasing or additional information, visit www.wcparksandrec.com. You may also receive department information by “liking” Williamson County Parks and Recreation on Facebook; following us on Twitter at @wc_parksandrec or Instagram at @willcoparksandrec or on Pinterest or YouTube.

Franklin, TN Community – Join the new Williamson County Community Chorus

7:24 pm | Friday, Aug 4th

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Franklin, TN Community – Events and Things to Do in Franklin, TN

JOIN THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY COMMUNITY CHORUS

Singers wanted for new chorus group

Franklin, TN – The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department (WCPR) is pleased to announce the formation of a new Williamson County Community Chorus. Laurie Kamunen, Program Administrator for WCPR, said the new chorus is forming in response to community interest. “We have had many inquiries about forming a community chorus, and we are excited to be able to start this new program.”

Kamunen stated that the chorus will be open to all, and will be multi-generational. “Anyone 18 or older who has a desire to sing and perform is invited to join. With all the talented people in Williamson County, this should be an outstanding group!” Kamunen stated that the chorus will perform at concerts, community events and other venues.

The first rehearsal of the Williamson County Community Chorus will be announced soon, and anyone interested in joining should contact Janey Mason with Williamson County Parks and Recreation at (615) 302-0971, ext. 2216 or janeym@williamson-tn.org.

Shop with a Cop

8:33 pm | Tuesday, Dec 20th

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Presents, shop with a cop family events, Franklin, TN community, shopping, restaurants, kids activities, churches, stores, parks and more with FranklinIs.

Earlier this month, police officers from all across Williamson County will help make Christmas for families who are down on their luck this year a little brighter.

The Morris Heithcock Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #41, in Franklin, TN, will hold their annual Shop with a Cop event with 150 children from pre-screened families have been selected to do their Christmas shopping with local police officers who will spend more than $30,000 generously donated by local residents and businesses.

“This is something that we look forward to every year,” said Lodge President and Franklin Police Detective Andy Green. “The help that we’re able to provide Williamson County families who have had a challenging year is only possible because of the community’s generosity, and an incredibly caring group of men and women who wear a badge.”

FrankTalks Lecture

9:00 am | Monday, Sep 12th

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Franklin Tomorrow’s monthly FrankTalks lecture on Monday, Sept. 12, will focus on the importance of school bus ridership and trends in student transportation as the kickoff event of Williamson Inc.’s Williamson County Mobility Week.

FrankTalks is a monthly series, presented by Vanderbilt University’s Office of Community, Neighborhood and Government Relations. Nissan is the presenting sponsor of Mobility Week, which will continued Sept 12-16 with a different focus daily on practical ways that the community can work collaboratively as a community to reduce traffic congestion on our roadways.

On Sept. 12, FrankTalks will feature a panel on school bus transportation, as well as innovations in school bus safety, technology tools for parents to better track their child, as well as ways to improve walkability around area schools and in neighborhoods as children walk to their bus stops.

FrankTalks will be held at Freedom Middle School, 750 New Highway 96 West, in Franklin, with a ribbon cutting and coffee social starting at 9 a.m. Directional signs will point to parking at the adjacent Poplar Grove School and how to enter the building for the meeting.

The program will start at 9:30 a.m. and is free to the public thanks to the generous partnerships supporting the series.