Franklin Special School District says its new Firex braising pans are a first for Tennessee, freeing cafeteria staff to make soups, sauces and mac and cheese from scratch.

Shepherds College's Empowered for Life Center opens Aug. 24 at Church of the City in Franklin, offering a two-year commuter path for adults with disabilities.

A study reported July 14 shows child‑rearing costs in Middle Tennessee rose 2.1%, adding hundreds to already strained family budgets. Child care and housing were the main drivers.