The New Residents' Guide (oct. '22 - mar. '23)

TO THE AREAWelcome

Congratulations! You have chosen one of the most beautiful and prosperous areas in the country to call home. The Middle Tennessee region provides a high quality of life for its residents, no matter the town or city in which you may reside. These thriving suburbs of Williamson and Maury Counties are located due south of Nashville.

Whether your move was across town or across country, moving into a new home is tough. In fact, relocation is ranked one of the top five most stressful life events. Relocating to a new state and community takes you out of your comfort zone, away from friends and family, and what you know as familiar.

The New Residents’ Guide is your go-to guide to help you and your family get acclimated to the community and the region. The business advertisers look forward to providing the products and services you may be seeking as a new resident. We’re glad you’re here. Welcome to Middle Tennessee. Welcome home!

-- The New Residents’ Guide

Engage

the cover . . .

Four rail fences have been used for centuries on

Experience Maury

Photo: TrentonLeePhotography.com

W W W . E X P E R I E N C E M A U R Y . C O M

Cities And Towns

Average Temps

Middle Tennessee enjoys four distinct seasons...winter, spring, summer, and fall. Winter here is generally mild, spring and fall months comfortable, and summer is typically hot and humid. The region receives approximately 53-55 inches of rain and four inches of snow annually. Middle Tennessee has an average of 211 sunny days a year. The coldest month is January, and the hottest months are July and August. The area typically has its last frost by mid-April and the first freeze by mid-October.

Dylan and Scout, Owners

Photos: Winter, VisitFranklin.com; Spring & Summer, Debbie Karnes, Debbie-Karnes.pixels.com; Fall, TrentonLeePhotography.com

PUBLISHER

The New Residents’ Guide is mailed directly to new residents in Williamson County and Maury County, Tennessee and available digitally at TheNewResidentsGuide.com. The New Residents’ Guide magazine is published twice a year. The publisher has made every effort to verify the accuracy of all information, however assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. © Copyright 2022 Perennial Communications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Publisher and Editorial Director

Linda Eaves, Owner, Perennial Communications, LLC P.O. Box 695, Nolensville, TN 37135 615-624-1805

STAFF

Advertising Director: Linda Eaves, thenewresidentsguide@gmail.com

Advertising: Denise O’Neil

Art Director: Eric Roe, X-ActDesign@gmx.com

Editorial: Lynette Murphy

Writer: Jennifer Thompson

Social Media/Writer: Megan Vescio

The Great Outdoors

In addition to 56 Tennessee State Parks, there are 85 State Natural Areas with hiking trails, waterfalls, native plants, forests, and animal species, plus rivers and streams. While a few state Natural Areas are located within state parks, these areas are protected lands and represent some of the most unique and treasured outdoor resources in the state. Check the online events schedule for guided hikes and tours or find a natural area to explore on your own. TN.gov/environment/program-areas/na-natural-areas

Vacation Check Requests

Several police departments in the area will offer extra patrols of your neighbor hood while you are away, if requested. Contact your local police department and request a vacation check at your residence or business whenever you are out of town.

Let’s Fly Away

Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the largest public airport in Middle Tennessee and is located 8 miles east of downtown Nashville off I-40.

Information: FlyNashville.com

see is there is no state income tax. However, residents do pay property tax and sales tax. While residential property tax rates vary from city to city, the Williamson County tax is $1.88 per $100 assessed property valuation and $1.91 in Maury County. Taxes are due October 1 and are delinquent after March 1. Sales tax in Williamson and Maury County is 9.75%. This includes a Tennessee state sales tax of 7% and a county tax of 2.75%.

Need Help? Call 2-1-1

Whether you need assistance or you know someone who does, the 211 Helpline can be a key resource for individuals and families navigating tough times. Through the United Way of Greater Nashville, the 211 Helpline is a 24/7, 365-day information and referral help line. Serving 42 counties in Middle Tennessee, the 211 Helpline is staffed by trained specialists and supports a database of more than 10,000 health and human service programs. These services can assist with healthcare, employment, rent and utility assistance, SNAP (food stamps), senior services, basic needs (food, clothing, shelter), counseling and mental health, domestic violence assistance, legal help, affordable housing, childcare, and after-school programs.

Photo: TN Tourism

TENNESSEE claimed its statehood June 1, 1796. The nickname Volunteer State was given to Tennessee during the War of 1812 when 1,500 volunteer soldiers joined General Andrew Jackson in New Orleans and defeated the British. The nickname became more renowned when Tennesseans fought at the Alamo with Tennessee frontiersman and Congressman, Davy Crockett.

Today the state’s population is over 6.9 million. Tennessee has 95 counties and three grand divisions: Middle, East, and West Tennessee which are each represented on the state flag with a white star.

In MIDDLE TENNESSEE, Nashville is the capital and the largest city, with 715,800 residents. Known as Music City, Nashville is home to the Grand Ole Opry, the longest running live radio program in the world. Nashville is known for all genres of music including country, bluegrass, rock ’n’ roll, and the blues, performed live in the city’s downtown honky tonks. Several music museums are located downtown including the National Museum of African American Music, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and museums spotlighting industry giants like Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline.

In EAST TENNESSEE you can climb to the state’s highest point, 6,643 feet, at Clingman’s Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Smokies is the most visited national park in the U.S. with no entrance fee. Knoxville is the largest city in East Tennessee and is home to the University of Tennessee. Nearby is the city of Oak Ridge, once known as the “secret city” where the first atomic bomb was built in 1943.

In UPPER EAST TENNESSEE, about 300 miles east of Nashville, is the city of Bristol, home to NASCAR Bristol Motor Speedway.

Chattanooga is in the SOUTHEASTERN part of the state and is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, the 13-mile paved Riverwalk, and the Ten nessee River, which snakes near downtown. Chattanooga is chock-full of Civil War history, and the Chattamuaga and Chattanooga National Military Parks are the perfect places to explore.

Known for barbecue, the blues, and rock ‘n’ roll music, Memphis is the prominent city in WEST TENNESSEE. Key landmarks are Graceland (home of Elvis Presley) and Beale Street where B.B. King once performed. The longest pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River is located here, linking downtown Memphis and Arkansas.

Trip planning guides can be found at tnvacation.com.

Photo: Memphis Tourism/Kevin Brewer

Photo: TN Tourism

Photo: TN Tourism

Photo: TN Tourism

Williamson County, founded in 1799, became a strategic battleground during the Civil War in 1864. Over 160 histori cal markers note event sites and structures including Civil War battle sites, historic churches, and ancient Indian mounds. Today Williamson County is an economically thriving suburb of Nashville with over 40 corporate headquarters. The county’s school system also touts the highest high school graduation rate in the state.

County Offices

Franklin serves as the county seat with offices located at 1320 Main Street. Most departments are housed here including the

Mayor, County Clerk, Register of Deeds, and Property Assessor. For a listing of departments, go to: williamsoncountytn.gov.

Historical Attractions & Downtown Festivals

Notable historical attractions centered mostly around Civil War history include the Carnton and Carter House, Lotz House Museum, McLemore House, Battle of Franklin at Winstead Hill Park, and the McGavock Confederate Cemetery, all located in Franklin. For more information go to visitfranklin.com.

Community Parks, Sports, & Performing Arts

Williamson County Parks and Recreation hosts over 50 events and manages wellness centers and sports complexes in Brentwood, Nolensville, Franklin, Fairview, Spring Hill, Bethesda, College Grove, and Leiper’s Fork. They oversee 23 parks, trails, and ath letic facilities. Timberland Park, located on Natchez Trace Parkway, south of the Hwy. 96 entrance, has hiking trails, an Interpretive Center with educational displays, and a butterfly garden. There are guided hikes, history programs, and a Junior Natural ist Camp. At Grassland Park you’ll find a sensory garden, and Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park has miles of mountain biking trails.

This department also manages organized sports leagues and summer youth camps and therapeutic activities for youth and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, along with music and performing arts programs at the Performing Arts Center in Franklin. For more information go to wcparksandrec.com.

AgExpo Park & County Fair

The AgExpo Park and Arena is located on 110 acres at 4215 Long Lane in Franklin. The Arena seats 4,100 people and hosts livestock shows and com munity events. The Williamson County Fair is held here in early August. For County Fair information go to williamsoncountyfair.org or for the AgExpo Park go to williamsoncounty-tn.gov.

TOP RATED SCHOOL SYSTEMS

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SCHOOLS have nearly 42,000 students enrolled, Pre-K to 12th grade. The district oversees 50 schools including 11 high schools, 11 middle schools, 27 elementary schools, and one K-8 school. The school system holds an Exemplary designation which is the highest rank ing awarded by the state for academic growth and achieve ment.

Children entering kindergarten must be five years old by August 15 of the current year. A complete list of enrollment instructions and required documents can be found at wcs.edu. Go to about us, then select enrollment.

FRANKLIN SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT (FSSD) is a K-8 school system with 3,800 students. The district manages eight schools including four elementary schools, an interme diate school, a middle school, and a K-8 school. The district’s students typically score in the top 10% of Tennessee school districts in the TNReady achievement testing. To determine if your child is zoned for FSSD and to register your child, go to fssd.org, then to about us.

Williamson County Schools

1320 W. Main Street • Franklin • 615-472-4000 • wcs.edu

Franklin Special School District Central Office 507 New Highway 96 West • Franklin • 615-794-6624 • fssd.org

Franklin is known for preserving its past and strategically planning its future. For that reason, the city has garnered multiple awards and accolades including Best Southern Town and Top Business Friendly City. In August 2020, the city was honored as one of 10 All-America City award winners. The National Civic League recognized Franklin for its work in inclusive civic engagement by addressing health and wellbeing and creating stronger connections among residents, businesses, and nonprofit and government leaders.

Explore the History & Downtown Festivals

The city, founded in 1799, is the county seat of Williamson County. History is part of the fabric here, making Franklin a favorite tourist destination. Civil War enthusiasts can tour the Battle of Franklin site, where there were over 10,000 injuries and casualties. For a change of pace, you can survey the downtown’s Victorian architecture and explore the historically restored buildings like the Franklin Theatre at 419 Main. The

615-791-3217

theatre was recently renovated into a state-of-the-art music venue and hosts theatrical productions and movies. Historic Downtown Franklin encompasses 16 square blocks of antique and gift shops, restaurants, and clothing boutiques. Downtown is also the stage to several annual festivals including Main Street Festival, Franklin on the Fourth, Pumpkinfest, and Dickens of a Christmas. To get a closer look at the city’s history, you can take a free self-guided walking tour, such as the African American Heritage tour or the Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt. Brochures are available at the Visitors Center located at 400 Main Street or go to visitfranklin.com.

Cool Springs Shopping

Residents looking for a modern shopping experience will enjoy the Cool Springs area with more than 200 restaurants, national chain stores, and the Cool Springs Galleria, home to 150 specialty shops and department store chains.

Transportation & City Services

The city of Franklin offers several amenities for its residents. Bus and trolley service are available throughout the city for a small fee and are provided by Franklin Transit Authority. The Transit Authority also provides flexible pickup and drop-off locations for seniors and disabled passengers. Go to franklintransit.org for details and a map of trolley and bus routes. The city also provides weekly residential garbage and recycling pickup, plus yard waste and seasonal leaf pickup. Go to: franklintn.gov/services/find-my-city-services.

Youth Organized Sports

Adult and youth recreational sports opportunities are coordinated through the Williamson County Parks and Recre ation Department. (wcparksandrec.com) In addition, several independent youth sports associations manage teams such as Franklin Baseball Club. (fbcbaseball.org) Youth football and cheerleading are managed by the Franklin Cowboys. (franklincowboys.org) Grassland Athletic Association also organizes youth sports including baseball, basketball, softball, and volleyball. (playgrassland.com) The Williamson County Soccer Association offers indoor and outdoor seasonal soccer leagues. (williamsoncountysoccer.com) In addition, Albion SC Nashville offers youth training camps and travel team competi tive play. (albionscnashville.org) Youth sports leagues also are offered at public and private schools.

Parks, Festivals, & Harpeth River Recreation

The City Parks Department hosts roughly 20 annual commu nity events and maintains 18 parks, all with varying amenities like walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and fishing ponds. One of the most picturesque city parks is the 200-acre Park at Harlinsdale Farm, 239 Franklin Road, which was once home to the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, Midnight Sun. Here you’ll find a four-acre dog park, three-acre catch and release fishing pond, 5k soft turf track for walking or running, and an equestrian trail. In September, Harlinsdale Farm is the stage for the annual Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival. Family Day is held here in November and is a free event with a petting zoo, hayrides, and farm festivities. For those wanting to explore nearby rivers and streams, the Har peth River is a favorite waterway for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The river winds through Franklin, and the city maintains several access points. Go to franklintn.gov for a listing of river access points plus additional city parks information.

Historic Preservation

Leading the charge for over 55 years, the nonprofit Heritage Foundation of Williamson County has saved the region’s his toric places and stories that matter. Through preservation, edu cation, and advocacy, the Foundation offers free workshops, lectures, community festivals, and performing arts experiences. The Foundation manages four historical entities in Franklin including the Downtown Franklin Association, The Franklin Theatre, Franklin Grove Estate and Gardens, and the History and Culture Center of Williamson County, TN. Get involved at www.WilliamsonHeritage.org.

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TIPS FOR SETTLING INTO YOUR NEW HOME

Relocation, whether you are moving across town or across the country, is stressful. Here are several helpful strategies and reminders to make settling into your new home and community a bit smoother.

Identify a local physician, dentist, and eye doctor and schedule an appointment. Once established, contact your previous medical providers and request your files be transferred to your new doctors.

Be a recycling rockstar! Recycle your moving boxes at a local Williamson or Maury County Convenience Center. Go online to: williamsoncounty-tn.gov/1846/convenience-centers for a map of locations and accepted recyclables. In Maury County go to: maurycounty-tn.gov/317/solid-waste.

Visit the local library and get a library card for every family member. Ask about the library’s online media access to download books, music, and movies to your smart device.

Review your insurance policies including homeowner’s, renter’s, and vehicle insurance. Make sure you are adequately covered and your agent has your new contact information.

Complete a change of address with the post office as well as for your credit cards, investments, and insurance policies. Make certain your mail is being forwarded to your new home.

Spend time in your new home locating the fuse box, water main, heating and cooling systems, and automatic sprinkler system controls and learn the basic operation of each. Also, check or install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check that each has working batteries and is operational.

Contact the local parks and recreation department or sports leagues about camps and sports teams you and your children might join.

Register your children at their new school. If you have time, volunteer at your child’s school and get to know other parents.

Say hello! Meet your neighbors and build a good rapport with the folks who live on your street or in your apartment complex.

Got pets? Identify a local veterinarian and transfer your pet’s medical records to your pet’s new doctor. Learn more about caring for your pet in this region of the United States on page 36.

Check your home’s exterior, clearing all gutters and drains from debris to avoid water backing up when it rains.

Check all air filters throughout the home and change every 90 days, or if you have pets in the home, every 60 days. If you’re in an apartment, ask the management if you are responsible for air filter changes.

Read your new home’s inspection report and consider repairs as recommended by the home inspector.

Have your home’s exterior locks changed should the previous owner have shared keys with an outside party.

Relax and be a tourist for a day. Stop by the Williamson County Visitors Center located at 400 Main Street, #200 in downtown Franklin, or in Maury County the Visitors Center is located at 302 7th Street in Columbia. There you’ll find regional attraction information, a Tennessee Vacation Guide, and state map. Check out statewide travel options at tnvacation.com.

BRENTWOOD

Meticulous visioning and planning describes how city leaders of Brentwood have carefully preserved the community’s rolling pastureland and green spaces while welcoming residen tial and commercial growth. In the late 1960s when Interstate 65 was extended into Williamson County, community leaders realized growth and development was inevitable. They created a planned vision for Brentwood that would preserve the commu nity’s character and beauty. When the city incorporated in 1969, the population was less than 5,000 people. Today over 45,000 residents call this Nashville suburb home.

City Governance

Brentwood’s seven-member elected commission oversees the city’s programs. The city manager and staff run the day-to-day operations. Residents can volunteer to serve on a city board such as the Park Board, Historic Commission, the Library Board, or others. To find out how to get involved, go to BrentwoodTN.gov.

Parks, Trails & Festivals

The city touts over 14 parks, plus greenways comprised of nearly 1,000 acres. Crockett Park has athletic fields, picnic tables, tennis courts, a disc golf course, and a playground. The Eddy Arnold Amphitheater is located here and is the site of the annual Brentwood Summer Concert Series and annual 4th of July Cel ebration. Other park facilities include Deerpark Arboretum and Nature Center with walking and bike trails, ponds, and a nature center. Granny White Park has walking trails, a pavilion, tennis courts, and the Miles Together inclusive playground. Tower Park is a 47-acre park with walking and bike trails and Miss Peggy’s Dog Park. Smith Park is home to historic Ravenswood Mansion and has over six miles of rugged hiking trails with impressive vis tas. There are also paved walking and bike trails, athletic fields, a picnic shelter, restrooms, and a playground. For a complete listing of parks go to: brentwoodtn.gov/departments/parks-recreation.

Library Services

The John P. Holt Brentwood Library is a premier municipal library. The library, located at 8109 Concord Rd., has a walking trail and an arboretum.

Organized Sports

Adult and youth sports are available through the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department. (wcparksandrec.com)

In addition, several independent sports associations coordinate leagues. Brentwood Blaze (brentwoodblaze.org) offers camps for football, cheer, and team play for ages 5-12. Brentwood Ball Club (brentwoodballclub.com) organizes basketball, baseball, and softball. Other sports league listings for soccer, tennis, and swimming are at brentwoodtn.gov.

Good to Know

The city of Brentwood does not provide trash pickup for its residents. Homeowners must contract with a private waste management company.

Photo: City of Brentwood

WSM TOWER

A Brentwood Landmark

The large red-and-white diamond shaped transmission tower, located on Concord Road, is the WSM-AM radio tower. WSM radio is known for broad casting the Grand Ole Opry, which helped establish Nashville’s reputation as the “country music capital.” WSM radio also broadcasted news and public-service programming to millions of people in rural America. The WSM-AM tower has been a part of the Brentwood landscape since 1932 and is one of the oldest oper ating broadcast towers in the United States. In 1931 WSM was federally designated as one of 14 national clear channels and was granted the ability to reach 40 states and transmit at full power at night.

Today, the WSM tower stands 808 feet tall and was once the tallest structure in the United States when it was 878 feet tall. The tower’s size was reduced in 1939 so transmission could reach Chattanooga.

The site was specifically chosen for its deep bed rock, needed to support the massive tower. Near the tower is a Colonial Revival-style broadcasting station known as the Tower Tuning House, also built in 1932. The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

CUSTOM MADE

GUARANTEED

Photo: The Cultural Landscape Foundation

NOLENSVILLE

William Nolen, a Revolutionary War veteran, founded Nolensville in 1797. He, his wife Sarah, and their five children were heading west when their wagon wheel broke. He decided to settle here with his family, and the town was later named after him, as Nolensville.

Parks & Trails

Today, small-town charm, high-caliber schools, and proximity to Nashville have been credited to the doubling of the popula tion over the last 10 years. Community amenities include No lensville Park located along Mill Creek, near the historic down town. The park has athletic fields, a dog park, a playground, and a walking trail. The paved walking and bike trail runs from the Historic School at town center, through Nolensville Park, and ends at York Road, near Millcreek Middle School. A trail spur on Sunset Road allows residents to walk or bike to sports fields, the farmer’s market, restaurants, and shops on Nolensville Road.

A significant part of Nolensville’s landscape is Mill Creek, a 27.9-mile-long tributary of the Cumberland River that extends through the town into Nashville/Davidson County. Mill Creek is the only known habitat for the endangered Nashville Crayfish.

Organized Sports

Organized youth sports are available through Williamson County Parks and Recreation (wcparksandrec.com) or Nolensville Youth Athletics. (playnya.com) Sports offered include softball, baseball, soccer, football, cheer, and basketball. Albion SC Nashville offers training camps and travel team competitive play. (albionscnashville.org) Youth sports are also offered at local public schools.

Festivals

In mid-April, Nolensville hosts the Buttercup Festival in the historic downtown. This one-day event features live music, food trucks, pony and train rides, and more than 100 artisan and craft vendors. The Veterans Day Parade is celebrated in November on Veterans Day or the first Saturday before. Independence Day is celebrated at Nolensville Park typically on the Saturday before July 4th with live music, food trucks, and fireworks. The volun teer-run Nolensville Community Events committee manages town-sponsored festivals. Residents may serve on a volunteer board or committee by applying at nolensvilletn.gov.

Photo: Town of Nolensville

MUSIC CITY Nashville!

Nashville is often referred to as Music City and is home to over 700,000 residents. It is a top tourist destination with its culturally rich historic attractions to its glitzy party-town and live music atmosphere… earning the city its nickname Nashvegas. Music lovers can get their fill of all types of live music played at downtown bars, honky-tonks, and cafes. See for yourself what the fuss is about - and be sure to bring along your out-of-town guests. Nashville is located north of Williamson and Maury County via I-65. Here’s just a sample of the museums, parks, and attractions you’ll find throughout the city. Discover even more at visitmusiccity.com.

Museums

• Learn the history of country music and see the memorabilia of some of your favorite artists at the Country Music Hall of Fame located downtown.

• Explore the history of our state from prehistoric times to pres ent day at the Tennessee State Museum. The museum is located next to the Farmer’s Market at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Blvd. and Jefferson Street. Admission is free.

• The National Museum of African American Music is one of Nashville’s newest museums located at 510 Broadway down town. The history of Black music is showcased with state-of-theart technology and 1,500 artifacts throughout the museum’s seven galleries.

• The Frist Art Museum, located at 919 Broadway, hosts travel ing art exhibits and special events throughout the year. The museum’s Martin Art Quest Gallery is a permanent space where guests engage in hands-on art experiences that promote creativ ity and critical thinking for all ages.

Parks

• Centennial Park is a 132 acre park located at 2500 West End Avenue downtown near Vanderbilt University. Featured is the iconic Parthenon building with the re-creation of the statue Athena as the focus, along with a walking trail, Lake Watauga, a dog park, and more.

• Radnor Lake State Park is a 1,368 acre park located at 1160 Otter Creek Rd, just north of Brentwood. This urban park has excellent wildlife viewing along with environmental education programs at the aviary education center.

Attractions & Landmarks

• Bridgestone Arena is home of the NHL’s Nashville Predators and is also a top venue for live music concerts and events.

• Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a 1930s estate that includes a historic mansion, 55 acres of gardens, an arboretum, and museum. The venue hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals year-round.

• Broadway is the focal street located in the heart of downtown Nashville lined with honky-tonks, bars, and shops, making it a big draw for country music lovers and tourists.

• AT&T Building is better known as the Batman Building. When you come upon the Nashville skyline, this building stands apart. Locals fondly refer to it the “Batman Building” because its distinctive design resembles the comic book superhero’s mask.

• Schermerhorn Symphony Center is the home of the Nashville Symphony. The Schermerhorn is a stunning building, constructed in a Neo-Classical style architecture and is located at One Symphony Place downtown.

• Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is six miles south of downtown. The zoo has more than 3,000 animals representing more than 325 different species.

Professional Sports

Sports enthusiasts will find a team to root for with several professional sports teams calling Nashville home.

• Nashville Sounds AAA Minor League Baseball

• Nashville Predators hockey

• Tennessee Titans football

• Nashville Soccer Club

Photo: TrentonLeePhotography.com

Photo: TrentonLeePhotography.com

GETTING YOUR CAR TAGSGETTING YOUR CAR TAGS

The County Clerk’s office handles motor vehicle registration and renewal.

In Williamson County, the office is at 1320 W. Main Street, Suite 135, Franklin 615-790-5712 williamsoncounty-tn.gov/166/motor-vehicles

Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

In Maury County, the office is at 10 Public Square, Columbia 931-375-5200 maurycounty-tn.gov/216/motor-vehicles

Monday – Friday 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

SECURING VEHICLE TAGS FOR THE FIRST TIME

Take the following documents to the County Clerk’s office in the county where you reside:

• Proof of identification such as a driver’s license, current passport, original birth certificate, or military ID

Or two of: a work check stub with your full name, social security card, a health insurance card, or IRS tax forms

• The vehicle’s out-of-state title or if there is a lien, the name and mailing address of the lien holder

• Proof of new residency with your name and address

• Current out-of-state vehicle registration

• In Williamson County the fee is $65.75, plus $11 if there is a lien. In Maury County the fee is $73.

CAR TAG RENEWAL KIOSK LOCATIONS

Annually, the County Clerk’s office will mail your car tag renewal notification. Take your current registration to a local kiosk, scan the bar code, swipe your debit or credit card, and receive a decal to place on your license plate.

In Williamson County car tags are renewable annually for $54.75 per vehicle and in Maury County $54.00. Kiosk stations are at the following locations, or renew in person, online, or via mail.

Williamson County

• Brentwood Sports Complex

• Fairview Recreation Center

• Franklin Recreation Center

• Longview Recreation Center

• Nolensville Recreation Center

• Williamson County Administrative Office Lobby 1320 W. Main Street, Franklin

Maury County

• Spring Hill City Hall

• Mount Pleasant Courthouse

& DRIVER’S LICENSE& DRIVER’S LICENSE

Whether you are a new resident or relocating within the state, you must obtain a Tennessee driver’s license within 30 days after establishing residency. New residents may visit any Tennessee full-service Driver’s Service Center to get a new driver’s license.

GETTING YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE

You will need to take the following documents:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship with your original birth certificate, Lawful Permanent Resident Status or Temporary Legal Presence documents.

• Two (2) proofs of Tennessee residency with your name and physical home address such as a mailed bank statement, utility bill, rent or mortgage documents, current homeowners, life or health insurance policy, voter registration card, or motor vehicle registration.

• Proof of Social Security number, if one has been issued, such as your original Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or payroll check stub showing the full number.

• Current State License/ID, with proof of name change if required.

• A completed Application for a Tennessee Driver’s License. Go here to complete the application in advance dl.safety.tn.gov or complete at the center.

It is not required, but recommended to schedule an appointment online: www.tn.gov/content/tn/safety/driv er-services/online.html#Appointments

Note: Make sure your license has a REAL ID status if you are planning domestic air travel or entering a federal facility. Go to: www.tn.gov/tnrealid/what-is-real-id.html

AREA FULL-SERVICE DRIVER SERVICES CENTERS

Hours: 8:30 am- 5:00 pm

• Franklin Center 3830 Carothers Parkway, Franklin

• Nashville/Hickory Hollow Center 5216 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch

• Nashville/Hart Lane Center 624 Hart Lane, Nashville

• Columbia Center 1701 Hampshire Pike, Columbia

• Nashville/Downtown Center

William R. Snodgrass Building, 3rd Floor 312 Rosa Parks Ave., Entrance on 7th Ave.

For a list of Tennessee Driver Services Centers go to: tn.gov/safety/driver-services/locations.

Helpful Hint: Allow up to two hours or more to get your driver’s license, as there is typically a lengthy wait at most centers. The best time to go is in the morning when the center opens. Service Centers typically do not accept customers in the late afternoon if others are waiting.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO...

Car tags are handled by the County Clerk and driver’s license by the Tennessee Driver Services office. These agencies are not at the same location and are two different government entities. You can not get your car tags and driver’s license at the same location.

REGISTER TO VOTE

Y

ou may register to vote at either the County Clerk’s office or a Driver’s Services Center. You can also pick up a Voter’s Registration Application at any public library or election commission office, and once completed, mail it to the election commission. All registered voters will receive a voter’s registration card in the mail, confirming your registra tion. An online application is available at: sos.tn.gov.

Williamson County Election Commission

1405 Downs Blvd Franklin, TN 37064 • 615-790-5711 williamsoncounty-tn.gov/40/election-commission

Maury County Election Commission

1207A Tradewinds Drive Columbia, TN 38401 • 931-375-6001 maurycounty-tn.gov/227/election-commission

Fairview is located in the northwest region of Williamson County. In the 1950s when Nashville started growing, so did Fairview, prompting community leaders to incorporate the city in 1959. Located at Highway 100 and Deer Ridge Rd., Fairview’s Historical Village is home to several historical buildings including the Triangle School, Boone Street Medical Clinic, and Jingo Post Office.

Recreation, Parks, & the Arts

Williamson County Parks and Recreation operates the Fairview Recreation Complex with an outdoor pool, athletic fields, play ground, wellness center, and walking trails. Veterans Memorial Park has four baseball fields, a public fishing lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. The annual Fishing Rodeo is held here in June. The annual July 3rd Celebration is held at City Hall and features live music, food trucks, kids activities, and a fireworks show. The Fairview Arts Council is also an active community group, welcoming creatives to join in arts education and collaboration. The council organizes the Art and Handmade Expo in June. For more information go to: fairviewartscouncil.org.

Organized Sports

The Fairview Recreation Association is a volunteer group that manages youth baseball, softball, and basketball leagues. (fairviewrec.com) Williamson County Parks and Recreation also offers organized sports leagues for youth and adults. (wcparksandrec.com)

Crown Jewel of Fairview: Bowie Nature Park

The park is managed by the city’s parks department and has 700 acres of forest, fishing lakes, and 17 miles of wooded trails desig nated for mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking. The park sponsors numerous nature activities including festivals, guided hikes, stargazing, and nature learning programs for children. The nature center features exhibits, a discovery room, and hands-on learning classrooms. Bowie Nature Park is located at 7211 Bowie Lake Road. For more information go to: bowiepark.org.

AS CASH!

Photo: Bowie Nature Park

Getting Acquainted

Tips for Connecting Locally

The boxes are (almost) unpacked, you’ve memorized your new address, and now it’s time to connect with your new hometown. Meeting new people, navigating your way around town, and finding activities you enjoy are key steps in getting connected to a community. Here are a few ideas to get you started in making new friends and plugging into your new hometown.

Shop local. Support local businesses and chat with the shop-keeper about the area.

Explore area parks, walking trails, and historical sites.

Local libraries have a plethora of learning programs and classes, book clubs, plant swaps, and activities for children, teens, and adults alike.

Join a church or place of worship.

Volunteer to help during a local festival or serve on a city or town committee.

Check out the city and county parks and recreation programs such as movies in the park, seasonal festivals, sports leagues, art and dance classes, guided hikes, and local theatre and music productions.

Find a local farmer’s market or a pick-your-own farm and enjoy the local bounty.

Join a local civic club, gardening, hiking, or art club to meet people with similar interests.

All of our featured businesses are based right here in Middle Tennessee. Support your new neighbors and strengthen your community. Be sure to tell them you found them in

SPRING

Spring Hill is located in both Williamson and Maury Counties. Historic mansions, churches, and plantations still stand, serving as a reminder of the early settlers. The most notable plantation is Rippavilla, built in 1855, and is open for tours. Adjacent to the mansion is the Battle of Spring Hill Civil War site and cemeteries. Spring Hill has 24 historic markers highlighting the city’s history from battlefield sites to homes of Confederate Generals.

City Services

The city provides residential and commercial trash pickup and contracts with Waste Management that provides weekly curbside garbage pickup. Recyclables are collected every other week. For more information go to springhilltn.org.

Parks & Recreation

Residents can enjoy plenty of green spaces to play, relax, or exercise at one of the city’s five parks. The 30-acre Fischer Park (formerly Port Royal Park) is the city’s largest park, with an ADA accessible playground, a splash pad, restrooms, athletic fields, tennis and basketball courts, a walking path, pavilions, and an amphitheater for movie nights. The Walnut Street Skate Park is designed for skateboards, inline skates, BMX and freestyle bicycles, and non-motorized scooters. Other parks include: Harvey Park with playgrounds and a walking track; Evans Park with athletic fields, dog park, pavil ions and playgrounds, and McLemore Park with picnic areas, grills, playground, and basketball courts.

Organized Sports

Several youth leagues offer local competitive team play for ages 4-18.

• Spring Hills Lions Club, springhilltnlionsclub.org: baseball and softball

• South Williamson Athletics, swatn.org: baseball, softball, basketball, and volleyball

• Spring Hill Hawks, springhillhawks.com: soccer, football, flag football, and cheerleading

• Williamson County Raptors, wilcoraptors.com: football, ages 5-12, and cheerleading, ages 4-14

Economic Growth & Welcome Center

In 2023 Spring Hill will be home to the General Motors assembly plant to begin production of the all-electric Cadillac LYRIQ. In addition, the Ultium Cells LLC battery plant will create the batteries for the LYRIQ and is slated to open in late 2023.

The Spring Hill Welcome Center, located at 5326 Main Street, has information about the city, area attractions, local parks, restaurants, and businesses. If you’re hosting out-oftown guests, you’ll find several ideas for must-see attractions in town and around the region. The center is open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm and Saturdays 10 am - 2:00 pm. Or, visit experiencespringhill.com.

THE TOWN of THOMPSON’S STATION

Photo: Town of Thompson’s Station

Thompson’s Station boasts more than 300 acres of parks, leading the county in preserving open spaces. The town was settled in 1778 and by 1855 the first trains arrived, making it a shipping center for area farmers to transport sheep, hogs, and cattle. The town was incorporated in 1990.

Organized Sports

Youth and adult sports are organized through South Williamson Athletics, (swatn.org) in partnership with Williamson County Parks and Recreation. (wcparksandrec.com) The league offers team play for baseball, basketball, softball, and volleyball. Youth sports also are offered at local public and private schools.

Parks & Trails

The Sarah Benson Park has jogging trails, a playground, pavilions, and a stage for special events. Alexander Trail and Stephen’s Way connect Sarah Benson Park to Heritage Park and is a bike friendly trek. Heritage Park has baseball fields and wooded trails. Preservation Park is the town’s newest park with trails that offer magnificent views of pastureland. The 200-acre park was the Civil War site of the Battle of Thompson’s Station. Nutro Dog Park, located at 4559 Columbia Pike, was built by the town and Mars Petcare. Take water for you and your pet, as there is no water access. The town has recently received several grants to interconnect area park trails and to add paved trails connecting schools and subdivisions. For more information, go to: thompsons-station.com.

Photo: Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce

Rippavilla Plantation

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Area Public Libraries

Local libraries have endless free resources including books, movies, music, classes, book clubs, and educational programs for all ages. Several media formats can be downloaded on your smart device via the library’s app. Take proof of local residency to a library near you to sign up for a library card.

Williamson Co. Public Library

Main Branch

1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin 615-595-1243 wcpltn.org

Bethesda Public Library 4905 Bethesda Rd., Thompson’s Station 615-790-1887

Fairview Public Library 2240 Fairview Blvd., Fairview 615-224-6087

Leiper’s Fork Library 5333 Old Highway 96W, Franklin 615-794-7019

Nolensville Public Library

915 Oldham Dr., Nolensville 615-776-5490

College Grove Community Library 8607 Horton Hwy., College Grove 615-368-3222

John B. Holt Brentwood Library 8109 Concord Rd., Brentwood 615-371-0090

$50 library card fee for non-Brentwood residents brentwoodtn.gov/departments/library

Spring Hill Library

144 Kedron Pkwy., Spring Hill 931-486-2932

springhilllibrary.org Services available to Williamson or Maury County residents

Maury County Public Library

Main Branch 211 W. 8th Str., Columbia 931-375-6501 mcpltn.org

Mt. Pleasant Public Library

200 Hay Long Ave., Mt. Pleasant 931-375-6502

Welcome to Williamson County.

Welcome to membership.

You are now a resident of one of the most vibrant and energetic counties in Middle Tennessee. You are also a member of MTE, a not-for-profit electric cooperative that exists to better the lives of our members by delivering affordable, reliable, and safe electricity. We’re proud to be your trusted energy advisor and provider, and we look forward to serving you.

Get Involved & Volunteer!

A great way to get to know your new community and the people who live there is to volunteer. With hundreds of nonprofits in the Middle Tennessee region, getting involved and lending a hand is easy to do. Sharing your skills and talents by volunteering at a school, local church, library, at a community festival, or with the city’s parks and recreation department not only helps others, but also allows you to support causes you care about.

Civic groups also offer volunteer opportunities such as a local Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, or Chamber of Commerce. For example, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs organizes volunteer events throughout the year that support their community with chapters in both Spring Hill (FB @GRWC Spring Station Woman’s Club) and Brentwood/ Franklin. (brentwoodfranklinwomansserviceclub.com) Anyone is welcome to participate.

Giving financially to an organization you care about is important as well. Nonprofits such as the United Way of Greater Nashville or The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee provide a giving platform that supports multiple organizations, or gifts can be directed to a specific nonprofit.

Listed below are organizations that maintain a database of immediate volunteer needs as well as lists of nonprofits throughout the region. By sharing even a small amount of time, you can make a big difference in your community and for those who live there.

Hands On Nashville hon.org

United Way of Greater Nashville (includes Williamson Co.) unitedwaygreaternashville.org/volunteer-opportunities

United Way of Maury County unitedwayofmaurycounty.com/partner-agencies

Volunteer Match volunteermatch.org

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee cfmt.org givingmatters.com

James K. Polk Home

MAURY COUNTY

TN 38401

Maury County was formed in 1807 and Columbia is the county seat. The area is known for its towering antebellum homes including the ancestral home of James K. Polk, the 11th U.S. president. His home is located in Columbia and offers daily tours. Maury County is known as a leading agrarian com munity and today is best known for beef cattle production.

Parks, Trails, & Activities

The parks and recreation department manages several hundreds of acres of parks including Chickasaw Trace Park with nine miles of mountain bike trails, radio control flight field, radio control car track, and playgrounds.

Located in Columbia, Maury County Park is where the county fair is held in early September and the annual Mule Day festival in early April. The 242-acre park also has a one-

931-381-3690

Photo: Maury County Visitors Bureau

MauryCounty-TN.gov

Yanahli Park is the county’s largest and newest park total ing 474 acres with numerous ecosystems, diverse flora and fauna, along with historic settlements, rock walls, and burial sites. There is a 1.66 mile paved trail and restrooms. The park is bordered by the Duck River and is connected to the 12,000 acre Yanahli Wildlife Management Area which is also a hunting preserve. For more information about all countymanaged parks, activities, and educational programs, go to: maurycounty-tn.gov/570/Parks-Recreation.

Maury County Public Schools

More than 12,000 students are enrolled in Pre-K through 12th grade. There are 24 elementary, middle, and high schools, including three K-12 schools, a non-traditional high school, and an alternative school. The district’s mantra for its

COLUMBIA

700 N Garden Street

Columbia, TN 38401

The city of Columbia is located in Maury County and serves as the county seat. With its iconic downtown district and rich Southern history, Columbia has been voted as a “Top Ten Best Small Town” by both Southern Living and Country Living. The Duck River borders downtown and its four city blocks are listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its Federal, Victorian, and Mid 19th Century Revival architecture. Learn more at the Columbia Welcome Center, located at 713 N. Main Street, or go to visitcolumbiatn.com.

Historic Landmarks

Columbia was founded in 1807. The population grew rapidly with the success of the agricultural industry, bringing money into the city and resulting in the historic brick man sions and plantations still seen today. One of the city’s most notable architectural structures is the Maury County Court house, built over a century ago, located in the center of the downtown.

Downtown Columbia & Festivals

Columbia has a long-standing tradition of preserving and growing its downtown district as one of Tennessee’s first five Main Street communities. Dozens of shops, local restaurants, breweries, boutiques, and antique stores fill downtown storefronts.

“First Fridays” are where you can find the square bustling with extended evening hours at shops and restaurants plus lots of live music. For more information: visitcolumbiatn.com/events.

Downtown Columbia and Maury County Park are the central hubs for the multi-day Mule Day festival in April. The Mule Day tradition began in the 1840s as a livestock show and mule market and has blossomed into a week-long festival. Events include arts and crafts, live music, a parade, and muledriving contests. Go here for event info: muleday.com.

Parks & Recreation

Columbia has over 500 acres of parks and greenways. Located near downtown is Riverwalk Park, with paved walk ing trails, a basketball court, and splash pad. It is also home to the farmer’s market. The city’s newest greenway is the Hik ing and Mountain Bike Park, with 2.5 miles of trails at varying levels. If you enjoy a game of disc golf, Woodlands Park features an 18-hole disc golf course, plus playgrounds. Read more here: columbiatn.com/236/Parks-and-Greenways.

Organized Sports

Columbia also offers a variety of organized sports for kids and adults alike. The city hosts leagues for basketball, flag football, kickball, and pickleball: columbiatn.com/592/Ath letics. One of its largest facilities is Ridley Sports Complex, with fields for soccer, football, lacrosse, rugby, softball, baseball, and ultimate frisbee.

City Services

The city of Columbia provides weekly garbage pickup, curbside recycling every two weeks, and scheduled bulky items and brush collection. Other city information such as registering your alarm system, requesting a yard sale, or obtaining a burn permit can be found at columbiatn.com.

Photo:

visitcolumbiatn.com

Photo: Maury County Visitors Bureau, visitmaury.com

Photo: Visit Columbia, TN. visitcolumbiatn.com

MOUNT PLEASANT

Population: 4,899

100 Public Square • Mount Pleasant, TN 38474 931-379-7717 • MtPleasant-tn.gov

Mount Pleasant was once known as the phosphate capi tal of the world when brown phosphate rock was discovered in 1895 leading to a mining boom. Founded in 1824, Mount Pleasant is located in Maury County, south of Columbia. Today, downtown has several shops and restaurants. While there, explore three stories of artifacts at the Mount Pleasant History Museum and learn about the area’s past from the Civil War to the phosphate industry.

Parks & Recreation

Mount Pleasant has six parks with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. At Gardenia Clark Park there is a disc golf course and Gaga Ball pit. Rotary Park has a playground, picnic pavilion, and basketball courts, and Veterans Park has a walking trail and splash pad. The parks and recreation de partment hosts events and family fun nights throughout the year. For information go to: mtpleasant-tn.gov/park-events.

Organized Sports

• Mount Pleasant Youth Football and Cheer. Contact: facebook.com/mpyouthfootball

• Mount Pleasant TN Dixie Youth Baseball, ages 4 -12, boys/girls. Contact: facebook.com/mpdixieyouthbaseball

City Services

The City’s Community Services Department provides trash pickup for residents and businesses. To receive city informa tion and announcements text: MPCITY to 931-340-7700.

Photo: Maury County Visitors Bureau, visitmaury.com

Bigsby Grey Civil War Monument, downtown Mount Pleasant

Spaces in UnincorporatedBetween areas

Unincorporated communities in Middle Tennessee are often profiled as “a wide spot in the road” with winding roadways, rolling farmland, and old homesteads in rural areas. While that may be the case in some areas, several unincor porated communities have sizable residential areas and a bustling commerce. In both Williamson and Maury Counties you can find well-known communities with historic boundar ies that appear on the map, but are legally located outside of a city’s bounds. These areas are generally run by the county government rather than having their own mayoral office. Still, they have distinct historical roots that give each community its own unique identity.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Bethesda is in rural southeastern Williamson County near Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill. The area is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, although it has its own elementary school, public library, and recreation center.

Arrington is located east of Franklin, off I-840. Williamson County has recently implemented plans to preserve the historic lands of this serene, but increasingly popular community. Notable stops include Arrington Vineyards and Hideaway Golf Course.

College Grove is located south of Nolensville, situated near Murfreesboro and Franklin. The area has growing residential population alongside family farms such as Hatcher Family Dairy and 96-acre Delvin Farms. The latter supplies signature vegetables to farmer’s markets, restaurants, and grocery stores around Middle Tennessee.

Leiper’s Fork is an iconic community village southwest of Franklin on Hwy. 46. With a population of about 650, the area is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, restaurants, live music, and picturesque countryside.

MAURY COUNTY

Culleoka is a small town located southeast of Columbia which is home to over 5,000 residents. Its name derives from the Choctaw Indian words “Culle” (good or sweet) and “Oka” (wa ter) - and locals still tenderly refer to the area as “Sweetwater.”

Hampshire is home to the 6.9-acre community park of the same name. Families can enjoy a leisurely day at the park pavilion, baseball field, basketball court, playground, and running/walking track. The park is a shared facility with the ad joining Hampshire Unit School of Applied Science and Natural Resources.

Williamsport Lakes

Santa Fe people. The area consists largely of family farms and the Santa Fe Unit School with roughly 600 students in K-12 .

Williamsport is situated just west of Santa Fe off Hwy. 50 and has 1,739 residents. The area is best known for its four scenic fishing lakes (totaling 164 acres) and surrounding rural hunt ing areas. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) manages this year-round fishing and hunting hub.

Photo: Brian Willocks. IG: Instagram.com/sith_adventures

Photo: VisitFranklin.com

Leiper’s Fork

Photo: TrentonLeePhotography.com

Keeping Pets Healthy In Their New Home...rules, regs, and adoption

Providing preventative healthcare treatments for your pet in Middle Tennessee may look a little different than in other parts of the United States. Because this region has a generally hot and humid climate and minimal longterm freezing in the winter, it is necessary to treat your pet year-round for fleas and ticks plus heartworm and internal parasites. According to Dr. Steve Doerr, veterinarian at Crossroads Pet Professionals in Nolensville, identifying a veterinarian soon after you move is crucial.

“This area breeds bugs. Getting your dog or cat on a flea, tick, and heartworm treatment is important especially if you have an indoor pet as they can carry these pests into your home after a walk in the park or from the backyard,” ex plained Dr. Doerr.

In the heat of the summer, pet owners are reminded to keep pets hydrated. When walking your dog during hot summer months, always check the pavement with the back of your hand before allowing your pet’s paws on it. If it burns your skin, it will blister its paws. Avoid walks in the heat of the day or look for grassy spaces or dirt paths.

State Rules & Regulations

Pet owners new to the area are required by the state of Tennessee to have all dogs and cats vaccinated for rabies, and the animal must wear the rabies tags at all times. State law also requires dog owners to keep their dog on their property or on a leash under the control of a person if off the owner’s property.

Pet Adoption

If you are considering adding a furry friend to your fam ily, the Williamson County Animal Center located at 1006 Grisby Hayes Court in Franklin, or the Maury County Animal Services located at 233 Mapleash Avenue in Columbia, are great places to start your search. Adoption fees are $25-$85 which includes a full medical check, a microchip, and spay or neuter. For more information go to: adoptwcac.org or call 615-790-5590 (Williamson Co) or maurycounty-tn.gov/196/animal-services or call 931-375-1402 (Maury Co).

Area Dog Parks

For a complete list of area dog parks that both humans and their dogs can enjoy, go to: thenewresidentsguide.com/play-time-with-your-pup.

FINDING THE RIGHT DOCTOR

Relocating to a new home is a busy and stress ful time. While there are many tasks to do as you get settled, identifying a health care provider is essential.

Waiting until you’re sick may force you to turn over serious treatment decisions to a doctor you don’t know and doesn’t know you.

As you look for a doctor, keep these attributes in mind:

Trust. You must trust your doctor’s advice about your healthcare.

Communication. Having a doctor you understand and who understands your concerns is vital.

Availability. Your new healthcare provider should be accessible, with his/her office near your new home or your work.

In-Network. Is the physician you’re considering “innetwork” for your health insurance plan?

Other considerations include:

• Is the doctor practicing alone or in a group?

• Can he/she admit patients to the hospital you’d prefer?

• Does the doctor accept your health insurance?

• Does the doctor’s office make telehealth appointments?

After deciding on your first choice, inform the staff that this is your first visit. Take with you a list of any medicines you are taking and information about fam ily medical history as well as your own. Following the visit, if you feel compatible with the doctor, have your medical records forwarded to his/her office. If this is not the medical provider for you, make an appoint ment with your second choice. When you are sick, you are more likely to contact and follow the advice of a doctor with whom you are familiar and have developed a rapport.

Immunization requirements for children

Families new to Tennessee are required to have your child’s immunization records transferred to a Tennessee Certificate for daycare, pre-school, head start, or public schools. Parents may bring your child’s current immuniza tion records to the health department or submit them online. You will be contacted when the certificate is ready to be picked up. The Tennessee Department of Health im munization requirements can be found online: TN.gov/health/cedep/immunization-program/.

Cool in School: Getting Kids Connected to a New School

Middle Tennessee boasts amazing opportunities for education - between the world-class Williamson and Maury County Public School Systems, the Franklin Special School District, and two dozen private options, your child has many avenues to exceptional learning. Just as you are getting acquainted with your new community, your child will also go through a transitional period as they adjust to a new school.

Here are some ways to help them feel more comfortable and connected:

• With your child, walk the grounds and buildings before the first day of school to learn where everything is located. Ensure your child knows how to get around campus as well as where bus stops and pick-up/drop-off locations are.

• Meet the principal along with the office staff and school nurse. Ask if they have a “buddy program” where another student can show your child around the building.

• If your child needs additional support, talk to their teachers to learn more about support programs and available accommodations.

• Get a copy of school guidelines - different schools will have different rules regarding dress codes, locker use, PE class, etc.

• Encourage your child to look into extracurricular activities to give them the opportunity to meet new friends and engage in activities they enjoy.

• Learn as much as you can about your child’s new school such as school colors, mascot, culture, etc. Most kids prioritize “fitting in”, so knowing what that means to your child can help them assimilate more easily.

• Take time to ask your child about their day, their new school, teachers, and friends. Listen intently - allowing them to share their experiences will help them process all of their new emotions as well as deepen your bond with them!

• Enroll in the online platform of your school/district. Links to the schools’ websites are included below.

Williamson County Schools: wcs.edu

Maury County Schools: mauryk12.org

Franklin Special School District: FSSD.org

Photo WCS District

Free Higher Ed Opportunities

Tennessee Promise

The state of Tennessee offers its college-bound high school graduates an extra financial boost through the Tennessee Promise and HOPE Scholarship programs.

Tennessee Promise provides state high school or home school graduates free tuition to any in-state community or technical college. The program requires students to work with a mentor. All students are eligible regardless of socioeconomic status. This is a last-dollar scholarship that may cover the cost of tuition and mandatory fees not cov ered by the federal Pell grant, the HOPE Scholarship, or the Tennessee Student Assistance Award. Students can use this funding to attend any of the state’s 13 community colleges or 27 colleges of applied technology as well as at state colleges offering an associates degree. However, the scholarship will be capped at the average cost of tuition and fees at a state community college. For more information: tnpromise.gov.

HOPE Scholarship

The HOPE Scholarship is funded through the state lottery. Tennessee high school graduates attending an in-state four-year public or private university are able to receive up to $2,250 per semester as a full-time student for

the first two years and up to $2,850 per full-time enrollment semester as a junior and senior. If a student choses a twoyear school, they are eligible for up to $1,600 per semester as a full-time student. Award amounts are also available for summer enrollment. This scholarship program requires applicants to complete the FASFA to apply, www.fafsa.gov. For more information, go to: tn.gov/collegepays/money-for-college/tn-education-lotteryprograms/tennessee-hope-scholarship.see-hope-scholarship.

FARMER’S MARKETS OFFER LOCAL PRODUCE & MORE

Middle Tennessee residents can choose from an abundant selection of farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, baked goods, and preserves at area farmer’s markets. With over 100 farmer’s markets state-wide, residents can enjoy the healthy goodness of farm-to-table fare. You can also venture out to an orchard or farm and “pick-it” yourself. Pick Your Own farms are listed on picktnproducts.org. Area farmer’s markets are typically open May to October, while a few are open year-round. Check hours before going at picktnproducts.org or on the markets’ social media or websites. Also note, most markets do not allow dogs.

Fairview Farmer’s Market 2714 Fairview Blvd., Fairview, Sat. 9 am - 12 pm

Hampshire Farmer’s Market 4063 Hampshire Pk., Hampshire, Tues. 3 pm - 7 pm

Hidden Gem Farmer’s Market 863 Old Military Rd., Spring Hill, Sat. 11 am - 2 pm

Nolensville Farmer’s Market

Summer market, Historic School, 7248 Nolensville Rd., Nolensville, Sat. 8 am - 12 pm. Winter market, 7260 Nolensville Rd., Sat. 10 am - 1 pm

Mt. Pleasant Farmer’s Market

Downtown Mt. Pleasant, 1 Public Square, Third Thursday, 5 pm - 8 pm, July to Oct.

Thompson’s Station Farmer’s Market Homestead Manor, 4683 Columbia Pk., Thompson’s Station, Tues. 4 pm -7 pm. May - Oct. Holiday Market: Dec. 3, 10 am - 3 pm

Westhaven Farmer’s Market Magli Green Park, 191 Front St., Franklin, Wed. 4 pm - 7 pm, May - Oct. Holiday Pop-Up, Every Wed. Nov. 20 - Dec. 21, 4 pm - 7 pm

Culleoka Farmer’s Market

2410 Valley Creek Rd., Culleoka, Third Saturday, 9 am - 12 pm, April - Nov.

East Franklin Farmer’s Market

Liberty Park, 2080 Turning Wheel Lane, Franklin, Sat. 10 am - 2 pm through Dec.

Franklin Farmer’s Market

The Factory at Franklin, 230 Franklin Rd., Franklin, Sat. 8 am - 1 pm, May – Oct. and 9 am – 12 pm, Nov. - April

Five Points Franklin Market 100 5th Ave. N., Franklin, Tues. 4 pm - 7 pm, May - Oct.

Christmas Market: Every Tues. 4 pm - 7 pm, Nov. 29 - Dec. 20

Plant Your Own Garden

Grow your own herbs, fruits, and vegetables with the help of the Williamson County or the Maury County Extension office. The staff of horticulturists offer assistance along with research-based information and publications about gardens, landscapes, and lawn care. Williamson County Extension offices are located at the Williamson County AgExpo Park Arena, 215 Long Lane, #200, Franklin. williamson.tennessee. edu., and in Maury County, 10 Public Sq., 2nd floor, Columbia. maury.tennessee.edu.

Photo: Portraits by Paige, portraitsbypaige.com

Photo: Portraits by Paige, portraitsbypaige.com

A DRIVE ON NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY

Natchez Trace Parkway is a national scenic trail that travels 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee and is managed by the National Park Service. This scenic drive follows the route once traveled by tradesmen and Native Americans. The Trace passes through Williamson County in Franklin (Birdsong Hollow and Hwy. 96) where the double arched bridge is an iconic part of this roadway. Natchez Trace State Park is located about 90 miles southwest of the arched

bridge off I-40. The park offers 23 miles of hiking trails from an easy 1-mile nature walk to a 14-mile trail. Park amenities include a museum, picnic facilities, camping, horseback riding, moun tain bike trails, cabins, a lodge, restaurant, and boating on Pin Oak Lake. Find out how you can explore wildlife, nature, hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and camping throughout the Trace’s 52,000 acres at nps.gov/natcheztrace.

Photo: TrentonLeePhotography.com

HUNTING & FISHING IN TENNESSEE

The Volunteer State offers numerous locations to get outdoors and enjoy fishing in one of the many public access lakes and rivers, or hunting in one of the public Wildlife Man agement Areas (WMA) or refuges. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) manages nearly 100 WMA and refuges varying from 53 to 625,000 acres, with several areas available for public hunting and trapping. For more informa tion: tnwildlife.org.

Fishing

Fishing is a year-round sport in Tennessee with 29 major reservoirs and 19,000 miles of streams. Nearby lakes in the Middle Tennessee region include Percy Priest Lake, Tim’s Ford Reservoir, Dale Hollow Lake, and Old Hickory Lake. Tennessee lakes have around 320 species of fish, with bass, crappie, sunfish, and catfish as some of the most common fish caught. Go to tn.gov/twra/fishing for a comprehensive list of lakes, rivers and streams, public access boat ramps, and bank fishing locations.

Hunting

Thousands of acres of public hunting lands are available for Tennessee’s hunters. Before you go on your first hunt, a basic hunter’s education course is required for anyone, aged 10 and older, born on or after January 1, 1969. Common game includes squirrel, turkey, waterfowl, deer, rabbit, black bear, and raccoon. Go to TWRA website, tn.gov/twra/hunting, for dates and regulations on specified hunting seasons and quotas.

Getting Your License

You may secure hunting and fishing licenses with a valid Tennessee Driver’s License or State of Tennessee issued photo identification by going to gooutdoorstennessee.com or at a TWRA office or vendor. Your residency will be verified through the Tennessee Department of Safety’s online system. Ages 13-15 need to have a junior hunt/fish license. Ages 16-64 require an adult license. Children aged 13 and under can fish without a license. Go to gooutdoorstennessee.com, Licensing and select Enroll Now to start the online applica tion process. For more information call 615-781-6500 or email ask.twra@tn.gov.

EXPLORE THE DUCK

The 290 mile Duck River winds through Maury County and is touted as the most biologically diverse river in North America with 151 species of fish, 60 freshwater mussel species, and 22 species of aquatic snails. The deep river, which locals refer to as “The Duck”, has ample flow for kayaking and is an excellent wa terway for fishing. For more information about the Duck River and area attractions, go to visitcolumbiatn.com or visitmaury.com.

Dale Hollow Lake

Photo: TN Tourism

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Tennessee State Parks • TNStateParks.com • 615-532-0001

The state’s department of parks manages 56 state parks throughout Tennessee, each brimming with natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural resources. Tennessee State

Parks do not charge an entrance fee; however, fees may be charged for various park activities and rentals. Here are a few nearby parks you may want to explore.

Henry Horton State Park is home to the Buford Ellington Championship Golf Course, touted as one of the finest courses in the state. This challenging course measures 5,625 yards from the Forward tees and 7,060 yards from the Championship tees. The park has camping (RV and backcountry), a 68-room inn, and rental cabins. Other amenities include an Olympic sized swimming pool, a trap and skeet range, and an 18-hole disc golf course, plus hiking, biking, and fishing in the Duck River. Henry Horton is located southwest of Williamson County in Chapel Hill.

Radnor Lake State Park is located four miles north of Brentwood. This 1,368-acre park is a favorite for hiking and wildlife viewing. At the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center, visitors can observe non-releasable birds of prey and attend educational programming.

Long Hunter State Park has a two-mile paved trail where visitors can walk around Couchville Lake, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. Couchville is a 110-acre tranquil lake and is great for fishing and all types of paddle boating. Park amenities include picnic tables and pavilions, seasonal kayak, jon boat, and canoe rentals, primitive camping, and mountain biking at the Bryant Grove Recreation Area. Long Hunter State Park borders J. Percy Priest Lake, a 14,000acre reservoir and one of the area’s favorite recreational boating and fishing lakes.

Montgomery Bell State Park is located off I-40 in Dickson, with three lakes nestled into the 3,850-acre park with a swim beach and seasonal paddle boating rentals. The newly renovated Montgomery Bell Lodge overlooks Lake Acorn and has 117 guest rooms and a full-service restaurant and bar plus 6,000 square feet of event space. There are also eight modern rental cabins near Lake Acorn. The park’s campground has 94 campsites with several sites offering electric hookup and sewer. Other park amenities include an 18-hole golf course, hiking and mountain biking trails, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and a gift shop.

Photo: TN Tourism

Photo: Holly Eaves

Photo: TN Tourism

Photo: Aerial Innovation Southeast

GET IN TOUCH STATE CONTACTS

STATE OF TENNESSEE - TN.gov

For a listing of all state agencies go to: tn.gov/directory

Department of Health tn.gov/health 615-741-3011

Immunizations, family health and wellness, disease prevention, medical licensing, health related abuse, and health records

Department of Human Services tn.gov/humanservices 615-313-4700

Adult protective services, child support, food stamps (SNAP), disability services, adult day care, and childcare services

State Board of Education tn.gov/sbe 615-741-2966

Oversees the state public and charter schools K-12

Tennessee Homeschool Resources 615-815-8750 tn.gov/education/school-options/home-schooling-in-tn Forms and requirements to homeschool K-12 grades

Tennessee Board of Regents – Higher Ed. tbr.edu 615-366-4400

Oversees 40 community and technical colleges Department of Commerce and Insurance tn.gov/commerce 615-741-2241

Issues and renews all professional licenses and protects consumers in the insurance marketplace Commission on Aging and Disability tn.gov/aging 615-741-2056 or 1-866-836-6678

Connects people to health and human services programs based on disability and aging needs and provides assis tance for intellectual and developmental disabilities and aging services and diseases

Environment and Conservation tn.gov/environment 888-891-8332

Oversees State Parks, Natural Areas, archaeology, greenways, and all environmental related permitting

TennCare tn.gov/tenncare 1-800-342-3145

State managed Medicaid agency for low income Tennesseans of all ages to access healthcare

Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) tn.gov/tdot 615-741-2848

Manages all state related transportation, state road repair, signage, and construction

Tennessee State Museum

1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville tn.gov/museum 615-741-2692

TN history exhibits from 13,000 BC, Native American Indians, Civil War, WWI, and WWII to present day. Free

Tennessee State Parks tnstateparks.com 615-532-0001

Manages 56 state parks

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency tn.gov/twra 615-781-6500

Hunting and fishing licenses, boating education and regulations, manages wildlife management areas

Tourist Development tn.gov/tourism 615-741-2159

Request a TN Vacation Guide

Veterans Services tn.gov/veteran 615-741-2345

Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255

Assistance with employment, education, business start-up, state, and federal benefits

Employment listings: tn.gov/employment jobs4tn.gov

Scan with your smartphone and view The New Residents’ Guide magazine online.

GET IN TOUCH CITY, TOWN, AND COUNTY CONTACTS

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

615-790-5700 williamsoncounty-tn.gov

Sheriff’s Dept. (non-emergency) 615-790-5560

Williamson Co. Rescue Squad (volunteer fire and rescue) 615-790-5821

Parks and Recreation 615-790-5719

County Health Dept. 615-794-1542 Fairview Clinic 615-799-2389 County Clerk 615-790-5712

Marriage License, Public Records, Motor Vehicle Tag, Business Licenses

Election Commission 615-790-5711

Animal Center/Adopt 615-790-5590

Register for Emergency Alerts and Community Info: WilliamsonCounty-tn.gov/list.aspx

Franklin 615-791-3217 franklintn.gov

Police (non-emergency) 615-794-2513

Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 615-791-3411

Parks Dept. 615-794-2103

Garbage Pickup and Recycling 615-794-1516

Brentwood 615-371-0060 brentwoodtn.gov

Police Dept. (non-emergency) 615-371-0160

Fire and Rescue (non-emergency) 615-371-0170

Parks and Recreation 615-371-0080 Nolensville 615-776-3633 nolensvilletn.gov

Public Works (road maintenance) 615-776-6682 Police Dept. (non-emergency) 615-776-3640 Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 615-776-5050

Fairview 615-799-2484 fairview-tn.org

Police Dept. (non-emergency) 615-799-2431

Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 615-799-3473

Parks Dept. 615-799-5544

Spring Hill

(Located in both Williamson and Maury Counties) 931-486-2252 springhilltn.org

Police Dept. (non-emergency) 931-486-2632

Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 931-486-3270

Parks and Recreation 931-487-0027

Garbage Pickup and Recycling 931-270-0423

Thompson’s Station 615-794-4333 thompsons-station.com

Police: Williamson Co. Sherriff’s Office 615-790-5560

Fire: Williamson Co. Rescue Squad 615-790-5821

MAURY COUNTY

931-381-3690 maurycounty-tn.gov

Sheriff’s Dept. (non-emergency) 931-380-5733

Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 931-381-3366

Parks and Recreation 931-375-6101

County Health Dept. 931-388-5757

County Clerk 931-375-5200

Marriage License, Public Records, Motor Vehicle Tag, and Business Licenses Election Commission 931-375-6001

Animal Center/Adopt 931-375-1401

Register for Emergency Alerts: maurycounty.onthealert.com

Columbia

931-560-1500 columbiatn.com

Police (non-emergency) 931-388-2727

Fire Dept. (non-emergency) 931-560-1700

Parks and Recreation 931-388-8119

Garbage Pickup and Recycling 931-388-8650

Mount Pleasant

931-379-7717 mtpleasant-tn.gov

Police (non-emergency) 931-379-3201

Fire Dept (non-emergency) 931-379-3939

Parks and Recreation 931-379-7717