"Sumner County Buzz: Taste of Hendersonville, Inclusive Playgrounds, Alpaca Farm Days, and More!"

"Sumner County Schools Embrace Inclusivity with New Playgrounds!"

Sumner County Schools are launching a major playground renovation initiative, focusing on inclusivity for all students.

Driven by parent advocacy, the district secured over $1 million in new funding aimed at upgrading elementary playgrounds beyond minimum accessibility standards.

Parents like Brittany Broadaway and others raised urgent concerns about outdated and inaccessible equipment, stressing a need for spaces where every child—regardless of ability—can safely play together.

As part of the plan, a series of community workshops will invite feedback on features such as ramps and sensory elements.

The district serves more than 31,000 students in communities including Gallatin, Hendersonville, and Portland, making these changes widely impactful.

Local parents remain hopeful but insistent on real progress, eager to transform playgrounds into welcoming, inspiring spaces for generations to come.

Portland City Council has unanimously advanced the Preserving Portland comprehensive plan, an ambitious new blueprint to guide future local growth and development.

This first-of-its-kind plan lays out a unified vision for city agencies, residents, and businesses, reflecting insights gathered through extensive community meetings.

Backed by projections from the Greater Nashville Regional Council, the plan anticipates a population rise to about 17,400 by 2045.

Local leaders, including Mayor Mike Callis, praised the collaborative approach, while Vice Mayor Megann Thompson sought further details on the plan’s adaptation as Portland continues to change.

The council also approved major development projects, including the 43-acre Woods Road PUD, new townhomes along Highway 52, and rezoning to support growth.

Infrastructure investments, such as a $498,707 contract for sewer repairs and upgrades, illustrate the city’s ongoing focus on essential services and compliance.

Long Hollow Suri Alpacas welcomes families and animal lovers to its 19th Annual National Alpaca Farm Days on September 27-28, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 698 Wallace Road in Gallatin, Tennessee.

Guests can get up close with alpacas, explore the farm, and discover the soft fleece that makes these animals so special.

The on-site store offers clothing, yarn, and gifts crafted from luxurious alpaca fiber, perfect for anyone seeking unique local products.

Admission is free, making this a fun and affordable day out for everyone—bring a picnic and snap selfies with the alpacas.

Meanwhile, Sumner County hosts the 10th Annual Mr. Sumner County Pageant on September 27 at the Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club, supporting local charities.

Music fans can also experience the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival in nearby Franklin, featuring top artists and local eats.

September’s last weekend promises unforgettable experiences across the region.

Goodlettsville is enhancing local safety by installing two new tornado sirens at Moss-Wright Park and North Creek Park.

This upgrade, set to begin next week, aims to reach more residents enjoying outdoor spaces where traditional alerts might go unheard.

Recent severe storms, including the devastating December 2023 tornado that hit Middle Tennessee, highlighted gaps in the area’s emergency alert system.

Many existing sirens across the region failed during that crisis, prompting city officials to act swiftly.

Both parks attract families, hikers, and athletes, making these new sirens crucial for timely weather warnings where people gather most.

With outdoor warning systems already expanding since 2002, this move builds on prior investments and stands as a proactive response to the region’s severe weather challenges.

For Sumner County, neighboring cities, and the broader Middle Tennessee area, these improvements underscore a growing commitment to public preparedness and safety.

Local residents can expect testing and updates soon, ensuring confidence before the next storm season hits.

Crews will close Walton Ferry Road in Sumner County from Cages Road to Campus Drive for utility work between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily, September 22 through 26.

Drivers should use Sanders Ferry Road and Imperial Boulevard as a detour during these times.

This necessary closure supports progress on TDOT’s widening and improvement project for Walton Ferry Road and Old Shackle Island Road, covering the stretch from Nokes Drive to Volunteer Drive.

The project also includes intersection upgrades at State Route 6 (US 31/Main Street) and Walton Ferry Road.

All work depends on weather conditions.

Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and follow safety laws in work zones.

Violating Tennessee’s Move Over Law can lead to fines and jail time.

Hendersonville residents are rallying for safer streets along bustling Glenbrook Way, following a surge in community concerns over speeding vehicles.

City hall has become a forum for frustrated neighbors, many alarmed by close calls involving children and speeding drivers in residential zones.

The city is now considering the installation of new speed limit signs—a move some say is overdue amid reports of cars exceeding posted limits, endangering walkers and bikers.

While some officials worry about costs or question effectiveness, many point to successes in other Tennessee towns and advocate for stronger enforcement and additional safety measures.

The debate has resonated across Sumner County, with communities from Gallatin to Goodlettsville airing similar grievances and urging traffic calming strategies.

As Hendersonville prepares for a city council vote, locals hope the changes will mark a turning point, making everyday travel safer for all.

Here's the weather forecast for Sumner County, TN, from September 23 to September 29, 2025:

Weather Forecast for Sumner County, TN

September 23, 2025 (Tuesday)

Temperature: High of 80.6°F | Low of 69.8°F
Sunrise: 6:35 AM
Sunset: 6:41 PM

September 24, 2025 (Wednesday)

Temperature: High of 78.8°F | Low of 68°F
Sunrise: 6:35 AM
Sunset: 6:39 PM

September 25, 2025 (Thursday)

Temperature: High of 77°F | Low of 66.2°F
Sunrise: 6:36 AM
Sunset: 6:38 PM

September 26, 2025 (Friday)

Temperature: High of 75.2°F | Low of 64.4°F
Sunrise: 6:37 AM
Sunset: 6:36 PM

September 27, 2025 (Saturday)

Temperature: High of 77°F | Low of 62.6°F
Sunrise: 6:38 AM
Sunset: 6:35 PM

September 28, 2025 (Sunday)

Temperature: High of 78.8°F | Low of 60.8°F
Sunrise: 6:39 AM
Sunset: 6:33 PM

September 29, 2025 (Monday)

Temperature: High of 80.6°F | Low of 59°F
Sunrise: 6:39 AM
Sunset: 6:32 PM

Historical Events in Sumner County, Tennessee: September 16 - September 22

Historical Commemorations: September 23-29 in Sumner County, Tennessee

September 27, 1829: Foundation of White House Community

Around this late September period in 1829, Richard Stone Wilks completed construction of the original White House Inn that would give the future city its name. Wilks had purchased the land for $ 200 in November 1828, spanning both Sumner and Robertson counties along what was originally a buffalo and Native American trail between Louisville, Kentucky, and Nashville, Tennessee.

The distinctive white-painted two-story house became a crucial stagecoach stop along the Louisville & Nashville Turnpike, unusual for its time when most buildings remained unpainted raw wood.

This establishment served not only the immediate area but also travelers throughout the region, with President Andrew Jackson reportedly staying there during his travels between his home and Washington, D.C.

The inn's strategic location connected the smaller communities of the region, including nearby settlements that would later become Millersville, Goodlettsville, and other Sumner County towns. The white-painted building became such a recognizable landmark that stagecoach drivers and passengers simply referred to it as "The White House," establishing a name that would endure long after the original structure was demolished in 1951.

The September timeframe marked the end of the travel season before winter weather made the turnpike more difficult to navigate, making it a particularly busy period for the inn and surrounding communities.

September 1797: Early Settlement Patterns

Late September 1797 marked the earliest documented reference to what would become Shackle Island, when surveyor William Lytle recorded a North Carolina land grant to William Tyrrell.

The surveyor's description noted "Beginning at a sweet gum, honey locust, and elm standing on an island... on the West side below the Great Road," referring to Long Hollow Pike and the island created by Drake's Creek.

This early survey work during the late September period established property boundaries that would influence settlement patterns throughout what would become Sumner County. The "island" created by Drake's Creek's split channels became a recognizable geographic feature that connected various communities including the future sites of Hendersonville, Gallatin, and other settlements along the creek system.

The timing of such surveys often occurred in late September when travel conditions remained favorable but before winter weather complicated boundary marking activities. These early land grants established the foundation for communities that would later include Castalian Springs, Cottontown, and the various unincorporated areas like Bethpage, Bransford, and New Deal.

September Incorporation Period: Modern Municipal Development

The late September period has significance in the modern development of several Sumner County communities, particularly during the rapid suburban growth of the late 20th century. White House was incorporated in April 1971, with the timing chosen to allow new municipal governments to establish budgets and services before the following fiscal year.

Similarly, Millersville's incorporation process in 1981 involved planning activities that often occurred during late September as communities prepared for budget cycles and municipal elections.

The city's growth from 1,214 residents at incorporation to over 6,000 by 2006 reflected the broader suburban expansion affecting communities throughout Sumner County, including Goodlettsville, which had chosen to remain autonomous when Nashville merged with Davidson County in 1963.

The September timeframe historically represented preparation periods for these growing communities as they established municipal services, police and fire departments, and infrastructure improvements.

Cities like Gallatin, as the county seat, and Hendersonville, as the most populous city, provided models for smaller communities like Westmoreland, Portland, and Mitchellville as they developed their own municipal identities.

Autumn Apple-Cherry Crisp

Celebrate Fall Flavors with a Heartwarming Dessert that Combines Sweet Apples and Tart Cherries!

Hey everyone in the Sumner County community! As the leaves start turning those gorgeous shades of orange and red, and there's that crisp chill in the air, I always get excited about diving into some seasonal cooking.

Autumn is my favorite time for experimenting in the kitchen. There's something so comforting about warm, hearty dishes that make the house smell amazing.

I did a bit of digging online to find a recipe that's not just tasty but also a little fun and unexpected. After browsing through sites like BBC Good Food and Delicious Magazine, I landed on this gem: Creamy Pumpkin Soup with a Twist.

It's got all the classic fall flavors, but with a playful addition of toasted marshmallows on top for that s'mores-like vibe. Who wouldn't love that? It's perfect for a family dinner or even a casual potluck with neighbors.

I think what makes this recipe stand out is how it balances the savory pumpkin with a hint of sweetness, kind of like how autumn itself mixes cozy vibes with a touch of whimsy.

Plus, it's pretty straightforward to make, even if you're not a pro in the kitchen. I remember trying something similar last year, and it was a hit at our block party; kids especially loved the marshmallow part. Anyway, let's get into the details.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

You'll need some basic autumn staples here, nothing too fancy. This is adapted from a few sources, including BBC Good Food's autumn collection, to keep it simple and fun.

1 medium pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs), peeled and cubed (or use butternut squash if pumpkin's hard to find)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
A handful of mini marshmallows for topping
Optional: A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or crumbled bacon for extra crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them until they're soft and fragrant (maybe 5 minutes or so). I always add a pinch of salt here to help things along.

Next, add the cubed pumpkin and give it a good stir. Pour in the vegetable broth, crank up the heat to bring it to a boil, then simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the pumpkin is tender. You know it's ready when you can easily mash it with a fork.

Now, blend everything up: I use an immersion blender right in the pot to avoid a mess, but a regular blender works too. Stir in the cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning; sometimes I add a dash more nutmeg if I'm feeling extra autumnal.

Here's the fun part: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a few mini marshmallows, and pop them under the broiler for a minute or two until they're toasty and golden. Watch them closely, as they can burn fast! If you want to get creative, add those pumpkin seeds or bacon bits for texture.

It takes about 45 minutes total, and it's surprisingly filling. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you've got a meal that screams fall.

Gallatin Comic Con 2025: A Star-Studded Weekend Awaits in Sumner County

The Gallatin Comic Con 2025 lands at the Gallatin Civic Center on November 8–9, 2025, promising a standout weekend for Sumner County and comic fans across Tennessee.

Beloved TV icon Vicki Lawrence joins the guest list, alongside CHiPs stars Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox, making it a must for classic television fans.

Greg Land, known for his dynamic work on X-Men and Fantastic Four, will be meeting comic book enthusiasts, while Scooby-Doo voice actor Scott Innes adds extra excitement.

Attendees can expect celebrity panels, autograph signings, and vibrant cosplay contests—plus a diverse artist alley and vendor area packed with collectibles.

This local convention is the perfect gathering for collectors, casual fans, and families seeking memorable moments and creative inspiration in Sumner County, TN.

Get ready for the return of the Main Street Festival in downtown Gallatin on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This beloved event draws more than 30,000 visitors to Sumner County every fall, celebrating local culture and community.

Festival-goers can explore over 230 vendors offering unique arts, crafts, and hometown specialties.

Live music across two stages, a children’s area, and food trucks serving tasty treats promise fun for all ages.

Admission is free, making it an inviting outing for families and friends.

Street closures around Main Street and Public Square will provide a safe, open environment for everyone to enjoy.

Exciting this year is the debut of a Kids’ Entrepreneurial Area, spotlighting young innovators and their creative businesses.

Join the celebration and experience Gallatin’s vibrant spirit at one of the year’s most anticipated events!

The Sumner County Museum will host its first Traveling Trunk Homeschool Day on Thursday, September 25, at 10:00 AM, inviting local families to step into history at The Station on West Main Street in Gallatin.

This immersive program brings Sumner County’s vibrant past to life through hands-on exploration of unique artifacts and storytelling designed especially for homeschoolers.

Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.

Admission is free for children aged 3 and under, while tickets are needed for everyone age 4 and up.

Families eager to join should contact the Sumner County Museum to reserve a spot or learn more about the Traveling Trunk and other educational events.

This is a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage while enjoying a fun, interactive day together.

The 6th Annual Hendersonville Pig Fest returns to Veterans Park from October 23–25, 2025, with DUDE WIPES as proud presenting sponsor.

Organized by HolidayFest and the Hendersonville Parks and Recreation Department, Pig Fest supports beloved charities like Mary’s Magical Place, Grace Place, and Christmas4Kids.

The festival kicks off Thursday with a savory Steak Dinner, Silent Auction, trivia, and the creative Parking Palette. Tickets are $65 per person, benefiting local charities.

Wrestling fans can catch Jeff Jarrett at the thrilling All-Star Super Slam.

Friday’s Hometown Jam features the legendary Oak Ridge Boys, Exile, Eric Blankenship, and DJ Cliffy D, with general admission just $20 and free entry for kids under 12.

Saturday shines with the Backyard BBQ Competition, pig races, food trucks, Kidz Zone, and televised college football—all free to the public.

This fun-filled weekend invites competitors, vendors, and sponsors to join in supporting Hendersonville’s vibrant spirit.

If you would like your business featured in this section, please contact me at here.

Dr. Paul Graden
Founder & Editor, Sumner County Pulse

Share the Love for Sumner County!

Hey Sumner County friends!

The Sumner County Pulse is your go-to source for everything happening in our community! 🎉 Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected.

But we need your help! To make the Pulse truly vibrant, we invite you to ask your friends to subscribe. Here’s why:

Discover Local Gems: Sharing the Pulse helps your friends uncover the best local spots, events, and stories that make Sumner County special.
Stay in the Loop: With more subscribers, we can cover even more topics that matter to our community. Your friends will appreciate being in the know!
Build Connections: The Pulse is about community. When your friends subscribe, they join a network of locals who care about our home.

How to Share

It’s easy! Forward this newsletter or send a quick message inviting your friends to subscribe. Let’s spread the word and keep the Pulse of Sumner County strong!

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we can create a vibrant community where everyone feels connected!

Warm regards,