Oak Ridge: The Secret City of Innovation and Natural Beauty

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prah-bluhm]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haw y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak Ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [can ah see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to pay, please
  [I'd like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git outta here!
  [Git outta here!]
• Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [Call the Cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [How much duhz it cost?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya give me a deal?
  [Can ya give me a deal?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
• MorningMorning
  [Morning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvening
  [Evening]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [Can ya show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Oak Ridge, Tennessee, was born out of a necessity during World War II. In 1942, the U.S. government selected this secluded area to be a key site for the top-secret Manhattan Project, aimed at developing the atomic bomb. The location was chosen for its remote setting, ample water supply from the Clinch River, and existing infrastructure. Within months, the town transformed from farmland into a bustling city of 75,000 people, all working under a veil of secrecy.

During the Manhattan Project, Oak Ridge was known as the 'Secret City.' It was a gated community with restricted access, and residents lived under constant security and surveillance. Workers were sworn to secrecy, and many did not know the true purpose of their work until the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. The town had its own schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities, creating a unique but isolated community.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) was established during the Manhattan Project and has since become a world-renowned research facility. Initially focused on developing uranium enrichment processes for the atomic bomb, ORNL has expanded its research to include nuclear energy, environmental science, and advanced materials. The Graphite Reactor, a National Historic Landmark, was the world's first reactor to produce significant amounts of plutonium and now serves as a museum.

In the 1950s, Oak Ridge played a pivotal role in the desegregation of schools in the American South. In 1955, the Clinton High School in nearby Clinton, Tennessee, became one of the first public schools to desegregate following the Brown v. Board of Education ruling. Oak Ridge High School followed suit, integrating its student body and setting a precedent for other schools in the region. This period marked significant social change and progress in the fight for civil rights.

During the Cold War, Oak Ridge continued to be a hub of scientific innovation and national defense. The town's labs and facilities were instrumental in advancing nuclear technology and energy research. The Y-12 National Security Complex, initially built for uranium enrichment, pivoted to produce nuclear weapons components and other defense-related technologies. The research conducted during this era laid the groundwork for many modern scientific advancements.

Today, Oak Ridge is a city that balances its historical significance with modern innovation. The community is home to cutting-edge research institutions and tech companies, attracting scientists and engineers from around the world. The American Museum of Science and Energy offers visitors a glimpse into the city's storied past and its ongoing contributions to science and technology. Oak Ridge remains a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring legacy of its origins.

Oak Ridge is located in eastern Tennessee, approximately 25 miles west of Knoxville. The nearest major airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, which offers various domestic flights. From the airport, you can rent a car, use a ride-sharing service, or take a taxi to reach Oak Ridge. Public transportation options from the airport are limited, so renting a car is often the most convenient choice.

Oak Ridge is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within a short drive. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the area. Local taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available. For public transportation, Oak Ridge Transit provides bus services within the city. Biking and walking are feasible for short distances, particularly in the city center.

The official currency in Oak Ridge, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

Oak Ridge is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any city, it is important to stay vigilant and exercise standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. The city does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Oak Ridge has a well-equipped local police force and medical facilities. The Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge provides emergency medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, several pharmacies are available throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers when using public transport. Don't play loud music or eat on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. A simple 'Hello' is commonly used. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to different dining experiences. Don't leave a small tip; tipping around 15-20% is standard in restaurants.

To experience Oak Ridge like a local, visit the Oak Ridge Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and willing to share interesting stories about the city's history. Don't miss visiting the American Museum of Science and Energy and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory for unique insights into the city's pivotal role in the Manhattan Project. For a relaxing day, take a stroll or bike ride along the Melton Lake Greenway, which offers scenic views of the lake.