☀️ Today’s Weather
Friday, April 3, 2026 — Overcast. High 82°F, Low 60°F. 11% chance of rain.
😄 Joke of the Day
A Kingsport man told his buddy he was thinking about moving to Johnson City. His buddy said, “Why would you leave the Model City?” He said, “I heard the traffic was better over there.” His buddy shook his head: “Son, you’d trade Bays Mountain for a slightly shorter commute on I-26. That’s not a move — that’s a cry for help.”
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Kingsport is home to a historic landmark known as the Netherland Inn, which sits along the Holston River. In what year was the Netherland Inn built, and what was its original purpose before it became a famous tavern and inn for travelers heading westward?
Answer: The Netherland Inn was built in 1802 and originally served as a boat yard for salt distribution. It later became a popular tavern and inn serving travelers on the Great Stage Road heading from the eastern seaboard toward the western frontier.
🔝 Top Stories
Lawmakers, Expert Weigh Prospects for a Ballad Health Competitor
The question of whether Ballad Health — the sole hospital system serving much of the Tri-Cities region, including Kingsport — could face a competitor is once again making headlines at the state level. Tennessee lawmakers and a healthcare expert weighed in this week on the prospects of a rival health system entering the market, as ongoing debate continues over whether existing regulations protect or limit patients’ access to care. The conversation is part of a broader legislative push to revisit the Certificate of Public Advantage (COPA) agreement that governs Ballad’s monopoly status in the region. Kingsport residents and healthcare consumers across Sullivan County are closely watching these developments, as any changes could significantly affect local hospital services and healthcare options.
Sullivan County Community Center and School Infrastructure Plans Move Forward
Progress is moving on both potential projects, though no votes were taken by the Sullivan County school board at its recent meeting. The projects under discussion include facility improvements touching both community center planning and school HVAC and switchgear upgrades — ongoing efforts to modernize aging infrastructure across the county. Sullivan County officials continue to work through the planning and funding stages for these capital investments, which are part of a broader push to improve public facilities serving Kingsport and surrounding communities. Residents can expect more updates as the school board and county commission continue deliberations in the coming weeks.
Read more at Kingsport Times News
Sullivan County Mayoral Race Heats Up Ahead of May 5 Primary — Early Voting Begins April 15
Candidates in the May 5 Sullivan County mayoral election have been speaking on their initiatives, with four petitions issued for county mayor. The four candidates include Angie Stanley (R), Zane Vanover (R), Barry Brickey (R), and Ilna Perna (R). Key issues on the campaign trail include addiction, education funding, infrastructure, and property taxes. Early voting for the 2026 primary election opens on April 15 and closes on April 30 — giving Sullivan County voters a wide window to cast their ballots before Election Day on May 5.
📅 Upcoming Events
May Shop & Hop — Downtown Kingsport
When: Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Downtown Kingsport, TN
The May Shop & Hop, sponsored by First Horizon Bank, invites shoppers to enjoy sales and special offers from local downtown shops. Downtown Kingsport has much to offer, from restaurants and antique shops, theatre, and sweet treats. This monthly evening shopping event is a great way to support small businesses and explore everything downtown Kingsport has to offer. Check the Downtown Kingsport Association website for a list of participating businesses and special deals.
See details at Downtown Kingsport Association