☀️ Today’s Weather
Sunday, April 12, 2026 — Overcast with a high of 83°F and a low of 53°F. Just a 1% chance of rain — a warm spring day ahead!
😄 Joke of the Day
A tourist asked a Johnson City local, “Is it always this hilly around here?” The local scratched his head and said, “Shoot, I wouldn’t know — I’ve never been anywhere flat enough to tell the difference.”
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City’s Washington County is holding a contested May 5, 2026 primary election. Early voting runs from April 15–30. Washington County is the home county of ETSU — but what does “ETSU” stand for, and in what year was the university founded?
Answer: ETSU stands for East Tennessee State University, founded in 1911.
🔝 Top Stories
🗳️ Early Voting Kicks Off for Contested Washington County Primary
Early voting has begun for the upcoming May 5, 2026 county primary election, with contested races drawing attention across Washington County. The early voting period runs from Wednesday, April 15 through Thursday, April 30, 2026, giving voters ample time to cast their ballots before Election Day. Residents are encouraged to check their sample ballot and polling location ahead of time.
Read more at Johnson City Press
🔥 $2 Million Bond Set for Gray Man Accused of Arson
A Gray man is facing serious charges after allegedly setting his mother and their home on fire. A judge set bond at $2 million for the accused, reflecting the severity of the alleged crimes. The case drew significant community attention given its unusual and disturbing nature.
Read more at Johnson City Press
🎓 Community Celebrates Life of Former ETSU President Dr. Paul Stanton Jr.
The Tri-Cities community recently came together to honor the memory of Dr. Paul Stanton Jr., a former president of East Tennessee State University. A celebration of life was held in his honor, reflecting on his significant contributions to ETSU and the broader region. Dr. Stanton was a beloved figure whose leadership left a lasting impact on the university and Johnson City.
⚖️ Charge Dropped Against Man Arrested at Washington County School Board Meeting
A charge has been dropped against a Johnson City man who was arrested at a Washington County Board of Education meeting. The dismissal comes amid a period of heightened tensions and public scrutiny surrounding the school board, following recent controversies including the censure of a board member. The development adds another chapter to what has been a turbulent stretch for the local school district.
📋 Superintendent Boyd Reflects on Censure and Announces Retirement
Washington County Schools Superintendent Dr. Boyd recently spoke out about the censure that rocked the school board in recent weeks, describing the experience as one involving “a lot of reflection.” In addition to commenting on the censure, Boyd also outlined plans for retirement, signaling a significant transition ahead for Washington County Schools leadership. The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the district as it navigates ongoing governance challenges.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
🎷 Johnson City Jazz Festival — April 16–19, 2026
Organizers of the Johnson City Jazz Festival have formally unveiled the performance schedule for April 16–19, 2026. The festival features more than half a dozen regional ensembles in a series of curated sets and improvisational jam sessions at Capone’s in Downtown Johnson City. On Friday, April 17, the festivities transition to the ETSU Martin Center. The Johnson City Jazz Festival at The Jackson Theatre is scheduled for April 18 from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM, and again April 19 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Read more at johnsoncityjazzfestival.com
🍊 Thirsty Orange Beer Festival — April 18, 2026
The Thirsty Orange Beer Festival 2026 is scheduled for April 18, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This beloved downtown Johnson City craft beer celebration returns to the heart of the city for another year of local and regional brews. The Thirsty Orange Festival is hosted by Downtown Johnson City.
🎨 Forever Fest: West Walnut Block Party — April 24, 2026
Forever Fest: West Walnut Block Party is scheduled for April 24, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. This community block party celebration brings neighbors and visitors together along West Walnut Street in Johnson City for an evening of fun and local flavor. Visit the Visit Johnson City website for more details.
Read more at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
🎨 Art·Struck Festival — April 25, 2026
The Art·Struck Festival is scheduled for April 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The festival celebrates Johnson City’s vibrant arts and culture scene and will feature live music, interactive art exhibits, food trucks, and family-friendly activities across multiple venues in downtown Johnson City. This is a great opportunity for the whole family to explore the city’s thriving creative community.
🚂 Mother’s Day Express — May 9, 2026
Celebrate Mom with a special excursion hosted by the George L. Carter Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. Depart Johnson City by motor coach to Knoxville, board the Three Rivers Rambler steam engine for a scenic journey through the city, then enjoy a Mother’s Day lunch cruise aboard the Star of Knoxville paddlewheel riverboat on the Tennessee River.
For more information contact the Johnson City Railroad Experience at 423-631-5273.
🗳️ Early Voting — May 5, 2026 County Primary
The state and county primary election is scheduled for May 5, with early voting from April 15–30. Washington County residents can cast their ballots early for contested county races including local offices. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is April 25, 2026. Contact the Washington County Election Commission at 423-753-1688 for polling location information.