☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies over the Model City today — High 85°F, Low 48°F, with just a 3% chance of rain. A warm one!
😄 Only in Kingsport
Eastman makes materials used in products all over the world, and somehow the most common conversation starter at any local cookout is still whether you work “up at Eastman” or not.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Kingsport’s beloved Pal’s Sudden Service is famous for its fast service and devoted local following — but what unique national distinction did Pal’s earn in the year 2001, making it the first restaurant company ever to receive it?
Answer: In 2001, Pal’s Sudden Service became the first restaurant company ever to receive the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, a prestigious honor presented by the U.S. Department of Commerce recognizing excellence in organizational performance.
🔝 Top Stories
Third Kingsport Defendant Sentenced in COVID-19 Tax Credit Fraud Scheme
A third Kingsport defendant has been sentenced in connection with a COVID-19 employment tax credit fraud scheme that spanned multiple local participants. The case involved conspirators who created phony businesses with no employees or operations to fraudulently claim pandemic-era tax credits — with the broader scheme claiming over $3.4 million in false tax refunds. This latest sentencing follows prior convictions of other Kingsport individuals tied to the same scheme.
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Kingsport Aquatic Center Outdoor Water Park to Open May 23
The Kingsport Aquatic Center’s outdoor water park is gearing up to open for the 2026 season on May 23. The annual opening is a much-anticipated milestone for families across the Model City as the weather warms up. Residents are encouraged to check with the Aquatic Center directly for hours, admission details, and any special opening weekend activities.
Kingsport Announces Road Closures for Run the Streets 10K & 5K
The City of Kingsport has announced road closures tied to the upcoming Run the Streets 10K and 5K race event. Residents should plan alternate routes during the event period. Full details on which streets will be affected and the timing of closures are available through the city.
Read more at Kingsport Times News
Dobyns-Bennett Senior Earns QuestBridge Scholarship
A senior at Dobyns-Bennett High School has recently been awarded a QuestBridge Scholarship, a nationally competitive award that connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with leading colleges and universities. The recognition is a significant academic achievement and reflects well on Kingsport City Schools. Congratulations to the student and their family on this well-earned honor.
Read more at Kingsport Times News
Northeast State & Greater Kingsport Family YMCA Forge Early Childcare Apprenticeship
Northeast State Community College and the Greater Kingsport Family YMCA have recently partnered to establish an early childcare apprenticeship program. The collaboration aims to create a workforce pathway for individuals pursuing careers in early childhood education right here in the Kingsport area. The program reflects a growing commitment by local institutions to address childcare workforce needs in the region.
Read more at Kingsport Times News
Kingsport Senior Walk 2026: Graduating Seniors Return to Their Elementary Schools
Graduating seniors from Kingsport recently participated in the annual Senior Walk tradition, voluntarily returning to the elementary schools where they once attended as young students. The heartwarming event gives seniors a chance to inspire younger students and reflect on how far they’ve come. The tradition has become a beloved rite of passage for the graduating class each spring.
Read more at Kingsport Times News
📅 Upcoming Events
Kingsport Public Works Day at the Farmers Market
The City of Kingsport will host its annual Public Works Day at the Farmers Market on Friday, May 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is held during National Public Works Week and is a great opportunity to learn more about the city services that keep Kingsport running.
Brothers of the Heart at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 — Brothers of the Heart will perform live at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Visit the Kingsport Chamber events calendar for ticket and time details.
More info at Kingsport Chamber
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center
Thursday, May 21, 2026 — The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra will perform at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Visit the Kingsport Chamber events calendar for ticket and time details.
More info at Kingsport Chamber
Smoky Mountain Fan Fest 2026
Friday, May 29, 2026, starting at 1:00 PM — Smoky Mountain Fan Fest returns to 1901 Meadowview Pkwy, Kingsport, TN. Visit the event listing for full details on performers and activities.
Fun Fest 2026 — Kingsport’s Signature Summer Festival
July 17–25, 2026 — Kingsport’s beloved Fun Fest returns for nine days of community celebration across 50+ locations with 100+ events. The 2026 Sunset Concert Series will feature Brothers Osborne, LeAnn Rimes, Daughtry, and Jeremy Camp. The Fun Fest Store opens June 27 inside the Kingsport Chamber.