☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast with a high of 88°F and a low of 57°F. No rain expected today (0% chance).
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City is one of the few places where you can attend a city budget meeting about a new aquatic center, stop for bubble tea at a brand-new downtown shop on the way home, and still be in bed before 9 p.m. — because honestly, what else would you do on a Thursday?
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Which record company conducted the Johnson City Sessions?
Answer: Columbia Records, which sent a team to Johnson City in 1928 and 1929 to record local musicians performing old-time Appalachian music.
🔝 Top Stories
Johnson City Commission Passes First Reading of Budget with Tax Increase and Aquatic Center
The Johnson City Commission held a public hearing and first reading on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, which includes a property tax increase and funding for a new $37 million aquatic center. The budget must pass three times in public meetings, with the second and third readings scheduled for June 11 and June 25. Also included in the budget is funding for a “stabilization fund” which would allow the city to put $1 million back into its fund balance, which was heavily depleted after the city settled with the plaintiffs in the Jane Doe lawsuit concerning Sean Williams.
Sponsored by
Frazier Plumbing
Got a leaky pipe, a water heater on its last legs, or a drain that’s given up? Frazier Plumbing has been solving plumbing problems for Tri-Cities homeowners since 1980 — family-owned, locally operated, and available 24/7 when things go wrong at the worst possible time. No runaround, no oversized crews. Just experienced local plumbers who show up and fix it right.
New All-Star Venue Brings Magic Shows and Ghost Tours to Johnson City
Haunting stories and magical nights are in store at the new All-Star Venue in Johnson City, created by Ben Gerard and Kathy Shephard. Gerard hosts magic shows at the Magic Manor Theatre, while Shephard offers ghost tours, investigations, and an escape room experience through Paranormal Technology. They are located at 1109 Old Gray Station Rd in Johnson City.
Ribbon Cutting Held for New Rental Property in Johnson City
The community recently gathered to celebrate a ribbon cutting on a new rental property in Johnson City. The event marks a new addition to the local housing landscape. Visit the link below for full details on the development.
Johnson City Man Arrested After Alleged Home Invasion with Hammer
A Johnson City man was arrested after allegedly entering a home and attacking a victim with a hammer, according to police. The incident prompted a swift law enforcement response and resulted in the suspect’s arrest. Visit the link below for full details on the charges.
Johnson City Doughboys Prepare for Appalachian League Season Opener
The Johnson City Doughboys are gearing up for their Appalachian League season, which recently kicked off with opening night games across the league. The Doughboys previewed their roster and plans for the upcoming summer season. Check the link below for highlights and scores from opening night.
🏪 Local Business Spotlight
Shell Mill
Stone-ground milling is a pretty rare thing these days — what got you started, and what makes the process worth preserving?
Our interest comes from three generations of desire to reconnect with traditional food practices and provide our community with wholesome, minimally processed products. For generations, grains were milled slowly between stones, preserving the natural oils, flavor, and nutrition found in the whole grain. While modern roller mills are efficient, much of that character is lost in the process. Preserving stone-ground milling isn’t just about honoring tradition — it’s about offering a fresher, more flavorful product and helping people understand where their food comes from.
What’s the difference between what comes out of a stone mill versus the flour and cornmeal most people buy at the grocery store?
Stone-ground products retain the entire grain — the bran, germ, and endosperm — just as nature intended. Because the grain is milled more slowly and at lower temperatures, more of its natural flavor, texture, and nutritional value remain intact. Commercially produced flours and cornmeals are typically roller-milled, which separates parts of the grain and results in a longer shelf life but less flavor and fewer nutrients. Stone-ground cornmeal and flour tend to have a richer taste, heartier texture, and a freshness that people often notice immediately.
Where can people in the Tri-Cities find your products?
We sell direct and enjoy connecting with people who want to learn more about how their food is grown and processed. We currently offer yellow and white cornmeal, grits, and corn flour, with more products on the way. Our products can be found at select local markets, events, and retail partners throughout the Tri-Cities. The best way to stay current is through our Facebook page — search Shell Mill or Symber Shell.
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 — Free Summer Concert Series
Downtown Johnson City’s Main Street Program hosts the Fridays After 5 (FA5) summer concert series, offering free family-friendly fun with live music. The series is held in King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in June and July. This is a recurring weekly event — don’t miss a single Friday this summer!
Johnson City Jaunt (TN) Scavenger Hunt
Explore Johnson City in a fun, self-guided scavenger hunt adventure open to participants of all ages. This ongoing event lets you discover the city at your own pace. Visit Eventbrite for dates, times, pricing, and registration details.
Magic Manor Theatre Shows — The All-Star Venue
Gerard and Shephard told News Channel 11 that providing family-friendly options is important in the Tri-Cities, aiming to offer good, family-friendly entertainment at an affordable price in an intimate theater setting. They are located at 1109 Old Gray Station Rd in Johnson City. Visit the Magic Manor Theatre page for upcoming show dates and times.
Appalachian Equality Chorus Presents: Broadway Baby!
The Appalachian Equality Chorus presents Broadway Baby! Visit the Johnson City Convention & Visitor Bureau events page for full date, time, location, and ticket details.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
2026 CACFP Educator Training: Nourish & Flourish — Johnson City, TN
A professional training event for educators in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is coming to Johnson City. Visit Eventbrite for the full date, time, location, and registration information.
🤝 Community Partners
