☀️ Today’s Weather
Rain showers today with a high of 84°F and a low of 72°F. There is a 55% chance of rain — keep an umbrella handy.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Tax-free weekend hits Johnson City and suddenly every parking lot on North Roan looks like a Doughboys home game, a ETSU move-in day, and a county fair all happened at once.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: John Tipton’s rival in the State of Franklin dispute later became one of Tennessee’s most famous early leaders. Who was he?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Owl’s Nest Ready for Tax-Free Weekend with Extra Deals
Tennessee’s back-to-school tax-free weekend is here (July 31 – August 2), and Johnson City’s locally owned consignment shop Owl’s Nest is fully stocked and staffed up to meet the rush. The owners are sweetening the deal beyond the state tax holiday with an additional store-wide discount to encourage shoppers to buy local rather than head to big-box retailers. They ask that customers hold off on bringing in buy-ins during the busy weekend.
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.
National Night Out Coming to Johnson City on August 4
The Johnson City Police Department is inviting the community to celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, from 4–8 p.m. at the Pavilion at Founders Park. The free, family-friendly event will feature games, giveaways, food, driving simulators, public safety displays, a dunk tank with School Resource Officers, and a chance to meet K-9 Buck and local first responders. Admission and all activities are free.
Read more at johnsoncitytn.org
UT Extension Office Shares Hydration Tips Amid Hot Summer
With summer heat continuing to grip the region, the UT Extension Office is sharing important hydration guidance to help residents stay safe. Local health experts are urging community members — especially those working or spending time outdoors — to be proactive about drinking enough water throughout the day. Visit the link below for the full tips from the Extension Office.
Back-to-School Mental Health: Tips to Help Students Transition
As the new school year approaches, mental health professionals are offering tips to help students — and families — navigate the transition back to the classroom. The back-to-school season can bring anxiety and stress for children of all ages, and local experts are encouraging parents to watch for signs and maintain open communication. See the full story for guidance and resources.
Indivisible Tri-Cities Hosts Call to Action Rally Featuring Jerri Green
Indivisible Tri-Cities recently held a Call to Action Rally in the area, hosting Jerri Green as a featured speaker. The event brought together local activists and community members for an evening of civic engagement. For full details on the event and what was discussed, see the coverage linked below.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
National Night Out — JCPD at Founders Park
Date/Time: Tuesday, August 4, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Pavilion at Founders Park, Johnson City
Description: The Johnson City Police Department hosts this free, family-friendly community event featuring games, giveaways, food, driving simulators, public safety displays, a dunk tank, K-9 demonstrations, and the chance to meet local first responders. Admission and all activities are free.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
Meet the Mountains Festival 2026
Date: August 14–16, 2026
Location: Winged Deer Park, Johnson City, TN (199 Carroll Creek Road)
Description: This free festival, hosted by Visit Johnson City, showcases Northeast Tennessee’s outdoor recreation assets and provides a one-stop shop to explore the region’s outdoor opportunities. Vendors and sponsors are still being sought — contact the festival director at mtmfest@visitjohnsoncitytn.com for details.
More info at mtmfest.org
The Oak Ridge Boys in Johnson City
Date/Time: Friday, August 28, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Location: ETSU Martin Center for the Arts, Johnson City
Description: The legendary Oak Ridge Boys bring their country gospel sounds to the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts for an evening performance.
More info — check ETSU Martin Center for tickets
The Farmer & The Chef Dinner
Date/Time: Sunday, August 30, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Blackthorn Club at the Ridges, Johnson City
Description: A signature culinary event with regional chefs using locally grown fresh food to support the mission of ending food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee. Presented by the area food bank.
More info at netfoodbank.org
Now Now at Down Home
Date: August 9, 2026
Location: Down Home, Johnson City
Description: Live music event at one of Johnson City’s beloved local music venues. Visit the link below for full details and tickets.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
📜 Today in Johnson City History
August 2, 1931: Old Teammates, New Rivals on the Mound
Ninety-five years ago today in 1931, the Johnson City Soldiers of the old Appalachian League squared off against Spruce Pine, North Carolina, in a highly anticipated matchup. Former Johnson City pitcher Lefty Wilson, now playing for the visitors, took the mound against local star “Paddlefoot” Morton — a reunion of old teammates turned rivals for one afternoon at three o’clock.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
John Sevier, who went on to become the first governor of Tennessee after the State of Franklin movement collapsed.