☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies over the Model City today — High 85°F, Low 68°F, with a 21% chance of rain. Keep an umbrella handy just in case those pop-up showers decide to show up.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City just got a brand-new cocktail bar, a new French bakery, a new grocery store concept, and a Raising Cane’s — all in the last few weeks. At this rate, the hardest decision in the Tri-Cities isn’t where to vote, it’s where to eat after you do.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The Johnson City Sessions are often compared with what more famous 1927 recording sessions?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Johnson City Teen Pleads Guilty in AI-Generated Porn Case Involving Classmates
A Johnson City teenager has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from his use of artificial intelligence to create pornographic images of classmates and coworkers. Christian Zarate pleaded guilty to aggravated exploitation of a minor and ten counts of unlawful photography for sexual gratification. Zarate avoids jail time but will serve six years of probation and be placed on the sex offender registry for life.
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.
Incumbent Joe Grandy Defeats James Reeves to Remain Washington County Mayor
Washington County voters went to the polls on August 6 and returned incumbent Joe Grandy to the mayor’s office, defeating challenger James Reeves. The race was one of several local contests decided during the statewide primary and county general election day. Results from other local races, including the Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge seat, were also decided.
Sherwood Elected Johnson City Juvenile Court Judge
Voters in Johnson City chose a new Juvenile Court Judge in the August 6 election. Sherwood won the race, which had drawn significant attention in the community in the lead-up to election day. The seat had been a topic of candidate forums and local debate in recent weeks.
Johnson City’s Black Heritage Trail Now Open
Johnson City has recently opened its Black Heritage Trail, a new addition to the downtown area. The one-mile, self-guided walking trail features 10 historical markers honoring the people, landmarks, and businesses connected to Black history in Johnson City. The trail offers residents and visitors a new way to explore the city’s rich and often overlooked history on foot.
New Herbal Grape Dr. Enuf Flavor Met With Positive Reviews
A new flavor of Johnson City’s beloved homegrown soda, Dr. Enuf, has hit the market and is getting a warm reception. The Herbal Grape variety is the latest addition to the iconic local brand’s lineup. Fans of the regional classic have been weighing in with largely positive reactions to the new offering.
Man Accused in Fatal Downtown JC Crash Appointed Attorney
The man accused in a fatal crash in downtown Johnson City has been appointed an attorney as the case moves through the legal process. The crash drew significant attention from the community when it occurred. Further court proceedings are expected as the case continues.
📅 Upcoming Events
Now Now — Live at Down Home
Indie band Now Now is scheduled to perform in Johnson City. The show is listed for August 9, 2026. For full details including ticket information, visit the Johnson City Convention & Visitor Bureau events page.
More info at Visit Johnson City
DR. ENUF Presents The State Line Band
DR. ENUF is presenting The State Line Band for a live music event in Johnson City. This is a great chance to celebrate one of the region’s most iconic brands while enjoying local live music. Check the Visit Johnson City events page for date, time, and venue details.
More info at Visit Johnson City
Sherlock Jr. x R.E.M. Silent Synced Film Event
A Sherlock Jr. x R.E.M. Silent Synced event is listed on the Johnson City Convention & Visitor Bureau events calendar. This type of event pairs a classic silent film with a synchronized musical soundtrack. Visit the events page for full date, time, and location details.
More info at Visit Johnson City
Freedom Hall Civic Center — Upcoming Show (August 15)
An event is scheduled at Freedom Hall Civic Center (1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City, TN) on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 8:00 PM. Ticket and event name information is available directly through the Freedom Hall box office. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact (423) 461-4884.
More info at JohnsonCityTN.org
The Farmer & The Chef Culinary Benefit Dinner
Join regional chefs and local farmers at Blackthorn Country Club for a signature culinary event using locally grown fresh food to support the mission of ending food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee. The event is scheduled for Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Blackthorn Club at the Ridges. For more information, contact Lee Walker at (423) 279-0430 or visit the link below.
Johnson City Jaunt Scavenger Hunt
The Johnson City Jaunt is an ongoing self-guided scavenger hunt experience available for residents and visitors to enjoy around the city at their own pace. It’s a fun way to explore Johnson City’s neighborhoods and landmarks. Check Eventbrite for ticketing and scheduling details.
Senior Olympics Return to Johnson City in September
The First District Tennessee Senior Olympics is coming to Johnson City, bringing together adults 50 and older to compete, stay active, and have fun. The event is scheduled for September. Visit WJHL for full details on how to participate and what sports are offered.
📜 Today in Johnson City History
Note from the editor: No local Johnson City history item was found for today’s date. The item below was flagged as not having a Johnson City connection.
Two hundred and thirty-nine years ago today in 1787, a young James Madison sat through the eleventh week of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, taking careful notes that would help shape the U.S. Constitution. This entry has no Johnson City tie in the source material pulled for this date; consider swapping in a local item if one turns up.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
The Bristol Sessions, held just up the road in Bristol, Tennessee, which are widely credited as the birth of commercial country music.