☀️ Today’s Weather
Light drizzle today with a high of 69°F and a low of 58°F — 48% chance of rain, so keep an umbrella handy.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City gets a light drizzle and suddenly half the city drives like it’s a blizzard on I-26, and the other half acts like it’s the first time they’ve ever seen a cloud.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The Johnson City Doughboys play in which league?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Judge Set to Rule on Bribery Claim Against Former Johnson City Police Officer
A federal judge is expected to rule in a matter of days on a motion to dismiss claims of bribery against a former Johnson City police officer, brought by an alleged victim of Sean Williams. Judge Ronnie Greer, who presided over Sean Williams’ criminal trials, expressed skepticism toward alleged victim Mikayla Evans’ attorneys during the hearing, with his pointed remarks capturing doubts about the evidence presented. An attorney for former Johnson City police Capt. Kevin Peters asked for bribery claims against Peters to be dismissed, and Judge Greer appeared to lean in that direction; Evans’ attorneys had sought financial information from Peters, but a magistrate judge denied that request. Greer said he’ll enter an order in the coming days.
Know a Local Business That Should Be Here?
If you send us a business that becomes a sponsor, we’ll pay you $50 for it. No cap, no catch. Just hit reply with their name and we’ll take it from there. (We still make the final call on fit, same as any other pitch.)
1,500 Pages of Public Records Examined in Johnson City Data Center Debate
News 5 is continuing to seek answers on how Johnson City staff selected 200 feet as the minimum distance between data centers and residential property. The investigation digs into nearly 1,500 pages of public records to uncover what informed that decision. The rationale has largely come down to making the rules stand up in court — a city attorney noted the city can’t make rules that effectively ban a type of business.
Washington County First Responders Reflect on Helene’s Impact Two Years Later
Washington County first responders are marking two years since Hurricane Helene devastated the region, reflecting on the storm’s lasting impact on the community and their own experiences responding to the disaster. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the widespread destruction and the long road to recovery that followed the historic storm.
St. Dominic’s Donation Drop-Off Helps Mothers in Need
A donation drop-off effort organized through St. Dominic’s is working to support mothers in need in the Johnson City area. The initiative is collecting essential items and supplies to assist local families. Residents interested in contributing are encouraged to visit the source link for details.
Johnson City Businesses Ready for Fall
Local businesses across Johnson City are making the seasonal shift to fall, rolling out autumn merchandise, décor, and offerings to welcome the new season. Downtown shops and retailers are embracing the change as cooler temperatures begin to settle into the Tri-Cities area.
Flock Safety Cameras Back in Focus as Crime Watch Takes a Closer Look
WJHL’s Crime Watch segment recently examined the ongoing conversation around Flock Safety cameras in Johnson City, following months of public debate over the license plate reader technology. The segment explores how the cameras are used by local law enforcement and what questions residents continue to raise about privacy and oversight.
📅 Upcoming Events
Event details are pulled from public listings and can change. Please confirm dates and times on the official event page before making plans.
Jericho Shrine Circus Spectacular — Freedom Hall Civic Center
Performances are scheduled for Friday, September 25 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, September 26 at 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 7:30 PM; and Sunday, September 27 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM at 1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604.
Appalachian Fair Home Show — Appalachian Fairgrounds
The Appalachian Fair Home Show is taking place September 25–27, 2026 at the Appalachian Fairgrounds, with free admission for all. Step in for hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers to elevate your home.
Read more at the Johnson City Chamber
The Goose Chase Run — Founders Park, Johnson City
A Goose Chase race event is scheduled for Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 7:30 a.m. at Founders Park, 3211 People’s St., Johnson City, TN. Visit the source link for registration details and more information.
Stories from the Pumpkin Patch — 2620 S Roan St, Johnson City
Stories from the Pumpkin Patch is happening on Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 3:00 PM at 2620 S Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601. Visit the source link for more details and to RSVP.
Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament — Blackthorn Club, Jonesborough
The Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, with brunch and check-in from 10:30 AM–11:45 AM and a shotgun start at Noon, at Blackthorn Club, 1501 Ridges Club Dr., Jonesborough, TN 37659.
Read more at the Johnson City Chamber
Fall Festival — The Mall at Johnson City
A Fall Festival is happening on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 1:00 PM at The Mall at Johnson City. Visit the source link for more details.
Main Street Days Festival — Downtown Johnson City
The Main Street Days Festival takes place Saturday, October 18, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Main Street in downtown Johnson City, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, artisan vendors, and kids’ activities.
Read more at Northeast Tennessee Tourism
📜 Today in Johnson City History
A century ago today in 1926, Johnson City’s Dr. Casaius Ward Friberg married Alice Pauline Fairn in an elaborate Nova Scotia wedding that drew much of his hometown along with him — Johnson City residents Miss Mary Gump served as maid of honor, and Mrs. E. Haynes Miller, the groom’s sister, stood among the bridal party for a ceremony that was the talk of the Canadian town for weeks beforehand.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
The Appalachian League, a summer collegiate league serving players from across the country in the mountain communities of Appalachia.