☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies with a high of 71°F and a low of 52°F — no rain in the forecast today (0% chance).
😄 Only in Johnson City
Fall arrives in Johnson City and suddenly everyone’s an expert on which stretch of Roan Street has the best leaf color — right up until the weather flips back to 80 degrees by Tuesday.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: This large recreation area came from land once owned by the J. Norton Arney family. Which Johnson City park is it?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
JCPD Creates New Limits on Flock Camera Searches, Ends Nationwide Lookup
The Johnson City Police Department has announced new restrictions on how it uses its Flock Safety camera network, responding to growing community pressure. Following concerns raised by residents — including claims that outside organizations from other states had accessed data captured by Johnson City’s cameras — JCPD has enabled a safeguard feature that prohibits outside agencies from searching within the city’s network. The department says it will continue using the system, citing its effectiveness in recovering stolen property and solving crimes, and will not be pausing operations despite calls to do so.
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.)
TBI Investigating Washington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has opened an investigation into a Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputy, according to a report from WJHL. Details about the specific nature of the investigation have not been released publicly. Residents can follow updates through local news sources as the story develops.
JCPD Investigates Threatening Graffiti at Business Tied to Gubernatorial Candidate Hatley
Johnson City police are investigating after threatening graffiti was discovered at a Johnson City business connected to Tennessee gubernatorial candidate David Hatley. The message was found on a warehouse tied to the candidate, prompting a law enforcement response. The investigation is ongoing.
Johnson City Vice Mayor Jenny Brock Honored at Girl Scouts Luncheon
Johnson City Vice Mayor Jenny Brock was recently recognized at a Girl Scouts luncheon, receiving an honor from the organization. The recognition highlights Brock’s contributions to the local community. Further details on the award and ceremony are available through WJHL.
‘Meet the Candidates’ Event Hosted by Johnson City Chamber and League of Women Voters
The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters of Northeast Tennessee recently co-hosted a “Meet the Candidates” event for those running for Johnson City Commission and school board seats. The event gave residents an opportunity to hear directly from candidates ahead of the upcoming election. More information about the candidates and event is available at WJHL.
Woman Sues Funeral Home, Claims Brain Matter Returned with Partner’s Possessions
A woman has filed a lawsuit against a funeral home after she claims brain matter was returned among her late partner’s belongings. The disturbing allegation has drawn significant local attention. Details of the suit and the funeral home involved can be found in the full WJHL report.
📅 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
The Jericho Shrine Circus Spectacular is at Freedom Hall Civic Center (1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City) through Sunday, September 27. Remaining showtimes include: Saturday, Sept. 26 at 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 7:30 PM; Sunday, Sept. 27 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The circus features thrilling stunts, acrobats, and more. Attendees can arrive one hour before showtime to ride animals and meet circus performers. Kids 12 and under are free courtesy of Jericho Shriners and Carden Circus.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
7th Annual Oktoberfest @ Boones Creek — Johnson City Brewing
The 7th Annual Oktoberfest at Boones Creek is taking place on Saturday, September 26, 2026 starting at 11:00 AM at Johnson City Brewing. This annual fall celebration brings the Oktoberfest spirit to the Boones Creek area. Visit the event listing for tickets and full details.
Bluegrass Half Marathon — Johnson City
The Bluegrass Half Marathon returns to Johnson City on Sunday, September 27, 2026 with a start time of 7:30 AM. The race takes runners through the Johnson City area and celebrates the region’s running community. Visit the event listing for registration and course details.
Barktoberfest — Johnson City
Barktoberfest is happening on Saturday, September 26, 2026 starting at 9:00 AM at 243 Denny Mill Rd, Johnson City. This dog-friendly fall event is a favorite for local pet owners. Visit the event listing for full details.
PokeKon-Fest — All Pokémon Show — Johnson City
PokeKon-Fest, an all-Pokémon show, is coming to Johnson City on Saturday, September 26, 2026 starting at 10:00 AM at the Holiday Inn Johnson City by IHG. This event is geared toward Pokémon fans of all ages. Visit the event listing for more details.
Taco Trek | October — Downtown Johnson City
Taco Trek returns to Johnson City on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 starting at 6:30 PM at 110 W Market St, Johnson City. This local foodie event takes participants on a taco-themed culinary adventure through downtown. Visit the event listing for full details and registration.
Fall Book Lovers Paint Night — Into the Fire, Johnson City
Fall Book Lovers Paint Night is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM at Into the Fire in Johnson City. This creative evening event is designed for book and art enthusiasts looking to enjoy a fall-themed painting experience. Visit the event listing for details and tickets.
Fall Festival — The Mall at Johnson City
A Fall Festival is planned for Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM at The Mall at Johnson City. The event will offer fall-themed fun for the community. Visit the event listing for full details.
Storytelling Open Mic — Johnson City
A Storytelling Open Mic event is scheduled for Friday, October 2, 2026 in Johnson City. This event invites community members to share their stories in an open-mic format. Visit the Visit Johnson City event page for location and additional details.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
📜 Today in Johnson City History
One hundred and twenty-five years ago today in 1901, county officials neatly draped the Washington County courthouse in crepe and bunting in honor of the recently assassinated President William McKinley, with a portrait of the president displayed at the center of the memorial — one of many local tributes that week as businesses across town joined in the mourning.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Winged Deer Park, a large recreational area on the outskirts of Johnson City that was developed from land with ties to the Arney family.