☀️ Today’s Weather
Heavy showers today with a high of 85°F and a low of 68°F — 40% chance of rain. Keep that umbrella handy, Johnson City.
😄 Only in Johnson City
ETSU students move back in, the Doughboys are still playing, and Meet the Mountains Festival is around the corner — August in Johnson City is somehow the most exhausted and most exciting month at the same time.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: About how large is Winged Deer Park?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Johnson City Schools Approves Funds to Repair Freedom Hall Pool
Johnson City Schools recently gave the green light to a significant funding package to repair Freedom Hall Pool, which has been out of commission. The move is seen as a major win for student athletes and community members who rely on the facility for aquatics programs.
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.
TDH Announces New Regional Health Director for Northeast Tennessee
The Tennessee Department of Health recently announced a new regional health director for the Northeast Regional Health Office, which serves Johnson City and surrounding communities. The appointment signals continued investment in public health leadership for the region.
ETSU’s William B. Greene Jr. Stadium Going Cashless with Concession Upgrades
East Tennessee State University announced that William B. Greene Jr. Stadium will be going cashless, with concession upgrades also on the way. The changes are expected to be in place as the Bucs prepare for the upcoming football season.
Black Heritage Trail Highlights African American History in Downtown Johnson City
A Black Heritage Trail in downtown Johnson City is drawing attention as it highlights the history and contributions of Black residents in the area. The trail offers an opportunity for residents and visitors to explore local African American history through a self-guided experience.
Search for Nancy Tucker Gains New Hope
New hope has emerged in the ongoing search for Nancy Tucker, who went missing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The development has brought renewed attention to the search effort and the lasting impacts of the storm on local families.
Local Org to Host Disaster Preparedness Workshop for Farmers
A local organization is planning a disaster preparedness workshop specifically aimed at farmers in the region. The workshop is intended to help agricultural workers better prepare for natural disasters and other emergencies that can affect farms and food production.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Meet the Mountains Festival 2026
Date: August 14–16, 2026 | Location: Winged Deer Park Lakefront, Johnson City, TN
This free, family-friendly annual festival showcases Northeast Tennessee’s outdoor recreation assets. Activities include live music, ziplining, kayaking, mountain biking, a rock climbing wall, air dog shows, and more, along with food vendors and a local beer selection. The festival is free of charge and open to all ages.
The Oak Ridge Boys in Johnson City
Date: Friday, August 28, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Location: ETSU Martin Center for the Arts, Johnson City, TN
The legendary Oak Ridge Boys are coming to the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts for a live performance. For tickets and more information, visit the venue’s website.
More info at ETSU Martin Center
The Farmer & The Chef Culinary Event
Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026, 4:00–7:00 PM | Location: Blackthorn Club at the Ridges, Johnson City, TN
Join regional chefs using locally grown fresh food at this signature culinary event supporting the mission to end food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee. For more information, contact lwalker@netfoodbank.org or visit the link below.
📜 Today in Johnson City History
Today in Johnson City History
Ninety-five years ago today in 1931, former Tennessee Governor Alf Taylor marked his 83rd birthday from a hospital bed near Johnson City, telling his doctor he planned to “smoke two cigars instead of one” to celebrate. “Uncle Alf” had hoped for a big party at his home in Happy Valley, complete with watermelon, cake, and ice cream, but settled for a quiet day while recovering from kidney surgery.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
About 200 acres, making it one of the larger parks in the Johnson City system and home to a wide variety of recreational amenities.