☀️ Today’s Weather
Mainly clear skies today with a high of 87°F and a low of 71°F — a 29% chance of rain, so a late-day shower isn’t out of the question.
😄 Only in Johnson City
ETSU fall camp is open, high school athletes are back on the practice field, and about half of Johnson City is stuck behind a school bus for the first time in months — which means summer is officially over whether you’re ready or not.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The Johnson City Doughboys began play under their current name in what year?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Man Charged After Shots Fired in Johnson City Neighborhood
A man has been charged after shots were fired on Saturday afternoon, according to the Johnson City Police Department. A city statement said Brandon Lawson, 28, was taken into custody on property in the 1300 block of Baxter Street after the initial investigation. Eyewitnesses said Lawson fired two shots from his handgun, which was recovered at the scene along with two shell casings. No injuries were reported, but one of the bullets allegedly fired by Lawson struck a vehicle in the area. Lawson faces two counts of aggravated assault, according to police.
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.)
New Northeast Tennessee Sheriffs Set to Take Over Next Month
Newly elected sheriffs in northeast Tennessee are preparing to take office next month, and WJHL sat down with them to hear about their plans and priorities heading into their new roles. The transitions come after competitive local elections earlier this summer that saw several incumbent sheriffs challenged across the region. Visit the link below for the full interviews.
Grape Dr. Enuf Getting Rave Reviews
The new grape-flavored Dr. Enuf — the beloved Tri-Cities original soft drink — has been met with an enthusiastic response since its recent release. Local fans have been calling in with praise, with one source noting it’s generated “a lot more phone calls than we thought we would get.” The herbal soda brand, long a point of local pride in Johnson City, appears to have another hit on its hands with the new flavor.
ETSU Bucs Defense Shines in Opening Fall Scrimmage
The ETSU Buccaneers football team held its opening fall scrimmage, with the defense setting the tone early in camp. Head coach Tim Healy recently noted he expects to have a starting quarterback named by the end of next weekend, as competition at the position heats up ahead of the season opener. Fall camp officially began this week as the team ramps up preparations for the 2026 season.
📅 Upcoming Events
Women’s Power Hour Lunch
Women’s Power Hour with Lisa Carter is scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2026. For registration details, visit the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce event calendar.
More info at Johnson City Chamber
Johnson City Jaunt (TN) Scavenger Hunt
Explore Johnson City through this self-guided scavenger hunt — a fun activity for individuals, families, or groups to discover local spots around the city at their own pace. Check Eventbrite for current available dates and full details.
Lawnstock — A Day of Music in Downtown Johnson City
Lawnstock | A Day of Music in Downtown Johnson City is happening on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 1:00 PM onwards at Founders Park, Johnson City. This free outdoor music event is a summertime favorite in downtown JC.
Campbell Fighting Camels at ETSU Buccaneers Football (Season Opener)
The Campbell Fighting Camels at East Tennessee State Buccaneers Football game at William B. Greene Jr. Stadium is happening on Saturday, August 29, 2026. This is ETSU’s home opener for the 2026 season. Check the ETSU athletics website for kickoff time and ticket information.
Taco Trek — September Edition
Taco Trek | September is happening on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 6:30 PM onwards at 110 W Market St, Johnson City. Visit the link below for full details.
Annual Tree Streets Neighborhood Yard Sale 2026
The Annual Tree Streets Neighborhood Yard Sale 2026 is happening on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 8:00 AM onwards at the Tree Streets Historic District, Johnson City. This beloved community tradition draws bargain hunters from across the area each fall.
FREE Appalachian Fair Home Show — September 2026
The Appalachian Fair Home Show is taking place September 25–27, 2026, at the Appalachian Fairgrounds. The show features hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers to elevate your home — with free admission for all.
More info at Johnson City Chamber
📜 Today in Johnson City History
A century ago today in 1926, local pastors and church members from Johnson City and Bluff City traveled to Greeneville for the Baptist Holston Association’s annual gathering at First Baptist Church — one of many regional church conventions that regularly drew Johnson City families out of town each summer.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
2021, when the team rebranded from the Johnson City Cardinals as part of a broader reorganization of the Appalachian League.