☀️ Today’s Weather
Thunderstorms today with a high of 96°F and a low of 70°F — 3% chance of rain, but keep an eye on those clouds anyway.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City is getting a Raising Cane’s, an Appalachian Tales & Tunes festival, and a new police hiring push all in the same week — the city is simultaneously becoming more delicious, more cultured, and more patrolled. That’s growth, JC-style.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City’s current Appalachian League baseball team has a name inspired by World War I soldiers. What is the team called?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
JCPD Looking to Hire at Least 10 Experienced Officers Amid City Growth
The Johnson City Police Department is actively recruiting experienced officers as the city continues to grow, looking beyond entry-level candidates to strengthen its ranks. The department’s push reflects the increasing demands on public safety resources as Johnson City expands.
Sponsored by
Frazier Plumbing
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JCPD Officer Named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
A Johnson City Police Department officer has recently been honored with the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award. The recognition highlights outstanding service and dedication to the community.
Man Arrested After Gunfire Strikes Contractor’s Vehicle in Johnson City
Johnson City police arrested a man in connection with a shooting incident in which gunfire struck a contractor’s vehicle. The suspect is now facing charges related to the incident.
4th of July & America 250 Preparations Underway in Johnson City
Johnson City is gearing up for Fourth of July celebrations with America’s 250th anniversary adding extra significance to this year’s festivities. Local organizers are making preparations for events tied to both Independence Day and the national America 250 commemoration.
Micro-Grant Applications Open for Downtown Johnson City Businesses
Downtown Johnson City businesses can now apply for micro-grants through a recently launched program aimed at supporting local commerce in the city center. The program is designed to help small businesses thrive and invest in downtown’s continued revitalization.
Battle of the Badges Blood Drive: Local First Responders Step Up
Washington County and Johnson City first responders recently came together to donate blood during the annual Battle of the Badges blood drive. The friendly competition between local agencies helps boost critical blood supplies for the region.
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 – Donnie and the Dry Heavers
The free, family-friendly Fridays After 5 summer concert series continues at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 p.m., featuring Donnie and the Dry Heavers. The series runs Friday evenings through July.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
Fridays After 5 – Isaac Hadden
The Fridays After 5 concert series at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., continues on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. with a performance by Isaac Hadden. Admission is free and open to all ages.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
Fridays After 5 – Crawford and Power
Fridays After 5 at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., rolls on with Crawford and Power performing on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. This free community concert series is presented by Downtown Johnson City’s Main Street Program.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
Fridays After 5 – Charlie Maples (Season Finale)
The final concert of the 2026 Fridays After 5 season features Charlie Maples at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Come out and close out the summer concert series with the downtown community.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
Practical AI for Business Professionals Workshop
A hands-on workshop titled “Practical AI for Business Professionals: Go Beyond the Hype” is scheduled for Wednesday, July 22, 2026 from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Eastman Credit Union Board Room at the Chamber of Commerce, 602 Sevier St., Unit 101, Johnson City. Registration is required.
More info at johnsoncitytnchamber.com
📜 Today in Johnson City History
One hundred years ago today in 1926, a St. John’s Church school picnic at Lakeview pool nearly ended in tragedy when 17-year-old Isabelle Circonne, who couldn’t swim, walked off the end of a runway into seven feet of water. Two young men dove in to help, but she was pulling one of them under before others intervened and got her to shore. A lifeguard applied first aid, and she was rushed to the Appalachian Hospital — a forerunner of today’s Johnson City Medical Center — where she recovered.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
The Johnson City Doughboys, named in honor of the American soldiers of World War I who were nicknamed Doughboys.