☀️ Today’s Weather
Clear skies with a high of 97°F and a low of 67°F — only a 4% chance of rain. Stay hydrated and find some shade if you’re heading out today!
😄 Only in Johnson City
It’s 97 degrees, downtown is packed, and someone just asked if you want to grab a hot coffee and sit outside. Johnson City truly is built different.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: During Prohibition, Johnson City picked up a nickname that sounds more like a gangster movie than a mountain town. What was it?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Downtown JC Smoke Shop to Become Pizza Place
A downtown Johnson City business known as The Laboratory is transitioning its smoke shop space into a pizza restaurant, while moving its retail operations to a new location down the road. The change marks another shift in the evolving dining and retail landscape of downtown Johnson City.
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.
Johnson City Closes Legion Street Pool for Repairs
The City of Johnson City has temporarily closed the Legion Street Pool for repairs. Residents looking to cool off this summer should check for other available aquatic options while the repairs are underway.
JCPD Officer Recognized by the American Legion Department of Tennessee
A Johnson City Police Department officer was recently honored with a recognition from the American Legion Department of Tennessee. The award highlights the officer’s service and dedication to the community.
Man Charged After Johnson City Contractor’s Vehicle Struck by Bullet
A man has been charged after a contractor’s vehicle in Johnson City was struck by a bullet. The incident occurred in the West Market and Meredith Street area, according to reports.
ETSU Brewing and Distillation Studies Minor and Tennessee Hills Keeping Industry Alive
East Tennessee State University’s Brewing and Distillation Studies minor is helping to keep the craft beverage industry thriving in the region, with local business Tennessee Hills playing a part in the partnership. The program connects academic learning with real-world industry experience in the Tri-Cities area.
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 – Free Summer Concert Series
Downtown Johnson City’s free summer concert series continues every Friday evening in July at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FA5 concerts offer free family-friendly fun, bringing together residents and visitors alike for a live music experience. The next event is Friday, July 3, 2026.
Appalachian Tales & Tunes Coming to Johnson City
Appalachian Tales & Tunes is coming to Johnson City. For full details on date, time, and location, visit the link below.
Johnson City Fire Department “Hands Only” CPR Class
The Johnson City Fire Department is offering a free “Hands Only” CPR class for community members. For date, time, and registration details, visit the link below.
DR. ENUF Presents: Zach McNabb and Adrian Bundy – Now Now Concert Series
DR. ENUF’s Now Now concert series in Johnson City is featuring Zach McNabb and Adrian Bundy on July 17, 2026. For full venue and ticket details, visit the Johnson City Convention & Visitor Bureau event page.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
Listen Up Book Club
The Listen Up Book Club meets on Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. in Johnson City. For location and additional details, visit the Johnson City Convention & Visitor Bureau.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
📜 Today in Johnson City History
Eighty-five years ago today in 1941, the Johnson City Press reported that the city had reduced its municipal tax rate from $3.00 to $2.90 — a “good government dividend” to local taxpayers — while Washington County had just raised its rate. Mayor Sam H. Sells credited efficient administration and noted the city had simultaneously refunded its bonded debt at better interest rates and made several community improvements out of current funds.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Little Chicago — a nickname Johnson City earned during Prohibition for its reputation as a hub of bootlegging activity in the region.