☀️ Today’s Weather
Mainly clear skies over Johnson City today — High 89°F, Low 63°F, with just a 1% chance of rain. A great day to get outside!
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City is getting a locally-owned grocery store AND a refillery on West Walnut Street. Meanwhile, the rest of the country is still arguing about self-checkout.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The fossils at Gray are far older than human history in Tennessee. About how old are they?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Locally-Owned Grocery Store and Refillery Planned for West Walnut Street
A new locally-owned grocery store and refillery is in the works for West Walnut Street in Johnson City. The concept appears aimed at offering residents an alternative to big-box retailers, with a focus on local and sustainable products. Check the link below for the latest details on the planned opening.
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.
JCPD Investigating Stabbing Near Edge of Tree Streets
The Johnson City Police Department is investigating a stabbing that occurred near the edge of the Tree Streets neighborhood. Details remain limited as the investigation is ongoing. Residents in the area are encouraged to stay informed through local updates.
Cyclospora Parasite Infecting Produce Across the U.S. and Local Areas
Health officials are raising awareness about Cyclospora, a parasite that has been found infecting produce across the United States, including in local areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about safe food handling and washing of fresh produce. Visit the link below for more information on symptoms and precautions.
Johnson City Honda Raises More Than $11K for 5 Local Charities
Johnson City Honda recently raised more than $11,000 for five local charities as part of a fundraising campaign. The donations were distributed among local nonprofit organizations. This marks another community-focused effort from the local dealership.
School Board Hopefuls Meet Washington County Voters
Candidates vying for Washington County school board seats recently met with local voters ahead of the upcoming election. The event gave community members a chance to hear from those seeking to shape the direction of local public education. See the link below for coverage of the candidates and issues discussed.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 – Free Summer Concert Series: Isaac Hadden
Date/Time: Friday, July 17, 6:30–8:30 PM
Location: King Commons Park, Downtown Johnson City
Downtown Johnson City’s free summer concert series continues with live music in King Commons Park. This week’s performance features Isaac Hadden. The series runs through July 31 and is free to attend.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
DR. ENUF presents Zach McNabb and Adrian Bundy
Date/Time: Friday, July 17
Location: Downtown Johnson City
DR. ENUF presents a live music performance featuring Zach McNabb and Adrian Bundy. Visit the link below for full event details and location information.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
Isaiah 117 House Lemonade Stand Weekend
Date/Time: This week (July 15–20)
Location: Johnson City area
Isaiah 117 House is hosting its annual Lemonade Stand Weekend fundraiser this week. The event supports the organization’s mission of serving children in foster care. Check the link below for ways to participate or donate.
Business Book Club
Date/Time: Sunday, July 26, 5:30–7:00 PM
Location: Johnson City (teahouse venue)
The Business Book Club meets monthly and this month’s featured read is The 80/20 Principle. No registration is needed — it’s a drop-in event. Food and beverage purchases are encouraged to support the teahouse nonprofit, and all are welcome regardless of ability to pay.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
10 Years – Live at Capone’s
Date/Time: Friday, July 31, Doors 7:00 PM | Show 8:00 PM
Location: Capone’s, 227 E. Main St, Johnson City, TN
Knoxville-based alternative hard rock band 10 Years returns to Capone’s for a live performance. The show is for ages 18 and up with a valid state-issued or U.S. military photo ID. Visit the link below for ticket information.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
The Farmer & The Chef
Date/Time: Sunday, August 30, 4:00–7:00 PM
Location: Blackthorn Club at the Ridges, Johnson City
This signature culinary event brings together regional chefs using locally grown fresh food to support the mission of ending food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee. Visit the link below to learn more or purchase tickets.
📜 Today in Johnson City History
Ninety-five years ago today in 1931, the Johnson City Chronicle reported that all retail stores, banks, and wholesale houses in Johnson City would close at noon on July 17 for the opening of U.S. Highway No. 23. A “Neighbors’ Day” was planned for the following day, with band concerts, novelty events, and free merchandise to welcome visitors. The new highway was expected to bring thousands of tourists and shoppers through Johnson City, Kingsport, and surrounding communities.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
About 4.5 to 5 million years old, dating to the Early Pliocene epoch long before humans arrived in North America.

