☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies today with a high of 69°F and a low of 43°F. Just a 1% chance of rain — a good day to get outside.
😄 Only in Johnson City
The Johnson City Farmers Market turns 50 this year. Half a century of locals showing up on Saturday mornings, buying tomatoes, and running into their dentist.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City is home to a major regional health system headquartered right here in town. That health system has been performing robotic-assisted surgeries using da Vinci systems since what year — and across how many hospitals does it currently offer robotic-assisted surgery?
Answer: Ballad Health has offered da Vinci robotic-assisted surgeries since 2008, and currently offers robotic-assisted surgery across eight hospitals in its system, including Johnson City Medical Center and Franklin Woods Community Hospital.
🔝 Top Stories
Ballad Health Unveils da Vinci 5 Robot, Expanding Access to Three More Hospitals
Ballad Health recently celebrated the addition of the next-generation da Vinci 5 surgical robot, expanding the technology’s reach to three more hospitals within its regional system. The health system, headquartered in Johnson City, has been a long-standing user of da Vinci robotic systems and continues to grow its surgical robotics program across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
Read more at Johnson City Press
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.
Arrests Made in Food City Armed Robbery Investigation
Authorities have made arrests in connection with an alleged armed robbery investigation involving a local Food City. Johnson City police had been searching for suspects following the incident, and three individuals were taken into custody.
Read more at Johnson City Press
JC Library Puts In $2.3 Million FY27 City Funds Request
The Johnson City Public Library has submitted a funding request to the city as part of the upcoming fiscal year 2027 budget process. The library is seeking city funds to support its operations and services for the community.
Read more at Johnson City Press
Local School Officials Respond After Tennessee Ranks Last in School Investment Report
Local school officials have weighed in after a new report ranked Tennessee last in the nation for school investment. The findings have prompted responses from educators and administrators in the Johnson City and Washington County area about what the ranking means for local students.
Boones Creek Outdoor Classroom to Take Shape Over Summer
An outdoor classroom project at Boones Creek is set to move forward over the coming summer months. The project will bring an educational outdoor learning space to the Boones Creek area of Washington County.
Read more at Johnson City Press
More Than 5,000 Votes Cast in Washington County Ahead of Primary
Early voting for the May primary election has drawn strong participation in Washington County, with more than 5,000 votes cast. The contested primary features several local races drawing voter interest across the county.
Read more at Johnson City Press
🏪 Local Business Spotlight
Fleenor Security
Hannah Gossett calls herself a Life Safety Professional — and the distinction matters. We talked with the Fleenor Security sales consultant about what protecting a home or business actually looks like in the Tri-Cities.
What does your role actually look like day to day?
“No two days look exactly the same. When I have appointments, I come prepared and typically spend an hour or more with each customer walking them through the security process. I also spend time out in the community reaching out to new homeowners and businesses — introducing our services and sharing information. Our goal isn’t just to sell security. It’s to make sure customers understand the value of having protection in place.”
When you sit down with someone for the first time, what do you ask before recommending anything?
“The first question I usually ask is, ‘What made you reach out to Fleenor? Did something happen?’ This helps me understand what prompted them. From there, I walk through the home or business with them and offer recommendations while giving them options. We’re building a system together that fits their specific needs.”
What do most people in the Tri-Cities not know about security that you wish they did?
“The biggest misconception is that security systems are only needed after something has already happened. In reality, they’re designed to be proactive. A lot of people also don’t realize how customizable modern systems are — smart outlets, door locks, lighting control, all monitored from your phone. It’s not one-size-fits-all. You can tailor a system to fit your home, business, and budget.”
fleenorsecurity.com | (423) 361-6519
📅 Upcoming Events
Johnson City Farmers Market — 2026 Opening Day
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Pavilion at Founders Park, Downtown Johnson City
The Johnson City Farmers Market kicks off its 50th anniversary season! The market runs every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM through October 31. Come celebrate a half-century of local produce, baked goods, arts, crafts, and community fellowship in the heart of downtown.
More info at johnsoncityfarmersmarket.net
Rail Jam! — May 2, 2026
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Johnson City Railroad Experience — W King St, Johnson City, TN 37604
A free outdoor concert and museum event featuring live music from Jenny and the Weazels, Bratfolk, Ryan Brenard, and John Bill & the Academics. Food truck on site. Concerts and museum admission are completely free. Made possible by the Tennessee Arts Commission.
Mother/Son Night Out — Western Style!
Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Memorial Park Community Center, Johnson City
A western-themed Mother/Son Night Out event at Memorial Park Community Center. Visit the source link for full details and registration information.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
Good Samaritan Ministries — Anchor of Hope Community Resource Fair
Friday, May 1, 2026
Johnson City area
Good Samaritan Ministries is hosting its “Anchor of Hope” Community Resource Fair, bringing together resources and support services for community members in need. Visit the source link for full location and timing details.
Six the Musical — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts
Tuesday, May 26 – Wednesday, May 27, 2026
ETSU Martin Center for the Arts (NPAC), Johnson City
The hit Broadway touring production Six the Musical comes to the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts for two nights of performances. Check the source link for exact show times and ticketing information.
More info at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
Symphony of the Mountains — “Show Me the Paths” Concert
Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 3:00 PM
ETSU Martin Center for the Arts (NPAC), Johnson City
The Symphony of the Mountains presents “Show Me the Paths,” described as a deeply moving and uniquely collaborative concert, and the final performance in their 2025–2026 Free Community Performance Series. Tickets are free and available on a first come, first served basis.
More info at johnsoncitytnchamber.com