☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies with a high of 78°F and a low of 63°F — a 51% chance of rain, so keep an umbrella handy.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Legion Street Pool opens for Memorial Day weekend, Freedom Hall pool is still being debated, and somewhere in between, Johnson City residents are just driving to Elizabethton.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: Johnson City is home to TVA Credit Union Ballpark, the home of the Johnson City Doughboys. But long before the Doughboys, the ballpark hosted a famous minor league affiliate — what was the name of that minor league team, and in what year did Johnson City’s professional baseball history begin?
Answer: Johnson City’s professional baseball history dates to 1910. The city hosted various Appalachian League teams over the decades, most famously the Johnson City Cardinals (a St. Louis Cardinals affiliate), who played there for many years before the Appalachian League transitioned to a collegiate summer wood-bat circuit in 2021.
🔝 Top Stories
Downtown Crash Raises Questions About Defendant’s Criminal History
A deadly DUI crash in downtown Johnson City that killed one person and injured three others is now sparking broader questions about Tennessee’s criminal justice system. Court records reveal that the suspect, Steven Kotsonis, had a lengthy prior history, leading many in the community to ask how he remained free to drive. Legal experts weighed in on how Tennessee law handles bond, plea deals, and repeat offenders — noting that in many domestic assault cases, victims often decline to cooperate, making convictions difficult.
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Legion Street Pool Reopens for Memorial Day Weekend
Johnson City’s Legion Street Pool is set to reopen for the summer season in time for Memorial Day weekend, giving residents a chance to cool off as warm weather arrives. The reopening is welcome news for families across the city heading into the holiday weekend. For full details on hours and admission, visit the link below.
Splash Pad and Playground at Rotary Park Closed Until June 7
Families planning a visit to Johnson City’s Rotary Park should be aware that the splash pad and playground are currently closed and will remain so until June 7. The closure affects one of the city’s popular warm-weather destinations just as Memorial Day weekend approaches. Residents are encouraged to check for updates before heading out.
Big Train Show Returns to Mini-Dome May 29–30
The Big Train Show is returning to the Mini-Dome in Johnson City on May 29–30, offering model train enthusiasts and families a chance to see elaborate train displays and exhibits. The event is a well-known regional attraction that draws visitors from across the Tri-Cities area. Visit the link below for more details on hours and admission.
Market Street School Hosts Inaugural Graduation Ceremony
Market Street School recently celebrated a significant milestone, hosting its very first graduation ceremony. Graduates were honored at the inaugural event, marking a major moment for the school community and its founding class. Read more for full details on the celebration.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Rolling Thunder TN4 Ride for Freedom
Sunday, May 24, 2026 | 12:00 PM | Freedom Hall, Johnson City, TN
A motorcycle ride and patriotic event honoring veterans and POW/MIA individuals. The event is held at Freedom Hall Civic Center.
Six the Musical – ETSU Martin Center for the Arts
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 | 7:00 PM | ETSU Foundation Grand Hall at ETSU Martin Center for the Arts, Johnson City, TN
A performance of the hit musical “Six” at the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts. For tickets and more information, visit the link below.
Big Train Show at the Mini-Dome
May 29–30, 2026 | Freedom Hall / Mini-Dome, 1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City, TN
The beloved Big Train Show returns to the Mini-Dome, featuring model train displays and exhibits for all ages.
4th Annual Car Show – Johnson City
Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 140 Technology Lane, Johnson City, TN (Rain Date: June 6)
The 4th Annual Car Show features classic cars, food trucks, live music, awards, door prizes, and a 50/50 drawing. Vehicle registration begins at 9:30 AM by donation. All proceeds benefit the Activity Department for residents. All makes and models are welcome.
More info at Visit Johnson City
Jazz at Langston Centre
Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 7:00 PM | Langston Centre, 315 Elm Street, Johnson City, TN
A jazz performance event at the historic Langston Centre in Johnson City. For tickets and details, visit the link below.
Chuck Brodsky at The Jackson Theatre
Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 7:00 PM | The Jackson Theatre, Johnson City, TN
Singer-songwriter and storyteller Chuck Brodsky performs at The Jackson Theatre. Brodsky is known for his rootsy, finely crafted songs and storytelling style, performing at festivals and concerts across the U.S. and internationally.
More info at Visit Johnson City
Second Harvest Food Bank Golf Classic
Monday, June 1, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Blackthorn Club at The Ridges, Johnson City area
The 33rd Annual Second Harvest Golf Classic benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee. The event supports the mission to end food insecurity in the region.
Fridays After 5 – Free Summer Concert Series
Fridays beginning June 5, 2026 | 6:30 PM | King Commons, Johnson City, TN
Johnson City’s beloved free outdoor summer concert series kicks off at King Commons in downtown. The series runs on select Fridays in June and July. Check the Downtown Johnson City events calendar for the full lineup.
More info at Downtown Johnson City