☀️ Today’s Weather
Mainly clear skies today with a high of 89°F and a low of 69°F. Just a 6% chance of rain — a great late-summer Thursday in Johnson City.
😄 Only in Johnson City
On September 11th in Johnson City, you can attend a 9/11 stair climb memorial, watch a senior softball world series, cheer on kids at a cross country meet, and still make it home in time to complain about the one-way streets. It’s a full calendar for a city that still acts surprised it’s on the map.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: The Gray Fossil Site preserves an ancient ecosystem formed around what kind of natural feature?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Pedestrian Killed in Johnson City Crash on West Market Street
The Johnson City Police Department reports that a pedestrian died following a crash on West Market Street on Wednesday evening. According to multiple reports, Matthew Greer, 40, was crossing West Market Street near Hopper Road when he was struck by a pickup truck and later died at an area hospital. Preliminary investigation found no indication that speed, driver distraction, or impairment contributed to the crash.
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Disaster Preparedness Fair Held at Freedom Hall
A disaster preparedness fair was held recently at Freedom Hall in Johnson City, giving residents an opportunity to learn about emergency readiness resources and connect with local agencies. Events like this are part of ongoing efforts to ensure the community is equipped to handle a range of emergencies. Check the link below for more details on what was featured at the event.
Johnson City Woman Receives Proclamation from Governor Lee on Her 101st Birthday
A Johnson City woman recently celebrated her 101st birthday and was presented with a special proclamation from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee in honor of the milestone. The recognition highlights the remarkable longevity of a local resident and serves as a heartwarming community moment. Visit the link below to learn more about this centenarian’s special day.
Willow Springs Park Set for Major Playground Upgrades and Splash Pad
Johnson City’s Parks and Recreation Department is moving forward with significant upgrades to Willow Springs Park, including new playground equipment and a splash pad. The project, supported by state grant funding, will feature an inclusive sensory playground with slides, swings, climbing walls, balance beams, and sensory-specific elements. A contractor has been recommended for award on the project.
Tri-Cities Stair Climb Makes 9/11 Personal
On this 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, the Tri-Cities Stair Climb event is bringing the memorial home for local participants — with climbers carrying the names of those lost that day. The event reflects the deeply personal way the Tri-Cities community continues to honor the victims and first responders of 9/11. Read more about how participants are making the remembrance meaningful this year.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Event details are pulled from public listings and can change. Please confirm dates and times on the official event page before making plans.
Iron Mountains Invitational Cross Country Meet
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Location: Winged Deer Park, Johnson City, TN
The Iron Mountains Invitational returns to Winged Deer Park, bringing together hundreds of student runners from more than 60 elementary, middle, and high schools. Hosted by Visit Johnson City, this annual cross country event is free and open to the public.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
DREAD POPS – A Horror Anthology Screening
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Doors: 6 PM, Screening: 7 PM
Location: Jackson Theatre, Johnson City, TN
Join local filmmakers Jeffrey Payne and Dustin Miller for a special big-screen screening of the first four episodes of Dread Pops, an original horror anthology series. Each episode tells a different story set in a different time, connected by a mysterious thread.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
ISSA Senior Softball World Series
Dates: September 9–13, 2026
Location: Winged Deer Park, Johnson City, TN
The ISSA Senior Softball World Series is underway in Johnson City, bringing senior athletes from across the country to compete across multiple age and skill divisions. Admission is free for spectators.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
Rolling Thunder TN-4 Ride for Wreaths
Date: This weekend (details at link)
Location: Johnson City area
Rolling Thunder TN-4 is hosting a Ride for Wreaths event this weekend to support the Wreaths Across America mission of honoring veterans. Visit the link below for full schedule and participation details.
FREE Appalachian Fair Home Show
Date: Friday, September 25, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Location: Appalachian Fairgrounds, Johnson City, TN
The Appalachian Fair Home Show offers hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers for homeowners. Admission is free for all attendees.
Tenth Avenue North with Stars Go Dim at Jackson Theatre
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Location: Jackson Theatre, Johnson City, TN
Jackson’s Prime presents Tenth Avenue North with special guest Stars Go Dim for an evening of live music and worship. Tickets are available — visit the link for details.
Read more at Visit Johnson City
📜 Today in Johnson City History
One hundred and twenty-five years ago today in 1901, the Herald and Tribune floated an exciting idea: an electric rail line connecting Jonesboro and Johnson City by way of the Soldiers’ Home, which would let a man “get shaved, attend church and the opera, board at a first-class hotel in Jonesboro” and be a thoroughly up-to-date citizen.
For more details, subscribe to the Today in Johnson City History newsletter by Rebecca Henderson.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
A forested sinkhole-pond ecosystem, where animals came to drink and became preserved in the sediment over millions of years.