☀️ Today’s Weather
Thursday, July 2, 2026 — Clear skies. High 97°F, Low 70°F. 3% chance of rain. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak afternoon hours.
😄 Only in Kingsport
Kingsport is two weeks away from Fun Fest and somehow the Fun Fest Store has already been open for days, the schedule is printed, the T-shirts are folded, and someone at the office has already mapped out the parking. The Model City doesn’t wait around.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: That giant buffalo carving at the carousel can seat how many children and adults?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
🌡️ Heat Relief Resources Available Across the Area
With temperatures climbing dangerously high this week, local aid organizations and shelters have mobilized to offer heat relief for vulnerable residents. The Salvation Army in Kingsport is among those opening their doors to provide a cool refuge during the heatwave. A list of cooling shelters across the Tri-Cities has also been published for residents who need relief from the heat.
See the full list of cooling shelters at WJHL
Sponsored by
Crosscut Tree Services
Got a tree that’s leaning, dying, or just getting a little too comfortable with your roofline? Terry and the crew at Crosscut handle it all — removal, trimming, and 24/7 emergency service when a storm doesn’t wait for business hours. They’re local, they’re licensed, and if you’ve seen their reviews, you know they show up on time and do the job right the first time. Free quotes. No pressure.
🏊 Kingsport Aquatic Center to Host Fun Fest Night Swim
The Kingsport Aquatic Center is gearing up to host a special night swim event as part of the upcoming Fun Fest celebration. The event promises a fun-filled night of swimming, dancing, and more in the Outdoor Water Park, with music and concessions available. Tickets are available for preregistration, with a discounted rate for those who register in advance.
🔥 Crews Respond to Attic Fire in Kingsport
Kingsport fire crews responded to an attic fire in the city this week. Details on the location and cause of the fire were not immediately available from the headline, but the incident was captured on video by local news crews. Residents are reminded to check smoke detectors regularly, especially during the hot and dry summer months.
🏠 Holston Habitat for Humanity Builds New Home for Kingsport Family
Holston Habitat for Humanity recently completed construction of a new home for a Kingsport family. The project highlights the organization’s ongoing efforts to address housing needs in the local community. Visit the link below for more details on the family and the build.
⛳ Rocky Top Golf Prepares for Mini-Golf Grand Opening with America250 Tribute
Rocky Top Golf is preparing to open a new mini-golf course in Kingsport, with the grand opening tied to a tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. The new attraction adds another family-friendly recreation option to the area. Visit the link below for more details on the opening timeline and location.
📅 Upcoming Events
🏈 2026 Charlie Browder Fun Fest Football Camp — Upcoming in July
The 2026 Charlie Browder Fun Fest Football Camp is coming up as part of the broader Fun Fest season. Specific dates, times, and registration details are available via the Eventbrite listing below.
🍝 SMILE Foster Closet Gift-a-thon & Spaghetti Dinner — July 10, 2026
Friday, July 10, 2026 | Doors 5:00 PM, dinner 5:15–7:00 PM, drawing 7:30 PM
Waverly Road Presbyterian Church, 1415 Waverly Rd, Kingsport
A spaghetti dinner and prize drawing benefiting SMILE Foster Closet and the local foster families they support. Dinner is $3 per person ($3.50 to-go). Gift-a-thon tickets are $2 each or six for $10, with no limit on entries. Every prize is worth at least $50, including themed baskets, gift cards, and event tickets.
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Five children and two adults, making it an interactive piece of art as well as a photo opportunity for carousel visitors.