Good morning, Johnson City.

Boones Creek Elementary is offering extra counseling support as students, staff, and families return to class today following a Christmas Day house fire in Sullivan County that claimed two young lives, with additional guidance counselors coming through a partnership with Frontier Health.

Washington County Mayor Joe Grandy released a statement yesterday recommending a pause on the BWXT expansion after community concerns were raised about high-tech job plans+ he said more answers from BWXT are needed before moving forward.

The CDC’s weekly flu report (released on Jan.

5) shows very high influenza activity in the Tri-Cities area, with many doctor visits linked to flu-like illness.

After the recent NHL Winter Classic, sports executives renewed interest in Bristol Motor Speedway, but track president Jerry Caldwell said viral reports that the track will host the 2027 classic are inaccurate.

He noted that Bristol’s strong record continues to prompt inquiries from sports groups.

Saving Shirley Live

9 PM – 12 AM — Capone's — Cover charges may apply — Rock out to the energetic 2000's party tunes from WNC's premier cover band.

Beginner Blacksmithing: Steel Hooks Workshop

2-4:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Fee applies — Create your own steel hooks and explore the art of blacksmithing with expert guidance.

Furman Paladins vs. East Tennessee State Buccaneers Basketball

7-9 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Cost varies — Cheer on the Furman Paladins as they take on the East Tennessee State Buccaneers in an exciting basketball showdown.