Daily editionThursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
Education
ETSU could receive $19.2 million for utility upgrades, $7 million for capital maintenance, and $2.5 million for improvements at the ETSU–Eastman Valleybrook location if the Governor’s proposed budget is approved.
The proposal also supports enhancements at its main campus and ETSU Health following Monday night’s State of the State address.
WFHGRead more
ETSU student Natalea Hillen is pursuing a pharmacy career—drawing on hands-on experience at a local pharmacy and a passion for helping others close to home.
The student plans to build a future focused on improving patient care.
WCYBRead more
The Appalachian Promise Alliance is offering free parenting classes for parents of children from birth to five.
The classes will be held soon at a community site and aim to provide guidance + support for early child development.
WCYBRead more
Government
ETSU professor Michelle Freeman-Alexander says the Big, Beautiful Bill makes tip income tax-free and allows only the overtime premium to be deducted until 2028—also removing tax on some car loan interests and boosting senior benefits; taxpayers should check W-2 boxes 7 and 14 or their year-end pay stub for details.
WCYBRead more
Health
More than 60 Milligan University staff and students were evacuated from the Lacy Fieldhouse on Wednesday after carbon monoxide exposure led to treatment at several Ballad Health hospitals, and officials pinpointed and stopped the leak.
WFHGRead more
Johnson City Events
Chattanooga Mocs vs. East Tennessee State Buccaneers Basketball
Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — $43+ — Catch an exciting college basketball matchup with budget-friendly tickets.
SuperBull Pro Bull Riding Event
Saturday, February 21st, 2026 · 8-10 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Registration closes Feb 18 — Experience the thrill of SEBRA Bull Riding & Ranch Bronc Riding in Johnson City.
Candlelight Concert Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Saturday, March 7th, 2026 · 8:45-9:44 p.m. — MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center — Get your tickets now and enjoy a magical evening of music under candlelight.