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Daily editionTuesday, February 24th, 2026

Good morning, Johnson City.

The Daily Johnson City Team

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Here’s your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 24th of February.

Community

  1. On Monday, Feb. 23, the Sullivan County Animal Shelter and Sheriff’s Office launched (Operation SafePet) to equip first responders with microchip scanners for quickly reuniting lost pets with their owners and reducing shelter overcrowding; they also offer free microchipping to the public.

    WCYBRead more

Culture

  1. Reece Museum is hosting Wonderlands, a photography exhibit that explores Appalachian landscapes and cultural heritage through inspiring photos + curated artifacts until May 22.

    The exhibit, created by Tema Stauffer, connects visitors with the rich identity of our region.

    The East TennesseanRead more

  2. The legend of the rhododendron in East Tennessee is shared today as Cherokee lore explains the flower turned red from ancient battles and may bring good luck to a home.

    A rodent festival celebrating the resilient bloom is held annually on Roan Mountain (in Bakersville) to honor its enduring charm.

    The East TennesseanRead more

Economy

  1. Sullivan County industrial developers received a $2.6 million grant that includes $100,000 for a land survey along Airport Parkway at the Northeast Tennessee Business Park and $2.5 million to ready a site on Highway 394 at Bristol South Industrial Park.

    The funds will support upgrades for future business development.

    WCYBRead more

Education

  1. ETSU’s second Construction Summit is set for Friday, Feb. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at ETSU and will feature industry leaders and faculty who will discuss construction market conditions, workforce challenges, and AI use.

    Students can attend free and network for future opportunities.

    The East TennesseanRead more

  2. ETSU has secured a five-year federal grant to launch its Summer Undergraduate Addiction Research Training Program in Central Appalachia.

    Ten students will train and get a $4,500 stipend, housing, and up to $1,400 for research expenses (the 12-week program runs May 18 to Aug. 7 with applications due by March 20).

    The East TennesseanRead more

  3. East Tennessee State University’s Sherrod Library is hosting a podcasting workshop on Feb. 25 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Innovation Commons (teaching basic editing and recording skills) as part of the campus common read celebrating John Green’s book 'The Anthropocene Reviewed.'

    The East TennesseanRead more

  4. Local school systems in Unicoi, Sullivan, and Washington counties are choosing between virtual learning or cancelled classes amid heavy snow — officials say safety guides the decision as built-in snow days have been largely used.

    WCYBRead more

  5. Rotary Readers program visited Mountain View Elementary on Tuesday, Feb. 24 & brought local volunteers who read with students to spark interest in literature and promote literacy.

    WCYBRead more

  6. The Robertson Center held a Values Discovery Workshop on Feb. 23 at 6 p.m. to guide ETSU students in examining 125 values and identifying their core beliefs, and additional workshops on career planning and self-advocacy are scheduled for later.

    The East TennesseanRead more

Government

  1. Washington County commissioners have allotted the final Baby Doe settlement dollars, with over $4 million going to seven recovery programs including a center in Johnson City - officials say the funds fill gaps in housing and treatment while future funding remains uncertain.

    WCYBRead more

Health

  1. Blake Musick of Life Well Pharmacy said PBMs drive pricing challenges after his former workplace faced a buyout.

    The Senate Health and Welfare Committee will hear the FAIR Rx Act on Wednesday (which would bar PBMs from owning local pharmacies) as CVS reps plan to oppose it Tuesday.

    WCYBRead more

Sports

  1. ETSU baseball beat Sacred Heart 10-0 on Friday, Feb. 21 with solid pitching and timely home runs, and will play Appalachian State today at Thomas Stadium — boosting their 4-1 season record.

    The East TennesseanRead more

  2. ETSU hosted a softball tournament at Betty Basler Field from Feb. 20-22 where it played Bowling Green and Tennessee State — the Buccaneers went 3-1 with a 5-2 loss, a 17-0 mercy-rule win, and two close victories before Sunday's game was cancelled due to weather.

    The East TennesseanRead more