Daily editionFriday, March 27th, 2026
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 27th of March.
Community
Two black Labradors from Rescue DOG – End of Life Sanctuary in Mountain City have moved to President Biden’s Delaware estate after months of abandonment.
The shelter follows its work to give shelter dogs a new chance, noting that former White House shelter dog Major led the way.
WFHGRead more
Education
Graduates at ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine learned their residency assignments on Thursday, Mar. 26 during Match Day.
All 88 students received placements & 31 will remain in Tennessee, with 14 matching at ETSU Health and 41 entering primary care.
WCYBRead more
Johnson City schools will follow new guidelines after an amended Senate bill requires in-person teaching — limiting digital device use and banning social media in elementary classes; the measure moves to the House in April to balance screen time with essential tech training for online tests.
WCYBRead more
Government
The Tennessee House Health Subcommittee approved a bill on Wednesday to end Ballad Health’s COPA agreement, shifting oversight from the Department of Health—ending mid-2028—to the state attorney general.
Lawmakers say the change will boost accountability and pave the way for more hospital competition.
WFHGRead more
Tennessee lawmakers are considering bills to lower the minimum age for school bus drivers from 25 to 23 amid a driver shortage — the proposals allow younger drivers to obtain a commercial license with a bus endorsement while school districts set higher local requirements, with changes taking effect July 1.
WFHGRead more
Johnson City Events
VMI Keydets at East Tennessee State Buccaneers Baseball Match
Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 2-5 p.m. — ETSU Thomas Stadium — Check the calendar for ticket details — Catch the thrilling college baseball clash between VMI and ETSU.
VMI vs East Tennessee State Baseball
Sunday, March 29th, 2026 · 1-4 p.m. — ETSU Thomas Stadium — Cost info not provided — Cheer on the VMI Keydets as they face the East Tennessee State Buccaneers in a spirited baseball showdown.
Johnson City Prayer Breakfast
Monday, March 30th, 2026 · 7:30-10:00 a.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Free entry — Unite in faith for a powerful morning of worship, prayer, and inspiration.
Blippi - Be Like Blippi Tour
Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Tickets from $39.50 — Experience an interactive adventure with Blippi and Meekah, inspiring kids to explore and discover through music and fun.
Mind the Drive, EyeCandy and Half Past Dead Live
Saturday, April 4th, 2026 · 9 PM – 12 AM — Capone's — Check the full calendar for ticket info — Experience a night filled with energetic performances from local bands.
Echoes Of Reverie And Light
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — $40 + fees — Experience a captivating musical journey featuring classical masterpieces and emerging talent.
Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 1-7 p.m. — Founders Park — Sample over 150 unique beers — Celebrate Tennessee Craft Beer Month at the 13th annual festival.