Good morning, Johnson City.

A Jonesborough man named Christopher Brian Jones was sentenced earlier this month to 33 years in prison—he must serve at least 26 years—for second-degree murder in connection with the fentanyl overdose death of Isaiah Beatty in 2021.

East Tennessee State University will begin improvements on Brown Hall—the science building for its curriculum—on the Johnson City campus using $48 million from the approved 2025 to 2026 state budget.

The funding also includes $5 million for updates at the Quillen College of Medicine and $2.3 million for maintenance on other buildings.

Washington County commissioners voted Monday night to borrow $75 million for Helene recovery projects.

The funds will pay for bridges, flood mitigation and county repairs — FEMA funding will reimburse most costs and state grants are expected to cover the remaining 5%.

Tennessee's state budget includes an extra $30 million for Helene recovery projects in Unicoi County—$20 million to fix Erwin’s wastewater treatment plant and $10 million to rebuild Unicoi County Hospital.

Erwin Utilities warned that without this help, water bills might be raised as equipment failures continue from silt and water damage.

Thirsty Orange Beer Festival

1-6 p.m. — Founders Park — $ — Sample over 150 unique beers and enjoy local craft brews at the 12th annual Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza.

Paint and Sip Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Wild Wing Cafe — $35 — Unleash your creativity while enjoying a fun night of painting and sipping wine.

Repticon Johnson City 2025

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Holiday Inn Johnson City — Admission varies — Explore a dedicated reptile trade show featuring exotic pets, supplies, and more.

Intermediate Blacksmithing: Forged Calla Lilies

1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Prerequisite required — Learn to forge beautiful Calla lilies in this intermediate blacksmithing workshop.