Good morning, Johnson City.

Tom Jervis, a 76-year-old Purple Heart recipient who served in Vietnam, faced multiple tragedies including the loss of his brother, son, and home from flood and fire—local charities helped him recover by providing a custom camper for his wheelchair and a dog house for his companion sarge.

The new student government executive team for the 2025/2026 academic year will be led by President Shelby Koerten, Vice President Taylor Laymon and Vice President for Finance and Administration Macy Miller—marking the first split-ticket exec team in years.

They plan to build on ongoing initiatives by updating the SGA website, expanding scholarship programs and working with marketing services to create a modern student app—aiming to enhance campus communication and resources.

ETSU announced plans to restructure its student centers after new state laws banned DEI offices at public institutions, leading to the Office of Equity and Inclusion ending operations—multicultural and pride centers will be reimagined as broader support hubs with student advisory groups. University officials confirmed that no staff will be laid off as the university adjusts to comply with state and federal rules.

ETSU has received $64.4 million in state money to improve its campus and boost student learning.

The funds will go to Brown Hall renovations at $53.4 million, campus upgrades at $5 million, building repairs at $3.5 million and new equipment for the Quillen College of Medicine at $3 million, with approval given on April 28.

Carol Lawler donated $1,023,500 to buy a new fire engine and equipment for Station 5 on Broyles Drive as approved by the Johnson City Commission — the largest donation in city history.

Fire Chief David Bell said the new engine will arrive in October to replace the nearly 20 year old truck — ensuring the fire department has updated equipment.

Ballad Health weighed in on the updated COPA agreement terms from the merger of Mountain States Health Alliance and Wellmont Health System.

The health system said the new scoring metrics—focusing on quality of care, charity care, and public input—are fair and that nurse turnover is now less than 13 percent, its best rate ever.

During the NFL Draft held from April 24 to 26, former ETSU player Alijah Huzzie—an ETSU standout—signed with the Houston Texans while Chandler Martin signed with the Baltimore Ravens.

Other players such as Sheldon Arnold III—who got a tryout with the Kansas City Chiefs—earned more pro chances as Quay Holmes joined the Toronto Argonauts and Nasir Player signed with the Memphis Showboats.

Today, ETSU baseball defeated VMI 9-2 to notch its 32nd win and improve to a 9-4 conference mark—timely hitting and strong relief pitching helped the team begin a five-game streak and reach 100 home runs this season—.

Following a Sunday doubleheader sweep and a 12-5 win over UNC Asheville, the Bucs will face Wofford and The Citadel before competing in the Southern Conference tournament starting May 21 in Greenville, South Carolina—local fans expect more strong play—.

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.

Travis Stevenson Comedy Show

9-10 p.m. — Wallace Theatre — Ticket prices not listed — Experience a night of fast-paced humor and social commentary with Travis Stevenson and his lineup of hilarious comics.

On-Site Tour at Everlan of Johnson City

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Everlan of Johnson City — Free entry — Explore the finest in senior living with a focus on exceptional care and dining.

Painter’s Choice Paint and Sip Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Wild Wing Cafe — $35 fee — Create your own masterpiece with step-by-step guidance while enjoying food and drinks.

Mobile Pantry Food Distribution

7:30-10 a.m. — (Former) City Commerce Solutions — Free entry — Offering fresh produce and dry goods to anyone in need, no questions asked.