Daily editionWednesday, June 25th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 25th of June.
Community
Due to reaching capacity, Washington County-Johnson City Animal Shelter has suspended intake of animals—urging residents to adopt, foster, or donate funds and supplies until further notice.
WFHGRead more
Economy
BrightRidge’s board approved a 2.5% rate increase that will start in October and add about $4.40 a month to a typical customer’s bill.
The move will help offset revenue lost from closing industries as the company works to upgrade its electric grid.
WCYBRead more
Government
Northeast Tennessee residents whose homes were severely damaged by Helene will have until June 30 to apply for a state tax relief program that will provide 130% of their 2024 taxes and requires only legal ID, a W-9, and a deed.
Officials reported that just 47% of eligible homeowners applied after applications opened in February—leaving many at risk of missing this assistance.
WFHGRead more
State Representative Timothy Hill announced that a bridge on Lakeview Drive in Mountain City will be named for the late Sheriff Eddie Tester, who served from 2018 until his death in 2023, and a dedication ceremony is set for June 28 at 11 a.m. at the Johnson County Courthouse.
WFHGRead more
Carter County's budget committee recommended a fiscal 2026 budget that keeps the property tax rate at $2.18 per $100 of assessed value + set a total budget at about $84.1 million.
The budget proposal will be reviewed at a public hearing + final reading on June 30.
WFHGRead more
Sports
Bristol will host the MLB Speedway Classic on August 2nd with a new fan zone that includes a concert by country star Jake Owen + interactive MLB displays and family activities.
Officials are finalizing a regulation MLB field at the track in preparation for the first MLB game in Tennessee.
WFHGRead more
Bristol Motor Speedway announced on Tuesday that Jake Owen will join Tim McGraw and Pitbull for the Speedway Classic pregame concert and will headline a full day of concerts in the Fan Zone—additional activities include a Ferris wheel and a live MLB Network broadcast set.
The event will offer more fan activities later.
WCYBRead more
Johnson City Events
Popsicles in the Park
Friday, June 27th, 2025 · 12-3 p.m. — Rotary Park — Free entry — Enjoy a day of games, inflatables, and refreshing popsicles next to the splash pad.
Open House at 1402 Skyline Drive
Saturday, June 28th, 2025 · 1-3 p.m. — 1402 Skyline Dr, Johnson City, TN — Free entry — Explore a spacious and versatile home just minutes from local amenities.
Red, White & Paint Night
Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Wild Wing Cafe — $35 — Celebrate Independence Day with a fun paint and sip night led by a local artist.
Bristol State Liners vs. Danville Otterbots
Saturday, July 5th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — TVA Credit Union Stadium - Cardinal Park — Tickets available — Catch the exciting matchup between the Bristol State Liners and the Danville Otterbots.
Fridays After 5
Friday, July 11th, 2025 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — King Commons Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music and local flair in Downtown Johnson City’s vibrant summer concert series.
Beginner Blacksmithing: Steel Hooks Workshop
Saturday, July 12th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Cost info not provided — Forge unique steel hooks while exploring blacksmithing history and techniques with expert Brenden Bohannon.
Intermediate Blacksmithing: Forged Calla Lilies
Sunday, July 13th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Prerequisite skills required — Learn to forge beautiful Calla lilies from bar stock in this hands-on intermediate class.
Some Old Friends - Tuesday Tunes
Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 · 5:30-7 p.m. — The Philosopher's House — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of musical nostalgia with friends in a cozy venue.
Johnson City Doughboys vs. Kingsport Axmen
Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — TVA Credit Union Stadium — Check website for price — Catch an exciting baseball showdown with local teams in Johnson City.