Daily editionSaturday, August 9th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 9th of August.
Government
Johnson City will review a $1.1 million offer for 2.5 acres near Publix on Novus Drive, where Neal Patel of Vintage Hotel Group plans a hotel development.
If approved, Patel will pay $20,000 earnest money + complete a 120-day due diligence period before commissioners hold three ordinance readings on the property conveyance.
WFHGRead more
The Johnson City Commission approved an ordinance on second reading Thursday night that could allow alcohol sales after 1 a.m.—the measure now awaits a third reading vote for final approval.
City leaders said the change addresses downtown safety concerns and may include extending last call to 2 a.m. if the sheriff’s office recommends more patrols.
WFHGRead more
Gov. Bill Lee announced Friday that Tennessee sought a federal waiver to restrict SNAP benefits from buying sugary foods and sodas—this waiver would ban purchases of items with high levels of added sugars while still allowing hot prepared items such as grilled chicken.
The proposal joined similar efforts by 12 states to improve health outcomes for low-income families.
WCYBRead more
Sports
Henderson Motorsports will honor team owner Debbie Henderson-Creasy’s father by posting his name above the driver’s window during today’s Mission 200 race at Watkins Glen International.
The team, which has raced in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for decades, said that Charlie—who passed away in June at 88—was always a part of the family effort and that Creasy and her brother will continue running the pit operations in Abingdon.
WFHGRead more
Johnson City Events
Meet the Mountains 2025
Friday, August 15th, 2025 · 5-11 p.m. — Kinch Landing, Winged Deer Park — Free entry — Explore kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and biking in stunning Northeast Tennessee.
Repticon Johnson City 2025
Saturday, August 16th, 2025 · 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Holiday Inn Johnson City — Entry Fee Applicable — Explore reptiles and exotic pet supplies at this dedicated trade show.
12th Annual Little Ironman Tribute Race
Sunday, August 17th, 2025 · 7-9 p.m. — Sulphur Springs Baptist Church — $25+ — Celebrate the legacy of Josh “Little Ironman” Adcock with a thrilling 5K, Fun Walk, and Mud Run in support of local families in need.
Appalachian Fair
Monday, August 18th, 2025 · 8 AM – 5 PM — Appalachian Fair — Affordable entry — Celebrate agriculture with entertainment and educational activities in the scenic foothills of Tennessee.
Zac Top Live
Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 · 8-10 p.m. — Appalachian Fair — Gate admission required — Enjoy a night of country vibes with Zac Top as he performs his new single ‘Cold Beer and Country Music’.
Pasta-bilities Workshop
Thursday, August 21st, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Shakti in the Mountains — $15 per person — Discover the joys of making fresh handmade pasta with garden-fresh ingredients in a demonstration-style workshop.
SPANKthe80s Tribute Concert
Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 · 7:30-9 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Experience the ultimate 80's throwback with high-energy hits and vibrant performances.
Bladesmithing: Railroad Spike to Knife
Sunday, August 24th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Registration required — Get hands-on experience forging a knife from a railroad spike while learning about blacksmithing techniques.
Spirits of the Carnival
Thursday, August 28th, 2025 · 6-9 p.m. — Tennessee Hills Brewstillery — Ticket required — Craft unique cocktails inspired by fairground flavors with charcuterie in a festive atmosphere.
Jam in JC 2025
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 · 12-2 p.m. — King Commons Park — Free entry — Celebrate local culture with music, food, and art at this vibrant outdoor festival.