Good morning, Johnson City.

August is Clear the Shelters Month and News 5 reporter Rebecca Pepin is highlighting animals in local shelters all week because many are full.

Holston Medical Group joined Optum Monday—part of UnitedHealth Group—to provide high quality local care.

HMG has over 200 providers at more than 70 locations in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

Deputies conducted 102 extra patrols downtown between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. last weekend and made 13 arrests for charges including public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and underage drinking after business owners met with Sheriff Sexton—who said the effort was not linked to the bar closing dispute.

Freddie Ray Skeens, 68, of Mountain City, was charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence after deputies responded to Bob Stanley's home where Stanley was fatally shot on Saturday—he is held on a $1 million bond and will appear in court today.

Andrew Johnson Elementary has been awarded $4,500 for a vegetable and fruit garden project — partnering with Keep Kingsport Beautiful.

The school will complete the project by winter or spring using a $3,500 donation from Whole Kids and $1,000 from Newman’s Own.

At a Tennessee Ethics Commission meeting Tuesday, the board dismissed a complaint against Carter County planning commissioner Gary Bailey and planning director Chris Schuettler due to lack of jurisdiction—while noting that Bailey had not filed the required disclosure for his interest in a controversial Hampton quarry—and county commissioners will consider Bailey's removal on August 18.

Meet the Mountains 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

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

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

8 AM – 5 PM — Appalachian Fair — Affordable entry — Celebrate agriculture with entertainment and educational activities in the scenic foothills of Tennessee.

Zac Top Live

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

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.

Beginner Blacksmithing: Steel Hooks

9:00-11:30 a.m. — The Inventor Center — Cost not specified — Create your own steel hooks while learning the art of blacksmithing with a seasoned expert.

Bladesmithing: Railroad Spike to Knife

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

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

12-2 p.m. — King Commons Park — Free entry — Celebrate local culture with music, food, and art at this vibrant outdoor festival.