Daily editionFriday, August 15th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of August.
Community
A new free music festival Jam-In J-C will take place on August 30 at King Commons Park with live acts including free yoga, acoustic music, bluegrass jam, and a garage punk set headlined by The Afternooners—Rotary Club of Johnson City will supply food trucks, vendors, and volunteers.
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A recent survey shows that residents are proud of Johnson City while urging improvements to manage growth, according to Vice Mayor Greg Cox.
Executive Director Brenda Whitson noted the tourism boom is drawing more visitors—prompting city leaders to use the feedback for future plans.
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Education
ETSU will temporarily house about 100 incoming freshmen in a local hotel while Stone Hall is being renovated—officials expect students to move back to campus by the end of September—and classes will resume on August 25.
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ETSU researchers at Gray Fossil Site uncovered 5 million year old white tailed deer fossils that include a juvenile skull and molars—marking the first recorded appearance of modern deer in Tennessee.
The team said the find gives new insights into Appalachian forests and the animal's long history.
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Government
The Johnson City Police Department held a roundtable on Thursday to explain the role of school resource officers (SROs) and share plans for new safety measures in local schools, including window laminate installation and a panic button system that triggers a lockdown.
Officials said the discussion aimed to inform community members about ongoing projects to enhance school security.
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Health
Today, Healing Hands Health celebrates a decade-long partnership with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry to train dental students and provide free or low-cost care to those in need in our region.
Over the past 10 years, 580 senior dental students have helped 16,000 patients and some now work in northeast Tennessee — proving the center’s lasting impact on community care.
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Johnson City Events
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.
2025 Tennessee State Pickleball Championships
Friday, September 5th, 2025 · 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Memorial Park Community Center — Registration fees apply — Compete for medals in various pickleball divisions across multiple skill levels.