Daily editionWednesday, August 20th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 20th of August.
Community
At the 99th Appalachian Fair, long-time food vendors like the Rotary Club and Gray Ruritan serve treats — with all proceeds funding community scholarships and local projects — to help support residents.
WCYBRead more
Education
ETSU will soon open two new dining locations on campus today—Jimmy John’s inside the Buc Mart at the D.P. Culp Student Center serving lunch and dinner and Blended Pedaler in the Treehouse offering acai bowls and smoothies—giving students fresh options, while campus eateries already accept meal swipes and mobile ordering will soon simplify food service.
The East TennesseanRead more
Milligan University announced Monday that it will no longer accept new students in film, journalism, computer science, cyber security, information systems and the Master of Arts in Coaching and Sports Management starting this fall—current students already enrolled can complete their degrees. Enrollment challenges and market changes led to the decision.
WFHGRead more
Today, ETSU’s Office of New Student and Family Programs eases the transition for new students and families with the Preview event—designed to build community and answer questions—with plans for Family Weekend and a Pride Walk painting later.
Director Tyler Parker said the office helps students from housing to immunizations to make college life smoother.
The East TennesseanRead more
ETSU begins its new school year with the largest freshman class on record and major campus upgrades as President Noland announced the complete renovation of Powell Hall, upcoming work on Yoakley Hall and a new health sciences building, and the removal of the ETSC smokestack—students should expect some construction delays during the transition. New student centers will also provide vital support for academic and personal success.
The East TennesseanRead more
Government
Local governments have borrowed tens of millions to pay for Helene recovery while they wait for FEMA to send reimbursement funds.
Johnson County has taken a $10 million loan for road repairs while Washington County has borrowed nearly $75 million—officials say no reimbursements have come in yet.
WCYBRead more
Johnson City Events
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.
Soggy Doggy: Dog Swim
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 · 10 a.m.–3 p.m. — Legion Street Pool — $5 per dog (2 dogs per handler) — Let your pups dive into a splash party with toys and fun at this dog-only swim event.
Sorghum Festival and Breakfast
Saturday, September 13th, 2025 · 8 a.m.–4 p.m. — Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site — $10 with breakfast, $6 without — Experience traditional sorghum making, enjoy local music, and savor a delicious biscuit and gravy breakfast.
Pierre Bensusan Concert
Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 7:30 PM – 1:30 AM — Down Home — Tickets required — Experience the extraordinary guitar mastery of Pierre Bensusan bringing his unique sound to Johnson City.
Date Night in the Flower Field
Thursday, September 18th, 2025 · 6-8 p.m. — Harvey Family Farm — $75 per couple — Enjoy an intimate evening surrounded by blooms with a charcuterie spread and bouquet-picking experience.