Daily editionFriday, August 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of August.
Community
The Unicoi County Long Term Recovery Group hosted a job fair for residents affected by floods so they could access employment resources and meet potential employers—Erwin resident Charles Pleasant secured a tax preparer job after years as a machinist.
Organizers said they plan another fair by the end of the year.
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Culture
Today at the Appalachian Fair, visitors can ride carnival rides, attend concerts and explore a museum showcasing antiques and artifacts of our region—displaying old buggies, vintage vehicles and live craft demonstrations by local artisans.
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Education
Science Hill High School was ranked 18th among Tennessee schools and 1,050th nationally—showing high proficiency in math, science and reading.
The school plans to improve its ranking by expanding career development and college prep courses.
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Universities in the Tri-Cities reported record freshman enrollment despite a national decline, with ETSU welcoming over 2,200 new students and Milligan University also seeing a strong incoming class.
ETSU President Brian Noland credited improved health sciences programs and affordable tuition for the surge—factors that bolster local higher education.
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Government
The Johnson City Coalition Against Bitcoin Mining met at the Johnson City Public Library today to plan research on noise and environmental issues from bitcoin mines—working with a University of Tennessee group to address local legal questions.
The group will hold its next community meeting on September 16 at 7 p.m. to gather public input for potential new regulations.
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The Johnson City city commission passed an ordinance to cut alcohol sales from 3 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Thursday with a vote of 4—1, as Commissioner Anthony Fowler opposed it.
The new rule will be published in local papers and take effect in about two weeks while sheriff patrols continue.
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Health
A former SOFHA doctor, Dr. James Joslyn, told News 5 he received a letter—saying he owed over $356,000 as extra fees and lost bonuses hurt his pay.
Thirteen physicians submitted non-renewal notices ahead of the September 30 contract end and are negotiating to keep offering care to patients in Kingsport and Gate City.
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Accidents
A tow truck failed to yield to a tractor-trailer on Highway 11 E near Creasy Creek Road in Washington County Thursday morning+ the driver was charged while no injuries were reported.
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Johnson City Events
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.
Laniidae Live Concert
Saturday, September 20th, 2025 · 9-10:30 p.m. — Capone's — Ticket info not specified — Experience an incredible night of music featuring Laniidae, Mind the Drive, and The Dirty Secrets.