Good morning, Johnson City.

ETSU Elevates hosted a pitch competition where students presented projects to address social, economic and environmental challenges in the community.

Winners were awarded extra funding, with Aliyah Smith-Gomis securing $3,000 for Project Manna—a program to connect Black farmers and mothers and expand free healthy food access in Appalachia.

Acoustic Autumn brings free concerts every Thursday in October to Founders Park Amphitheater in downtown Johnson City, featuring local talent such as Thomas Cassell on Oct.

2, Madi Foster on Oct. 9 for ETSU Night, Dan Trull on Oct. 16, Trevin Sluss on Oct. 23, and Seth Thomas on Oct. 30. ETSU sponsors the Oct. 9 show—encouraging fans to dress in blue and gold as part of Founders Week celebrations.

Highlands Horrorfest returns this Saturday at the Jackson Theatre in Jonesborough, featuring short-horror film screenings starting at 7 p.m.—a costume contest will take place during intermission and the evening will conclude with an awards presentation offering a $1,000 grand prize.

Dr. Rick Cary led a gallery talk Monday, Oct.

6 at ETSU’s Reece Museum where he discussed the art and ministry of the late Rev. Jimmy Morrow from Del Rio, Tennessee. He explained how Morrow used art to share his faith with people beyond his small town—linking his work with Appalachian culture.

The Reece Museum on ETSU’s main campus received reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums—placing it among fewer than 1,200 accredited museums nationwide.

The museum will continue offering art shows, exhibitions, and storytelling that honor Appalachian heritage.

ETSU held a memorial ceremony at the Carillon bell tower on Oct.

7 when seven bell chimes rang at 10:11 a.m. to honor three students, two faculty and two staff who died between July 2024 and June 2025 — family and friends gathered to remember their lives and lasting impact.

ETSU is asking volunteers to honor the legacy of Dr. Chris Dula—a beloved psychology professor who died from brain cancer—by joining Dula Day, a service event planned during homecoming week that also supports hurricane relief efforts.

Washington County officials announced that the Tennessee Department of Transportation has authorized the county to start accepting bids for a new bridge on Telford Road—named the Telford Bridge—that crosses Brown Branch and was closed in April after an inspection.

The county expects to receive bids later this month and will begin construction soon.

ETSU women’s soccer delivered a commanding win against Wofford on Thursday night—raising their season record to 8-2-3 and keeping them undefeated in SoCon play.

The team will travel to Greenville today to face Furman as they aim for the conference title.

College Football: ETSU Buccaneers vs. VMI Keydets

3:30-5 p.m. — William B. Greene Jr. Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Buccaneers take on the Keydets in an exciting Southern Conference football showdown.

Tennessee Veterans Festival

1-7 p.m. — Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site — $10.00 per person — Celebrate veteran culture with art, music, and a bustling crafts village.

Blue Ridge Artisan Days: Autumn Market & Craft Fair

3-7 p.m. — Appalachian Fair — Free entry — Celebrate fall with unique handmade goods, warm treats, and festive vibes for the whole family.

Johnson City Zine Fest 9

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — 324 E Main St, Johnson City, TN — Free entry — Explore the creativity of over 40 zinesters and their unique artwork.

Scarecrow Skedaddle & Shindig

1:45-4 p.m. — ETSU/Ballad Health Athletic Center — Event entry fee applies — Enjoy a festive family celebration with races, games, and fall fun.

Wake Forest vs East Tennessee State Basketball Exhibition

7-8:30 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Charity event — Enjoy an exciting exhibition match while supporting local charities.

The JackTown Ramblers Live Show

6-10 p.m. — Boones Creek Historical Trust Museum and Opry — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of Bluegrass music and comedy from The JackTown Ramblers.

Elf The Musical

7:00 – 8:30 PM — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Tickets available — Experience a live adaptation of the holiday classic with dazzling stage effects and festive cheer.

Elf The Musical

7-8:30 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the magic of the beloved holiday film transformed into a spectacular live theater event.

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Cost Info — Celebrate the timeless music of ABBA in a fun and nostalgic tribute concert.