Daily editionSaturday, November 8th, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 8th of November.
Community
The Heritage Heals Community Free Fridge and Pantry opened behind Frannie's Vegan Café across from Aldis in Johnson City and is stocked with donated perishables, fresh produce, and baby items available 24/7.
Organizers plan to add more fridges to reduce food waste — they aim to fight food insecurity amid reduced SNAP benefits.
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Government
County mayors, state emergency officials, and nonprofit leaders met at Summit Leadership in Johnson City to review Helene recovery progress and plan for future disaster preparedness—discussing the need for funding, skilled workers, and coordinated response efforts; they also announced a new group to unite disaster aid under one umbrella.
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Residents on the border of Blountville worry as the Tri-Cities Airport Quarry, owned by Martin Marietta Materials, blasts at 2 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday, shaking homes in a neighborhood where residents range from new arrivals to long-time homeowners; the company seeks an expansion that will be reviewed in a public hearing with a community meeting Monday, Nov. 10 (7 p.m.) at Wheeler United Methodist Church.
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Tri Cities Airport says its workforce is fully operational but warns that low staffing and reduced airspace will likely delay or cancel some Tennessee flights to hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Dallas later this week—FAA cuts by 10 percent due to the government shutdown have led some air traffic controllers to work without a paycheck to keep flights safe.
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Health
Veteran Jeffrey Weems will receive a $50,000 dental restoration at no cost through the Smile for Veterans program provided by the Regional Center for Dental Implants—this is the third year oral surgeon Dr. Matthew Sherban has offered his services to a veteran in need.
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Johnson City Events
Ricky Melton Live Comedy Show
Friday, November 14th, 2025 · 8-9 p.m. — Wallace Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the humor of Ricky Melton, a rising star in the comedy scene blending styles of iconic comedians.
Mobile Pantry Food Distribution
Saturday, November 15th, 2025 · 8:30-10 a.m. — Citi Solutions Center — No registration required — Offering fresh produce and dry goods to anyone in need, no questions asked.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Wednesday, November 19th, 2025 · 7:30-10:30 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Cost TBD — Experience the quirkiness and competition of a spelling bee in a lively and engaging environment.
Repticon Show - Johnson City, TN
Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 · 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Holiday Inn Johnson City by IHG — Admission fee varies — Explore a vibrant marketplace for reptile and exotic pet lovers with a range of supplies and merchandise.
ETSU vs Central Arkansas Men's Basketball Game
Saturday, November 29th, 2025 · 5-7:30 p.m. — Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena — Check online for ticket pricing — Catch the exciting matchup between ETSU and Central Arkansas in a thrilling basketball showdown.
Glory Shone Around Holiday Concert
Saturday, December 6th, 2025 · 4-10 p.m. — ETSU Martin Center for the Arts — Ticketed event — Celebrate the holiday season with a mix of classic and contemporary music performed by a large ensemble of student and faculty musicians.
Jolabokaflod Celebration
Sunday, December 7th, 2025 · 3-5 p.m. — Shakti in the Mountains — $15 — Celebrate the joyful tradition of exchanging books and chocolate with cozy crafts and community spirit.