Ballad Health Credit Rating

Moody’s Investors Service has announced it has upgraded the credit rating for Ballad Health to A3 from Baa1, the highest rating by Ballad Health or its predecessor organizations by Moody’s.This upgrade follows a recent report by Fitch Credit Ratings affirming Ballad Health’s “A” rating.“Ballad Health’s governance considerations continue to be favorable with a tenured management … Read more

Sullivan County Murder Suspect

The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a suspect in a murder investigation, according to a release.Investigators were informed of a murder that occurred at a home in the 400 block of Hooven Street in Kingsport and identified Emmet Daniel Kimberlin, 33, of Kingsport, as a suspect.The release states Kimberlin is believed to be … Read more

Boutique Opens

there’s a new place to shop in the Mall at Johnson City. Family-owned and Tennessee-based boutique Ali B’s held a ribbon cutting on Thursday to celebrate their grand opening.According to a release, this is the first brick and mortar location for the store.“We are elated that Ali B’s Boutique chose The Mall at Johnson City … Read more

Blue Plum Hosted Events

Four local organizations are receiving $5,000 to host art, music and wellness activities in downtown Johnson City this June.The Blue Plum Organization chose these recipients of their new Blue Plum Gives Back Event Grant:The Down Home for a one-day music event on either June 25 or June 26Downtown Yoga Center for a yoga festival on … Read more

Northam Signs More Bills

Gov. Ralph Northam has announced that he’s signed another 14 bills into law. Among the bills he signed incude extending eviction protections for renters experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic through July 1, 2022. And, prohibiting public colleges and universities from asking about a person’s criminal record during the application process, as well … Read more

Kingsport Speedway Reschedules

Kingsport Speedway has rescheduled the NASCAR Advance Auto Weekly Racing Series for Friday, April 16.A release from the racing venue says the race-car engines are water-cooled. This means running them at cold temperatures increases the likelihood of damage.“We have been working very hard and it is very disappointing to us as we work all winter … Read more

Bristol Rhythm And Roots Line-Up

The Birthplace of Country Music has announced the talent lineup for the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion in September 2021.Some of the musicians set to perform at the event scheduled for September 10-12 include Jason Isabell and The 400 Unit, Tanya Tucker and Blackberry Smoke.The festival plans to host about 100 bands for the three-day … Read more

Bristol Police Chief Retiring

Bristol, Tennessee Police Chief Blaine Wade has announced his retirement after 37 years in public service.According to a release from the Bristol Tennessee Police Department, Wade’s final day on the job will be June 18, 2021. He has served as chief since 2004.Wade’s career in law enforcement began when he joined the Bristol Tennessee Police … Read more

Sullivan County Extends Mask Mandate

The mask mandate in Sullivan County set to expire Wednesday was extended until April 30.Sullivan County Mayor Richard Venable and Medical Director Dr. Stephen May have extended the Order for the public and businesses to continue to wear face coverings until April 30, 2021 or until rescinded.The announcement came in a release Wednesday afternoon, hours … Read more

Chipotle Opens

The Tri-Cities’ first Chipotle restaurant opened Wednesday near the Mall at Johnson City.A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday morning. The Chipotle at this location features the “Chipot-lane,” a drive-through option for customers to pick up orders from the application.While it brings a new dining experience, local leaders are also excited about the new jobs it … Read more