KNOXVILLE, TN — August 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM — The Knoxville Writers Guild proudly presents an evening with award-winning journalist J.J. Stambaugh, whose decades of fearless investigative reporting have shaped the public conversation around organized crime and corruption in East Tennessee. This free, in-person event will be held at Addison’s Bookstore, with donations gratefully accepted to support door prizes and future programming.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Stambaugh’s journalism has led to the resignation of a University of Tennessee president, the refunding of questionable campaign contributions by a Tennessee governor, and the exposure of corruption that unseated two county sheriffs. His presentation, titled “The Costs of Corruption,” will delve into the blurred lines between fiction and reality when it comes to organized crime and political misconduct. Stambaugh will explore how corruption weakens democracy, the crucial role of local journalism in combatting it, and how writers and storytellers can become agents of truth.

In an era where local news is in crisis and misinformation abounds, Stambaugh’s voice offers not only insight but a call to action.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Addison’s Bookstore, Knoxville, TN
🎟️ Cost: Free (donations welcomed for door prizes)

This event is open to the public. Seating is limited and early arrival is recommended. Members and non-members alike are invited to join this vital conversation about the intersection of truth, power, and storytelling.