☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies today with a high of 87°F and a low of 61°F. Just a 1% chance of rain — keep the umbrella at home.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City is adding a brand new aquatic center, debating a property tax hike, and fighting over a school board member — all at the same time. Somewhere downtown, someone is parking on a lot that’s actively being repaved, wondering why the lines look fresh.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Q: The name Blue Plum later lived on through one of Johnson City’s best-known downtown events. What was the festival called?
A: Blue Plum Festival, a long-running downtown celebration created by Friends of Olde Downtowne to bring people back to the heart of Johnson City.
🔝 Top Stories
Protesters Rally Against Keith Ervin’s Presence at Board of Education Meeting
Demonstrators gathered outside Thursday’s Washington County Board of Education meeting to protest the continued presence of censured school board member Keith Ervin. The protest follows Ervin’s censure for referring to a student as “hot” at a board of education meeting in April. The commission also voted no confidence in Ervin that same month, and Ervin maintains that his interaction with the student lacks context.
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Cranberries Restaurant Announces It Will Close June 12
Cranberries, a beloved Johnson City lunch spot known for its soups, salads, sandwiches, and quiche, has announced it will permanently close its doors on June 12. The restaurant has been established in Johnson City for over 20 years. The closure will mark the end of an era for one of downtown Johnson City’s most recognized dining destinations.
JC Residents Call for Spending Cuts to Avoid Tax Bump
Johnson City residents are speaking out against a proposed property tax increase, calling on commissioners to find spending cuts instead. The debate comes as the city’s budget — which includes funding for a proposed aquatic center — moves through its approval process. For the latest details on the budget discussion, visit the source link below.
Read more at Johnson City Press
Appalachia Service Project Opens New Volunteer and Training Center
The Appalachia Service Project recently opened a new Appalachian Highlands Volunteer and Training Center, expanding its capacity to support volunteer home repair work across the region. The opening marks a significant milestone for the organization, which has long been headquartered in Johnson City. Visit the links below for full details on the new facility.
Washington County Delays Harmony Property Sale Amid Community Backlash
Washington County has postponed a planned property sale involving the Harmony property following pushback from community members. The decision to delay came after residents raised concerns about the proposed transaction. For full details, see the source article.
Read more at Johnson City Press
New Bonnie Kate Marquee Lit for the Public on Friday Night
The Bonnie Kate theater in downtown Johnson City recently unveiled a new marquee, which was lit up for the public on Friday night as part of a First Friday celebration. The marquee is a visible addition to the downtown streetscape and signals continued investment in the historic venue. The Bonnie Kate is also currently presenting live performances of Steel Magnolias.
Read more at Johnson City Press
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 — Lucille Klement Band
The Fridays After 5 concert series is held in King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The June 12 concert features the Lucille Klement Band. FA5 concerts offer free, family-friendly fun bringing together residents and visitors for a live music experience.
Read more at johnsoncitytn.org
Fridays After 5 — The Maggie Valley Band
The Fridays After 5 concert series continues at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The June 19 concert features The Maggie Valley Band. Free and open to all ages.
Read more at johnsoncitytn.org
Fridays After 5 — Florencia and the Feeling
The Fridays After 5 summer concert series at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., runs Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The June 26 concert features Florencia and the Feeling. Free and family-friendly.
Read more at johnsoncitytn.org
TEDx Johnson City
TEDx Johnson City is coming up on June 26 — find yourself in Johnson City, Tennessee for this community ideas event. For tickets and full event details, visit the source link below.
Read more at visitjohnsoncitytn.com
Freedom Hall Civic Center Events — Summer Sessions
Upcoming events at Freedom Hall Civic Center (1320 Pactolas Rd) include sessions on June 19–21 (Friday–Sunday, English), June 26–28 (Friday–Sunday, Spanish), and July 10–12 (Friday–Sunday, English). An additional event is scheduled for the Auxiliary Gym from July 17 through August 1. Contact Freedom Hall at (423) 928-5131 for more information.
Read more at johnsoncitytn.org
🤝 Community Partners
