☀️ Today’s Weather
Overcast skies with a high of 92°F and a low of 68°F. 20% chance of rain — keep an umbrella handy just in case.
😄 Only in Johnson City
The Tri-Cities Airport main runway is closed due to a sinkhole, a new naloxone box just went up downtown, and Raising Cane’s finally has an opening date. Johnson City somehow manages to have infrastructure drama, public health news, and a fast food announcement all before lunch on a Tuesday.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Question: ETSU’s sports teams sail under what nickname?
Answer at the bottom of today’s newsletter.
🔝 Top Stories
Data Center Zoning Rules Approved by Johnson City Planning Commission
The Johnson City Regional Planning Commission approved new zoning regulations for data centers in a 4-2 vote Tuesday night. The rules include a requirement that data centers be at least 200 feet from any residential property line — a provision that drew concern from some residents who feel the setback doesn’t go far enough. The proposed rules, along with a separate noise and vibration ordinance, will now move to the full Johnson City Commission for three votes, tentatively scheduled for August and September.
Sponsored by
Frazier Plumbing
Got a leaky pipe, a water heater on its last legs, or a drain that’s given up? Frazier Plumbing has been solving plumbing problems for Tri-Cities homeowners since 1980 — family-owned, locally operated, and available 24/7 when things go wrong at the worst possible time. No runaround, no oversized crews. Just experienced local plumbers who show up and fix it right.
Tri-Cities Airport Main Runway Shut Down After Sinkhole Discovered
A sinkhole has forced the closure of the main runway at Tri-Cities Airport, with flights affected as a result. Repairs are expected to take some time, and travelers are encouraged to check with their airlines for the latest flight status updates.
Raising Cane’s Sets July 7 Opening Date, Looking to Hire 140
Johnson City’s first Raising Cane’s location has officially set its opening date for July 7. The company is actively looking to hire around 140 employees ahead of the opening. The new restaurant is located on North Roan Street at the former Toys “R” Us site.
Free Naloxone Box Installed in Downtown Johnson City
A free naloxone distribution box has been installed in downtown Johnson City, providing anonymous, around-the-clock access to the overdose-reversing medication. ETSU Health officials are connected to the initiative, which aims to make the life-saving resource more accessible to the community.
Animal Shelter Hosting ‘Very Important Pet’ Adoption Event
The Washington County–Johnson City Animal Shelter is hosting a special “Very Important Pet” adoption event, giving local residents a chance to open their homes to animals in need. Those interested in adopting are encouraged to visit the shelter and meet the available pets.
🏪 Local Business Spotlight
Backstage Dancewear
How did Backstage Dancewear get started?
I started working at a dancewear store in Pennsylvania when I was 15. Not even a year later I moved to Jonesborough, and I always dreamed of opening a store here in the Tri-Cities. In 2011 I got that opportunity. I took a hiatus from 2016 to 2022 to raise my daughter, then opened back up because I missed it too much to stay away. This is truly a small business — no big loans or grants, just a dream I’ve been building for a long time.
What do you carry that dancers can’t easily find anywhere else locally?
The big box stores try to cater to dancers, but there are so many things studios require that those stores aren’t permitted to carry per the brands themselves. My customer base isn’t limited to dancers either — I serve all types of performers and entertainers. If I don’t have what you need, I do everything in my power to get it as quickly as possible.
What do you want parents and performers to know about shopping with you versus ordering online?
You get a personal experience. I hear it all the time — customers order online and what arrives is too big or too small. Here you can try it on and get the right fit. I have customers who come from five minutes away and some who drive four hours. That says a lot.
Find Backstage Dancewear at backstagedanceweartn.square.site.
📅 Upcoming Events
Fridays After 5 – Summer Concert Series
Downtown Johnson City’s free outdoor concert series returns every Friday evening in June and July. Concerts are held at King Commons, 112 N. Commerce St., from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The series is family-friendly and free to attend.
More info at Downtown Johnson City
Chamber Breakfast – Johnson City Area Chamber of Commerce
The Johnson City Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a breakfast event on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 from 7:00–9:00 a.m. at the Carnegie Hotel, 1216 W. State of Franklin Rd., Johnson City. Registration is required — contact the Chamber for details.
More info at the Johnson City Chamber
Business After Hours with Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards
The Johnson City Chamber and regional Chamber partners are hosting a Business After Hours networking event at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 4:00–6:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided and all guests receive one complimentary drink ticket to sample locally grown and produced wines. Registration is required.
Register and learn more at the Johnson City Chamber
Freedom Hall Civic Center – Upcoming Events
Freedom Hall Civic Center at 1320 Pactolas Rd. has several upcoming events on the schedule, including events on June 19–21 and June 26–28, 2026, as well as July 10–12. Visit the Freedom Hall website or call (423) 928-5131 for full event details and information.
More info at johnsoncitytn.org
🤝 Community Partners
🧠 Trivia Answer
Buccaneers, a pirate-themed nickname that has been associated with ETSU athletics for decades.