Daily editionSaturday, June 21st, 2025
Good morning, Johnson City.
The Daily Johnson City Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of June.
Business
Kroger announced Friday that its Kingsport and Abingdon stores will close on September 19 — this move is part of a plan to close 60 stores over the next 18 months, according to UFCW Local 400 which represents the workers.
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Kroger announced plans to close its Bristol and Kingsport stores—part of a 60-location shutdown set for September 19—after owners deemed them underperforming; United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local 400 said the closures may reduce a vital food source for rural communities.
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Education
The Washington County Board of Education approved measures on Thursday night to address a multi-million dollar funding gap by delaying teacher raises, reducing planned increases in the maintenance budget, and using its fund balance for the next fiscal year.
These steps postpone the planned incremental salary increases needed to meet a state mandate of a $50,000 minimum for teachers by 2026 after county commissioners approved a budget without the extra funding.
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Health
Food City continued its long-time support of Niswonger Children's Hospital on Friday by presenting a check for $23,500—funding both hospital programs and Ballad Health's breast cancer screening initiatives.
WCYBRead more
Local health officials warned that the Tri-Cities will face a heatwave with temperatures expected to hit the upper 90s, urging residents to stay hydrated and in the shade while vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and those without air conditioning monitor their symptoms—community groups are setting up cooling centers to offer relief.
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Accidents
After heavy rain triggered a rockslide that flooded I-40 near Exit 451 in Cocke County on June 18, TDOT said crews are clearing debris and making repairs while the road will remain closed for at least two weeks—drivers are using detour routes.
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Johnson City Events
Open House: Beautiful Family Home
Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 · 2-4 p.m. — 3424 Berkshire Cir — Free entry — Explore a meticulously maintained 3-bedroom home perfect for family living in a desirable neighborhood.
Bristol State Liners vs. Johnson City Doughboys
Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — TVA Credit Union Stadium - Cardinal Park — Competitive pricing — Catch an exciting baseball game between local favorites.
Popsicles in the Park
Friday, June 27th, 2025 · 12-3 p.m. — Rotary Park — Free entry — Enjoy a day of games, inflatables, and refreshing popsicles next to the splash pad.
Open House at 1402 Skyline Drive
Saturday, June 28th, 2025 · 1-3 p.m. — 1402 Skyline Dr, Johnson City, TN — Free entry — Explore a spacious and versatile home just minutes from local amenities.
Red, White & Paint Night
Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Wild Wing Cafe — $35 — Celebrate Independence Day with a fun paint and sip night led by a local artist.
Bristol State Liners vs. Danville Otterbots
Saturday, July 5th, 2025 · 7-10 p.m. — TVA Credit Union Stadium - Cardinal Park — Tickets available — Catch the exciting matchup between the Bristol State Liners and the Danville Otterbots.
Fridays After 5
Friday, July 11th, 2025 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — King Commons Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music and local flair in Downtown Johnson City’s vibrant summer concert series.
Beginner Blacksmithing: Steel Hooks Workshop
Saturday, July 12th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Cost info not provided — Forge unique steel hooks while exploring blacksmithing history and techniques with expert Brenden Bohannon.
Intermediate Blacksmithing: Forged Calla Lilies
Sunday, July 13th, 2025 · 1-3:30 p.m. — The Inventor Center — Prerequisite skills required — Learn to forge beautiful Calla lilies from bar stock in this hands-on intermediate class.