𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 Friday, Tri-Cities!

June is here, and the Tri-Cities are easing into summer with neighborhood events, live music, lake days, trail time, downtown strolls, local food finds, and community updates worth knowing.

In today’s edition, we’re helping you plan the week, keep up with local changes, and find easy ways to enjoy Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, the Appalachian Highlands, and the wider Northeast Tennessee region.

New to the area? We’re glad you’re here.

Johnson City Medical Center is set to begin construction on its emergency department expansion, leading to temporary access changes for patients and visitors.

The project, managed by Ballad Health, will roll out in several phases, starting from summer through fall 2026.

During construction, parking areas, hospital entrances, walkways, and traffic patterns across the campus will shift to accommodate work zones.

This expansion supports one of Northeast Tennessee’s busiest hospitals, serving Johnson City, Washington County, and neighboring communities.

All visitors are encouraged to allow extra time, watch for new parking instructions, and check for posted signs or guidance from hospital staff.

Johnson City Medical Center will update the public as changes occur, helping ensure safety and smooth access during this period of growth.

Regas Bros Seasoning

Bristol-area residents are being invited to influence the future of local transportation as the Bristol Metropolitan Planning Organization updates its Long-Range Transportation Plan.

This 20-year roadmap will shape decisions on road projects, transit options, bike and walking routes, freight movement, and infrastructure investments across the region.

Community voices will help identify current challenges and set priorities, ensuring investments match real needs and daily commuting patterns.

For drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, the plan could mean safer streets, improved intersection upgrades, new trails, and better connections between neighborhoods, schools, and businesses.

City officials urge local input from commuters, business owners, and transit riders.

Feedback is vital for anyone who relies on Bristol’s roads, public transport, or wants safer, more accessible routes.

Together, residents can help shape a smarter, more connected Bristol for years to come.

Johnson City Fire Department Offers Free Hands-Only CPR Class

Johnson City residents have an opportunity to learn a simple, potentially lifesaving skill this summer through a free hands-only CPR class offered by the Johnson City Fire Department.

Enrollment is now open for the class, which will be held Wednesday, July 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the JCFD Training Facility on West Walnut Street. The session is designed to teach participants how to respond quickly and confidently during a cardiac emergency before professional help arrives.

Hands-only CPR focuses on chest compressions without rescue breaths, making it easier to learn and remember for people who may not have formal medical training. The training can be especially useful for parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches, church volunteers, workplace teams, and anyone who wants to be better prepared in an emergency.

Because cardiac emergencies can happen at home, at work, at school, or in public spaces, knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a meaningful difference. The class gives residents a practical way to build confidence and learn what steps to take while waiting for emergency responders.

The free training also reflects the fire department’s ongoing role in community safety and public education. Residents interested in attending should enroll in advance and watch for any registration details or class-size limits from the Johnson City Fire Department.

For families, neighborhood groups, schools, and local workplaces, the July 8 class is a timely reminder that emergency preparedness starts with everyday people learning simple skills that can help protect the people around them.

Ballad Health recently held a hiring event at Bristol Regional Medical Center, underscoring ongoing demand for both clinical and non-clinical workers in the local health care sector.

Held on June 3, the event spotlighted a wide range of full-time positions—many essential to patient care, hospital operations, and support services.

Clinical roles involve direct patient interactions, while non-clinical jobs support administration, facilities, food service, and scheduling.

This mix highlights numerous accessible career paths for residents at all experience and education levels.

Bristol Regional Medical Center remains a major regional employer, anchoring the local economy and providing vital opportunities for families.

Even after such events, Ballad Health continues to accept applications online, offering both entry-level roles and opportunities for advancement.

Job seekers are encouraged to monitor new postings and future hiring events for stable openings in the Bristol area.

The Johnson City Police Department is accepting applications for its 2026 Junior Police Academy, a three-day youth program designed to give students a closer look at local law enforcement and public safety.

The academy offers participants a behind-the-scenes introduction to police work, helping young people better understand what officers do, how public safety teams serve the community, and what kinds of skills are involved in the profession. Programs like this often include demonstrations, hands-on learning, safety discussions, and opportunities to meet officers in a structured, educational setting.

For students who are curious about law enforcement, emergency response, criminal justice, or community service, the Junior Police Academy can be a helpful first step. It also gives participants a chance to ask questions, learn about teamwork and decision-making, and see how the department works with residents throughout Johnson City.

The program is especially relevant for families looking for meaningful summer activities that combine learning, leadership, and civic engagement. Parents and guardians interested in the academy should review application requirements, deadlines, age eligibility, and any participation limits directly through the Johnson City Police Department.

As applications open, the department is encouraging interested families to apply early. The three-day academy gives local students a practical way to learn more about public safety while building confidence, responsibility, and a stronger connection to the community.

Plan Ahead for Thunder Valley Weekend

With NHRA weekend returning to Bristol Dragway June 12–14, local residents may want to plan ahead for heavier traffic, busier restaurants, and increased hotel activity around the Speedway area.

Rather than focusing on the racing itself, this is a useful reminder for everyday readers: expect more visitors in town, allow extra time near major routes, and consider making reservations early if you plan to eat out in Bristol next weekend. Local businesses could also see a welcome bump from race fans traveling into the region.

For residents, the takeaway is simple: Thunder Valley weekend is one of Bristol’s bigger summer draws, so a little planning can make errands, dining, and weekend travel easier.

Local Events: Live Music, Family Fun, and Summer Activities Around the Tri-Cities

The Tri-Cities has a busy stretch of local events coming up, with options for families, music fans, farmers market shoppers, and weekend explorers.

In Johnson City, the Fridays After 5 summer concert series kicks off on Friday, June 5, bringing live music back downtown for the season. The opening night features Big Gun, an AC/DC tribute band, with more Friday evening concerts planned throughout June. Upcoming performers include the Lucille Klement Band on June 12, The Maggie Valley Band on June 19, and Florencia and the Feeling on June 26.

Families looking for a Saturday outing can check out Tri Cities Largest Kids Fest in Johnson City on Saturday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is a strong weekend pick for parents and kids looking for activities, entertainment, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

In Bristol, music fans have several options as well. Sister Hazel performs at Paramount Bristol on Friday, June 5, with the event running from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Downtown Bristol’s Sounds of Summer series also continues this month, with upcoming performances including Whitetop Mountain Band on June 9, Graystone on June 11, and Tim Laughlin & Friends on June 16.

Kingsport also has something fresh for the weekend. The Kingsport Farmers Market brings back Saturdays with the Chef on Saturday, June 6, offering visitors a chance to learn seasonal recipe ideas while shopping local produce and market goods.

For those looking ahead, one of the region’s biggest summer motorsports weekends is almost here. The Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals return to Bristol Dragway from June 12–14, drawing racing fans to Bristol Motor Speedway for a high-energy weekend in Thunder Valley.

Whether you are planning a date night, family outing, farmers market stop, or regional weekend trip, early June offers plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the Tri-Cities.

Bristol Calendar Includes City Council Work Session and Community Events

Bristol residents have a few local dates to keep on their radar as the city’s June calendar gets underway.

A Bristol City Council work session is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, giving residents a chance to follow local discussions, upcoming priorities, and city business. Work sessions are typically where council members review items in more detail before future votes or formal action.

The city calendar also includes community activities such as the Cops and Bobbers Fishing Event on June 6, a family-friendly outing that connects residents with local public safety officers in a relaxed outdoor setting.

For residents who like to stay involved, these calendar items offer two different ways to connect with the city: one through civic engagement and one through community-building. Checking the city calendar regularly is a simple way to keep up with public meetings, family events, and local programs happening around Bristol.

Rocky Fork Cleanup Offers a Simple Way to Give Back Outdoors

Tri-Cities residents looking for a hands-on way to spend part of the weekend can join the Rocky Fork Cleanup on Sunday, June 7, from noon to 2 p.m.

The cleanup is listed on the Johnson City visitor calendar and offers a practical opportunity to help care for one of the region’s outdoor spaces. Community cleanups are a simple way for residents, families, students, and local groups to spend time outside while making a visible difference.

Participants should plan to dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water. Anyone interested in joining should check the event listing for meeting details, supplies, and any updates before heading out.

For outdoor lovers and community-minded residents, the Rocky Fork Cleanup is a low-pressure way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty while helping keep it clean for others.

Johnson City drivers should plan for short-term lane closures as paving work begins on David Miller Road and Shadybrook Drive.

The City of Johnson City says crews will begin milling and paving Friday, June 5, on David Miller Road between Sinking Creek Road and Tom Pate Road, as well as all of Shadybrook Drive. Work is expected to take place on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with temporary lane closures likely during construction.

The project is expected to run through about Friday, June 12, weather permitting. Drivers should allow extra time, use caution around crews, and consider alternate routes during daytime work hours.

Kingsport paving season will bring road work to several busy areas this year.

Kingsport’s 2026 resurfacing program includes planned paving in the Gibson Mill and Midtown areas, along with additional work expected on major routes including I-26, I-81, Eastman Road, Clinchfield Street, and Island Road.

City officials say paving schedules can shift depending on weather, contractor availability, and traffic conditions. Drivers should watch for lane closures, flaggers, reduced speeds, and crews working near active travel lanes.

Residents who regularly travel through Gibson Mill, Midtown, Eastman Road, Clinchfield Street, or Island Road may want to build in extra time during work periods and keep an eye on city updates for specific dates and traffic impacts.

Interesting Facts

Eastman has shaped Kingsport for generations, serving as more than just a major employer — it’s a pillar of community life, innovation, and the reason Kingsport earned its title as the Model City.

Founded in 1920 by George Eastman of Eastman Kodak, the company began as a supplier of chemicals for photography but evolved into a global specialty materials leader based in Kingsport.

Arriving soon after Kingsport was re-chartered in 1917 and professionally designed as a modern industrial city, Eastman became instrumental in filling the city’s neighborhoods, schools, and businesses with opportunity and stability.

From plant gates to church pews, Eastman’s legacy is deeply woven into local families and traditions.

Today, Eastman remains a vital employer and symbol of Kingsport’s unique identity as an Appalachian hometown and innovation hub.

Archival issues of TEC News now offer residents a window into decades of shared history, reinforcing that Eastman’s story truly is Kingsport’s own.

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