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Thursday, March 31, 2016

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Thursday, March 31, 2016

National Forecast Map 
Courtesy the NOAA Weather Prediction Center

OVERVIEW

An area of moisture will surge out of the Gulf of Mexico ahead of a cold front today and overnight tonight, bringing periods of heavy rain and potential flash flooding. It is expected to push out of the region on Friday. A return to dry high pressure is expected over the weekend into early next week.


DAY SPONSOR

MaconMedia.com's News and Weather coverage is being underwritten today by the 2016 Georgia Travel Guide.

Get your free Georgia Travel Guide

The state's official Travel Guide is your complete resource to planning a vacation in Georgia. Find trip ideas, attractions, dining, events, activities, accommodations, map, travel resources and much more.

View Online at http://trendmag2.trendoffset.com/publication/?i=288087#{"issue_id":288087,"page":0}
Order One by mail at http://www.exploregeorgia.org/order-brochure/featured/free-georgia-travel-guide-2
Website: www.exploregeorgia.org
Phone: 1-800-VISIT GA (847-4842)

If you wish to be a day sponsor or to underwrite news and weather coverage for a day, please inquire at editor@MaconMedia.com


TODAY 

(Possible Severe Weather Conditions  between 3 pm today and 10 am tomorrow)

Patchy fog expected before 10 am with highs in the mid 60s and winds out of the south south east, 5 to 10 mph, gusting to 20 mph. Rainfall should arrive between noon and 5 pm and be heavy at times with rainfall accumulations between a quarter and half an inch before 6 pm expected. Thunderstorms may arrive sometime after 3 pm. High winds are possible between 10 am and 6 pm.


HAZARDS

Heavy rain and potential flooding are possible later today into tonight and Friday. Thunderstorms are also expected.


Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN


POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be medium-high (8.0 out of 12.0) with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to drop into the medium (5.2 out of 12) range Friday as a period of wet weather passes through the county. Levels are expected to only slightly increase on Saturday, with Sunday and Monday expected to be high pollen days. 9.6 and 10.1 out of 12, respectively.


TONIGHT

Patchy fog possible between 10 pm and 3 am, rain and thunderstorms expected with lows near the mid to upper 50s and winds out of the south. Rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible. Flooding will be possible in locations with poor drainage.


FRIDAY

Rain, heavy at times, numerous thunderstorms possible with some of them capable of producing torrential rainfall, mostly before noon. Highs near the low to 70s after the rain passes and the cloud cover decreases. Winds from the south before 10 am, then shifting to come out of the west at 5 to 10 mph. Rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch possible, more in locations that see multiple thunderstorms.



FRIDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near the mid 40s and winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph. 30% chance of rain with less than a tenth of an inch expected.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 1 am on March 31, 2016.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.

An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.


TODAY, Thursday, March 31st  

7:00 p.m. 

"Thinking About Backpacking on the A.T. ??" 

Bill Van Horn, an Appalachian Trail 2000 miler, will offer lessons on backpacking on the A.T. to make sure you are the most well-equipped and well-informed as possible for your enjoyment and protection of the trail. Topics will include personal readiness, Leave No Trace, hiker etiquette, and camping along the A.T.
https://www.facebook.com/events/170152830030208/


SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html


WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am


Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 31ST

Highest Temperature • 82°F in Franklin in 198563
Lowest Temperature • 13°F in Franklin in 1964
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 2.37 inches in Highlands in 1976
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 0.2 inches in Highlands in 1966


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993



NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 31ST

Highest Temperature • 93°F in Kinston, Lenoir County in 1910
Lowest Temperature • 6°F in Montreal, Yancey County in 1950
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.20 inches in Tarboro, Edgecombe County in 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 11.0 inches in Banner Elk, Avery County in 1972


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
(1870-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 100°F in Aberdeen, Moore County on March 29, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -14°F in Murphy, Cherokee County on March 16, 1880
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 10.50 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 36.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >> https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

time posted >> 5:00 am on Facebook, earlier on the web (weekend and major holiday publish times are 6 am and weekdays are 5 am)

Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Wednesday, March 30, 2016

National Forecast Map 
Courtesy of the NOAA Weather Prediction Center

OVERVIEW

Dry conditions will prevail today, then an area of moisture will surge out of the Gulf of Mexico ahead of a cold front, which will push through the region on Friday. A return to dry high pressure is expected over the weekend into early next week.

DAY SPONSOR

MaconMedia.com's News and Weather coverage is being underwritten today by Christmas Child, Western North Carolina. Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina is a Project of Samaritan's Purse. This organization is holding a benefit car show on Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. Learn more about this benefit at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html

If you wish to be a day sponsor or to underwrite news and weather coverage for a day, please inquire at editor@MaconMedia.com


TODAY
Sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph.


HAZARDS

No hazardous weather is expected today. Heavy rain and potential flooding are possible Thursday and Friday.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN



POLLEN REPORT


The pollen level today will be high (9.7 out of 12.0) with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to drop into the medium-high range on Thursday and Friday as a period of wet weather passes through the county. Very high (11.6 out of 12) pollen levels are expected for Saturday.

TONIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near 50 and winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph. 40% chance of rain, mainly after midnight.


THURSDAY
Rain, heavy at times with highs near the mid 60s and winds from the south 5 to 10 mph. Rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch expected.



THURSDAY NIGHT
Rain, heavy at time with lows near the mid 50s and winds from the south 5 to 10 mph. Rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 1 am on March 30, 2016.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.

An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html


WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am


Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 30TH

Highest Temperature • 83°F in Franklin in 1985
Lowest Temperature • 8°F in Highlands in 1894
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.41 inches in Nantahala in 1975
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 2.5 inches in Highlands in 1915


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993



NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 30TH

Highest Temperature • 99°F in Snow Hill, Greene County in 1907
Lowest Temperature • -4°F in Grandfather Mountain, Avery County in 1964
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.41 inches in Nantahala, Macon County in 1975
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 10.0 inches in Banner Elk, Avery County in 1915


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
(1870-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 100°F in Aberdeen, Moore County on March 29, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -14°F in Murphy, Cherokee County on March 16, 1880
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 10.50 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 36.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >> https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Press Release
Prescribed burns planned for the Nantahala National Forest

A prescribed burn in the Nantahala Ranger District

PRESS RELEASE

MURPHY, N.C., March 29, 2016 -- The U.S. Forest Service plans to conduct a 1,700 acre prescribed burn in the Nantahala National Forest on Wednesday, March 30, 2016.

The agency will conduct the burn on the Cheoah District in upper Nantahala Gorge area. The burn is located on the north-west side of Highway 74 in the Nantahala Gorge, between Ledbetter Creek to the west and Mudcut Branch to the east.

The goal of the burns is to reduce the amount of fuel on the forest floor. The burns will also restore fire adapted vegetation and improve wildlife habitat. Click here to learn more about restoring fire to the mountains.

The safety of the public and firefighters is the highest priority during a prescribed burn.

A portion of the Bartram Trail (Tr 67) will be closed during burn operations. Trail closed signs will be posted on both the North and South portions of the Bartram Trail that intersects the burn unit. The public is asked to heed signs posted at trailheads and roads and to stay away from burn areas and closed roads and trails.

Public traveling on Highway 74 may see smoke. Information signs will be posted on Highway 74 at both the east and west entrances of the gorge as well on Highway 28 at Stecoah Gap and at the Almond/Highway 74 intersection. All prescribed burns follow smoke management guidelines to mitigate impacts to the public.

A helicopter will assist in burn operations.

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Tuesday, March 29, 2016

National Forecast Map 
Courtesy NOAA Weather Prediction Center

OVERVIEW

The local weather pattern is expected to be dominated by dry conditions through Wednesday. Another cold front is expected to arrive later this week with a dry weekend in store.



TODAY

Widespread frost after 5 am. Mostly clear with lows near freezing early, the the mid 60s in the afternoon. Calm winds rising to come from the north by mid morning.


HAZARDS

A frost advisory is in effect for Macon County until 9 am.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be

viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be high (10.3 out of 12.0) with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to remain high (9.8 out of 12) on Wednesday and then gradually decrease into the medium-high range and may even drop into the medium range on Friday.

TONIGHT

Mostly clear with lows near the upper 30s and light winds out of the southeast



WEDNESDAY

Sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds from the southeast 5 to 10 mph.


WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near 50 and winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph. 70% chance of rain.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• Frost Advisory in effect from March 29, 12:00 AM EDT until March 29, 09:00 AM EDT


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.

An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html


WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am

Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 29TH

Highest Temperature • 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2007
Lowest Temperature • 11°F in Highlands in 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 6.43 inches in Highlands in 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • No measurable snowfall has been recorded on this date in Macon County


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993



NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 28TH


Highest Temperature • 100°F in Aberdeen, Moore County in 1907
Lowest Temperature • 6°F in Boone, Watauga County in 1947
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 6.43 inches in Highlands, Macon County in 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 4.1 inches in Mountain City, Ashe County in 1941


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
(1870-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 100°F in Aberdeen, Moore County on March 29, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -14°F in Murphy, Cherokee County on March 16, 1880
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 10.50 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 36.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >> https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Monday, March 28, 2016

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Monday, March 28, 2016

National Weather Map 
Courtesy of the NOAA Weather Prediction Center





OVERVIEW

A cold front will push through the county this morning, with dry high pressure filling in behind it through Wednesday. Another cold front is expected to arrive later this week.


Vietnam Veterans Day

On Saturday, Vietnam Veterans and their supporters gathered in downtown Franklin for a parade and ceremony observing Vietnam Veterans Day.

Here is an excerpt:



More video and photos will be posted tomorrow.



TODAY

Patchy fog early, Clouds decreasing until it becomes mostly sunny around 9 am or so. Highs are expected to be near the mid 60s and winds out of the northeast 5 to 10 mph. 30% chance of rain, mainly before 9 am with rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch expected.


HAZARDS

No hazardous weather is expected.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be high (10.1 out of 12.0) with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to remain high (10.5 out of 12) on Tuesday and then gradually decrease into the medium-high range and may even drop into the medium range on Friday.

TONIGHT

Mostly clear with lows near freezing and winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.


TUESDAY

Patchy frost possible before 8 am, mostly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds out of the north.



TUESDAY NIGHT

Mostly clear with lows near the upper 30s and variable light winds.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None are in effect for Macon County as of 4 am.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.






SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html


WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am

Weekly Greenway Birdwalks
begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 28TH

Highest Temperature • 81°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2007
Lowest Temperature • 14°F in Franklin in 1982
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 2.64 inches in Highlands iin 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 2.3 inches in Highlands in 1893


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




NEW SECTION: NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREMES FOR THIS DATE AND MONTH


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 28TH

Highest Temperature • 96°F in Aberdeen, Moore County in 1907
Lowest Temperature • 5°F in Montreat, Yancey County in 1926
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 4.72 inches in Blowing Rock, Watauga County in 1994
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 11.0 inches in Jefferson, Ashe County in 1947


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
(1870-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 100°F in Aberdeen, Moore County on March 29, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -14°F in Murphy, Cherokee County on March 16, 1880
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 10.50 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 36.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >> https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Saturday, March 26, 2016

Confederate Memorial in Rankin Square

Confederate Memorial in Rakin Square 
Statue is backlit by the moon 
Photo ©2016 by Bobby Coggins

Here is an image of the Confederate Memorial in Rankin Square. The statue is backlit by the moon behind the soldier's head.

Click on the image to embiggen to a larger size.

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Saturday, March 26, 2016

National Forecast Map 
Courtesy the NOAA Weather Prediction Center



OVERVIEW

An area of cool high pressure will wedge into the region today and tonight and a cold front is expected to cross the region Monday. More dry high pressure should dominate the local weather pattern on Tuesday and Wednesday while another period of unsettled weather may impact our region later in the week.



TODAY
Partly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and calm winds early rising to 5 mph from the southeast in the afternoon.


HAZARDS

No hazardous weather is expected.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be

viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be high (10.2 out of 12.0) with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to be medium-high (9.4 out of 12) on Sunday and high (9.9 out of 12) on Monday with level forecast to reach ever higher levels through at least Wednesday.


TONIGHT

Patchy fog for a couple hours either side of midnight, otherwise cloudy with lows near the upper 40s and a south wind calming before midnight. 20% chance of precipitation, mostly in the form of drizzle before 3 am.


EASTER SUNDAY

Cloudy with highs near 70 and calm winds rising to come from the south around 5 mph in the afternoon. 60% chance of rain with rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch expected, except higher mounts possible in locations that are hit by thunderstorms.


SUNDAY NIGHT

Cloudy with lows near 50 and winds from the south . 80% chance of rain with rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half an inch expected, except higher mounts possible in locations that are hit by thunderstorms.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None are in effect for Macon County as of 4 am.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html


WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am

Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 26TH

Highest Temperature • 85°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2007
Lowest Temperature • 149°F in Highlands in 1894
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.20 inches in Nantahala iin 1965
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 7.0 inches in Nantahala in 1971


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >>
https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

Friday, March 25, 2016

Obey the Sign or Pay the Fine


Readers are reporting an increased law enforcement presence today, including large numbers of NC Highway Patrol Troopers.

This is due to an annual initiative called 'Obey the Sign or Pay the Fine" that has the goal of saving lives and reducing speeds on state roads.


Here is more information from the Governor's Highway Safety Program:

OBEY THE SIGN OR PAY THE FINE

Studies continue to show that speed is a major cause of injury and fatality on North Carolina roadways. In 2015 alone, there were 322 speed-related fatalities and 10,658 speed-related injuries. Speeding was a contributing factor in 23 percent of all fatal crashes in North Carolina.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration considers a crash to be speeding-related if the driver was charged with a speeding-related offense, or if the responding officer indicates the driver was either driving too fast for the road conditions at the time or was exceeding the posted speed limit.

A crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to result in a fatality than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph and nearly five times as likely as a crash on a road with a speed limit of 40 mph or below.

Speeding can have dangerous consequences, including:

•Reducing a driver's ability to negotiate curves or maneuver around obstacles in the roadway
•Extending the distance traveled before a vehicle can stop
•Increasing the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a hazard
•Increasing the risk of crashes and injuries because other vehicles and pedestrians might not be able to judge distance correctly

In 2015, 88 percent of all speeding-related traffic fatalities in North Carolina occurred on non-interstate roadways – where the posted speed limits were 55 miles per hour or lower. Only 8 percent of the state's speeding-related fatalities occurred on interstate highways that year.

In 2015, speeding was involved in 27 percent of the fatal crashes that occurred in construction or maintenance zones.

Many Americans believe they won't be ticketed if they drive within a "buffer zone" above the posted speed limit. But now, law enforcement will be targeting and ticketing speeding drivers. When it comes to speeding: Obey the Sign or Pay the Fine – the posted speed limit IS THE LAW.

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Good Friday, March 25, 2016

The National Forecast Map for March 25th
Courtesy the NOAA Weather Prediction Center






OVERVIEW

A cold front will cross the region today and dry high pressure is expected to build into the region through Sunday. Rainfall chances will then increase as another cold front is expected to approach early on Monday, then dry conditions should prevail through at least Thursday.

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

The state legislature is not expected to meet again until April 25, 2016. There are no committee meetings today. Two are schedculed for Monday, the Blue Ribbon Commission to Study the Building and Infrastructure Needs of the State and the House Select Committee on Strategic Transportation Planning and Long Term Funding Solutions. The latter meeting will be held at the Train Depot at 1001 Arendell Street in Morehead City, so there will be no way to monitor their meeting. We will have to trust the Legacy Media to cover it.


TODAY

Mostly cloudy with decreasing clouds and highs near the mid to upper 60s and winds from the west northwest 5 to 10 mph. 40% chance of rain, mainly before noon.


HAZARDS

No hazardous weather is expected.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN



POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be medium (7.1 out of 12.0)thanks to the recent rain with Juniper, Oak and Maple still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to be high (9.9 out of 12) on Saturday and high (11.0 out of 12) on Sunday.


TONIGHT

Mostly clear with lows near 40 and winds out of the north 5 to 10 mph calming before midnight.



SATURDAY

Mostly sunny with highs near 70 and calm winds in the morning rising to come from the south east in the afternoon.


SATURDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy with lows near the mid 40s and winds out of the southwest calming before midnight.


SUNDAY

Mostly cloudy withhighs near the upper 60s. 50% chance of rain, manly after noon. Thunderstorms are also possible in the afternoon hours.


SUNDAY NIGHT

Cloudy with lows near 50. 60% chance of rain, mainly before 2 am.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None are in effect for Macon County as of 4 am.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND


8am to 1 pm
A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html



WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am

Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 25TH

Highest Temperature • 84°F in Highlands iin 1929
Lowest Temperature • 14°F in Franklin in 1956
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.14 inches in Highlands iin 1901
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 5.5 inches in Highlands in 1971


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >> https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia



Thursday, March 24, 2016

Brushfire on Sandwood Drive

A firefighter applying water to put out hotspots


At about 2:48 pm on March 24,. 2016, Franklin Police reported a brush fire on Sandwood Drive with a shed and a residence in danger. Franklin Fire Department and the North Carolina Forest Service were dispatched and Cullasaja and Mountain Valley Fire Departments were sent to provide mutual aid.

Firefighters made quick work of the fire and saved the residence that was in danger. 



Here are some photos and some video clips taken at the scene.

VIDEO




PHOTOS



















Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Thursday, March 24, 2016






National Forecast Map 
Courtesy of the NOAA Weather Prediction Center


OVERVIEW

A cold front will approach the county from the west today and cross the region tonight. Dry high pressure is then expected to build into the region on Friday and Saturday, then be pushed out by moisture ahead of a low pressure system that should bring rain on Sunday and early Monday. Drier conditions are then expected to last into the middle of the week.

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

The legislative calendar for today is posted online at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/nc-general-assembly-legislative_24.html The website has been optimized for those using mobile devices. Let me know if it is easier to read.


TODAY

Partly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds out of the south southeast 5 to 10 mph, gusting to 20 mph. Winds are expected to peak between 2 pm and 5 pm. 30% chance of rain with rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch possible. The greatest chances of rain will be between 2 pm today and 6 am Friday.


HAZARDS

There are currently no hazardous conditions being forecast for the county. Please use extreme caution if you do burn before the rain arrives, as wind gusts are expected to peak this afternoon. Please consider putting off any burning until another time.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be medium-high (8.9 out of 12.0) with Maple, Juniper and Oak still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to be medium (6.8 out of 12) on Friday. Pollen levels are expected to rise again after the rain passes through and return to medium -high levels for the weekend.


TONIGHT

Cloudy with lows near the low to mid 40s and winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph. 80% chance of rain, mainly before 6 am, with rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch expected. Patchy fog is possible between 9 pm and 3 am.


FRIDAY

Mostly cloudy, becoming sunny by the afternoon. Highs near the mid 60s and winds out of the north northwest.


FRIDAY NIGHT


Mostly clear with lows near the mid to upper 30s and winds out of the north 5 to 10 mph calming before midnight.




WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None are in effect for Macon County as of 4 am.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm


A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html



WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am


Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 24TH

Highest Temperature • 84°F in Highlands iin 1929
Lowest Temperature • 12°F in Highlands in 1915
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 4.35 inches in Highlands iin 1917
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 5.0 inches in Highlands in 1983


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)

Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >>
https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia




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NC General Assembly Legislative Calendar
Thursday, March 24, 2016




State Legislature Building


The state legislature [link] will reconvene on April 25, 2016 at 7 pm when the NC Senate [link] and the NC House [link] are scheduled to begin the short session. The short session meets in even numbered years (usually beginning in May) and typically last six weeks or so. The long sessions are mandated by statute to begin in odd numbered years on the second Wednesday in January. These sessions typically last six months or so.

I have posted the calendar of scheduled legislative activity along with links to where you can listen online to our state legislators as they go about their tasks. I plan on listening and recording what I can, so be sure to check back later today and see what audio I've managed to upload.



I previously recommended Voter Radio as a good source of audio from the state legislature. Sadly, Voter Radio is no longer in the business of passing along full and complete audio of the state legislature. 

If you know of someone who is recording and archiving the meetings of the NC Senate and various committees, please let me know. The NC House is currently the only body that posts it's own audio. [LINK]




Wednesday, March 24, 2016
9:00 AM Select Committee on Education Strategy and Practices - House [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE] 544 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]









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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Macon County Board of Health
March 21016 Meeting

Board of Health



The Macon County Board of Health met last night, March 22nd at the Macon County Health Department. The video and supporting documents are posted below for your convenience.





MACON COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH
MARCH 2016 AGENDA

The Macon County Board of Health will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on 3/22/2016. The Board of Health meetings are open to the public and public comment is welcome with the exception of Executive Sessions. The meeting will commence at 6:15 p.m. and will be held in Meeting Rooms A & B of the Human Services Building. If any Board members are unable to attend, please contact Darice Davis @ (828) 349-2423.

Public Comment

Call to Order

Approve Agenda: Discuss & Revise as Necessary

Welcome/Intro/Departures/Recognition

1. Presentation

2. Approve Minutes of Previous Meetings:

3. Old Business
--A. Closed Session Siting a Personnel Matter in Teresa Murray
accordance with N.C.G.S. 143-318.11a (6)

4. New Business
--A. Safe Kids Molly Phillips
--B. Budget Jim Bruckner, Tammy Keezer, Dorota Anthony
--C. Polling BOH Members Jim Bruckner
--D. Nominations for Chair Jim Bruckner

5. Board Training and Announcements
--A. Nominations are being taken for Public Health Hero. (Please see handout) They are due by 12:00 pm on 4/4/2016. Forms may be submitted electronically. For any questions please contact Lynn Baker @ lbaker@maconnc.org or 349- 2437. Nomination forms can be found on Maconnc.org.

Next Meeting 4-26-2016
Requested Agenda / Discussions Items (General Updates, Emerging Issues, etc.)


MEDIA ROLL CALL

(media orgs with reporters present for the meeting)

Macon Media (this was my first meeting of this board)
WFSC-AM/WNCC-FM
The Franklin Press
Macon County News and Shopping Guide



CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Video Sponsorhips are also available

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.


If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.
Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.


You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >>
https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia


SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Here are the documents related to this meeting:
















Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Wednesday, March 23, 2016

National Forecast Map 
Courtesy of the NOAA Weather Predication Center

**WEATHER BRIEFING FOR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23, 2016**

OVERVIEW

It will remain dry and warm in the region today. A cold front will bring increased chances of rain on Thursday and Thursday night, then dry high pressure is expected to return on Friday, lingering through Saturday with another low pressure will arrive on Sunday, bringing moisture and increased chances of rain into the region.

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

The legislative calendar for today is posted online at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/nc-general-assembly-legislative.html It includes a call for a special session by the NC House and a joint proclamation by the NC House and NC Senate calling for a special session. Information and links are provided on the website.


TODAY

Widespread frost before 9 am, mostly sunny with highs near the mid to upper 60s. Some locations in the county could see 70 or higher. Light winds from the west south west will shift to come from the south southwest 5 to 10 mph by mid morning, gusts could reach 20 mph at times.


HAZARDS

A Freeze Advisory is in effect for Macon County until 9 am today. Frost is expected to be widespread. The National Weather Service has also issued a Special Weather Statement regarding increased fire danger from 9 am this morning until 9 pm tonight. Please use extreme caution if you do burn. Please consider putting off any burning until another time.

Unless the Forest Service cancels, they have scheduled a prescribed burn in the Nantahala Gorge today. The plan is to burn about 1,600 acres.



SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GREENVILLE-SPARTANBURG SC
404 AM EDT WED MAR 23 2016

...INCREASED FIRE DANGER FROM 9 AM EDT THIS MORNING TO 9 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

THE COMBINATION OF LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY... GUSTY WINDS... AND LOW FUEL MOISTURE WILL LEAD TO INCREASED FIRE DANGER ACROSS THE WESTERN PORTION OF NORTH CAROLINA TODAY. RELATIVE HUMIDITY VALUES FALLING IN THE UPPER TEENS AND 20S BY THIS AFTERNOON WILL COMBINE WITH SOUTHWEST WINDS OF 10 TO 20 MPH... WITH OCCASIONAL HIGHER GUSTS...TO FURTHER DRY OUT FINE FUELS.

PLEASE REFER TO YOUR LOCAL BURN PERMITTING AUTHORITY ON WHETHER YOU CAN BURN. IF YOU DO BURN... YOU ARE ADVISED TO USE EXTREME CAUTION.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be high (10.3 out of 12.0) with Maple, Juniper and Oak still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to be medium high to high through at least Saturday.


TONIGHT

Increasing clouds with lows near the mid 40s and winds from the south 5 to 10 mph.


THURSDAY

Mostly cloudy with highs near the mid 60s and winds from the south 5 to 10 mph. 60% chance of rain, mainly after 5 pm.


THURSDAY NIGHT


Cloudy with lows near the lower 40s and winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph. 80% chance of rain, mainly before 3 am, with rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch expected.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• Frost Advisory until March 23, 09:00 AM EDT
• Special Weather Statement regarding increased fire danger


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23RD

2:00 & 6:00 p.m.
“Appalachian Impressions: Hiking the Appalachian Trail” documentary.
Take the 2,173 mile journey along the most famous long-distance hiking trail in the world. Along the way you'll meet hikers who have embarked on the trek, carrying everything they need on their backs. Hear their stories and experience the thrills and pain of this epic journey.


SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm
A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html



WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH
8:00am

Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 23RD

Highest Temperature • 82°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2011
Lowest Temperature • 15°F in Highlands in 2004
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 4.05 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 1952
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 0.1 inches in Highlands in 1950


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >>
https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia

time posted >> 5:00 am on facebook, earlier on the web
(weekend and major holiday publish times are 6 am and weekdays are 5 am)



NC General Assembly Legislative Calendar
Wednesday, March 23, 2016






The state legislature [link] will reconvene today at 10 am when the NC Senate [link] and the NC House [link] are scheduled to take up the task odf repealing the recent gender neutral ordinance passed by the Charlotte City Council. 
A copy of the proclamation [LINK]. 
House request for an extra session [LINK].

I have posted the calendar of scheduled legislative activity along with links to where you can listen online to our state legislators as they go about their tasks. I plan on listening and recording what I can, so be sure to check back later today and see what audio I've managed to upload.



Another good source of live and recorded audio of the NC General Assembly is Voter Radio. Check out their website.



Wednesday, March 23ncleg, 2016
9:00 AM Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services, Early Education & Family -- CANCELLED [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE] 544 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]
9:30 AM Select Committee on Achievement School Districts -- CANCELLED (House) [MEMBERS] 424 LOB [No AUDIO]
9:30 AM Committee on Savings Reserve Account (LRC)(2015) -- CANCELLED [MEMBERS]643 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]
10:00 AM Session Convenes (House)  HOUSE [LIVE AUDIO]
10:00 AM Session Convenes (Senate) SENATE [LIVE AUDIO]
15 MINUTES AFTER SESSION Select Committee on Step Therapy -- CORRECTED (House) [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE] 544 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]
2:00 PM Select Committee on Education Strategy and Practices -- CANCELLED (House) [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE]415 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]





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Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Daily Weather Briefing for Macon County
Tuesday, March 22, 2016

National Forecast Map for today 
Image courtesy NOAA Weather Prediction Center




OVERVIEW

Dry high pressure will build into the region today through Wednesday, allowing temperatures to return to seasonal levels. A cold front is expected to cross late Thursday with another later in the weekend, bringing an increased chance of rain with it.

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

Macon Media is restarting the daily legislative calendar, a feature that was suspended in April 2012 the calendar will allow Maconians to track the work of the state legislature. The legislative calendar for today may be seen at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/nc-general-assembly-calendar-for-03-22.html This includes the press release from the Lieutenant Governor's Office of a Special session of the state legislature to repeal the recent gender ordinance passed by the Charlotte City Council.


TODAY

Widespread frost before 9 am, mostly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and calm winds rising to come from the southwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.


HAZARDS

A Freeze Warning is in effect for Macon County until 9 am today. Frost is expected to be widespread.

Current Advisories, Watches and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service for Macon County can be viewed at any time at http://is.gd/MACONWARN

POLLEN REPORT

The pollen level today will be medium-high (9.1 out of 12.0) with Maple, Juniper and Oak still being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to be high (10.4 out of 12.0) and gradually increase to high (10.8 on a 0 to 12 scale) on Wednesday with pollen levels expected to remain medium high to high through at least Saturday.


TONIGHT

Clear with lows near the mid 30s and winds out of the south.


WEDNESDAY

Sunny with highs near 70 and variable light winds rising to come from the south 5 to 10 mph by mid morning.


WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Partly cloudy with lows near the mid to upper 40s and winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph.


THURSDAY

Mostly cloudy with highs near 70. 50% chance of rain, mainly after 10 am.


THURSDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near 40. 70% chance of rain, mainly before 3 am.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• Freeze Warning in effect from March 22, 12:00 AM EDT until March 22, 09:00 AM EDT


ANNOUNCEMENTS

If you have an event announcement, or wish to inquire about a day sponsorship, email the information to editor@maconmedia.com.
An advertising fee will be required for events that either charge admission or charge for vendor participation.



WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23RD
2:00 & 6:00 p.m.
“Appalachian Impressions: Hiking the Appalachian Trail” documentary.
Take the 2,173 mile journey along the most famous long-distance hiking trail in the world. Along the way you'll meet hikers who have embarked on the trek, carrying everything they need on their backs. Hear their stories and experience the thrills and pain of this epic journey.


SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND
8am to 1 pm
A Benefit Car Show for Operation Christmas Child, Western North Carolina, will be held Saturday, April 2nd from 8 am to 3 pm at Franklin High School parking lot, by football field. Registration Fee: $15 to enter a car. If you are interested in showing or participating please contact: Shelly Pilkerton at 828-371-7503 or e-mail: shellypilkerton@yahoo.com. For more information on the event, see http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/03/benefit-car-show-for-operation.html



WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH

8:00am
Weekly Greenway Birdwalks begin. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot.



MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR MARCH 22ND

Highest Temperature • 80°F in Highlands in 1935
Lowest Temperature • 10°F in Franklin in 1965
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.49 inches in Highlands in 1955
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 4.5 inches in Franklin in 1872


WEATHER EXTREMES FOR MARCH IN MACON COUNTY
(1872-2016)


Highest Temperature -- 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 15, 1967
Lowest Temperature -- -7°F in Highlands on March 7, 1899
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 6.43 inches in Highlands on March 29, 1898
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Lab on March 13, 1993




CROWD FUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month.

If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

You can find out more information on how to do that and some of what I plan to accomplish if I reach certain levels of funding at >>
https://www.patreon.com/MaconMedia