NC General Assembly Legislative Calendar Tuesday, April 26, 2016

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The state legislature [link] will convene today, the NC Senate [link] at 9:15 am and the NC House [link] at 10:00 am.

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. The calendar link in the Senate and House section lead to a list of bills that are on the calendar to be considered today. The PDF file includes links to the bill page. On that page is a history of actions on the bill, and the bill text, as well as past versions of the bill.

If I have time, I'll listen and record the audio from some of the meetings.

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

9:15 AM	Session Convenes (Senate) [CALENDAR]	SENATE [LIVE AUDIO]
10:00 AM	Session Convenes (House) [CALENDAR]	HOUSE [LIVE AUDIO]
1:00 PM	Finance (Senate) [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE]	544 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]
1:00 PM	Press Conference -- Rep. Grier Martin	PRESS ROOM [LIVE AUDIO]
3:00 PM	Select Committee on Nominations (SENATE) [MEMBERS] Agenda: To consider following nominees: Linda Combs, Controller; Lyons Gray, Utilities Commission; Chris Loutit, Industrial Commission; Anne Faircloth, Faylene Whitaker and James Lambeth, Board of Agriculture.	1027/1128 LB [NO AUDIO]

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Two Minor Quakes Shake Near WNC Today

Two minor earthquakes have struck with a 60 mile radius of Franklin, NC. The one to the west of us was a 2.6 and the one to the east of us was a 2.5. Quakes of this magnitude range usually strike within this area at least 12 to 20 times a year.

Please follow the links to the event pages for more information:

Buncombe County, NC Quake

Monroe County, TN Quake

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Letter to the Editor No Negative Connotation in Resignation of Mayor from Board

Letter to the editor in response to the Macon County News & Shopping Guide article Thursday, April 21, 2016 “Mayor resigns from ATCC board”:

No negative connotation in Resignation.

As a founding member of the Franklin Appalachian Trail Community Council I offer for readers the following information: Facts:

1. Franklin Mayor Bob Scott was one of four people that promoted Franklin to seek designation as an Appalachian Trail Community.
2. The Franklin Appalachian Trail Community Council (by its by-laws) has two representatives from the Town of Franklin an alderman and a town employee.
3. Since the Council’s formation in 2009, until elected mayor, Bob Scott served as the town alderman representative.
4. When elected mayor Pattie Able replaced Bob Scott as the alderman representative.
5. Mayor Scott remained on the Council until his recent resignation (by its by-laws the council has a flexible membership from 11-15).

In my opinion: 

1. Mayor Scott left the Council in strong hands.
2. His love of Macon County’s surrounding natural beauty and his support to Franklin as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts is unquestionable.
3. At this time, his leadership, managerial ability and political capital need to focus on other issues facing Franklin.
4. Franklin’s position as an A.T. Community is secure in no small part to his early vision and eight years on the Council.

Bill Van Horn




**note** Letters to the Editor may be sent to editor@maconmedia.com

If you have a photograph or video you wish to be used, please make sure you have taken the photo yourself. If the video is posted online and you wish it to be included, please either link to the video or include video embed codes. IF a video is posted on a video sharing site, you do not have to be the one who shot the video for it to be included.

Limit of one letter per person per week. Profanities and vulgar language will cause the letter to not be accepted for publication.

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NC General Assembly Legislative Calendar Monday, April 25, 2016

**1:15 pm** Members of the Democratic Caucus are holding a press conference in the State Legislature addressing their concerns with HB 2 that was passed during the second special session of the NC General Assembly.

Macon Media published coverage of HB2.

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The state legislature [link] will reconvene today at 7 pm when the NC Senate [link] and the NC House [link] are scheduled to begin the short session. This session generally lasts for a few weeks and usually involves local bills and tweaks to the biennial state budget that was passed during the long session. 

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. Also included below the calendar are images of the calendars from the NC House and NC Senate calendars with deadlines for filing bills and limitations on what types of bills may be filed this session.


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 will be unable to listen to the 7 pm sessions because I will be recording and streaming live video from a meeting of the local school board.


Since Voter Radio has gone silent, I am pursuing options for recording and archiving audio from the sessions and committee meetings of the state legislature myself.

Monday, April 25, 2016

3:00 PM	Legislative Research Commission [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE]	1027/1128 LB [NO AUDIO]
4: 00 PM	Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on General Government (House) [MEMBERS] [WEBSITE]	544 LOB [LIVE AUDIO]
7:00 PM	Session Convenes (House)	HOUSE [LIVE AUDIO]
7:00 PM	Session Convenes (Senate)	SENATE [LIVE AUDIO]

NC HOUSE BILL INFORMATION

NC SENATE BILL INFORATION

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Macon County Weather Briefing Wednesday, April 20, 2016

OVERVIEW

A cold front will push through the region this morning from the north (this is called a backdoor cold front) causing the highs to moderate. Another cold front is expected to arrive from the west, increasing rain chances on Thursday and Friday, possibly lasting into Saturday afternoon. Another area of high pressure should settle in the region for a spell, allowing things to dry out again next week.



TODAY

Partly sunny with highs near the mid 70s and variable light winds early shifting to come from the south 5 to 10 mpg by mid morning,



HAZARDS

No Hazardous Weather Expected.

Relative Humidity values will not be dipping be below 30% today. Conditions are still dry, so please exercise some common sense if you plan on burning outdoors today. Rain should be arriving on Thursday or Friday, so consider putting off outdoor burning until then.

You can contact the county ranger at 828-369-8677 or by email at bobby.mashburn@ncagr.gov before burning outdoors today.



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

The pollen level today will be high (10.4 out of 12.0) with Oak, Sweetgum and Poplar being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to

decline slightly through Saturday day with pollen levels being between 8.4 and 10.4 on a scale of 0 to 12. Pollen levels are expected to increase again on Sunday.


TONIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near 50 and winds from the southeast calming before midnight.


THURSDAY

Mostly cloudy with highs near 70 and winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph. 30% chance of rain, mainly after 3 pm with less than a tenth of an inch expected.


THURSDAY NIGHT

Cloudy with lows near the mid 50s and winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph. 50% chance of rain with less than a tenth of an inch expected.


FRIDAY and FRIDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with highs near the upper 60s and lows near 50. Winds from the southwest, shifting to come from the north east around 7 pm or so. Rainfall likely and thunderstorms possible with rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch expected, more in locations that see thunderstorms.
Rainfall is expected to be mostly over by 7 pm, but there is a slight chance that scattered showers and drizzle could linger into Saturday afternoon.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 3 am on April 20, 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.




MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 20TH

Highest Temperature • 87°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2002
Lowest Temperature • 17°F in Franklin in 1983
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.096 inches in Highlands in 1893
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 1.5 inches in Highlands in 1901


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

Highest Temperature -- 91°F in Franklin on April 26, 1986
Lowest Temperature -- 13°F in Highlands on April 1, 1987
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 9.5 inches in Franklin on April 4, 1987


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 20TH

Highest Temperature • 98°F in Aberdeen, Moore County in 1896
Lowest Temperature • 9°F in Montreat, Yancey County in 1953
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.65 inches in Lumberton, Robeson County in 1918
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 18.0 inches in Waynesville, Haywood County in 1901 (what?)


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

Highest Temperature -- 102°F in Carthage, Moore County on April 29, 1981
Lowest Temperature -- 0°F in Shelby, Cleveland County on April 29, 1927
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 19.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on April 11, 2003


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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Macon Commissioners Approve Relay Race Route During Special Meeting

The Macon County Commissioners held a special meeting this afternoon to approve the running of the Smoky Mountain Relay Race through Macon County.

Commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the route. Commissioner Tate was absent.

A copy of the approval letter is below:



Sourwood Running, LLC
Attention: James C. Brendle, Registered Agent
2812 Old Stage Road
Central Point, OR 97502

Dear Jim:

It is Macon County’s understanding that Sourwood Running, LLC, has made request of the North Carolina Department of Transportation for permission for it to run a portion of its “Smoky Mountain Relay” running event which is scheduled to occur on April 22 and 23, 2016, through Macon County, North Carolina. Macon County is pleased that Sourwood Running, LLC, has chosen to make this request and that it has included Macon County within the “Smoky Mountain Relay” running course. As you know, Macon County is a beautiful county and our County welcomes Sourwood Running, LLC, the “Smoky Mountain Relay”, the runners and those associated with this great running event to come and enjoy Macon County during the “Smoky Mountain Relay” upon Sourwood Running, LLC, receiving all requisite approvals from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Thank you for providing the maps and description of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” course so that Macon County is able to see where the “Smoky Mountain Relay” course will be located in Macon County, NC.

We understand that as part of the permission request process with the North Carolina Department of Transportation that you need certain acknowledgments and approvals from Macon County as follows:

A. Written acknowledgment and approval of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” by Macon County given that a portion of this relay race will be situate in Macon County; and

B. Written acknowledgment and approval that the “Smoky Mountain Relay” and in particular that portion of the same which is to be situate in Macon County is supported by the Macon County Board of Commissioners.

Please accept this letter as acknowledgment and approval by Macon County and the Macon County Board of Commissioners of Sourwood Runners, LLC, an Oregon, LLC, conducting on April 22 and 23, 2016, that portion of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” which is to be situate in Macon County, North Carolina, subject to Sourwood Running, LLC receiving all requisite approvals from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Again, welcome to Macon County.

Sincerely,


Derek Roland
Macon County Manager

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Cook to Release Second Novel

PRESS RELEASE

Franklin, NC—Tyler Cook, Franklin native and Western Carolina University alumnus, will release his second novel, ‘Aluria’, at a special release party on May 7 at 11 a.m. at the Macon County Public Library. 

“Aluria is by far my favorite book I’ve written to date,” said Cook.  “I brought out my best creativity, and I think the readers will agree.”

In order to save his teenage crush, Jason Conner allows an extra-terrestrial spirit, named Aluria, to inhabit his body. At that moment, Jason vowed to protect the innocent and hunt down the guilty, avenging those that were tragically taken from him.  But while Jason thought that his first enemy, Raiz, was long deceased, the evil sorcerer returns to Canton to obtain what Jason robbed him of: A magical item that grants anyone who possesses, it infinite power.  Aluria is the first in a series that tells a story about heroism, love and hope.

In 2014, Cook released ‘A Guide to Historic Dillsboro’, now an award-winning book that celebrates the historic town of Dillsboro, as well as raising money for the Appalachian Women’s Museum.  Later that year, he wrote ‘The One’ which was released in early 2015.

Cook says that ‘Aluria’ is the first in a series, and writing for the sequel has already begun. 

“I have so much more planned for the characters that have come to life for me,” Cook said.  “In the meantime, I hope the readers will fall in love with them the same way that I have.”

Books Unlimited will provide copies of Cook’s books at the event on May 7.  Reservations can be made by calling 828-369-7942.

For more information, 

contact Tyler Cook at 828-371-8519   www.tylermcook.com or moonshinepressnc@gmail.com. 

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Macon County Weather Briefing Monday, April 18, 2016

OVERVIEW

A dry high pressure will dominate the local weather pattern through midweek, with temperatures warming to above normal levels. A cold front will slip down from the north on Wednesday, bringing cooler conditions with it. Rain chances will increase later in the week.


LOCAL GOVERNMENT

The Franklin Town Board of Aldermen will be holding a previously scheduled budget work session at 5:30 pm today in the lower level of town hall. Macon Media will be there and streaming it live. [LINK]

The Macon County Commissioners will be holding a special meeting at 5 pm, the primary purpose of which is supposed to be the approval of the Smoky Mountain Relay Course though portions of Macon County. Macon Media will be present and streaming this meeting live, too. [LINK]


TODAY

Sunny with highs near 80 and calm winds.



HAZARDS

No Hazardous Weather Expected. 

Relative Humidity values will be below 30% between 11 am and 8 pm. There may be an increased danger of fire spread if a fire gets out of prescribed boundaries due to undergrowth becoming dry.


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

The pollen level today will be high (10.8 out of 12.0) with Oak, Sweetgum and Poplar being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to remain steady through Friday with pollen levels being between 10.1 and 11.5 on a scale of 0 to 12.


TONIGHT

Clear with lows near the mid 40s and variable light winds.


TUESDAY

Sunny with highs near the upper 70s and winds out of the northwest. Clouds increasing later in the day.


TUESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near the lower 50s and light winds out of the northeast.


WEDNESDAY

Partly sunny with highs near the lower 70s.


WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near the lowe 50s.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 4 am on April 18, 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.




MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 18TH

Highest Temperature • 89°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 1955
Lowest Temperature • 21°F in Highlands in 1903
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.07 inches at in Highlands in 1924
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • There has been no measurable snowfall on this date in Macon County since 1872, when record keeping began.


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

Highest Temperature -- 91°F in Franklin on April 26, 1986
Lowest Temperature -- 13°F in Highlands on April 1, 1987
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 9.5 inches in Franklin on April 4, 1987


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 18TH

Highest Temperature • 99°F in Abedeen, Moore County in 1896
Lowest Temperature • 12°F in Mount Mitchell, Yancey County in 1997
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 4.51 inches in Weldon, Halifax County in 1910
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 7.5 inches in Grandfather Mountain, Avery County in 2001


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

Highest Temperature -- 102°F in Carthage, Moore County on April 29, 1981
Lowest Temperature -- 0°F in Shelby, Cleveland County on April 29, 1927
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 19.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on April 11, 2003


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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Franklin Town Board Plans Budget Work Session Later Today

Franklin Aldermen and Staff will hold a budget work session later today in the board room on the lower level. The public is welcome to attend and observe the process that takes place at about this time every year. The work session is scheduled to start at 5:30 pm. If any documents are made available to the press, then Macon Media will try to digitize those public documents and publish those online in the interest of transparency.

You can check out a budget work session that took place last year for reference. There is also a copy of last year's budget proposal in the article. [LINK]

Macon Media will be there, both recording video and streaming live video of the proceedings. If you cannot be at the town hall, you can watch our live stream. [LINK]

A simultaneous meeting of the Macon County Commissioners will be taking place at the county courthouse. Macon Media will be streaming that special meeting, too. More on that at this link.

TOWN OF FRANKLIN BOARD OF ALDERMEN

AGENDA

APRIL 18, 2016

5:30 PM

1. Call to Order - Mayor Bob Scott

2. Projected Revenue for Fiscal Year 2016-2017

3. Debt Service for Fiscal Year 2016-2017

4. Discussion on Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2016-2017

5. Update on Crosswalk Project for Fiscal Year 2015-2016

6. Adjourn

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Macon County Weather Briefing Sunday, April 17, 2016

OVERVIEW

Dry high pressure will dominate the local weather pattern through midweek, with temperatures warming to above normal levels. A cold front will slip down from the north on Wednesday, bringing cooler conditions with it. Rain chances will increase later in the week.



TODAY

Sunny with highs near the mid 70s and calm winds rising to come from the south in the afternoon.



HAZARDS

No Hazardous Weather Expected. Relative Humidityvalues will be below 30% between 11 am and 7 pm. There may be an increased danger of fire spread if a fire gets out of prescribed boundaries due to undergrowth becoming dry.


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 (10.5 out of 12.0) with Oak, Sweetgum and Poplar being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to remain steady through Wednesday with pollen levels being between 10.5 and 11.5 on a scale of 0 to 12.


TONIGHT

Clear with lows near the mid 40s and southeast winds calming before midnight.


MONDAY

Sunny with highs near the mid 70s and variable light winds.


MONDAY NIGHT

Clear with lows near 50 and variable light winds.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 3 am on April 17, 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.




MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 17TH

Highest Temperature • 88°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2008
Lowest Temperature • 19°F in Highlands in 2014
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 3.06 inches at in Highlands in 1945
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • There has been no measurable snowfall on this date in Macon County since 1872, when record keeping began.


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

Highest Temperature -- 91°F in Franklin on April 26, 1986
Lowest Temperature -- 13°F in Highlands on April 1, 1987
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 9.5 inches in Franklin on April 4, 1987


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 17TH

Highest Temperature • 101°F in Abedeen, Moore County in 1922
Lowest Temperature • 12°F in Montreat, Yancey County in 1943
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.33 inches in Patterson, Caldwell County in 1969
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 4.0 inches in Grandfather Mountain, Avery County in 2008


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

Highest Temperature -- 102°F in Carthage, Moore County on April 29, 1981
Lowest Temperature -- 0°F in Shelby, Cleveland County on April 29, 1927
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 19.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on April 11, 2003


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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Macon County Weather Briefing Friday, April 15, 2016

OVERVIEW

A stationary front should remain to our south through Friday. A strong high pressure will build across the region through Saturday, persisting into early next week. It will allow warmer air to flow into the county until a weak cold front dips down from the north late Tuesday, bringing cooler temperatures in its wake.



TODAY

Mostly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph. Relative Humidity values will be dropping below 30% between 10 am and 5 pm today. If you do burn outdoors, please take extra precautions.



HAZARDS

No Hazardous Weather Expected. Relative Humidity values will be below 30% between 10 am and 5 pm. There may be an increased danger of fire spread if a fire gets out of prescribed boundaries due to undergrowth becoming dry.


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 (10.7 out of 12.0) with Oak, Sweetgum and Poplar being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to gradually increase with pollen levels being between 10.5 and 11.5 on a scale of 0 to 12.


TONIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near 40 and southeast winds shifting to come from the north before midnight.


SATURDAY

Mostly sunny with highs near the upper 60s and winds out of the east.



SATURDAY NIGHT

Mostly clear with lows near 40 and winds out of the east northeast.


SUNDAY

Sunny with highs near the low 70s and calm winds rising to come from the east before noon.


SUNDAY NIGHT

Clear with lows near the low 40s.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 3 am on April 15, 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 16th
7 am to 10 am

Macon TRACS is having a Fundraisng Pancake Breakfast at Fatz Cafe' in Franklin. Adults $7 and children $4.
Read more at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/04/macon-tracs-is-having-pancake.html

Monday, April 18th
5 pm

The Macon County Commissioners are holding a Special Meeting, the main purpose of which is to approve the Smoky Mountain Relay Race route through Macon County on April 22nd and 23rd. More information, including a draft approval letter, can be seen at http://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2016/04/macon-county-commissioners-plan-special.html

Saturday, May 7th
2 to 4 pm

8th Annual American Girl Tea Party

REACH of Macon County is excited to announce our upcoming 8th Annual American Girl Tea Party: "Be Courageous, Life's Path Is Always An Adventure", slated for Saturday, May 7, 2016 from 2:00 – 4:00 with doors opening at 1:30. The event will be held at Cowee Baptist Church and is a multigenerational event for individuals of all ages. We would like to cordially invite you to attend this years tea party which will focus on being courageous! The Staff at REACH are particularly excited about this year’s tea party as we have a myriad of fun activities planned including: a photo booth, a nail painting station, a doll hair station, a craft station, and so much more. We will also be raffling off the American Girl Doll of the Year, a stay at the Alpharetta Marriott ‘s American Girl Doll Suite, and an adult prize raffle. It is sure to be fun for girls of all ages!

More information and tickets are available at Eventbrite.


MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 15TH

Highest Temperature • 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Lab in 2001
Lowest Temperature • 20°F in Highlands in 1973
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 2.98 inches at in Highlands in 1997
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • There has been no measurable snowfall on this date in Macon County since 1872, when record keeping began.


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

Highest Temperature -- 91°F in Franklin on April 26, 1986
Lowest Temperature -- 13°F in Highlands on April 1, 1987
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 9.5 inches in Franklin on April 4, 1987


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 15TH

Highest Temperature • 96°F in Greenville, Pitt County in 1922
Lowest Temperature • 6°F in Montreat, Yancey County in 1943
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 4.00 inches in Lake Toxaway, Transylvania County in 1969
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 3.0 inches in Mount Mitchell, Yancey County in 2008


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

Highest Temperature -- 102°F in Carthage, Moore County on April 29, 1981
Lowest Temperature -- 0°F in Shelby, Cleveland County on April 29, 1927
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 19.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on April 11, 2003


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

Read More

Macon County Commissioners Plan Special Meeting for Monday, April 18th

The Macon County Commissioners will be holding a special meeting on Monday, April 18, 2016 at 5 pm to approve the running of the Smoky Mountain Relay Race through Macon County. Live coverage can be seen on Livestream.

A copy of the draft approval letter is below:



Sourwood Running, LLC
Attention: James C. Brendle, Registered Agent
2812 Old Stage Road
Central Point, OR 97502

Dear Jim:

It is Macon County’s understanding that Sourwood Running, LLC, has made request of the North Carolina Department of Transportation for permission for it to run a portion of its “Smoky Mountain Relay” running event which is scheduled to occur on April 22 and 23, 2016, through Macon County, North Carolina. Macon County is pleased that Sourwood Running, LLC, has chosen to make this request and that it has included Macon County within the “Smoky Mountain Relay” running course. As you know, Macon County is a beautiful county and our County welcomes Sourwood Running, LLC, the “Smoky Mountain Relay”, the runners and those associated with this great running event to come and enjoy Macon County during the “Smoky Mountain Relay” upon Sourwood Running, LLC, receiving all requisite approvals from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Thank you for providing the maps and description of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” course so that Macon County is able to see where the “Smoky Mountain Relay” course will be located in Macon County, NC.

We understand that as part of the permission request process with the North Carolina Department of Transportation that you need certain acknowledgments and approvals from Macon County as follows:

A. Written acknowledgment and approval of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” by Macon County given that a portion of this relay race will be situate in Macon County; and

B. Written acknowledgment and approval that the “Smoky Mountain Relay” and in particular that portion of the same which is to be situate in Macon County is supported by the Macon County Board of Commissioners.

Please accept this letter as acknowledgment and approval by Macon County and the Macon County Board of Commissioners of Sourwood Runners, LLC, an Oregon, LLC, conducting on April 22 and 23, 2016, that portion of the “Smoky Mountain Relay” which is to be situate in Macon County, North Carolina, subject to Sourwood Running, LLC receiving all requisite approvals from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

Again, welcome to Macon County.

Sincerely,


Derek Roland
Macon County Manager

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School Board hires Execptional Children's Director, Macon County Schools, and an Assistant Principal for South Macon Elementary School

The Macon County Board of Education held a work session on policy items yesterday afternoon. Macon Media was unable to cover the meeting due to a scheduling conflict. Here is a press release from the school system on action board members took after a closed session to discuss personnel matters:

Following our work session to discuss our board policy manual, the board entered into executive session pursuant to:

·         143-318.11.(a)(5) To establish, or to instruct the public body’s staff or negotiating agents concerning the position to be taken by or on behalf of the public body in negotiating (i) the price and other material terms of a contract or proposed contract for the acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease;

·         143.318.11.(a)(6) To consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee.

The Board returned to open session at which time on a motion made by Tommy Cabe and seconded by Stephanie McCall, the Personnel Report was approved as presented. The Personnel Report contained the following items:

·         Nancy Cantrell, Secondary Curriculum Director, Macon County Schools, Change in Status, to Exceptional Children’s Director, Macon County Schools, effective July 1, 2016

·         Landon Holland, Assistant Principal, South Macon Elementary School, effective August 1, 2016

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Macon TRACS is having a Pancake Fundraiser on April 16th

FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT

Macon TRACS
(Therapeutic Riding for Adults' and Children's Success)

Fundraisng Pancake Breakfast at Fatz Cafe' in Franklin

Saturday, April 16th 7 am to 10 am

Adult $7.00 Children $4.00

Macon TRACS, Inc. is a local 501-c-3 non profit providing Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy to special needs individuals in our community.

Visit their website to find out more about their activities. [LINK]

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PRSS RELEASE Results are In! Fontana Regional Library Survey Sheds Light on Community Priorities and Library Use

In advance of National Library Week, which was celebrated earlier this month, Fontana Regional Library conducted a survey of library users and non-users, asking them to name their top priorities for the community’s future. Library staff surveyed 1,001 people in Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties and learned that there are 5 important areas on people’s minds: education, employment and the economy, health and mental health, diversity, and connectivity.

Education is lifelong, whether it’s a traditional school environment, online learning, attending a workshop, or reading a magazine article to learn something new. The library works with local schools and homeschoolers to support teachers, students, and parents. Many students take classes online and need the computers and Internet connections available at the library. But you don’t have to be a student to find something new at the library. If you want to learn about what it’s like to hike the Appalachian Trail or how to stream music or use your iPhone, the library is the place to go to get the help you need to explore a new skill or interest.

Jobs and the economic health of a community are always important to the people who live and work there, and libraries play a role in building those connections. Throughout the country, 30 million people each year use library computers and Internet access for employment and career purposes. Your local public library has computers and Internet access to help with your resume writing or job search, as well as knowledgeable staff to assist you in the process. If you’re thinking about starting your own business, the library can help with that, too.

Everyone is concerned about health, either their own or that of their loved ones. Every year, 28 million people use libraries to research health and wellness issues, including medical conditions, medical procedures, diet or nutrition, finding health care providers, and assessing health insurance options. Locally, the library is a place to connect with a healthcare navigator to learn about the Affordable Care Act or the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP). Mental health groups like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) use the library for community classes and information meetings. In order to share your good health with others, you can even give blood at some local libraries.

Our communities are growing and changing. Libraries provide public spaces where everyone is welcome and where we can all learn about each other. With longtime residents joined by visitors, students and other newcomers eager to learn about mountain traditions and share their own, our local communities are growing and flourishing. Our libraries offer people opportunities to meet and socialize with others, whether attending a meeting, a social event, or a program featuring art, music, literature, or another cultural topic.

Affordable broadband connectivity is important for our rural communities. In some areas, the geography makes Internet access a challenge, or even an impossibility. In addition, many people cannot pay the cost of high-speed Internet access. Local libraries bridge these gaps, providing free access to the Internet and staff members trained to troubleshoot the most common connection problems. Whether a person needs to download an article for a school research project, visit Facebook to catch up with friends or family, or fill out an online job application, Library internet access allows people to link to the resources they need. Staff are always on hand to assist as necessary.

In addition to gauging community priorities, the local library survey asked why - or why not - people use the library. Of the 1,001 people who took the survey, 68% said they visit their library regularly. That percentage is far higher than the national average of only 46% of all Americans who report they’ve visited a library within the past year.

When people visit the library, they say they enjoy checking out books, magazines, and DVDs. They take advantage of the variety of programs, events, classes, and workshops, and they use computers, tablets, and wi-fi. Library users bring family and friends, and they enjoy using the various spaces at the library, including study rooms, meeting rooms, and reading areas.

For people who do not currently use the library, the reasons are varied: Some people said they feel they can get all the information they need from the Internet; some simply buy their own books, magazine subscriptions, music and movies; and some are just too busy to include a trip to the library in their hectic schedules.

“These responses from the people who do not use our services are nevertheless very important to us,” says Fontana Regional Library Director Karen Wallace. “They show us that we must continue to get the word out about what the library offers, including not only materials and programs but also staff expertise. For example, the library offers staff research assistance and basic technology training, as well as free access to subscription databases, which provide authoritative information that is otherwise only available for a fee. And for those too busy to come into the library, we offer e-Books, e-Magazines, e-Audiobooks, and even streamable video to our patrons. That’s right, many of our most dedicated users haven’t entered a library building in years!”

Fontana Regional Library and its locations in Sylva, Cashiers, Highlands, Franklin, Nantahala, and the Reading Rover bookmobile invite the public to come explore the world of today’s libraries. For more information about how a library can assist you, please call your local library.

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Macon County Commissioners Regular April 2016 Meeting

The Macon County Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6 pm in the Commissioners Boardroom on the Third Floor of the Macon County Courthouse.

The public agenda and the press packet are posted below. 

VIDEO

MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
APRIL 12, 2016
AGENDA

• Call to order and welcome by Chairman Corbin
  
• Announcements
  • NCACC Update Video
• Moment of Silence
  
• Pledge of Allegiance
  
• Public Hearing(s) - NONE
  
• Public Comment Period
  
• Additions to agenda
  
• Adjustments to and approval of the agenda
  
• Reports/Presentations
  • Recognition of the 100th Anniversary of Holly Springs School - Chuck Coburn, President, Holly Springs Community Development Club
  • Southwestern Commission Annual Report - Executive Director Ryan Sherby
  • Tour Macon County NC - Dale McGiboney
• Old Business
  
• New Business
  • Resolution and agreement regarding Macon County Business Development Center lease to Magnetic Wrench Manufacturing - Economic Development Director Tommy Jenkins
  • Proposed amendment to the Little Tennessee River Greenway Ordinance - County Attorney
  • Agreements regarding "Story Walk" - County Attorney
• Consent Agenda - Attachment #12
  All items below are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion. No separate discussion will be held except on request of a member of the Board of Commissioners.
  • Minutes of the March 8, 2016 regular meeting
  • Budget Amendments #168-174
  • Tax Releases
  • Tax Refund
• Appointments
  • Town of Franklin Planning Board and Board of Adjustment (ETJ representative)
• Closed session (if necessary)
  
• Adjourn/Recess

Press Packet April 2016 County Commissioner Meeting by Bobby Coggins

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Weather Briefing for Macon County Tuesday, April 12, 2016

OVERVIEW
A cold front is expected to cross the region today, taking the increased rain chances with it to our east and south. Our area should remain dry the rest of the week.


TODAY 

Patchy fog before 9 am, mostly cloudy with calm winds rising to come from the north by mid morning and rain expected before 2 pm, ending sometime in the late afternoon. Highs near the mid 60s. Rainfall amounts expected to be between a quarter and half an inch.



HAZARDS

No Hazardous Weather 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 low-medium (4.1 out of 12.0) with Oak, Juniper and Birch being the main producers of pollen. The pollen levels are expected to return to their usual springtime highs for the rest of the week with pollen levels being between 10 and 11 on a scale of 0 to 12.


TONIGHT

Partly cloudy with lows near the mid 40s and winds out of the northeast 5 to 10 mph before midnight, calming for a few hours around midnight, then picking up again before dawn.


WEDNESDAY

Mostly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and winds from the northeast becoming light and variable in the afternoon.



WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Mostly cloudy with lows near the mid to lower 40s and light wind out of the east.


THURSDAY
Partly sunny with highs near the mid 60s and a slight chance of rain around noon.


THURSDAY NIGHT
Mostly cloudy with lows near the low to mid 40s.



WEATHER ADVISORIES, WATCHES AND WARNINGS

• None in effect as of 3 am on April 12, 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.




MACON COUNTY WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 12TH
Highest Temperature • 87°F in Franklin in 2001
Lowest Temperature • 22°F in Franklin in 1973
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 2.73 inches at in Highlands in 1997
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • There has been no measurable snowfall on this date in Macon County since 1872, when record keeping began.


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

Highest Temperature -- 91°F in Franklin on April 26, 1986
Lowest Temperature -- 13°F in Highlands on April 1, 1987
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 9.5 inches in Franklin on April 4, 1987


NORTH CAROLINA WEATHER EXTREME ALMANAC FOR APRIL 12TH

Highest Temperature • 98°F in Kinston, Lenoir County in 1930
Lowest Temperature • 3°F in Montreat, Yancey County in 1940
Greatest One-Day Precipitation • 5.28 inches in Lake Toxaway, Transylvania County in 2013
Greatest One-Day Snowfall • 17.0 inches in Mount Mitchell, Yancey County in 1988


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

Highest Temperature -- 102°F in Carthage, Moore County on April 29, 1981
Lowest Temperature -- 0°F in Shelby, Cleveland County on April 29, 1927
Greatest One-Day Precipitation – 7.00 inches in Highlands on April 7, 1895
Greatest One-Day Snowfall – 19.0 inches on Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on April 11, 2003


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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