PRESS RELEASE
Nutrition Program
Macon County Center
828-349-2046
Join Ms. Carol Pitts, Nutrition Program Assistant, EFNEP/4-H & Youth, Macon County in “Kids in the Kitchen” virtual Summer Camp. If your child is 9-13 years of age and interested in a virtual summer camp from July 13-17, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., please call 349-2046 to register. Only 30 spaces are available, so don’t wait.
ABOUT NC STATE EXTENSION
NC State Extension is the educational outreach provider of North Carolina’s preeminent research enterprise – NC State. Extension translates research-based knowledge in the areas of agriculture, food and nutrition, and 4-H youth development into everyday solutions that help keep North Carolina growing. With local centers in all 100 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee, NC State Extension works in tandem with N.C. A&T State University, as well as federal, state and local governments, to form a strategic partnership called N.C. Cooperative Extension.
Frogtown Market Deli & Seafood is underwriting Macon Media for today. Call 369-9001 for free in-town delivery between 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday or visit their location at 61 South Patton Avenue in Franklin, The restaurant is currently only open for curbside service at this time.
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Wednesday from 10am to 7pm
Thursday and Friday from 10am to 8pm
Closed Saturday and Sunday
SpaceX is set to launch a Falcon 9 rocket today from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The launch is set to take place at 3:55pm Eastern Time, with a 15-minute window opening at that time, and there is a backup opportunity on Wednesday, July 1 if the launch needs to be pushed back. This rocket is carrying a GPS III Space Vehicle on behalf of the U.S. Space Force.
The launch today will add another GPS III satellite to the Space Force’s existing in-space GPS assets, which include three already on orbit, with another set to be deployed in 2022. This third-generation GPS satellite is three times more accurate, and eight times more resilient in terms of its ability to resist gaming efforts than prior versions. In addition to its use for military and defense applications, the GPS III satellite will also contribute to civilian GPS-based satellite navigation.
This launch will include a landing of the Falcon 9 booster, using SpaceX’s “Just Read the Instructions” drone landing ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Screen Captures from the live stream will be added at the end of this post after the flight. Be sure to check back by to see them.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---
DAY SPONSOR
Frogtown Market Deli & Seafood is underwriting Macon Media for today. Call 369-9001 for free in-town delivery between 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday or visit their location at 61 South Patton Avenue in Franklin, The restaurant is currently only open for curbside service at this time.
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Wednesday from 10am to 7pm
Thursday and Friday from 10am to 8pm
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Here is a discussion on the SpacePod Podcast About the Mission.
/center>
Wikipedia has a nice article on the GPS III Program [LINK]
Lockheed Martin is the manufacturer of the satellite [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
From above, Earth appears as a water planet with more than 71 percent of its surface covered with this vital resource for life. Water impacts climate, agriculture, transportation, industry and more. It inspires art and music. The Macon County Public Library, in cooperation with North Carolina Humanities Council, will examine water as an environmental necessity and an important cultural element as it hosts “Water/Ways,” a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street (MoMS) program. “Water/Ways” will be on view July 14 through August 24.
The Macon County Public Library and the surrounding community has been expressly chosen by the North Carolina Humanities Council to host “Water/Ways” as part of the Museum on Main Street program—a national/state/local partnership to bring exhibitions and programs to rural cultural organizations. The exhibition will tour six communities in North Carolina from July 14 ,2020 through April 25, 2021.
“Water/Ways” explores the endless motion of the water cycle, water’s effect on landscape, settlement and migration, and its impact on culture and spirituality. It looks at how political and economic planning have long been affected by access to water and control of water resources. Human creativity and resourcefulness provide new ways of protecting water resources and renewing respect for the natural environment.
Designed for small-town museums, libraries and cultural organizations, “Water/Ways” will serve as a community hub to inspire conversations about water’s impact on American culture. With the support and guidance of North Carolina Humanities Council, the Macon County Public Library is partnering with numerous local organizations and individuals. These groups are developing a film and photographic tour of the Little Tennessee and its watershed, virtual and in-person public programs and facilitating educational initiatives to raise people’s understanding about what water means culturally, socially and spiritually in their own community.
“We have a wonderful group of local partners helping us to safely engage with the community this summer. Because while we want to make the most of the six weeks that the Smithsonian exhibit is in Franklin, we also want to continue to support organizations like Macon County Schools STEM Program, GA/NC Bartram Trail Society, Friends of the Greenway (FROGS), Mainspring, and the Nikwasi Initiative that help us protect and enjoy our waterways now and in the future,” said Kristina Moe, Library Assistant at the Macon County Public Library. “We want to facilitate conversations about water and are developing local content and public programs to compliment the Smithsonian exhibition.” Such free events include documentary films, book discussions, and outdoor activities near the Little Tennessee River.
“Water/Ways” is part of the Smithsonian’s Think Water Initiative to raise awareness of water as a critical resource for life through exhibitions, educational resources and public programs. The public can participate in the conversation on social media at #thinkWater.
“Water/Ways” was inspired by an exhibition organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amnh.org), and the Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul (www.smm.org), in collaboration with Great Lakes Science Center, Cleveland; The Field Museum, Chicago; Instituto Sangari, Sao Paulo, Brazil; National Museum of Australia, Canberra; Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Canada; San Diego Natural History Museum; and Science Centre Singapore with PUB Singapore.
The exhibition is part of Museum on Main Street, a unique collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), state humanities councils across the nation, and local host institutions. To learn more about “Water/Ways” and other Museum on Main Street exhibitions, visit www.museumonmainstreet.org. Support for MoMS has been provided by the U.S. Congress.
SITES has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C., for 65 years. SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science and history, which are shown wherever people live, work and play. For exhibition description and tour schedules, visit www.sites.si.edu.
For more information, visit www.fontanalib.org or call the Macon County Public Library at (828) 524-3600. The Library is open by appointment Monday-Friday from 10:00am-5:00pm. DAY SPONSOR Frogtown Market Deli & Seafood is underwriting Macon Media for today. Call 369-9001 for free in-town delivery between 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday or visit their location at 61 South Patton Avenue in Franklin, The restaurant is currently only open for curbside service at this time. Hours of Operation: Monday through Wednesday from 10am to 7pm Thursday and Friday from 10am to 8pm Closed Saturday and Sunday For more information and to see a menu, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FrogtownMarket or their website at frogtownmarket.com Published at 2:38pm on Tuesday, June 30, 2020
Unsettled weather will continue through much of the week as an upper-level disturbance persists over the northeastern CONUS. A nearly stationary frontal boundary will remain just north of the region through at least Wednesday with plentiful moisture across the forecast area. Some degree of drying is expected Thursday and Friday, however things moisten back up over the weekend.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---
DAY SPONSOR
Frogtown Market Deli & Seafood is underwriting Macon Media for today. Call 369-9001 for free in-town delivery between 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday or visit their location at 61 South Patton Avenue in Franklin, The restaurant is currently only open for curbside service at this time.
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Wednesday from 10am to 7pm
Thursday and Friday from 10am to 8pm
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Fine particle pollution readings should return to the Code Green range as the Saharan dust exits the region.
District Attorney Ashley Welch Investigates Larger Spaces for Substitute Courtrooms During COVID-19 Pandemic [LINK]
The Governor Make Masks Mandatory
Governor Cooper has issued Executive Order 147, which extends Executive Order 141's Safer At Home restrictions and requires people, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings in public when social distancing is not possible. A copy of the executive order and the video briefing where he made the announcement are posted on Macon Media. [LINK]
Most recent Local Government Meetings
The Macon County Board of Commissioners met on June 2nd. [LINK]
The Franklin Town Council met on June 1st. Members of the public and local media outlets were allowed in the town hall. [LINK]
General Forecast Through Thursday Night
Today
Scattered showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 10am. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with highs ranging from the mid-to-upper 70s in the higher elevations to the mid-80s in the lower elevations. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight
Scattered showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog after 4am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Calm winds. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Wednesday
Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm, then showers and thunderstorms after noon. Patchy fog before 8am. Highs ranging from the low-to-mid 70s to the lower 80s. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the west around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Wednesday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely before midnight, then a chance of showers between midnight and 5am, then a chance of rain after 5am. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Calm winds. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Thursday
Rain and thunderstorms likely before 4pm, then showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly in the late afternoon. Mostly sunny, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Thursday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with lows in the 60s.
Hazards
A few strong to severe storms possible today and Wednesday. Also rounds of moderate to heavy rainfall over the upcoming week will lead to the possibility of localized flash flooding, especially in areas of poor drainage.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---
Weather Sponsor
Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.
Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/
All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.
---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---
Tropical Weather
(The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th)
Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Tue Jun 30 2020
For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico:
1. A trough of low pressure is located off the coast of North Carolina. Significant development of this system is not anticipated while it moves generally northeastward, away from the east coast of the United States and merges with a frontal boundary.
* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...10 percent.
End Daily Weather Segment
Begin COVID-19 Update
Here are some numbers from the CDC, the NCDHHS, and the Johns Hopkins Dashboard. Macon Media prefers the Johns Hopkins Dashboard because the counts include those non-residents that are left out of the CDC and NCDHHS numbers.
The CDC website [LINK] reports 62,142 people in North Carolina are infected, 1,322 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 63,484 confirmed cases from 886,305 targeted tests, and 843 hospitalized and 1,325 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 63,736 people infected and 1,357 deaths.
North Carolina Coronavirus Map and Case Count [LINK]
Data from Macon County Public Health as of June 27th [LINK]
Detected 281 (+7 in one day) (+51 in 7 days) (+126 in 14 days)
Actives 159 (-5 in one day) (-52 in 7 days) (+22 in 14 days)
Recovered 121 (+12 in one day) (+103 in 7 days) (+104 in 14 days)
Deceased 1 (0 in one day) (0 in 7 days) (0 in 14 days)
Testing Data
MCPH Tests 2,891 (+129 in one day) (+730 in 7 days) (+1,076 in 14 days)
Other Tests 828 (+144 in one day) (+348 in 7 days) (+416 in 14 days)
Total Tests 3,719 (+273 in one day) (+1,078 in 7 days) (+1,492 in 14 days)
Pending 288 (+86 in one day) (+113 in 7 days) (-31 in 14 days)
Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]
Coronavirus Q&A: Update From the CDC: Anne Schuchat
After 500,000 deaths, WHO warns worst of coronavirus pandemic is "yet to come" [LINK]
Air conditioning may be factor in COVID-19 spread in the South [LINK]
Gilead Draws Severe Flak For Exorbitant Pricing Of COVID-19 Drug Remdesivir [LINK]
Two Friends in Texas Were Tested for Coronavirus. One Bill Was $199. The Other? $6,408. [LINK]
Companies have raised prices on 245 drugs during pandemic, advocacy group says [LINK]
Lawmakers, families continue to push for changes at Holyoke Soldiers’ Home as death toll nears 100
N.J. restaurants NOT reopening for indoor dining this week after ‘knucklehead’ crowds at bars ruin it for everyone [LINK]
Oregon to require masks everywhere indoors starting July 1 [LINK]
Bill Gates says the coronavirus pandemic in the US is much worse than he anticipated [LINK]
Coronavirus Brings American Decline Out in the Open [LINK]
Riverside County, California - hospitals hit 99% capacity for ICUs. Only 5 empty beds for a 2.5 million population [LINK]
Over 200 Gym Patrons Potentially Exposed To Coronavirus At Planet Fitness In West Virginia [LINK]
McConnell says there should be ‘no stigma’ to wearing face masks during coronavirus pandemic [LINK]
‘Exhausted’ by customers’ rage over wearing masks, California taco chain shuts down [LINK]
Florida beaches will close for Fourth of July weekend over coronavirus concerns [LINK]
KC mayor told in text message he ‘should swing from a tree’ after issuing mask order [LINK]
Houston Mayor Announces Business 'Wall of Shame' For COVID-19 Non-Compliance [LINK]
Jacksonville changes course, issues face mask mandate [LINK]
Health officials link surge in coronavirus cases in Pittsburgh area to bars, not protests [LINK]
At least 143 people at the University of Georgia test positive for Covid-19 [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
Here is an update for this morning on how humanity is dealing with the COVID-19 Pandemic that is caused by SARS CoV-2. The story is told through links to news outlets, research papers, and videos. They are presented without comment. First Section is a repeat of the local and state numbers that were in this morning, briefing in the news and weather report on Macon Media.
Here are some numbers from the CDC, the NCDHHS, and the Johns Hopkins Dashboard. Macon Media prefers the Johns Hopkins Dashboard because the counts include those non-residents that are left out of the CDC and NCDHHS numbers.
The CDC website [LINK] reports 58,816 people in North Carolina are infected, 1,303 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 60,537 confirmed cases from 855,151 targeted tests, and 888 hospitalized and 1,318 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 60,812 people infected and 1,812 deaths.
Data from Macon County Public Health as of June 27th [LINK]
Detected 274 (+2 in one day) (+21 in 7 days) (+52 in 14 days)
Actives 164 (+2 in one day) (-49 in 7 days) (-39 in 14 days)
Recovered 109 (0 in one day) (+70 in 7 days) (+91 in 14 days)
Deceased 1 (0 in one day) (0 in 7 days) (0 in 14 days)
Testing Data
MCPH Tests 2,762 (0 in one day) (+334 in 7 days) (+728 in 14 days)
Other Tests 684 (0 in one day) (+52 in 7 days) (+252 in 14 days)
Total Tests 3,446 (0 in one day) (+386 in 7 days) (+980 in 14 days)
Pending 202 (-38 in one day) (+21 in 7 days) (+97 in 14 days)
Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]
---BEGIN DAY SPONSOR---
DAY SPONSOR
Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.
Their phone number is 371-4718.
They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.
---END DAY SPONSOR---
Research Papers, Clinical Trials and News About Such
SARS-CoV-2 has been circulating in northern Italy since December 2019: evidence from environmental monitoring [LINK]
Weekly COVID-19 testing with household quarantine and contact tracing is feasible and would probably end the epidemic [LINK]
The Use of Povidone Iodine Nasal Spray and Mouthwash During the Current COVID-19 Pandemic May Reduce Cross Infection and Protect Healthcare Workers [LINK]
Predicting the Trajectory of Any COVID19 Epidemic From the Best Straight Line [LINK]
A plea for avoiding systematic intubation in severely hypoxemic patients with COVID-19-associated respiratory failure [LINK]
The BCG vaccine does not protect against COVID-19: Applying an economist’s toolkit to a medical question [LINK]
Modified Vaccinia Ankara Based SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Expressing Full-Length Spike Induces Strong Neutralizing Antibody Response [LINK]
Deep phenotyping of 34,128 patients hospitalised with COVID-19 and a comparison with 81,596 influenza patients in America, Europe and Asia: an international network study [LINK]
A universal design of betacoronavirus vaccines against COVID-19, MERS and SARS [LINK]
Safety Update: COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma in 20,000 Hospitalized Patients [LINK]
Africa, African-Americans, and the Coronavirus Vaccines [LINK]
Can tocilizumab calm the cytokine storm of COVID-19? [LINK]
Sensitivity analysis of the effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 in Europe [LINK]
Sex, age, and hospitalization drive antibody responses in a COVID-19 convalescent plasma donor population [LINK]
Mental Health and COVID-19
Warning signs: more Canadians thinking about suicide during pandemic [LINK]
News from News Outlets and Medical Professions
Dr John Campbell
Global Update and US Focus
Global Update, Australia, UK
A volunteer 'sewing squad' distributed more than 55,000 masks to vulnerable communities in 3 months. They're not slowing down [LINK]
ER doctor’s plea: ‘Stop going to politicians for news about science' [VIDEO]
How the Coronavirus Short-Circuits the Immune System In a disturbing parallel to H.I.V., the coronavirus can cause a depletion of important immune cells, recent studies found. [LINK]
We are in ‘much more dire situation than we were back in March’ says global health policy expert [LINK]
Coronavirus hospitalizations once again at all-time low in NY state [LINK]
Houston hospitals hit 100% base ICU capacity. Then they stopped reporting data. [LINK]
It’s Official—Americans Won’t Be Allowed Into Europe When It Reopens [LINK]
Florida Governor on rising coronavirus cases: you ‘can’t control’ what young people do [LINK]
VP Mike Pence: "Wear a mask."
Speaking at a news conference with TX Gov. Greg Abbott, Vice President Mike Pence said Americans should practice good hygiene, wear masks, and socially distance whenever possible.
China locks down 400,000 people after virus spike near Beijing [LINK]
The data is in: Fox News may have kept millions from taking the coronavirus threat seriously [LINK]
80% of US adults report wearing a mask all, most, or some of the time when in stores or other businesses. Only 7% say they never do. [LINK]
California Orders All Bars Closed in Los Angeles County(10 million people)and 6 other Other Counties to Combat Virus Spread [LINK]
Gov. McMaster declares new state of emergency, S.C. surpasses 30,000 COVID-19 cases [LINK]
U.S. virus surge likely to continue for weeks, experts say [LINK]
Teachers in Fairfax revolt against fall plans, refusing to teach in-person [LINK]
Coronavirus vaccine may not be enough to achieve herd immunity in U.S. [LINK]
Texas couple married for 53 years dies from coronavirus while holding hands [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
An upper-level disturbance arriving from the northwest will produce another round of showers and thunderstorms across the region today. Unsettled weather will continue throughout the remainder of the week as a front is expected to stall just north of the region and moisture persists across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---
DAY SPONSOR
Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.
Their phone number is 371-4718.
They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.
---END DAY SPONSOR SEGMENT---
Air Quality Alert
An Air Quality Action Day means that Fine Particulates concentrations within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards.
Forecast Valid: Monday, June 29, 2020
Today's Air Quality Conditions: Particle pollution readings are in the Code Orange range today over most of the state today owing to a mass of Saharan dust moving across the state. Lower readings in the mid/upper-Code Yellow range are presently being observed over the Mountains and southern Piedmont, though hourly readings may jump intermittently through the rest of today; thus, the Code Orange Air Quality Alert will remain in place through the rest of today statewide. Ozone readings are in the Code Green range statewide today.
District Attorney Ashley Welch Investigates Larger Spaces for Substitute Courtrooms During COVID-19 Pandemic [LINK]
The Governor Make Masks Mandatory
Governor Cooper has issued Executive Order 147, which extends Executive Order 141's Safer At Home restrictions and requires people, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings in public when social distancing is not possible. A copy of the executive order and the video briefing where he made the announcement are posted on Macon Media. [LINK]
Most recent Local Government Meetings
The Macon County Board of Commissioners met on June 2nd. [LINK]
The Franklin Town Council met on June 1st. Members of the public and local media outlets were allowed in the town hall. [LINK]
General Forecast Through Wednesday Night
Today (Air Quality Alert- Saharan Dust Storm)
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Areas of fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with highs ranging from the mid-to-upper 70s in the higher elevations to the mid-to-upper 80s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight (Air Quality Alert- Saharan Dust Storm)
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Light winds out of the northwest. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday
A chance of showers before 11am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11am and 2pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Partly sunny, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. Light winds out of the northwest. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday Night
Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 11pm, then a chance of showers after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Calm winds. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Wednesday
A chance of showers before 11am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11am and 2pm, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Highs ranging from the low-to-mid-70s to the low-to-mid-80s. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Wednesday Night
Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 8pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 8pm. Lows in the 60s. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Hazards
Scattered thunderstorms will develop across the region today, mainly this afternoon and evening. These thunderstorms will produce dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning, locally heavy rainfall, and briefly gusty winds. A few of the storms may become severe, with damaging wind gusts the primary threat. Large hail is possible as well. The greatest chance of severe thunderstorms will be across Upstate South Carolina and extreme northeast Georgia. Any thunderstorms repeatedly affecting the same location may produce localized flash flooding.
Additional rounds of afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday. A damaging wind threat will continue with any of the stronger storms, and flash flooding may develop with any thunderstorms repeatedly affecting the same locations through the middle of the week.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---
Weather Sponsor
Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.
Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/
All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.
---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---
Tropical Weather
(The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th)
Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Mon Jun 29 2020
For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico:
1. Shower and thunderstorm activity associated with a tropical wave located over the central tropical Atlantic has increased during the past few hours. Some slight development of the wave is possible during the next day or so while it moves westward to west-northwestward at around 20 mph. Strong upper-level winds are forecast to inhibit further development by mid-week.
* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...10 percent.
2. An area of low pressure is forecast to form off of the southeastern coast of the United States on Tuesday. Some development of this system could then occur later this week as it moves generally northeastward well offshore of the east coast of the United States.
* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.
End Daily Weather Segment
Begin COVID-19 Update (a more in-depth article will be posted later this morning)
Here are some numbers from the CDC, the NCDHHS, and the Johns Hopkins Dashboard. Macon Media prefers the Johns Hopkins Dashboard because the counts include those non-residents that are left out of the CDC and NCDHHS numbers.
The CDC website [LINK] reports 58,816 people in North Carolina are infected, 1,303 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 60,537 confirmed cases from 855,151 targeted tests, and 888 hospitalized and 1,318 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 60,812 people infected and 1,812 deaths.
Data from Macon County Public Health as of June 27th [LINK]
Detected 274 (+2 in one day) (+21 in 7 days) (+52 in 14 days)
Actives 164 (+2 in one day) (-49 in 7 days) (-39 in 14 days)
Recovered 109 (0 in one day) (+70 in 7 days) (+91 in 14 days)
Deceased 1 (0 in one day) (0 in 7 days) (0 in 14 days)
Testing Data
MCPH Tests 2,762 (0 in one day) (+334 in 7 days) (+728 in 14 days)
Other Tests 684 (0 in one day) (+52 in 7 days) (+252 in 14 days)
Total Tests 3,446 (0 in one day) (+386 in 7 days) (+980 in 14 days)
Pending 202 (-38 in one day) (+21 in 7 days) (+97 in 14 days)
Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
Weak high pressure persists over the southern Appalachians today. A passing upper-level disturbance will lead to an increase in showers and thunderstorms on Sunday. Unsettled weather will continue throughout next week as a back door front moves south into the region and stalls. Daily afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms will arise in the warm and humid airmass across the area.
Air Quality Alert
An Air Quality Action Day means that Fine Particulates concentrations within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards due to dust from a dust storm in the Sahara Desert.
District Attorney Ashley Welch Investigates Larger Spaces for Substitute Courtrooms During COVID-19 Pandemic [LINK] https://thunderpigblog.blogspot.com/2020/06/district-attornet-ashley-welch.html
The Governor Make Masks Mandatory
Governor Cooper has issued Executive Order 147, which extends Executive Order 141's Safer At Home restrictions and requires people, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings in public when social distancing is not possible. A copy of the executive order and the video briefing where he made the announcement are posted on Macon Media. [LINK]
Most recent Local Government Meetings
The Macon County Board of Commissioners met on June 2nd. [LINK]
The Franklin Town Council met on June 1st. Members of the public and local media outlets were allowed in the town hall. [LINK]
General Forecast Through Tuesday Night
Today (Air Quality Alert- Saharan Dust Storm)
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with highs ranging from the mid-70s in the higher elevations to the mid-80s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight (Air Quality Alert- Saharan Dust Storm)
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 1am and 3am. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Winds out of the southwest around 5 mph becoming calm before midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8am, then a chance of showers between 8am and 11am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11am. Mostly cloudy, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. Calm wind becoming northwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with low in the 60s. Light winds out of the north. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Tuesday
A chance of showers before 11am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11am and 1pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with highs ranging from the mid-to-upper 70s to the mid-to-upper 80s. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Tuesday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the mid-60s. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Hazards
We are under a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for today due to dust and fine particulate matter from a cloud of dust that has traveled across the Atlantic, through the Gulf of Mexico, and up through the Mississippi Valley to us in western North Carolina. Those with breathing problems or allergies may experience difficulty breathing or sinus problems due to the dust in the air. Please limit your time outdoors today.
Thunderstorms will develop and arrive from the northwest today across the region. Mountain locations may see thunderstorms starting this morning, while foothill and Piedmont areas will see thunderstorm coverage mainly during the afternoon and evening hours. Any of the thunderstorms that form today will have the potential to produce frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, gusty winds, and locally heavy rainfall. Several could become strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts and large hail possible. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, especially across western North Carolina and the northern Upstate of South Carolina late today. The thunderstorms may redevelop and persist well into the nighttime hours.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---
Weather Sponsor
Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.
Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/
All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.
---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---
Tropical Weather
(The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th)
Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Sun Jun 28 2020
For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 5 days.
End Daily Weather Segment
Begin COVID-19 Update
Here are some numbers from the CDC, the NCDHHS, and the Johns Hopkins Dashboard. Macon Media prefers the Johns Hopkins Dashboard because the counts include those non-residents that are left out of the CDC and NCDHHS numbers.
The CDC website [LINK] reports 58,816 people in North Carolina are infected, 1,303 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 60,537 confirmed cases from 855,151 targeted tests, and 888 hospitalized and 1,318 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 60,812 people infected and 1,812 deaths.
Data from Macon County Public Health as of June 27th [LINK]
Detected 272 (+7 in one day) (+20 in 7 days)
Recovered 109 (+7 in one day) (+70 in 7 days)
Deceased 1 (0 in one day) (0 in 7 days)
Actives 162 (0 in one day) (-50 in 7 days)
Testing Data
MCPH Tests 2,762 (0 in one day) (+334 in 7 days)
Other Tests 684 (0 in one day) (+52 in 7 days)
Total Tests 3,446 (0 in one day) (+386 in 7 days)
Pending 240 (-78 in one day) (+87 in 7 days)
Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]
(this section is repeated from yesterday)
White House COronavirus Taskforce Briefing for June 26th
(this is the first time one of the task force videos have not been uploaded or streamed on the White Channel)
North Carolina Coronavirus Briefing
Coronavirus Briefing: Dr. Mandy Cohen (06/26/20)
English Version
Spanish Version
Dr John Campbell
(June 24th) Americas update and vaccine development
Coronavirus Pandemic Update 89: COVID 19 Infections Rising in Many States; Dexamethasone Cautions
One in 20 people will need hospital care if they get Covid-19, study says [LINK]
Still Confused About Masks? Here’s the Science Behind How Face Masks Prevent Coronavirus [LINK]
Mississippi health official blames spiraling US COVID-19 cases on people ignoring masks and social distancing, says only 'catastrophe' will make them change [LINK]
Inside the body, the coronavirus is even more sinister than scientists had realized [LINK]
The US needs to consider "flooding the system with testing," Fauci says [LINK]
Fauci Warns That New Outbreaks Could Engulf the U.S. [LINK]
Unmasked protestors gather downtown Raleigh NC demand end to covid rules [LINK]
Coronavirus updates: 82% of Alabama's ICU beds full as COVID-19 cases soar [LINK]
Texas governor says "If I could go back and redo anything, I would slow down the reopening of bars" [LINK]
Texas Closes all Bars. Reduces Restaurant Capacity. [LINK]
Surprise party in Texas leaves 18 people sick with coronavirus, grandfather fighting for his life [LINK]
Texas' coronavirus surge is 'absolutely horrifying,' infectious disease doctor says [LINK]
Gov. Gavin Newsom tells CA county to shut back down amid COVID-19 surge [LINK]
Co-founder of ReOpen Maryland says he has COVID-19, but won’t help contact tracing efforts [LINK]
Miami will begin issuing fines of up to $500 for not wearing a mask in public [LINK]
Miami-Dade Beaches to Close for Fourth of July Weekend Over Coronavirus Concerns [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
Weak high pressure persists over the southern Appalachians today. A passing upper-level disturbance will lead to an increase in showers and thunderstorms on Sunday. Unsettled weather will continue throughout next week as a back door front moves south into the region and stalls. Daily afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms will arise in the warm and humid airmass across the area.
District Attorney Ashley Welch Investigates Larger Spaces for Substitute Courtrooms During COVID-19 Pandemic [LINK]
The Governor Make Masks Mandatory
Governor Cooper has issued Executive Order 147, which extends Executive Order 141's Safer At Home restrictions and requires people, with some exceptions, to wear face coverings in public when social distancing is not possible. A copy of the executive order and the video briefing where he made the announcement are posted on Macon Media. [LINK]
Most recent Local Government Meetings
The Macon County Board of Commissioners met on June 2nd. [LINK]
The Franklin Town Council met on June 1st. Members of the public and local media outlets were allowed in the town hall. [LINK]
General Forecast Through Saturday Night
Today
A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 4pm. Partly sunny, with highs ranging from the lower 70s in the higher elevations to near 80 in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph in the lower elevations and 10 to 15 mph in the higher elevations, with gusts as high as 20 in the lower elevations and 30 mph in the higher elevations. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight
A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with lows ranging from the lower 60s in the lower elevations to the upper 50s in the higher elevations. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph in the lower elevations and 10 to 15 mph in the higher elevations mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Sunday
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 2pm and 3pm. Mostly cloudy, with highs ranging from the lower 70s in the higher elevations to the lower 80s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Sunday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s. Winds out of the west around 5 mph becoming calm by midnight.
Monday
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s.
Monday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with lows in the 60s.
Hazards
Isolated to scattered thunderstorms will develop this afternoon and evening. These thunderstorms will produce occasional cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, locally heavy rainfall, and briefly gusty winds.
---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---
Weather Sponsor
Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.
Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/
All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.
---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---
Tropical Weather
(The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th)
Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Sat Jun 27 2020
For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 5 days.
End Daily Weather Segment
Begin COVID-19 Update
Here are some numbers from the CDC, the NCDHHS, and the Johns Hopkins Dashboard. Macon Media prefers the Johns Hopkins Dashboard because the counts include those non-residents that are left out of the CDC and NCDHHS numbers.
The CDC website [LINK] reports 56,174 people in North Carolina are infected, 1,271 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 57,183 confirmed cases from 811,278 targeted tests, and 891 hospitalized and 1,290 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 57,472 people infected and 1,336 deaths.
Data from Macon County Public Health as of June 25th [LINK]
Detected 265 (+1 in one day) (+13 in 7 days)
Recovered 109 (-4 in one day) (+70 in 7 days)
Deceased 1 (0 in one day) (0 in 7 days)
Actives 155 (-4 in one day) (-57 in 7 days)
Testing Data
MCPH Tests 2,762 (+107 in one day) (+334 in 7 days)
Other Tests 684 (+37 in one day) (+52 in 7 days)
Total Tests 3,446 (+107 in one day) (+386 in 7 days)
Pending 318 (+73 in one day) (+131 in 7 days)
Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]
White House COronavirus Taskforce Briefing for June 26th
(this is the first time one of the task force videos have not been uploaded or streamed on the White Channel)
North Carolina Coronavirus Briefing
Coronavirus Briefing: Dr. Mandy Cohen (06/26/20)
English Version
Spanish Version
Dr John Campbell
(June 24th) Americas update and vaccine development
Coronavirus Pandemic Update 89: COVID 19 Infections Rising in Many States; Dexamethasone Cautions
One in 20 people will need hospital care if they get Covid-19, study says [LINK]
Still Confused About Masks? Here’s the Science Behind How Face Masks Prevent Coronavirus [LINK]
Mississippi health official blames spiraling US COVID-19 cases on people ignoring masks and social distancing, says only 'catastrophe' will make them change [LINK]
Inside the body, the coronavirus is even more sinister than scientists had realized [LINK]
The US needs to consider "flooding the system with testing," Fauci says [LINK]
Fauci Warns That New Outbreaks Could Engulf the U.S. [LINK]
Unmasked protestors gather downtown Raleigh NC demand end to covid rules [LINK]
Coronavirus updates: 82% of Alabama's ICU beds full as COVID-19 cases soar [LINK]
Texas governor says "If I could go back and redo anything, I would slow down the reopening of bars" [LINK]
Texas Closes all Bars. Reduces Restaurant Capacity. [LINK]
Surprise party in Texas leaves 18 people sick with coronavirus, grandfather fighting for his life [LINK]
Texas' coronavirus surge is 'absolutely horrifying,' infectious disease doctor says [LINK]
Gov. Gavin Newsom tells CA county to shut back down amid COVID-19 surge [LINK]
Co-founder of ReOpen Maryland says he has COVID-19, but won’t help contact tracing efforts [LINK]
Miami will begin issuing fines of up to $500 for not wearing a mask in public [LINK]
Miami-Dade Beaches to Close for Fourth of July Weekend Over Coronavirus Concerns [LINK]
CROWDFUNDING 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. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.
To submit releases for publication, email me here. This includes Guest Commentaries. If you have a photo that you wish me to use with your press release or article, please send it to me, otherwise I'll use whatever I feel best fits your article.
Letters to the Editor
Send Letters to the Editor to editor@MaconMedia. Limit is one submission every seven days. You may include photos, video or audio. Submissions will be edited for vulgarity or similar reasons. Limit submissions to less than 10,000 words. LOL
For a quicker response, send me a message on Twitter or add me to a circle on Google Plus and send it just to me.
If you have been sending me press releases via my private email address, that will continue to work just fine. The Twitter or Google+ account will get my attention quicker.
NON PROFIT OR CIVIC EVENTS
Macon Media will promote nonprofit or civic events if contacted by an organizer of the event. This includes rallies, protests, community forums, and parades. Messeanger Link http://m.me/MaconMediaNews
If you're of a mind, and can afford it, a dollar a month (or more) from enough people will make a huge difference in improving the quality of coverage of local meetings and events, as well as allowing remote weather stations and weather cams to be deployed throughout the county that you will be able to access online.
Currently, 20 people have pledged $99 a month. This is a tremendous help. Please visit www.patreon.com/MaconMedia for more information on how to contribute.
Businesses can underwrite this coverage by day sponsorships, surplus equipment donations, etc. Inquire at editor@maconmedia.com for more information.
Donations accepted for the purpose of supporting this blog and activities related to improving it's operations and my coverage of local festivals and local government meetings.
Posts
