Agenda and Agenda Packet for August 2026 Meeting Macon County Board of Commissioners

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6pm in the county courthouse. There will likely be a large number present due to a public hearing about data centers and discussions about the Macon County Public Library and flock cameras being on the agenda, so arrive early, before 5.30pm, especially if you want a good seat or intend to sign up to speak. Macon Media intends to be there before 5pm.

The county will livestream the meeting, but be advised that their audio is almost always less than adequate and you will not be able to hear commissioners, staff, and members of the public who do not speak into the microphones. Those of you who are forced into the overfill room if we do not go upstairs need to let the deputies know if you cannot hear what is being said during the meeting.

Livestream | Macon County



Macon Media will not attempt a livestream on facebook due to technical difficulties. I will have a video on Wednesday or Thursday.

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Public Agenda
August 11, 2026 at 6:00 PM


1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Young

2. Announcements
3. Moment of Silence
4. Pledge of Allegiance
5. Public Hearing(s)
a. To Consider Amendment of Chapter 157 of the Macon County Code of Ordinances to Include Update Definitions of Server-Based Facilities
Note: Following the close of the public hearing, the board may take action.

6. Additions to agenda
7. Public Comment Period
8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
a. GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY 2025 – County Manager Warren Cabe
b. Presentation of Proposed Schedule of Values and Schedule Public Hearing – Tax Administrator Abby Braswell

10. Old Business
a. Carson Convenience Center Design Presentation – Mr. Cabe

11. New Business
a. Discussion and Consideration of the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council FY 2026-2027 Certification and Annual Plan – Division of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Area Consultant Lorraine Williams
b. Discussion Regarding Outside Agency Funding Requests – Mr. Cabe
c. Consideration to Declare County-Owned Property Surplus and Advertise for Public Bid – Mr. Cabe and Attorney Eric Ridenour

12. 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.
a. Minutes of the July 11, 2026, Regular Meeting
b. Budget Amendments #20-29
c. Grant Project Ordinance – 2027 Urgent Repair Program
d. Community Advisory Board Annual Report
e. Fireworks Permit – Town of Franklin
f. Nantahala Community Development Club Lease Extension
g. Economic Development Commission Updated Bylaws
h. Macon County Transit Updated Drug and Alcohol Policy
i. Tax releases for the month of July 2026 in the amount of $1,061.95
j. Monthly ad valorem tax collection report – no action necessary

13. Appointments
a. CHSA Board (2 seats)

14. Closed session as allowed under NCGS 143-318.11

15. Adjourn/Recess

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Agenda Packet

(Download 128 Page PDF) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1smc8zPpdCUBWEKfBnuvWvXjFTL8IJYJw/view?usp=sharing

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Published at 3.30pm on Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Macon County Board of Commissioners Downloadable Agenda Packet and Live Video of Meeting

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6pm. Macon Media cannot be there tonight. You can watch the meeting live via a player embedded below and peruse the supporting document further down the page.

Board of Commissioners (05-12-2026) | Macon County

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Public Agenda Agenda

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Young

2. Announcements

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearing(s) - None

6. Additions to agenda

7. Public Comment Period

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
a. Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Presentation - County Manager Warren Cabe

10. Old Business
a. Approval of Updated Macon County Recreation Commission Bylaws - Parks and Recreation Director Seth Adams
b. Update on Quarter-Cent Sales Tax - Commissioner Shields

11. New Business
a. Discussion and Approval of Resolution Authorizing County Manager to Convey Property to Pine Grove School Community Club, Inc. - Mr. Cabe and Attorney Eric Ridenour
b. Discussion and Consideration of Macon Early College Repair Bid - Planning, Permitting, and Development Director, Joe Allen
c. Discussion and Consideration of Pickleball Court Bid – Mr. Allen

12. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes of the April 14, 2026, Regular Meeting
b. Budget amendments #312-316 and #318
c. FY 2025-2026 Distribution Request-Public School Building Capital Fund-North Carolina Education Lottery
d. Fireworks Permit - Town of Franklin
e. Fireworks Permit - Nantahala Fire and Rescue
f. Monthly Ad valorem Tax Collection Report April 2026

13. Appointments
a. Child Fatality Task Force – 2 seats
b. Recreation Commission - 7 Seats

14. Closed Session as allowed under NCGS 143-318.11

15. Adjourn/Recess

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Agenda Packet | (Download 68-page PDF)

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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.

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Published at 4.50pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Author: Bobby Coggins

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April 2026 Franklin Town Council Agenda

The Franklin Town Council will be having their monthly meeting for April 2026 tonight at 6pm. the public agenda and agenda packet are posted below. Macon Media is unable to stream live coverage of the meeting, but will post articles and video later in the week.

PUBLIC AGENDA

1. Call to Order - Mayor Stacy Guffey

2. Pledge of Allegiance - Vice-Mayor Mike Lewis

3. Adoption of the April 6, 2026 Town Council Agenda - Town Council

4. Approval of the Consent Agenda for April 6, 2026 - Town Council
A.) Approval of Minutes
1. February 20 and 21 Special Called Meeting Minutes - Town Council Retreat
2. March 2, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes

B.) Budget Amendment

C.) Refer Rezoning to Planning Board for Review

5. Introduction/Proclamation
A.) Chad Stone, Firefighter - introduction by Interim Fire Chief Justin Setser
B.) Proclamation - Local News Day - April 9, 2026 - Mayor Stacy Guffey

6. Public Session

7. Items from Council
A.) Revisit Resolution designating Main Street as Uptown and establishing the areas of Downtown East and Downtown West Franklin for Official and Promotional Use - Vice-Mayor Mike Lewis

B.) Appointment of Councilman Travis Higdon as Alternate to the Regional Planning Organization (RPO) - Mayor Stacy Guffey

C.) Appointment of Main Street Beautification Town Council Subcommittee - Mayor Stacy Guffey

D.) Discuss Litter Clean Up - Mayor Stacy Guffey

8. New Business
A.) Request Approval of Change Order 1 for Clearwell and High Service Pump Station Project - Town Manager Amie Owens

B.) Request Approval of Amendment to Capital Project Ordinance and Budget Amendment for Clearwell and High Service Pump Station - Town Manager Amie Owens

C.) Request Approval of Contract Amendment and Budget Amendment to provide Davis-Bacon Administration as a requirement of the EPA grant funding - Town Manager Amie Owens

D.) Request Approval of Change Orders 1 and 2 for Sunnyside Inclusive Play Area Project - Town Manager Amie Owens

E.) Request Approval of Amendment to Capital Project Ordinance and Budget Amendment for Sunnyside Inclusive Play Area Project - Town Manager Amie Owens

F.) Request Approval of multi-year contract for software for Genoptic Smart Display - Town Manager Amie Owens

G.) Request Approval of Purchase of Equipment for Fire Department - Town Manager Amie Owens

H.) Request Approval of Letter of Support for Macon County PARTF Grant Application - Town Manager Amie Owens

I.) Request Approval of Annual Audit Contract with Martin Starnes & Associates, CPAs, PA - Finance Director Sarah Bishop

9. Departmental Updates
A.) Finance / Main Street – Sarah Bishop, Finance Director
B.) Planning / IT / Facilities – Justin Setser, Town Planner/IT Director
C.) Police Department – Chief Devin Holland
D.) Website Preview – Town Manager Amie Owens

10. Announcements
A.) Next Town Council Meeting is Monday, May 4, 2026
B.) Special Called Meeting - Budget Discussion - Monday, April 20, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in Town Hall Board Room - notice will be posted

11. Closed Session
Enter into Closed Session under North Carolina General Statute § 143-318.11(a)(3) Attorney-Client Privilege

12. Adjourn

AGENDA PACKET [Download 122-page PDF] 

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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.

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Published at 3.20pm on Monday, April 06, 2026
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Macon County Board of Commissioners - January 2026 Regular Meeting

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The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6pm for their regularly scheduled meeting forJanuary 2025.

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A link to watch the meeting live is embedded below, followed by the public agenda and agenda package for you to follow along. Due to illness, Macon Media will most likely not be present to record our own footage of the meeting.

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PUBLIC AGENDA

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Young

2. Announcements
(A) Introduce Ms. Kimberly Dills as the new Consolidated Human Services Agency (CHSA) Director. Reminder that Macon Public Health and Macon County Animal Services became a Consolidated Human Services Agency on January 13, 2026.
(B) The Hurricane Helene grants application to repair, renovate, or replace infrastructure ineligible for FEMA Public Assistance funds approved at the December 9, 2025, meeting resulted in Macon County being awarded $1,123,315.31 for four project locations, including Cullasaja Park, the Boardwalk on the Greenway at Arthur Drake Rd, Parker Meadows, and Tassee Park.

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearing(s) – None

6. Additions to agenda

7. Public Comment Period

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
(A) Presentation of the FY25 Audit – Bao Thao, Martin Starnes & Associates, CPAs, P.A.

10. Old Business
(A) Update and Discussion on Fontana Regional Library Inter-Local Agreement – County Manager Warren Cabe and County Attorney Eric Ridenour
(B) Consideration of Amended Resolution in Support of Revising the Macon County Board of Commissioners Election System and to Schedule a Public Hearing – Attorney Ridenour

11. New Business
(A) Discussion of the Opioid Funding Process and Establishment of a Strategic Planning Committee – Mr. Cabe
(B) Approval of Consolidated Human Services Agency Board Policies – Tammy Keezer
(C) Helene Recovery Recycling Infrastructure Grant – Mr. Cabe
(D) Discussion Regarding Personnel Matters – Sheriff Brent Holbrooks

12. 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.

(A) Minutes of the December 9, 2025, Regular Meeting
(B) Budget Amendments #158-#163 and #165-#166
(C) Request for Relief of the taxing unit for collection of Real Estate Taxes that are Ten Years Past Due in the amount of $3,926.31
(D) Approval of Destruction of Solid Waste Records Meeting the Records Retention Guidelines
(E) Tax releases for the month of December 2025 in the amount of $627.49
(F) Monthly ad valorem tax collection report – no action necessary

13. Appointments
(A) Consolidated Health Board – 4 Seats
(B) Community Advisory Committee – 1 Seat

14. Closed session as allowed under NCGS 143-318.11

15. Adjourn/Recess

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AGENDA PACKET [DOWNLOAD 103 page PDF] 

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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.

Become a Patron!


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Published at 3.40pm on Monday, January 13, 2026
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Macon County Board of Commissioners October 2025 Regular Meeting

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6pm in the Commissioner Boardroom on the third floor of the courthouse. Access after 5pm will be through the back entrance. Macon Media will not be able to cover the meeting tonight, so the county video has been embedded. A copy of the agenda as well as the agenda packet has also been included.

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DAY SPONSOR

Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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Live Video

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Media Roll Call
(list of media outlets present for the meeting)

The Franklin Press -  Shelby

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MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OCTOBER 14, 2025
6 P.M.
AGENDA

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Young

2. Announcements
A. The November Board of County Commissioners meeting will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, due to the observance of the Veterans Day holiday.
B. There will be a Special Joint Meeting with the Board of County Commissioners and the Board of Education on October 21, 2025, at 9:00 am in the Commissioner’s Board Room located at 5 West Main Street, Franklin, NC 28734

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearing(s)
(A) 5311 Admin Grant
1. Presentation of the 5311 Admin Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open the Public Hearing
3. Public Comment (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close the Public Hearing
5. Discussion Regarding the 5311 Admin Grant
(B) 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant
1. Presentation of the 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open the Public Hearing
3. Public Comment (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close the Public Hearing
5. Discussion Regarding the 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant
(C) Combined Capital Grant
1. Presentation of the Combined Capital Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open the Public Hearing
3. Public Comment (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close the Public Hearing
5. Discussion Regarding the Combined Capital Grant
(D) ConCept Grant
1. Presentation of the ConCept Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open the Public Hearing
3. Public Comment (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close the Public Hearing
5. Discussion Regarding the ConCept Grant

6. Additions to agenda

7. Public Comment Period

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
(A) North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) Heroic Hands: Celebrating Public Service Award – Tammy Keezer, HR and Safety Director
(B) Pawsitive Shelter Volunteers Proposal for Assuming Operations of the Animal Shelter – County Manager Warren Cabe and Meg Kremer, Pawsitive Shelter Volunteers

10. Old Business
(A) Update on Burningtown-Iotla Volunteer Fire Department – Mr. Cabe
(B) Approval of Community Funding Pool Applications – Commissioner Danny Antoine and Commissioner Barry Breeden
(C) Consideration of the Revisions to the Landfill Design and Construction Agreement – McGill Associates
(D) Approval of Architectural Services for National Guard Armory Renovation – Mr. Cabe

11. New Business – None

12. 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.
(A) Minutes of the September 9, 2025, Regular Meeting
(B) Budget Amendments #93-110
(C) Tax Refund for Realmark Otto, LLC
(D) Approval of Resolution in Remembrance of the One-Year Anniversary of Hurricane Helene
(E) Approval of Resolution in Support of Operation Green Light
(F) Approval of Resolution Exempting Professional Services for Macon County Recreation Park Project
(G) Tax releases for the month of September 30 in the amount of $7,061.33
(H) Monthly ad valorem tax collection report – no action necessary

13. Appointments - None

14. Closed session as allowed under NCGS 143-318.11

15. Adjourn/Recess 

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 Agenda Pack [Download 66-page PDF] 

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Support Macon Media

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.



Become a Patron!


Or, if you prefer Pay Pal, try PayPal.me/MaconMedia


Published at 5.00pm on Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Macon County Board of Commissioners September 10, 2024 Regular Meeting

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting tonight at 6pm in the commissioners boardroom on the third floor. If more than 49 people show up, due to fire regulations and opening meeting laws, they will have to move upstairs to accommodate those who show up.

Roll Call
(a record of which media outlets sends reporters to cover the meeting)
Franklin Press - (Thomas)
Macon Sense - (Amy)

Video (live at 6pm)






Public Agenda


1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Shields

2. Announcements

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearings – Macon County Community Transportation Program
A. 5311 Admin Grant
1. Presentation of the 5311 Admin Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open Public Hearing
3. Public Comments (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close Public Hearing
5. Discussion regarding the 5311 Admin Grant

B. 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant
1. Presentation of the 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open Public Hearing
3. Public Comments (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close Public Hearing
5. Discussion regarding the 5310 Elderly and/or Disabled Grant

C. Combined Capital Grant
1. Presentation of the Combined Capital Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open Public Hearing
3. Public Comments (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close Public Hearing
5. Discussion regarding the Combined Capital Grant

D. ConCept Grant
1. Presentation of the ConCept Grant (5 minutes)
2. Open Public Hearing
3. Public Comments (3 minutes per speaker)
4. Close Public Hearing
5. Discussion regarding the ConCept Grant
**Approval of FY26 Program Resolution and FY26 Local Share Certification**

6. Public Comment Period

7. Additions to agenda

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations – None

10. Old Business
(A) Update on Quarter-Cent Sales Tax Referendum – John Knippel, Business Advisory Council
(B) Approval of the Farmland Protection Plan – Soil and Water District Director Doug Johnson
(C) Approval of the Macon County Public Health Billing Guide and Fee Plan – Health Director Kathy McGaha
(D) Discussion regarding Watershed Protection Ordinance – Board of Commissioners
(E) Approval of Renewal Lease for Offices Utilized by North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections Probation and Parole – County Manager Derek Roland

11. New Business
(A) Relocation of Franklin High School (FHS) weight room for new campus construction - Macon County School Board
(B) Highlands School Project Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) discussion - Vannoy Construction
(C) Macon Middle School Track project update - Macon County School Board
(D) Discussion and approval to repeal ordinances – Attorney Eric Ridenour
1. Title XI Business Regulations, Chapter 110 Cable Television and Title I General Provisions, Chapter 8-A Mediacom Franchise and Chapter 8-B Northland Cable Franchise
2. Title VII Traffic Code
3. Title IX General Regulations, Fire Prevention including Appendix A: Violations Schedule and Appendix B: Fire Inspection Fee System

(E) Discussion regarding recreational facilities – Commissioner Josh Young

12. 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.
(A) Minutes of the August 13, 2024 regular meeting
(B) Budget Amendments #53-68
(C) Resolution Approving Plat Review Officers
(D) Tax releases for the month of August 2024 in the amount of $18,462.31
(E) The settlement report for 2021 taxes
(F) Monthly ad valorem tax collection report – no action necessary

13. Appointments - None

14. Closed session as allowed under NCGS 143-318.11

15. Adjourn/Recess

Agenda Packet [Download PDF -66 pages]

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Franklin Town Council Regular Meeting for August 2024

The Franklin Town Council will be meeting Monday Night at 6pm in the lower level of the town hall. Due to the importance of this meeting, Macon Media will be streaming this live. Copies of the public agenda and the agenda packet are posted below. Some items on the public agenda have been annotated with the page number of where additional documentation can be found.

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Day Sponsor

Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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VIDEO



News Outlet Roll Call
(this section records the news outlets that sends representatives to this meeting. This is to provide accoiuntability for news outlets that do not attend and use Macon Media video footage to write their stories without giving appropriate credit)

Macon Media - Bobby
Macon Sense - Dan
Franklin Press - Mia

PUBLIC AGENDA


1. Call to Order - Mayor Jack Horton

2. Pledge of Allegiance - Vice Mayor Stacy Guffey

3. Adoption of the August 5, 2024 Town Council Agenda - Town Council

4. Approval of the Consent Agenda for August 5, 2024 - Town Council

A.) Approval of the July 1, 2024 Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes (PAGE 3-8)
B.) Budget Amendments (PAGE 9-12)
C.) Tax Release (PAGE 13-14)
D.) Approval of sole source purchase exception for water meters (PAGE 15-16)
E.) Rezoning request to be sent to Planning Board for review (PAGE 18-23)
F.) Appropriation for Franklin Garden Club approved in budget (PAGE 24-26)
G.) Approval of the Allowable Cost Policy (PAGE 27-40)
H.) Final Amendment of Capital Project Ordinance Clyde Street (PAGE 41-43)

5. Proclamation/Introductions/Recognitions (PAGE 44-47)

A.) Proclamation Help Homeless Veterans Week -Mayor Jack Horton
B.) Angela Green, Code Enforcement Officer - Introduction by Justin Setser, Town Planner
C.) Andre McDonald, Maintenance Worker - Introduction by Chris Waldroop, Streets Supervisor
D.) Sergeant Justin Riles - Promotion to CT AC - Recognition by Police Chief Devin Holland
E.) Jason Hopkins, Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor - Pretreatment Grade Ill Certification recognition by Bill Deal, Public Works Director
F.) Aaron Fosler, Meter Reader - Meter Reader Technician Certification - Recognition by Bill Deal, Public Works Director
G.) Bill Deal, Public Works Director - Utility Management Certification I I - Recognition by Amie Owens, Town Manager

H.) Sarah Bishop, Finance Director- Certified Budget Officer designation - Recognition by Amie Owens, Town Manager

6. Public Session

7. New Business

A.) Request approval for updated Noquisiyi Mound Plan - Bob McCollum, Nikwasi Initiative (PAGE 48-51)
B.) Voluntary Annexation Request - Parcel# 6583663448 - 2222 Georgia Road - Justin Setser, Town Planner (PAGE 52-54)
C.) Request approval of street closure - lotla Street on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. - Amie Owens, Town Manager (PAGE 55-56)

8. Departmental Reports (PAGE 57)

A.) Public Works Department
1. Public Works - Bill Deal, Public Works Director
2. Water Treatment Plant - Kyle Pocquette, Water Treatment Plant Supervisor
3. Wastewater Treatment Plant - Jason Hopkins, Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor
4. Streets - Chris Waldroop, Streets Supervisor

B.) Planning/IT - Justin Setser, Town Planner

9. Items from Council (PAGE 58-59)

A.) Discussion - Social District - Pumpkinfest and Winter Wonderland
B.) Update from TOA regarding use of tourism related funds
C.) Update ARPA Funding Recommendations

10. Closed Session (PAGE 60)

A.) Enter into Closed Session under NC General Statute § 143-318.I I(a)(S) to discuss acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease.

11. Announcements

A.) Next Regular Town Council Meeting is Tuesday, September 3, 2024
B.) Town Offices closed Monday, September 2, 2024 in observation of the Labor Day holiday in accordance with the NC State Holiday Schedule
C.) Pickin' on the Square - August 10 and August 24, 2024
D.) Special Called Meeting - Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. - Strategic Planning Work Session

12. Adjourn

(Monthly Reports are on pages 61-79 at the end of the packet)

Agenda Packet [Download 79 Page PDF]

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Support Macon Media

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.



Become a Patron!


Or, if you prefer Pay Pal, try PayPal.me/MaconMedia

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Published at 7.10pm on Friday, August 01, 2024

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Franklin Town Council - Regular April 2024 Meeting

The Franklin Town Council will be meeting tonight at 6pm in the lower level of the town hall. The public agenda and agenda packet are posted below in the public interest. A video of the meeting will be added in the coming days.

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DAY SPONSOR

Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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Video of Meeting

After the Closed Session

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Media Roll Call (a list of media outlets that send reporters to the meeting)

Macon Media (Bobby)

The Franklin Press (Mia)
No other outlet was present at the meeting.

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PUBLIC AGENDA

1. Call to Order - Mayor Jack Horton

2. Pledge of Allegiance - Vice Mayor Stacy Guffey

3. Adoption of the April 1, 2024 Town Council Agenda - Town Council

4. Approval of the Consent Agenda for March 4, 2024 - Town Council
A.) Approval of February 26, 2024 Special Called Meeting and March 4, 2024 Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes
B.) Budget Amendment
C.) Reinstatement and reclassification of positions - Facilities and Police Department
D.) Substitution vehicle purchase - Public Works
E.) Tax Release
F.) Ordinance Review Committee Recommended Revisions
1. Evaluation Policy
2. Local Purchasing Preference (part of the Purchasing Policy)
3. Junk and Abandoned Car Ordinance

5. Recognition / Introductions
A.) Sergeant Matt Breedlove, CTAC Officer, introduction by Chief Devin Holland
B.) Proclamation Honoring and Celebrating National Tartan Day - April 6 - Mayor Jack Horton

6. Old Business
A.) Request approval of fee for Temporary Use / RV Camper Fee - Town Planner Justin Setser

7. Call for Public Hearing
A.) Call for Public Hearing to be held on May 6, 2024 at 6:05 p.m. or as closely thereafter as possible to allow for public input on a Conditional District Rezoning for a 10.63 acre tract of land located at 227 Siler Road - Town Planner, Justin Setser
B.) Call for Public Hearing to be held on May 6, 2024 at 6:10 p.m. or as closely thereafter as possible to allow for public input on a Conditional District Rezoning for 7.2 acres of the western portion of parcel with frontage on Siler Road and Firefly Lane - Town Planner, Justin Setser
C.) Call for Public Hearing to be held on May 6, 2024 at 6: 15 p.m. or as closely thereafter as possible to allow for public input on a Conditional District Rezoning for 5 acres located off Allman Drive - Town Planner Justin Setser
D.) Call for Public Hearing to be held on May 6, 2024 at 6:20 p.m. or as closely thereafter as possible to allow for public input on a Conditional District Rezoning of 3.63 acres located off the Highlands Road - Town Planner Justin Setser
E.) Call for Public Hearing to be held on May 6, 2024 at 6:25 p.m. or as closely thereafter as possible to allow for public input on a Rezoning of 31.71 acres, Franklin High School property, from Neighborhood Mixed Use/R2 to change the entire property to R2 - Town Planner Justin Setser

8. Public Session

9. New Business
A.) Request approval of the Resolution Approving the Town of Franklin's 2023 Local Water Supply Plan - Bill Deal Public Works Director
B.) Request approval of application for NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) grant for $500,000 for the Whitmire Inclusive Play Area (including restrooms, parking areas and connecting sidewalks) - Town Manager Amie Owens

10. Departmental Reports
A.) Finance - Sarah Bishop, Finance Director
B.) Planning / IT / Facilities - Justin Setser, Town Planner
C.) Police Department - Chief Devin Holland

11. Items from Council

12. Closed Session
A.) Enter into Closed Session under NC General Statute§ 143-318. 11(a)(5) to discuss acquisition of real property by purchase, option, exchange, or lease

13. Announcements
A. Next Town Council Meeting is Monday, May 6, 2024
B. Special Called Town Council Meeting - Tuesday, April 16, 2024 Budget Work Session

14. Adjourn

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Agenda Packet [Download PDF (142 pages)]

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Macon County Board of Commissioners - Special Meeting March 25, 2024

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be holding a Special Meeting late this afternoon at 5.30pm in the commissioners boardroom on the third floor of the Macon County County. The side entrance on the second floor will be closed, so enter through the back entrance. Macon Media will stream the meeting live via a web player embedded below. There is also a public agenda and an agenda packet so members of the public can see what has been put on the agenda.

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DAY SPONSOR

Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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Live Video


Public Agenda

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Shields

2. Announcements

3. Public Hearing to Consider Entering into Private Sale Agreement to Sell of County Owned Property and Provide Incentive Grant - Economic Development Director Tommy Jenkins

4. Discussion and Consideration of Proposal for Supplemental Geotechnical Exploration and Consulting Services for Highlands School Project - County Manager Derek Roland

5. Approval of Construction Manager (CM) at Risk Contract for Highlands School Renovation/Addition - County Manager Derek Roland

6. Approval of Construction Manager (CM) at Risk Contract for Franklin High School and Athletic Complex Project - County Manager Derek Roland

7. Consideration and Approval of Bids for Solid Waste Equipment - Solid Waste Director Chris Stahl

8. Adjourn


Agenda Packet [Download PDF (24 pages)]

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Agenda for the December 2023 Meeting of the Franklin Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will be meeting at 6pm on Monday, December 4th, in the lower level of the town hall. Due to it being the first meeting after a municipal election, the candidates who won will be sworn in and seated. Copies of the public agenda and the 70 page agenda packet have been added below in the interest of promoting transparency. A separate article will be posted for the live webcast.

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Public Agenda

1. Call to Order – Town Manager Amie Owens
2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Oath of Office for Mayor and Town Council Members – Clerk of Court Shawna Lamb
A.) Jack Horton, Mayor
B.) Joe Collins, Council Member
C.) Mike Lewis, Council Member
D.) Robbie Tompa, Council Member

Mayor and Council Member comments

There will be a brief recess to allow individuals to take their place at the dais and Mayor Jack Horton will take over the meeting following the recess

4. Election of Vice Mayor – Town Council

5. Adoption of the December 4, 2023 Town Council Agenda – Town Council

6. Approval of the Consent Agenda for December 4, 2023 – Town Council
A.) Approval of November 6, 2023 Town Council Minutes
B.) Budget Amendments
C.) Response Letter to LGC from Audit Finding
D.) Surplus Equipment – Ballistic Vest
E.) Resolution of Support for Highway Improvement Funding for Acceleration Lane/On Ramp

7. Introduction and Recognition
A.) Police Officer Tyler Brand – introduction by Police Chief Devin Holland
B.) Kyle Pocquette, Water Treatment Plant ORC – B-Distribution Certification – presented by Bill Deal, Public Works Director
C.) Blake Hawkins, Water Treatment Operator – A-Surface Certification – presented by Kyle Pocquette, Water Treatment Plant ORC

8. Public Hearing
A.) Public Hearing to receive public input on a text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance Section 152.034 – Conditional Zoning – Justin Setser, Town Planner

9. Public Session

10. New Business
A.) Reappointment of Town Manager, Town Attorney and Town Clerk – Mayor Jack Horton
B.) Request approval of change orders for Phillips Street and Harrison Avenue sidewalk project – Town Manager Amie Owens
C.) Adoption of the 2024 Town Council Meeting Schedule – Town Manager Amie Owens
D.) Adoption of the 2024 Town Holiday Schedule – Town Manager Amie Owens

11. Departmental Reports
A. Human Resources – Nicole Bradley, Human Resources Director/Town Clerk
B. Tax Collection/Events – Sabrina Scruggs, Tax Collector
C. Fire Department – Fire Chief Ben Ormond

12. Items from Council
A.) Social District Discussion – Town Council
B.) Annual Council Retreat Scheduling – Town Council

13. Announcements
A. Next Town Council Meeting is Tuesday, January 2, 2024
B. Christmas holidays for Town Offices – December 25, 26 & 27, 2023 (Monday – Wednesday)
C. 10th Annual Ruby Drop – Downtown – December 31, 2023 – two drops one at 9:00 p.m. and another at midnight (Sunday)
D. New Year’s holiday for Town Offices – January 1, 2024 (Monday)

14. Adjourn

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Agenda Packet [Download PDF]

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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.



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Or, if you prefer Pay Pal, try PayPal.me/MaconMedia


Published at 11:00pm on Thursday, November 30, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins

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July 2023 Meeting Agenda Macon County Board of Commissioners Updated with video

**9.30pm update** Here is the live webcast from the meeting by Macon Media. A full video will be posted to Youtube later, along with segment videos and articles over the next several days.


Live Webcast: Macon County Board of Commissioners (July 2023) | Macon Media

(the meeting starts after the 7 minute 25 second mark)

 

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting Tuesday night at 6pm for their monthly meeting for July 2023. For those who wish to attend in person, enter the Macon County Courthouse through the rear entrance to the third floor. Macon Media will be webcasting the meeting live. A copy of the public agenda is posted below and a downloadable copy of the full agenda packet is below that.

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Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
July 11, 2023 6 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Higdon

2. Announcements

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

S. Public Hearing(s) - None

6. Public Comment Period

7. Additions to agenda

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
      (A) Recognition of Officers by Sheriff Holbrooks

10. Old Business
      (A) Consideration and Approval of Bids for a new Molar Roller - Health Director Kathy McGaha
      (B) Discussion Regarding Nantahala Broadband Request for Proposals (RFP) -Jeff Lee of Little T Broadband Services
      (C) Discussion Regarding Highlands Middle School Renovation Project - County Manager Derek Roland
      (D) Discussion regarding Union Academy in relation to Franklin High School Project - Commissioner Shields

11.New Business
      (A) Consideration and Approval of Additional ConCPT Grant Funding for Macon County Transit - Transit Director Darlene Asher
      (B) Consideration and Approval of Additional 5339(b) Grant Funds for Macon County Transit - Transit Director Darlene Asher
      (C) Consideration and Approval of Lease Renewal for Community Care Clinic of Franklin - County Manager Derek Roland

12. Consent Agenda
- Attachment #12 All items below are considered roue and will be enacted by one motion. No separate discussion will be held except on request of a member of the Board of Commissioners.
      (A) Minutes of the June 8, 2023 special meeting, the June 13 regular meeting, the June 19, 2023 continued meeting, and the June 26, 2023 special meeting
      (B) Budget Amendments #1
      (C) Approval of the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council County Plan for FY 2023-24
      (D) Approval of the Scaly Mountain Recreation Agreement for FY 2023-24
      (E) Grant Project Ordinance ESFRLP2315
      (F) Tax releases for the month of April in the amount of $654.72
      (G) Monthly ad valorem tax collection report - no action necessary-

13. Appointments
      A. Jury Commission (1 seat)

14. Closed session as allowed under NCGS - if needed

15. Adjourn/Recess



Agenda Packet     [Download 193-page PDF]






Support Macon Media

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.



Become a Patron!


Or, if you prefer Pay Pal, try PayPal.me/MaconMedia


Published at 10:00am on Monday, July 10, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Macon County Board of Commissioners Meeting Agenda March 14, 2023

The Macon County Board of Commissioners will be meeting at 6pm on Tuesday, March 14th, for their regularly scheduled March 2023 meeting. A copy of the public agenda and the agenda packet are posted below. A video player with a live video feed is also included. Macon Media is still experiencing transportation issues and likely will not be able to be at the meeting in person, so the county livestream will be embedded if Bobby cannot be at the meeting.

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DAY SPONSOR

Young Tree Service is sponsoring Macon Media for today.

They provide complete tree care, are licensed and insured. Specializing in low ground impact. Danger tree removal. Crane Service, Pruning, Views, 24 hr emergency service. 

Call 828-421-0967 for more information.

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Live Video (starts at 6pm on March 14th)



MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 14, 2023 REGULAR MEETING 6 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA

1. Call to order and welcome by Chairman Higdon

2. Announcements


3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearing(s) - None NOTE: Public hearing on proposed change to the Watershed Protection Ordinance will be held on April 11, 2023 at 6 p.m.

6. Public Comment Period

7. Additions to agenda

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
(A) Update on Macon County Cooperative Extension activities -Christine Bredenkamp, Director
(B) Progress report on Georgia Road/Scaly Mountain area fiber infrastructure build - Matt Saenger, Director of Sales and Marketing, BalsamWest

10.0Id Business
(A) Skate Park project update - Arnie Owens, Town Manager, Town of Franklin

11.New Business
(A) Discussion/consideration of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) - Jennifer Turner-Lynn, Assistant Director, REACH of Macon County
(B) Resolution in Recognition of Macon County Crawford Senior Center Volunteers - Patrick Betancourt, Department of Social Services Director
(C) Consideration of bid award for Macon County Transit facility expansion, Darlene Asher, Transit Director
(D) Consideration of Resolution adopting a Code of Ethics for the Board of Commissioners - County Attorney Eric Ridenour
(E) Consideration of Budget Amendment regarding boiler/chiller unit at the Human Services Building - County Manager Derek Roland and Finance Director Lori Carpenter

12.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.
(A) Minutes of the February 9, 2023 continued session, the February 14, 2023 regular meeting and the February 21, 2023 continued session
(B) Budget Amendments #189-195
(C) Tax releases for the month of February in the amount of $685.65
(D)Monthly ad valorem tax collection report - no action necessary

13.Appointments
(A) Economic Development Commission (2 seats)

14.Closed session as allowed under NCGS (if needed)
15.Adjourn/Recess

Agenda Packet [Download PDF of Agenda Packet]



Support Macon Media

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.



Become a Patron!


Or, if you prefer Pay Pal, try PayPal.me/MaconMedia


Published at 9.51am on Monday, March 13, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Agenda Released for February 21, 2023 Macon County Board of Commissioners Meeting Updated with Video

The public agenda and agenda packet for the February 17th, 2023 meeting of the Macon County Board of Commissioners. The regular meeting date for February was Tuesday, February 14th, but was continued to the following Tuesday. A video of the short session that took place this past Tuesday is below. The public agenda and 117-page agenda packet are posted below that in the public interest. Macon Media will publish another article for the continued meeting.

 

Macon County Commissioners Meeting 2-21-2023



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MACON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
FEBRUARY 21, 2023 CONTINUED SESSION
6 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA

 
1. Reconvene and welcome by Chairman Higdon at 6 p.m.

2. Announcements

3. Moment of Silence

4. Pledge of Allegiance

5. Public Hearing(s) - None

6. Public Comment Period

7. Additions to agenda

8. Adjustments to and approval of the agenda

9. Reports/Presentations
  (A) Macon Middle School Air Quality Update - Todd Gibbs, Macon County Schools

10.0ld Business
  (A) Acknowledgement of Capital Priorities for Macon County Schools as recommended by the Liaison Committee on February 9, 2023 - County Manager Derek Roland

11.New Business
  (A) 2022 Outstanding N.C. Conservation Farm Family - Doug Johnson, Soil and Water Conservation District Director and Lori Carpenter, Finance Director
  (B) Solid Waste - Director Chris Stahl
    (1) Consideration of contract(s) with McGill Associates and Bunnell Lammons Engineering for vertical expansion of Macon County Landfill, Phase II, Cell I and Phase III, Cell 1
    (2) Consideration of award for two walking-floor unloader transfer trailers to Pinnacle Trailer Sales, Inc.
  (C) Consideration of lease renewals at the Business Development Center - Tommy Jenkins, Director, Macon County Economic Development Commission
    (1) AG1, LIE
    (2) Macon County Board of Education (STEM)
    (3) TECO SSL, Inc.
    (4) Waterwheel Manufacturing, Inc.
  (D)Schedule public hearing for 6 p.m. on March 14, 2023 regarding amendment(s) to the Watershed Protection Ordinance - Planning Director Joe Allen
  (E) Resolution Authorizing Execution of Opioid Settlements -County Manager Derek Roland and County Attorney Eric Ridenour
  (F) Sale of surplus property (Lot #307 Wildflower) to Anakeesta -County Manager Derek Roland, Finance Director Lori Carpenter and County Attorney Eric Ridenour

12.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.
  (A) Minutes of the January 10, 2023 regular meeting
  (B) Budget Amendments #153-157
  (C)Tax releases for the month of January in the amount of $65.10
  (D)Audit contract for fiscal year ending June 30, 2023
  (E) Monthly ad valorem tax collection report - no action necessary

13.Appointments
  (A) Planning Board (2 seats)
  (B) Economic Development Commission (2 seats)
  (C) Southwestern Commission Area Agency on Aging Regional Advisory Council (3 seats and 3 alternates)
  (D) 2023 Board of Equalization and Review (5 seats)
  (E) ETJ representative on the Town of Franklin Planning Board (1 seat)

14.Closed session as allowed under NCGS (if necessary)

15.Adjourn/Recess

Agenda Packet [PDF Download (117 pages)] 



Support Macon Media

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.



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Published at 2:00am on Friday, February 17, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins

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News and Weather Briefing for Tuesday, January 03, 2023

Here is an index to assist you in moving from section to section within the article.

Back to Top
Weather
Hazards and Tropical Weather
Almanac
Macon Calendar
Local and StateNews
Russo-UKrainian War Updates
National News Roundup
COVID-19 News and Updates
Science and Technology
Russo-Ukrainian War Videos (mostly long form)
On This Day
Support Macon Media

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GENERAL OUTLOOK

Periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms are possible Tuesday night into early Wednesday. This may pose a risk of isolated minor flooding, primarily along small creeks and streams, and in the mountains along south-facing slopes. Any thunderstorms in this timeframe could also produce isolated wind damage, and a tornado cannot be ruled out.

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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.

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Macon Media is being underwritten today by Nature Tamers of North Carolina.

Grading • View Cutting
Water Abatement • Foundations
Plumbing • Construction Repair


Call 828-507-2735

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Local Weather

General Forecast Through Thursday Night

Franklin Area

Today

Showers likely, mainly after 2pm. Patchy fog between 10am and 11am. Otherwise, cloudy, with highs in the mid 60s. Winds out of the southeast 3 to 10 mph. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. Chance of rain is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

Showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 8pm. Patchy fog. Lows in the mid 50s. calm winds. Chance of rain is 90%. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Wednesday

Showers and thunderstorms before 3pm, then a chance of showers. Highs in the mid 60s. Winds out the south 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the upper 30s. Light winds out of the west.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the mid 50s.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows around 30.

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Highlands Plateau

Today

Showers, mainly after noon. Widespread fog, mainly before midmorning. Highs in the mid 50s. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Patchy fog. Lows in the lower 50s. Winds out the south 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 100%. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Wednesday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 3pm, then showers likely. Highs in the upper 50s. Winds out the south 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the upper 30s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the mid 40s.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the mid-to-upper 20s.

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Otto and South Central Macon County

Today

Showers, mainly after noon. Widespread fog, mainly before midmorning. Highs in the mid 50s. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Patchy fog. Lows in the lower 50s. Winds out the south 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 100%. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Wednesday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 3pm, then showers likely. Highs in the upper 50s. Winds out the south 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the upper 30s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the mid 40s.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the mid-to-upper 20s.

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Nantahala Area

Today

Showers likely, mainly after 3pm. Patchy fog before midmorning. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with highs in the lower 60s. Winds out the south 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of rain is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight

Showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 8pm. Patchy fog. Lows around 55. calm winds becoming south around 5 mph after midnight. Chance of rain is 90%. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Wednesday

Showers and thunderstorms before 2pm, then a chance of showers. Highs near 60. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the upper 30s. West southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm before midnight.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the upper 40s.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows around 30.

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Hazards and Tropical Weather

Periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms are possible tonight into early Wednesday. This may pose a risk of isolated minor flooding, primarily along small creeks and streams, and in the mountains along south-facing slopes. Any thunderstorms in this timeframe could also produce isolated wind damage, and a tornado cannot be ruled out.

Latest US Drought Monitor Map for North Carolina.

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Back to Top TROPICAL WEATHER OUTLOOK

• Damaging 2022 Atlantic hurricane season draws to a close [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]

• Atlantic hurricane season ends with 14 named storms [AP News]

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
700 PM EST Wed Nov 30 2022

For the North Atlantic...Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico:

Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 5 days.

This is the last regularly scheduled Tropical Weather Outlook of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Routine issuance of the Tropical Weather Outlook will resume on May 15, 2023. During the off-season, Special Tropical Weather Outlooks will be issued as conditions warrant.

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Almanac

24 Hour Smoke Forecast

No known appreciable smoke field will be crossing Macon County today or tonight.

PM2.5 AQI is 45 (GOOD) for most of the county, and the ridges and other higher elevations PM2.5 AQI is 45 (GOOD)


Fire and Smoke Map

Local Air Monitor

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low range (1.7 out of 12) today with Juniper being the main culprit. Tomorrow is expected to be in the low range (0.3 out of 12).

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Record Weather Events for January 3rd

Record weather events for this date in Macon County
(1872-2016)

Highest Temperature 69°F in Franklin in 2004
Lowest Temperature -9°F in Highlands in 1979
Greatest One-Day Rainfall 2.53 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1944
Greatest One-Day Snowfall 5.5 inches in Highlands in 1914

Weather Extremes for Macon County for the month of January Data available from 1872

Highest Temperature 78°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 01-28-1999
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 01-21-1985
Greatest Rainfall 5.10 inches in Highlands on 01-12-2018
Greatest Snowfall 10.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 01-08-1988

Record Weather Events for January 3rd in North Carolina

Highest Temperature 82°F in Laurinburg, Scotland County in 2022
Lowest Temperature -12°F in Grandfather Mountain, Avery County in 1979
Greatest Rainfall 4.00 inches at Brevard, Transylvania Countyy in 1906
Greatest Snowfall 14.0 inches in Roxboro, Person County in 2002
Weather Extremes for North Carolina for the month of January Data available from 1872

Highest Temperature 86°F in Marion, Mcdowell County on 01-24-1927
Lowest Temperature -34°F in Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on 01-21-1985
Greatest Rainfall 9.18 inches in Lake Toxaway, Transylvania County on 01-13-2018
Greatest Snowfall 28.00 in Mount Mitchell, Yancey County on 01-28-1998

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Macon Calendar
(send your event to calendar@maconmedia.com)

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No events have been submitted for Macon Calendar.

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Local and State News



• Macon County Sheriff's Office Investigating Death on Stiwinter Mountain Road [Macon Media]

• Franklin Town Council - January 2023 Regular Meeting [Macon Media]

• New session of North Carolina legislature could bring more culture war issues [WRAL-TV (Raleigh, NC)]

• The 117th Congress ends this week. How well did NC’s delegation represent the state? [Raleigh News and Observer]

• 3 dead and 2 hurt after a scaffolding collapse in Charlotte [CNN]

• Tripledemic patients fill WNC hospitals, cause some to go to diversion status [WLOS-TV (Asheville, NC)]

REPLAY

• 9th Annual Ruby Drop in Franklin, NC [Watch on Facebook]

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Special Section: The Russo-Ukrainian War
(sharing of a particular source is not an endorsement)

• Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, January 02 [Institute for the Study of War] [PDF for January 2nd]

• Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 313 [Al Jazeera]

• LIVEBLOG: Day 313 of Russian aggression against Ukraine [TVP World]

• Russo-Ukrainian War. Day 313: Russia targets Ukraine’s residential areas, not civilian infrastructure on New Year’s Eve [Euromaiden Press]

Hundreds of Russians Killed in MAJOR Ukraine Strike | FUNKER530 - Veteran Community & Combat Footage



• Ukraine war: US says Iran now Russia's 'top military backer' [BBC News]

• Ukraine Strikes Russian Forces in Donbas in Deadliest Attack in Months [Wall Street Journal]

• LIVEBLOG: 01-02-2022 [France 24]

Timothy Snyder: Making of Modern Ukraine (23 Lectures) | Yale Courses



• Class Syllabus ["The Making of Modern Ukraine," Fall 2022]

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News from Russian or pro-Russian outlets or Video About the Russian Perspective

• Dozens of Russian troops killed in Ukrainian strike [Russia Today]

• Putin not sending season's greetings to leaders of Russia-unfriendly states [Pravda]

• Russia to block military threats coming from Japan – MFA [TASS]

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National and World News Roundup

• Big Banks Predict Recession, Fed Pivot in 2023 [Wall Street Journal]

• These states are raising their minimum wages in 2023. Chart shows where workers can expect higher pay [CNBC]

• 65,000 view Benedict XVI’s body lying in state at Vatican [AP News]

• At least 14 dead in armed attack on prison in Mexican border city Juarez [Reuters]

• Australia monitoring Iranian warships transiting South Pacific in global show of force [ABC News Australia]

• 'Clouds Of War Are Gathering': Pakistanis Brace For Bloody Year As TTP Ends Cease-Fire, Intensifies Attacks [Radio Free Europe]

• Brazilian Authorities Will Revive Fraud Case Against George Santos [SOURCE]

• Idaho murders: Suspect was identified through DNA using genealogy databases, police say [ABC News]

• Conservatives threaten to withhold critical McCarthy support, hours before speaker vote [Politico]

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Taiwan: Why the US and China are on collision course for war | DW News | NBC News



Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin in critical condition after collapsing mid-game | CBS News



How Long Would Society Last During a Total Grid Collapse? | Practical Engineering



Global National: Jan. 2, 2023 | Ontario pharmacies have new powers amid doctor shortages



Nightly News Full Broadcast (January 2nd)

PBS NewsHour full episode, January 02, 2022

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COVID-19 News and Updates

Here is a section on COVID-19. It includes local, regional, state, national, and global items.

COVID-19 Numbers for Macon County:

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• WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard [World Health Organization]

In United States of America, from 3 January 2020 to 4:54pm CET, 23 December 2022, there have been 99,027,628 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 1,080,010 deaths, reported to WHO. As of 2 December 2022, a total of 647,345,101 vaccine doses have been administered.

Globally, as of 4:54pm CET, 23 December 2022, there have been 651,918,402 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 6,656,601 deaths, reported to WHO. As of 13 December 2022, a total of 13,008,560,983 vaccine doses have been administered.

• Hospitals in China are telling families to ‘bring your own beds’ [NBC News]

• B.C. health officials monitoring COVID subvariant ‘Kraken’ spreading in U.S., Asia [Global News]

• Rising Risks with COVID Reinfection [Harvard Magazine]

• As COVID turns 3, experts worry where the next pandemic will come from – and if we'll be ready [USA TODAY]

• Serum IgG4 level predicts COVID-19 related mortality [Elevier Public Health Emergency Collection]

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Science and Technology News Roundup

• Remote Work Is Poised to Devastate America’s Cities In order to survive, cities must let developers convert office buildings into housing. [New York Magazine Intelligencer]

• More social media regulation expected in 2023, members of Congress say [New York Post]

• Norway: Electric car sales soar, setting new record [DW News]

• SpaceX raising $750 million at a $137 billion valuation, investors include Andreessen-Horowitz [CNBC]

• These astronauts are getting their medical training from playing video games [ZDNET]

• AI infused everything on show at CES gadget extravaganza [Tech Xplore]

• Tesla Fined $2.2 Million in Korea for Alleged False Advertising [Bloomberg]

• Facial recognition tool led to mistaken arrest, lawyer says [AP News]

• This New Shock-Absorbing Gel Can Withstand Supersonic Impacts [Smithsonian Magazine]

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Semi-permanent links

WATCH: Judy Woodruff on journalism ethics in a time of crisis | UVA’s Jim Lehrer Lecture



• Fall of Civilizations #16. Bagan - City of Temples [Fall of Civilizations Podcast]

• 25 tips to help you prepare for the 2024 total solar eclipse [Astronomy Magazine]

• Neal Stephenson’s Lamina1 drops white paper on building the open metaverse [Venture Beat] [PDF of White paper]

• Yes, the Great Books Make Us Better People [New York Times]

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Podcasts and Long Form Videos (History, Culture, Science, Space, Technology and Current Events)
Anything covering educational, entertainment, history, current events, and technology topics

Level1 Show - Happy New Year Live Stream | Level1Techs



Best of GDI 2022 - DTNS 4427 | Daily Tech News Show



Anthropology’s Greatest Hoax | SciShow



Open Space January 2nd 2023: Live QA with Fraser | Fraser Cain



306: 2023 Linux Predictions, Xfce 4.18, Steam Winter Sale & More! | Destination Linux



2023 Spoilers | LINUX Unplugged 491 | Jupiter Broadcasting



LINUX MINT 21.1 Vera is WINDOWS, and I'm fine with that! | The Linux Experiment

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Russo-Ukrainian War Videos (mostly long form)

--> Hundreds of Russians Killed in MAJOR Ukraine Strike | FUNKER530 - Veteran Community & Combat Footage



Russia's Anti-Putin Underground | Popular Front



“Up to 400 Russian soldiers killed” in Ukraine missile strike | BBC News



Why is the Kremlin acknowledging the losses? | DW News



Ukraine carries out one of the deadliest attacks against Russian forces since war began | PBS NewsHour



How Ukraine Became Part of the USSR - The Soviet–Ukrainian War | The Great War

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On This Day

January 3 is the third day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; 362 days remain until the end of the year (363 in leap years).

Historical Events

Historical Events

(Please note that the Wikipedia articles often contain a bibliography and links to where you can learn more about a historical event)

Today in History for January 3rd | Associated Press





AD69 - The Roman legions on the Rhine refuse to declare their allegiance to Galba, instead proclaiming their legate, Aulus Vitellius, as emperor.

250 – Emperor Decius orders everyone in the Roman Empire (except Jews) to make sacrifices to the Roman gods.

1521 – Pope Leo X excommunicates Martin Luther in the papal bull Decet Romanum Pontificem.

1653 – By the Coonan Cross Oath, the Eastern Church in India cuts itself off from colonial Portuguese tutelage.

1749 – Benning Wentworth issues the first of the New Hampshire Grants, leading to the establishment of Vermont.

1749 – The first issue of Berlingske, Denmark's oldest continually operating newspaper, is published.

1777 – American General George Washington defeats British General Lord Cornwallis at the Battle of Princeton.

1815 – Austria, the United Kingdom, and France form a secret defensive alliance against Prussia and Russia.

1833 – Captain James Onslow, in the Clio, reasserts British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.

1848 – Joseph Jenkins Roberts is sworn in as the first president of Liberia.

1861 – American Civil War: Delaware votes not to secede from the United States.

1868 – Meiji Restoration in Japan: The Tokugawa shogunate is abolished; agents of Satsuma and Chōshū seize power.

1870 – Construction work begins on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, United States.

1871 – In the Battle of Bapaume, an engagement in the Franco-Prussian War, General Louis Faidherbe's forces bring about a Prussian retreat.

1885 – Sino-French War: Beginning of the Battle of Núi Bop.

1911 – A magnitude 7.7 earthquake destroys the city of Almaty in Russian Turkestan.

1911 – A gun battle in the East End of London leaves two dead. It sparked a political row over the involvement of then-Home Secretary Winston Churchill.

1913 – An Atlantic coast storm sets the lowest confirmed barometric pressure reading for a non-tropical system in the continental United States.

1920 – Over 640 are killed after a magnitude 6.4 earthquake strikes the Mexican states Puebla and Veracruz.

1933 – Minnie D. Craig becomes the first woman elected as Speaker of the North Dakota House of Representatives, the first woman to hold a Speaker position anywhere in the United States.

1944 – World War II: US flying ace Major Greg "Pappy" Boyington is shot down in his Vought F4U Corsair by Captain Masajiro Kawato flying a Mitsubishi A6M Zero.

1946 – Popular Canadian American jockey George Woolf dies in a freak accident during a race; the annual George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award is created to honor him.

1947 – Proceedings of the U.S. Congress are televised for the first time.

1949 – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the central bank of the Philippines, is established.

1953 – Frances P. Bolton and her son, Oliver from Ohio, become the first mother and son to serve simultaneously in the U.S. Congress.

1956 – A fire damages the top part of the Eiffel Tower.

1957 – The Hamilton Watch Company introduces the first electric watch.

1958 – The West Indies Federation is formed.

1959 – Alaska is admitted as the 49th U.S. state.

1961 – Cold War: After a series of economic retaliations against one another, the United States severs diplomatic relations with Cuba.

1961 – The SL-1 nuclear reactor is destroyed by a steam explosion in the only reactor incident in the United States to cause immediate fatalities.

1961 – A protest by agricultural workers in Baixa de Cassanje, Portuguese Angola, turns into a revolt, opening the Angolan War of Independence, the first of the Portuguese Colonial Wars.

1961 – Aero Flight 311 crashes into the forest in Kvevlax, Finland, killing 25 people.

1962 – Pope John XXIII excommunicates Fidel Castro.

1976 – The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, comes into force.

1977 – Apple Computer is incorporated.

1987 – Varig Flight 797 crashes near Akouré in the Ivory Coast, resulting in 50 deaths.

1990 – United States invasion of Panama: Manuel Noriega, former leader of Panama, surrenders to American forces.

1992 – CommutAir Flight 4821 crashes on approach to Adirondack Regional Airport, in Saranac Lake, New York, killing two people.

1993 – In Moscow, Russia, George H. W. Bush and Boris Yeltsin sign the second Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START).

1994 – Baikal Airlines Flight 130 crashes near Mamoney, Irkutsk, Russia, resulting in 125 deaths.

1999 – The Mars Polar Lander is launched by NASA.

2002 – Israeli–Palestinian conflict: Israeli forces seize the Palestinian freighter Karine A in the Red Sea, finding 50 tons of weapons.

2004 – Flash Airlines Flight 604 crashes into the Red Sea, resulting in 148 deaths, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Egyptian history.

2009 – The first block of the blockchain of the decentralized payment system Bitcoin, called the Genesis block, is established by the creator of the system, Satoshi Nakamoto.

2015 – Boko Haram militants destroy the entire town of Baga in north-east Nigeria, starting the Baga massacre and killing as many as 2,000 people.

2016 – In response to the execution of Nimr al-Nimr, Iran ends its diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia.

2018 – For the first time in history, all five major storm surge gates in the Netherlands are closed simultaneously in the wake of a storm.

2019 – Chang'e 4 makes the first soft landing on the far side of the Moon, deploying the Yutu-2 lunar rover.

2020 – Iranian General Qasem Soleimani is killed by an American airstrike near Baghdad International Airport, igniting global concerns of a potential armed conflict.

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Published at 5:00am on Tuesday, January 03, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins


Resources used to compile the information in this article include, but are not limited to the following websites or books: MaconMedia.com, youtube.com, weather.gov, airnow.gov, wikipedia.com, onthisday.com, ncdcr.gov, ncsu.edu, utah.edu, https://www.microbe.tv/twiv/, wolfram.com, biorxiv.org, aps.org, nejm.org, plos.org, cell.com, researchsquare.com, cureus.com, spc.noaa.gov, nhc.noaa.gov, ncdenr.org, medrxiv.org, archive.org, ncpedia.org, nasa.gov, https://ww2days.com, nih.gov, carolinapublicpress.org, microbe.tv, smokymountainnews.com, psypost.org, blogspot.com, pollen.com, franklinnc.com, maconnc.org, spaceweather.com, solarham.com, loc.gov, ncleg.net, senate.gov, house.gov, whitehouse.gov, drudgereport.com, politico.com, realclearpolitics.com, ushmm.org, This Day in North Carolina History, World War II Day By Day, The Holocaust Encyclopedia, The Timetables of History, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, The World History and Book of Facts (multiple years), On This Day In History: Over 4,000 facts, The NASA Archives. 60 Years in Space, This Day in North Carolina History, The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration: From the Ancient World to the Extraterrestrial Future, Spaceflight, 2nd Edition: The Complete Story from Sputnik to Curiousity, The Story of Civilization (11 volumes), The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, American History, Volume 1: 1492-1877, American History, Volume 2: 1877 - Present, A Complete Chronolgy of the Second World War. Weather and Almanac data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): heavens-above.com, Ian Webster's Github, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, The National Weather Service, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, National Hurricane Center, Penn State University Electronic Wall Map, The State Climate Office of North Carolina, Storm Prediction Center, U.S. Naval Observatory, University of Utah Department of Atmospheric Sciences, and the Weather Prediction Center. Back to Top

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