Boil Water Advisory for Franklin Lifted

PRESS RELEASE (01-10-2024)

TOWN OF FRANKLIN

The water line break at Lakeside Drive and Watauga Street that impacted water service on Monday afternoon has been repaired. Due to the nature of this repair, the Town had to issue a boil water advisory.

As of Wednesday, January 10 at 3:00 p.m. the lab testing has confirmed that water is safe to drink with no contaminants and that there is no longer a need for the boil water advisory. We apologize for the delay in getting results as we have to use an outside laboratory and have no control over their processes and time to completion.

We wish to thank the Town of Franklin water/sewer crews who worked to repair the line, and thank those who have been impacted for their patience and understanding. Also, to the media, thank you for sharing the information with citizens.

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Safe Turning Restriction Implemented in Jackson County

**Editor's Note** A number of hydroplaning accidents have occurred at and near this location just west of Dillsboro, NC over the past few years, some of them leading to very serious injuries.

PRESS RELEASE (12-15-2023) NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

 Safe Turning Restriction Implemented in Jackson County

NCDOT engineers continue examining U.S. 74/441

WHITTIER – N.C. Department of Transportation officials recently installed a new traffic pattern on U.S. 74/441 at Bradley Branch Road due to excessive water ponding issues in the center turn lane.

All cross-over turning movements are now prohibited by reflective bollards. 

Local NCDOT engineers are exploring temporary and long-term solutions to provide local residents with safe and convenient access from U.S. 74/441 — including the possibility of re-opening the cross-over.
 
“Safety is the top priority for the us, and recent conditions have proven not to be up to our high standards,” NCDOT District Engineer Chris Lee said. “We understand this will temporarily inconvenience some drivers in Jackson County. We are looking at ways to improve safety and traffic flow at locations along the highway.”

Currently, traffic from Bradley Branch Road must turn right onto U.S. 74/441 West and use turnaround opportunities if needed to drive east. Eastbound traffic desiring Bradley Branch as a destination must continue to east to a turnaround spot. The designated turnaround locations have been posted with new signage indicating locations and type of vehicles that can be accommodated. 

NCDOT is currently investigating opportunities to improve drainage at Bradley Branch Road in an effort to safely reopen the eastbound left-turn lane in the spring.

Additionally, a new pattern to improve safety will be installed in the coming weeks on U.S. 74/441 at the Wilmont Road intersection to prevent left-turns from Wilmont Road onto U.S. 74/441 West. This improved pattern will use reflective bollards with new pavement markings to indicate the permitted movements, including. 

NCDOT plans to install this new pattern in the coming weeks so drivers should pay close attention for work zone lane closures that may cause minor traffic delays.

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FEMA and FCC Plan Nationwide Emergency Alert Test for Oct. 4, Sending Messages to all TVs, Radios and Cell Phones

Photo provided by FEMA.

FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) this fall. The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Backup testing date is Oct. 11.

IPAWS National Test ASL | FEMA







Prueba Nacional IPAWS | FEMA







The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4.

The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. This will be the third nationwide test, but the second test to all cellular devices. The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.

The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test.

FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.

The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. In case the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the back-up testing date is Oct. 11.

The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The WEA test will be administered via a code sent to cell phones.

This year the EAS message will be disseminated as a Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System-Open Platform for Emergency Networks (IPAWS-OPEN).

All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:

• Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET, cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message.

• For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”

• Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”


WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.

Important information about the EAS test:

• The EAS portion of the test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers and wireline video providers.

• The test message will be similar to the regular monthly EAS test messages with which the public is familiar. It will state: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.


Published at 12.01am on Tuesday, October 03, 2023 Material from multiple FEMA resources used for this article.

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Tips for Dealing With the Heat This Week

Temperatures will be in the mid 90s (and the Heat Index near 100) in the lower elevations of Macon County for a few days this week, so here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim of the heat wave:

The long-range forecast is calling for temperatures to go above 90 in the lower elevations of Macon County in a couple of weeks, so a few tips have been posted below to help you plan and deal with the heat and heat-related illnesses.


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With higher temperatures and increased humidity comes a danger of over-heating when we're outdoors playing or working. Here are some preventative measures from the Centers for Disease Control that you can take to keep from becoming ill in hot weather:

BEAT THE HEAT: THREE SIMPLE STEPS

Heat illness can be prevented. Remember these three things: water, rest, and shade.

• WATER: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. A good rule of thumb is to drink 4 cups of water every hour. It is best to drink a small amount of water every 15 minutes.
• REST: Rest breaks help your body recover.
• SHADE: Resting in the shade or in air-conditioning helps you cool down.

MORE STEPS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK

Here are some other ways you can prevent illness from the heat:

• Report symptoms of heat illness right away.
• Wear light-colored cotton clothing.
• Wear a hat.
• Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
• Watch out for your coworkers.
• Know where you are working in case you need to call 911.

Below are some tips from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration on dealing with heat-related illnesses:

Heat-related Illnesses and First Aid

Heat stroke, the most serious form of heat-related illness, happens when the body becomes unable to regulate its core temperature. Sweating stops and the body can no longer rid itself of excess heat. Signs include confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that may result in death! Call 911 immediately.

Heat exhaustion is the body's response to loss of water and salt from heavy sweating. Signs include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, and heavy sweating.

Heat cramps are caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating. Low salt levels in muscles cause painful cramps. Tired muscles—those used for performing the work—are usually the ones most affected by cramps. Cramps may occur during or after working hours.

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is skin irritation caused by sweat that does not evaporate from the skin. Heat rash is the most common problem in hot work environments.

The chart below shows symptoms and first aid measures to take if a worker shows signs of a heat-related illness.

HEAT CHART HERE

More tips and safety advice can be found on the National Weather Service website. [LINK]

Be safe and have fun when you're out and about and remember to keep plenty of water with you so can stay hydrated.




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If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only. Macon Media rewards early sponsors/underwriters with lifetime guaranteed low rates while newer sponsors/underwriters pay higher rates based on the date they first support Macon Media.

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

Published at 12:00 pm on Monday, August 21, 2023

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Data and information sources: Sources (except where otherwise credited): Centers for Disease Control, National Weather Service Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and Cameron Beccario of Point B Studio.

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Avoiding Collisions with Deer

Photo by Bobby Coggins

The North Carolina Department of Transportation reports that from 2019 to 2021, there have been 171 crashes, 5 people have been injured and damages totaling $563,300 in Macon County due to deer strikes. Statewide during the same time period, there have been 59,837 crashes, 11 of them fatal to motorists, 2,693 total injuries, and $173,522,686 in damages due to deer strikes.

About half of those crashes occur in October, November, and December, but no month is free of deer strikes.

How to Avoid Striking a Deer (Consumer Reports)

See the article that goes with the above video at https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/how-to-avoid-collisions-with-deer-this-fall-a2981072345/

Below (after the sponsor segment) are important tips from various expert sources regarding animal (usually deer) crashes:

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North Carolina Department of Transportation:

• Always maintain a safe amount of distance between your vehicle and others, especially at night. If the vehicle ahead of you hits a deer, you could also become involved in the crash.

• Slow down in areas posted with deer crossing signs and in heavily wooded areas, especially during the late afternoon and evening.

• Most deer-vehicle crashes occur where deer are more likely to travel, near bridges or overpasses, railroad tracks, streams and ditches.

• Drive with high beams on when possible and watch for deer eyes reflecting in the headlights.

• Deer often travel in small herds so if you see one deer near a road be alert for others. If you see deer near a road, slow down and blow your horn with one long blast

• Do not swerve to avoid a collision. This could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and cause a more serious crash.

• If your vehicle does strike a deer, do not touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can be dangerous or further injure itself. Get your vehicle off the road, if possible, and call 911.

More from the North Carolina Department of Transportation at https://www.ncdot.gov/initiatives-policies/safety/driving-safety/Pages/deer-collisions.aspx

North Carolina Wildlife:

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission recognizes the growing problems with deer-related accidents in our state. As both human and deer populations continue to grow, some of these accidents are unavoidable. Here are some steps that may help a motorist avoid many of these accidents:

• Deer are most active near daylight and dusk and on dark, overcast or foggy nights. Motorists should reduce their speed during these times, especially in areas known to be frequented by deer.

• Drive with headlights on high beam when possible. Watch for eyes reflecting in your lights, especially at field edges or posted deer crossing areas. If you see deer, immediately reduce your speed, even though the deer may be a considerable distance from the road.

• Your headlights may cause them to panic and run at any time.

• If you see a deer cross the road in front of you, don't assume that all is clear. Deer often travel in groups and one will often cross right behind the other.

• Don't place your confidence in "deer whistles" or other "ultra-sonic" devices claiming to prevent deer collisions. We are aware of no scientific evidence that these devices are effective.

• Support legal and ethical hunting as a means of keeping deer numbers at levels where they can be enjoyed by all.

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Published at 2:12pm on Thursday, February 02, 2023
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Structure Fire on Mountain Brook Way (Highlands Fire District)

 There is a report of a structure fire on Mountain Brook Way (off Turtle Pond). Macon County EMS and Highlands Fire department are responding. Cullasaja Gorge and Scaly Mountain Fire Departments are mutual aid.

Please use caution in the area.

#WNCscan #MaconTraffic 

Published at 9:46pm on Saturday, December 24, 2022

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UPDATES

**10:15pm**

A family has been rendered homeless by this fire. If Macon Media learns of a fundraiser, the information will be added to this post.

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Governor Declares October 15th Slow Down, Move Over Day in North Carolina

PRESS RELEASE (10-15-2022)
NC GOVERNOR

SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER DAY 2022 BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

A PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, law enforcement officers, firefighters, public service utility workers, emergency medical personnel, highway crews, and tow operators conduct valuable and often life-saving operations at the roadside; and

WHEREAS, these personnel are called to duty at all hours of the day and night, in adverse weather conditions, and in dangerous roadside environments; and

WHEREAS, workspace is often limited within the highway right of way, placing workers dangerously close to passing vehicles; and

WHEREAS, across the country, emergency workers, incident responders, and highway workers arc put at risk, often resulting in injury or death; and

WHEREAS, the towing industry is fifteen times deadlier than all other private industries combined, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and

WHEREAS, while all fifty states have Slow Down, Move Over laws, fewer than 30 percent of Americans know these laws, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and

WHEREAS, there is a need for the public to be educated on the dangers of failing to abide by these laws; the third Saturday in October is recognized as national Slow Down, Move Over Day;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2022, as "SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER DAY" in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.

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With fall wildfire season underway in North Carolina, Forest Service agencies urging the public to use caution

Logos modified my MaconMedia.com

 

PRESS RELEASE (10-13-2022)

NATIONAL FORESTS IN NORTH CAROLINA

RALEIGH, NC (October 10, 2022) – With the impending arrival of fall wildfire season, the USDA Forest Service and N.C. Forest Service are reminding the public to exercise caution when engaging in recreational burning.

Peak months for the fall fire season run from October through early December and fires left unattended can get out of hand quickly, becoming wildfires that may threaten lives and property. Escaped fires due to careless backyard burning continue to be the leading cause of wildfires in North Carolina.

“Fall weather and the beautiful changing foliage in North Carolina draws people outdoors to take in activities such as camping, hiking or working in their yards to dispose of leaves and other yard debris,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “When choosing to build a campfire, grill out in your yard or eliminate leaves by burning, it is important that you remain vigilant and safe with any outdoor fire to protect our forests. You are our best defense against wildfires.”

For fiscal year 2021-2022 there were 6,887 wildfires that burned 26,958 acres in North Carolina. Only 1% of those wildfires were directly linked to a natural ignition source such as lightning. The other 99% of wildfires during that span were directly related to human activity. Some of the state’s most intense wildfires during the fall of 2021 were caused by escaped campfires.

In November 2021, the Sauratown Mountain Fire in Stokes County burned more than 40 acres but required 16 days to control and fully contain due to the steep and difficult terrain. Shortly after on Nov. 27, 2021, the Grindstone Fire, the largest wildfire during North Carolina’s 2021 fall wildfire season, ignited at Pilot Mountain State Park in Surry County and eventually burned 1,050 acres. Both incidents were caused by escaped campfires.

For those who choose to burn, the N.C. Forest Service offers the following tips:

• Make sure you have a valid permit. You can obtain a burn permit at any N.C. Forest Service office or authorized permitting agent, or online at https://www.ncforestservice.gov/burn_permits/burn_permits_main.htm.
• Don’t burn on dry, windy days.
• Keep your fire small, not tall.
• Be sure you are fully prepared before burning. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. Keep a phone nearby, too.
• Never use kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to speed up burning.
• Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfires thoroughly with water. Drown all embers, not just the red ones. When soaked, stir the coals and soak them again. Make sure everything is wet and that embers are cold to the touch. If you do not have water, mix enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire, being careful not to bury the fire. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area.
• Never leave your fire. Stay with it until it is completely out.

The USDA Forest Service offers the following guidelines for safely extinguishing campfires and helping to prevent wildfires:

• Allow the wood to burn completely to ash, if possible.
• Pour lots of water on the fire, drown ALL embers, not just the red ones.
• Pour until the hissing sound stops.
• Stir campfire ashes and embers with a shovel.
• Scrape the sticks and logs to remove any embers.
• Stir and make sure everything is wet and that embers are cold to the touch.
• If you do not have water, use dirt. Pour dirt or sand on the fire, mixing enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire.
• Continue adding or stirring until all remaining material is cool.
• Do NOT bury the fire as the fire will continue to smolder and could catch roots on fire that will eventually get to the surface and start a wildfire.

“Always exercise caution with any outdoor burning. Even when burn bans are not in effect, weather conditions may not be favorable for outdoor fires,” Troxler said. “Outdoor burning is discouraged during periods of low humidity or high winds.”

Studies have shown that taking these and other measures can reduce the possibility of wildfires. To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and loss of property, visit www.ncforestservice.gov and www.smokeybear.com. For more information and tips to help create a defensible space around your home and protect your property from wildfire, visit www.resistwildfirenc.org.

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NCDOT, SHP Stress Move Over Law First responders from two state agencies share their stories

 PRESS RELEASE (08-11-2022)

NC DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION

Two state first responder professions are facing the same, major problem.

The Move Over Law requires drivers to change lanes when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights. But drivers aren’t always adhering to the law, and that can cause life-altering situations.

“It’s just sad, because it’s totally preventable.” N.C. State Highway Patrol Trooper Joseph Atwell said.

You have to move over, if you are unable to move over because of the traffic conditions you have to significantly reduce your speed.

Roger Hawkins, an N.C. Department of Transportation safety patrolman said, “this is a thing we deal with every day.”

“You have to keep your eyes peeled all the time," Hawkins said. 

Atwell and Hawkins agree drivers do not follow the law often. Both careers put them on the side of an interstate week after week with vehicles whizzing by.

“Vehicles are more than likely our No. 1 threat here on the highway patrol... there’s no excuse and it’s something I’ve dealt with personally,” Atwell said.
This summer, both Hawkins and Atwell encountered drivers not moving over. 

Hawkins was on Interstate 40 in Pender County assisting a truck driver with a flat tire. When the job was complete, he thought all went well, and he got back in vehicle. 

“I looked in my mirror and I saw this car coming at a high rate of speed and it ran just right in the back of me,”  he said. “If you see lights, don’t think just because they’re yellow they don’t mean anything.”

The crash caused Hawkins' driver seat to break, and he was looking at the ceiling. Luckily, his brakes and seatbelt were on and he survived. Hawkins was back to work in a matter of days. 
 
Atwell said when he pulls a driver over, “if we’re anywhere near an interstate, I will attempt to do a passenger side approach so that if something does happen, I’ll be on the passenger side of that vehicle – away from any danger.”

A few weeks ago, the Trooper was assisting deputies with a suspected drunk driver on a Wake County highway.

“I was walking around my vehicle – I was going to get in the driver’s side," Atwell said. "The sheriff’s deputy stopped and asked me one question and it stopped me just long enough to pause and then that vehicle hit [my car]. If he hadn’t have asked me that question – that would’ve been my body.”

It was another suspected drunk driver who failed to move over. 

Together, NCDOT and NCSHP have a simple message: move over. 

Hawkins said, “so you can slow down and take your time, not only for your life, but everyone else’s life that’s around you too. Because almost all of us have family too.”

“If you just look up and quit texting and driving, quit drinking and driving - just move over – all this could’ve been avoidable," Atwell added.

For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.

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President's Column | It’s Important to Be Prepared and Make Smart Choices When You Engage in Summer Fun

School is out and summer is here! Summer brings busier schedules and we become more adventurous, getting outside and engaging in activities like hiking, biking, and swimming. If you’re like me, these fun pastimes also bring on muscle aches and bruises in places I didn’t even know existed.

In addition to the fun, being outdoors more puts us at higher risk for broken bones, sunburn/poison, insect bites, injuries, and the complications associated with them. A sudden increase in vigorous physical activity can also contribute to a more serious health problem, like a heart attack or stroke. Just like when we encourage individuals not to be “weekend warriors” and shock their bodies with sudden, overly challenging physical activity — like when people rush out in the winter to shovel vast amounts of heavy snow — we should also take it easy when we start being more active in the warmer months. It’s always good to gradually work up to a higher rate of activity intensity. In other words, it’s better to start out walking and gradually progress to a short run, and so on, so you can avoid being that 1 in 6 individuals who suffers a heart attack.

A major concern in this beautiful land of lakes and waterfalls is water safety. Although I can get spooked thinking about the slithery creatures lurking beneath the water’s surface, they’re not what cause the most injury and death. It’s swimming, which poses a 1 in 1,024 chance of death. Drowning and something called “dry drowning,” a serious condition where a person experiences a lung injury and muscle spasms due to water aspiration, present serious risks to swimmers. Dry drowning doesn’t look like what we think of as drowning, because it can happen very fast and only requires a small amount of water to do its harm. Remember to practice good water safety techniques when you decide to venture into any body of water. This means having swimming mastered and wearing a life jacket if you’re canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or boating.

And no matter what fun summer activity you participate in — even if it’s laying in a chaise by the pool and reading — never underestimate the power of the sun. It’s important to keep yourself well hydrated with an ever-present water bottle and to use UV-blocking sun protection in the form of a sunscreen that has a strength of at least SPF 30. It’s safer to limit your direct exposure to the sun and seek shade during the “prime” sun intensity hours of between 10am and 4pm.

Outdoor lovers also have a 1 in 6,368 risk of death from sunstroke, or heatstroke, a serious condition caused by sustained sun exposure in high temperatures and lack of hydration. Symptoms of heatstroke include a temperature of 104 degrees or higher (a true medical emergency that requires immediate care), headache, dizziness, red, hot skin, and a lack of perspiring. You may also experience nausea or vomiting, rapid heart rate and breathing, and muscle cramping. I can’t emphasize enough that if you have any of these symptoms, it’s critical to get to an Emergency Department as soon as possible.

If you’re doing yard work, biking, or hiking, insect bites and stings can be more than a nuisance, especially if you have an allergy. Those allergic to bee stings should always be equipped with an epinephrine pen, which prevents you from going into anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition.

Mountain biking and hiking in our beautiful mountains are also associated with various risks. Try to go hiking with a buddy, remember your cell phone as it’s equipped with GPS capabilities, and don’t forget water, snacks, and a jacket. Stay up-do-date on weather conditions, so you don’t find yourself in the path of a storm, and take care to avoid an ankle sprain by steering clear of slippery surfaces like wet, moss-covered rocks. Finally, be mindful of waterfall safety by reading posted warning signs well and following their guidelines. Waterfall accidents cause a number of deaths each year in western North Carolina.

The good news is that these summer-related health issues are preventable, simply by following safety guidelines, being familiar with each condition’s symptoms, and knowing what to do if you or someone you’re with experiences them. In short, remember to drink water, slather on the sunscreen, wear your protective gear like sunglasses, bike helmets, and life jackets, and stay aware of your surroundings.

If you run into trouble or need medical attention this summer, don’t delay seeking it. A call to 911 initiates a chain of care that’s more successful the earlier it starts. It has the power to improve the continuity of efficient, effective care you get once you reach Angel Medical Center (AMC), and so does providing your caregivers with an accurate medication list and medical history information.

In June, we also recognize Men’s Health Month, National Nursing Assistants Week (June 16- 22), Health Care Risk Management Week (June 20-24), and National Safety Awareness month, all good things to celebrate.

I hope you enjoy getting out this year, remember to stay safe, and if you need us, know that AMC is your center for both community emergency care and total health care.

About Clint

Clint Kendall, FACHE, MBA, MSN, BSN, RN, is Chief Executive Officer/Chief Nursing Officer of Angel Medical Center. He started his career as a nurse, and that perspective still informs his work and passion for the patient experience. Clint holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Nursing, and Health Care Management from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Carolina University. He comes to Angel Medical Center from Andalusia, Alabama, where he served as Chief Executive Officer of Andalusia Health, part of LifePoint Health. Clint has also earned the Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) certification, and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE), and the American Nurses Association (ANA).

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NCDOT Using Improved Way to Communicate with Private Traveling Apps

PRESS RELEASE (01-26-2022)
NCDOT

 

RALEIGH – State transportation officials hope a new way for travel apps to receive data will make driving in North Carolina work zones safer.

Travel apps that warn drivers of work zones can now get the information more efficiently from the N.C. Department of Transportation under a federal initiative.

The department is partnering with one.network, a transportation technology provider of real-time work zone, road incident and event information, to more fully automate the data that popular apps, such as Google and Apple, receive to update their maps.

The company has translated NCDOT’s work zone information into Work Zone Data Exchange standard, which sets a standard way of  sharing work zone data to third party apps. The Federal Highway Administration is spearheading the exchange to help make traveling safer through a more efficient way of accessing data on work zone activities across the nation.

“This improvement will lead to more timely updates for travelers using third-party map apps, making our work zones even safer,” said Kelly Wells, NCDOT’s traveler information engineer who oversees the department’s DriveNC.gov website. “And while it may seem a long ways off, this new functionality will be needed for us to better communicate with autonomous and connected vehicles in the future.”

There are currently about 300 work zones for NCDOT construction or maintenance projects across North Carolina.

Right now, various states have their own way of communicating information about road work. In some cases, third-party apps must manually update this information. States even have different ways to describe road conditions. For example, some states say “breakdown lane” when referring to the “shoulder,” and others say “blocked” lane when referencing a lane that has closed.

The Work Zone Data Exchange makes all of that data uniform. While the NCDOT has joined a handful of other states that have implemented the exchange, North Carolina has become the first to take it statewide. This improvement is possible through the partnership with one.network, which has created and will maintain the data exchange feed for the third-party apps.

“We’re thrilled to be working with North Carolina and their innovative traffic management group,” said James Harris, one.network’s founder and chief executive officer. “Making work zone data available in real-time is crucial to saving lives and reducing congestion and NCDOT is putting a stake in the ground.”

The NCDOT’s mobile-friendly website for travelers, DriveNC.gov, has not changed through this federal initiative. It functions the same for the public.

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Published at 1:00pm on Wednesday, January 26, 2021
Author: Bobby Coggins

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Have a Safe and Happy New Year's Eve and New Years Day

 Have a Safe and Happy New Year's Eve and New Years Day

Be extra careful if you are traveling tonight and early tomorrow, as we could have some storms moving through the area around that time and be on the lookout for drunk drivers and potential accidents, along with debris in the roadway. There will also be extra traffic as people travel to and from various holiday events and parties. Some of them have already started.

Macon Media will post information about road conditions, traffic hazards, and accidents on Facebook at Facebook.com/MaconMediaNews, Twitter at twitter.com/WNCscan, and on Mewe at https://mewe.com/p/maconmedianews Other resources include Waze at https://www.waze.com/en/live-map/directions?latlng=35.18170079071401%2C-83.38129520416261 and the Google Maps Traffic Layer at https://www.google.com/maps/@35.18202,-83.38136,1432m/data=!3m1!1e3!5m1!1e1 Both show traffic jams, accidents, and other traffic hazards to avoid or account for in your travels. Both have voice notifications of hazards if you install their apps on your phone or internet-connected tablet.

Remember to be safe, be kind, and be patient on the roads.

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK

Isolated thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and tonight. One or two could be strong enough to produce damaging wind gusts, mainly along and near the Tennessee border. Cloud-to-ground lightning will be the main threat from any storms that develop.

New Years Day through early Monday...

A strong cold front is expected to cross the region on Sunday. Ahead and along the cold front, another round of thunderstorms and heavy rain can be expected, mainly Saturday night and Sunday morning.

A few severe storms may be possible Saturday night into Sunday, with the main threat being damaging wind gusts. Large hail and an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Heavy rain could produce localized flooding. Any thunderstorms will produce cloud-to-ground lightning.

The precipitation that lingers into Sunday evening will change to snow across the mountains by late evening. A light accumulation of snow will be possible, mainly at high elevations along the Tennessee border. The threat for snow should end around daybreak Monday.

#WNCscan #MaconTraffic #MaconSafety #WNCnews

Published at 3:20pm on Friday, December 31, 2021

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40th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Candlelight Service

In accordance to Public Law 107-51, the American flag should be lowered to half-staff on Sunday, October 3 sunrise to sunset. This half-staff is in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

There were 87 firefighters who lost their lives since last year's memorial. Regrettably, this is one of the most overlooked half-staff memorials, probably due to being held on a Sunday. I hope everyone will make a strong effort to comply with this important event honoring our firefighters.

On October 16, 2001, President George W. Bush signed legislation asking that the American flag to be lowered to half-staff on all Federal buildings to honor fallen firefighters.



40th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend Candlelight Service

A PROCLAMATION ON FIRE PREVENTION WEEK, 2021

During Fire Prevention Week, we honor our brave firefighters and first responders who risk their lives to protect us every day and reaffirm the importance of fire safety and preparedness. This week, I call on all Americans to educate themselves about fire prevention and safety and recommit to taking the necessary steps to prevent fires. Whether you are in your own home or camping in one of America’s majestic National Parks, taking the proper precautions and safety measures can help prevent fires and save your life and the lives of your family and others while protecting our natural wonders.

Already this year, more than 44,000 wildfires have burned nearly 5.3 million acres of our land — an area roughly the size of the State of New Jersey. These fires have destroyed homes and priceless memories. They have forced families into shelters and filled the air with smoke for hundreds of miles. Precious lives have been lost. The fires have ground local economies to a halt, swallowed up family farms, and disrupted supply chains that fuel jobs, businesses, and communities all across the country.

These fires represent a code red for our Nation — and we know that, unless we take bold action to address climate change, they will only continue to gain in frequency and ferocity. Scientists have warned us for years that extreme weather will only get more extreme, and today we are living it in real time. Extreme weather, including wildfires, cost America $99 billion last year; unfortunately, we are poised to break that record this year.

That is why my Administration is committed to taking on the threat of climate change and investing in America’s resilience. We have proposed investing billions of dollars to strengthen our wildfire preparedness, resilience, and response. These investments will not just save lives and homes — they will also save industries and create new jobs. When I think about climate change, I always think about the millions of good-paying, union jobs we can create — but we also need to think about all of the jobs and industries we stand to lose if we fail to act boldly enough. The evidence is overwhelming that every dollar we invest in our resilience saves us six dollars down the road, when the next fire does not spread as widely and homes and businesses are spared.

Our response to this threat starts with our brave firefighters, who put their lives on the line every day. To better support the wildland firefighters who serve our Nation so courageously, my Administration is committed to making sure that we have enough firefighters on call who are trained, equipped, and ready to respond. That is why I took action this summer to ensure that all of our Federal firefighters will earn a minimum of $15 an hour. My Administration has increased wildland firefighter pay through bonuses and retention pay, extended seasonal firefighter employment to ensure robust response throughout the fire season, deployed new fire detection and air monitoring technologies, invoked the Defense Production Act to increase the supply of equipment, and brought additional aircraft and personnel to bear from both the Department of Defense and our partner nations.

During Fire Prevention Week, I call on all Americans to educate themselves about fire safety, take the appropriate precautions when encountering fires, and honor our courageous firefighters, volunteers, and first responders. I also encourage everyone to install and maintain smoke alarms in their homes — critical elements of fire safety that have helped significantly decrease United States home fire death rates over the past 40 years. By testing alarms every month and replacing them every 10 years, we can be better prepared to respond quickly to fires and prevent tragic loss of life.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 3 through October 9, 2021, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 3, 2021, in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will be flown at half-staff at all Federal office buildings in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I call on all Americans to participate in this observance with appropriate programs and activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-sixth.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

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Published at 4:20am on Sunday, October 03, 2021
Author: Bobby Coggins

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