Notice

I am working on the template of this blog today in order to chase down some problems that have developed with my template and widgets.

Macon County Commissioners

Coverage of the meetings of the Macon County Board of County Commissioners.

Franklin Town Board of Aldermen

Coverage of the meetings of the Franklin Town Board of Aldermen.

Macon County School Board

Coverage of the meetings of the Macon County School Board.

Photoblog

Photos from my photoblog.

nullspace for future use

nullspace for future use

About

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Daily Weather Briefing for Wednesday, May 6, 2020






OUTLOOK

The last in a series of weather disturbances will cross the area today with showers and thunderstorms likely. Temperatures will fall to below normal by Thursday, then cooling off even more by the weekend.

Severe Weather Liveblog for Monday, May 5, 2020 [LINK]

Governor Issues Executive Order 138 to Ease Pandemic Restrictions on May 8th at 5pm [LINK]

Franklin Town Council holds regular monthly meeting for May 2020 [LINK]

County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Wednesday

Today

Mostly sunny in the morning, then partly sunny with scattered showers in the afternoon. Breezy, cooler with highs ranging from the mid-50s to the lowe 60s. Winds out of the northwest15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.

Tonight

Partly cloudy and breezy. Lows ranging from near 40 down to the mid-30s. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

Thursday

Sunny. Highs in the 50s to near 60. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear in the evening, then mostly cloudy with a chance of rain after midnight. Lows ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-30s. Winds out of the southwest around 5 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Friday

Showers. Highs ranging from the lower 50s to the upper 50s. Chance of rain 80 percent.

Friday Night

Mostly cloudy with rain likely in the evening, then partly cloudy with a chance of rain or snow after midnight. Little or no snow accumulation. Lows ranging from the mid-30s to around 30. Chance of precipitation 70 percent.


Hazards

Hazardous weather is not expected today. Thunderstorms are possible this afternoon.

End Daily Weather Segment







Begin COVID-19 Briefing



The CDC website [LINK] reports 11,848 people in North Carolina are infected, 430 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 12,256 confirmed cases, 534 hospitalized and 452 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 12,510 people infected and 472 deaths (these include non-residents located in NC).

Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]


CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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






Published at 5:00am on Wednesday, May 06, 2020




Govenor Issues Executive Order 138 to Ease Pandemic Restrictions on May 8th at 5pm



Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 138 on Tuesday, May 5th moving the state to Phase I that will lift restrictions that were put into place to slow the spread of SARS CoV-2, the disease that causes COVID-19, the coronavirus spread. The executive order will take effect Friday at 5pm.





The stay-at-home order will remain in place but more reasons to leave will be allowed and distinctions between essential and non-essential businesses will be removed with occupancy rates from 25% of capacity raised to 50%. 


People are encouraged to wear face coverings in public. Bars, personal care businesses, entertainment venues, and gyms will still be closed by order of the Governor. Restaurants will be allowed to continue to-go orders and delivery but no in-house seating will be allowed in Phase I. Small outdoor gatherings of no more than 10 people will be allowed, and people must maintain social distancing. Childcare centers will be allowed to reopen with strict cleaning guidelines. Summer day camps will be allowed to open as long as they follow strict cleaning guidelines. Churches will be allowed to hold outdoor services with more than 10 people and participants must maintain at least six feet of physical distancing.

Copies of the executive order and supporting documents explaining the order are embedded below.



North Carolina Executive Order #138




Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)



A Chart Showing What Changes When Phase I Takes Effect May 8th at 5PM?






CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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

Published at 4:05am on Wednesday, May 6, 2020


Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Severe Weather Liveblog for Monday, May 5, 2020



Live blog of Severe Weather for Monday, May 5, 2020

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.



Live Blog Posts will be in reverse chronological order, with newer posts on top and older posts below.



9:32pm Macon County EMS and Franklin VFD are responding to a report of a structure fire on Melody Lane. Mountain Valley and Cullasaja-Gorge VFDs are providing mutual aid on this call. Please avoid the area for the next three hours or so.

6:40pm Highlands VFD is responding to a report of a structure fire on Clematis Lane in Jackson County to provide mutual aid to Cashiers VFD.


6:16pm The heaviest rains have moved out of the county. We're on the clear for now. If more storms form, I will reactive this liveblog and add the new material. Meanwhile, here is a look at all the lightning strikes in Macon County and the immediate surrounding area this afternoon. Wow!






6:05pm I have started a page for Macon Media on Mewe in response to the banning on Facebook. [LINK] Learn more about Mewe at https://mewe.com/about

6:00pm Cullasaja Gorge VFD is investigating a report of a lightning strike at a residence on Featherstone Drive. 


5:25pm Here is a radar of more storms headed this way. These will be impacting the central and southern sections of the county over the next hour or so. The yellow arrow shows the general direction of travel.




5:17pm Power Outage Update
Most of the outages appear to be in an area stretching along the Little Tennessee River northwest from Franklin and another in the Burningtown Community. Duke estimates it will be several hours before service is restored in most of these areas.

Macon County: 2,460 of 28,179 meters out (8.73%)

Duke Energy 2,460 of 25,687 out as of 5:00pm
Haywood EMC 0 of 2,335 out as of 5:00pm



5:03pm Here is a recent multiple lightning strike.



4:50pm I am working on battery power and will continue to post here as long as the battery in my laptop will permit.


4:46pm Duke Energy still has not updated their map page with any outage data [LINK] 


4:44pm Here is a look at the lightning strikes this afternoon. The brighter colors are newer and the darker colors are older. The circles indicate current soundwaves.



See in action for yourself. [LINK]

4:40pm Here is the latest from the National Weather Service regarding the weather this evening and what they believe will happen:

As of 430 PM: A severe thunderstorm watch has been posted for all of Upstate SC and much of western NC through 11 pm. The main question mark for the severe weather evolution this evening is the lingering stationary boundary across the heart of the forecast area, which will retreat only slightly northward ahead of the advancing cold front. The boundary will certainly serve as a focus, along with the advancing embedded upper shortwaves. This will lead to very high coverage, and likely severe weather, near the Interstate 85 corridor through mid evening. Anticipate large hail and occasionally damaging wind gusts as the primary threat, but brief tornadic spinups near the stalled frontal zone are quite possible through 8 or 9 pm. Will likely end up cancelling the watch from the west steadily through the evening hours as the upper support moves rapidly east.

4:36pm More heavy rain is moving into the area. Here is a radar map showing the storms coming in from the west. Most of these appear to be headed to the central sections of the county.




4:29pm Several of you have reported via Facebook that the power is out in various areas of the county. So far, Duke has not updated their maps to reflect any outages in the county. I will post them when they become available.

As of right now, Duke Energy reports:

All Counties - Carolinas
Active Power Outages:119
Total Customers Without Power:5,183
NC - Customers Without Power:4,306
SC - Customers Without Power:877


4:24pm The severe thunderstorm has moved out of the area.

4:20pm This is a mesoscale discussion that was published at 3:22pm and I missed it. This gist of it is that conditions are expected this evening to be favorable for the development of severe weather conditions this evening. So please be careful if you have to be out on the roads. Power outages may be possible, so have a flashlight handy.


IMAGE



Mesoscale Discussion 0542
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
0222 PM CDT Tue May 05 2020

Areas affected...Portions of far eastern TN...northern GA/SC...and
western/central NC

Concerning...Severe potential...Watch possible

Valid 051922Z - 052115Z

Probability of Watch Issuance...60 percent

SUMMARY...An increasing severe risk is expected this afternoon. Isolated large hail, damaging winds, and perhaps a couple tornadoes may occur. Watch issuance is possible.

DISCUSSION...At the surface, veered southwesterly flow ahead of an eastward-moving cold front currently across middle TN and northern AL has limited low-level convergence along its length so far this afternoon. As a weak surface low continues to develop over the central Appalachians this afternoon and evening, its associated cold front will intersect an increasingly unstable airmass across eastern TN and northern GA. Orographic lift across the higher terrain of eastern TN and western NC in tandem with the cold front should aid in additional storm development across this region by 20-22Z.

Across the Carolinas, a surface wedge front has moved little so far today. Some breaks in the low/mid-level clouds have recently occurred over this region, with heating now occurring to the north of this boundary across parts of western/central NC. Current expectations are for this boundary to make some northward progress as a warm front across NC through the remainder of the afternoon and into the early evening as the surface low continues to develop eastward. A moist and at least weakly unstable airmass is present ahead of the cold front and south of the wedge front. Steepened mid-level lapse rates of 7-8 C/km are also contributing to around 500-1500 J/kg of MLCAPE, with localized potential for even stronger instability along/south of the front across the Carolinas later this afternoon and early evening.

Any storms that form over the higher terrain of eastern TN/western NC/northern GA will have the potential to become severe as they move eastward, with 40-50 kt of effective bulk shear being supported by a belt of strong westerly mid-level flow preceding an upper trough over the Midwest/OH Valley. A semi-discrete supercell storm mode appears possible initially, with both a large hail and damaging wind risk. With time, upscale growth into a small bowing cluster may occur along the warm front in the Carolinas. If this occurs, then damaging winds would probably become the primary risk. A couple tornadoes also cannot be ruled out along the length of the boundary across the Carolinas, where backed low-level flow may locally enhance effective SRH.


4:16pm Here is the text of the Thunderstorm Watch that is in effect for western North Carolina until 11pm tonight:

URGENT - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 168
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
355 PM EDT Tue May 5 2020

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southern North Carolina
Northern South Carolina

* Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 355 PM until 1100 PM EDT.

* Primary threats include...
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2 inches in diameter possible
A tornado or two possible

SUMMARY...A cluster of thunderstorms over western North Carolina will track eastward along a warm front, affecting the watch area this afternoon and evening. Locally damaging wind gusts and hail are possible in the strongest cells. An isolated tornado is also possible.

The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles northwest of Anderson SC to 45 miles east of Fayetteville NC. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

REMEMBER...A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce tornadoes.

&&

AVIATION...A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector 27035.

4:08pm I observed a Franklin fire truck go back to the fire station, so perhaps the accident on US-441 was not that bad. Still exercise caution if you're in the area.

3:58pm An accident has occurred on US-441 near Druid Hills Road. Caller reports a car has flipped and landed in the median. Macon County EMS and Franklin VFD are responding.


3:55pm A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for most of western North Carolina until 11pm tonight. The image at the top of this post reflects the area impacted.





Strong Thunderstorm in North Central Macon County
Storm to Impact Area Until 4PM





Macon County is under a Special Weather Statement in regards to a strong thundertorm in the northern part of the county. Please be careful.

(I could not post on the full account because I am temporarily banned from Facebook and cannot use my news pages. You people who reported the news page for promoting hate speech should be ashamed of yourselves)

Here is a copy of the watch:

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
331 PM EDT Tue May 5 2020



...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL IMPACT NORTHERN RABUN AND SOUTHEASTERN MACON COUNTIES UNTIL 400 PM EDT...

At 331 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 8 miles northwest of Clayton, or 5 miles west of Dillard, moving east at 20 mph.

Locations to be impacted include...
Clayton, Mountain City, Dillard, Sky Valley, Black Rock Mountain State Park, Tiger, Lake Burton, Scaly Mountain and Otto.

Wind gusts up to 45 mph and half inch hail will be possible in these areas.




Daily Weather Briefing for Tuesday, May 5, 2020






OUTLOOK

A series of weak disturbances will cross the area today and tomorrow, with showers and thunderstorms likely. Temperatures will fall to below normal by Thursday, cooling off even more by the weekend.

Franklin Town Council holds regular monthly meeting for May 2020 [LINK]

County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]

---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Thursday

Today

Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Scattered showers this morning, then numerous showers this afternoon. Highs ranging from the upper 60s to the lower 70s. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph this afternoon. Chance of rain 60 percent.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. Showers likely with a chance of thunderstorms in the evening, then a chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the 40s. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. Chance of rain 60 percent.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny. Cooler with highs in the 50s. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph in the morning.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy. Lows in the 30s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Sunny. Highs in the 50s to around 60. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 30s to the lower 40s.


Hazards

Showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected to return across the area this afternoon and evening. Some of the storms will become severe with damaging winds, large hail, and even an isolated tornado possible. Heavy rainfall is also expected with some of the storms leading to the potential for isolated flooding.

End Daily Weather Segment









CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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






Published at 6:15am on Tuesday, May 05, 2020




Monday, May 4, 2020

Franklin Town Council May 2020 Regular Meeting




The Franklin Town Council will be meeting tonight at 6pm. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and their interpretation that the ten-person limit of public gatherings applies to public meetings, no one from the public or media will be allowed to be in the council chambers during the meeting. The meeting will be livestreamed on the player provided below. (a player will be added once the meeting starts. It can be rewound during the meeting).


A copy of the public agenda and agenda packet are below. No roll will be recorded due to the inability of media outlets to be present in the chambers.


Part 1



Part 2 (after the closed session)


Town of Franklin Council
Agenda • May 04, 2020 • 6:00 p.m.

1. Call to Order - Mayor Bob Scott
2. Pledge of Allegiance - Vice Mayor Barbara McRae
3. Adoption of the May 4, 2020 Town Council Agenda - Town Council

4. Approval of the Consent Agenda for May 4, 2020 - Town Council
A.) Approval of the April 13, 2020 Town Council Minutes
B.) Budget Amendments
C.) Set Public Hearing at 6:05 p.m. June 1, 2020 for Special Use Application for Scenic Ridge Development
D.) Set Public Hearing at 6:10 p.m. June 1, 2020 for Town of Franklin Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Budget
E.) Set Public Hearing at 6:15 p.m. June 1, 2020 for Town of Franklin Comp Plan
5. Public Session

6. New Business:
A.) Presentation from Nikwasi Initiative - Bob McCullum
B.) Presentation on Town of Franklin Water and Sewer Comp Plan - WithersRavanel
C.) Presentation on Town of Franklin Sidewalk Comp Plan - Town Planner Justin Setser
D.) Discussion on Proposal from Macon New Beginnings - Town Manager Summer Woodard
E.) Proposed Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Town of Franklin Budget - Town Manager Summer Woodard
1.) Presentation of Proposed Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Town of Franklin Budget
2.) Set Budget Work Session for Tuesday May 12, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.
7. Legal:
A.) Discussion on Town of Franklin Phased Re-Opening - Town Attorney John Henning Jr.
B.) Closed Session- G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6): To consider the qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee.
8. Announcements
A.) Town of Franklin Budget work session Tuesday May 12, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall BoardroomB.) Town Hall Offices will be closed Monday May 25, 2020 in observance of Memorial Day
9. Adjourn











DAY SPONSOR

Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.

Their phone number is 371-4718.


They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.


Published at 3:47pm on Monday, May 4, 2020

NCDMV License and Registration Expiration Dates Extended 5 Months
Covers credentials with expiration dates from March 1 to August 1






PRESS RELEASE

NCDOT
Raleigh, NC
May 4, 2020




RALEIGH – To assist N.C. Division of Motor Vehicle customers and partners in dealing with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, a provision included in the COVID-19 bill signed into law today by Governor Cooper grants a five-month extension of the expiration date on more than two dozen DMV credentials.

The bill also allows the DMV to waive any penalties for a late registration renewal during the extension period. Customers who already paid a $15 fee for a late renewal in March or April will be reimbursed.


  • Driver license.
  • Learner's permit.
  • Limited learner's permit.
  • Limited provisional license.
  • Full provisional license.
  • Commercial driver license.
  • Commercial learner's permit.
  • Temporary driving certificate.
  • Special identification card.
  • Handicapped placard.
  • Vehicle registration.
  • Temporary vehicle registration.
  • Dealer license plate.
  • Transporter plate.
  • Loaner/Dealer "LD" plate.
  • Vehicle inspection authorization.
  • Inspection station license.
  • Inspection mechanic license.
  • Transportation network company permit.
  • Motor vehicle dealer license.
  • Sales representative license.
  • Manufacturer license.
  • Distributor license.
  • Wholesaler license.
  • Driver training school license.
  • Driver training school instructor license.
  • Professional house-moving license.
The bill also extends the due dates for motor vehicle taxes that are tied to vehicle registration to correspond with the extended expiration dates. In addition, there is also an extension of the expiration of an Intrastate Medical Waiver for up to five months, if the DMV Medical Review Unit determines the extension is appropriate. And it confirms the validity of a driving eligibility certificate dated on or after Feb. 9, and before March 10, to meet the requirements for a license or permit until 30 days after the date the Governor rescinds the State of Emergency Executive Order or the date the DMV reopens all driver license offices, whichever is earlier.

 
***NCDOT***




DAY SPONSOR

Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.

Their phone number is 371-4718.

They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.

Published at 3:25pm on Monday,


Daily Weather briefing for Monday, May 04, 2020






OUTLOOK

Warm and dry high pressure remains over the region today. A series of weak disturbances will cross the area early in the week helping produce showers and a few thunderstorms. Temperatures slowly fall below normal by Thursday. A cold front crosses the area Friday with even colder temperatures and potential frost for Saturday.


County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]

---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.



---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Wednesday

Today

Partly sunny this morning, then becoming mostly sunny. Highs in the 70s to near 80. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Gusts up to 25 mph this morning.

Tonight

Partly cloudy in the evening, then mostly cloudy with showers likely after midnight. Lows in the 50s. Winds out of the west around 5 mph the shifting to come out of the southeast after midnight. Chance of rain 60 percent.

Tuesday

Showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the upper 60s to the lower 70s. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90 percent.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy. Showers and thunderstorms likely in the evening, then a chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the 40s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.

Wednesday

Partly sunny with a chance of showers in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon. Highs in the 50s up to around 60. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy. Lows in the 40s.


Hazards

Hazardous weather is not expected today.

End Daily Weather Segment




DAY SPONSOR

Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.

Their phone number is 371-4718.

They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.


Begin COVID-19 Update



The CDC website [LINK] reports 11,509 people in North Carolina are infected, 420 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 11,664 confirmed cases, 475 hospitalized and 402 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 11,770 people infected and 434 deaths (these include non-residents located in NC).

Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]

Videos


Dr. John Campbell

Sunday 3rd May, Global Update


Saturday 2nd May, Global dangers


Dr Roger Seheult

Coronavirus Pandemic Update 65: COVID-19 and Oxidative Stress (Prevention & Risk Factors)


COVID-19 Clinical Updates & Lessons Learned So Far with Dr. Seheult - Live Webcast Replay






General Articles

These Arizona sheriffs say they won't enforce governor's stay-at-home order. But they don't expect a free-for-all [LINK]



George W. Bush: 'We are not partisan combatants' in fight against coronavirus [LINK]

Bush Calls for Unity. Trump Attacks Bush. And Then a Host of Others. [LINK]

Coronavirus Is Straining the Concept of Federalism [LINK]

France: Re-tested blood of 24 patients treated in December for pneumonia finds Covid-positive [FRENCH]

New Zealand reports 0 new Coronavirus cases for the first time [LINK]

NY Gov lashes out at reopen protests as 299 die of coronavirus overnight: ‘I’m not going to put dollar signs over human lives’ [LINK]

New York Governor announces coalition with six Northeast states to acquire medical supplies by merging resources [LINK]






CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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






Published at 6:00am on Monday, May 03, 2020




Sunday, May 3, 2020

Daily Weather Briefing for Sunday, May 03, 2020






OUTLOOK

Warm and dry high pressure remains over the region today. A series of weak disturbances will cross the area early in the week helping produce showers and a few thunderstorms. Temperatures slowly fall below normal by Thursday. A cold front crosses the area Friday with even colder temperatures and potential frost for Saturday.


County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]

---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Friday

Today

Mostly sunny. Highs anging from the 70s to perhaps the lower 80s. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy in the evening, then mostly cloudy with a chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the 50s. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Monday

Mostly sunny. A chance of showers in the morning. Highs in the 70s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Monday Night

Partly cloudy in the evening, then becoming mostly cloudy. A chance of showers. Lows in the 50s. Winds out of the northwest around 5 mph, then shifting to come out of the southeast after midnight. Chance of rain 50 percent.

Tuesday

Showers likely. Highs ranging from the upper 60s to the lower 70s. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy. Showers likely, mainly in the evening. Lows in the 50s. Chance of rain 70 percent.


Hazards

Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening. Lightning, gusty winds, and brief, heavy rainfall can be expected with any storm.

End Daily Weather Segment







CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.



Become a Patron!

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






Published at 6:30am on Sunday, May 03, 2020




Saturday, May 2, 2020

Daily Weather Briefing for Saturday, May 02, 2020






OUTLOOK

A strong cold front will cross the area and will bring rain and isolated thunderstorms today into tonight. Cool and breezy conditions are expected behind the front Thursday into Friday. Warm and dry high pressure will settle over the region and provide a significant warmup late in the weekend and early next week.

County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]

---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Friday

Today

Mostly sunny. Highs ranging from the mid-60s to the lower 70s. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear. Lows ranging from the lower 50s to the upper 40s. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday

Mostly sunny. Highs ranging from the mid-60s to the upper 70s and few locations could creep into the lower 80s if they are sheltered from the wind. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy in the evening, then mostly cloudy with a chance of showers after midnight. Lows ranging from the upper 50s to the lower 50s. Chance of rain 40 percent.

Monday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 5pm, then a slight chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with highs in the 70s to near 80. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Monday Night

A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 11pm. Partly cloudy, with lows in the 50s. Chance of precipitation is 20%.


Hazards

Hazardous weather is not anticipated for


End Daily Weather Segment










CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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






Published at 6:30am on Saturday, May 02, 2020




Friday, May 1, 2020

Lowering of US and NC Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former NC Senator Tony Rand





Governor Roy Cooper today ordered all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be lowered to half-staff beginning Friday, May 1, 2020 until sunset on Monday, May 4, 2020 in honor of former NC State Senator and Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand, who passed away on Friday. A native of Garner, North Carolina, Rand served more than 20 years in the NC Senate. As Senator he represented North Carolina's 19th District, and served as Chairman of the Rules Committee as well as a right-hand man for Senate President Pro Tem Marc Basnight.



After serving many years within North Carolina's General Assembly, Rand dedicated his time as Chairman of the Post-Release Supervision and Parole Commission and later as Chairman of the NC Lottery Commission.



Statement from Governor Roy Cooper:



"My good friend, former State Senator Tony Rand was the muscle who moved good ideas into great laws. He fought tirelessly for public schools and the UNC system. Behind his brilliant wit and encyclopedic knowledge of North Carolina was a man who deeply loved his family, his state and his Tar Heels. Kristin and I send our love and deepest sympathy to his family and friends, especially his wife Karen and his sons Ripley and Craven."



As a show of respect, individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the duration of time indicated.



Please note, all North Carolina flag announcements are issued in accordance to regulations outlined in the US Flag Code.

Published at 6:55pm on Friday, May 01, 2020



Clarification from Macon County Regarding Essential Businesses and Executive Order #121





Emergency Management has released a series of documents to help people understand the Governor's Stay at Home Order and what is considered an essential business. Copies are posted below.




Press Release

Press Release May 1 2020 10... by Bobby Coggins on Scribd




Executive Order #121

EO121 - Stay at Home Order by Bobby Coggins on Scribd




FAQs

EO121 FAQs by Bobby Coggins on Scribd












Published at 11:26am on Friday, May 01, 2020


Daily Weather Briefing for Friday, May 01, 2020
COVID-19 Update Included






OUTLOOK

A strong cold front will cross the area and will bring rain and isolated thunderstorms today into tonight. Cool and breezy conditions are expected behind the front Thursday into Friday. Warm and dry high pressure will settle over the region and provide a significant warmup late in the weekend and early next week.

County to rescind Emergency Regulations that go beyond the state restrictions on May 8th, to follow state plan to re-open in phases. [LINK]

---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT ---



Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


---END SPONSOR SEGMENT---




General Forecast Through Friday

Today

Sunny, breezy with highs ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Winds out of the northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. A wind field will cross the county between 9am and 6pm today.

Tonight

Mostly clear. Lows ranging from the mid-40s to the upper 30s. Wind chills may dip into the 30s in most locations with some isolated higher elevations seeing wind chills in the upper 20s. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday

Mostly sunny. Highs ranging from the mid-60s to the lower 70s. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear. Lows ranging from the lower 50s to the upper 40s. Winds out of the west 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday

Mostly sunny. Highs ranging from the mid-60s to the upper 70s and few locations could creep into the lower 80s if they are sheltered from the wind. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy in the evening, then mostly cloudy with a chance of showers after midnight. Lows ranging from the upper 50s to the lower 50s. Chance of rain 40 percent.


Hazards

Hazardous weather is not anticipated for today. Brisk winds may cause an isolated power outage. Keep an eye on your plastic lawn chairs.


End Daily Weather Segment






Begin COVID-19 AM Update Segment




Several curated videos and links to articles are posted below to allow you to follow the course of humanity's response to this global pandemic.

ABOVE THE FOLD

Stats for Friday, May 01, 2020, at 5:30am per CoronaWiki.org

Earth

3,325,206 Known Infections
234,617 Known Deaths

USA

1,095,304 Known Infections
63,871 Known Deaths

North Carolina

10,754 Known Infections
406 Known Deaths

Macon County

3 Known Infections
1 Known Death




COVID-19 Update

About Seven-in-Ten U.S. Adults Say They Need to Take Breaks From COVID-19 News [LINK]

Dr. Fauci says coronavirus vaccine could be widely available by January if "things fall in the right place" [LINK]

Amazon reports earnings, plans to spend all Q2 profits ($4B) on coronavirus response [LINK]

No income and number 88,000 in line: This is what it's like to be unemployed in America [LINK]

CLUSTER BOMBS Coronavirus map shows the 22 hotspots where cases could explode as eight states lift lockdowns [LINK]

Top coronavirus model predicts 100,000 Americans dead by the end of this summer's first wave [LINK]

Hundreds of protesters, some carrying guns in the state Capitol, demonstrate against Michigan's emergency measures [LINK]

Protesters argue with police inside Michigan Capitol building



Nurses to anti-lockdown activists: My life's on the line. Go home [LINK]

Covid-19: Why is America’s death toll so high? | The Economist








The CDC website [LINK] reports 9,948 people in North Carolina are infected, 354 have died, and infections are widespread, the NCDHHS website [LINK] reports 10,509 confirmed cases, 546 hospitalized and 378 deaths in the state. The Johns Hopkins Dashboard [LINK] reports 10,754 people infected and 406 deaths (these include non-residents located in NC).

Resources for Reliable Information about the Corona Virus (COVID-19) [LINK]


Videos from Government and Bureaucratic Types

World Health Organization
The latest WHO Briefing was April 27th




White House
There was no briefing yesterday, here are President Trump Delivers Remarks on Protecting America’s Seniors



North Carolina

English


Spanish


Videos From Medical Professionals


Dr. John Campbell

Thursday 30th April, Part One


Part Two


Coronavirus Pandemic Update 59: Dr. Seheult's Daily Regimen (Vitamin D, C, Zinc, Quercetin, NAC)


Coronavirus Pandemic Update 64: Remdesivir COVID-19 Treatment Update



Will 60% Get Coronavirus? w Stephen Fry



Doctor Mike Hansen: How Coronavirus (COVID19) Kills Some People (But Not Others)



GENERAL ARTICLES

Maryland governor says coronavirus tests acquired from South Korea under guard at undisclosed location to protect the tests from seizure by federal government [LINK]

Japanese island suffering second wave of coronavirus after lifting lockdown too early [LINK]

Fauci warns reopening states: 'You can't just leap over things' [LINK]

Whole Foods offering free masks to all customers nationwide [LINK]

Florida stops releasing medical examiners’ coronavirus death counts after they report higher total [LINK]

'She has superhuman DNA:' 101-year-old woman beats COVID-19, has survived 2 pandemics and cancer [LINK] 



Texas reports most deaths in a day from COVID-19 as Gov. Abbott prepares to drop stay-home order [LINK]

$2m worth of wagyu beef donated to US food banks by family farm [LINK]

Chinese Embassy in France Mocks U.S. Coronavirus Response With 'Once Upon a Virus' Animated Video [LINK]



Video from News Outlets

Coronavirus Pandemic (full film) | FRONTLINE



NBC Nightly News Broadcast (Full) - April 30th, 2020 | NBC Nightly News



30 million unemployment claims filed in last 6 weeks



White House reveals plan to fast-track vaccine timeline | WNT





CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.


Become a Patron!

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






Published at 5:40am on Friday, May 01, 2020