October 2020 Franklin Town Council Agenda Updated with Video of Meeting

The Franklin Town Council Agenda for the October 2020 Meeting has been released. A copy of the public agenda and the agenda packet is posted below. The video will go live just before 6pm tonight. See the video of the September 2020 meeting. [LINK]


Recorded Video 

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.

Roll Call
(media outlets with representative physically present in the council chambers, as well as elected critters are listed here)

All members of the town council were present in person except Mike Lewis, who joined the meeting via telephone.

The Franklin Press and Macon Media each had one representative at the meeting. All other outlets were absent.  


Public Agenda

Town of Franklin Council
Agenda • Monday, October 05, 2020 • 6:00 p.m.

1. Call to Order - Mayor Bob Scott
2. Pledge of Allegiance - Vice Mayor Barbara McRae
3. Adoption of the October 5, 2020 Town Council Agenda - Town Council

4. Approval of the Consent Agenda for October 5, 2020 - Town Council
A.) Approval of September 8, 2020 Town Council Minutes
B.) Budget Amendments

5. Public Hearing at 6:05 p.m. for Re-Zoning Petition for 668 Dowdle Mountain Road
A.) Board Action on Re-Zoning Petition for 668 Dowdle Mountain Road
6. Public Session

7. Old Business:
A.) Discussion on Town of Franklin Leave Share Policy - Town Manager Summer Woodard

8. New Business:
A.) Update from Franklin Chamber of Commerce Regarding Annual Christmas Parade - Executive Director Linda Harbuck
B.) Discussion on Town of Franklin Bereavement Policy - Town Manager Summer Woodard
C.) Discussion on Town of Franklin COVID-19 Expenditure - Town Manger Summer Woodard

9. Legal
A.) Discussion on Proposed Lease with Root and Barrel - Town Attorney John Henning Jr.

10. Adjourn


Agenda Packet 

Download Agenda Packet [PDF]

Read More

Clerk of Court in Macon County Closed October 5th-7th for COVID-19 Testing

The Macon County Clerk of Court Office will be closed October 5th through the 7th for COVID-19 testing. Additional information will be published when it becomes available.

The clerks office is closed due to Covid-19 testing.

Hours of operation:

Clerk's Office

Closed

Instructions:

Note on front for filings.

Alternate filing location:

The Magistrates office5 West Main StreetFranklin, North Carolina 28734

Alternate filing contact:

(828) 349-7219

Maps and directions

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.

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Monday, October 5, 2020

OUTLOOK

High pressure and quiet weather will prevail through much of this week. Temperatures will at least briefly rebound to above normal mid- week in response to weak ridging overhead. Rain chances may increase next weekend depending on the track of a tropical system.


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---



DAY SPONSOR

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

Their phone number is 371-4718.

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



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---



News Brief
(no news brief today)



General forecast through Wednesday night


Today

Patchy fogin the morning. Otherwise, partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with highs mostly in the 60s with a few locations in the lower elevations reaching 70 or so. Calm winds.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to the mid-to-upper 40s in the lower elevations. Calm winds.

Tuesday

Sunny, with highs ranging from the upper 60s in the higher elevations to the mid-70s in the lower elevations. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the 40s. Calm winds.

Wednesday

Sunny, with highs ranging from the low 70s in the lower elevations to near 80 in the higher elevations.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the mid-40s in the higher elevations to the lower 50s in the lower elevations.



HAZARDS

Hazardous weather is not expected...unless you consider fall-like conditions a hazard.

Air Quality

Air quality is in the upper range of green for most of the county, including the ridges and other higher elevations today.

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low-medium range (4.2 out of 12) with ragweed, chenopods, and grasses being the main culprits. Tomorrow is expected to be a little higher in the low-medium range (4.3 out of 12).


Weather Extremes for Macon County for October 5th

Highest Temperature 91°F in Franklin in 1954 Lowest Temperature 25°F at the Coweeta Exerimental Station in 1968 Greatest One-Day Rain 3.67 inches at the Coweeta Exerimental Station in 1964 Greatest One-Day Snowfall (no snowfall has been recorded on this date since records began in 1872 

TROPICAL WEATHER
(The North Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to Nov 30th)



Tropical Tidbit from Levi Cowan (video recoded yesterday afternoon)

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Mon Oct 5 2020

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

The National Hurricane Center is issuing advisories on Tropical Storm Gamma, located over the extreme southern Gulf of Mexico just north of the Yucatan Peninsula, and on newly formed Tropical Depression Twenty-Six, located over the northwestern Caribbean Sea just south of Jamaica.

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

Tropical Depression Twenty-Six Discussion Number 2
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL262020
1100 PM EDT Sun Oct 04 2020

Satellite data indicate that the disturbance just south of Jamaica has become better organized this evening. Microwave and shortwave infrared images indicate that the center is now well defined, and deep convection has been persisting near and to the south of the center. Based on this data, the system now meets the criteria to be considered a tropical depression. The initial intensity remains 30 kt for this advisory.

The depression is currently moving west-northwestward at 8 kt on the southern side of an Atlantic subtropical ridge. A continued west-northwest to northwest motion at about the same forward speed is expected during the next 24 to 36 hours, taking the system across the Cayman Islands and toward western Cuba. Around the time the depression is expected to be near western Cuba, the models show it accelerating northwestward as it moves in the faster flow between the ridge and Tropical Storm Gamma. This motion should bring the tropical cyclone into the southern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday night or early Wednesday. Later on, a notable slow down and a turn to the north is forecast to occur late in the week when the depression will likely be approaching the northern Gulf coast. This change in the forecast motion is a result of the ridge weakening and a trough approaching the cyclone from the west. The models are in relatively good agreement, which is surprising since they often diverge for weak systems, and the NHC track forecast lies near the middle of the guidance envelope.

There is currently some northeasterly shear affecting the depression, but the models all show the shear lessening by tomorrow and remaining fairly light for the next few days. These improving upper-level wind conditions combined with a moist air mass and warm waters should allow for at least steady strengthening during the next few days. By late in the week, when the storm is forecast to approach the U.S. Gulf coast, there could be an increase in southerly or southwesterly shear, which could limit additional strengthening by that time. The NHC intensity forecast lies fairly close to the IVCN and HCCA consensus aids, and shows the depression becoming a hurricane near western Cuba with additional strengthening over the Gulf of Mexico.

Users are reminded that the average 4- and 5-day NHC track forecast errors are about 160 to 200 miles at those time periods, respectively.

Key Messages:

1. Tropical storm conditions are expected in the Cayman Islands beginning late Monday, and a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect.

2. Dangerous storm surge and hurricane conditions are possible in portions of western Cuba and the Isle of Youth by Tuesday afternoon, and a Hurricane Watch is in effect.

3. Heavy rainfall will affect portions of Hispaniola, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and western Cuba during the next few days and could lead to life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

4. The system is forecast to approach the northern Gulf Coast late this week as a hurricane. While there is large uncertainty in the track and intensity forecasts at these time ranges, there is a risk of dangerous storm surge, wind, and rainfall hazards along the coast from Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle. Residents in these areas should monitor the progress of the system and check for updates to the forecast during the week.


FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS

INIT 05/0300Z 17.0N 77.3W 30 KT 35 MPH
12H 05/1200Z 17.4N 78.3W 35 KT 40 MPH
24H 06/0000Z 18.3N 79.8W 40 KT 45 MPH
36H 06/1200Z 20.0N 81.9W 50 KT 60 MPH
48H 07/0000Z 22.2N 84.4W 65 KT 75 MPH
60H 07/1200Z 24.1N 87.0W 80 KT 90 MPH
72H 08/0000Z 25.4N 88.8W 85 KT 100 MPH
96H 09/0000Z 27.2N 90.4W 90 KT 105 MPH
120H 10/0000Z 30.0N 89.9W 75 KT 85 MPH...INLAND




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 3:30am Monday, October 05, 2020

Weather Briefing for Sunday, October 4, 2020

OUTLOOK

Weak high pressure today will give way to a dry cold front that is expected to cross the region tonight. Another high pressure air mass will build in behind the front on Tuesday and is expected to control our weather for the rest of the week.


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---





Weather Sponsor



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

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

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


--- END SPONSOR SEGMENT---



News Brief


Today is the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial observance. Flags are to be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset. [LINK]  

General forecast through Tuesday night


Today

Patchy fog in the morning. Otherwise, cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with highs in the 60s with some locations in the lower elevations perhaps reaching 70. Calm winds. 

Tonight 

 Patchy fog after 5am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to the mid-40s in the lower elevations. Calm winds. 

 Monday 

 Patchy fog in the morning. Otherwise, sunny, with highs ranging from the 60s in the higher elevations to near 70 in the lower elevations. Calm winds. 

 Monday Night 

 Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to the mid-to-upper 40sin the lower elevations. Calm winds. 

Tuesday 

 Sunny, with highs ranging from the 60s in the higher elevations to the lower 70s in the lower elevations. Light and variable winds. 

 Tuesday Night 

 Mostly clear, with lows mostly in the 40s with some locations in the lower elevations perhaps hanging on near 50.



HAZARDS

Areas of patchy frost are possible this morning, especially above elevations of 5000 ft.

Air Quality

Air quality is in the upper range of green for most of the county, including the ridges and other higher elevations today.

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low-medium range (4.1 out of 12) with ragweed, chenopods, and grasses being the main culprits. Tomorrow is expected to be a little higher in the low-medium range (4.1 out of 12).


Weather Extremes for Macon County for October 4th

Highest Temperature 89°F in Franklin in 1954 

Lowest Temperature 23°F in Franklin in 1974 

Greatest One-Day Rain 9.91 inches in Highlands in 1964 Greatest One-Day Snowfall (no snowfall has been recorded on this date since records began in 1872 

TROPICAL WEATHER
(The North Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to Nov 30th)



Tropical Tidbit from Levi Cowan 

(video recorded yesterday afternoon)

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Sun Oct 4 2020

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

The National Hurricane Center is issuing advisories on Tropical Storm Gamma, located just north of the Yucatan Peninsula over the extreme southern Gulf of Mexico.

1. A tropical wave accompanied by a small low pressure system is located over the central Caribbean Sea a couple of hundred miles southeast of Jamaica. Although the associated shower and thunderstorm activity is currently disorganized, environmental conditions are expected to gradually become conducive for development, and a tropical depression is likely to form during the next couple of days. The system should move west-northwestward at about 15 mph across the central and western Caribbean Sea today and Monday, and then move into the southern or southeastern Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday and Wednesday. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds will be possible across portions of Hispaniola, Jamaica, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands during the next few days, and interests on those islands should monitor the progress of this disturbance. * Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...60 percent. * Formation chance through 5 days...high...80 percent.

2. Disorganized showers and thunderstorms continue in association with a tropical wave located over the central tropical Atlantic. Some slow development of this system is possible during the next couple of days while it moves west-northwestward or northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. Significant development is not expected beyond that time due to the system moving into a region of strong upper-level winds.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.

3. An area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms over the central Atlantic more than 1000 miles east-southeast of Bermuda is associated with a surface trough of low pressure. This system is expected to move toward the west-southwest at around 10 mph, and some slow development is possible during the next couple of days before it too encounters strong upper-level winds.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...10 percent.






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 4:40am Sunday, October 04, 2020

Read More

Weather briefing for Saturday, October 3, 2020 President Trump Flown to Walter Reed Hospital

OUTLOOK

Broad Canadian high pressure will continue to spread over the area today, bringing cool and dry autumn weather. A reinforcing cold front is expected to cross the area Sunday night, followed by another cool high pressure airmass that will keep our weather fair into the middle of next week.


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---





Weather Sponsor



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

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

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


--- END SPONSOR SEGMENT---



News Brief

The President has tested positive for COVID-19 [LINK] and has been flown to Walter Reed Hospital out of an abundance of caution. He will spend the next several days in the Presidential Suite, which has offices he and his staff can work out of while he is seconds away from medical assistance. A brief section of video and links to news stories relating to this follows.


President Trump to Walter Reed Medical Center




Coronavirus Pandemic Update 110: Trump's Risk Factors and COVID-19 Prognosis; Interferon





Trump, stricken by COVID-19, flown to military hospital [LINK]

Biden campaign pulls down attack ads as Trump departs White House for hospital [LINK]

The President Contracting COVID-19 Is A Major National Security Crisis [LINK]

Pentagon 'stands ready to defend our country' in wake of Trump's diagnosis [LINK]

Trump COVID infection thrusts world in uncharted territory [LINK]



Governor Cooper Moves North Carolina to Phase 3 With Stable Numbers 

Safety precautions set for large outdoor and some indoor venues [LINK] 

Executive Order 169 begans Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. and continues for three weeks through October 23. Its new provisions include:

•Large outdoor venues with seating greater than 10,000 may operate with 7% occupancy for spectators. •Smaller outdoor entertainment venues, like arenas or amphitheaters, may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Movie theaters and conference centers may open indoor spaces to 30% of capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Bars may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Amusement parks may open at 30% occupancy, outdoor attractions only.
•The limits on mass gatherings will remain at 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors.
•The 11 pm curfew on alcohol sales for in-person consumption in locations such as restaurants and outdoor bars will be extended to October 23.

State and public health officials will continue watching the key COVID-19 trends over the next several weeks to determine if any further restrictions can be eased when the current Executive Order expires on October 23rd.


COVID-19 Cluster identified at Macon County Sheriff's Office

Macon County Public Health has identified a cluster of employees at the Macon County Sheriff’s Office who have tested positive for COVID-19. A cluster is defined as a minimum of 5 cases with illness onset or positive results within a 14-day period. All staff who have potentially been exposed to these individuals have been contacted and will be tested for COVID-19.

In addition to Macon County Sheriff’s Office staff, MCPH is working to identify any additional close contacts of these individuals. The CDC defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with an infection with COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time of 15 minutes or longer. Based on information provided by each staff person, county health officials will assess risks of exposure, determine which if any additional measures are needed such as temperature and symptom checks, quarantine and/or testing.

MCPH’s Medical Director and Macon County Sheriff’s Office are working together to limit the spread of COVID- 19 among staff and the community.

See the Sheriff's social media post about the situation. [LINK]



County Commissioners Select New County Attorney

After a closed meeting lasting almost an hour and a half, the Macon County Board of Commissioners returned to open session and voted 3-2 (Higdon and Gillespie voting no) to instruct Derek Roland (the county manager) to enter into negotiations with Fred Jones to replace the retiring Chester Jones as new County Attorney after October 31st. Macon Media and The Franklin Press were the only media outlets present in the boardroom. Videos are posted below. A more complete article and edited video will be published later.


Part 1 (Before the closed session)



Part 2 (After the closed session)






September 28, 2020, Macon County Board of Education Meeting




General forecast through Monday night


Today

Patchy frost before 7am. Otherwise, sunny, with highs in the 60s. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to thelower 40s in the lower elevations. Calm winds. Sunday Sunny, with highs in the 60s. Calm winds. Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to the lower 40s in the lower elevations. Calm winds. Monday Sunny, with highsin the 60s. Monday Night Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the upper 30s in the higher elevations to the lower 40s in the lower elevations.



HAZARDS

Areas of patchy frost are possible this morning, especially above elevations of 3500 ft.

Air Quality

Air quality is in the upper range of green for most of the county, including the ridges and other higher elevations today.

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low-medium range (3.8 out of 12) with ragweed, chenopods, and grasses being the main culprits. Tomorrow is expected to be a little higher in the low-medium range (4.3 out of 12).


Weather Extremes for Macon County for October 3rd

Highest Temperature 88°F in Franklin in 1954 Lowest Temperature 24°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1974 Greatest One-Day Rain 7.03 inches in Highlands in 1898 Greatest One-Day Snowfall (no snowfall has been recorded on this date since records began in 1872 

TROPICAL WEATHER
(The North Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to Nov 30th)

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Sat Oct 3 2020

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

The National Hurricane Center is issuing advisories on Tropical Storm Gamma, located over the northwestern Caribbean Sea.

1. A tropical wave is producing widespread cloudiness, showers, and thunderstorms over the eastern and central Caribbean Sea, with locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds affecting portions of the ABC Islands, the Lesser Antilles, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Environmental conditions are expected to become a little more conducive for development, and a tropical depression could form next week while the system moves westward or west- northwestward at about 15 mph across the central and western Caribbean Sea.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...medium...40 percent.

2. Shower activity has increased since yesterday in association with a tropical wave located about midway between the coast of Africa and the Lesser Antilles. Some slow development of this system may occur during the next several days as it moves generally westward to west-northwestward.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...10 percent.






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 3:45am Saturday, October 03, 2020

Read More

Governor Cooper Orders Lowering US and NC Flags to half-staff from sunrise to sunset Monday, October 5 in honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day National Observance is on Sunday

Press Release
NC Governor
October 2, 2020

Governor Roy Cooper has ordered all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Monday, October 5 in honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day. In accordance to Public Law 107-51, flags are to be lowered annually in recognition of the many firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

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.

**END PRESS RELEASE**



In accordance to Public Law 107-51, the American flag should be lowered to half-staff on Sunday, October 4 sunrise to sunset. This half-staff is in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Please note the national observance is on Sunday and the state observance is on Monday.

There were 82 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.

The President's 2020 Proclamation will be added below when it is released. Meanwhile, here is the 2019 Proclamation for Firefighters Memorial Day and Fire Prevention Week:

Presidential Proclamation on Fire Prevention Week, 2020

During Fire Prevention Week, we are reminded to keep doing our part to prevent fires before they tragically claim lives and destroy homes, businesses, and natural resources.  Every American can play a role in raising awareness about preventing fires and taking simple precautions to help prevent fire-related deaths and injuries.  We also commend our Nation’s brave firefighters and emergency workers who risk their health and safety each day, and we solemnly remember those who gave their lives in service to protect Americans and our communities.  This week, I encourage all Americans to take steps to prepare their family, property, and community on what to do before, during, and after a fire.

This year, courageous firefighters and other brave Americans have confronted one of the worst fire seasons in our history.  We have seen more than 43,500 wildfires, lost more than 10,000 buildings, and 35 people have tragically died.  In the Western States, more than 30,000 firefighters — the largest deployment in history — have battled these fires, risking their lives for their fellow Americans’ safety.  My Administration is thankful for the assistance from our National Guard, Navy, Marine Corps, and international partners from Canada and Mexico to help end this devastation.

This tragic fire season is another reminder of the importance of effective forest management, which can play a big role in helping prevent forest fires.  Proactive steps such as cleaning forest floors to remove flammable limbs and leaves can help reduce the risk of large fires and improve the health of our Nation’s forests.  In 2020, I have approved more than 30 Stafford Act Declarations, including Fire Management Assistance Grants, to help multiple States stop fires, and we continue to encourage active forest management efforts throughout the country.

This year, we also give special recognition to the many American firefighters who joined the valiant efforts of our Australian allies in fighting bushfires that killed hundreds of people and countless animals and destroyed thousands of homes.  Tragically, three Americans perished in this courageous effort.  These heroes, all veterans of the United States Armed Forces, embodied the very best of the American spirit in their desire to help others, and we will always honor their memory.

Home fires are also a cause for significant concern.  Cooking fires are one of the most common types of residential fires, and fires in the home can start easily if the right precautions are not taken.  I recommend that Americans take active steps to protect themselves and their families at home, including by testing smoke alarms once a month and replacing them after 10 years, as recommended by the United States Fire Administration.  Additionally, it is important to have a fire escape route in place so all are prepared for how to leave the home if a fire does occur.  We can all do our part to prevent fires in and around our homes to protect the lives of our families and neighbors.

Throughout this Fire Prevention Week, we come together to recognize the threat posed by fire, honor the lives it claims each year, and recommit to preventing fires in our homes, businesses, and across this great Nation’s wildlands.  I encourage all Americans to reduce fire deaths, injuries, and property loss through prudent preparation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 4 through October 10, 2020, as Fire Prevention Week.  On Sunday, October 4, 2020, 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 third day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fifth.

DONALD J. TRUMP

Read More

NC Attorney General Josh Stein Advises People to Take Action to Get Your COVID-19 Federal Recovery Payments Before Oct. 15

There are an estimated 9 million people who have not yet claimed their COVID-19 economic impact payments from the federal government. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided payments of up to $1,200 per individual to help with the financial burdens caused by COVID-19, but individuals must act by Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020, to receive their payments.

Most individuals who haven’t received their payments yet don’t usually file tax returns, but they are still eligible to receive recovery payments if they share additional information with the IRS.

Individuals who didn’t file a federal tax return for 2018 or 2019 (because they made below the $12,200 gross income amount required to file taxes or for other reasons) and don’t receive Social Security retirement or other federal benefits should submit their personal and financial information to the IRS here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here

People who have already received an EIP prepaid card should activate it or replace it to receive their money. 

Additional information and resources are available through the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

Attorney General Stein also shared tips to help North Carolinians protect their recovery checks from scammers: https://ncdoj.gov/consumer-alert-dont-lose-your-recovery-money-to-scammers/

Read More

News and Weather Briefing for Friday, October 2, 2020

OUTLOOK

A large surface high dropping down out of Canada today will settle down across the region for most of the weekend, bringing cool and dry autumn weather. A reinforcing cold front is expected to cross the area Sunday night, followed by another cool high pressure air mass that will keep our weather fair into the middle of next week.


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---





Weather Sponsor



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

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

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


--- END SPONSOR SEGMENT---



News Brief



The President and First Lady test positive for COVID-19 [LINK]

Governor Cooper Moves North Carolina to Phase 3 With Stable Numbers 

Safety precautions set for large outdoor and some indoor venues [LINK] 

Executive Order 169 begins Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. and continues for three weeks through October 23. Its new provisions include:

•Large outdoor venues with seating greater than 10,000 may operate with 7% occupancy for spectators. •Smaller outdoor entertainment venues, like arenas or amphitheaters, may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Movie theaters and conference centers may open indoor spaces to 30% of capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Bars may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Amusement parks may open at 30% occupancy, outdoor attractions only.
•The limits on mass gatherings will remain at 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors.
•The 11 pm curfew on alcohol sales for in-person consumption in locations such as restaurants and outdoor bars will be extended to October 23.

State and public health officials will continue watching the key COVID-19 trends over the next several weeks to determine if any further restrictions can be eased when the current Executive Order expires on October 23rd.


COVID-19 Cluster identified at Macon County Sheriff's Office

Macon County Public Health has identified a cluster of employees at the Macon County Sheriff’s Office who have tested positive for COVID-19. A cluster is defined as a minimum of 5 cases with illness onset or positive results within a 14-day period. All staff who have potentially been exposed to these individuals have been contacted and will be tested for COVID-19.

In addition to Macon County Sheriff’s Office staff, MCPH is working to identify any additional close contacts of these individuals. The CDC defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with an infection with COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time of 15 minutes or longer. Based on information provided by each staff person, county health officials will assess risks of exposure, determine which if any additional measures are needed such as temperature and symptom checks, quarantine and/or testing.

MCPH’s Medical Director and Macon County Sheriff’s Office are working together to limit the spread of COVID- 19 among staff and the community.

See the Sheriff's social media post about the situation. [LINK]



County Commissioners Select New County Attorney

After a closed meeting lasting almost an hour and a half, the Macon County Board of Commissioners returned to open session and voted 3-2 (Higdon and Gillespie voting no) to instruct Derek Roland (the county manager) to enter into negotiations with Fred Jones to replace the retiring Chester Jones as new County Attorney after October 31st. Macon Media and The Franklin Press were the only media outlets present in the boardroom. Videos are posted below. A more complete article and edited video will be published later.


Part 1 (Before the closed session)



Part 2 (After the closed session)






September 28, 2020, Macon County Board of Education Meeting




General forecast through Saturday night


Today

Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with highs ranging from the upper 50s in the higher elevations to the mid-60s in the lower elevations. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with lows in the 30s. Scattered frost in the higher elevations. Calm winds.

Saturday

Sunny, with highs ranging from near 60 in the higher elevations to the mid-to-upper 60s in the lower elevations. Calm winds.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the mid-30s in the higher elevations to the low-to-mid 40s in the lower elevations. Calm winds.

Sunday

Sunny, with highs in the 60s with some locations in the lower elevations reaching 70 or so. Calm winds.

Sunday Night

Patchy fog in the morning. Otherwise, mostly clear, with lows in the 40s.



HAZARDS

Hazardous weather is not expected today. As cool high pressure settles into the area tonight, areas of frost will be possible, especially above elevations of 3500 ft.

Air Quality

Air quality is in the upper range of green for most of the county, including the ridges and other higher elevations today.

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low-medium range (4.6 out of 12) with ragweed, chenopods, and grasses being the main culprits. Tomorrow is expected to be a little lower in the low-medium range (3.6 out of 12).


Weather Extremes for Macon County for October 2nd

Highest Temperature 89°F in Franklin in 1954 Lowest Temperature 27°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1946 Greatest One-Day Rain 2.97 inches in Highlands in 1988 Greatest One-Day Snowfall (no snowfall has been recorded on this date since records began in 1872 

TROPICAL WEATHER
(The North Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to Nov 30th)

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Fri Oct 2 2020

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

1. Satellite imagery indicates that shower activity associated with the broad low pressure are over the northwestern Caribbean Sea is becoming better organized. Environmental conditions are expected to be conducive for a tropical depression or a tropical storm to form later today or Saturday if the system remains over the waters of the northwestern Caribbean Sea or southern Gulf of Mexico. Interests in the Yucatan Peninsula and northern Central America should monitor the progress of this system as it moves generally northwestward, as tropical storm watches or warning may be required for portions of these areas later today or tonight. Regardless of development, this system is expected to produce heavy rains, with possible flash flooding, over portions of southeastern Mexico, Central America, and western Cuba during the next several days. An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system this afternoon, if necessary.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...high...80 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...high...80 percent.

2. Another tropical wave moving across the eastern Caribbean Sea is producing a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms, accompanied by locally rainfall and gusty winds. This wave is forecast to move westward at 15 to 20 mph during the next several days, and environmental conditions could become a little more conducive for development when the system is over the central or western Caribbean Sea early next week.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...30 percent.






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 4:40am Friday, October 02, 2020

Read More

News and Weather Briefing for Thursday, October 1, 2020

OUTLOOK

A strong, dry cold front will cross our region today ushering in below normal temperatures for the rest of the week. Expect the coolest night to be Friday night, followed by a slight warming trend, as our weather stays somewhat cool into next week. Little if any rain is expected for at least a week.


---BEGIN SPONSOR SEGMENT---


DAY SPONSOR

Macon Media is being underwritten today by Franklin Health & Fitness, home of #ResultsForEveryone.

To see updates related to COVID-19, please click: franklinhealthandfitness.com

There are also On-Demand Fitness Videos located at https://franklinhealthandfitness.com/blog/




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---



News Brief


Governor Cooper Moves North Carolina to Phase 3 With Stable Numbers 

Safety precautions set for large outdoor and some indoor venues [LINK] 

Executive Order 169 begins Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. and continues for three weeks through October 23. Its new provisions include:

•Large outdoor venues with seating greater than 10,000 may operate with 7% occupancy for spectators. •Smaller outdoor entertainment venues, like arenas or amphitheaters, may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Movie theaters and conference centers may open indoor spaces to 30% of capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Bars may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity, or 100 guests, whichever is less.
•Amusement parks may open at 30% occupancy, outdoor attractions only.
•The limits on mass gatherings will remain at 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors.
•The 11 pm curfew on alcohol sales for in-person consumption in locations such as restaurants and outdoor bars will be extended to October 23.

State and public health officials will continue watching the key COVID-19 trends over the next several weeks to determine if any further restrictions can be eased when the current Executive Order expires on October 23rd.


COVID-19 Cluster identified at Macon County Sheriff's Office

Macon County Public Health has identified a cluster of employees at the Macon County Sheriff’s Office who have tested positive for COVID-19. A cluster is defined as a minimum of 5 cases with illness onset or positive results within a 14-day period. All staff who have potentially been exposed to these individuals have been contacted and will be tested for COVID-19.

In addition to Macon County Sheriff’s Office staff, MCPH is working to identify any additional close contacts of these individuals. The CDC defines close contact as being within approximately 6 feet of a person with an infection with COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time of 15 minutes or longer. Based on information provided by each staff person, county health officials will assess risks of exposure, determine which if any additional measures are needed such as temperature and symptom checks, quarantine and/or testing.

MCPH’s Medical Director and Macon County Sheriff’s Office are working together to limit the spread of COVID- 19 among staff and the community.

See the Sheriff's social media post about the situation. [LINK]



County Commissioners Select New County Attorney

After a closed meeting lasting almost an hour and a half, the Macon County Board of Commissioners returned to open session and voted 3-2 (Higdon and Gillespie voting no) to instruct Derek Roland (the county manager) to enter into negotiations with Fred Jones to replace the retiring Chester Jones as new County Attorney after October 31st. Macon Media and The Franklin Press were the only media outlets present in the boardroom. Videos are posted below. A more complete article and edited video will be published later.


Part 1 (Before the closed session)



Part 2 (After the closed session)






September 28, 2020, Macon County Board of Education Meeting




General forecast through Saturday night


Today

Patchy fog in the morning. Otherwise, partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with highs in the 60s to near 70 in the lower elevations. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight

Clear, with lows ranging from the mid-30s in the higher elevations to the low-to-mid 40s in the lower elevations. Winds out of the northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday

Sunny, with highs ranging from the upper 50s in the higher elevations to the mid-60s in the lower elevations. Calm winds in the morning increasing to come out of the northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the 30s. Some locations may see temps dip below freezing. Calm winds.

Saturday

Patchy frost in the morning. Otherwise, sunny, with highs in the 60s.
Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with lows ranging from the mid-30s in the higher elevations to the mid-40s in the lower elevations.



HAZARDS

As cool high pressure settles into the mountains tonight, areas of frost will be possible, especially above elevations of 3500 ft.

Air Quality

Air quality is in the upper range of green for most of the county, including the ridges and other higher elevations today.

Pollen

Pollen levels are expected to be in the low-medium range (4.7 out of 12) with ragweed, chenopods, and grasses being the main culprits. Tomorrow is expected to be low-medium also (4.3 out of 12).


October Weather Extremes for Macon County

Highest Temperature 91°F in Franklin on Oct 5, 1954 Lowest Temperature 12°F in Highlands on Oct 30, 1910 Greatest One-Day Rain 9.91 inches in Highlands on Oct 4, 1964 Greatest One-Day Snowfall 1.0 inches in Highlands on Oct 20, 1913 

TROPICAL WEATHER
(The North Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to Nov 30th)

span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">

Tropical Weather Outlook
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
200 AM EDT Thu Oct 1 2020

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

1. Showers and thunderstorms located over the west-central Caribbean Sea are associated with a tropical wave. A broad area of low pressure is expected to form in a day or so over the northwest Caribbean Sea or the extreme southern Gulf of Mexico in the vicinity of the wave as it moves slowly west-northwestward. Conditions are forecast to be conducive for development thereafter in that region, and a tropical depression could form over the weekend as the system meanders. Interests in Belize, the Yucatan Peninsula, and western Cuba should monitor the progress of this disturbance.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...high...70 percent.

2. Another tropical wave located a couple hundred miles east of the Lesser Antilles is producing widespread cloudiness and disorganized shower activity. This disturbance is forecast to move westward during the next several days where environmental conditions could become a little more conducive for development over the central or western Caribbean Sea by early next week.

* Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent.
* Formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.






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 4:30am Thursday, October 01, 2020

Read More