By: Elena Vegso
In local news, The Watauga Democrat reported that the blue ridge parkway estimated 15.9 million visitors in 2021. The parkway ranks as one of the most visited destinations in the National Park Service. There has been a 56.8% increase in camping on the parkway since 2014. While overall visitation has stayed relatively stable over the past decade, the most popular destinations have been seeing an environmental impact as a result of the heavy visitation. The National Park Service encourages people to explore all areas of the park and reminds visitors and staff that preservation is a shared commitment among visitors, neighbors and staff.
In state news, The New York Times reports that the North Carolina Superior Court proposed a new map for the state’s 14 congressional districts. Lawmakers from both sides have proposed maps that have been rejected due to unfair advantages. The new map was proposed by a nonpartisan panel of four experts and includes 6 relatively safe districts for both republicans and democrats, leaving 2 swing districts. If the approval of the congressional maps continues to delay, it could cause issues with election schedules.
In national news, The Associated Press reports that the US Postal Service has moved forward with the process of ordering new delivery vehicles. The last fleet of trucks went into effect between 1987 and 1994, and many attribute this to their disadvantage against competitors. The new vehicles faced pushback from the environmental protection agency because the reports made by the USPS overestimated the price of electric vehicles and underestimated the price of gas powered vehicles. Roughly 10% of the new vehicles will be run by electric power.
Today's weather is brought to you by BooneWeather.com Expect a high of 57 with a low of 30, early morning overcast and showers fizzling out in the afternoon, with northwest wind from 10 to 20 miles per hour.