Morning Briefing: Preparing for the Fourth

1. Weather: There's a 40 percent chance of rain or thunderstorms today, particularly after 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. The temperature is expected to climb to 97 degrees today, with a low tonight of 73 degrees.

In Case You Missed It: There are various road construction projects in progress this week. .

Is the preamble to the TSPLOST ballot biased in favor of the tax? , and uses his own ballot to make his point. As always, we want to hear from you on this crucial issue.

. The man and two sympathetic groups are holding a 24 hour, seven day a week vigil at the home until an agreement is reached that will keep the man in his home. 

Happening Now: The wants your help to . This female pit bull was found in the vicinity of Sandy Plains Road on Monday. If the dog is not reunited with her owner soon, she will have to be sent to Forsyth County Animal Control.

Looking Ahead on Northeast Cobb Patch: You've taken precautions to stay out of the sun and avoid heat-related health issues during the dog days of summer, but have you done the same for your dogs? If you're in need of overheating avoidance tips for your pets, look for an article with plenty of useful information at 8 a.m.

On This Date in History: On July 3, 1863, the final day of the Battle of Gettysburg, PA, reached its climax when Confederate troops under the command of George E. Pickett attempted to destroy the center portion of the Union Army's line. Heavily entrenched and facing an enemy marching nearly a mile over open ground, the Union Army fought off "Pickett's Charge," and turned the tide of the Civil War.