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UKRAINE WAR EDITION

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

February 26, 2023

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes. 

30 Year Anniversary of NC Tech Association


Last Wednesday, I had the honor of spending the evening at the Governor’s Mansion with Governor Cooper and leaders of North Carolina Tech Companies and Leaders to celebrate the thirty year anniversary of the North Carolina Technology Association.  


I will be sharing more about the State of North Carolina Technology in my next newsletter.  It was also great to spend some time with NC Secretary of Technology Jim Weaver, and I look forward to bringing him to Morrisville for the March 23d Smart City Advisory Committee Meeting as our special guest. 


Congratulations to Brooks Raiford and to the NCTA for this milestone anniversary. 

Insights from Governor Cooper on Technology:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/5503738933064049

My Weekly Update

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1668055550320159 

Find over 60 Black History events in Triangle

at https://triangleonthecheap.com/black-history-month/

Help Ukraine by donating at

https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/war-ukraine-support-children-and-families/

Morrisville Alert: 


MAFC Pool is open! Thanks for your patience.   

Breaking News and Important Updates: 

District D Cary Town Council


Sarika Bansal has announced her run for the District D Cary Council Seat.  I am proud of her efforts and support her to make history and become the first Indian American woman to serve on Cary’s Council and the third Asian American woman to serve in Wake County. 


Good Luck Sarika and we look forward to you joining as an elected official!  


Pictured here with Former NC Senator and Utilities Commissioner Floyd McKissick at Black History Event at HSNC.who shares my excitement about her historic run. 

Biden visits Ukraine


Biden visits Ukraine on surprise visit, promises additional $500 million assistance in aid to Ukraine.


https://www.cnn.com/europe/live-news/russia-ukraine-war-news-2-20-23/index.html

Ohio Train Derailment


CDC begins investigation of Toxic Train Derailment! 


https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/ohio-derailment-cdc-begins-investigation-toxic-train-disaster-rcna71948

Transportation Alert:

Morrisville Carpenter Road is Completed!  

Join us on Feb 28th at 11 am for the Ribbon Cutting at the Intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Town Hall Drive.  (Parking at Indian Creek Trailhead at 101 Town Hall Drive, Morrisville, NC 27560) 


Morrisville Carpenter Road Completion Message:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/715357390071539

See Latest National and Global Updates for more Breaking News.  

How does the Ukraine War affect the world? 


Energy Prices, inflation, interest rates, economic growth, food shortages- all depend on how the conflict plays out in the coming months.  Rapid progress by Ukraine could threaten Vladmir Putin, but a grinding stalemate seems the most likely outcome. Russia will try to string out the conflict in the hope that energy shrtages, and political shifts in America will undermine Western support for Ukraine.

One Year Anniversary of Ukraine War

My Message on the Ukraine War: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/742149230605873


In the Midst of War, Ukranians like Misha Shvets keep working in NC Tech Sector, they deserve our support.   

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/03/25/in-midst-of-war-ukrainians-like-misha-shvets-keep-working-in-nc-tech-sector-they-deserve-our-support/


It has been 360 days since Russia invaded Ukraine and waged war against a free and democratic nation.  Neither side has released figures lately, but analysts estimate that about 200,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded in the war so far. By comparison, Ukraine has seen some 100,000 killed or wounded in action, and 30,000 civilian deaths.   


There seems no end in sight to this war at the moment.  Neither side is backing down. 

We pray for Ukraine and are inspired by their resilience.  They are an everlasting reminder of how freedom can never be taken for granted.   


The people of Ukraine remind us that freedom is worth not only fighting for but dying for.  

VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY: AN INSPIRATION TO THE WORLD


FOR THE GLORY OF UKRAINE: A TRIBUTE TO ZELENSY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYBQ8BXY8w0


True leaders emerge in the midst of Crisis.  

 

In the United States, we had General George Washington, who would go on to serve as our first President and lead our great nation, or Abraham Lincoln who saved the Union, or even FDR, whose soothing voice and steadfast leadership led the United States during some of our darkest times.  


India had Gandhi.


South Africa had Mandela.  


All of these leaders still today inspire many in the world that they faced adversity with grace, and stood for the principles of freedom and democracy for all citizens of the world.

  

And now, the world, has President Zalensky, Time Man of the Year, who has inspired not only a nation, but a world, that freedom is not only worth fighting for but dying for.   I am convinced that 100 years, 500 years, or 1000 years from now, generations in the world, will continue to be inspired by this one leader who faced an authoritarian dictator and refused to give up on Democracy.  


We pray for his nation, for his family, and are eternally grateful for his commitment to liberty.  

UKRANIAN ASSOCIATION OF NC CANDLELIGHT VIGIL


On Friday, I attended the Vigil at the State Capitol, and spent a somber and inspiring evening with many community leaders and Ukranian families, including two of my Ukranian friends, Misha Shvts, and Michal Brezinski. 


I was able to address the community, and share with them, that we will continue to support Ukraine along with supporting the community here in the Triangle, who are still dealing with so much uncertainty and fear back home.  

My Remarks to Triangle Ukrainian Community:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/956186522218037

Insights from Misha Shvts:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/763905755134231

THERE IS A PATH TO ENDING THE UKRAINE WAR

-FAREED ZAKARIA FEB 24TH WASHINGTON POST


One year into Russia’s naked aggression against Ukraine, it has become clear that neither side is strong enough to win the war nor weak enough to sue for peace. The conflict has settled into a stalemate. After making impressive gains, Ukraine’s armed forces have not made significant advances in months. Russia meanwhile has dug into the territories it occupies, and its further attacks are having little success so far.


The numbers tell the story. According to a Washington Post analysis, Russia occupied about 7% of Ukrainian territory when it launched its invasion in February 2022. It swept into eastern Ukraine, and in a month it was holding 22% of the country. Then came Ukrainian counter-offensives, which by mid-November had taken back about a third of those gains. In the last three months nothing significant has changed. Ukraine and Russia are both planning new moves, but it would take massive victories to fundamentally change the situation. To put it another way, Ukraine would need to recover roughly twice as much territory as it was able to last year just to get back the lands conquered since the 2022 invasion.  


Read More at: https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/24/opinions/fareed-zakaria-ukraine-column/index.html

UKRANIAN MISHA SVETS INSPIRES INNOVATION

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/03/25/in-midst-of-war-ukrainians-like-misha-shvets-keep-working-in-nc-tech-sector-they-deserve-our-support/


Last year, UNC graduate student and Ukranian, Misha Shvets had been glued to his phone. When war broke out in Ukraine, the young computer scientist immediately called to warn his mother in his hometown of Dnipro. In the following days he spent long hours comforting her as the air-raid sirens howled, and repeatedly tried to reach his father and young siblings as they fled west to escape the bombs.


Misha’s story underscores that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s assault on Ukraine isn’t just a criminal act of war and a humanitarian catastrophe. It’s a disaster that directly impacts the many Ukrainians working in North Carolina’s innovation economy — and it’s yet another reason why the United States needs a skilled-worker system that would help people like Misha stay and work in the United States for as long as they need.


According to the Ukrainian Association of North Carolina, there are almost 21,000 Ukrainians living in our state, and many came here to study and conduct research at our universities, work at our tech companies, or create startups of their own.


It’s thanks to high-skilled Ukrainian immigrants that we now have companies like Upswot, the Charlotte fintech startup that’s now creating scores of jobs across North Carolina. It’s how America got PayPal, co-founded by a Ukrainian entrepreneur, and A.D.A.M, a biotech company whose Ukrainian founder is making painful bone grafts a thing of the past.


Dnipro is an industrial hub known as “Rocket City” because of its importance to the Soviet space program. Misha grew up speaking Russian, and after high school he moved to Moscow to study applied mathematics. After completing a master’s degree, though, he left Russia behind and moved to the Research Triangle. “American universities are where innovation happens,” he says. “It was just the natural thing for me to do.”


Since arriving in the Triangle four years ago, Misha has been able to work with the world’s top AI experts, creating neural networks that can interpret photos and videos. He’s worked with Nuro, a Silicon Valley startup, creating robots that can deliver groceries without human supervision, and also worked at Facebook and Microsoft to improve the tech giants’ image-recognition and VR tools. If Mark Zuckerberg’s “metaverse” takes off, it’ll be thanks to people like Misha.


The impact doesn’t stop there. Misha has also co-authored a paper adapting his team’s image-processing algorithms to detect whether different molecules could be used to treat illnesses. That could turbo-charge drug development, making it easier to create new pharmaceuticals and stay ahead of fast-evolving diseases.


Misha’s journey — from Ukraine, to Moscow, to Chapel Hill — shows why our state’s innovation economy makes us a global leader. Misha got a good education in Russia, but Putin’s control economy simply can’t compete with the free-wheeling vibrancy of the U.S. private sector.


And yet Misha’s ability to remain in the United States is by no means guaranteed. That’s because it’s incredibly hard for STEM graduates and skilled workers to gain visas here in the United States. The H1B skilled-worker system is literally a lottery, and each year many bright young tech innovators wind up having to return to their home countries because they can’t get visas to stay in the U.S.


The White House’s recent expansion of OPT opportunities for STEM graduates is a step in the right direction, and will help many highly skilled international students to find work when they graduate. But with conflict raging in Ukraine, it’s vital that we do more to address this crisis and create a more stable pathway for skilled Ukrainian immigrants to work in the United States.


There are about 200,000 tech workers and IT professionals in Ukraine, and three-quarters of them already work directly with American companies. It’s time to update our skilled-worker visa system, and help U.S. employers to quickly extend job offers both to those already here, and those now fleeing the conflict zone and urgently in need of support.


When he graduates later this year, Misha hopes to help rebuild Ukraine, but he knows that working here — using his skills to help American companies, strengthening Ukraine’s ties to America, and sending money home to his family — might be the best way for him to make a contribution. Whatever he decides, we should ensure that he’s able to easily get a skilled-worker visa that will let him remain and keep on contributing in the United States for as long as he needs.


For now, Misha is praying for his family’s safety. He says he’s proud of the strength they’ve shown, and that he wants to do whatever he can to help them and his compatriots as the war continues. 


We should do what we can to help, too — both in Ukraine, and by supporting the Ukrainian immigrants who play such a vital role in our state’s innovation economy.

Misha’s story is a reminder on how the war in Ukraine is affecting so many families in the Triangle and in North Carolina.  


Let jus continue to pray for our Ukranian brothers and sisters and do what we can every day to help them rebuild their nation and to win this war, restoring freedom and democracy to Ukraine. 

IMPORTANT DATES 

Smart City Listening Tour Begins:  


My Wake County Smart City Tour began this Friday on Feb 24th in Garner.  It was an honor to present to Council and Staff at their Town Retreat. 


If you are a Wake County municipality, please email me at sr@steverao.com to book a visit where I share how you can be successful in a Smart City initiative, like Morrisville!  


Let’s make Wake the Smartest County in the State and North Carolina the Smartest State in the Nation! 

My Insights with Garner:  

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/172834475216548

March 16 Small Business Town Hall


with Congressman Wiley Nickel, and SBA Southeast Director Allen Thomas   

4:30- 6pm at the Frontier RTP!  


RSVP at https://forms.gle/uh37ue4xr6pzojaM6

BLACK HISTORY UNSUNG HERO, MAJOR CAPERS

Insights from Tru Pettigrew: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1251636855458952

Insights from Major Capers:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/900100914635603

On Saturday, as a part of the Town of Cary Future of Black History Month celebration, in partnership with Town of Cary, we Honor Major James Capers. The Major may very well be one of the most accomplished military heroes whose name you've never heard! A true Unsung American Hero.


A special thanks to Tru Pettigrew, Tamika Pettigrew for hosting and organizing this event, and also, the Major for his words of inspiration.   


If you do not know the story of Major James Capers, check out the link below and look him up for yourself. 


#BlackHistoryMonth #MajorJamesCapers #UnsungHero #BHM #BuildingBridges 

MORRISVILLE BLACK HISTORY MOMENT


In the days of segregated libraries, a bookmobile visited Shiloh Baptist Church once a month, allowing residents to borrow and return books. The bookmobile was founded by Mollie Huston Lee, the first African American librarian in Wake County.


#MorrisvilleBlackHistory


#MorrisvilleBlackHistoryMonth

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY AND BLACK RESISTANCE

My Black History Message: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/867198664508806

This month, we kicked off Black History Month, a time, when we can reflect on the remarkable contributions that Black Americans have made to our nation in all walks of life.   


This years’ Black History Month theme is” Black Resistance,”exploring how "African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms, especially the racial terrorism of lynching, racial progroms and police killings," since the nation's earliest days.  


I never would have imagined that in the year 2023, we would continue to see brutal beatings of black men like Tyre Nichols at the hands of our police officers.  I cannot think of a better time than now, then to support our black brothers and sisters during these difficult times, as our struggle for equality and resistance continues.  


During this month, I challenge each of us to reflect on the injustices African Americans have faced, and to be inspired by their resilience to persevere in the face of adversity. 

Please share with me any Black Leaders or individuals that we should recognize this month and I will highlight a few every week until the end of the month, both on Social Media and in my next few newsletters.   

BLACK SMALL BUSINESS VISIT OF THE WEEK:

Equality vs. Equity and Leveling the Playing Field:

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/06/27/rao-equality-v-equity-and-leveling-the-playing-field-for-minority-owned-businesses/


During Black History Month, I will be visiting Black owned businesses as a part of my Small Business Tour in 2023.  


--

STEMFORKIDS

https://www.facebook.com/MoniMsStem


I enjoyed my visit this week with Moni Singh, an Indian American woman and founder of STEM4KIDS in Morrisville, who has finished a children’s book, Black Stem Icons, highlighting the Black Stem Leaders, we should be teaching our kids about and also bringing awareness to these pioneers.  


Congratulations to her this book, which you can purchase at Amazon!  


Insights from Moni Singh:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/584574126653406

WHAT IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH? 


Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. 


Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.

THE STORY BEHIND BLACK HISTORY MONTH 


The story of Black History Month begins in 1915, half a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States.


That September, the Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), an organization dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by Black Americans and other peoples of African descent.


Known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the group sponsored a national Negro History week in 1926, choosing the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The event inspired schools and communities nationwide to organize local celebrations, establish history clubs and host performances and lectures.


In the decades that followed, mayors of cities across the country began issuing yearly proclamations recognizing "Negro History Week." By the late 1960s, thanks in part to the civil rights movement and a growing awareness of Black identity, "Negro History Week" had evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses.


President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history. 


Today, Black History Month is a time to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans across U.S. history and society—from activists and civil rights pioneers such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and Rosa Parks to leaders in industry, politics, science, culture and more. 

BLACK HISTORY STEM LEADERS 

Here are a few STEM Icons, African-American men and women, who made the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math so much better and powerful. 


  • The “Peanut Man”, Dr. George Carver who innovated agriculture and helped develop new usages of crops. He created more than 300 products from peanuts including paints, milk and stains. 
  • Researcher Mary Daly who was the 1st African American woman in the US to earn a PhD in chemistry. She found the connection between heart function and cholesterol in our food.
  • Jesse Blayton, an accountant and a radio entrepreneur, was the first African American to own and operate a radio station. His radio station WERD was housed just above the SCLC office and helped spread Martin Luther King’s dream. 


Read about their inspiring stories and many more STEM Icons in short rhymes in STEM Icons - Celebrating Black History. Available to buy or read on Kindle for free today at https://amzn.to/3k49gGn . 


Congratulations to my friend Moni Singh, founder of STEM for Kids, for writing this book. 

Dr. George Carver

Mary Daly

Jesse Blayton

Suicide Prevention Line to 988
On Saturday, July 16, the U.S. will transition the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to 988 – an easy-to-remember three-digit number for 24/7 crisis care.

The lifeline, which also links to the Veterans Crisis Line, follows a three-year joint effort by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to put crisis care more in reach for people in need.

Starting tomorrow, simply calling or texting 988 or chatting https://988Lifeline.org will connect you to compassionate care and support for mental health-related distress. #988Lifeline

Learn more at https://www.samhsa.gov/
Media Appearances

Indian Community thriving! 

https://www.cbs17.com/news/local-news/wake-county-news/new-tower-unveiled-at-cary-sri-venkateswara-temple-in-time-for-hindu-festival-of-lights/

PBS CAROLINAS:

STATE LINES AND BLACK ISSUES FORUM: 

STATE LINES: 


A roundtable discussion about political affairs and current events in North Carolina.


https://video.pbsnc.org/show/state-lines/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic

Black Issues Forum

Tune in on Friday at 7 pm and Sunday at 4 pm to PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum for our engaging discussions on trending topics!


https://www.pbsnc.org/watch/black-issues-forum/


Engaging Discussion on PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum on Affirmative Action, Election Security and other matters.

Link to the show:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BIOR-ih-Fg

Radio Nyra

Join us on Radio Nyra on Sunday at 4 pm for our interview with HSS on Darsana Exhibit.  99.9HD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM! 


Join us on Radio Nyra Sundays at 4pm for interesting interviews with local thought leaders


99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!


Great Interview on Radio Nyra with Hill Carrow on the 2029 FISU World University Games.  

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/596450559170578/?t=18


Radio Nyra Interview with NAACP Raleigh President Gerald Givens

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1498398340651739/?t=35

Enjoyed our Radio Nyra Interview with Bob Phillips from Radio Nyra.

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1917301445271106/?t=20

ROKU and POD TV

Great US Open Roku TV Interview with Andy Andrews!


https://youtu.be/-Uy7aX-M2AI?t=79

ROKU TV HINDU HERITAGE INTERVIEW:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIkw4q3VJMQ

Critical Conversations Podcast


Made by Debut on the Podcast Critical Conversations with Kenia Thompson.


https://www.facebook.com/kenia.c.thompson/videos/2135504183293818

88.1 FM Geet Bazaar


Wonderful interview with Secretary of State Elaine Marshall on 88.1 FM Geet Bazaar!  


https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/454623026620604

On the Porch
On the Porch with Randy Voller on WCHL 97.9 FM!

https://chapelboro.com/?s=on+the+porch



WPTF

September 20 - Steve Rao on WPTF Talking Direct Flight To India.  

http://steverao.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Steve-Rao-9-20-2022.mp3

WPTF Steve O'Bryan show
Get with the Program

Get with the Program with Gary Jones!


GARY JONES SHOW - GET WITH THE PROGRAM - 2/2023


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dL1UyROGNX4

Op Ed Alert:

Sen. Tillis’ immigration bill was a rare display of political courage | Opinion

Read my Op Ed in Raleigh News and Observer

https://www.newsobserver.com/opinion/article270762997.html

Check out my TechWire ARTICLE ON TECH LAYOFFS 

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/02/17/guest-opinion-tech-layoffs-across-triangle-are-impacting-high-skilled-immigrants/


Read my recent WRAL Tech Wire Post on NC’s Indian-American CEOs

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/01/16/guest-opinion-ncs-indian-american-ceos-are-only-the-tip-of-the-iceberg/


Read my recent WRAL Tech Wire Post on the latest DACA crisis!

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/11/08/guest-opinion-for-dreamers-the-latest-daca-crisis-is-deja-vu-all-over-again/


Read my recent WRAL Tech Wire Post on NC Vet Biz!  

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/10/13/guest-opinion-supporting-veteran-owned-companies-is-good-business-for-nc/


Read my WRAL Tech Wire Post on Hum Sub Diwali!

https://wraltechwire.com/2022/10/07/guest-column-festival-of-lights-non-profit-group-hum-sub-seek-to-share-india-culture-in-triangle/

Join Our Mailing List

This Week in Morrisville: February 27th - March 5th

Upcoming Meetings

Meetings


Feb. 28 – 6 p.m. – Town Council Meeting


March 1 – 6:30 p.m. – Environment & Stormwater Committee



March 2 – 6 p.m. – Town Council Work Session

Public Invited to Morrisville Carpenter Road Project Ribbon-Cutting on February 28


Join the Town of Morrisville as we celebrate the grand re-opening of Morrisville Carpenter Road after the completed expansion of the road from two lanes to four lanes and additional enhancements including new sidewalks and streetlights. A ribbon-cutting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at 11 a.m. at the corner of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Town Hall Drive. Parking will be available at the Indian Creek Trailhead (101 Town Hall Drive) and Town Hall (100 Town Hall Drive).

Have You Joined Engage Morrisville?


Engage Morrisville is a place for residents and businesses to get involved by sharing ideas and feedback with Town staff on various projects and topics affecting the Morrisville community. Current topics of conversation include the Town Center Project, What's Happening Around Town, and the Morrisville Smart Shuttle. Register and join the conversation today.

Spring Lifeguarding Classes Offered at MAFC in April


Spring lifeguarding classes will be offered at the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center, 1301 Morrisville Parkway, in April. Participants must be 15 years old on or before the final scheduled class, and they must pass physical tests. Training is provided to those who agree to work 200 hours. Dates for the classes have not been confirmed, but interested parties are asked to contact the aquatics manager, PJ Nettesheim, at pnettesheim@townofmorrisville.org.

Now Hiring: Join the MAFC Team


The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center has several openings for part-time fitness instructors. The center is looking for energetic and customer service-focused instructors to lead spin, early morning boot camp, and water aerobics classes. Click here for more information.

 

MAFC also has openings for part-time swim instructors, who will be responsible for preparing lesson plans and teaching swimming lessons. A Water Safety Instructor certification is preferred, but relevant instructing experience may substitute. Click here for more information.

 

Check out additional employment opportunities in the Town here.

Annual Water Disinfection Process to Take Place March 1-April 14


Each year, Cary joins neighboring communities to temporarily suspend the use of ammonia in the water treatment process. This practice follows the states recommendation that all water systems that use chloramines (a compound of chlorine and ammonia) for disinfection temporarily switch to chlorine only. During this process, water is also released from fire hydrants to help ensure that chlorine flows through the entire system. Residents who use water for kidney dialysis, fish aquariums, and other chlorine-sensitive uses should be aware that the water may contain chlorine or a mixture of chlorine and ammonia between March 1 and April 14. While the water may have a more distinct chlorine odor during this time, it remains safe to drink. For questions, call 311 or visit townofcary.com/waterchange.

Spring White Goods Collection to be March 9


The spring white goods collection will take place March 9. The white goods collection is offered every three months to pick up old appliances, including washing machines, dryers, freezers, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, stoves and ovens, and dehumidifiers. Registration is required to participate in the event, and registration must be received by March 6 at 5 p.m. Click here to register for the spring collection. Note that microwaves are not included in the white goods collection. Microwaves can be taken to the South Wake Landfill at 6130 Old Smithfield Road in Apex.

Residents Invited to Recycle Household Items at Green Day Event on March 18


The bi-annual Green Day event will take place on March 18, from 8 a.m. to noon, at Church Street Park, 5800 Cricket Pitch Way. Drive-thru stations will be set up to accept items for recycling that cannot be placed in residential recycling bins, for safely disposing of hazardous items, and for donating needed items to community groups. Stations will include textile recycling, laptop donation, paper shredding, medication take-back, e-recycling, batteries and CFLs, and collection of fats, oils, and greases. For more information, please visit the website.

Morrisville to Host Holi Celebration on March 18


Join us on Saturday, March 18, 2023, from Noon-3 p.m., at the Cedar Fork Community Center (CFCC), 1050B Town Hall Drive, as we celebrate Holi, the ancient Hindu festival marking the end of winter and welcoming the spring season. There will be music, dancing, artisan vendors, cultural performances, food, and fun. The festival is free, and will feature dancing, Holi powders, and food for purchase. The Town will provide Holi powder to attendees to get the event started, but attendees are strongly encouraged to bring their own Holi powder to keep the fun going. Please note that this will be a DRY Holi celebration, so participants are asked to leave water toys at home.

 

Limited parking will be available at CFCC. Shuttle transportation will run to and from Iron Mountain (826 Church Street) and Church Street Park (5800 Cricket Pitch Way). Check here for additional details.

Morrisville Creek Week Set for March 18-25


The Town of Morrisville will once again celebrate the N.C. Clean Water Education Partnership (NC CWEP)’s Regional Creek Week program, March 18-25, with fun, informative activities to educate our community about reducing stormwater pollution and the importance of keeping our waterways clear and clean. The theme for 2023 is "Water Connects Us."

 

Events for the week will include volunteer stream cleans and litter pickups, educational booths at community centers and the Western Wake Farmers' Market, and installation of markers on stormwater drains at various locations around Town. Check the website for more information and a complete schedule of events as they are confirmed.

Morrisville Smart Shuttle Service is Now Operating!
The Morrisville Smart Shuttle, the Town’s newest public transit service, allows riders to request a pick-up or drop-off from one of 15 nodes, or stops, located around the Town using the Smart Shuttle application on their smartphone.

Watch this short video on how to use the Morrisville Smart Shuttle App by clicking here!

The service runs seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Additional details on the Morrisville Smart Shuttle visit TownofMorrisville.org/SmartShuttle

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for? (Audience) Why should they care? (Benefit) What do I want them to do here? (Call-to-Action)


Create a great offer by adding words like "free" "personalized" "complimentary" or "customized." A sense of urgency often helps readers take an action, so think about inserting phrases like "for a limited time only" or "only 7 remaining"!

Public Comment Period Open for Wake Transit and Bus Plans through March 22


A draft of the 2023-24 Wake Transit Work Plan and the 2024-30 Wake Bus Plan Update are now available online. The public is invited to review these plans and to provide feedback that can inform changes to transit routes across the region. The plan includes changes to the GoTriangle 310 route that serves Morrisville, as well as GoCary routes that connect people to Cary and Morrisville. The public comment period will be open through March 22. Click here to view the plans and provide feedback. Representatives from GoTriangle will also be at the Western Wake Farmers’ Market on March 18, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, to provide information and answer questions.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training to be April 22-23


Sign up for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to learn basic disaster response skills to safely help yourself and those around you when disaster strikes and when professional responders aren’t available. The hybrid training class includes both online an in-person training. The in-person class will take place April 22 and 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Morrisville Fire Station No. 1, 200 Town Hall Dr. The virtual portion of the class is available now, and it must be completed by April 14 to attend the in-person sessions. Register here for the training.

Now Hiring: Join the Public Works Team


The Town of Morrisville Public Works Department has exciting career opportunities available now. Join one of only three North Carolina municipalities with an American Public Works Association (APWA) accredited Public Works Department. For more information, click on the following links:

 

Streets Maintenance Supervisor

 

Check out additional employment opportunities in the Town here.

Shop Local at the Western Wake Farmers' Market


The Western Wake Farmers' Market (WWFM) offers healthy and fresh food and goods from small and local businesses from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. every Saturday at the Healthy Food Hub, 280 Town Hall Drive.  


Visit http://wwfm.ag/ to see a complete list of local vendors and shop local.

Around the Region

NCTA 30th Anniversary


NC Tech Reception with Governor Cooper! 

Triangle Business Journal


Great insights from Bill Spruill, TBJ Small Businessperson of the Year. 

TCC Coalition


Wonderful insights at TCC Coalition from Mayors Gilbert, Weinbrecht, and Elaine O’Neil.  

Black History Month at HSNC


Inspired at Black History Month at HSNC with Special Guests, Floyd Mckissick, Dedreana Freeman, Shiloh Pastor David Jones, and NAACP President Gerald Givens.  

TAHTS Domestic Violence Symposium


Thanks for TAHTS for hosting Domestic Violence Symposium.  

Small Business Listening Tour: 

Send me an email at sr@steverao.com to book a Business Listening visit to your company.

I AM BRILLIANT

www.iambrilliant.org.


I enjoyed my visit with Michael Stewart Isaacs from iambrilliant at the Town of Cary Black History lecture. 


Co-Founders, Shemekka Ebony & Michael Stewart-Isaacs, show audiences how to reboot their inner light of talent to empower their Family, Community, and Company. Their mission is to connect the threads that weave through communities to provide people ACCESS, honor EXPERIENCES, and institute BETTER PRACTICES for sustainable partnerships.  


Keep up the Great Work!  


Insights from Michael Stewart Isaacs:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/581857717179770

NC Bagel and Deli


Visit with NC Bagel and Deli in Morrisville: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1249026162661531

GABOR FARMS


This week I enjoyed my small business visit with Clarence Dubois owner of Gabor Farms at our Morrisville Farmers Market.  He is also a Veteran owned business.  We thank him for his service to our nation.  


Visit with Gabor Farms:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1202039947092105

Kramden Institute


Small Business Visit with Kramden Institute:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/711669793754823

Mo’s Barbershop


I enjoyed my small business visit with Mo Davis, owner of Mo’s Barbershop in Morrisville, and we were so glad he is in Morrisville.  

Insights from Mo Davis:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/874939467059013

Insights on how Mo worked with SBA:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/722241869551650

Yeet Street Disc Golf


Visit with Yeet Street Disc Golf at Cedar Fork District Park! 

CW Dressings


Visit with CW Dressings at Farmers Market on New Years Eve!


Visit with CW Dressings

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/560396405942913

Swagat


My last small business drop in of the year at Swagat!: 


Small business drop in at Swagat

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/682338516771303

National and North Carolina News

MEDICAL MARIJUANA MAKES MOVE IN NC


Legislation is pending to regulate medical cannabis for patients in North Carolina. Senate Bill 711 is supported by both Republicans and Democrats. This bill would allow qualifying patients, with a physician's recommendation, to access a 30-day supply of medical cannabis at a time via licensed retail outlets.


According to statewide polling data, 82 percent of North Carolinians believe that “marijuana should be legalized [in the state] for medical purposes," — including 75% of GOP.

NC REPUBLICANS MOVE FORWARD WITH ANTI CRITICAL RACE THEORY BILL


A bill filed by Republicans on Thursday would prevent educators from promoting Critical Race Theory to students (CRT). House Bill 187 is like a bill filed by Republicans in 2021 that Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper vetoed.


CRT is an academic discipline that examines how racism has shaped the nation’s legal and social systems. Educators say CRT is not taught in America’s K-12 schools.


HB 187 has much of the same language as the previous bill, House Bill 324. It would, for example, prohibit teachers from promoting concepts that suggest America is racist or that people are inherently racist or sexist. It would also prohibit teaching that whites or anyone else are responsible for the sins of their forefathers.


If passed into law, HB 187 would also prevent educators from teaching that an “individual, solely by virtue of` his or her race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex.”


Here’s what Cooper had to say about HB 324 in 2021” “The legislature should be focused on supporting teachers, helping students recover lost learning, and investing in our public schools. Instead, this bill pushes calculated, conspiracy-laden politics into public education.”


A veto of HB 187 might prove difficult for Cooper this time around. Republicans have enough votes in the Senate to override Cooper. The GOP is one vote short in the House.

According to Education Week, since January 2021, 44 states have introduced bills or taken other steps to restrict teaching critical race theory or limit how teachers discuss racism and sexism.

Medicaid Expansion Passes NC House, On to Senate 


Legislation that would expand Medicaid coverage in North Carolina to hundreds of thousands of low-income adults through the 2010 Affordable Care Act advanced to the Senate with House approval Thursday.


A second day of strong bipartisan support for the legislation — the chamber gave initial approval to the measure on Wednesday — affirms that approving expansion during this year's legislative session is within reach.


North Carolina is among 11 states that haven't adopted Medicaid expansion.

"This is a part of history and we need to move this forward so that we can have serious discussions with the Senate," bill sponsor Rep. Donny Lambeth, a Forsyth County Republican, said before Thursday's 92-22 vote. Two-thirds of House Republicans voting joined all Democrats present in backing the bill.


In the Senate, Republicans also back expansion but want it coupled with a series of initiatives to build out the supply of healthcare services and providers. Those include scaling back "certificate of need" laws that require regulatory hurdles before medical equipment is used or new hospital beds filled. Speaker Tim Moore said after Thursday's vote that House members were willing to discuss certificate of need reforms with senators.


The two chambers passed competing expansion measures in 2022 but failed to reach a compromise.


This year's House measure would begin expansion next January, provided that the General Assembly approves a state budget law this year.


The federal government covers 90% of expansion costs. The state's 10% share of expenses for expansion enrollees would be paid through increased hospital assessments to the state. But the bill also envisions hospitals receiving billions of additional federal dollars to cover Medicaid patients.


The House bill tells state health officials to attempt to negotiate with federal health regulators to require some Medicaid enrollees to work in order to retain coverage.


Medicaid enrollment is 2.9 million in North Carolina. Expansion could cover as many as 600,000 people in the state, according to legislators and advocates and could add about $2 billion to the State Budget. Some of these people obtained and retained Medicaid services during the COVID-19 emergency because eligibility verifications were suspended. Those verifications will resume soon, resulting over time in 300,000 beneficiaries losing full health care coverage, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services.

NC Republicans Make it Easier to Overide Veto 


The permanent rules for operating the Republican-controlled North Carolina House for the next two years were approved by members Wednesday, despite objections from Democrats that they make it easier for GOP lawmakers to override vetoes by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.


Temporary rules approved last month omitted an element from previous years requiring chamber leaders to give at least two days’ notice before holding an override vote.

Wednesday's final rules package says an override vote may be taken on the same day a veto message is received from Cooper or from the Senate, or on “any other legislative day it is printed” on the chamber’s official agenda.


House Republicans hold a 71-49 seat margin, one vote short of a supermajority. That means they can override a veto if at least one Democrat joins them or if two Democrats are absent — even briefly — as long as GOP members are all present and united.

Seeking to allay fears of Democrats, House Rules Chairman Destin Hall, a Caldwell County Republican, said that while the GOP majority would aim to override every one of Cooper's vetoes, “it's not our job to do that through trickery and deceit.”


But House Minority Leader Robert Reives of Chatham County said the provision makes it harder for legislators — whose jobs are already viewed as part-time — to meet scheduling demands back at home and in Raleigh.


The chamber rejected a pair of amendments from Democratic Rep. Brandon Lofton of Mecklenburg County that would have placed additional restrictions upon veto override attempts.


Five Democrats joined all Republicans in voting 76-43 for the rules package.

NC SENATE OKAYS GUN BILL WITH PISTOL PERMIT REPEAL


North Carolina's Senate voted Thursday to scrap a century-old requirement that a sheriff formally signs off before a person can purchase a handgun as part of a broader firearms bill.


The Republican senators approved the legislation 29-19 in a party-line vote.


The firearms bill would also allow people with a concealed weapons permit — separate from the pistol purchase permit — to carry a gun while attending religious services at a private school or some charter schools. Permitted gun owners can already carry at standalone church buildings if the congregation allows it.


The measure, which also creates and funds a two-year education campaign on the safe storage of firearms, contains “common-sense laws to ensure that the rights of law-abiding citizens are not being infringed,” Sen. Danny Britt, a Robeson County Republican and chief sponsor, said in a press release.


Using parliamentary maneuvers, GOP senators blocked floor votes on several proposed Democratic amendments to tighten gun laws, such as universal background checks for all weapon sales and “red-flag” orders. Senate Democrats, who would support the safe storage campaign language if voted on in separate legislation, said Thursday the permit repeal would lead to more gun injuries and deaths at a time of increased mass shootings.


The bill “is the antithesis of common-sense gun reform,” Sen. Natasha Marcus, a Mecklenburg County Democrat, during floor debate. “It’s a relinquishment of our job to protect North Carolinians from violence.”


In 2021, separate bills containing the pistol permit repeal and gun access within more houses of worship passed the General Assembly but were vetoed by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. He said at the time that educators and children need protections from gun violence and the permit system reduces gun-related deaths.


But Republicans made enough seat gains during the November elections so that the GOP holds a veto-proof majority in the Senate and are within one seat of similar control in the House.


The House advanced these proposals this week in their own competing measures. The bill addressing religious meeting places passed the full House chamber on Wednesday with the support of six Democrats — signaling that any veto override of a measure on that specific topic this year could be successful. GOP leaders in both chambers will have to hash out which of the gun bills they want to put on Cooper's desk.

LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES 

Russia invaded Ukraine one year ago today.

• The cost: Thousands of lives have been lost; millions fled their homes; Ukraine’s economy and infrastructure have suffered; shipment delays intensified a food crisis; and more.

• Where the conflict stands: The front line, 600 miles long in eastern Ukraine, has stayed mostly the same since mid-November. We mapped key areas here.

• What happens now? Russia has 320,000 troops in Ukraine, although experts say its capabilities are declining. Neither side can make gains without a major advantage in weaponry or force size.


A major storm encased the northern U.S. in snow and ice yesterday.

• The details: Wintry conditions stretched from coast to coast — as shown by these images from space. Some 1,600 flights were canceled and almost a million customers in the Midwest lost power.

• What’s next? The storm will move toward Southern California, which could experience historic levels of snowfall in the coming days.


A preliminary report offered some clues about the Ohio train derailment.

• Yesterday’s findings: The crew had gotten an alert about an issue and was trying to slow the train down just before it went off the tracks near the Pennsylvania border.

• What else to know: The derailment, which sent dangerous chemicals into the air and water, potentially killed more than 43,000 aquatic animals, officials said yesterday.


A high-profile former lawyer denied killing his wife and son.

• How we got here: Alex Murdaugh, a disbarred attorney in South Carolina, is accused of murdering them in June 2021. The case has received intense media coverage.

• What’s new? Murdaugh took the stand yesterday — a risky move, according to experts. He admitted to lying to police and stealing from clients. There will be more cross-examination today.


Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 16 more years in prison yesterday.

• Why? The film producer was found guilty of rape in December in Los Angeles. Allegations against him in 2017 helped spark the #MeToo movement.

• What this means: Those years will be added on to what he’s already serving, all but ensuring the 70-year-old will spend the rest of his life in prison.

• In related news: R&B singer R. Kelly was sentenced yesterday for child sex abuse, but he largely avoided extra prison time.


Inflammation in the body could explain depression in the brain.

• How? Inflammatory agents in the blood can break down the barrier between the body and the brain, which can trigger or exacerbate depression, according to new research.

• Why it matters: The findings could revolutionize medical care for depression, which doesn’t always respond to conventional drug treatments.


Scientists have discovered a new layer of our planet.

• What to know: There’s a 400-mile-thick solid metallic ball at the center of Earth’s inner core, according to a new study.

• Why it’s exciting: The discovery could help us understand more about how Earth’s magnetic field formed — and, consequently, how life can survive on this planet and others.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Black Issues Forum

FEB 24th Join us on PBS CAROLINAS BLACK ISSUES FORUM at 7 pm and on Feb 26th at 4 pm!  


Tune in on Friday at 7 pm and Sunday at 4 pm to PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum for our engaging discussions on trending topics!


Please watch for the Black Issues Forum on UNC-TV!  Fridays at 7 pm and Sundays at 4 pm!


Engaging Discussion on PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum on Affirmative Action, Election Security and other matters.


Link to the Show:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BIOR-ih-Fg

PBS NC

  • Fridays at 7 p.m. (premiere)
  • Sundays at 4 p.m.
  • Thursdays at 1:30 a.m.

NC Channel

  • Fridays at 8:30 p.m.
  • Saturdays at 1:30 a.m.
  • Sundays at 6 p.m.
  • Mondays at 12 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.

March 4th Evening with Dicky Walia and the Legal Forum at HSNC!  6 pm. 

MARCH 18th Green Day at CHURCH STREET PARK AT 8 am!

March 18th Town of Morrisville Holi Noon to 3 pm!  

Sunday at 4 pm for our Radio Nyra Interview

Join me every Sunday at 4pm for a new show. 99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!

Radio / TV
Radio NYRA

Join me Sunday 4 PM on Radio NYRA for another update on local issues.



99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!  Listen at www.radionyrausa.com!


99.9FM HD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM! 

ROKU and POD TV
Join us every Friday on World Edition at 10 am for the Great America Project Panel where we discuss how we rebuild Americas' image with leaders from around the country and world.

OFFICIAL International Broadcast Media
Public Open Dialogue TV is a worldwide multilingual, multi-demographic network focused on inspiring, educating and entertaining the global community. We provide unique programming in areas not covered by traditional media, and provide a platform for the audience to engage with those shows. Formerly IBMTV.
Council Member Rao holds office hours on Friday from 12:00-1:00 PM by appointment only at 100 Town Hall Drive in Morrisville. 

For more information or to schedule a time to speak with Council Member Rao, please email SRao@TownofMorrisville.org and copy Town Clerk Eric Smith, esmith@townofmorrisville.org, 463-6150.
Council Member Steve Rao
Town of Morrisville
Dedicated to transforming Morrisville into an ideal place to work and raise a family!
Learn more at: SteveRao.com
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