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LABOR DAY AND FALL EDITION: |
From the Council Office of Steve Rao
September 07, 2024
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Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes. | |
My Labor Day Message
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/2474908646031727
Remember to register to Vote! https://www.ncsbe.gov/registering
A very busy weekend and week had me delayed ins sending out this newsleter, But I hope all of you had a wonderful labor day with your friends and family, and now we look forward to the fall and the race to the finish line in the elections, and of course, the kick off of the NFL Season!
Absentee Ballot Deadline is Tues. Oct 5th at 5 pm.
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Tune in at 9 pm for the Live Presidential Debate on ABC!
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A very busy Labor Day weekend and this week had me delayed in sending out this newsletter, But I hope all of you had a wonderful labor day with your friends and family, and now we look forward to the fall and the race to the finish line in the elections, and of course, the kick off of the NFL Season!
Since September is National Preparadeness month, I will be sharing insights on this month in next week's 9/11 edition along with National Suicide Prevention Month.
We will never forget 9/11 and my Remembering 9/11 edition will be going out next Friday.
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Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. The festival typically lasts for 10 days, starting on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada, which usually falls in August or September.
I will be sharing more information and and a message on this festival next week but the Festival begins today at the HSNC at 5:30 pm!
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DUKE ENERGY TRANSPORTATION ALERT | |
Over the next few weeks, Duke Energy will be initiating two projects within Morrisville that will impact noise, traffic and sidewalk passage. These projects are to install distribution power lines from nearby substations to areas of development within the community to strengthen the electric grid and increase capacity.
Beginning Sept. 9, the Duke Energy project team will be installing underground equipment along McCrimmon Pkwy. (from Town Hall Dr. to Aviation Blvd.). For safety, sidewalk and lane closures are anticipated. Construction activity will take place Monday through Friday, during daylight hours.
For more information, and location of lane closures, visit https://bit.ly/4egX0ch
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IMPORTANT MORRISVILLE UPDATES | |
MORRISVILLE POSTER CONCERT
Calling all student artists! The Town of Morrisville Environment & Stormwater Committee's 19th Annual Student Art Poster Contest is now open.
🎨 Contest details:
• Theme: Water You Know About H20?
• Open to all Morrisville youth in grades K-5
• Submission deadline: Friday, October 18
• Prizes include your poster being turned into a banner on Town Hall Drive (grand prize) and certificate presentation at a Morrisville Town Council meeting.
Learn more at morrisvillenc.gov/postercontest
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MINOR LEAGUE CRICKET RETURNS THIS WEEKEND!
Cricket Insights from Mark Stohlman:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1678170452983496
The Town of Morrisville welcomes Minor League Cricket to Church Street Park starting Friday, Sept. 6. Church Street Park will be closing three hours prior to each match start and remain closed throughout the match. Matches are free and open to the public.
Learn more at minorleaguecricket.com.
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MORRIDEAS! LETS INNOVATE:
Do you love to code or have innovative ideas? Imagine a world where apps aren't just functional but also incredibly fun and engaging. This is your chance to make that vision a reality. Join us for MorrIdeas, a Hackathon aimed at creating a gamification system for the Town’s mobile app, with prizes totaling $4,500! Entries are due by Friday, Sept. 6. View the problem, submission details, FAQs and more at morrideas.hackerearth.com.
Questions? Email Billy Whitehead at bwhitehead@morrisvillenc.gov
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APPLY TO MORRISVILLE 101
Registration for Morrisville 101 is now open! Morrisville 101 is an annual community academy for residents interested in local government.
This is a free program for residents ages 16 and older. The program will begin Oct. 23 and will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. once a week for five weeks. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit morrisvillenc.gov/msv101
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APPLY TO ADVISORY COMMITTEES
Applications are now open to serve on a Town advisory committee! We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to join a committee and lend their voices to important local issues. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or a newcomer with fresh perspectives, we want to hear from YOU.
• Environment and Stormwater Committee
• Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee
• Planning and Zoning Board
• Senior Advisory Committee
• Smart City Steering Committee
👉 To apply visit https://morrisville.granicus.com/boards/forms/350/apply.
While we accept applications for advisory committees on a rolling basis throughout the year, this period is focused on these committees.
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MORRISVILLE CHAMBER PRESIDENT SEARCH OPEN | |
The President of the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce (MCOC) is a pivotal role that directs the Chamber’s strategic planning, oversees its program of work, and ensures effective community leadership and operations. This individual will be instrumental in delivering on our mission to advocate for and promote the growth and vitality of the Morrisville community. As the face of our organization, the President will embody and model our core values of Connection, Innovation, Inclusion, Leadership, and Integrity.
This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the community and elevate Morrisville’s reputation as the best place to start, conduct, and grow a business. If you are passionate about fostering a thriving business environment and have a strong vision for the future of our community, we invite you to consider this exceptional leadership role.
Apply by submitting your resume and any supporting information to mcocsearch@gmail.com. Please direct questions to Sean Kerns, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, at Sean.Kerns@bcbsnc.com or by text / phone at 919-730-9570.
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I was very had to hear the news that on August 24, 2024, at the age of 48, Bejoy Nair (Knightdale, North Carolina) passed away. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
In the echoes of fond remembrance, may a sense of peace be found, knowing that the memories held dear will continue to shape and inspire his loved ones, keeping Bejoy's spirit alive in the hearts and actions of family and friends alike. While his presence may be gone, his impact lives on in the kindness shown to others and the joy found in the ordinary moments of life.
A funeral service was held on Wednesday, August 28th 2024 at 11:00 AM at the L. Harold Poole Funeral Service Chapel (944 Old Knight Rd, Knightdale, NC 27545).
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HOMETOWN HEROES: Swift Water Rescue Team | |
Six members of the Morrisville Fire Department's swift water rescue team, along with members of the Apex Fire Department, were activated and deployed to various parts of North Carolina to help other communities impacted by Tropical Storm Debby.
The team interacted with multiple public safety agencies from across North Carolina and the North Carolina National Guard. It was a very successful deployment, with our members safe at home, resting and drying out. We are proud of their commitment to keeping all residents safe, regardless of where the call for service might be located.
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As we celebrate Labor Day, it's important to reflect on the significance of this holiday and the values it represents. Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September, honors the contributions and achievements of American workers. It is a day to recognize the dedication, hard work, and resilience that have built and continue to sustain our nation.
The origins of Labor Day date back to the late 19th century, during a time when the labor movement was gaining momentum in the United States. Workers were fighting for fair wages, reasonable hours, and safer working conditions. Labor Day was established to honor these efforts and to acknowledge the vital role that workers play in the economic and social fabric of our country.
Today, Labor Day is more than just a day off; it is a reminder of the progress we’ve made in workers' rights and a call to continue striving for fairness and justice in the workplace. It’s a time to celebrate the spirit of collaboration between employers and employees, recognizing that when we work together, we can achieve great things.
As we enjoy this holiday with family and friends, let us also take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of those who have come before us and those who continue to contribute to our society every day. Labor Day is a tribute to the strength, ingenuity, and perseverance of the American workforce.
Happy Labor Day!
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AI AND THE CHANGING FACE OF LABOR | |
Enjoy Content Evolution Podcast: https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/n9qkkzdr-pbxbMVmLuK3h7rH3WazJRUQrrMRQhGcPF5Gs2y2d7bcQK5Zt3CPnhsV.i7iXF1Fn3yVDhwXs
As we celebrate Labor Day, it's important to reflect on not just the achievements of the past, but also the challenges and opportunities of the future. The world of work is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, automation, and digital technologies.
AI is no longer a concept of the future; it's a reality that's reshaping industries across the globe. From manufacturing to healthcare, finance to education, AI is revolutionizing how tasks are performed, increasing efficiency, and opening up new possibilities for innovation. But with these advancements come significant changes in the labor market.
Jobs that once required manual effort are now being performed by machines, and tasks that demanded human cognition are increasingly being handled by algorithms. This shift is creating new roles that require advanced technical skills, while also displacing traditional jobs that have been the backbone of our economy for decades.
It's crucial that we, as a society, proactively address these changes. We must ensure that workers are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in this new economy. This means investing in education and training programs that prepare our workforce for the demands of the digital age. It also means fostering a culture of lifelong learning, where individuals continuously adapt and evolve alongside technological advancements.
Moreover, we must advocate for policies that protect workers' rights in this rapidly changing landscape. As automation and AI become more prevalent, issues such as job displacement, income inequality, and workers' mental health must be at the forefront of our discussions. It's imperative that we strike a balance between embracing innovation and safeguarding the well-being of our workforce.
Labor Day has always been a time to honor the contributions of workers, and today, we must also recognize the new realities of labor in the 21st century. As we navigate this era of transformation, let's commit to building a future where technology enhances our lives and livelihoods, and where every worker has the opportunity to succeed in an everchanging economy.
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I am excited to announce a new mobile platform, VoteVocal that I am on, VoteVocal. By logging into the mobile App, you can:
- Reach me directly over phone or via email
- Access my social media pages - X, Facebook & Instagram
- Download my newsletter(s)
- File grievances that would reach me directly.
- Learn about my priorities for the community and the current status of major issues facing the Town and County.
I am at your service and through the VoteVocal platform we communicate much better and I intend to enhance by digital communication strategy and reach with the residents of Morrisville and all of Wake County.
Please download the iOS mobile app by going to VoteVocal.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vote-vocal/id6499540241
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BLACK ISSUES FORUM on Friday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 4 pm. www.pbsnc.org
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US Open WPTF Radio Wake County Round Up on Friday with Special guest, former ATP Mens Player, Andy Andrews! 92.9 FM and 680 AM!
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Taylor Fritz to play Sinner in US Open Mens Final First American to head to finals in 22 years! (Pete Sampras and Agassi in 2002 final)
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Inspired by the Paralympics in Paris! Ends Saturday. I will be sharing my insights next week on the Paralympics! www.paralympics.com | |
NFL kicks off this weekend! | |
Use Here Comes the Bus: https://www.wcpss.net/herecomesthebus
Wake County Schools Start today! Summer is officially over and Fall begins!
It has been a very busy few weeks, and this will be the last newsletter of the Summer as we head into the fall, send our kids back to school, and kick off Football Season! In my next newsletter, we will be celebrating the meaning of Labor Day and I will be sharing my insights on Ukrainian Independence and wish every Ukranian in North Carolina and the nation a Happy Ukranian Independence Day, which we celebrated on Saturday!
Finally, I wish Sonia all the best as she heads off to Nairobi, Kenya for her fellowship with the Associated Press and to Rayan, who begins Biomedical Enginnering at NC State and his Sophomore year!
Good Luck to everyone in school!
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BREAKING NEWS AND IMPORTANT UPDATES | |
Gandhi Statue will Move to Morrisville! (See Gandhi Section)
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Vice President Harris Accepts Democratic Nomination for President of the United States.
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BACK TO SCHOOL IN WAKE COUNTY | |
Good Luck to all the kids for another year in School! It will be a another great year!
In addition, in my next newsletter, we will also be discussing the relocation of Parkside Middle School to Paramount Parkway, and Morrisville High School to the location of Parkside Middle. I know there are frustrated families in Morrisville and Cary and please send me your ideas and continue to attend public meetings.
A special thanks to Wake County Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor for hosting a Community Input Meeting at Alston Ridge Middle School last week.
The district has launched a ThoughtExchange thread, inviting community members to contribute their questions and comments.
Visit and share your ideas at https://my.thoughtexchange.com/scroll/443352163/welcome
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Over the past few days, I have had a number of interviews with the Press about the VP Harris nominaton and other issues! Enjoy! | |
WPTF Radio Wake County Round Up on Friday with Special guest Gov Tech, Zack Thorn on the NC Digital Summit and guests to talk about Indian Independence Day events next week in Morrisville! | |
Sept 14 Morrisville Police Department Torch Run at 8 am at Morrisville Community Park!
Register at https://bit.ly/3WTY2Uz
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Sept 15 Cary Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting! | |
Sept 21 Town of Morrisville International Festival! 2pm to 6pm at Town Hall Drive. | |
Sept 22 Senior Expo HSNC! See you soon!
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MY REFLECTIONS ON VP HARRIS | |
As an Indian-American and a public servant deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, I am profoundly inspired by the election of Kamala Harris as President of the United States. Her historic achievement is not only a testament to her dedication and leadership but also a monumental step forward for representation in our nation's highest office.
President Harris embodies the rich tapestry of America’s multicultural heritage. As the first woman, the first African-American, and the first South Asian-American to hold the presidency, she breaks through long-standing barriers and paves the way for future generations of diverse leaders. Her victory sends a powerful message to young girls and boys across the country and around the world—that no dream is too big, and no barrier insurmountable when one is equipped with determination, integrity, and a commitment to service.
This election marks a significant moment for communities that have historically been marginalized and underrepresented in our political system. It reinforces the idea that our government can and should reflect the diversity and complexity of the people it serves. President Harris's leadership promises to bring fresh perspectives and inclusive policies that address the needs and aspirations of all Americans, bridging divides and fostering unity.
Moreover, her ascent to the presidency highlights the enduring strength of our democracy, demonstrating that it continues to evolve and expand to include voices from all walks of life. It is a reaffirmation that in America, the son or daughter of immigrants can rise to the nation's highest office, contributing profoundly to the shaping of our collective future.
I wish the Harris and Emhoff families all the best during the Campaign and am looking forward to saying the words, Madame President.
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GANDHI STATUE HAS A NEW MORRISVILLE HOME | |
My Message on Gandhi Statue:
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/wake-county/article291042270.html
Over the past few years, I had brought the idea to my colleagues on the Council, to approach Marbles Museum of moving the Gandhi Statue to Morrisvill, in an effort to give the statue a more prominent location and to better reflect the growing Indian American community in Morrisville.
Last week, The Gandhi statue was relocated to Morrisville from its current location at Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh at the Church Street Park Southern Lot Expansion. This decision has been made to The move is seen as a way to honor Gandhi's legacy and to make the statue more accessible to the community that deeply values his contributions.
As a precursor to accepting the Gandhi statue, our council first passed a public art policy in May that lays out criteria for accepting or rejecting public art proposals.
Stay tuned for details on the Gandhi Celebration event which will be held sometime in early October. A special thanks to staff, Council, and Marbles for making this move of the statue possible!
Read more at: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/wake-county/article291042270.html#storylink=cpy
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Registration for Morrisville 101 is now open! Morrisville 101 is an annual community academy for residents interested in local government.
This is a free program for residents ages 16 and older. The program will begin Oct. 23 and will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. once a week for five weeks. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit morrisvillenc.gov/msv101
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During the next week, I plan to visit some Sports Venues and Facilities in Wake County to celebrate the Olympic Spirit! If you want me to drop in, please send me a note!
Enjoy the Olympics! I cannot think of a better time than now to use sports as bridge to celebrate our unity in diversity!
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MEET TIM WALZ, OUR NEXT VP! | |
Tim Walz is an American politician serving as the 41st governor of Minnesota, a position he has held since January 2019. He is a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), which is affiliated with the national Democratic Party. Before becoming governor, Walz served as a U.S. Representative for Minnesota's 1st congressional district from 2007 to 2019.
Walz's political career is marked by his focus on education, veterans' affairs, and agriculture. Before entering politics, he was a high school teacher and football coach, as well as a member of the Army National Guard, where he served for 24 years, retiring with the rank of command sergeant major.
As governor, Walz has prioritized issues such as healthcare, education, climate change, and economic development. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his response to civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis have been significant aspects of his governorship.
We wish him well at the Democratic Convention and on the campaign trail! Congratulations Governor!
I am pictured here wigh Governor Walz at the Democratic Governors Winter Meeting in Washington DC.
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VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS | |
Kamala Harris is the 49th Vice President of the United States, serving since January 20, 2021. She is the first woman, the first African American, and the first Asian American to hold the office of Vice President. Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California. Before becoming Vice President, she served as a U.S. Senator from California from 2017 to 2021. Prior to that, she was the Attorney General of California from 2011 to 2017. Harris is a member of the Democratic Party and has been a significant figure in American politics, known for her work on criminal justice reform, immigration, and civil rights.
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VACATION WATCH: DYK? The Morrisville Police Department can provide a drive by vacation check to your property this summer while you are out of town. Get all the info and register today at https://bit.ly/4erbTJO
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DOWNLOAD THE MORRISVILLE APP | |
Have you downloaded the Morrisville Central mobile app?
Learn about free community events, view an interactive map of Town facilities and parks to learn about court and field status, and get the latest information about the Town straight from the source.
Download via Apple Store: https://apple.co/3pKCNrg
Download via Google Play: https://bit.ly/3IfPctA
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Welcoming Gov. Walz to Raleigh
I was honored to welcome and catch up with Governor Tim Walz to Raleigh last week. I met him last February at the DGA Winter Summit and got to know him during a dinner meeting when I sat with him. He reminds me of the small town American who were my neighbors when I grew up in Charleston, WV. His positive message and genuine personality will make him a wonderful Vice President! Keep up the Great work!
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Sec. Julie Su visits NC!
On Monday, Yesterday, I was honored to welcome United States Secretary of Labor Julie Shu to Charlotte for a Roundtable and to inspire the Harris campaign. It was wonderful to have lunch with her at Exotica Restaurant and I do look forward to bringing her on Radio in the next few weeks!
I was so impressed with her energy, and passion for the future of Labor in our nation. What a great women, and what a leader, and such a successful Asian American Cabinet Member! Tralblazer!
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AAPI Roundtable with Congressman Nickel
I was honored to participate in a roundtable hosted by Congressman Wiley Nickel at the Cary Chamber to share with him ideas on the challenges and resources needed to support the growth of small businesses. It was a great roundtable with community leaders, Cary Council Member Sarika Bansal and Rep. Maria Cervania.
Thanks to Congressman Nickel for hosting this special event.
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CONGRESSMAN TED LIU VISITS TRIANGLE
It was great to have Congressman Lu in Cary on Wed for the Moon Festival celebration hosted by Rep. Ya Liu, along with a Harris AAPI event at Lulu Bang Bang. He is the rising star in our Congress and the Senior Asian American in our Congress and a Veteran in the US Airforce. His story is inspiring, and also, I am very proud of his work and thoughts on the future of AI. I will be working to bring him on WPTF Radio in the near future.
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Live Burn in Morrisville!
Live Burn in Action:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/819820023686745
On Sunday, I attended the Live Burn held at 419 Airport Boulevard. These live burns are actual simulations of Fire events, where our Firefighters train for a fire response. It is amazing to see how quickly the fires can burn down a house, and quickly our firefighters respond. It was also very hot but amazing to watch.
Preparadness Month Celebration
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NC Chamber Workforce Summit
Last week, I attended the NC Chamber Workforce Summit, where I was able to hear from leaders and policy makers on the challenges and opportunites in developing the workforce of the future. Much focus was on AI, how it can be used in our K-12 education system and also the importance of upskiling the workforce for the jobs of the new economy. Highlights for me were hearing from our NC Community College President, Jeffrey Cox, and the closing panel with State Superintendent Cathy Truitt and State Superintendent Candidate Mo Green.
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Global Meditation Summit
I was honored to attend and speak at the Global Meditation Summit last weekend, where attendees from all over the United States gathered at the Hindu Society of NC. It was an amazing conference and I really enjoyed being there with Mayor Cawley, Mayor Pro Tem Garimella and all of the community leaders, including Sharma Aunty!
I also enjoyed meeting the Indian Embassy Represntative, Rajeev Ahuja, who was visiting the Indian Consular Camp at BAPS.
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African American Cultural Festival a Blast!
I had a great time at the African American Heritage Festival over the weekend, and saw so many familiar faces, including my old friend, Chuck Johnson, from Choice FM. It was packed with great music, food, and the Harris campaign was there in full force! A great time!
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Natyashatra Dance Academy Opens in Apex!
I was honored to be the chief guest at the Natyashatra Dance Academy in Apex, started by the Sreejessh family. I look forward to many future dance performances at this studio! Congratulaitons and thanks to the many guests who graced the occasion!
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First FLight Venture CEO Krista Covey Travels to India
This trip was part of a broader initiative to deepen the collaboration between First Flight Venture Center and RAY Consulting, the host of the IIAB conference, as we work together to implement the First Flight WingSpan program in Q1 of 2025 in RTP.
The primary purpose of this trip was to showcase the partnership between First Flight Venture Center and RAY Consulting to Indian officials and the broader Indian market. The WingSpan program aims to support Indian agriculture companies looking to expand into the U.S. market by providing them with resources, guidance, and a landing place (with the physical business amenities) at First Flight Venture Center. This initiative not only reinforces the ties between our regions but also emphasizes our commitment to fostering innovation in agri-business on a global scale.
A special highlight was Krista being honored by Sri Thummala Nageswara Rao, who announced the launch of the First Flight Venture Center‘s India Wingspan program, in collaboration with RAY consulting, at the conference. This exciting initiative will bring 10 Indian agriculture companies looking to expand into the U.S. to First Flight Venture Center, further strengthening the bridge between our regions.
During her time at the IIAB Expo, Krista had the chance to engage with industry leaders, government officials, and innovative startups, gaining a deeper understanding of the agriculture industry and the innovation landscape in India. India’s agri-business sector is vibrant and rapidly evolving, with a strong focus on leveraging technology to enhance productivity, sustainability, and food security.
Beyond highlighting our collaboration, this trip was also a valuable opportunity to forge new connections and explore potential business opportunities for the future. By engaging with key stakeholders and learning about the unique challenges and opportunities within India’s agri-business sector, we are better positioned to support Indian companies as they look to expand their footprint in North Carolina and the wider U.S. market.
Krista is excited about the possibilities for First Flight Venture Center and partners in India! This trip reinforced the importance of global collaboration in driving innovation and underscored the vast potential for impactful business partnerships between our regions.
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PREPARADENSS MONTH PROCLAMATION
September is National Preparedness Month, created to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time in homes, businesses, and communities.
DYK? Registration is now open for Morrisville residents to complete the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. Learn more and register at bit.ly/MSVCERT2024
📷 Members of the Morrisville CERT team accepted the official proclamation from Council Member Johnson at the August 27 meeting.
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Aug 23 Council Meeting Highlights
• Presentations: National Preparedness Month Proclamation, Fire Department Tropical Storm Debby Deployment Recognition, Planning Department Presentation
• Public Hearings: Continued Public Hearing on Resolution Approving Town Center Development Agreement, Continued Public Hearing on Proposed Major Amendment to the Park West Village Mixed-Use Planned Development District
• No Update: Proposed Amendment to the Zoning Map for HSNC (REZ-23-0014)
Read the full details at https://bit.ly/3M57teL
#LiveConnectedLiveWell
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THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE SEPT 9-SEPT 13 | |
Meetings
September 10 – 6:00 p.m. Town Council Meeting
September 12 – 6:00 p.m. Senior Advisory Committee
September 12 – 6:30 p.m. CANCELED Planning & Zoning Board
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Morrisville 101 Applications Open
Applications for the Town's annual community academy, Morrisville 101, are currently open. The free class is for residents ages 16 and up and meets for five sessions on Wednesday evenings from 6-8:30 p.m. starting October 23.
Morrisville 101 is an excellent way to learn the inner workings of the Town, chat with police and firefighters, and gain an understanding of the many departments that work together to make Morrisville so unique.
Click here to register.
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Special Olympics Torch Run September 14
The Morrisville Police Department will host its second annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics of North Carolina on Saturday, Sept. 14. The cost to participate is $30 for motorcycle riders and $10 for passengers. Proceeds will support the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which supports the Special Olympics and nearly 40,000 athletes across the state.
The charity run will begin and end at Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway. Onsite registration begins at 8 a.m., or participants can register online before the event. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, along with raffles, refreshments, and a commemorative patch for all participants.
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Diwali Vendor Applications Open
Applications are now open for artisans to participate in the Morrisville Diwali celebration on Oct. 19, from 6-9 p.m., at Cedar Fork District Park (228 Aviation Parkway).
Interested vendors can find the application here. The application will close on Sept. 6.
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Blueprint for Safety - Regional Transportation Safety Action Plan
The Capitol Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) is developing a comprehensive regional multimodal safety action plan in partnership with NCDOT, referred to as the Blueprint for Safety. The Blueprint for Safety will identify strategies and actions to improve roadway transportation safety in the CAMPO region. After identifying areas to improve upon, safety enhancements and countermeasures can be recommended and implemented. The Plan will also identify areas that are high risk for serious injury or fatal crashes, taking a more proactive approach in addition to reviewing crash history.
To learn more and provide feedback, please visit the project website.
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Current Surveying Projects
The Town of Morrisville would like to alert residents of three survey projects happening now through September:
Sorrell Grove Church Road sidewalk project
Slater Road/Sorrell Grove Church Road intersection improvements project
Church Street sidewalk project
There will be no sidewalk or street closures for these surveys. Be mindful of crews working in public right of ways in front of properties as part of this work. For questions, contact Kitty Thomas, capital projects manager, at (919) 463-6917.
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2035 Wake Transit Plan Update Survey
The 2035 Wake Transit Plan Update is currently underway. The goal of this update is to outline transit investments from 2026 through 2035. Transit investments will be funded through the existing dedicated taxes and fees for transit in Wake County.
To share your feedback on future transit projects in Wake County, please complete this survey. For more information on the 2035 Wake Transit Plan Update, please visit the project website.
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Fall and Winter Program Registration Opening
Morrisville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources fall and winter program registration opens next Friday, July 26, for Morrisville residents. Non-resident registration opens August 5.
Don't miss out on Morrisville's exciting fall/winter programs! Activities are available for all ages, from preschoolers to seniors. Recreational programs include:
Before and After School | Age K-5
Family and Child Yoga Classes | Age 5-14
Pickleball Lessons for Beginners and Intermediate Levels | Age 18+
Senior Field Trips and Social Activities | Age 55+
Shotokan Karate for Youth and Teens/Adults | Age 7+
Winter Basketball Leagues | Age 5-12
Register for programs online by clicking here.
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MAFC Fall Pool Schedule Starts Aug. 26
The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC) will begin its fall pool schedule on Monday, Aug. 26. The pool will close from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for cleaning. Find the fall MAFC pool schedule here.
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International Festival Vendor Applications Open
Applications are now open for artisans to participate in the Morrisville International Festival on September 21, 2024. The festival, which runs from 2-7 p.m. along Town Hall Drive, celebrates the town's diversity with food, music and vendors. Interested artisan vendors can find an application here.
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Free Girls Softball To Go Clinics
Join Morrisville Athletics for FREE girls softball to go clinics on Saturday, Aug. 24, Saturday, Sept. 21, and Saturday, Oct. 12. Players will work on skill development and game play experience during the clinics. Learn more and register here.
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Fall CERT Training Open for Registration
The Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department is now accepting registrations for the Hybrid Morrisville CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) Basic Training Class for fall 2024.
On-line training opens Aug. 26, and needs to be completed by Oct. 20, to participate in the class. The skills weekend is Oct. 26-27, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Participants must attend both days to receive credit).
To register click here. Registration closes Tuesday, Oct. 2. For questions contact Deputy Fire Marshal Mike Chorney at (919) 463-6122 or email mchorney@morrisvillenc.gov.
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Fall White Goods Collection September 5
The Morrisville Public Works staff provides a white goods collection every three months for the collection of bulky appliances. The fall white goods collection will be September 5.
Items that will be collected include:
Washing machines
Dryers
Freezers
Refrigerators
Dishwashers
Water heaters
Stoves and ovens
Dehumidifiers
Registration is required to participate. Register by Monday, Sept. 2, at 5 p.m. using this form.
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Special Olympics Torch Run September 14
The Morrisville Police Department will host its second annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics of North Carolina on Saturday, Sept. 14. The cost to participate is $30 for motorcycle riders and $10 for passengers, and proceeds will support the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which supports the Special Olympics and nearly 40,000 athletes across the state
The charity run will begin and end at Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway. Onsite registration begins at 8 a.m., or participants can register online before the event. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, along with raffles, refreshments, and a commemorative patch for all participants.
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Western Wake Farmers Market Saturday
The Western Wake Farmers Market (WWFM) offers healthy and fresh food and goods from small and local businesses from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday at the Healthy Food Hub, 280 Town Hall Drive.
This week, come pick up a free local melon and/or squash plant and/or beans at the Morrisville Education Garden: 9:00 – 11:30 a.m., or until supplies are gone. Information will be given on care and oversight. This is open to all ages, but participants under 13 years old must be accompanied by a registered adult.
WWFM now accepts EBT card withdrawals from SNAP-eligible customers at the Info Tent. They are also currently offering Double Bucks, meaning each withdrawal will be matched 1:1 in value.
CompostNow.org is also now hosting a compost collection site at the market’s information tent. Residents are invited to bring their food scraps and select other items for collection during market hours. Visit wwfm.ag to learn more.
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Now Hiring
The Town of Morrisville is now hiring for both full- and part-time positions. Check out employment opportunities here.
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EPA Administrator Regan at Walz event! | | |
Meeting Orange County Sheriff Blackwood at Recovery Summit! (More on this next week as we celebrate Recovery Month) | | |
Raleigh Chamber Annual Meeting A blast! Jes Everhart rocked! (More on this event in next newsletter) | | |
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WTPF FRIDAY with Anshony Dehart! | | |
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OTHER NORTH CAROLINA NEWS | |
JUDGE STRIKES DOWN RFK REQUEST
A North Carolina judge refused to take Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name off presidential ballots in the battleground state on Thursday, a day before the first batches of November absentee ballots are slated to be sent to registered voters who requested them.
Wake County Superior Court Judge Rebecca Holt denied the temporary restraining order sought by Kennedy to prevent county elections boards from distributing ballots affixed with his name and requiring it to be removed. State law directs the first absentee ballots for the Nov. 5 elections be mailed to requesters starting Friday. A Kennedy attorney said the decision would be appealed and Holt gave him 24 hours, ordering election officials not to send out ballots before noon Friday.
Read More at: https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-ballot-rfk-lawsuit-823b4e93686561e66fd085a540a40665
Wolfspeed to close Durham facility
In a quarterly earnings report released on Wednesday, Wolfspeed confirmed its plans to close its chip-making plant at its campus in Durham.
A spokesperson for Wolfspeed said the 150mm device fab that will close is part of multiple facilities at the Durham campus on Silicon Drive.
In the report, the tech company said it plans to transition device production to its 200-millimeter chip factory in Mohawk Valley, New York. According to the company, the new Mohawk Valley plant is producing results at “significantly” lower costs than the Durham plant.
“This improved profitability gives us the confidence to accelerate the shift of our device fabrication to Mohawk Valley, while we assess the timing of the closure of our 150mm device fabricator in Durham,” the company said.
According to Wolfspeed CEO Gregg Lowe, the company will remained based in Durham and have a substantial employee presence there.
A representative with Wolfspeed told WRAL News the Durham campus has several factories. The representative said the Mohawk Valley facility is able to make slightly larger fabrication products than in Durham. They said the larger products are more profitable, which is why the company is moving fabrication to New York.
The representative said the Durham factory will close in the "next year or so," and the closing is not imminent. WRAL News has learned hundreds of jobs would be impacted, although more specifics will not be released until the company's next report in November.
It is expected employees will have opportunities to move to other jobs within the company.
Wolfspeed has about 4,000 employees throughout the country, which includes locations in Durham, New York and Arkansas.
Courts Want to Overturn Abortion Pill Law in NC
A total of 18 Republican states are asking a federal appeals court to overturn a decision that invalidates North Carolina’s law that limits the use of the abortion pill mifepristone.
On Monday, attorneys general from Iowa, Arkansas, and South Carolina headed the coalition of red states as they filed a brief to the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals to support North Carolina’s law restricting access to mifepristone, which was struck down by a federal court in June.
The states joined North Carolina to argue that healthcare policies have historically fallen under state jurisdiction and they each have the authority and responsibility to regulate access to medication.
“Each amicus State has a sovereign interest in protecting its citizens and in ensuring its laws are not preempted by an aggressive and expansive interpretation of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act,” the attorneys general wrote.
The states argue that jurisdiction over abortion regulation returned to the states following the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization in June 2022, overturning Roe v. Wade.
The abortion pill mifepristone, initially approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2000, came under scrutiny this year in the first Supreme Court case on abortion issues since Dobbs.
In that case, anti-abortion advocates argued that the FDA did not have a proper basis to roll back regulatory restrictions on mifepristone, chiefly by allowing healthcare providers to prescribe the abortion pill without physically examining a patient.
North Carolina’s law regulating mifepristone, the Care Act, requires that only physicians can prescribe mifepristone, which is not necessary to get certification from the FDA to prescribe the abortion pill.
The law also required in-person prescribing and mandatory in-person follow-up appointments and required physicians to report non-fatal adverse events to the FDA, none of which are required by the public health agency.
“North Carolina’s common-sense laws protecting unborn life, maternal healthcare, and the integrity of the medical profession do not conflict with the FDA’s regulation of mifepristone, and the judgment below should be vacated,” the attorneys general in support of the Tar Heel State wrote.
Read More at https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/eighteen-red-states-back-north-carolina-in-lawsuit-to-reinstate-abortion-pill-restrictions/ar-AA1p8BxZ?ocid=BingNewsVerp
Robinson Rolls Out 10 Point Policy Plan
Both candidates for governor, Attorney General Josh Stein and Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, are pledging to cut taxes, but their plans to save people money look a lot different.
Robinson, the Republican candidate, announced what he calls his “10-Point Economic Plan” this month. Item No. 3 on his list is “Cut Taxes for ALL North Carolinians.” Stein has his own set of economic priorities listed on his campaign website, and his list includes “cutting taxes for working families.”
Neither candidate is proposing specific changes to the personal income tax rate at this point. That rate is currently 4.5%, and last year’s budget schedules further decreases for years to come: down to 4.25% next year and eventually to 2.49% by 2034 if the state revenues hit targets set out in state law.
Asked to elaborate on Robinson’s tax cut proposal, campaign spokesman Mike Lonergan told WUNC that “rather than Soviet-style price controls like the Biden-Harris-Stein plan, as governor, Mark Robinson will immediately provide relief by cutting taxes on groceries. He also wants to prioritize eliminating more taxes on veterans benefits.”
Grocery buyers pay a lower sales tax rate than other types of purchases: a 2% tax that funds local governments.
Rep. Ben Moss, R-Richmond, filed legislation last year that would have launched a state study on “the costs and benefits reasonably anticipated from excluding groceries from local sales taxes, including increased purchasing power for lower-income residents of the state and local revenue losses.” The bill drew a bipartisan list of co-sponsors, but it never got a hearing.
Stein’s tax plan, announced back in March, calls for bringing back the state’s earned income tax credit. It was eliminated in 2014 by the GOP-controlled legislature, and legislation filed by Democrats in the years since has gone nowhere. Republican lawmakers say they prefer cutting the tax rate for all income levels rather than targeted tax credits.
Stein said his plan would result in a $520 average credit for working families, and families with three children or more would receive a credit of up to $1,486.
Stein’s campaign announced another tax-related proposal this week: a plan to bring back a sales tax holiday in August that was popular for back-to-school shopping. His campaign said in a press release that he also wants to “provide teachers with a stipend to help cover the out-of-pocket costs of school supplies and invest in free school meals.”
Read More at https://www.wunc.org/politics/2024-08-21/nc-governor-taxes-economy-inflation-stein-robinson
STEIN AND ROBINSON ROLL OUT ECONOMIC PLANS
Both candidates for governor, Attorney General Josh Stein and Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, are pledging to cut taxes, but their plans to save people money look a lot different.
Robinson, the Republican candidate, announced what he calls his “10-Point Economic Plan” this month. Item No. 3 on his list is “Cut Taxes for ALL North Carolinians.” Stein has his own set of economic priorities listed on his campaign website, and his list includes “cutting taxes for working families.”
Neither candidate is proposing specific changes to the personal income tax rate at this point. That rate is currently 4.5%, and last year’s budget schedules further decreases for years to come: down to 4.25% next year and eventually to 2.49% by 2034 if the state revenues hit targets set out in state law.
Asked to elaborate on Robinson’s tax cut proposal, campaign spokesman Mike Lonergan told WUNC that “rather than Soviet-style price controls like the Biden-Harris-Stein plan, as governor, Mark Robinson will immediately provide relief by cutting taxes on groceries. He also wants to prioritize eliminating more taxes on veterans benefits.”
Grocery buyers pay a lower sales tax rate than other types of purchases: a 2% tax that funds local governments.
Rep. Ben Moss, R-Richmond, filed legislation last year that would have launched a state study on “the costs and benefits reasonably anticipated from excluding groceries from local sales taxes, including increased purchasing power for lower-income residents of the state and local revenue losses.” The bill drew a bipartisan list of co-sponsors, but it never got a hearing.
Stein’s tax plan, announced back in March, calls for bringing back the state’s earned income tax credit. It was eliminated in 2014 by the GOP-controlled legislature, and legislation filed by Democrats in the years since has gone nowhere. Republican lawmakers say they prefer cutting the tax rate for all income levels rather than targeted tax credits.
Stein said his plan would result in a $520 average credit for working families, and families with three children or more would receive a credit of up to $1,486.
“Josh Stein is the only candidate in this race with a proven record of delivering for the people of North Carolina,” campaign spokeswoman Morgan Hopkins said this week. “He has a plan to tackle the high cost of living by cutting taxes and lowering costs, grow the economy, and make sure it works for more people.”
Stein’s campaign announced another tax-related proposal this week: a plan to bring back a sales tax holiday in August that was popular for back-to-school shopping. His campaign said in a press release that he also wants to “provide teachers with a stipend to help cover the out-of-pocket costs of school supplies and invest in free school meals.”
Read More at https://www.wunc.org/politics/2024-08-21/nc-governor-taxes-economy-inflation-stein-robinson
MARK ROBINSON ROLLS OUT PUBLIC SAFETY PLAN
North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson reaffirmed his support for law enforcement, promising to crack down on violent crime, drugs, “and getting criminals off the streets and behind bars where they belong” if elected governor.
Robinson, the Republican gubernatorial nominee, rolled out his proposals for public safety Wednesday. It’s the latest in a string of recent policy statements Robinson has announced — releases that come as his Democratic opponent, Attorney General Josh Stein, paints Robinson as a candidate who has too little experience, and too-extreme views, to be governor.
Both men boast endorsements from various district attorneys, sheriffs, judges and other law enforcement leaders as they seek to prove their bona fides on public safety issues.
Wednesday's new additions to Robinson's platform say he’d work to bring back the death penalty — which still exists in North Carolina but hasn’t been used since 2006 — and appoint tough-on-crime judges when given the chance. Judges are elected in North Carolina, but the governor can appoint judges when vacancies arise. In his speech Wednesday in Statesville, Robinson also said he'd push for police officers to crack down more harshly on left-leaning protest movements if he wins the election.
"Radicals who believe in defunding the police, who have rioted and looted across the state and are committing acts of terror, and other acts, on our college campuses — that stops on Day 1 when I am governor," he said.
Robinson also slammed Stein for "pandering to radical activists that want to defund the police" and supporting a "pro-criminal, anti-law-enforcement agenda."
Stein co-chaired the state's Task Force on Racial Equity in Criminal Justice, a committee Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper established in response to the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. Many of that task force's recommendations — as well as Stein's 2024 platform for public safety — focus on a combination of better pay and training for law enforcement, along with stricter rules for police conduct and greater accountability for officers who break the rules.
Stein’s public safety platform highlights his track record as attorney general.
Read More at https://www.wral.com/story/robinson-announces-public-safety-platform-as-he-and-stein-accuse-each-other-of-being-too-extreme/21587548/
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LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES | |
1. Prosecutors brought a new indictment against Donald Trump for trying to overturn America’s 2020 presidential election. It preserves the four criminal charges of the original indictment, but pares away some allegations and emphasises that some of Mr Trump’s conduct lay outside of his “official responsibilities”. The revision comes after the Supreme Court ruled in July that presidents are entitled to broad immunity for official acts. Mr Trump called the new charges “the single greatest sabotage of our democracy in history”.
2. Pressure mounted on Binyamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, to end the war in Gaza. President Joe Biden accused Mr Netanyahu of failing to do enough to secure the release of hostages; Britain said it would suspend some arms-export licences to Israel over its suspected breaches of international humanitarian law. But in a defiant press conference on Monday Mr Netanyahu defended his country’s war in Gaza, and his refusal to agree to a ceasefire.
3. A court in Venezuela issued an arrest warrant for Edmundo González. Mr González claims, legitimately, that he defeated President Nicolás Maduro in a presidential election in July. Since stealing the vote, Mr Maduro has cracked down on dissent. Mr González, who is in hiding, has been charged with “usurpation”, conspiracy and sabotage.
4. Cathay Pacific said it had completed inspection of all of its Airbus A350 jets, after an engine component failed mid-flight. Disruption will continue until Saturday, while the company carries out repairs on 12 remaining aircraft with engine parts that need replacing. Shares in Rolls-Royce, the company that manufactures engines for A350 planes, fell by about 6.5% on Monday.
5. Kamala Harris said US Steel should remain “American owned” during a visit to Pittsburgh, the company’s home. Her remarks will disappoint Nippon Steel, the Japanese company which hopes to acquire its rival for $15bn. Ms Harris is courting workers on her campaign trail through Michigan and Pennsylvania. Donald Trump has also opposed the deal.
6. EDF, France’s state-owned nuclear company, said it would finally start operations at its Flamanville reactor. If the launch is successful, the reactor is expected to be connected to the grid before the end of the year. Flamanville cost €13.2bn ($14.6bn) to build and ran 12 years behind schedule. EDF said it had learnt valuable lessons for future projects.
7. At least 129 prisoners died during a failed escape attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Many were killed during a stampede, officials said. Prison guards also shot around 24 inmates, according to Shabani Lukoo, the country’s interior minister. The prison was about ten times over capacity. In 2017 more than 4,000 prisoners escaped from it.
8. Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country. Catholics make up about 3% of the population. Francis aims to develop inter-faith dialogue there. During his 12-day trip across Asia he will fly some 30,000km and visit four countries. At age 87, it will be the longest trip of his papacy.
9. Donald Trump said that, if elected, he would appoint Elon Musk to lead a “government efficiency commission” to slash red tape and cut expenditure. In a speech to the Economic Club of New York, Mr Trump said the commission would recommend “drastic reforms”, although he was murky on specifics. Mr Musk and Mr Trump have drawn closer over the past year, as the tech billionaire threw his weight behind Mr Trump’s campaign. Some of his businesses, such as X and SpaceX, are regulated by government agencies.
10. Toyota became the latest carmaker to scale back its electric-vehicle plans as it battles slowing consumer demand and stiff competition from Chinese rivals. The Japanese company cut its production target for 2030 by one third. Earlier this week Volvo, a Swedish brand, dropped ambitions to sell only EVs by 2030; America’s Ford and General Motors have both recently revised their production targets.
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Hum Sub Diwali Oct 12 Koka Booth Ampitheater! https://humsub.org/diwali/
Morrisville Diwali 5 - 8 pm Cedar Fork District Park!
Morrisville Boo Bash 3 - 6pm Morrisville Community Park!
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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 Patricia Spillane, PSpillane@morrisvillenc.gov, 919-463-6168.
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Council Member Steve Rao
Town of Morrisville
Dedicated to transforming Morrisville into an ideal place to work and raise a family!
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