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INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY EDITION

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

August 15, 2023

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes.

My Weekly Update


https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1380849362499052


Today, is the one year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act. I will be sharing an update on this historic piece of legislation in my next newsletter. 

URL ALERT:


Please Note that the town of Morrisville URL has changed from www.townofmorrisville.org to www.morrisvillenc.gov


Email address will change in a few weeks. (See This Week In Morrisville for more details)

SPORTS ALERTS:


Good Luck to SAMP Army and Morrisville Unity!

US Masters T10 League Season 1 Exhibition Matches to launch Aug 18- 27, 2023 in Lauderhill, Florida

Book Your tickets before its SOLD out.

https://usmasterst10.com/usa-master-t10-buy-tickets/

Good Luck Spain, Sweden, Australia and UK at Womens Soccer World Cup!

https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/14/football/womens-world-cup-2023-semifinalists-guide-spt-intl/index.html

Get your tickets for the Winston Salem Open, last summer series event before the US Open!

https://www.winstonsalemopen.com/en/

Support Hawaii at American Red Cross. 99 Dead


https://www.redcross.org/local/hawaii/about-us/contact-us.html

Insights from Ram at Atlantic Tire Event:


https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159155098426360/7320065774687020

Congrats to Hometown Hero Dicky Walia 


Congratulations to our fearless Community leader Dicky Walia for being inducted into the 2023 North Carolina Pro Bono Society by North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Paul Newby. 



NC Digital Summitt:


NC Digital Sumit is today! Learn more at:


https://events.govtech.com/north-carolina-digital-government-summit.html

S'Morrisville!


Thanks to everyone who came out to S'Morrisville!  It was so fun to be S'Morrisville for one day! 

Read my WRAL Blog on North Carolina Indians helping Systemic Challenges: 


https://www.wral.com/story/steve-rao-indian-americans-strengthen-north-carolina-amid-systemic-challenges/20603295/

MEDIA ALERT




  • Our Radio Nyra Indian Independence Day Interview with USINPAC Chair Sanjay Puri will be today at 9am and 7pm. (99.FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM)





  • TUNE IN ON FRIDAY at 3 pm to WPTF 98.5 FM and 680 AM for my Commentary on the Nate Saunders show!   



This Friday, Swadesh Chatterjee will be our guest at 3:20 pm!  


www.wptf.com 


WPTF - 98.5FM and 680 AM. 


PBS Carolinas Fall Season begins in August, State Lines and Black Issues Forum


https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-afternoon-news/

NC House Indian Independence Day Resolution: 


The NC House is planning to vote on a resolution honoring the 77th Independence Day of India on Wednesday, August 16, 2023

View live stream at https://www.ncleg.gov/ and it will be betwee 2 pm and 4 pm.  

Insights from Indian Pro Tennis Player Ram Ramanathan at Atlantic Tire Event: 


https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159155098426360/7320065774687020

  

Atlantic Tire Championships Close out the Weekend!


A special thanks to Tournament Director Ted Reece, the Town of Cary for another successful Mens Pro Challenger event. 

Congratulations to Australian Adam Walton for winning the Single Championships and to Doubles Champions Evan King and Reese Stalder. 

We look forward to the second event, coming on Sept 10th to Cary!


https://www.carync.gov/recreation-enjoyment/facilities/cary-tennis-park/atlantic-tire-championships

Honoring Ned Byrd


Today is the one-year anniversary of Wake County Sheriff Deputy Ned Byrd.  He can be honored over the weekend by participating in the Ned Byrd Triathlon on Sunday and free Jujitsu classes at the PNC Arena.


Find Memorial weekend events at https://www.wral.com/story/deputy-ned-byrd-to-be-honored-at-memorial-weekend-events/20960431/

Quotes of the Day: 


"We believe in the mantra of Nation First, Always First" Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  


"A nation capable of limitless sacrifice is capable of reaching unlimited heights." 

Mahatma Gandhi Aug. 5th, 1920. 


Dear Friends, 


Since I am out for a few days, I wanted to wish each of you in our community a very Happy 76th Indian Independence Day.  


The All-America City of Morrisville is blessed to have a large Indian community that is dedicated to education, hard work, and charity.  Each of you are taking our state of first flight to even greater heights with your remarkable contributions to the Triangle Region and State.   There was no greater remnder of this fact when I heard the inspiting words of India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi talk about India's bright future and the remarkable transformation the Indian Diaspora continues to bring to the United States of America. 


Today, we honor Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian Freedom Fighters for fighting for India’s Independence and thus allowing generations of Indians to flourish around the world.   Thank you Gandhi ji for instilling family, faith and freedom in your countrymen and women and for demonstrating to all of humanity, that we can each become the change we seek in the world.  


I will end with a final quote from Gandhi ji from August 25, 1920….” A nation that is capable of limitless sacrifice is capable of rising to limitless heights. The purer the sacrifice the quicker the progress”.   


Let these words be an inspiration for our children, that it will take hard work, collaboration and sacrifice, to help the United States reach limitless heights again.   We must continue our work to strengthen the foundation of the US-India relationship, one of the most important strategic relationships in the world at this time in history.  


As the people of Ukraine remind us, we can never take our freedom for granted.  It is a gift that we must always fight to keep, now and forever.  


Long Live India, Long Live North Carolina, and Long Live the United States of America. 

NATION FIRST, ALWAYS FIRST 


My Thoughts on NATION FIRST, ALWAYS FIRST:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/311332341451797


This year, the theme of the Independence Day celebrations is 'Nation First, Always First'. From flowers to paintings, all the arrangements being done for the Independence Day 2celebrations will carry the theme 'Nation First, Always First'.


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will continue the tradition of addressing the nation from the Red Fort. 


The need of the nation is to unite and work towards national progress, Modi said.


Read more at:

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/we-must-move-forward-with-nation-first-always-first-mantra-says-prime-minister-modi/articleshow/84726872.cms

CELEBRATING INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY


My Indian Independence Day Message: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1339975203613268


Indian Independence Day is celebrated on August 15th every year to commemorate the day in 1947 when India gained independence from British rule. This historic event marked the end of over 200 years of colonial rule and the beginning of a new era for the country. The struggle for independence was led by various freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and many others.


On Independence Day, various events and celebrations take place across the country. The main event is held in the capital city of New Delhi, where the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers a speech to the nation. The event is attended by dignitaries, government officials, and thousands of citizens.


Independence Day is a national holiday in India, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor. People across the country hoist the national flag at their homes, schools, and offices. Cultural programs, parades, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and patriotic songs are organized to honor the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and to celebrate the spirit of freedom and unity.


The tricolor flag of India, with saffron at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom, along with the Ashoka Chakra (a wheel with 24 spokes), is a prominent symbol of Indian Independence Day. The flag represents the diversity and unity of the nation.


Independence Day serves as a reminder of India's rich history, the sacrifices made by its people, and the ongoing journey toward progress, development, and prosperity.

MY WRAL OPINION PIECE: 


INDIAN AMERICANS STRENGTHEN NORTH CAROLINA AMID SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES: 

https://www.wral.com/story/steve-rao-indian-americans-strengthen-north-carolina-amid-systemic-challenges/20603295/


Last August, I joined over 1,000 Indian Americans for a parade in Morrisville celebrating the 75th anniversary of Indian independence. Immigrants and people of Indian descent from all over the Triangle gathered beneath three fluttering flags — the Indian tricolor, the North Star, and the Stars and Stripes. We celebrated our shared heritage.

People yelled out: “Jai Hind” (“Bravo, India”) and “Long Live America,” all in the same breath.


It reminded me—as it always does-- how much India and America have in common. Just like the American colonists, Indians rose up and threw off the yoke of British imperial rule. Like us, they committed to building a democratic nation.


Yet, it’s the United States that so many Indian families look to as they dream of their future. Scores of people—much like my own parents—come here in search of opportunity, a great education and the chance to build a career. Still, many of these newcomers are disappointed.


Often they find our immigration system makes it incredibly difficult to stay and work. Employment visas are in short supply. Many American-trained Indians with vital technical skills have been forced to return home, even though there aren’t nearly enough native American workers to take their place.


The few who do get skilled-worker visas can still face an indeterminate wait – decades long in many cases -- green cards. Hundreds of thousands of skilled workers are stuck in visa limbo. They may be able to work here, but unable to earn permanent residency or citizenship. Worse, it leaves their children -- “documented Dreamers” who have spent most of their lives in the United States -- unable to remain in America after they turn 21. There’s no clear path to either a permanent work visa or citizenship, though many consider themselves to be American.


Even amid these challenges, Indian-Americans are making critical contributions to their communities. Today about a third of Morrisville’s 30,000 residents are Indian-Americans. I am inspired by the remarkable economic, cultural and political transformation this community is bringing to our region and state. I can start my day in Morrisville with an Idli Dosa breakfast and a South Indian filter coffee, watch Cricket at Church Street Park and end my day with a Holi or Diwali festival at the Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary or Hindu Society of North Carolina. I also serve with an immigrant from Mumbai, Satish Garimella, on the Morrisville City Council -- the only council in the State with two Hindu members.


North Carolina’s Asian-American population has grown 65% over the past decade, bringing vital skills, driving economic growth and offsetting the impact of labor shortages in some critical skills, for our state’s employers.


Today Indians account for about 20% of all international students in the United States. They’re making vital contributions to the success of North Carolina’s amazing educational institutions. In North Carolina alone, international students generate $484 million in economic activity which contributions to the creation of almost 5,700 jobs.


About 20% of Indian students are enrolled in STEM programs, gaining the vital science, technology, engineering, and math skills that our high-tech businesses urgently need. It’s estimated that every foreign STEM graduate who finds work in the United States creates about 3 new jobs for U.S. If we enable just half of our advanced-degree STEM students to stay and work after graduation we could create another 2,400 jobs for North Carolinian workers.


Earlier this month, President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act, providing important aid for America’s high-tech manufacturers. But as it made its way through Congress, the law was stripped of vital provisions that would have made it easier for Indian STEM graduates to gain green cards.


As the child of Indian immigrants, I’m passionate about giving skilled workers and their children a real chance to put down roots here in North Carolina.


Morrisville’s Indian Independence parade was a reminder that Indians who are building lives in America are integrating into our communities. They are proud of their Indian heritage, but they are equally proud of-- and deeply committed to—the United States of America.


Our lawmakers need to do their part and give these valued members of our communities a clearer path forward to stay in America and become citizens. The next best opportunity for action is the National Defense Authorization Act, which could include measures to address the needs of documented Dreamers.


Our representatives in Washington must rethink and revise outmoded policies that stand in the way of innovation and growth.

Get your tickets for the Winston Salem Open, the last summer series event before the US Open!


https://www.winstonsalemopen.com/en/

Highlights of the Week:

Town Council Has Productive Meeting!  See Council Highlights:  

Morrisville becomes Smore'sville on August 10th! 

The town of Cary is hosting Atlantic Tire Tennis Championships Challenger Aug 6- Aug. 13th! 

Tune in to PBS Carolinas StateLines on Friday at 8:30 pm as I resume my role as a Political Analyst on this new show.  


www.pbsnc.org

Tune in to WPTF 98.5 FM and 680 AM Friday at 3:20 pm to hear from Swadesh Chatterjee talk about Indian Independence Day.



Tune in today to Radio Nyra at 9am and 7pm to hear our Indian Independence Day Interview with Sanjay Puri. 



Check out my WPTF Commentarywith Swadesh Chatterjee at

 https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-afternoon-news/1072672/



Tune in on tomorrow to Radio Nyra to hear our Indian Independence Day Interview with Sanjay Puri



Town of Morrisville URL changes from www.townofmorrisville.org to www.morrisvillenc.gov. 



GET THE MORRISVILLE APP AT THE APP STORE!


Get all the latest information about news and events around Town with the authoritative app, Morrisville Central. 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. You can also report concerns as you see them using the app’s interactive tool.


Download the app from the Apple App Store or from Google Play.

BREAKING NEWS: 

Trump indicted in Georgia Election Probe.


https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-fulton-county-georgia-08-14-23/index.html

Hawaii fires leave 99 dead. Hawaii's worst major catastrophe in history.


https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/live-blog/maui-fires-live-updates-thousands-flee-unprecedented-disaster-rcna99164

North Carolina Budget will not pass until at least September, Medicaid Expansion could be delayed.  


(See NC News) 

Vinfast will be largest economic development deal in NC History!  


https://www.newsobserver.com/news/business/article277912548.html


Wake County Schools to address Bus shortage this evening at 5:30pm. Watch live at:


https://www.youtube.com/user/WakeCountySchools/videos

NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK VISITS

Mi Cancun:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/563048302582861

EMPANADAS NOW:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1443909203062868

The Shed at Perimeter Park: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/905867964052478

Bond Brothers Beer at Park West Concert:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/737542471497889

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

Radio Nyra Interview


Radio Nyra Asian American Heritage Interview with AAPI Caucus

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/201692958860555/?t=39

ROKU and POD TV

Great US Open Roku TV Interview with Andy Andrews!


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

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:

Join Our Mailing List

This Week in Morrisville. August 7- August 11

Upcoming Meetings

Aug. 8 – 6 p.m. – Town Council Meeting.

Aug. 9 – 6:30 p.m. – Performance Measures Advisory Committee.

Aug. 10 – 6:30 p.m. – Planning & Zoning Board.

Now Hiring: Join the MAFC Team


The Town of Morrisville is now hiring for both full and part-time positions including:


Check out additional employment opportunities in the Town here.

Town of Morrisville Website to Transition to a New .Gov URL


The Town website will soon get a brand-new URL! The website will be moving from www.townofmorrisville.org to www.morrisvillenc.gov. By adopting a new .gov URL, the Town is creating a safer and more authoritative online presence. Only official government entities can maintain a .gov domain, which is sponsored by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and comes with increased security measures. The new Town of Morrisville domain will go live on Aug. 14 at 12:30 p.m. The previous URL will automatically redirect to the new URL, but visitors are asked to update their bookmarks.


Music in the Park Canceled Tonight due to Rain


The Retro-Grade Music in the Park concert scheduled for tonight at the Morrisville Healthy Food Hub has been canceled due to rain. Please join us on Sept. 8 to see Jives perform.


S'Morrisville to Share Sweet Treats with the Community on Aug. 10


Morrisville residents are invited to take part in National S’mores Day in “S’Morrisville” each year. That’s right – the Town will change its name and become S’Morrisville as we honor and enjoy the delicious snacks made famous at campfires everywhere. The Town will hand out delicious s'mores at Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway, on Aug. 10, from 6-7 p.m. There will also be a DJ and crafts for kids. Event parking is on site. Visit https://www.townofmorrisville.org/smorrisville for more information.


Before the fun starts at Morrisville Community Park, Mayor TJ Cawley will read the proclamation changing the Town’s name to S’Morrisville at Handel’s Handmade Ice Cream, 115 Parkside Valley Drive, Suite 30, where he will also serve ice cream and take photos with the community. Those purchasing ice cream will also receive an additional free cup of s’mores ice cream.


Project Team to Conduct Site Visit Aug. 7 for Greenways Feasibility Study


A project team will assess the Stirrup Iron Creek and Mills Spring Greenway corridors on Aug. 7 to determine current conditions and provide information about the future greenway design. Representatives from Vanasse Hangen Brustlin (VHB) and members of Town staff will be taking pictures and recording notes in the areas around Aviation Parkway, Airport Boulevard, and Carrington Mill Boulevard on the north side of the Town. These efforts will support the first step of grant-funded study to evaluate the preferred alignment and feasibility of these greenways identified in the Town’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The feasibility study will be a tool to inform the Town’s future Capital Investment Program (CIP) planning and used to pursue grants for the construction of the greenway. For questions, please contact Principal Planner Danielle Kittredge at dkittredge@townofmorrisville.org or 919-463-6927.


Construction on Several Smart Shuttle Nodes to Begin Aug. 7


Construction work will begin at seven Smart Shuttle nodes on Aug. 7, resulting in some street and sidewalk closures. Work will be done to modify or replace the concrete pads at seven “nodes” – the name for the pickup and drop-off locations for the Smart Shuttle. These concrete pads will be expanded or otherwise modified to change the walking path to improve safety or to ensure accessibility. Some nodes will also be improved by adding amenities such as benches or bike racks.

 

Work will be done at the Smart Shuttle nodes located at Aviation Parkway, NC-54 Highway near Park West Village, Morrisville Parkway, the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center, the Kitts Creek community, and Town Hall Drive (both the Cedar Fork Community Center north and south nodes). Work is expected to last four weeks. Short-term closures may be made to adjacent street lanes, the sidewalk, and the node itself. For more information, please contact Kitty Thomas, the project manager, at 919-463-6917.


Sign-Ups Open for August 'How To' Classes at MAFC


The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC), 1301 Morrisville Parkway, will host seven how-to classes in August on a variety of topics, including water walking, racquetball, TRX, and more. Not only do these classes teach important skills, but they also give the community an opportunity to become familiar with the facility and its amenities. A MAFC membership or single visit pass purchase is required to attend each class. Each class will open for registration one week in advance at www.tinyurl.com/signupmafc.


Open House on Transit Oriented Development and Zoning Plan Set for Aug. 10


Please join staff from the Town’s Planning Department and the Town’s consultants, Houseal Lavigne, to learn about the proposed Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and Zoning Plan at an open house at Town Council Chambers, 100 Town Hall Drive, on Aug. 10, from 4-6 p.m. As part of the ongoing 2021 Land Use Plan implementation process, this plan provides a visualization of the TOD and will serve as the basis for future zoning text amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance to install the TOD zoning standards. The open house will not include a formal presentation. Instead, the consultants and Town staff will be available to review the proposed plan, including maps and conceptual images, with interested parties on a come-and-go basis. Click here for more information on the implementation of the Land Use Plan.


Morrisville Senior Center Hosting Senior Resources Fair on Aug. 18


The Morrisville Senior Center, 4117 Davis Drive, will host a Senior Resources Fair on Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon, to help the community learn about the many resources available for seniors in Morrisville and the surrounding area. Multiple organizations and vendors will be at the fair, covering topics such as senior living options, Medicare, physical and speech therapy, homecare options, and more. For more information, please visit www.townofmorrisville.org/msc or call 919-463-7140.


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.

AUG 8th COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS 


Highlights from the August 8, 2023 Morrisville Town Council meeting include:

• Crabtree Creek Nature Park Project

• Morrisville Smart Shuttle Update

• Morrisville Grants Program Update

• Proclamations: S’Morrisville, India Independence Day, National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, Senior Citizens Day

• Affordable Housing Update


Read the full details at https://bit.ly/3Qz5WRE


#LiveConnectedLiveWell

AUGUST MORRISVILLE SENIOR CENTER EVENTS


Senior Resources Fair


Friday, Aug 18th 10 am to 12 pm at Morrisville Senior Center (4117 Davis Drive, Morrisville, NC 27560)


Pizza and Bingo


Monday, Aug. 21 from 4-6 p.m.

Register at https://bit.ly/46WAiDr


Ice Cream Social


Wednesday, Aug. 30 from 1-3 p.m. 

Register at https://bit.ly/3rw0JPX


National Eat a Hoagie Day


Thursday, Sept. 14 from 1-4 p.m.

Register at https://bit.ly/3Kbf1fb


The Morrisville Senior Center hosts activities all month long including bingo, chair yoga, Zumba, and line dancing. Register for these and more at https://bit.ly/44wHqUL

Morrisville Senior Center, 4117 Davis Drive


919-463-7140

Around the Region

Spent some time with the Doubles Semifinalists Ram Ramanathan And Paruv Raja! Good Luck tonight!



Hanging out with Atlantic Tire Tennis Champion Adam Walton!

How much Pickleball is too much pickleball?  I may be changing sports soon!

Great time at NC Tech Summit! Inspiring panels and work sessions! 


Inspiring words from NC Technology Secretary Jim Weaver.  I will share some insights from the event later in the month. 

Inspired by NC Tech Association CEO, Brooks Raidford at NC Executive Roundtable Lunch! 


Small Business Listening Tour: 

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

SMALL BUSINESS VISIT OF THE WEEK


NATIONAL Minority Economic Development Institute at NC Tech Leadership Summit


https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/255410763968554


NC State Extension Composting:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/959841225036371

Yes Solar Solutions

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1080676136223189

Towards Zero Waste and NC Composting Council:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/537361191935765

Insights from ExtoBio:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/969332764115332


I had a wonderful visit with Jose Pecheco, CEO of ExtoBio, whose company pitched at the TIE Carolinas Launch Event at the American Underground Bull Penn in Durham.  Leading with scientific research and a thorough dedication to data, ExstoBio is disrupting the pharmaceutical industry, formalizing cannabis-as-a-medicine, and personalizing patient care.


Congratulations to all of the Companies who pitched to the Expert Pitch Panel and a special congrats to Pitch Winner, Wolfspider. Wolfspider is an Ag Tech company that brings together genetics and robotics to ensure confidence in crop yield and limiting chemical use. The company would love to connect individuals with experience in the ag tech space. 


Thanks to ExstoBio (UNC), Aurganics (Duke), Vistara (NCSU), WolfSpider (NCSU), BioSensys (NCSU), and Collab (UNC) for participating in the event.  

 

WolfSpider will be going to Silicon Valley for a global pitch tournament with ~40 other companies to compete for $100K+ in cash prizes.


And Thanks to Tim Scales from American Underground for hosting and to all the judges and attendees!   

SBA ADMINISTRATOR THOMAS AND I VISIT SMALL BUSINESSES IN MORRISVILLE!


During Allen Thomas’ visit to Morrisville, he and I were able to drop in and visit some Small Businesses in Grace Park Office Center.  During our visits, he was able to connect with these companies, and provide them guidance on how to navigate through a very complex system to get access to SBA resources.  

Visit with New York Deli:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/596452855872694

Visit with Acme Pizza:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/971277980525504

Visit with Empanadas and More:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/607568900925114

Morrisville Compounding Pharmacy


Visit with Morrisville Compounding Pharmacy at Brierpoint: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/240100088382575

North Carolina News

Wake County Schools to address Bus Shortage


The start of the traditional school calendar is almost here -- and Wake County Schools is trying to make sure there are enough bus drivers to ensure every child has a ride to class.

With less than two weeks until the first day of school, we’re expecting to get an update today from Wake County Schools about their bus driver shortage.


A couple of weeks ago, WRAL News told you there were 17 bus routes without a full-time driver. This means about 2,000 students won’t have normal bus transportation at the start of the school year.


Here’s how that could impact your kids depending on where they go to school:


The school system is using substitute drivers to pick up elementary schoolers every day.

But middle and high schools will get service every other week.


The school system hasn’t determined which schools would be impacted, but they say they plan to avoid higher-needs middle and high schools where students may struggle to get their own transportation.


The district says they’ve got 16 bus driver candidates that have already completed their CDL training.


NC Speaker says House Budget will be delayed


A final North Carolina state budget won't be enacted until September, the House's top leader said Monday. That could scuttle efforts by Gov. Roy Cooper's administration for Medicaid expansion to begin in early fall.


House and Senate Republicans are whittling down dozens of outstanding spending and policy issues within a two-year spending plan that was supposed to take effect July 1.

The top leader in the North Carolina House warns that a final state budget won't be enacted until September


House and Senate Republicans are whittling down dozens of outstanding spending and policy issues within a spending plan that was supposed to take effect July 1


GOP legislators are still aiming for a budget agreement in August, but House Speaker Tim Moore said Monday that the actual passage won't happen until September given the outstanding issues and legislators' schedules


Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper could veto the budget bill, leading to override votes


The delays could scuttle efforts by Cooper's administration to begin Medicaid expansion Oct. 1

While some big-ticket items like tax cuts and worker raises have been settled, other details remain unresolved. Add travel and other activities by rank-and-file lawmakers and the narrow GOP veto-proof majorities in the General Assembly, and House Speaker Tim Moore said the periods during which formal business can be conducted in Raleigh are limited.


Sen. Ralph Hise, a Mitchell County Republican and one of the chief budget negotiators, told reporters that votes on a budget agreement could happen in two weeks if differences can be worked out in a reasonable time. Any final budget could be vetoed by the Democratic governor, with override votes to follow.


When asked later Monday to describe the chances that a final budget could be carried out by the end of August, Moore replied: “Zero.”


“Just with some absences I know that the Senate has on their side, and with just some of the logistics that have been talked about at this point ... you’re talking about a September date for actual passage — signing (the bill) into law and all that,” Moore said.


A separate law that Cooper signed in March would expand Medicaid to potentially 600,000 low-income adults, but it can't happen until a state budget law is enacted.


Cooper health Secretary Kody Kinsley unveiled a plan last month by which the expanded coverage would begin Oct. 1 as long as his agency received a formal go-ahead by legislators to accept expansion by Sept. 1. Otherwise, Kinsley said, implementation would be delayed until at least Dec. 1.


Legislative leaders have refused to permit the implementation of expansion without the budget's passage, as Cooper has sought. His administration has said the state misses out on more than $500 million in federal funding for each month that expansion isn’t implemented.  


Read More at https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2023/08/08/north-carolina-state-budget-won-t-become-law-until-september--house-leader-says


The Fight Begins to Replace Tim Moore as Speaker


North Carolina's embattled House Speaker Tim Moore, the longest-serving speaker in state history, has made it clear that this term will be his last as head of the Republican-led chamber.


Moore's exit from the position has long been anticipated by political observers, igniting a race to replace him that has been playing out behind the scenes for months.

Why it matters: North Carolina's House speaker, though not elected by the general public, is one of the most powerful politicians in the state.


The speaker has the authority to determine what bills ultimately become laws, what state agencies and programs are funded — and given the ability to carry out their mission — and who is granted power over the influential state boards and commissions, like the UNC System Board of Governors and the state's utilities commission.

Details: On the shortlist to replace Moore are two of the most powerful people in the chamber:


House Majority Leader John Bell, who has served in the legislature for six terms and is the longest-serving House majority leader in state history.


House Rules Committee Chair Destin Hall, a 30-something who quickly ascended to become a Republican leader and Moore's right-hand man when he was appointed to the position nearly three years ago.


Though Bell has already made clear his plans to run for speaker, Hall confirmed for the first time to Axios Friday that he also plans to campaign for the position.

Read More at https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/07/21/nc-state-house-race-house-speaker-power-tim-moore-destin-hall-john-bell


Concerns mount about Overreaching of Legislature 


Senate Bill 512 takes appointments held now by Gov. Roy Cooper and shifts them to the General Assembly. Nine boards would be affected, and the governor would still have at least some appointments to each board.


Here are the nine boards in the bill and a brief description of what would change:

N.C. Utilities Commission: Add two members for a total of nine, with four appointed by the General Assembly, four by the governor and one by the state treasurer. The governor currently appoints this full board, which regulates Duke Energy and other public utilities.


Economic Investment Committee: Add two members for a total of seven, with three members of the executive branch serving with two General Assembly appointees and two legislators. This committee decides economic incentive grants.


Environmental Management Commission: Currently the governor appoints nine members and the General Assembly six. The bill would give the governor seven appointments, the General Assembly six and the state’s commissioner of agriculture two. This commission sets pollution regulations.


Commission for Public Health: Right now the governor appoints nine members and the N.C. Medical Society, a doctors group, elects four. The bill would leave the governor five appointees, give four to the General Assembly and let the Medical Society elect four.


Board of Transportation: Now the governor appoints 14 members and the General Assembly appoints six. 


The bill flips that, giving the legislature 14 appointments and the governor six. The Secretary of Transportation, appointed by the governor, would continue to serve as a non-voting board member.


Coastal Resources Commission: Right now the governor appoints nine members and the legislature four. The bill would give the General Assembly six appointments, the governor six and the state’s insurance commissioner one.


AG Stein says that this is a powergrab that violates Separation of Powers...  


Fowell Concerned that Rising Health Care Costs May Affect State Workers 


Since becoming North Carolina’s treasurer in 2017, Dale Folwell has energetically asserted that rising health care costs could significantly impact the State Health Plan.


It’s gotten to the point that lawmakers are considering a request from Folwell to force hospitals to cut what they charge the plan — or face shutdowns.


The plan, which Folwell’s office oversees, serves roughly 740,000 state employees, teachers, retirees and their dependents.


Adequate funding for it matters because it helps keep premiums low, co-pays at bay and benefits robust, he told The News & Observer.


If health care costs keep rising without adequate funding, Folwell said his office won’t be able to “hold the dam in terms of freezing family premiums and deductibles or copays,” which he said has been a priority for him.


Nationally, health care costs have increased faster than those in almost any other economic sector, according to the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, which monitors the U.S. health system. From 2000 to 2021, health spending tripled, to $4.3 trillion, according to the tracker.


About half of that growth in spending can be attributed to hospital costs.


Is there a funding shortfall?

The revenue for the State Health Plan mostly comes from premiums paid by employees and contributions paid by employers, including state agencies, school systems, universities and community colleges.


The state, via the budget, funds the employer contributions for active state employees and qualifying retirees.


The State Health Plan had a cash balance at the end of May of $796.6 million. This was well above the target stabilization reserve, set at $359.9 million. This reserve is meant to tackle any unexpected costs and hiccups.


If the plan’s revenue increases by more than 18% from this year to 2027, and health care expenses grow by over 28%, there would be a nearly $1 billion deficit.  

Read More at https://www.aol.com/news/rising-health-care-costs-might-090000079.html

LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES 

A grand jury in Georgia indicted Donald Trump and 18 of his allies over their attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election result in the state. The charges were brought under the state’s Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organisations Act, which is typically used to combat organised crime. The indictment means that Mr Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in the 2024 election, now faces four sets of criminal charges.


Search teams continued to look for more victims from the wildfires in Hawaii. The death toll has risen to at least 99 people, but hundreds remain unaccounted for. Josh Green, Hawaii’s governor, said that at least 2,200 buildings had been destroyed. The cause of the blaze has not yet been determined, but some residents have filed two lawsuits against an electrical company, blaming its equipment.


President Joe Biden signed a disaster declaration approving federal aid to Hawaii, where wildfires killed at least 55 people. Flames, fanned by the winds of a distant hurricane, devastated parts of Maui. Lahaina, a tourist town, was largely destroyed. Hundreds of people are still missing; many fled the smoke by jumping into the ocean.


Russia’s rouble slumped to a 16-month low of 100 against the dollar, having lost around 25% of its value this year. Deteriorating foreign trade conditions and an escalation in military spending have accelerated its fall in recent weeks. The currency was already suffering from western sanctions and European countries’ diversification away from Russian energy supplies.


Niger’s military government vowed to prosecute Mohamed Bazoum, the deposed president, for “high treason”. The junta, which seized power last month, accused Mr Bazoum of “undermining the internal and external security of Niger”. Earlier a group of Islamic scholars who held mediation talks with the generals reported that they are open to diplomacy and to talks with west African leaders.


The death toll from wildfires in Hawaii rose to at least 93. It is the deadliest natural disaster since the archipelago became an American state in 1959. Josh Green, Hawaii’s governor, promised to investigate the response to the fires. Many residents have complained that emergency-warning systems never sounded. President Joe Biden said he was “looking into” visiting Hawaii in the coming days.


Seven prominent pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, including Jimmy Lai, a media tycoon, were cleared of organising an unauthorised protest in 2019. Their convictions for attending the march were upheld. The rally, which organisers claimed 1.7m people attended, was part of a wave of anti-government protests. A draconian national-security law imposed in 2020 to prevent further unrest has largely silenced dissent.


Shares in Country Garden, one of China’s biggest property developers, plunged by 16% to a record low. The slump was triggered by an announcement over the weekend that the company would suspend trading in some of its bonds. Last week it was reported that the firm was restructuring its debts after missing international bond payments. Country Garden’s woes will add to the growing concerns about China’s economy.


Javier Milei, a far-right, libertarian economist, took a surprise lead in an important primary vote in Argentina ahead of a general election in October. With 80% of the ballot counted, Mr Milei had secured 31% of the vote, more than the ruling coalition or the main opposition bloc. Mr Milei, who has been likened to Donald Trump, has promised to “burn down” the central bank for mismanaging the economy.


US Steel rejected a $7.3bn acquisition offer from Cleveland-Cliffs, a rival American steelmaker. The deal would have created one of the ten biggest steel firms in the world, a list currently dominated by Chinese companies. US Steel, which has struggled in recent years, said it was considering its options after receiving multiple offers.


Figure of the day: $480m, the money spent by teams in the Saudi football league on transfer fees this summer.

UPCOMING EVENTS

August 4th Music In the Park Concert at 6pm at HEALTHY FOOD HUB was canceled.  


See you Sept. 8th for next concert! 

Aug 9th and 10th NC Leadership Summit. 

www.nctech.org 


On August 10, The Town of Morrisville becomes Smore'sville!  


 at Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway, on Aug. 10, from 6-7 p.m

Aug 15th North Carolina Digital Summit. 


https://events.govtech.com/north-carolina-digital-government-summit.html

Aug 18th RIOTDeveloper DAY 8 am to 3 pm at NC State.  

Find out more at www.riotnc.org


Aug 19th Indian Independence Day Event at HSNC from 11am to 1 pm.  


Aug 24th NC Vet Biz Procurement Summit.  

www.ncvetbiz.org

Aug 27th Emotional and Spiritual Well Being Seminar from 6 pm to 7 pm at HSNC. 




Sept 30th Morrisville Community Fire Academy 


Have you ever dreamed about being a firefighter? Attend our Community Fire Academy from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 30. It is limited to 20 persons, participants must be at least 18 years old, and advance sign-up is required. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3FmekO0

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
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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 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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