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ST. PATRICK'S DAY AND RAMADAN/CREEK WEEK EDITION: |
From the Council Office of Steve Rao
March 15, 2024
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Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes. | |
MARCH 16-MARCH 24! IT IS CREEK WEEK | |
How will you be involved in 2024 Town of Morrisville, NC #CreekWeek?
- Vol. for the #Stormwater Runoff 5K (3 slots left)
- Participate in the 5K (51 participants right now) The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. at Cedar Fork District Park (228 Aviation Parkway). The route follows Town greenways and passes along some waterways! Register at https://runnc.com/event/167189.
- Make observations for the Biothon
All the information you need is here:
https://www.morrisvillenc.gov/.../morrisville-creek-week/
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Holi is Saturday, March 16th! We are ONLY one day away from the Town of Morrisville, NC Holi Celebration on Saturday, March 16 from 12-3 P.M. at Cedar Fork Community Center! What are you most excited for at this year's celebration? For all the event details, visit morrisvillenc.gov/holi.
See you at Cedar Fork Community Center by noon!
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Starting on Monday, March 11, the Town of Morrisville is installing traffic signals and associated improvements at the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Old Savannah Drive. As part of this work, there will be short-term street lane and sidewalk closures near all four corners of the intersection.
For more information and questions, contact Project Manager Kitty Thomas at 919-463-6917.
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Senator Mike Woodard’s Journey at the NC Senate comes to an end. | |
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Please check out the Council of State and other results for the NC 2024 Primary in the Primary Results Section of this newsletter. | |
APPLY FOR TEEN MORRISVILLE 101 | |
Registration is now open for Teen Morrisville 101! Teen Morrisville 101 is a FREE resident academy for teens (grades 9-12) interested in local government. It will feature hands-on learning with multiple Town departments, and includes a graduation ceremony at a Morrisville Town Council meeting. Learn more and
register today at bit.ly/TeenMSV101
Tentative dates are:
• Wednesday, May 8: 4-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 15: 4-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 22: 4-6 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 29: 4-6 p.m.
While the program is open to all high school students, preference will be given to those who live in Morrisville. Registration is open until Friday, April 26.
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BREAKING NEWS AND IMPORTANT UPDATES | |
MARCH IS WOMENS HISTORY MONTH! | |
My Womens’ History Message:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1137006773961478
Learn more at womenshistorymonth.gov.
Each year, March is designated #WomensHistoryMonth. Since 1991, presidents have proclaimed the month as a time to celebrate contributions made by women throughout the course of American history.
During this month, I will be sharing Women Pioneers during Women’s History Month and will also be visiting Woman owned businesses.
The Theme of this year’s month is Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, so we want to highlight women leaders who fought for a more just world along with other women leaders in STEM, innovation, arts, politics, business and other areas!
I will be sharing the Women First Trailbalzers in my next newsletter!
Remember, International Women’s Day is March 8th! Lets continue to accelerate progress!
Send me your ideas!
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Insights from Moni Singh: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/230022060133492
This week, I wanted to highlight Women in Stem! I want to thank Moni Singh, CEO of Stem4Kids for sharing her insights with me and these iconic female STEM icons. I will share her Radio Nyra Interview in next newsletter!
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Katherine Johnson
The mathematician behind several milestone NASA missions including: launching the first U.S astronaut in space, Alan B. Shepard, Jr, the first U.S. astronaut to orbit Earth, John Glenn, and sending the first three men to the Moon aboard Apollo 11.
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Marie Brown
The inventor of the first home security system. Her invention was inspired by the crime rate in her neighborhood together with how long it took the police to arrive in her neighborhood.
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Lynn Conway
Her text book, introduction to VLSI Systems, became the foundational text for chip designers used in nearly 120 universities by 1983.
Uma Chowdry - who led DuPont's research effort in ceramic superconducting materials leading to over 20 patents and 50 publications.
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Alexa Canady
The first female African-American neurosurgeon in the United States.
Virginia Holsinger whose research led to the development of milk substitutes for lactose intolerant people using whey and soy.
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WOMEN OWNED SMALL BUSINESS VISITS | |
Mar 16- Holi Celebration!
From 12 to 3 pm at Cedar Fork Community Center!
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Mar 23- Green Day
From 8am to 12pm at Church Street Park
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From 5pm to 7pm at Morrisville Community Park
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April 19– Movie in the Park
8pm at Morrisville Community Park
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From 9am to 3pm. Space is limited. Register now!
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WPTF Wake County Round Up SHOW!
Join me every week for a new show I am hosting, The Wake County Round Up Show on WPTF Radio! If you are a Wake County leader and interested in being on the show, please email me at sr@steverao.com!
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WPTF WAKE COUNTY ROUND UP SHOW | |
Join me every week for a new show I am hosting, The Wake County Round Up Show on WPTF Radio!
This weekend, we will have Morrisville Deputy Manager Giselle Rodriquez on the Language Collaborative, Town of CIO Rick Ralph on Smart Cities and Karen Morant from the Western Wake Human Services Center!
If you are a Wake County leader and interested in being on the show, please email me at sr@steverao.com!
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HELP US BUILD OUR APP AT MORRISDEAS.COM | |
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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 Morrisville Central - the Town’s mobile app.
MorrIdeas is a nationwide Hackathon for ages 13+. Submissions are currently being accepted until Monday, April 1. View the problem, submission details, FAQs, prizes and more at morrideas.hackerearth.com.
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I wanted to wish all of our Muslim brothers and sisters a very Happy Ramadan.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance for Muslims around the world. It is considered the holiest month, commemorating the time when the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
During Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset as a form of spiritual discipline, self-control, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. The pre-dawn meal before fasting begins is called "Suhoor," and the meal to break the fast at sunset is known as "Iftar." The fast includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sinful behavior during daylight hours.
Besides fasting, Ramadan is a time for increased prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. Muslims believe that during this month, the gates of heaven are open, and the devils are chained, allowing for increased spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.
The conclusion of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive day of prayers, feasting, and giving to charity. It is a time for family and community gatherings, and Muslims express gratitude for the blessings they have received throughout the month.
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WHY DO WE CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK'S DAY? | |
St. Patrick's Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, is a cultural and religious holiday honoring St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While it originated as a religious feast day commemorating the arrival of Christianity in Ireland and the death of St. Patrick, it has evolved into a worldwide celebration of Irish culture, heritage, and identity.
Traditionally, St. Patrick's Day was observed as a quiet religious holiday in Ireland, with attending church services and feasting. However, over time it has transformed into a festive occasion marked by parades, wearing green attire, Irish music and dance performances, and the consumption of traditional Irish food and drinks.
The color green, shamrocks, leprechauns, and the Celtic cross are all symbols commonly associated with St. Patrick's Day. Parades featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and dancers are a hallmark of the celebration, particularly in cities with large Irish populations such as Dublin, New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Sydney.
In addition to its cultural significance, St. Patrick's Day has become a commercialized holiday, with businesses capitalizing on the festivities by selling themed merchandise and hosting special events.
Overall, St. Patrick's Day serves as a joyful celebration of Irish culture and heritage, bringing people of all backgrounds together to revel in the spirit of camaraderie and merriment.
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NC PRIMARY COUNCIL OF STATE RESULTS! | |
For all results, please visit https://er.ncsbe.gov/?election_dt=03/05/2024&county_id=28&office=ALL&contest=0 (I will updates us on more races in next newsletter)
North Carolina's Council of State is composed of 10 elected officials that are part of the executive branch. Josh Stein and Mark Robinson won their gubernatorial primary election.
Likewise, Jeff Jackson won the Democratic primary for attorney general and will face Dan Bishop in November.
Here are the results for the other eight Council of State races:
- Wesley Harris won the Democratic primary for state treasurer. Harris received endorsements from former U.S. Representative for District 4, David E. Price, and Rep. Valerie Foushee, (D-NC 4th). Brad Briner won the Republican primary election.
- Michele Morrow won the Republican primary for state superintendent of public instruction. Incumbent Catherine Truitt lost by just over 4 percentage points.
- Maurice (Mo) Green won the Democratic primary. Green received endorsements from previous North Carolina Govs. Jim Hunt and Bev Perdue.
- N.C. Sen. Rachel Hunt (D-Mecklenburg) won the Democratic primary. Hunt’s father, Jim Hunt, served North Carolina as governor for four terms.
- Hal Weatherman won the Republican primary. With 11 candidates on the ballot, Weatherman won just under 20 percent of the
- Incumbent Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey won the Republican primary. Causey has been the insurance commissioner since 2017.
- oN.C. Sen. Natasha Marcus (D-Mecklenburg) won the Democratic primary. Marcus has previously served three terms as a North Carolina Senator.
- · Braxton Winston, the former mayor pro tem of the Charlotte City Council, was unopposed as the Democratic candidate.
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MORRISVILLE SMART CITY ALERT | |
My Message on Facility Vision: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/949723939830043
The Town of Morrisville announced today that it has been named a finalist in the IDC Government Insights’ seventh annual Smart Cities North America Awards (SCNAA) in the Smart Buildings category. The awards recognize the progress North American municipalities have made in executing Smart Cities projects, as well as provide a forum for sharing best practices to help accelerate Smart City development in the region.
As a next step in the nomination process, IDC invites the public to vote on the named finalists at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCNAA24. Voting will be open through Friday, March 8. Winners will be announced March 27 and honored at Smart Cities Connect being held May 7-10 in Raleigh. To learn more about the event, please visit https://spring.smartcitiesconnect.org.
Finalists in the SCNAA illustrate best practice examples of how forward-thinking municipalities are effectively leveraging technology and innovation to offer new services and economic opportunities and to meet the needs and expectations of residents. The Town of Morrisville was recognized for unprecedented progress in creating and sustaining smart city projects in the Smart Buildings category for the Facility Vision initiative.
What is Facility Vision?
Morrisville’s Facility Vision initiative was created to transform the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC) into a truly innovative smart building. The goal of Facility Vision is to deploy a network of IoT sensors to deliver data that will drive decisions for leadership, staff, and eventually residents of the Town. Room monitoring, vibration, and machine vision sensors have been deployed throughout the facility, enabling staff to gather anonymous data of room utilization and equipment usage, and also allows them to see facility operation at a glance. This data also enables staff to concentrate on better serving the community, while allowing leadership to make more informed decisions on programming. In the near future, the Town will be launching a public-facing dashboard to provide residents with insights into how busy the facility is and which equipment is currently in use. This will also help provide predictive analytics across the MAFC, allowing residents to make more informed decisions about their visits.
Congratulations to our staff for continuing to execute our nationally recognized
smart city programs.
We are on our way to be the smartest city in the state.
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WHAT IS THE LANGUAGE COLLABORATIVE PROGRAM? | |
Language Access Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og4l75jFkyE
CBS 17 story: https://www.cbs17.com/video/morrisville-language-access-plan/9472301/
At this week’s Council meeting, Council approved and presented the Language Access Plan Resolution to Deputy Manager Giselle Rodriquez and our partners, Hini Vikas Mandal.
I continue to be inspired by the Town of Morrisville’s successful implementation of the Language Collaborative program, currently focusing on Hindi translation services for our Indian community.
The Town of Morrisville is a participant in the Local Government Language Access Collaborative, a one-year interactive course designed to build capacity for North Carolina local governments to communicate with residents in community languages. The Language Access Collaborative builds relationships between local governments and community partners, who must come together as a team to design a language access plan for their city, town, or county. Morrisville is joined in our efforts by Hindi Vikas Mandal (HVM), a community organization who is a part of the Hindu Society of North Carolina (HSNC). Because Morrisville’s demographics include approximately 46 percent Asian Indian residents, and Hindi is the most spoken language other than English, the Town selected Hindi as the language to address in our language access plan.
Monthly activities began in January 2023 and will take place until January 2024. The program features seven virtual workshops and two in-person events in Chapel Hill. Following the completion of the course, which is administered by Building Integrated Communities (BIC) and funded by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, the local government teams will be eligible for funding to assist with the implementation of their language access plan. At least one component of the language access plan must be completed by Jan. 2, 2025.
Communities joining Morrisville in the collaborative are Apex, Buncombe County, Concord, High Point, New Hanover County, Raleigh, Wilmington, and Winston-Salem.
Members of the Town of Morrisville staff involved in the course include Town Manager Martha Paige, Deputy Town Manager Brandon Zuidema, Assistant Town Manager Giselle Rodriguez-Villanueva, Director of Management Services Jeanne Hooks, and Communications & Outreach Director Wil Glenn. HVM participants are Program Coordinator Arundhati Baba and Program Coordinator Sushma Maheshwari.
In addition to the monthly virtual workshops, which include all the local governments and community partners, the Morrisville group has been regularly having lunch meetings between workshops to strategize and prepare important pieces for the language access plan.
This has also become a Town-wide effort as we assess our programs and services to identify a plan that brings value to the community and increases their access to key services.
In Morrisville, we embrace our cultural diversity. Language access is an essential step in our journey.
Last night, we voted to accept the Resolution supporting the Language Access Program.
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SEND US IDEAS ON THE TOWN BUDGET! | |
Please send us an email to towncouncil@townofmorrisville.org and also Let us know by taking the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Community Input Survey at
https://bit.ly/48vLbwe.
This is a quick poll for our community members to share some preliminary insight into your needs and wants as we look forward to the future.
Contact the Budget and Strategic Management Department at
MSVBudget@townofmorrisville.org.
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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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STEIN ONE STEP AWAY FROM GOVERNOR
I have known Josh Stein for 15 years, and am so excited that this graceful, kind, and brilliant man, is only one step away from being the Governor of North Carolina. Josh will be a Governor for all North Carolinians, and I believe has the most experience to lead this state from the day he is elected. Serving as the Chief Executive of the 8th Largest State in the Union is no easy task.
Josh is ready and this is not time for on the job training.
A major highlight of the week for me was to see him move forward in the next step towards becoming our next Governor.
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CONGRESSMAN NICKEL HOSTS UKRAINE WAR PRESS CONFERENCE
Last Friday, I participated in the Ukraine War Panel hosted by Congressman Nickel and the Ukranian Association! Apex Council Member Terry Maffey, myself, and leaders from the Ukranian community attended, and Congressman Nickel emphasized the importance of standing with Ukraine. The next two weeks are very important to bolster Congressional Support, so please reach out to your Congressional and Senate Representatives.
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BISHOP JOHN D PERRY INSTALLED AS NEW PASTOR OF PLEASANT GROVE CHURCH
Mayor Cawley and I were honored to attend the Installation Ceremony of Bishop John D. Perry at the Pleasant Grove Church in Cary. We are so grateful for the 25 years of service to the church and community from the outgoing Pastor Classy Preston!
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RALEIGH CHAMBER SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT
I enjoyed attending the Raleigh Chamber Sustainability Conference last Monday. It was a very informative conference, and I really enjoyed the FireSide Chat with Kevin McLaughlin from Duke Energy along with insightsshared from leaders at Lenovo and Met Life and other business and community leaders. A special thanks to Adrienne Cole and the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce Team, all of the sponsors and community leaders who made this summit and informative and engaging conversation on how we move forward in our journey towards a net zero carbon future.
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FIRE DEPARTMENT STRATEGIC PLAN
Over the next few months, The Morrisville Fire Department is developing their next strategic plan to cover 2024-2029. There are two main parts to the plan. The first one is community feedback. The second is when our members come together and develop the Fire Department's mission statement, core values, and our next set of goals/objectives/initiatives.
Last Wednesday, I attended our community feedback session along with Mayor Cawley, Council Member Liz Johnson, Mayor Pro Tem Garimella and other community members. This meeting allowed the Fire Department to gather key feedback on how well we are doing, what services the community values, and contribute to our SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis.
A special thanks to Chief Lozinsky and his team for organizing this event.
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JP MORGAN CHASE HOLI EVENT AT CHEENI
On Wednesday, Komal and I attended the JP Morgan Chase Holi event, hosted at Cheeni Indian Cuisine in Durham. I was honored to be the Chief Guest, and we had many community leaders in attendance. I will share my remarks in my next newsletter, but basically, I told everyone that there could not be a better time than now, than to celebrate the beginning of Spring and renewal and good over evil. I also reflected on the transformation our Indian Community is bringing to North Carolina!
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PRODUCTIVE COUNCIL MEETING!
Retirement Recognition of Captain Donald Rackley – Council and Fire Chief Nathan Lozinsky recognized Fire Captain Donald Rackley’s retirement. Captain Rackley has provided leadership to the Fire Department with courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the safety of Morrisville. Council thanks him for his guidance and for being a true hero, not just in emergencies, but every day. We wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.
Recognizing Community Police Academy Graduates – Council and Police Chief Pete Acosta Recognized eight graduates of the Community Police Academy. The graduates can now help bridge the gap between the public Morrisville Police. We look forward to seeing how they will use their knowledge to make a positive impact in Morrisville’s Community.
Proclamation Recognizing “Creek Week” – Town Council recognized March 16-24 as Creek Week in the Town of Morrisville and presented the proclamation to Stormwater Manager Ben Mills. By working together, communities can better protect their waterways as local creeks and streams are essential for recreation, wildlife habitat, and clean drinking water. This proclamation encourages residents to participate in the week's events including a stream clean-up, educational programs, and a 5k run being held March 17.
Proclamation Recognizing “North Carolina Arbor Day”– Town Council recognized March 22nd, 2024, as North Carolina Arbor Day in Morrisville and presented the proclamation to Public Works Director Jeffery Brown. It highlights the importance of trees for preventing soil erosion, regulating temperature, purifying air, providing wildlife habitat, and offering other economic benefits. The Town of Morrisville, committed to environmental responsibility, will plant over 200 trees at the Morrisville Community Park to expand the town's tree canopy. Town Council encourages residents to celebrate Arbor Day and support tree protection efforts.
Proclamation Recognizing “Recognizing Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month” – Town Council recognized March 2024 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month in Morrisville. It was presented to Ms. Charlene Cowell, Executive Director of the Bleeding Disorders Foundation of North Carolina. The Council supports a stronger community for those with bleeding disorders and encourages the public to educate themselves about complications and disabilities related to bleeding disorders.
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SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY VISITS | |
THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE MAR11- MAR13 | |
Morrisville Holi Festival March 16
Join us on Saturday, March 16, from 12 – 3 p.m., at the Cedar Fork Community Center (1050 B Town Hall Dr.) as we celebrate Holi, the ancient Hindu festival marking the end of winter and welcoming the spring season.
The Festival is free, and will feature dancing, Holi powders, artisan vendors and food for purchase. Music will be provided by DJ Ronak. Shuttles will be available at Iron Mountain (826 Church Street) and at Church Street Park (5800 Cricket Pitch Way).
Shuttles will be available the entire event and will run for 30 minutes after the event ends. There will be NO parking available at Cedar Fork Community Center or Cedar Fork Elementary School. For more information click here.
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MSC Trip to Rudy Theatre Registration Open
Join the Morrisville Senior Center on March 14, for a trip to the Rudy Theatre in Selma, NC. The theatre will be showcasing its Easter Jubilee Review from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Transportation will be provided by the Morrisville Senior Center. The cost is $32 (residents) and $43 (non-residents). To register click here
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MSC St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon Registration Open
Visit the Morrisville Senior Center (4117 Davis Dr.) for a St. Patrick's Day
Luncheon on Friday, March 15, from 1-3 p.m. This is a time to socialize with friends and enjoy lunch! Pre-registration is required. The cost is $15 (residents) and $18 (non-residents). To register click here.
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MorrIdeas Hackathon for Teens and Adults Accepting Submissions Until April 1
MorrIdeas is an online competition that is looking for fresh ideas from across the nation while solving problems the Town is tackling. The Town will be hosting a Hackathon meant to encourage usage of Morrisville Central, the Town's go-to source of information, through creating a gamification system that aims to blend the digital and physical worlds. MorrIdeas wants help from the public in designing, coding, or inspiring The Town on what the app should entail.
Submissions are currently being accepted until April 1 and there will be a local competition held on April 27. For more information or to submit your idea, please visit the MorrIdeas site.
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Yoga Roots Registration Open March 14
Yoga Roots opens for registration on March 14 (residents) and March 16 (non-residents). Yoga roots will run from April 4 – May 9 and is for kids ages 10-14. This class explores the deeper benefits of a yoga practice and meets at The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center on Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:20 p.m. The cost is $37 (residents) and $48 (non-residents).
To register click here.
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Family Tree Yoga Registration Opens March 16
Family Tree Yoga opens for registration on March 16 (residents) and March 18 (non-residents) and will run from April 6 - May 11. Family tree yoga is a perfect time for busy families to connect with each other! The class is reserved for children ages 5-9 with a parent or guardian. Class meets on Saturdays from 2 to 2:50 p.m. The cost is $37 (residents) and $48 (non-residents).
To register click here.
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Community Fire Academy Registration Open
Have you ever dreamed about being a firefighter? Do you want to learn more about what the Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department does? The Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department will give you an opportunity to test your abilities at our Community Fire Academy on Saturday, April 6, at Morrisville Fire Station No. 1 (200 Town Hall Drive). This free opportunity is limited to 20 people, and participants must be at least 18 years old.
Firefighters-for-a-day will go through some classroom sessions from 9 a.m. to noon, enjoy a provided lunch, and then get challenged with hands-on firefighting activities from 1-3 p.m.
Register here by April 2. For more information, contact Senior Administrative Specialist Bill Granger, at wgranger@morrisvillenc.org or 919-463-6931.
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Wake Transit Work Plan Open for Public Comment Until March 26
A new Wake Transit Work Plan is developed annually with two distinct features. First, there is the allocation of funds to specific new and continued operating and capital projects in the upcoming fiscal year. Second, the Draft Work Plan includes the Multi-Year Investment Program and the Capital Improvement Plan which provide a look ahead at how Wake Transit revenues are anticipated to be spent through FY30.
In FY25, approximately $45.6 million has been allocated for operational expenditures and nearly $197 million will support a variety of capital projects. A few highlights include three new transit routes beginning service, numerous existing routes expanding to serve more people, bus stop and station improvements, and the expansion of existing safety and security measures.
Input from community members and other Wake Transit stakeholders is vital to the planning process. Public comment is welcome here until March 26.
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Volunteers Needed for Morrisville Creek Week
With the support of the North Carolina Clean Water Education Partnership (NC CWEP) and the Town of Morrisville's Stormwater Division, the Town of Morrisville will once again celebrate NC CWEP’s Regional Creek Week program March 16-24, with fun, informative activities that will help to educate our community about reducing stormwater pollution and the importance of keeping our waterways clear and clean.
Register to be a volunteer at https://bit.ly/CW24Volunteer for the following:
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Stormwater Runoff 5K: We’re celebrating our waterways with a 5K on March 17. Volunteers will help with registration, water, parking, set-up, and more.
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Drain Marking: Volunteers work with drain marking leaders to mark drains throughout the week at designated locations.
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Stream Cleans: Hosted by one of our stewardship groups, stream cleans are done to help preserve and protect our community’s waterways.
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Spring League Coaches Needed
Morrisville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources is looking for volunteer coaches for the upcoming spring season! Volunteer coaches are needed for baseball, softball, volleyball and junior basketball. If you are interested in coaching, please contact athletics@townofmorrisville.org.
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Creek Week Volunteer Registration Open
With the support of the North Carolina Clean Water Education Partnership (NC CWEP) and the Town of Morrisville's Stormwater Division, the Town of Morrisville will once again celebrate NC CWEP’s Regional Creek Week program March 16-24, with fun, informative activities that will help to educate our community about reducing stormwater pollution and the importance of keeping our waterways clear and clean. Events for the week will include volunteer stream cleans and litter pickups by Morrisville stream stewardship groups and installation of markers on stormwater drains at various locations around Town. Check the Creek Week webpage for more information and a complete schedule of events when it becomes available. To register to volunteer for Creek Week, please click here.
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Creek Week 5K Registration Open
This year, Creek Week will also include a Stormwater Runoff 5K on Sunday, March 17, at Cedar Fork District Park (228 Aviation Pkwy.), to help educate the public and focus attention on stormwater issues, especially the importance of keeping stormwater clean. Get more information and register to run here.
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Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program Registration Open
Get Certified, Morrisville! Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
Certification is two steps:
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Online Training: Now- April 3 (12 hours of classes—your own pace, at your convenience)
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In-Person, Hands-on Skills Training: April 24-28, 2024
Click here to learn more and register.
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Pop-Up Dog Park Registration Open
Registration is now open for the pop-up dog parks going on this spring/summer at the Morrisville Community Park (1520 Morrisville Pkwy.). The dates are April 21, May 5 & 19 and June 2. The dog parks will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Registration is free, but we will require proof of vaccination. Register to attend here.
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Cybersecurity One-Day Class March 22
The Town of Morrisville, in partnership with Norwich University, is hosting a one-day class on Internet of Things (IoT) security on March 22 at the Historic Christian Church (222 Church St.). The class will be free to members of the community. This National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium (NCPC) training course is developed and delivered by Norwich University Applied Research Institutes. For full details and to register click here.
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Bridge Access Closure at Cedar Fork District Park
The bridge access to fields 6 and 7 at Cedar Fork District Park (228 Aviation Pkwy.) is currently closed until further notice. These fields can still be accessed by using Hatcher Creek Greenway.
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Temporary Traffic Signal Installation at Morrisville Carpenter Rd./Old Savannah Dr. Intersection
Beginning March 11, the Town of Morrisville will install traffic signals and associated improvements at the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Old Savannah Drive. As part of this work, there will be short-term street lane and sidewalk closures near all four corners of the intersection. Please contact Capital Projects Manager Kitty Thomas at 919-463-6917 for questions or more information.
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Morrisville Parkway Access Management Study Enters Phase 2
Through a partnership with the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO), an access management study has been funded to evaluate the two-mile section of Morrisville Parkway between Davis Drive and NC 54/Chapel Hill Road. To make travel safer for vehicles and pedestrians, the corridor will be evaluated for general safety improvements associated with access management.
The public is invited to review and provide comments on the preliminary recommendations of the Morrisville Parkway Access Management Study now through April 7. To participate in Phase 2 of engagement please click here.
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Greenway Maintenance March 11-13
There will be maintenance happening at Crabtree Creek Greenway and Hatcher Creek Greenway March 11-13. There may be flagging operations in place and visitors should expect delays due to heavy equipment in the area, but we do not foresee any greenway closures at this time.
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Camp Cedar Fork Slots Still Available for Ages 12-14
Limited spots are available for Camp Cedar Fork Senior, ages 12-14. Cedar Fork Community Center (CFCC, 1050 B Town Hall Dr.) will host nine weeks of summer camp beginning the week of June 17 and running through the week of Aug. 16. Camp sessions are scheduled Monday to Friday, running from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Camp days will be filled with arts & crafts, games, park trips, pool visits and exciting field trips! Registration is on a weekly basis. The cost per week is $168 for residents and $218 for non-residents. A $50 deposit is due at the time of registration, which will contribute towards the overall program cost. Register here or in-person at CFCC
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Water Disinfection Change Starts Feb. 28
Each year, the Cary/Apex Water Treatment Facility (the source of water for Morrisville residents) temporarily suspends the use of ammonia in the water treatment process. This follows the state’s recommendation that all water systems that use chloramines (a compound of chlorine and ammonia) for disinfection temporarily switch to chlorine only. During this process, they also release water from fire hydrants to help ensure chlorine flows through the entire system. These short-term changes are an important part of maintaining our water system and help ensure our award-winning water remains safe.
If you use water for kidney dialysis, fish aquariums, and other chlorine sensitive uses, be aware that from Feb. 28, to several days after April 11, the water may contain chlorine or a mixture of both chlorine and ammonia. While the water may have a more distinct chlorine odor during this time, it remains safe to drink. Have a question? Visit carync.gov/waterchange or call 311 for more information.
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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.-noon every Saturday at the Healthy Food Hub, 280 Town Hall Drive.
Beginning this Saturday, CompostNow.org will start 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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TTGA Mahar Shivatri Event was so much fun! | | |
Proud of Justice Allison Riggs for her win! | | |
Hanging out with our State Auditor at the NC Dem Victory Party! | | |
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OTHER NORTH CAROLINA NEWS | |
DURHAM ENDS SHOTSPOTTER!
On Monday night, the Durham City Council voted to not bring back ShotSpotter technology.
The vote failed in a 4-2 vote, with Mayor Leonardo Williams and Mayor Pro Tempore Mark-Anthony Middleton.
City leaders were considering entering a new three-year contract with the gunfire detection technology.
The city’s one-year pilot of the gunshot detection system ended in December, but it's back on the table for discussion with a $650,000 price tag.
City councilors looked at data from the police department to determine if they wanted to sign a three-year deal.
City Council members against the program said the data didn't show it is useful to justify the cost, and could be harmful to communities.
"ShotSpotter, even if it worked as intended, does not do the one thing the community is calling on us to do: prevention," Council member Chelsea Cook said.
Middleton said ShotSpotter was never intended to stop or reduce gun violence.
"No one said that," he explained. "That argument was created, and then refuted, as part of the discussion."
Read more at https://www.wral.com/story/durham-city-leaders-to-consider-shotspotter-contract/21311835/
WAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS CLEAR BAG POLICY IN EFFECT/EXPECT A TAX INCREASE FOR SCHOOLS….
Starting Friday, new rules are going into place at Wake County schools to keep people safe at school events.
Also, keep in mind Wake County taxpayers will likely face a request this year for another $50 million increase in funding from the school system. School administrators said Friday they've already identified $44 million in funding needs this year because of required increases and the loss of federal COVID aid.
It's the first day for the district's new clear bag rule for spectators at sports and other large-scale gatherings for Wake high schools.
The intent of the clear bag rule is to deter people from bringing knives or other weapons to plays or sporting events or other extracurricular activities.
For students or parents coming to Friday night's basketball game, here's what that new rule looks like in practice:
- No traditional purses or bags. Bags must be clear.
- People and bags will be searched upon entry.
- Wristlets and diaper bags will still be allowed.
- Guests can also bring bags that are medically necessary - like containers for menstrual products or an oxygen tank.
- Exceptions may also be made for certain baby carriers, coats, blankets and seat cushions.
- People are otherwise limited to one clear bag that's 12 inches by 15 inches by 3 inches and one clutch or wristlet bag that's no more than 4 inches by 6 inches by 1 inch.
- No more backpacks or belt bags unless they are small and clear.
- The rule only applies to extracurricular events that would have spectators and not to the regular school day.
Read More at #
TRUITT WANTS TO OVERHAUL SCHOOLGRADING SYSTEM
On Monday, Catherine Truitt, superintendent of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), introduced her plan to overhaul the A-F accountability system for North Carolina public schools.
The current system grades North Carolina schools on an A-F scale with End-of-Grade test scores making up 80% of the school’s letter grade, and the other 20% comes from how the scores have improved compared to prior years. Truitt says the scoring should be more robust and give families a deeper level of information, offering a plan with four letter grades instead of one.
“They don’t know what a D actually says about their child’s school, or what an A says about their child’s school,” said Truitt in her opening statement on Monday. “So, we have an opportunity here to right this ship, to change how we define what a high-performing school is and what student success looks like. And that’s what we are excited to share with you all today.”
Truitt is requesting that lawmakers introduce legislation for a three-year pilot program starting this fall where volunteer district would run both the old model of accountability and her new one, comparing the results. Only the new model would be utilized in school districts in the third year. She and her team have identified three primary problems with the current system: She says there is no meaningful accountability for schools at either the state or federal level, no support for low-performing schools, and parents don’t know what the grades mean.
Read More at https://www.carolinajournal.com/truitt-introduces-plan-to-overhaul-school-grading-system/#:~:text=The%20new%20grading%20system%20wo
NC SUPREME COURT HEARS ORAL ARGUMENTS ON LEANDRO
On Thursday, Feb. 22, the N.C. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the latest hearing of the long-running Leandro cases on public education funding.
In 1997, the state supreme court ruled in Leandro I that every student has a constitutional right to a sound, basic education. Then, in 2004, the state supreme court decided in Hoke County Board of Education v. North Carolina — or Leandro II — that the state is responsible for staffing each classroom with a competent teacher, hiring a competent principal for every school and providing adequate resources to ensure an equitable learning environment.
Thursday's hearing was the fifth time the Hoke County case has been presented to the state supreme court.
After a court order in 2019, an independent consultant company WestEd recommended North Carolina spend $6.8 billion in total over the course of eight years. In 2020, Judge David Lee ordered the state to create a plan to improve the quality of public education. The state then submitted a Comprehensive Remedial Plan based on WestEd's recommendations.
When Lee ordered the legislature to report to the court on its implementation of the CRP and the legislature did not respond, Lee ordered the allocation of $1.7 billion from the state's general fund toward public education. In 2022, the N.C. Supreme Court upheld a lower court's decision to allocate about $1.7 billion from North Carolina's general funds to N.C. public schools — just three days before the court flipped to a 5-2 Republican majority in the 2022 elections. The new 5-2 majority decided last March along party lines to accept new filings in the case following a request from Republican state legislative leaders.
Read more at https://www.americanprogress.org/article/how-inflation-reduction-act-electric-vehicle-incentives-are-driving-a-u-s-manufacturing-renaissance/?fbclid=IwAR1Ktt
CASINOS WILL NOT BE A PART OF BUDGET. BERGER FOLDS
Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) rarely loses a hand in the political games that play such a prominent role in the work of North Carolina General Assembly.
But on Tuesday, Berger seemed to abide by the admonition in the famous Kenny Rogers’ song, “The Gambler”: “You gotta know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em.”
At an evening joint appearance with House Speaker Tim Moore, the Senate leader announced that he is, for the time being, abandoning his full court press to greatly expand casino gambling in the state.
Last week when the most conservative members of his own party balked at including four casinos in the state budget, an idea was hatched to pass a standalone bill tying Medicaid expansion to the casino legislation.
Casino supporters believed the lure of Medicaid expansion would win over enough Democrats to make up for the Republicans who were willing to vote “no.”
Democrats were not swayed. On Monday, the minority party in each chamber issued strongly worded statements of opposition. By Tuesday afternoon, Governor Roy Cooper called out the backroom casino plan.
“The Republican supermajority is breaking their promise to expand Medicaid and instead are using it to extort a shady, sole source casino deal that many of their own members find suspicious,” said Cooper. “Democratic legislators are rightfully disgusted and strongly oppose this scheme.”
In a late-night press conference at the legislature, Berger conceded the casinos and video lottery terminals (VLTs) would not advance as outlined under House Bill 149.
“Medicaid expansion will still be contingent on the budget becoming law,” said Berger. “The conference budget will not include any of the VLTs or the rural tourism districts. We think this is the best, the most prudent way for us to move forward.”
Asked whether the announcement meant no casinos at all or just not in the budget bill, Berger was resigned.
“Not in the budget, I do not see us voting on those at any point in coming weeks.”
Read More at https://ncnewsline.com/2023/09/20/senate-leader-folds-his-hand-casinos-will-not-be-part-of-north-carolinas-budget/
COUNCIL OF STATE FILINGS!
Scores of candidates filed for nearly a dozen high-profile elected positions in North Carolina where the incumbents aren't running in 2024 because of redistricting, retirements or term limits.
The two-week candidate filing period for next year's elections ended at noon Friday at the State Board of Elections and at all 100 county boards. Primaries will be held March 5 to whittle down the field where multiple candidates are running for their
party's nominations.
Six of the 10 statewide elected officials making up the Council of State — with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper heading the list — and five of the 14 members of the U.S. House delegation aren't running again or are seeking new positions.
The state constitution prevents Cooper from running for a third consecutive term. Nearly a dozen people across four parties filed candidacy papers to succeed him, according to a state elections board list. They include Democrats Attorney General Josh Stein and former Supreme Court Justice Mike Morgan and Republicans Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, State Treasurer Dale Folwell and attorney Bill Graham.
Missing from the elections board list was former state GOP Sen. Andy Wells, who had announced his candidacy for governor months ago. He didn't immediately respond to a text message seeking comment.
State Auditor Beth Wood and Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson also aren't seeking reelection. Wood prepared to resign on Friday from the auditor's position that she has held in 2009. Cooper's choice to finish out her term, Jessica Holmes, is an auditor candidate next year.
For lieutenant governor, 15 people signed up to succeed Robinson, including four current or former state legislators. Filing for the post minutes before the noon deadline was Mark H. Robinson, a Sampson County Democrat who has been running for several months.
Mark H. Robinson, a former Navy officer, said Friday that his campaign isn't designed to cause voter confusion with the other Mark Robinson, saying he has believed for decades that he would run for statewide office.
While the two names won't appear on the same primary ballot, they could if both advance to the general election, albeit for different positions.
"I'm not trying to confuse anyone," Mark H. Robinson, 62, told reporters. "I think this is what my calling is, and that is to help as many people in the state of North Carolina before I die."
A leading candidate must get more than 30% of the primary vote to win the nomination outright. Otherwise runoffs are possible later in the spring.
Three of the five members of Congress who aren't running are Democratic Reps. Jeff Jackson, Kathy Manning and Wiley Nickel. Each of them said it was futile to seek reelection given that the redrawing of the congressional map by the Republican-controlled General Assembly this fall makes their districts lean strongly Republican. Jackson is now running for attorney general.
Fourteen Republicans alone are seeking the GOP nomination in Nickel's now-reconfigured 13th District, which includes part of Raleigh but stretches north to rural counties on the Virginia border and points south.
The Republicans not running a Bishop, who is also running for state attorney general, and Rep. Patrick McHenry.
Six Republicans are running for the 6th District seat currently held by Manning. The GOP field includes former Rep. Mark Walker, 2022 congressional candidate Bo Hines and Addison McDowell, a recent entry who received former President Donald Trump's endorsement.
Six GOP candidates also are seeking the nomination in the south-central 8th District that Bishop is leaving and five are running for the nomination in McHenry's reconfigured 10th District, which now ranges from Winston-Salem to counties north and west of Charlotte.
State House Speaker Tim Moore is one of three Republicans seeking the GOP nomination in the 14th District that will stretch from Charlotte west to foothills counties. Jackson is the current 14th District representative.
Republicans appeared all but assured to win the 6th District and 3rd District seats because Democrats failed to field candidates in either race. GOP Rep. Greg Murphy, the 3rd District incumbent, currently only faces a Libertarian challenger.
One state Supreme Court and three Court of Appeals seats, and all 170 General Assembly seats also will be on ballots. Republicans currently hold narrow veto-proof majorities in both the House and Senate.
Several legislators had already announced that they wouldn't seek reelection. Late additions to that list on Friday were Senate Majority Whip Jim Perry of Lenoir County and first-term Democratic Sen. Mary Wills Bode of Granville County.
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LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES | |
1. Israel’s ambassador to America, Michael Herzog, rebuked Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate majority leader and America’s highest-ranking Jewish politician. Mr Schumer had called on Israel to hold fresh elections as its government “no longer fits the needs of Israel” and said that the government of Binyamin Netanyahu tolerates too many civilian deaths in Gaza. Mr Herzog called his remarks “counterproductive”. There is growing unease in Washington over Israel’s conduct. President Joe Biden has said Mr Netanyahu is “hurting Israel more than helping it” , but has not called for his replacement.
2. Ariel Henry, Haiti’s embattled prime minister, tendered his resignation after talks with regional leaders in Jamaica. Mr Henry was unable to return to Haiti following a trip to Kenya, after gangs took control of Port-au-Prince, the capital. The unelected Mr Henry has run the country since the assassination of Jovenel Moïse, the president, in 2021. He said he would stand down after the installation of a transition council, but some gang leaders have suggested they want a role in power-sharing.
3. A ship carrying nearly 200 tonnes of food set sail for Gaza from Cyprus. The vessel’s departure is the first step towards opening a sea route to deliver desperately needed aid to the besieged enclave. Earlier Israel launched further air strikes against targets in Lebanon. The Israel Defence Forces said the action was retaliation for attacks by Hizbullah, an Iran-backed militant group.
4. President Joe Biden proposed a $7.3trn budget for the coming fiscal year. The plan proposes lower costs for child care and housing, among other things, funded by higher taxes on corporations and the rich. But Mr Biden’s proposal will probably not pass the House of Representatives, which is controlled by Republicans.
5. The governor of the Bank of Japan, Ueda Kazuo, said that the Japanese economy is recovering despite some difficulties. He cited a “weakness in some household spending data” but noted that business investment is increasing steadily. Traders widely interpreted Mr Ueda’s remarks as offering a marginally less positive view of Japan’s economy than expected, leading the yen to fall slightly.
6. China criticised India for opening a tunnel near the countries’ shared border. Last week Narendra Modi, India’s prime minister, inaugurated the tunnel in a part of the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh that is claimed by China. India said the tunnel would be used by its army. But China said India “has no right” to build infrastructure in what it called the “southern region of Tibet”.
7. John Barnett, a former Boeing employee and whistleblower, was found dead in a hotel car park in Charleston, South Carolina. Police are investigating the death, but the coroner said Mr Barnett died from a “self-inflicted” wound. During his 32 years at Boeing Mr Barnett often raised concerns about the planemaker’s production standards. After retirement, he sued the company for hampering his career.
8 Airbnb said it would ban indoor security cameras in its listed properties. The short-term rental firm had allowed cameras in “common areas” such as corridors and sitting rooms, as long as their presence was disclosed. Some landlords used them to monitor illegal parties and other contractual infractions. But guests complained about violations of privacy.
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Figure of the day: $13,000, the fee that Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, a Houston-based firm, charges to send people’s cremated ashes to the moon. Read the full story. | |
March 21 and March 22 UNC Clean Tech Summit!
https://ie.unc.edu/events/cleantech/https://ie.unc.edu/events/cleantech/
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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.
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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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