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MEMORIAL DAY AND NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK EDITION:

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

May 26, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes.

MY MEMORIAL DAY MESSAGE: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/438496612129730




Memorial Day-Town Offices Closed


Town of Morrisville administrative offices will be closed May 27, 2024, in observance of Memorial Day. Police, fire, and rescue services will remain available.

For life-threatening or in-progress emergencies, call 911. Residential trash and recycling service will continue on the regular schedule.

AI SUMMIT AND FIRESIDE CHAT WITH JOHN CHAMBERS


I wanted to thank everyone who attended our AI Summit and Fireside Chat with John Chambers last week. I will share more insights on this event, particularily takeaways in my next newsletter and also WRAL Tech Wire Blogs.


A special thanks to Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, Secretary of Technology Jim Weaver, and SBA Director Allen Thomas, who shared very valuable insights with all of us, along with a very engaging panel led by RIOT CEO, Tom Snyder.


In addition, it has been such a busy month but I wanted to also focus on Asian American Heritage month and Cancer Research Month next week in my final newsletter of the month. I do want to thank the Asian American immigrants who have contributed so much to the tapestry of American Democracy. We will celebrate them next week!

FIRESIDE CHAT LIVE STREAM AND TECHWIRE ARTICLES


Live Stream on Facebook (John Chambers interview): https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/296991626794887


WPTF Radio Stream (John Chambers interview): https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-afternoon-news/1489753/


WRAL Tech Wire articles: 

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/10/27/john-chambers-ai-innovation-going-one-on-one-with-a-tech-legend/

SPORTS ALERT


Xander Schauffele wins PGA Championship!

French Open Starts! https://www.rolandgarros.com/en-us/ Will this be NADAL's last? May 26- June 10!

Don Waddell Resigns, Tursky takes over. https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/40210875/don-waddell-steps-president-gm-carolina-hurricanes

MEDIA ALERT

Join me tomorrow at 4 pm on Radio Nyra for our Leaders Interview with Vimal Kolappa! 99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM! www.radionyra.com!

BREAKING NEWS AND IMPORTANT UPDATES

UNC System guts DEI Efforts.   https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/23/us/unc-dei-policy-vote-reaj/index.html  (SEE NC NEWS)

NC GOP to negotiate compromise on Masking Bill.  https://www.wunc.org/politics/2024-05-22/nc-house-rejects-senates-proposed-mask-restriction-bill

Wake County Presents $2 billion Budget! https://www.wral.com/story/wake-county-budget-property-tax-increases-likely-public-schools-could-get-49-million-increase/21416984/


Ireland, Norway and Spain to Recognize Palestinian State. https://apnews.com/article/norway-palestinian-state-ddfd774a23d39f77f5977b9c89c43dbc

Iranian President Ebraim Raisi dies in helicopter crash https://apnews.com/live/helicopter-iranian-president-crash

Nikki Haley will vote for Trump. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/22/nikki-haley-will-vote-for-trump-00159534

TOWN OF MORRISVILLE ALERTS

Town of Morrisville Budget Portal is now open! Give us input on the $59 million budget, which we were presented with last week. Public Hearing is at 6 pm on Tuesday, May 28th at the Council Meeting.


View Budget at https://www.morrisvillenc.gov/government/departments-services/budget/annual-



Budget Portal: https://www.morrisvillenc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2011/


Apply to our Town Advisory Committees! https://www.morrisvillenc.gov/government/resident-advisory-committees


AND MORRISVILLE COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND CLOSED MAY 31 FOR RENOVATIONS AND A NEW SMART SHUTTLE NODE TO WAKE COMPETITION CENTER! (SEE PARKS ALERTS AND THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE SECTIONS FOR DETAILS)

TEAM SRI LANKA VISITS MORRISVILLE

Refresh on our Cricket Journey in this WRAL article: https://wraltechwire.com/2022/02/11/morrisville-is-betting-that-cricket-the-sport-ignites-more-economic-growth/


Steve Rao WTPF Morning Show: https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-morning-show/1489099/


ABC 11: https://abc11.com/post/cricket-morrisville-town-leaders-upgrades-church-street-park/14848783/

CBS 17: https://www.cbs17.com/video/sri-lanka-cricket-team-visits-the-triangle/9723163/


Team Sri Lanka trained in Morrisville this week in preparation for the World Cup in June. It was amazing to watch the practices and meet some of the players and coaches at a reception, hosted by Sri Lankan Shaluka Perrera, including Pakistani World Cupper Aquib Javed! I continue to be amazed by our remarkable Cricket Journey in Morrisville. I want to thank all of the volunteers, the leaders of TCL, our Council, previous councils, and our Cricket Fans for all they have done to get us to this point! I enjoyed meeting the players and coaches at South Point Brewery for dinner  including Pakistani great, Aquin Javed! 


All of you were pioneers!


Moving forward, we will need at least $5 to $6 million in upgrades, an updated Broadcast system and drainage systems to accommodate more international tournaments, but who would have ever dreamt in 2015 that we would be here!



We will be the Cricket Capital of the United States! We are on our way!

REMEMBERING COL. HASMUKH PAREKH

Every Memorial Day, I take a moment to celebrate the life of my late father in law, Dr. Hasmukh Parekh, who served in in the United States Airforce alongside his wife, Dr. Ranjan Parekh, who resides in Morrisville.   They both retired as Colonels and I was always inspired by their service to our nation, leaving India to pursue their careers as physicians.


At his funeral service, he was given military honors, a twenty one gun salute, and my mother in law was presented the United States Flag with this message:


On behalf of the President of the United States and the Unites States Armed Forces, we give you this flag as a token of your husband's distinguished service to our nation.

 

His legacy lives on with his wife, Ranjan, his daughters, Komal and Preeti, and most certainly his grandchildren, Sonia, Rayan, and Shaya.

 

God Bless the United States of America.

WHY DO WE CELEBRATE MEMORIAL DAY?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties. Observed on the last Monday of May, it marks a solemn occasion to remember and pay tribute to the soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation.


History and Origins

Memorial Day originated after the American Civil War. It was initially known as Decoration Day, a time when the graves of fallen soldiers were decorated with flowers, flags, and wreaths. The practice of decorating graves dates back to ancient times, but in the U.S., it took on a new significance after the Civil War due to the large number of casualties.

 First Observance: The first recorded large-scale observance of Decoration Day took place on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery. General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance.

 Evolution to Memorial Day: Over the years, the day evolved to honor all American military personnel who died in all wars, not just the Civil War. The name gradually shifted from Decoration Day to Memorial Day, reflecting its broader purpose.


Traditions and Observances

Memorial Day is observed in various ways across the United States, including:

 Cemeteries: Many Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to honor those who have died in military service. Volunteers often place American flags on graves of military personnel in national cemeteries.

 Parades: Numerous cities and towns hold Memorial Day parades, featuring marching bands, military units, veterans, and various community organizations.

 Moment of Remembrance: At 3:00 PM local time, a National Moment of Remembrance is observed. This moment encourages Americans to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by military members.

 Family Gatherings: Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States, and many families gather for barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor activities.


Significance

Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the sacrifices made by the military. It is a time to reflect on the bravery and dedication of those who have given their lives to protect and defend the country. The holiday ensures that their sacrifices are remembered and honored by future generations.


Modern Observance

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to restore the solemn nature of Memorial Day and to remind Americans of its true purpose beyond the barbecues and sales. Efforts include educational programs, increased participation in remembrance activities, and initiatives like the "National Moment of Remembrance."


Overall Memorial Day remains a significant and meaningful day in the United States, dedicated to honoring the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

MY INSIGHTS ON MEMORIAL DAY

During this weekend and on Monday, we take time to honor the bravest and finest citizens of our nation, who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.


From the revolutionary war to the present day, our fallen soldiers, are an everlasting reminder that freedom is not only worth fighting for but dying for. These heroes gave their own lives so that our nation could long endure.


As we see Ukrainians fighting to save their Democracy, I was reminded of a trip to France a few years ago, when I visited the beaches of Normandy. Emotion took over as I saw with my own very eyes, where many of our Greatest Generation heroes died, to preserve freedom for the entire world. In many ways, these soldiers were our own Avengers, heroes who answered the call to their nation. What if there had never been soldiers in our nation? What if there were no soldiers in another universe? (Multiverse) Hitler would have taken over Europe, Dictatorship would have been the dominant form of government and millions around the world would not have the pleasure of living under the blanket of freedom! The world would have been a very different place!


I leave you with President Obama’s inspiring words at Arlington Cemetery on Memorial Day in 2016:


“A nation reveals itself not only by the people it produces, but by those it remembers. We do so not just by hoisting a flag, but by lifting up our neighbors. Not just by pausing in silence, but by practicing in our own lives the ideals of opportunity and liberty and equality that they fought for. We can serve others, and contribute to the causes they believed in, and above all, keep their stories alive so that one day, when he grows up and thinks of his dad, an American like David Wheeler can tell them, as well, the stories of the lives that others gave for all of us."


We will never forget them.

We will always remember them.

We will always be grateful for their sacrifices so that the great American Project can endure forever and be passed on to future generations.

May they forever rest in Peace. God Bless the United States.

AMERICAN WAR SOLDIER FATALITIES


  1. American Revolutionary War (1775-1783): Approximately 25,000
  2. War of 1812 (1812-1815): Approximately 15,000
  3. Mexican-American War (1846–1848): Approximately 13,000
  4. American Civil War (1861–1865): Approximately 620,000 to 750,000 (including both Union and Confederate soldiers)
  5. Spanish-American War (1898): Approximately 2,446
  6. World War I (1917–1908): Approximately 116,516
  7. World War II (1941–1945): Approximately 405,399
  8. Korean War (1950–1953): Approximately 36,570
  9. Vietnam War (1955–1975): Approximately 58,220
  10. Gulf War (1990–1991): Approximately 294
  11. War in Afghanistan (2001–2021): Approximately 2,461
  12. Iraq War (2003-2011): Approximately 4,431

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

View all Memorial Day Events and Deals at

https://triangleonthecheap.com/memorial-day-events-deals-triangle/


Join Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna on PBS Carolina at 8 pm this evening(May 26) for the National Memorial Day Concert from Washington D.C.

Town of Garner

The Town of Garner’s annual Memorial Day Observance takes place Monday, May 27, 2024 at 9:30 a.m., at the Garner Veterans Memorial at 921 Buffaloe Road, Garner. Guided tours of the Garner Veterans Memorial will be conducted before and after the event.

Town of Cary

The Town of Cary is holding a Memorial Day Remembrance on Monday, May 27th, 2024. It will take place at 2:30 p.m. at Veterans Freedom Park, 1517 N. Harrison Avenue, Cary. The event features patriotic music from the Cary Town Band and guest speakers from local veterans organizations. In additional a special Field of Flags will be at Veterans Freedom park all week.

VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS


I wanted to highlight a few Veteran organizations you can support:

NC Vet Biz

https://www.ncvetbiz.org/

I am proud to serve on the Board of NC Vet Biz Association. 

TOWN OF MORRISVILLE VETERANS MEMORIAL

For more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/morrisvilleveteranspark/. 

Enable America

For more information or to donate, please visit https://www.enableamerica.org/

North Carolina 4 Military Education (NC4ME)

Please visit www.nc4me.org

WAKE TECH MILITARY AND RESOURCE CENTER

For more information, please visit https://www.waketech.edu/student-services/military-veteran-programs/resource-center.

NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK

My Message on Public Works: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/471282545414710


National Public Works Week is an annual event celebrated in the United States to recognize the importance of public works and the contributions of public works professionals. It typically takes place during the third week of May. The purpose of the week is to raise awareness about the vital role that public works plays in the daily lives of communities and to highlight the efforts of those who design, build, operate, and maintain the infrastructure and facilities that serve the public. Keep in mind that President Roosevelt’s major investments in over 34,000 infrastructure projects led to the establishment of the Public Works Administration. The Works Progress Administration was also created to employ many workers!


We are now seeing billions of infrastructure investments in our country due to the bi partisan infrastructure act, and our Public Works employees are critically important

in how we can manage this infrastructure!


During National Public Works Week, various activities and events are organized to promote public works and engage the community. These may include open houses at public works facilities, educational programs in schools, public works-themed contests, equipment demonstrations, community service projects, and presentations about the importance of infrastructure and public works services.


The American Public Works Association (APWA) plays a significant role in coordinating and promoting National Public Works Week. The APWA is a professional association that represents public works professionals across the United States. They provide resources and materials to help communities and organizations celebrate the week effectively.

National Public Works Week serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of public works professionals who contribute to the overall quality of life in communities. It highlights the critical role of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water systems, parks, and public buildings, in supporting economic development, public safety, and environmental sustainability.



By recognizing National Public Works Week, communities and organizations can foster appreciation for the contributions of public works professionals and encourage investment in infrastructure and public works services.


Public Works are also First Responders!

CELEBRATING MORRISVILLE PUBLIC WORKS!


This year's theme is "Advancing Quality of Life for All," which shines a spotlight on the way public works professionals advance our quality of life—as a first responder and covering the maintenance, operation, and repair of Town-owned buildings, grounds, parks, athletic fields, recreation areas, fleet vehicles, contracted services, sustainability programs, rights-of-way, and streets. Our Public Works employees in Morrisville work hard every day to make sure that we have the best quality of life!


If you see someone from Morrisville Public Works this week, give them a wave and a huge thank you for keeping Morrisville a great place to live, work and play.

Learn more at morrisvillenc.gov/publicworks

#NPWW #AQOLFA

WHY DID I HOST AN AI SUMMIT WITH JOHN CHAMBERS?

https://wraltechwire.com/2024/05/14/tech-jedi-chambers-channels-his-insight-about-ai-strategy/


With Artificial Intelligence continuing to dominate conversations in our region, state and nation, I wanted to host an AI Summit, gathering local government and state leaders, start ups, and investors for a conversation on Artificial Intelligence and what it means for our economy, the future of work, and our nation.  


Who better to turn to for advice than one of Godfathers of the Internet Revolution, than my family friend and West Virginia brother, John Chambers, former CEO of Cisco Systems (CEO Venture Company JC2 Ventures)  During this hybrid event, we will also hear from NC Secretary of Technology Jim Weaver, and Secretary of State Elaine Marshall will be attending.  


During a virtual coffee with John a few months ago, he was sharing with me his perspectives on the cloud revolution and what we are seeing today with the acceleration of AI innovation. During the cloud revolution, many folks were concerned that jobs would be lost but John reminded me that other large players like Google, Amazon came into existence and we were able to put people in jobs where their skills were more valued.  

The economy grew and GDP continue to grow over this time while we also saw very significant increases in productivity. Companies like Fidelity Investments said they would only invest in companies with an Internet or Cloud strategy and this became the norm for Venture Capital investors, who looked at investing in companies with a cloud/internet strategy.    


John is once again seeing this movie play out again. He has invested in 3 AI Start ups, and they are now $1 billion unicorns. He is now asking all his portfolio companies to become AI Companies. He says AI is more than a productivity tool.   


Companies and organizations need to know where AI fits into their business models, customer service models and where to look for the the best place to begin with prime time applications. (Call Centers, Chatbots, is a good place to start) 


In other words, they need an AI Strategy. This made me think that state agencies, local governments, etc also need to be thinking about our AI Strategy as well. I wanted to bring together local government leaders, investors, start ups, and community leaders all together for an engaging discussion with John. Tom Snyder from RIOT will also be moderating a panel on how start ups are using AI along with getting some government perspectives. I know that Morrisville is considering using Generative AI for document searches, etc and we will be making investments in generative AI this budget.   


Finally, what is interesting, is that John is also advising Prime Minister Modi in India on Digital and Start Up Strategy. He sees Indian transforming into a start up nation and making strides and investments in their digital infrastructure and AI Innovation.   Last year, India had 81 unicorn start ups, surpassing China for the first time so we need to make sure we are not taking for granted that other nations will be looking to create jobs as well with their own strong start up ecosystems.   


In terms of jobs, we are going to see and are already seeing many jobs being displaced. We could see as much as 40% of all jobs we know of today gone in the next decade. Last year, IBM CEO said that they would eliminate over 8000 white collar jobs. John does believe that we can create over 15 million jobs globally, and many of these jobs will be in start ups, emerging tech areas like AI, robotics, etc. Nations like India see this as an opportunity so we need to move fast.  It will be very competitive moving forward.  With that being said, John also says that we need to have educational systems which are more flexible to train the workers of the future. We are seeing this already with our community colleges, but we need to move fast.    


Finally, we also need to talk about the dangers of AI, where there needs to be regulation and also to explore the ethical concerns that may come about. The AI could also be weaponized if it gets into the wrong hands….   (Deep Fakes, Drones in War, AI taking over defense systems)    


On a personal note, throughout much of my life, I have been so inspired by the story of John Chambers. His parents, Jack and June, both Doctors, were mentors to my parents when my dad was beginning his career in West Virginia as a surgeon. John was dyslexic and was told by many educators that he could never pursue a solid career. His family, his teachers never gave up on him and he has risen to be the CEO and Chairman of Cisco and now. 

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!





HELP US BUILD OUR APP AT MORRISDEAS.COM

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.

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.

SHOP LOCAL VISITS:

Mo's Barbershop: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1529664761178696


Bharat Bazaar: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/3606193546327763


Swagat: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/925301029159903


Game On Escape at Box Yard RTP: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/925301029159903


Buzzy Bakery at Box Tard RTP: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1047960956491671

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

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK

MORRISVILLE SECURES GRANT FOR DOG PARK!

Staff Secured a $250,000 OSBM Grant to support the Dog Park: Staff is pleased to share that after working with the office of Representative Paré, staff has secured a $250,000 grant from the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management that will be used to support the construction of the dog park on Franklin Upchurch Street.

CHAIR MIKE FOX AND DMV COMMISSIONER ON WPTF RADIO!

NC DOT Chair Mike Fox on WPTF: https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-afternoon-news/

DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin on WPTF: https://rss.com/podcasts/wptf-afternoon-news/1492886/

Yesterday, on the afternoon show, I had the great opportunity of interviewing Chair Mike Fox and DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin! It was a very informative interview and Anthony Dehart and I really appreciated their time. Goodwin was in the Studio!

INDIAN AMERICAN IMPACT GALA IN DC!

Last week, I enjoyed attending the IA Impact Gala and reception, meeting and hearing from inspiring Indian American officials. It was great to catch up with Congresswoman Jaypal, and also Sarah Shah, who lives in Cary but is one of the leaders of this organization, which supports Indian American Candidates!

SHABAT DINNER at HSNC 

Last Friday, I enjoyed hosting with the HSNC, a Shabat Dinner with the Jewish Community.  We had an engaging discussion on collaboration between our communities.  Thanks to Gunvant Bhakta and the Triangle Area Hindu Temples for hosting! 

INSTITUTE OF POLITICAL LEADERSHIP GRADUATION 

Insights from Richard Burr: https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159578365186360/2209041726125551

I was honored to attend the Institute of Political Leadership Graduation at Duke Fuquay School of Business last Saturday as an alum of the program. The highlight for me was to hear the commencement address from Durham Mayor Leo Williams, along with catching up with former Congressman David Price and former US Senator Richard Burr, who served on a very engaging panel at the end of the ceremony. They shared their insights on a more civil approach to governing for the future political leaders of tomorrow.     

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK JOURNALISTS

Last week, I had the honor of welcoming the RTP Chapter of the NABJ to Morrisville at Rush Hour Karting for their networking reception. A special thanks to all of the Journalists who came out and of course, especially my good friend and WPTF Colleague, Gayle Hurd!

Thanks to Rush Hour Karting for Hosting and I want to thank all of these excellent journalists for the great work they doe very day covering the news and showing all of us how important free speech is in our nation!

HUNT INSITUTE COHORT FELLOWSHIP BEGINS!

Last Sunday and Monday, I began my Hunt Policy Fellowship in Charlotte at the Ballantyne Hotel with elected officials across the state. I was honored to have been named a member of the fourth cohort of the North Carolina Hunt State Policy Fellows program. The program aims to provide a bipartisan group of future education policymakers and aspiring state and local elected officials in North Carolina with the resources, space, and expertise needed to develop thoughtful positions on a variety of education policy issues. I enjoyed an engaging discussion on Early Childhood education policy and heard from top national and state leaders on this issue, particularly on the importance of funding childhood education to develop a pipeline of talent for our workforce. Next session is in July on K-12 education.

Read the full press release at https://bit.ly/4bExtrX and learn more about The Hunt Institute at hunt-institute.org

NORTH CAROLINA TRANSPORTATION SUMMIT!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, I attended the North Carolina Transportation Summit, where community, business and local government officials, gathered for an engaging and informative discussion on transportation in NC! Highlights for me was the inspiring keynote from NFL Player, Solomon Thomas on mental health and suicide prevention, the panel on AI and Transportation, discussions on the future of transportation funding, and of course, an address to the audience by our Governor Roy Cooper, who is pleased on the progress we are making in infrastructure investments in NC, both jobs and projects, but says we have much work to do!

A special thanks to Secretary Joey Hopkins and his team for leading such an important agency and for hosting a very informative and educational conference.

INSPIRED BY NFL JETS SOLOMON THOMAS AT THE NC DOT SUMMIT

I was honored to meet and be inspired by NFL Great Solomon Thomas, who is stepping up efforts to help address mental health issues after the loss of his sister to suicide. He also battled mental illness after the loss of his sister and is now addressing youth suicide through his non profit, the Defensive Line!

KNIGHTDALE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION!

Congrats to Knightdale High Graduates! I was honored to attend the graduation with School Board Chair Chris Heagarty, Mayor Jessica Day, and other school board members and County Commissioners. It was a wonderful ceremony at Reynolds Coliseum!

NC TECH EXPONENTIAL A HIT!

I ended the week at the NC Tech Exponential Summit. Much of the panels and discussions were on AI, focusing on itspromised and challenges, and developing a Cyberworkforce. I enjoyed the panel with IBM Executive, Tim Humprhey, and the main highlight for me was the outstanding Start Up Showcase, where we heard from some of the top startups in the state, including Civic Reach and Bionic Health! (Robbie Allen) Many folks enjoyed

the John Chambers Fireside Chat!

Thanks to Brooks Raidford and his team for another event.

MAY 14 COUNCIL MEETING

Highlights from the May 14, 2024 Morrisville Town Council meeting include:

• Proclamation Recognizing Building Safety Month

• Proclamation Recognizing National Public Works Week

• Proclamation Recognizing Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and Police Week

• FY2025 Recommended Annual Operating Budget and Capital Investment Program

• Morrisville Parkway Access Management Study Update

• Proposed UDO Text Amendments for Masonry Painting, Tobacco and Hemp Sales, Government Accessory Buildings Exemptions, and Stormwater Management

• Public Art Acceptance Policy

• Resolution Adopting the Morrisville Sponsorship Policy & Facility Naming Rights Policy Read the full details at https://bit.ly/44R8pMj #LiveConnectedLiveWell

TOWN OF MORRISVILLE PASSES 2025 BUDGET

Morrisville Town Manager Brandon Zuidema presented the recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY2025) to the Morrisville Town Council during Tuesday’s council meeting. The total recommended general fund operating budget for FY2025 is $58,190,000. The FY2025 budget is focused on investing in Morrisville – making a commitment to residents, businesses and Town employees to deliver improved and enhanced services and outcomes for our growing community.


The proposed tax rate for FY2025 is reduced from $0.39 per $100 of property valuation to $0.35 per $100 of property valuation. The proposed tax rate is 5 cents above the revenue neutral rate of $0.30 per $100 of property valuation. Of this amount, the equivalent value of the 3 cents originally dedicated remains intact for the bond projects approved by voters in November 2021 for public safety, parks and recreation, and streets, sidewalks and connectivity projects.


The proposed stormwater fee remains at $50 per ERU to support stormwater operations and capital infrastructure, positioning the Town to better meet state mandates relating to protecting water quality and the environment. The Vehicle Tax Fee ($30) remains unchanged.


The proposed budget includes minor user fee adjustments and is balanced using $1,571,700 of general fund balance appropriations (less than 3% of total expenditures) for one-time expenses.


Capital reserve allocations of $4,760,000, or 8% of the general fund budget, are proposed for future spending in key areas of roadway and transportation improvements, parks and recreation improvements, land acquisition (a new reserve fund), debt to support the Public Works facility project, fire apparatus purchases, and the remaining Municipal Service District project.

SMALL BUSINESS VISITS OF THE WEEK

This week I began my Small Business Visits across Wake County and will post the most recent visits in this section. Over the next few months, I plan to visit a small business in every Town in the County. We will be moving my older ones to the website in the next few weeks! If you would like me to drop by your business, please let me know by emailing me at sr@steverao.com or srao@morrisvillenc.gov


Bionic Health at NC Tech: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1571062460128961


Chainyard: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/430138616280474


Opiad https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159537750256360/1647446059335784


Mixer in Winston Salem! https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/463157219724466


ReConnect  (NC Corrections Conference) https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1616038752550136



Mi Cancun!    https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1437605236868911

MEDIA ALERTS

WRAL news on Pfizer shutdown.

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/10/27/pfizer-shutting-down-facilities-in-durham-morrisville/


WRAL TECH WIRE BLOG TOE TO TOE WITH JOHN CHAMBERS https://wraltechwire.com/2023/10/27/john-chambers-ai-innovation-going-one-on-one-with-a-tech-legend/


Sept 29th PBS Black Issues Forum:

https://video.pbsnc.org/show/black-issues-forum/


WRAL Tech Wire Blog: Canada is Eating America's Lunch When it Comes to High Tech Immigration:

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/09/14/canada-is-eating-americas-lunch-when-it-comes-to-high-tech-worker-immigration/


WRAL Tech Wire Blog: What is the ROI for Refugees Coming to NC, that is a Billion Dollar Question.

https://wraltechwire.com/2023/08/17/whats-the-roi-for-refugees-coming-to-nc-thats-a-billion-dollar-question/


Check out recent Triangle Business Journal Article, the Color of Wealth on Asian Community.

https://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/news/2023/08/11/asian-culture-wealth-household-income-raleigh-cary.html

MORRISVILLE COMMUNITY PARK PLAYGROUND RENOVATIONS!

The Morrisville Community Park (MCP) playground (1520 Morrisville Parkway) is getting a makeover! Get ready for a whole new playground experience with brand-new equipment and a revamped surface.


Construction of the new MCP playground will begin on May 31. The project is slated for completion in early July. For safety considerations, the playground will be closed during this period.


Stay connected via social media for updates on park progress, including the anticipated reopening date.


In the meantime, explore alternative playground options in town:

Church Street Park | 5800 Cricket Pitch Way

Indian Creek | 101 Town Hall Drive

Northwest Park | 998 Parkside Valley Drive

Shiloh Park | 922 Church Street

THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE MAY27-MAY31

Meetings

May 28 – 6:00 p.m. Town Council Meeting

May 29 – 6:00 p.m. Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Committee

May 30 – 6:00 p.m. Town Council Budget Work Session (Tentative)

Memorial Day Closures

In observance of Memorial Day, all Town offices will be closed on Monday, May 27. This also includes Cedar Fork Community Center, Morrisville Senior Center, and the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center. Garbage collection will run on its regular schedule.

Juneteenth Festival on June 8

Join us for the Morrisville Juneteenth event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 8, at Shiloh Park (922 Church St.). The event will feature music, historical presentations, entertainment, food trucks, games, a fish fry by Morrisville Education & Community Services Enterprise, and the unveiling of a new mural at Shiloh Park! There will be no on-site parking for this event. Parking will be available at Church Street Park, 5817 Cricket Pitch Way and Iron Mountain, 826 Church Street. Shuttles will run from both parking locations to Shiloh Park. For more information, click here.

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 remaining dates are May 19, and June 2. The dog parks will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day. Registration is free, but we will require proof of vaccination. Register here to attend.

Town Budget Connection Portal Now Open

The Town Manager's Recommended FY2025 Annual Operating Budget & Capital Investment Program will be available to the public soon. The budget will focus on "Investing in Morrisville" - putting tax dollars to work by delivering improved services and meeting emerging needs and interests of a growing community.


The Town will host various opportunities, including:

  • Budget Open House - May 22 at 6 p.m. at Town Hall
  • Budget Info Table - May 23 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the MAFC
  • Budget Public Hearing - May 28 at 6 p.m. at Town Council Meeting

The information you provide will inform Town Council's deliberations and decisions to approve a budget that invests your tax dollars. Get involved and share your thoughts by clicking here for full details.

Advisory Committee Recruitment Closes July 1

Applications are now being accepted for Town advisory committees! We're seeking enthusiastic individuals to join a committee and lend their voices to important local issues. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or a newcomer with fresh perspectives, we want to hear from YOU.

  • Environment and Stormwater Committee
  • Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee
  • Planning and Zoning Board
  • Public Safety Advisory Committee
  • Senior Advisory Committee
  • Smart City Steering Committee

To apply click here.

Yoga Registration Open

  • Family Tree Yoga, ages 5-9, will shift to a new schedule on Tuesdays, from 4:30 to 5:20 p.m., May 14 through June 18. All participants must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
  • Yoga Roots, ages 10-14, will meet on Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:20 p.m., May 16 through June 20.


For further details and to register, please click here.

Girls Volleyball Clinic Registration Open May 13

Morrisville Athletics will host a free girls volleyball clinic on Sunday, June 2, from 1-3 p.m. at Cedar Fork Community Center (1050 flag Drive). The clinic will open for registration on Monday, May 13. Girls ages 7-9 will have the opportunity to learn introductory skills and participate in game play. Sign up for the free clinic here.

Summer White Goods Collection Registration Open Until June 3

The Morrisville Public Works Staff provides a white goods collection every three months for the collection of bulky appliances. The summer white goods collection will be June 7.

Items that will be collected include:

  • Washing machines
  • Dryers
  • Freezers
  • Refrigerators
  • Dishwashers
  • Water heaters
  • Stoves and ovens
  • Dehumidifiers

Microwaves are not included in the collection. Microwaves should be dropped off at the South Wake Landfill at 6130 Old Smithfield Road in Apex or at one of the Town's Green Day events in the spring or fall.

Registration is required to participate. Register by Monday, June 3, at 5 p.m. by

clicking here.

This Month at the Morrisville Senior Center


  • May 24 - 12 p.m. Blood Pressure Clinic
  • May 29 - 9:00 a.m. National Senior Health & Fitness Day

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

Celebrate Senior Health & Fitness Day With the MSC

Join the Morrisville Senior Center staff for a fun-filled morning in the park on Wednesday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet at the Morrisville Community Park shelter (1520 Morrisville Parkway) for community walking, games, and giveaways. Seniors who participate in the event will receive a National Senior Health & Fitness Day certification.

New Smart Shuttle Node Opening June 2

The Morrisville Smart Shuttle is expanding to include a node on McCrimmon Parkway, adjacent to Wake Competition Center. The node will be live on June 2. Transfers to GoTriangle route 310 will also be available from this node.

Morrisville Community Park Playground Closing for Renovations May 31

Renovations on Morrisville Community Park's playground (1520 Morrisville Parkway) will begin May 31 and are expected to be completed by early July. In the meantime, explore alternative playground options in town:

  • Church Street Park (5800 Cricket Pitch Way)
  • Indian Creek (101 Town Hall Drive)
  • Northwest Park (998 Parkside Valley Drive)
  • Shiloh Park (922 Church Street)


Follow Morrisville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources on social media for updates on the renovation progress and the anticipated reopening date. 

Save the Date

Asphalt Rejuvenation Starting May 30

The Town of Morrisville has contracted with Pavement Technology Inc. to provide asphalt rejuvenation services to streets in Town. Work will begin on May 30, and is anticipated to last until June 8. Door hangers regarding specific dates of services will be placed at homes and are subject to change based on weather conditions.

A project overview and streets receiving the services is available here.

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.


WWFM now accepts EBT card withdrawals from SNAP-eligible customers at the Info Tent. They are also currently offering Double Bucks, meaning each withdrawal will be matched 1:1 in value.


CompostNow.org is also now hosting a compost collection site at the market’s information tent. Residents are invited to bring their food scraps and select other items for collection during market hours. Visit wwfm.ag to learn more.

Now Hiring

The Town of Morrisville is now hiring for both full- and part-time positions. Check out employment opportunities here.

AROUND THE REGION

Great time with Tech Leaders at NC Tech Exponential!

Thanks to Dean Kucic from UNC Charlotte for all his work!

Catching Up with NC DOT Chair Mike Fox at Transportation Summit!

Congrats to IOPL Graduates!

Catching up with Greensboro Marikay Abuzuiater at NC DOT! Hope she runs for

Mayor!

Hanging with Satish at a Sri Lankan Practice!

Hanging out with NC DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin at Transportation Summit!

OTHER NORTH CAROLINA NEWS

UNC guts DEI Policy

The Board of Governors for the University of North Carolina System voted Thursday to repeal and replace its existing diversity and inclusion policy that applies to the 17 schools the board oversees.


The new policy reverses one that was adopted in 2019 that sought to “foster an inclusive environment” and required each school to submit diversity and inclusion reports to the board of trustees every year.


The new policy now requires UNC schools to “ensure equality of all persons & viewpoints,” and promote “nondiscrimination in employment practices.”

It also mandates that all UNC schools comply with a series of amendments passed by the North Carolina General Assembly in the past year that limit what can be discussed or taught about race, racism and sex in government institutions.

The policy passed with two board members – Joel Ford and Sonja Phillips Nichols – voting no. Both Ford and Nichols are Black.


As the meeting convened, dozens of protestors gathered outside to rally against the proposed changes to the DEI policy. Andy Wallace, director of media relations for the UNC system, confirmed to CNN that two people were arrested outside the meeting Thursday morning.


Ahead of the vote, board secretary Pearl Burris-Floyd and board member Gene Davis discussed their support for the new policy.


Burris-Floyd said she retired from the field of DEI and believes there have been flaws in the way DEI has been taught.

“And that has hurt the fabric and ability to carry things forward, but it does not mean that we stop,” Burris-Floyd said.


Read More at https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/23/us/unc-dei-policy-vote-reaj/index.html. 


NC House rejects Masking Bill 

The state House voted Wednesday to reject a Senate bill that could restrict the use of face masks in public.


The Senate wanted to eliminate a provision in state law that allows masks for public health reasons. Republicans say they want to crack down on protestors who break the law while wearing masks.


But the wording of the legislation prompted concerns it could ban all masks in public spaces. Republicans in the House say they want to clarify that before the bill becomes law.


"What we've seen with a lot of this civil unrest, wearing a mask — that needs to be punished, you shouldn't be able to conceal your identity to engage in criminal conduct," House Speaker Tim Moore said Wednesday. "The question is striking that balance to make sure that it doesn't go so far, that you aren't limiting the ability of someone who is not breaking the law, wearing a mask for their own health. So we believe there's some language that can be drafted ... that will make that clear."

Rep. Sarah Crawford, D-Wake, said she's gotten lots of calls from opponents of the bill.


"This bill as written infringes on our constitutional First Amendment rights and puts at risk the health and safety of our communities," she said, adding that she'd like to see the law explicitly allow people to wear face coverings for religious purposes.


The House and Senate will now negotiate a new version of the bill. The original House version of the bill, which passed the chamber a year ago, called for longer prison sentences for people who commit a crime while wearing a hood or mask to conceal their identity.


Moore declined to speculate on what the wording will be in the final bill. "There's nothing that's been pre-baked or predetermined on this," he said. "This is a genuine interest in having a conversation with the Senate to improve this bill."


The Senate version would repeal a law passed during the COVID-19 pandemic that allows masks in public for health and safety reasons. That exemption was added to a 1953 ban on face masks passed in response to Ku Klux Klan activity.


The 1953 law applies the ban to "any mask, hood or device whereby the person, face or voice is disguised so as to conceal the identity of the wearer." Exceptions include safety masks related to someone's occupation or trade, holiday costumes and gas masks for civil defense drills.



The Senate bill would also impose Class H felony penalties — up to two years in prison — on repeat offenders who block traffic as part of a protest. First-time offenses would come with a higher level of misdemeanor charge.


Speaker Moore proposes Constitutional Amendment for citizen only Voting.

The North Carolina Speaker of the House, Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, has filed legislation to amend the state constitution to allow citizens-only to vote in all

elections.


This legislation, HB 1074, is co-sponsored by Rep. Destin Hall, R-Caldwell, and House Majority Whip Rep. Karl Gillespie, R-Cherokee. Rep. Mike Clampitt,

R-Jackson; Rep. Ben T. Moss, R-Moore; and Rep. Mitchell S. Setzer, R-Catawba, also signed onto the bill.


“In order to preserve the democratic principles of our nation, it is imperative that we ensure the integrity of our elections. I am proud to sponsor this bill,” said

Gillespie.


The legislation mirrors SB 630, which was filed in 2023 and which Sen. Brad Overcash, R-Gaston, told the Carolina Journal that he intended to reintroduce

this session.


“In North Carolina, we value the integrity of our elections and have put safeguards in place to ensure our elections are secure,” said Moore in a press release

Thursday. “Recent efforts to allow non-citizens to vote would undermine the public’s confidence in our electoral system and leave the door open for chaos and

election fraud to take hold. Preventing non-citizens from voting in our elections also helps maintain national sovereignty, as it prevents foreign influence from

affecting the outcomes of American elections, and this amendment to our constitution would further strengthen election integrity in North Carolina.”

The North Carolina Constitution currently says that “Every person born in the United States and every person who has been naturalized, who is 18 years of

age.”


Read More at https://www.carolinajournal.com/speaker-moore-introduces-constitutional-amendment-for-citizen-only-voting/


WAKE COUNTY PRESENTS $2 BILLION BUDGET

Wake County Manager David Ellis presented a $2 billion budget proposal to the Wake County Board of Commissioners for Fiscal Year 2025 on Monday night.


Ellis is asking for $200 million more than the previous budget. The School Board is asking for $49 million more than last year.

"This budget aligns with the county's newly adopted strategic plan," Ellis said. "It includes funding to advance each of the plan's six focus areas, so we can improve the quality and reach of our programs and services while remaining fiscally responsible."


Ellis is also proposing a lower overall tax rate for county property taxes. However, with property valuations skyrocketing this year, many may still end up paying for in property tax than in years past. The tax rate is going from 65.7 cents down to 51.05 cents per $100 of assessed value.


Back in January, 53% of Wake County residents saw an increase in their property valuation, and therefore their taxes.


The proposed budget decreases the current tax rate from 65.7 cents to 51.05 cents per $100 of valuation. Of that, 36.30 cents will fund operating expenses, and 14.75 cents will go toward long-term debt and capital plans.


Read More at #.


Republican Primaries give Weatherman, Bolick, and Brad Knott Victories:

Brad Knott, a candidate backed by former President Donald Trump, overwhelmingly won the Republican primary runoff for North Carolina’s 13th Congressional District on Tuesday against a rival who suspended her campaign two weeks ago in response to the endorsement.


The former assistant U.S. attorney defeated Kelly Daughtry, a local lawyer and the daughter of a former longtime Republican legislative leader. Daughtry had finished first among 14 candidates in the March 5 primary. But she failed to exceed the 30% necessary to avoid a runoff, which Knott sought as the second-place finisher.


In statewide GOP primary runoffs Tuesday, Hal Weatherman won the nomination for lieutenant governor and Dave Boliek won the nomination for state auditor. Like Knott, they also advance to the general election in November.


Trump backed Knott in early April. It wasn’t until weeks later, on May 2, that Daughtry, who was also the top fundraiser in the primary largely thanks to her personal campaign loans, suspended her campaign and threw her support to her rival. But by then, early voting was well underway, and it was too late to take her name off the ballot.



Daughtry said Trump’s endorsement of Knott made clear to her “that a pathway to victory is no longer feasible.”

Knott’s victory once again highlights Trump’s history of successful interventions in North Carolina GOP politics.


Knott now will take on Democrat Frank Pierce in the general election. The GOP-dominated General Assembly reconfigured the 13th District last year so

that it is more rightward leaning. The new district covers all or parts of eight counties in or close to the capital of Raleigh. Current 13th District Democratic Rep. Wiley Nickel chose not to run for reelection, citing the boundary changes. The seat is one of three the GOP expects to add to the U.S. House from North Carolina this fall, thanks to redistricting.


In a written statement late Tuesday, Knott thanked Trump and members of the North Carolina congressional delegation for their endorsements, and said it was time to focus on winning in November.


“We need Conservatives from all across the country to stand strong with President Trump and deliver real solutions in Congress. I look forward to doing just that,” Knott said.


Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, won North Carolina, the country’s ninth-largest state, in both the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, and the state is expected to be a presidential battleground this fall.


Trump’s social media post endorsing Knott called him a “Strong Patriot” who would support law enforcement, secure the U.S.-Mexico border and protect gun rights.

As for Daughtry, the daughter of a former longtime Republican legislative leader, Trump called her a “RINO” — Republican in Name Only — and someone who “is no friend to MAGA,” a reference to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan.

This year marks the second time Trump has endorsed a Daughtry opponent; in a 2022 primary for the 13th District, he backed her challenger and then-political newcomer Bo Hines, the ultimate primary winner.


Trump also endorsed then-U.S. Rep. Ted Budd in the 2022 GOP primary for U.S. Senate. Budd easily defeated former Gov. Pat McCrory, then went on to win the general election. In the recent March primary, Trump backed first-time candidate Addison McDowell, who ended up winning the 6th Congressional District race.

Weatherman, the former chief of staff to then-Lt. Gov. Dan Forest, defeated Forsyth County District Attorney Jim O’Neill in the lieutenant governor's primary.

Weatherman will take on Democratic state Sen. Rachel Hunt, daughter of former four-term Gov. Jim Hunt, in the fall election.


Boliek, an attorney and former chairman of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill trustee board, defeated CPA and state legislative staffer Jack Clark in the auditor's primary. Boliek will take on Democratic State Auditor Jessica Holmes in November.


GOP runoff voting was open to registered Republicans and unaffiliated voters who either voted in the March Republican primaries or didn’t vote at all.


SENATE PASSES BILL MANDATING SHERIFF COOPERATION WITH ICE

The North Carolina Senate passed legislation Thursday mandating all North Carolina sheriffs cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the federal agency that issues detainers to remove noncitizens who have been arrested for felonies or violent misdemeanor criminal activity. The bill passed 28-16 along party lines.


“You can vote for public safety or you can vote to continue sanctuary policies,” Sen. Buck Newton, R-Wilson, said on the Senate floor. “When I was in this body before, we were pursuing this legislation for stubborn hard-headed sheriffs that did not want to comply and follow federal immigration laws and did not want to work with ICE. Most sheriffs are totally on board with this policy. Most sheriffs comply, but we have a few that don’t want to.” House Bill 10 passed the North Carolina House of Representatives in 2023 71-44, with just two Democrats voting in favor; Rep. Cecil Brockman, D-Guilford, and Rep. Michael Wray, D-Northampton. Both Democrats have been targeted by Democrat activists as a result of that vote and others in which they sided with Republicans.


When the bill became active in the Senate this spring, Newton proposed an amendment to change the date of when sheriffs offices will begin tracking detainer orders to October 1, 2025, rather than October of 2024. Now the legislation will return to the House side for concurrence with the amended bill.


As Senate committees considered the bill earlier this week, opponent activists lobbied lawmakers in the legislative buildings. The vocal minority belies a recent Carolina Journal poll that found 25% of North Carolina likely voters labeled immigration as the most important issue in light of elections this November.


Read More at https://www.carolinajournal.com/senate-passes-bill-requiring-sheriffs-to-cooperate-with-ice/.


DEMOCRATS RUN ANTI MORROW BILL

The Democrats’ minority whip in the North Carolina Senate has introduced a bill that could bar the Republican candidate for superintendent of public instruction from serving in office. Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, D-Wake, is running Senate Bill 867, Superintendent of Public Instruction Minimum Requirements. The measure mandates that the state superintendent “must have at least one year of experience as a teacher or school administrator in this State or a member of a local board of education or the State Board of Education.” The legislation notably leaves out homeschool educators.


The GOP’s nominee for state superintendent, Michele Morrow, has never served as a traditional school teacher, administrator, or on a local or state board of education. She ran unsuccessfully for the Wake County School Board in 2022, but has remained a grassroots activist on the state of education in North Carolina. Five of Morrow’s children attended public school, but she became a homeschool educator when public schools weren’t meeting her daughter’s needs. She works with teaching coalitions to guide other homeschool educators.


Under the North Carolina Constitution, the only Council of State office with a credentialing or experience requirement is attorney general. The Council of State is the 10-member executive body that includes offices like governor, lieutenant governor, and state labor commissioner.


In 1984, voters approved an amendment to the state constitution requiring that an attorney general be licensed to practice law in the state: “Candidates must be duly authorized to practice law in the courts of the state,” according to the NC Board of Elections. Under current NC statutes, the agriculture commissioner and the members of the Board of Agriculture “shall be practicing farmers engaged in their profession,” but it’s unclear how “farmer” is defined.


Other offices have no requirements. For example, the current state auditory, Democrat Jessica Holmes, is not a Certified Public Accountant. The two most recent auditors, Les Merritt and Beth Wood, have been CPAs.


Attorney Paul “Skip” Stam, a former Republican leader in NC House, said that a change like that included in HB867 would need to be added to the state constitution. That process would require

a three-fifths vote in both chambers of the General Assembly and a simple majority vote from voters. In February, Chaudhuri announced plans to file a bill that would empower the NC State Board of Elections with the authority to remove a presidential candidate from voter ballots under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution. The measure would ostensibly give the state board the authority to block a candidate like former President Donald Trump from appearing on the NC ballot.


Read More at https://www.carolinajournal.com/democrats-run-anti-morrow-bill-in-nc-senate/


NC Republican Run Offs Underway!

Early in-person voting started on Thursday across North Carolina for next month's runoff elections, including one congressional and two statewide primary contests.

Voters are choosing this fall's Republican nominees for lieutenant governor, state auditor and the 13th Congressional District seat. These May 14 runoffs, also known as "second primaries," occurred because the candidate with the most votes in the March 5 primaries for these races failed to receive more than 30% of the vote. The second-place candidate had to formally ask for a runoff.


The lieutenant governor's GOP runoff is between Hal Weatherman and Jim O'Neill, while the nomination for state auditor is between Jack Clark and Dave Boliek. Kelly Daughtry and Brad Knott are seeking the 13th District nomination. The winners will face Democratic rivals — and in some cases Libertarian Party candidates — in the fall.


These GOP primary runoffs are open to all registered Republicans in the state, or in the case of the congressional race, registered Republicans within the 13th District.

Unaffiliated voters who either didn't vote or voted Republican in the March primaries also can participate, the State Board of Elections said in a news release.

Early voting in all 100 counties continues through May 11. Generally, most counties have just one early-vote site for the runoffs.


A GOP primary runoff is also being conducted for a Gaston County commissioner's seat. And there's a race to fill a seat on the nonpartisan Orange County Board of Education that had different runoff rules.


Same-day registration is unavailable during early voting because the registration of new voters is not permitted between the first and second primaries. But people who become eligible to vote during the two primaries can both register and vote on May 14, the state board said.


Traditional mail-in absentee voting for the runoffs began in late March when county boards started sending ballots to those who requested them.


Governor Cooper proposes Final Budget

Before the short session began in the General Assembly Wednesday, Democrat Gov. Roy Cooper laid out his recommended budget proposal for the last time as governor.

A major part of the budget, entitled “Securing North Carolina’s Future,” focuses on education and school funding. Cooper’s proposal would spend over $1 billion on additional funding for public schools.


Under the plan, starting teacher salaries would rise to more than $47,500, including local and state supplements—the highest in the Southeast. The budget would also reinstate Masters Pay, raise teacher pay by 8.5% plus a $1,500 retention bonus for most teachers, increase salaries for school-based administrators, and invest $34.7 million to expand Read to Achieve to middle school students.


It would also provide funding for 700 elementary school teaching assistants in grades K-3, $11 million to attract new teachers, and expand the Teaching Fellows program eligibility to more education schools and in more subject areas.


$745 million would be dedicated to subsidizing child care and early education; $217 million would go toward support programs for disadvantaged students, children with disabilities, and students with limited English proficiency; and, $44.6 million to support student mental and physical health by hiring more school counselors, nurses, psychologists, and social workers.


Cooper said the budget also addresses the $13 billion need for new school buildings by recommending that voters approve a $2.5 billion school construction bond on the November 2024 ballot.


In addition, he would put a moratorium on taxpayer-funded private school vouchers and redirect the money to public schools.


Cooper declared a “State of Emergency” for public education in May 2023, with a red banner across the top of the governor.nc.gov website that would normally be dedicated for true emergencies such as hurricanes. He has been against school choice, including Opportunity Scholarships, which are designed to enable families to choose a private school education for their children.


A record-breaking 72,000 applications were received for the program this year.

The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority, or NCSEAA, announced on March 30 that 13,511 new students in the first award tier have been offered scholarships. Renewal families — those already enrolled in the program — were also offered scholarships.


In his proposal, Cooper sets aside $200 million for Child Care Stabilization Grants to keep child care centers open and $128.5 million for child care subsidies that will increase reimbursement rates for providers in rural and low-wealth communities.

The budget also includes $197 million to cover the full cost of care for NC Pre-K students and $24.4 million to provide summer programs for students once they complete NC Pre-K and before they enter kindergarten. The budget further reduces childcare costs for North Carolina families by providing a refundable tax credit for child and dependent care.


“This budget is an opportunity to build on our state’s momentum and make up ground in areas like public education, quality child care and clean drinking water, where legislators have fallen short,” Cooper said in a press release. “As the number one state to do business in the country for two years in a row, we have the formula for success in our high-quality public schools, talented workforce and thriving economy. We must make targeted investments strengthening public education, boosting economic development, and protecting our natural resources to secure a bright future for North Carolina.”


His budget allots $251.8 million to guarantee at least a 5% across-the-board salary increase for state employees and non-certified public-school employees and close to $400 million for a retention bonus for all state-funded employees, with most receiving a $1,500 retention bonus.


The budget also gives $195.8 million in funding for the Enhanced Labor Market Adjustment Reserve to give agencies, universities, and community colleges flexibility to address hard-to-retain and hard-to-fill roles.


The budget allocates $40 million for the Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center for high-need job training, more than $18.5 million to expand the state’s capacity to produce more healthcare professionals, $49 million in unemployment insurance tax cuts, and $9 million to help small businesses pursue federal funds through One NC.

It establishes a rural youth apprenticeship program based on existing models and invests $5 million in job coaching for people with barriers to employment. The budget also includes $12.8 million in funding for local reentry councils and support services for former prison inmates upon release.

The proposed budget also suggests more spending on manufacturing readiness with investments in the Certified Sites program and a $50 million investment in Radio Island infrastructure improvements.

Cooper’s budget would also establish a $100 million fund to help communities clean their water from pollutants such as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). It would also reinstate the Conservation Tax Credit, as well as additional funds for the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and the North Carolina Land and Water Fund.

Finally, about $20 million in grants would be used to improve draining and reduce flooding with waterway upgrades and increase funding for the Flood Resilience Blueprint. The budget includes just under $5 million for equipment to enhance the North Carolina Forest Service’s capacity to battle wildfires.


UNC System Plans to Scrap DEI Offices

The University of North Carolina System's Board of Governors plans to vote next month on a new policy targeting diversity and inclusion efforts at state universities and eliminate positions related to diversity and inclusion.


A committee approved the new policy at a Wednesday meeting without discussion. If approved by the full 24-member board next month, it would repeal and replace the system’s existing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policy, which was adopted in 2019.


The item will be placed on the consent agenda at the May meeting, which is scheduled for May 23.


The change would affect all 16 public colleges and universities across the state, including UNC-Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, plus the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics.


Earlier in April, a key UNC-Chapel Hill trustee with ties to Republican legislative leaders said he expected the university system to scrap some DEI policies.

Not only are DEI goals and initiatives at stake, but several jobs and job titles are on the line. The new rules would require those jobs to be changed or eliminated by Sept. 1.


Members of the Board of Governors are appointed by the state House and Senate to staggered four-year terms. Both chambers have been controlled by Republicans since 2011, meaning all current members have been appointed by Republicans.

The current policy, entitled "Regulation on Diversity and Inclusion Within the University of North Carolina" calls for each institution to have a senior-level administrator as its diversity and inclusion officer. The current policy establishes "system-wide diversity and inclusion metrics and goals" and created a "UNC System diversity and inclusion council.


The new proposed policy rewrites the section entirely, beginning with the title: "Equality Within the University of North Carolina." It requires by Sept. 1 that each institution certify that it "fully complies with the university's commitment to institutional neutrality and nondiscrimination.


Further, it requires "a report on reductions in force and spending, along with changes to job titles and position descriptions, undertaken as a result of implementing this policy and how those savings achieved from these actions can be redirected to initiatives related to student success and well-being."

Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, came out against the move.


Read More at https://www.wral.com/story/unc-system-may-eliminate-diversity-goals-and-jobs-at-17-campuses-across-the-state/21383986/


WAKE COUNTY SCHOOL COVID FUNDS DRYING UP

The Wake County school system will propose a few alternative budgets for next year that include raises for employees — and the current school programming they could cut afford them.


Board members have posed but not necessarily agreed on various cuts to new programming funded using one-time federal pandemic relief dollars. That money will disappear next year, and the school board — like others around the country — is facing a decision on whether and how to keep what it funded.


This shortfall includes includes a $2.5 million before- and after-school supervision program for some students, $4 million for dozens of full-time school-level substitute teachers and $13.8 million for more than 100 behavioral health support professionals. Not all board members agreed to cut those things or on the extent to which to cut those things.


Meanwhile, the district is still struggling with staffing. It had 324 open bus driver positions in March — a 36.8% vacancy rate that has not stopped rising for years, even with periodic wage increases. Teacher vacancies in Wake County were about 2.1% in March — a slight improvement over the past two years, although the district has experienced high attrition in recent years — 16.7% from March 2022 to March 2023, according to the latest state attrition report.


d feelings on how to move forward during a work session Tuesday afternoon. They’ll meet again during another afternoon work session on April 30, hoping to agree on a final budget proposal by the end of it. The board would then vote on May 7 on a proposal to send to county commissioners.


In June, Commissioners will likely vote on how much local funding to provide for the school system.


Read More at https://www.wral.com/story/that-s-a-tough-choice-wake-school-board-considers-cuts-adjustments-to-fund-raises/21383197/

LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES 

1. Nvidia, a semiconductor giant, announced record year-on-year revenue growth of 262% in the first quarter of 2024, beating expectations. The stratospheric rise was driven by its data-centre business, which grew by 427% in the same period. Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s chief executive, said he expects “a lot of” revenue this year, as the company is launching a new line of chips.


2. Taiwan dispatched troops to “defend” itself after China began two days of military drills in five areas around the self-governing island. China said the exercises were “punishment” for its “separatist acts”. Taiwan swore in Lai Ching-te as its president on Monday. In the past Mr Lai has called for independence, but he did not campaign for any constitutional change or referendum on the matter.



3. Britain’s general election campaign began after Rishi Sunak, the prime minister, set the poll for July 4th. Mr Sunak’s Conservative Party cited falling inflation as it tried to tout its

economic record; the Labour Party unveiled a one-word slogan: “Change”. The Economist’s forecast model gives the Tories less than a 1% chance of retaining their majority.


4. Nikki Haley said she would vote for Donald Trump in America’s election. The former governor of South Carolina, dubbed “bird brain” by Mr Trump, repeatedly called the

former president unfit for office during an abandoned bid for the Republican nomination. Her endorsement may help Mr Trump garner more support from centre-right voters and bridge divides in the Republican party.


5. Shares in vaccine-focused biotech companies rose after two bird-flu cases were found in humans, bringing the total number detected this year to eight. Bird flu has been spreading through cattle in nine American states, including Michigan, where one of the human

cases was detected. The other was found in the Australian state of Victoria.


6. Zhang Zhan, a citizen journalist who was jailed by China in 2020 for reporting about covid-19, was released from prison. Ms Zhang was sentenced to four years in jail for “picking quarrels and causing trouble” for using social media to document the epidemic then engulfing the city of Wuhan. Reporters Without Borders, an NGO, said that the state was keeping Ms Zhang under strict surveillance.


7. An auction of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s Tennessee mansion, was temporarily halted by a judge. An investment company is attempting a foreclosure sale, claiming that Presley’s estate owes it $3.8m in loan repayments; the King’s granddaughter sued, alleging that the paperwork for the loan is fraudulent. A trial is expected. Over half a million people visit Graceland each year. It remains open in the meantime.


8. The White House said that Egypt had agreed to send humanitarian aid to Gaza through Kerem Shalom, the main commercial checkpoint between Israel and Gaza. Earlier, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, and to allow investigators and journalists to visit the enclave. The UN court said that an earlier demand for Israel to allow more aid to be delivered had failed to stop the humanitarian crisis in Gaza from worsening.


9. Norway, Ireland and Spain said Wednesday they were recognizing a Palestinian state, a move welcomed by Palestinians as an affirmation of their decadeslong quest while Israel recalled its ambassadors to the three countries.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Town of Morrisville Juneteenth event on June 8th from noon to 3 pm at Cedar Fork Community center!

June 20th Wake County Economic Development Meeting   8:30 am to 11:30 am at Raleigh Marriot City Center!     

Register at https://web.raleighchamber.org/events/EconomicDevelopment%20Annual%20Meeting%202024-2636/details.

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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