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VALENTINES DAY EDITION

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

February 14, 2023

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes. 

My Valentines Day Message:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/742547780519965

My Weekly Update

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1141814283160566

Last Friday, I attended the White House National Task Force on Artificial Intelligence at SAS in Cary.  I will focus on this meeting and other Technology Issues in my State of North Carolina Technology Newsletter later this month along with the impact of the Tech layoffs on our skilled immigrants.  

https://www.ai.gov/naiac/


American Heart Month.   

https://www.heart.org/en/around-the-aha/february-is-american-heart-month


Find over 60 Black History events in Triangle at

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

Transportation Alert:

Morrisville Carpenter Road is Completed! 

Morrisville Carpenter Road Completion Message:

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

Breaking News and Important Updates: 

State of the Union


Biden delivers energetic State of the Union implies he will run again!  


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzcBTUvVp7M


Turkey/Syria Earthquake Alert: 


30,000 dead from Earthquake.

https://www.sendrelief.org/projects/turkey-syria-earthquake/

Nikki Haley


Nikki Haley announces 2024 bid for President! Will challenge Trump.


https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/14/politics/nikki-haley-2024-announcement/index.html

NC Democratic Party Chair


Anderson Clayton pulls off major upset to become NC Democratic Party Chair.


(See NC News Section)  

Wake County Superintendent


Cathy Moore will retire as Wake County Superintendent.  


(See NC News)

See Latest National and Global Updates for more Breaking News.  

Sports Alerts: 

Superbowl


Kansas Chiefs win Superbowl Number 2!  

Congrats to Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid!  

Lebron James

is NBA All time Scorer and overtakes Kareem Abdul Jabar!   38,390!  

Feb 18th Canes Game

Looking forward to Feb 18th Canes Game at Carter Finley Stadium! 

https://www.espn.com/nhl/game/_/gameId/401459474

IMPORTANT DATES 

Morrisville Fitness and Aquatics Center is closed Feb 6-Feb 24 


February 6 – 24, MAFC Pool closed for maintenance to keep our pool beautiful. We hope you will use this time to expand your fitness activities.


For participants that want strength training besides the weight room, try our early morning classes, Hard Core 30, Next Level strength, or Interval Training. Our Spin classes can provide the cardio output you may be looking for.


For participants that are looking for a low-impact option, we have added additional Silver Sneakers classes, Low Impact Cardio Strong, and Low Impact Group Equipment Orientation. Don’t forget that Tai Chi is great for balance, coordination, memory, and stabilization.


Remember to sign up for classes at www.tinyurl.com/signupmafc

FREE CPR TRAINING OFFERED AT HSNC STARTING Feb 22.  


https://www.eventcreate.com/e/cpr

March 16 Small Business Town Hall


with Congressman Wiley Nickel, and SBA Southeast Director Allen Thomas   

4:30- 6pm at the Frontier RTP!  


Details coming in next newsletter!   

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

My Valentines Day Message:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/742547780519965

Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!  


Use this day to tell all the special people in our lives, how much we appreciate and love them. We pray for anyone who has lost a loved one in the past year! 

HISTORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY


https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2


The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Still others insist that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. He, too, was beheaded by Claudius II outside Rome.


Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl—possibly his jailor’s daughter—who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and—most importantly—romantic figure. By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France.


Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14. Across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and where did these traditions

come from? Find out about the meaning and history of Valentine’s Day, from the ancient Roman ritual of Lupercalia that welcomed spring to the card-giving customs of Victorian England.

The Legend of St. Valentine


Where did Valentine's Day originate from? The history of the holiday—and the story of its patron saint—is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite?


The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Still others insist that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. He, too, was beheaded by Claudius II outside Rome.


Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl—possibly his jailor’s daughter—who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and—most importantly—romantic figure.


By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France.


Read More at https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY AND BLACK RESISTANCE

My Black History Message: 

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

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


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


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


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

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

WAKE COUNTY LIBRARY BLACK HISTORY PROGRAMS


Wake County Public Libraries are celebrating Black Brilliance all February long with free programs focusing on Black art, history, creativity, and culture. 


The Morrisville Community Library will host: 

  • Thursday, Feb. 9 at 6 p.m.: Meet Morrisville native and SaturdayAM publisher Frederick L. Jones and discover his Manga novel The Massively Multiplayer World of Ghosts. Illustrator JeyOdin will showcase How To Draw Diverse Manga.


Registration is required at the Morrisville Community Library or by calling 919-463-8460.


  • Friday, Feb. 10 at 4:30 p.m.: Celebrate Black Brilliance with local author, Adrea Theodore. She will be reading her picture book A History of Me, and attendees can write or draw their own history. 


Space is limited. Stop by the front desk at the Morrisville Community Library to pick up a ticket. 


Learn about these events and more at https://bit.ly/3HPd8Ev


Morrisville Community Library, 310 Town Hall Drive

BLACK SMALL BUSINESS VISIT OF THE WEEK:

Equality vs. Equity and Leveling the Playing Field:

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


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


------------


GABOR FARMS


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

Visit with Gabor Farms:

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

WHAT IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH? 


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


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

THE STORY BEHIND BLACK HISTORY MONTH 


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


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


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


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


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


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

BLACK HISTORY TRAILBLAZERS:

During Black History Month, we celebrate the trailblazers, pioneers who were historic firsts.  


Lets remember a few: 

  • Kathryn Johnson brought home John Glenn from the Heavens.  
  • The Late Colin Powell was first Black man to serve as Chairman of the Joint Chief and Secretary of State  
  • Condoleeza Rice served as African American Female Secretary of State.  
  • Barack Obama served as first Black President of the United States.  
  • Lloyd Austin serves as first Black Secretary of Defense. 


We have come so far but we still have not crossed finish line. We have more work to do.


In the words of Freddy Mercury, The Show Must Go on.


Next week, we will focus on Black Inventors and innovators! 

Kathryn Johnson

Colin Powell

Condoleeza Rice

Barack Obama

Lloyd Austin

Colin Powell

Condoleeza Rice

Barack Obama

Lloyd Austin



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

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

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

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

Indian Community thriving! 

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

Radio Nyra

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


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


99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!


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

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


Radio Nyra Interview with NAACP Raleigh President Gerald Givens

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

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

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

ROKU and POD TV

Great US Open Roku TV Interview with Andy Andrews!


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

ROKU TV HINDU HERITAGE INTERVIEW:

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

Critical Conversations Podcast


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


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

88.1 FM Geet Bazaar


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


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

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

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



WPTF

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

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

WPTF Steve O'Bryan show
Get with the Program
Get with the Program with Gary Jones!

Black Issues Forum

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


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

Link to the show:

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

Op Ed Alert:

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

Read my Op Ed in Raleigh News and Observer

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

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

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


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

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


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

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


Read my WRAL Tech Wire Post on Hum Sub Diwali!

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

Join Our Mailing List

This Week in Morrisville: February 13th - 19th

Upcoming Meetings

Meetings


Feb. 14 – 6 p.m. – Town Council Meeting

All Lanes Now Open to Traffic on Morrisville Carpenter Road


The contractor has removed the cones on Morrisville Carpenter Road and Town Hall Drive, and all lanes are now open to traffic on both roads. Click here to learn more about this project.

Live Fire Training to Take Place on February 18


Area residents can expect to see a lot of smoke and numerous public safety vehicles while firefighters conduct a live fire training at 123 Scoggins Ave. on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For questions, please contact Deputy Fire Chief Tom Dooley at tdooley@townofmorrisville.org or 919-987-6273.

Morrisville Senior Center Hosting Trip to the Chocolate Boutique on February 15


The Morrisville Senior Center, 4117 Davis Drive, will host a trip to the Chocolate Boutique on Feb. 15, from 12:30-4 p.m. Participants will be able to choose from over 1,200 chocolate molds to make their own chocolate. Each participant will take home one-half pound of chocolate. The cost is $25 for residents and $30 for non-residents. Click here to register.

Morrisville Senior Center Hosting Tea Social on February 17


Join the Morrisville Senior Center, 4117 Davis Drive, for tea and conversation on Friday, Feb. 17, from 12:30-2 p.m. In addition to tea service, there will be salad and a sweet treat. The cost is $12 for residents and $14 for non-residents. Call the MSC at 919-463-7140 to register.

Morrisville Senior Center Hosting Trip to Ava Gardner Museum on February 22


The Morrisville Senior Center, 4117 Davis Drive, will host a trip to the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield on Feb. 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $23 for residents and $28 for non-residents. Lunch will be at a local restaurant at a separate cost. Click here to register online.

Have You Joined Engage Morrisville?


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

Pool at the MAFC to be Closed February 6-24


The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC), 1301 Morrisville Parkway, will close its pool for needed repairs from Feb. 6-24. New non-impact exercise classes will be available during this time.

MAFC Hosting Several Events this Week


Members of the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC), 1301 Morrisville Parkway, can share the love this month by bringing a guest for free once a day from Feb. 14-17. The limit is one guest per day. The MAFC has a number of events this week, including racquetball community play on Feb. 19, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The event is free for MAFC members and available to non-members with the purchase of a single visit pass. Registration will open on Feb. 12. Registration will also open for March swim lessons on Feb. 14 for Morrisville residents and on Feb. 16 for non-residents. Register for racquetball and swim at this link. Lessons will be offered March 6-22 for all ages.


Now Hiring: Join the MAFC Team


The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center is currently recruiting for a Senior Aquatics Specialist (FT), part-time lifeguards who can work during the day in the off season, experienced swim instructors, and desk staff who can work in the day and early evening. Learn more and apply here.  

 

Check out additional employment opportunities in the Town here.

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


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

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

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

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

Public Comment Period on Proposed Commuter Rail Open through February 19


GoTriangle released a report early in January with the results of the Greater Triangle Commuter Rail Feasibility study and information about options for a future commuter rail service in the area. The proposed commuter rail would help provide a congestion-free transportation opportunity and serve a region slated to grow by more than a million people in the next 30 years.

 

The plan includes passenger service at 15 stations along approximately 43 miles of existing North Carolina Railroad corridor between west Durham and Clayton. Visit readyforrailnc.com/feasibility to read the report or to complete a feedback survey. The comment period will be open until Feb. 19.

Shop Local at the Western Wake Farmers' Market


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


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

Around the Region

20 year Anniversary at WRAL Tech Wire


Celebrated 20 year Anniversary at WRAL Tech Wire as the newest member of their Op Ed Team! 



White House National Task Force


Attended the White House National Task Force on Artificial Intelligence.  


My Insights on AI: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/505369595092367

Emerging Issues Forum


Talent Economics Emerging Issues Forum was an educational and inspiring event!   Nice to see our Attorney General Stein (and next Governor) attending just to learn and thanks to Director Sarah Langer for a wonderful conference. 

Insights from Chancellor Randy Woodson: 

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1243486176546217/

Insights from Phillip Cooper:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/717306643394955

Small Business Listening Tour: 

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

Kramden Institute


Small Business Visit with Kramden Institute:

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

Mo’s Barbershop


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

Insights from Mo Davis:

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

Insights on how Mo worked with SBA:

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

Yeet Street Disc Golf


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

CW Dressings


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


Visit with CW Dressings

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

Swagat


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


Small business drop in at Swagat

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

National and North Carolina News

25 YEAR OLD ANDERSON CLAYTON PULLS OFF MAJOR UPSET TO BECOME STATE PARTY CHAIR


North Carolina Democratic Party officials elected a new chair on Saturday.


The party's executive committee chose 25-year-old activist Anderson Clayton for a two-year term. Clayton is the Person County Democratic Party chair and president of the state party chairs’ association. In a statement, Clayton thanked Democrats from across the state "for trusting me to lead our party as we prepare for the 2023 and 2024 elections.”


“I ran for Chair because I believe that we can build a brighter future for NCDP from the ground up, and I can’t wait to get to work," Clayton said.


Clayton campaigned on the need for change in the party. That's after Democrats lost seats in the General Assembly. They also lost control of the North Carolina Supreme Court.

Clayton also contended that the state party wasn’t doing enough to turn out its base and help candidates in rural areas.


Clayton defeated incumbent chair Bobbie Richardson, who is a former state lawmaker. Richardson became the state party's first Black chair in 2021.  


North Carolina Democrats also elected a diverse leadership team: 

• Jonah Garson, First Vice-Chair

• Dr. Kimberly Hardy, Second Vice-Chair

• Elijah King, Third Vice-Chair

• Melvin Williams, Secretary

CATHY MOORE WILL RETIRE AS WAKE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT 


Wake County Public School System Superintendent Cathy Moore — who guided the state’s biggest public school system through the Covid-19 pandemic, grappling with online learning and staff shortages — said Thursday that she will retire by July 1. 


Moore, who announced her retirement in a message to staff, has led the school system for the past five years.

In that time, her administration has worked with the school board to undertake a school-by-school safety audit, write the district’s first equity policy, propose two new school bond issues approved by voters totaling nearly $1.1 billion, and successfully ask Wake County Commissioners for several funding increases for more employees and employee raises. The district also recently started a new partnership with several area organizations for intensive tutoring services.


Moore's path to superintendent spanned all the ranks of the education system, from teacher to principal to area superintendent to deputy superintendent and, finally, to superintendent.


The school board will hire a new leader as the district faces several growing issues. A new superintendent will need to grapple with ongoing struggles to hire and retain staff, speeding up student learning to combat pandemic-related “learning loss,” and managing student assignment as the district’s population outpaces space in some areas and the district loses students to new charter schools in other areas. A new superintendent will also oversee the ongoing safety audit and actions to improve school safety.


Moore, Magnet Schools of America’s current Superintendent of the Year, signed a contract extension with the Wake County Board of Education in October. An annual review, and maintenance of a four-year contract, are standard procedures in the contract and for the school board. She earns a base salary of $328,504.92.


At nearly 160,000 students, the school system is North Carolina's largest and the 15th largest in the nation.


Moore is the 10th superintendent in the school system’s 50-year tenure. She was the first woman and first Latina to be superintendent of the Wake County system.


The Wake County Board of Education will be looking for a superintendent alongside the second-largest school system in North Carolina: Charlotte-Mecklenberg Schools, whose board fired its superintendent in April.

NC DEMOCRATS WILL CODIFY ROE V WADE and UPHOLD COOER VETO 


Every Democrat in North Carolina's legislature has signed onto a pair of identical bills that would codify Roe v. Wade, House and Senate Democrats announced in a release Tuesday.

  • Why it matters: Democrats' show of unity is a signal that the party intends to remain united on abortion, even as moderate Democrats face pressure to back the abortion restrictions Republicans propose this session.


Context: Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to veto any restrictions — beyond the state's current 20-week ban — that come across his desk.

  • But Republicans won an "effective" supermajority in the legislature in November and would need only the help of one Democrat to override his veto.


Worth noting: The legislation would also codify Planned Parenthood v. Casey and block the state from restricting abortion before fetal viability.


What they're saying: “Democratic lawmakers across our state know how critical it is to protect your right to privacy and choice,” said Senate Democratic Leader Dan Blue. “We stand united in protecting reproductive health care — a right that the majority of North Carolinians support.”

NC HOUSE CONSIDERS MEDICAID EXPANSION 


The North Carolina House will hear and likely vote on a Medicaid expansion measure next week, a key legislator said.


The bill's introduction this week, along with comments Thursday from Senate leader Phil Berger, reaffirms that a deal on expansion and perhaps other health care access reforms hasn't yet been reached between the two chambers. But it also means that accepting expansion remains a priority for Republicans during this year's chief General Assembly work session.


The House measure scheduled for debate in the chamber's health committee on Tuesday would direct the state starting in 2024 to cover several hundred thousand people who would qualify for expansion under the 2010 federal health care law.


Floor votes could come later Tuesday and Wednesday, said Rep. Donny Lambeth, a Forsyth County Republican and chief bill sponsor.


Both the House and Senate passed competing expansion bills last year, but they couldn't agree on whether additional health care access changes sought by the Senate should be included.


The House bill lacks many of those additional provisions sought by the Senate, including ways to scale back and streamlining “certificate of need” laws that require health regulators to sign off on expansion plans by medical providers. Another provision the Senate wants would give some specialty nurses independence to practice without a physician's supervision.


North Carolina is one of a dozen states that hasn't accepted Medicaid coverage for healthy adults who make too much money to receive conventional Medicaid coverage but not enough to access highly-subsidized private insurance.


The federal government pays 90% of the costs to cover expansion enrollees. The state also could get an extra $1.5 billion over two years through a financial sweetener in a COVID-19 federal relief package.


The House bill also would direct the state to participate in a program that would result in higher reimbursements for hospital systems when they treat Medicaid patients. And it lays out efforts to help Medicaid recipients access workforce development initiatives as they seek to return to employment or establish new careers.


Berger pointed out that the House measure contains a provision that would void the act if it became law should no state budget law get enacted this calendar year. He suggested such a condition could further complicate negotiations with the House on a package of health care changes

LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES 

The U.S. shot down three mysterious flying objects over the weekend.

• What to know: One was downed over Alaska on Friday. Another was shot over Canada on Saturday. Then one more was taken down over Lake Huron yesterday.

• What are they? Military officials either don’t know or aren’t saying. They’ve been watching the skies closely after a Chinese spy balloon was shot down earlier this month.


The death toll from the Turkey earthquakes crossed 36,000.

• The latest: Hopes that more survivors might be pulled from the rubble are fading a week after a pair of powerful earthquakes hit southern Turkey and neighboring Syria.

• What else to know: Anger is growing over the gulf in aid between Turkey, where relief has poured in, and rebel-held northwest Syria, where many have had to manage the crisis alone.


The Kansas City Chiefs won their second Super Bowl in four seasons.

• How it ended: With a dominant second half by Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. Down 10 points at halftime last night in Arizona, Kansas City roared back to beat Philadelphia, 38-35.

• What else we learned: Rihanna is pregnant with her second child. The halftime performer wore a bright red jumpsuit that showed a baby bump, and confirmed the pregnancy afterward.


The FBI found another document with classified markings at Mike Pence’s home.

• What to know: Officials carried out a five-hour search of the former vice president’s house in Indiana on Friday. They also took six other pages that did not have classified markings.

• The bigger picture: The planned search came after other classified papers were found at the homes of Pence, President Biden and former president Donald Trump.


Trugoy the Dove, the co-founder of hip-hop group De La Soul, has died.

• How we’ll remember him: As part of the legendary trio that helped change the sound of hip-hop, starting with debut album “3 Feet High and Rising” in 1989.

• What we know: A representative for the 54-year-old, whose real name was David Jolicoeur, announced his death yesterday.


The IRS cleared up confusion over how to tax state stimulus payments.

• The background: The agency previously asked some taxpayers to hold off on filing returns until it worked out whether these state payments were subject to federal taxes.

• What’s new? It said Friday that it will not collect taxes against most state-issued inflation relief or tax refunds, meaning millions of people in more than 20 states can go ahead with their returns.


Washing machines and fridges could soon be much cheaper to power.

• Why? The Biden administration proposed new rules for freezers, refrigerators and washing machines to reduce emissions and save people money.

• How much cheaper? People would save an average of $295 over the life of a new washer and $130 with a new refrigerator, officials said.

• The timeline: The rules, announced Friday, could come into effect as soon as 202

UPCOMING EVENTS
Black Issues Forum

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


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


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


Link to the Show:

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

PBS NC

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

NC Channel

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

Feb 16th 7- 10 pm IT Serve Raleigh Chapter Networking Meeting!  


Parkside Commons Marriot, 1008 Parkside Main St, Cary, NC 27519. 

Feb 18th Town of Cary Black History Panel at 9 am with Tru Pettigrew.  


Cary Arts Center 

Feb 23 Tie Carolinas Venture Investing Social

at Fortnight Brewery at 1006 Southwest Maynard Road, Cary, 27511.  

5:45 pm to 8:15 pm 

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

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

Sunday at 4 pm for our Radio Nyra Interview

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

Radio / TV
Radio NYRA

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



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


99.9FM HD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM! 

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

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

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