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Christmas Edition:

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

December 24, 2023

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes.

BREAKING NEWS

Gun tragedy in Prague kills 14



https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/21/europe/prague-university-shooting-intl/index.html

UN Security Council passes compromise resolution/ US abstains and Israel continues attacks.


https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/22/politics/un-security-council-resolution-israel-gaza-resolution/index.html

IMPORTANT UPDATES

Town of Morrisville named as one of the most welcoming cities by World Atlas.

(See Highlights of the week) 


Former Wake County Commission Chair Jessica Holmes sworn in as North Carolina State Auditor.

(See Highlights Of The Week)

Council member Satish Garimella becomes Mayor Pro Tem!

New Council Sworn in!

(See Highlights Of The Week)

CONGRESSMAN WILEY NICKEL WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION


My Remarks at Press Conference: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1536597577108098


Congressman Wiley Nickel announced last week he will not be running for re- election and may run for the U.S. Senate in 2026. I was honored to kick off his Press Conference at the Matthews House in Cary attended by a number of elected officials. Wiley has had a great start to the Congress and he and his outstanding staff have served his constituents well. It was an honor serve on his campaign and to get know all his family, especially, Caroline, his kids Adeline and Prescott, his mom Leslie, and in laws Rose and Steve.

I know he will be back soon! The Force is Strong in this one!

HOMETOWN HEROES

Indian American Community Leader Dr. Subash Gumber receives Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Governor Cooper.

(More on his achievements and contributions in my next newsletter)

Congratulations to Vimal Kolappa for being sworn into UNC Board of Trustees for a 4 year term!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

My Holiday Message:


https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JSSZSfNX9GbOCJHqNHNQRtFiFsRprXSr/view


Komal, Sonia, Rayan and I wish all Christians a Very Joyful Christmas and a Happy Holidays to all! We pray for any family who has lost a loved one or anyone, who is battling illness and also, for our brave soldiers wherever they may be.

It has been a great year and in Morrisville, we continue to accomplish so much in the All American City.

Enjoy your time with your families and friends, and be safe.


Wishing all of you a Happy Holidays and see you in 2023!

I will be sending an End of Year newsletter next week!



TRACK SANTA CLAUSE at https://www.noradsanta.org/en/

SAVE THE DATE

JAN 1- New Year Day walk with Mayor TJ


Mayor TJ is organizing a New Year Day Walk at the Healthy Food Hub at 11am for a relaxed 2 mile walk up Town Hall Drive and along the Indian Creek Greenway (we will go one mile and turn around and walk back).


Back at the Healthy Food Hub plan to hang out and make new acquaintances or try your hand at Disc Golf (I will have discs to lend out so you can give it a try.)


If you wish, bring some non-perishable items to help restock the Dorcas Food Pantry (not required to participate.)


Thanks to TJ for hosting this walk! https://dorcasnc.org/donate/#donate-fo

Dec 29th 7PM- PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum End of Year Commentary! Channel 4!


Enjoy my WRAL Tech Wire Blog on Triangle Start Ups!


https://wraltechwire.com/2023/12/22/closing-the-book-on-triangles-innovation-economy-for-23-yes-some-tough-times-but-many-bright-spots/



REMEMBER TO SHOP LOCAL

Chamber Shop Local Message:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbFCLIc6qXw


During the Holidays, do what you can to shop local and support our small businesses. Over the past week, I visited a few shops and stores and encourage you to visit these local shops in Morrisville or in whatever Town you live in.


There are over 950,000 small businesses in North Carolina and they employ over 1.7 million people.


Lets shop local and grow our economies!


HOLIDAY 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


Full Steam Brewery at Box Yard RTP:


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

TOWN OF MORRISVILLE HOLIDAY HOURS

  • The Town of Morrisville administrative offices will be closed Monday, Dec. 25 – Wednesday, Dec. 27 for the Christmas holiday.


  • The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center will be closed Sunday, Dec. 24 – Tuesday, Dec. 26. On Wednesday, Dec. 27-Friday, Dec. 29, hours will be 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. There will be no cleaning break on these days and open recreation swimming will be available 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The MAFC will be closed Sunday, Dec. 31.


  • The Morrisville Senior Center and Cedar Fork Community Center will be closed Monday, Dec. 25 – Friday, Dec. 29.


  • All facilities will be closed on Monday, Jan. 1. Police, fire, and rescue services will remain available. For life-threatening or in-progress emergencies, call 911.


SANTA AND GRINCH ALERTS

SANTA AND MRS. CLAUSE VISIT PRESTON POINT!


My Visit with Santa and Mrs. Clause:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/715639833874839


I enjoyed meeting Santa and Mrs. Clause at Preston Pointe. He is so excited about his visit to Morrisiville and I have worked with Michael Landguth and the RDU Airport team to clear his arrival into Morrisivlle at mindnght on Dec 25th. He is using smart city and AI technology to see if all of us have been naughty or nice, and of course, using technology to run a better and more efficient supply chain from the North Pole. I met Santa at the Tree Lighting, and at Providence Place and Breckenridge! He loves us in Morrisville!

SANTA SPOTTED AT MAFC! HE SWIMS and is looking fit!


GRINCH SPOTTED IN MORRISVILLE!

Also, the Grinch was spotted crashing our event, but we locked him up, where he belongs.

THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

The Christmas holiday is widely celebrated around the world, and it holds cultural and religious significance for many people. Here are some key aspects of the Christmas holiday:



Religious Significance: Christmas is primarily a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The story is narrated in the Bible's New Testament, particularly in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.


Date of Celebration: Christmas is observed on December 25th each year. While the exact date of Jesus' birth is not known, December 25th was chosen as the official day for celebration in the 4th century by the Roman Empire.


Traditions and Customs:


Decorations: Many people decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, ornaments, and other festive decorations.


Gift-Giving: Exchanging gifts is a common Christmas tradition, symbolizing the gifts given to Jesus by the Wise Men.


Santa Claus: The figure of Santa Claus, based on the historical Saint Nicholas, is a central figure in many Christmas celebrations. Children often believe that Santa Claus brings them gifts on Christmas Eve.


Feasting and Food: Christmas meals vary by culture and region but often include special dishes and treats. Roast turkey, ham, and Christmas pudding are common in many Western traditions.

Cookies, gingerbread houses, and other sweets are often baked and shared during the holiday season.


Christmas Carols and Music: Festive music is a significant part of Christmas celebrations. Carols, both traditional and modern, are sung in churches and homes.


Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Services: Many Christians attend special church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of Jesus.


Family and Community Gatherings: Christmas is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and share in the joy of the season.


Cultural Celebrations: While Christmas has its roots in Christianity, people of various cultural and religious backgrounds often participate in the holiday festivities in a more secular manner.


Remember that the way Christmas is celebrated can vary widely between cultures and individual families. It's a time of joy, giving, and togetherness for many people around the world.


HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK

We Break Ground on Parkside Middle



Ground Breaking Ceremony:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/244811141789679


It was wonderful to break ground at Parkside Middle, the new home of the Wake Early College of Information and Biotehnology. Board Chair Heagarty reminded us of the great work that is going on at the Wake Early College with a focus on high school kids being educated on emerging areas of Cyber Security, Data/Anlaytics, Life Sciences, and even AI.


Many top employers like Fuji Film Diosynth spend time on the campus working with the students. The other highlight was to hear from Wake Early College Students, who shared their insights on their innovative educational journey! Go Mavericks!


At the end of the day, it is raining schools in Morrisville, as Wake County Commissioner reminded us with all of us looking forward to a new high school in 2027!

Morrisville High!


Jessica Holmes sworn in as State Auditor



Congratulations to my dear friend Jessica Holmes who was sworn in last week as our State Auditor. I have always been impressed with Jessica's humility, sense of purpose and intefgrity and have always been so proud to call her a friend and mentor, even though she is younger than me. Much younger! Jessica becomes the first African American woman to serve on the Council of State!


We wish her well and I fully support her election this year!

Satish Garimella sworn in for his third term and becomes Mayor Pro Tem!


Last week, our Council selected Satish Garimella to be our Mayor Pro Tem for the next two years. I was proud to second the motion. Satish is a well respected elected official, serving on the NC League of Municipalities Board and Wake Med Board, and is very effective on our Council, doing so much work behind the scenes for our residents. I do not have time to sum up all of this work but I will say that he embodies what Democracy is all about, an immigrant coming into this country and serving our community as an engaged American citizen.


Congratulations Mayor Pro Tem Garimella.

Congrats to Liz Johnson for being sworn into her 7th term.


Congratulations to Council Member Liz Johnson who was sworn into her seventh term by Knightdale Mayor Jessican Day.

I have been honored to serve with the longest serving Council Member in Town history.

Anne Robotti sworn into her Second term.


Congrats to Council Member Anne Robotti who was sworn into her second term by Rep. Maria Cervania. I have enjoyed working with Council Member Robotti as she brings such great HR and Corporate management experience to this position along with taking the lead on diversity and inclusion programs like Juneteenth. I look forward to working with you in the next term!.

Time with Governor Cooper at the Mansion!


It was great to spend some time with Governor Cooper at the Executive Mansion at the Holiday Open House after the Tree Lighting. He is so excited about the recent economic development wins we have had in Morrisville, most recently Forge Nano. He also enjoyed attending the tour of Schneider Electric a few weeks ago, where we both learned alot about state of the art, electrification power systems. This guy works so hard, he headed out at 7:30 to make calls and do more work!

Triangle Community Coalition Panel at Bond Brothers in Cary.


A special thanks to Jacob Rogers and the Triangle Community Coalition for inviting me to particiapte on a panel with Apex Mayor Pro Tem Ed Gray and Fuquay Varina Commissioner Brian Haynes at Bond Brothers Beer in Cary. The event was well attended

of Wake County business and community leaders. We enjoyed an engaging discussion about our experiences in local government, the challenges of growth and the bright future of Wake County. I want to thank TCC for hosting informative discussions and events focused on regional collaboration.

Wonderful Hanukkah Celebration in Morrisville!


The Town of Morrisville Menorah Lighting was held on Thursday, Dec. 14. Mayor Cawley addressed the gathering and I was accompanied by Mayor Pro Tem Garimella and Council Member Liz Johnson. The evening included hot cider, Hanukkah donuts, and a performance by Jewish recording artist Tali Yess. Rabbi Yisroel Cotlar oversaw the official lighting and also shared very inspiring words.

State Of Knightdale


I enjoyed attending the State of Knightdale event hosted by Mayor Jessica Day and the Knightdale staff. Knightdale is a growing Town, and I love their tagline, Start Something! I look forward to visiting their Town in the new Year to talk about how we can grow start ups and also smart cities! A special thanks to Mayor Jessica Day for inviting me and hosting such a great event!



(I will highlight some of the companies they recognized at the event in my next newsletter)

100 year old Ethel Holland Funeral Service at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church



On Saturday, I attended the inspiring Celebration of Life Service for Ethel Holland, one of the senior leaders of the Shiloh Community. She lived so much life in 100 years on this earth.

May she Rest in Peace and we pray for the Holland family.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY VISITS

EVERY SATURDAY IS SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!


West Orange Farms: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/328192233499983


Yeet Street Golf: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/998321048133682


Honest: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/292060363818632


https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/328192233499983https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/306550652292803


Raj Jewels: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/725150619517403


Civic Data AI: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/365346692635247


Raleigh Founded: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/369167672162762


Postal Express in Cary!

RESTAURANT WEEK VISITS

Mi Cancun visit: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/308409228553704


Swagat Visit: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1698121553985443


Empanadas and More Visit: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/844106173980842


Woodys Tavern: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/largest-hindu-temple-asia-opens-new-jersey-built-12500-volunteers-rcna119085


Honest: https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159259007951360/661624552701148


Pizza Twist: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1492344328270897


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


TUNE IN ON FRIDAYS at 3 pm to WPTF 98.5 FM and 680 AM with Jeff Hamlin.

THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE DEC 24 - DEC 28

Holiday GFL Collection Schedule

GFL Environmental observes holidays on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, at which time collections will be backed up one day. All other holidays are serviced on your normal collection day.


For a full schedule please click here.

Morrisville Recognized in WorldAtlas

WorldAtlas recently recognized the Town of Morrisville as one of the top seven “most welcoming towns in North Carolina.”


You may read the article here.

Yoga Roots Registration

Yoga Roots, a yoga and fitness program for children ages 10 to 14, is currently open to Morrisville residents for registration, and opens Dec. 16 for non-residents. The group will meet at the MAFC on Thursdays from 4:30-5:20 p.m. beginning Jan. 4 and ending Feb. 8. This class will teach kids the deeper benefits of yoga practice and how to use yoga sequencing to strengthen the body and mind.



The cost is $37 for residents and $48 for non-residents. Click here to register.

MAFC Virtual Marathon Registration Open

As you head into the new year, focus on staying active and keeping your body moving. The MAFC virtual marathon will run from Jan.1-Feb. 2. Participants will have the option to join walking, running, biking and/or swimming “marathons,” and all miles can be logged.


Click here for more information and to sign up.

Northwest Park Playground Reopens Dec. 15

The playground at Northwest Park (998 Parkside Valley Drive) will reopen Dec. 15, following a project to install new surfacing. The Town contracted with Reese Construction for the resurfacing, which is expected to increase longevity and ADA accessibility.



For questions about this project, contact the Morrisville Public Works Department at (919) 463-7070.

Family Tree Yoga Registration

Parents and guardians are invited to bring children ages 5 through 9 to the MAFC for Family Tree Yoga. Registration opens for residents on Dec. 16 and non-residents on Dec. 18. The class will meet on Saturdays from 2:00-2:50 p.m. starting Jan. 6 and ending Feb. 10. This is the perfect yoga class for busy families to connect with each other.



The cost is $37 for residents and $48 for non-residents. Click here to register.

Tree Recycling

Recycle your Christmas tree to mulch trails at Wake County parks. Drop off your undecorated holiday trees at designated locations through Jan. 28. (All facilities will be closed for New Year’s Day on Jan. 1.)



Locally - drop your tree off at Lake Crabtree, 1400 Aviation Parkway in Morrisville, 8 a.m. - sunset, seven days a week. Check out additional locations and hours here.

Applications Open for Community Police Academy

Residents are invited to apply for the Community Police Academy, a free eight-week program designed to give participants a working knowledge of the Morrisville Police Department. It is intended to increase transparency and enhance understanding between the community and the police. The academy will be held Monday nights, from Jan. 8 – Feb. 26, 6-8 p.m. Click here for more information and to register.



Please note: Participants must be age 21 or older and must live or work in Morrisville. Background checks will be done on all applicants.

Stirrup Iron Creek Greenway Feasibility Study Public Engagement

The Town of Morrisville was recently awarded a grant through the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Integrated Mobility Division (IMD) to evaluate the preferred alignment and feasibility of the Stirrup Iron Creek Greenway.



Learn more about the study and take the survey here.

Metropolitan Transportation Looking for Feedback on 'Destination 2055'

The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) and Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (DCHCMPO) are beginning their process to develop the region’s next long-range metropolitan transportation plan, “Destination 2055.” A survey is currently open to gather public feedback on the goals and objectives that will guide the creation of the plan. The survey will be open until January 10.



For more information on the plan please visit the "Destination 2055" website.

2024 Year of Wellness at The MAFC

Make 2024 your year of wellness by becoming a regular at the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC). Those who purchase a one-year paid-in-full (PIF) membership between January 1-31 will receive 10 percent off with the code “newyear24.” The membership can be purchased in-person at the MAFC, 1301 Morrisville Parkway.



This discount does not apply to any of the other memberships that the MAFC offers.

Join the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center Team

The MAFC is looking for a Senior Aquatics Specialist! This is a full-time position with a focus in coordinating swim lesson programming.


For more information and to apply, please click here.

AROUND THE REGION

Gary Jones presented with an Honorary Degree by Emmanuel University!



Enjoyed time on Black Issues Forum! https://video.pbsnc.org/video/origins-of-the-israel-hamas-conflict-j1sd7w/



Great time with Apex Mayor Jacques Gilbert at Wake Mayors Holiday Party!





Wonderful time with Garner Mayor Buddy Gupton and Garner Council at Wake Mayors Holiday Party!

Enjoyed time with Tom Murry at College Park Baptist Church Service.

NORTH CAROLINA NEWS

COUNCIL OF STATE FILINGS END! LET THE GAMES BEGIN!


Scores of candidates filed for nearly a dozen high-profile elected positions in North Carolina where the incumbents aren't running in 2024 because of redistricting, retirements or term limits.


The two-week candidate filing period for next year's elections ended at noon Friday at the State Board of Elections and at all 100 county boards. Primaries will be held March 5 to whittle down the field where multiple candidates are running for their

party's nominations.


Six of the 10 statewide elected officials making up the Council of State — with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper heading the list — and five of the 14 members of the U.S. House delegation aren't running again or are seeking new positions.


The state constitution prevents Cooper from running for a third consecutive term. Nearly a dozen people across four parties filed candidacy papers to succeed him, according to a state elections board list. They include Democrats Attorney General Josh Stein and former Supreme Court Justice Mike Morgan and Republicans Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, State Treasurer Dale Folwell and attorney Bill Graham.


Missing from the elections board list was former state GOP Sen. Andy Wells, who had announced his candidacy for governor months ago. He didn't immediately respond to a text message seeking comment.


State Auditor Beth Wood and Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson also aren't seeking reelection. Wood prepared to resign on Friday from the auditor's position that she has held in 2009. Cooper's choice to finish out her term, Jessica Holmes, is an auditor candidate next year.


For lieutenant governor, 15 people signed up to succeed Robinson, including four current or former state legislators. Filing for the post minutes before the noon deadline was Mark H. Robinson, a Sampson County Democrat who has been running for several months.


Mark H. Robinson, a former Navy officer, said Friday that his campaign isn't designed to cause voter confusion with the other Mark Robinson, saying he has believed for decades that he would run for statewide office.


While the two names won't appear on the same primary ballot, they could if both advance to the general election, albeit for different positions.


"I'm not trying to confuse anyone," Mark H. Robinson, 62, told reporters. "I think this is what my calling is, and that is to help as many people in the state of North Carolina before I die."


A leading candidate must get more than 30% of the primary vote to win the nomination outright. Otherwise runoffs are possible later in the spring.


Three of the five members of Congress who aren't running are Democratic Reps. Jeff Jackson, Kathy Manning and Wiley Nickel. Each of them said it was futile to seek reelection given that the redrawing of the congressional map by the Republican-controlled General Assembly this fall makes their districts lean strongly Republican. Jackson is now running for attorney general.


Fourteen Republicans alone are seeking the GOP nomination in Nickel's now-reconfigured 13th District, which includes part of Raleigh but stretches north to rural counties on the Virginia border and points south.


The Republicans not running a Bishop, who is also running for state attorney general, and Rep. Patrick McHenry.


Six Republicans are running for the 6th District seat currently held by Manning. The GOP field includes former Rep. Mark Walker, 2022 congressional candidate Bo Hines and Addison McDowell, a recent entry who received former President Donald Trump's endorsement.


Six GOP candidates also are seeking the nomination in the south-central 8th District that Bishop is leaving and five are running for the nomination in McHenry's reconfigured 10th District, which now ranges from Winston-Salem to counties north and west of Charlotte.


State House Speaker Tim Moore is one of three Republicans seeking the GOP nomination in the 14th District that will stretch from Charlotte west to foothills counties. Jackson is the current 14th District representative.


Republicans appeared all but assured to win the 6th District and 3rd District seats because Democrats failed to field candidates in either race. GOP Rep. Greg Murphy, the 3rd District incumbent, currently only faces a Libertarian challenger.


One state Supreme Court and three Court of Appeals seats, and all 170 General Assembly seats also will be on ballots. Republicans currently hold narrow veto-proof majorities in both the House and Senate.


Several legislators had already announced that they wouldn't seek reelection. Late additions to that list on Friday were Senate Majority Whip Jim Perry of Lenoir County and first-term Democratic Sen. Mary Wills Bode of Granville County.


JESSICA HOLMES SWORN IN AS NORTH CAROLINA STATE AUDITOR


Former Wake County Commission Chair Jessica Holmes was sworn in on Saturday as State Auditor. I was honored to attend the Swearing in along with Mayor Cawley, Mayor Pro Tem Garimella, Council Members Liz Johnson, Vicki Scroggins Johnson and many other elected officials across the state.


Holmes was Gov. Roy Cooper’s pick to replace State Auditor Beth Wood, who resigned Friday after pleading guilty to two misdemeanor charges of using a state-owned vehicle for personal errands.


Holmes said her priorities would be "being honest and leading with integrity. ... The key is to restore the public trust."


Holmes is the first Black woman to serve on the North Carolina Council of State, a collection of 10 statewide officials. She will also be the Democratic Party’s nominee to keep the job for a full four-year term.


"I will be on the November ballot," she said. "I am absolutely committed to doing my best job over the next year, and to continue that beyond."


I am very proud of Jessica and know that she will bring integrity, and a very strong work ethic to this position.


Read More at https://www.wral.com/story/authentic-and-transparent-new-state-auditor-sworn-in-after-beth-wood-s-guilty-plea-resignation/21197772/


WAKE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES PARENTS BILL OF RIGHTS CHANGES


The board approved changes to the policy that now aligns with the Parents' Bill of Rights.


The new law that was passed late summer requires schools to notify parents if their child wants to change how their name is addressed or use pronouns.


The district had until Jan. 1 to align with the new state law.


The law also bans teaching sexuality and gender identity for kindergarten through fourth grade.


Wake school leaders have maintained that those topics were not currently taught at that grade level under the current curriculum.


The provisions of Wake's policy include guides for academic achievements for children. Parents will have access to review instructional material, including textbooks and library books.


School staffers will promptly notify parents whether they suspect any criminal offense has been committed against their children.



In the past few months, the board also approved additional policies that kept the district in line with the Parents' Bill of Rights.


Read More at https://abc11.com/wake-county-school-board-meeting-parents-bill-of-rights-budget/14203700/#:~:text=The%20board%20approved%20changes%20to,with%20the%20new%20


LATEST NATIONAL AND GLOBAL UPDATES 


1. Israeli strikes on Gaza continued after the UN Security Council passed a resolution to encourage the delivery of more humanitarian aid into the enclave. At least 18 people were killed in an attack on Nuseirat refugee camp, according to Palestinian media. António Guterres, the secretary-general of the United Nations, said that Israel’s offensive was “creating massive obstacles” to the distribution of aid inside Gaza. Meanwhile America accused Iran of being “deeply involved” in the planning of attacks by the Houthis, a Yemeni group, on commercial shipping in the Red Sea.


2. President Joe Biden signed the National Defence Authorisation Act into law. The bill authorises a record $886bn in annual military spending, including a 5.2% increase in pay for troops and funding for the expansion of partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. The NDAA passed Congress with strong bipartisan support earlier this month.

But a funding package for Ukraine remains on ice.


3. Thousands of people took to the streets for a second night in Buenos Aires to protest against the economic policies of Javier Milei, Argentina’s new president. Earlier this week Mr Milei issued an emergency decree designed to revive the country’s moribund economy. It slashed regulations and opened the door to the privatisation of various state-owned enterprises. His security minister has vowed to crack down on protests.


4. Three civilians died in army custody in Indian-administered Kashmir, according to local reports. On Friday the Indian army detained at least eight civilians for questioning after rebels killed four soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir. The killings happened in Poonch, a southern district close to the militarised “line of control”, which divides Indian-held Kashmir from the Pakistani-held part.


5. America’s Supreme Court declined, for now, to rule on Donald Trump’s claim that he is immune from federal prosecution for actions he took in office. Jack Smith, the special counsel who has charged the former president for allegedly attempting to steal the 2020 election, had requested the expedited review. But the justices opted to let lower courts hear it first. The ruling is a boon to Mr Trump’s hopes to delay the legal proceedings against him. The trial is scheduled for March, though may now be

postponed.


6. America said it could support a revised UN Security Council resolution that would call for more aid to enter Gaza. A vote on the resolution has been repeatedly delayed by America. The new draft text calls for “conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities” in Gaza , dropping an earlier order for a “suspension of hostilities”. America has also reportedly demanded that Israel be involved in the delivery of aid into Gaza, so that it can check for weapons. Earlier, the UN warned that Gaza faces an unprecedented and “catastrophic” hunger crisis. The Security Council aims to vote on the resolution on Friday.


7. President Joe Biden backed an investigation into the proposed $14.9bn purchase of US Steel, an American firm, by Nippon Steel, a Japanese company. Lael Brainard, Mr Biden’s senior economic adviser, said the president believed the deal’s “potential impact on national security and supply-chain reliability” deserved scrutiny. The powerful United Steelworkers union, which represents most US Steel workers, favours a domestic, unionised owner.


8. North Korea appears to have put its second nuclear reactor online for the first time, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. The nuclear watchdog reported warm water leaving the reactor at a big

facility in Yongbyon, some 100km north of the capital. North Korea has until now derived plutonium from spent fuel in its first Yongbyon reactor; the second one could provide more material for its nuclear arsenal.


9. China imposed restrictions on exports of technology that processes rare earths, a group of metals used in electric vehicles and electronics. America and Japan have been attempting to reduce their dependence on China, the world’s top refiner of rare earths. America currently sends many of its raw rare earths to China for processing before re-importing them.


10. At least 14 people were killed and dozens injured in a shooting at a university in central Prague. Czech police said that the gunman, a student, had been “eliminated”. Gun crime is rare in the Czech Republic, which is the only country in Europe where citizens have a constitutional right to bear arms—though owners must pass a test.


11. Rudy Giuliani filed for bankruptcy after being ordered to pay $148m for defaming two poll workers in Georgia, whom he had falsely accused of fraud during the 2020 election. In his filing Mr Giuliani, Donald Trump’s former lawyer, reported up to $500m in liabilities and up to $10m in assets. Mr Giuliani faces several other lawsuits for conspiracy-peddling, including one by Smartmatic, a voting-technology firm.


UPCOMING EVENTS

Jan 4th Cary Chamber Economic Forecast 7:30 am Prestonwood Country Club.

Register at https://web.carychamber.com/events/2023-Economic-Forecast-Breakfast-4180/detailsster

Jan 4th Raleigh Chamber Economic Forecast 2 pm to 6 pm at Duke Performing Arts Center.

Register at https://web.raleighchamber.org/events/Launch2023-2458/detailster

Jan 5th NC Bankers Economic Forecast 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at Sheraton Imperial.

Register at https://ncchamber.com/event/economic-forecast-forum/

Jan 5th Blood Drive at Morrisville Senior Center


Jan. 5, from 12-5 p.m American Red Cross Blood Drive at the Morrisville Senior Center (4117 Davis Drive) on Friday, Jan. 5, from 12-5 p.m.

For appointments, visit redcrossblood.org and use the keyword: Morrisville, or call (800) 733-2767.


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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