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NATIONAL BUSINESS WEEK AND CRIME UPDATE EDITION:

From the Council Office of Steve Rao

April 30, 2024

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes.

My Small Business Message:

https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/418026291181228



May kicks off Asian American Heritage Month so my next newsletter will focus on the importance of this month and recognize the historic contributions of Asian Americans to our region, state and nation. In preparation for the Smart Cities Conference and my AI Summit with John Chambers, I will also be discussing these two events and topics in more detail!

Finally, over the past few weeks, I have received a number of calls and emails regarding burglaries in Kitts Creek in Morrisville and also Morrisville and Cary Neighborhoods. Please visit the Crime Alert Section for my update on this issue.

TRIANGLE AI SUMMIT AND FIRESIDE CHAT WITH JOHN CHAMBERS

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 AI and what it means for our economy, the future of work.


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 (Now a Venture Investor at JC2 Ventures) During this hybrid event, we will also hear from NC Secretary of Technology Jim Weaver, and Allen Thomas, SBA Southeast Director. (He will be there to talk about loan and captial opportunities for small business and start ups!) We are hoping Secretary of State Marshall will also be able to attend this event! (waiting for her confirmation)



Please register for this event at at https://bit.ly/triangle-ai-summit! For those who want to attend Virtually, a Zoom Link will be sent to all who register.


This event will also be streamed at https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/ and wptf.com and aired on Radio Nyra (99.9FMHD4) and WPTF Radio. (680 AM and 98.5 FM)

APRIL 30TH AFFORDABLE HOUSING UPDATE

The Wake County Housing Affordability & Community Revitalization Department will be providing a public information session on their Home Rehabilitation and Affordable Home Ownership programs on April 30, at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall Council Chambers (100 Town Hall Dr.).


This session will cover eligibility requirements and income limitations for both programs, as well as other services and resources offered through Wake County for affordable housing, followed by a Q&A session. There is no registration required for this event. For additional information please contact Danielle Kittredge at (919) 463-6927 or dkittredge@morrisvillenc.gov.


AFFORDABLE HOUSING SURVEY: The #WakeCounty Housing Affordability and Community Revitalization Department is seeking public feedback on our 2024-2025 Annual Action Plan.

Your voice matters in shaping how we utilize funds from HUD grants!

Click the link to review the plan and leave your comments: https://forms.office.com/g/AjAz8wF0Rt

#CommunityEngagement #AffordableHousing

DROP IN MEETINGS WITH MORRISVILLE PURCHASING MANAGER

Are you a small business looking to partner with the Town of Morrisville? Curious about the steps required to do business with us?


Join us for our upcoming Drop-in Sessions with the Purchasing and Contracts Manager!

Wednesday, May 1

9-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.

260A Town Hall Drive, Morrisville

At these sessions, you'll get the inside scoop on what it takes to become a vendor for the Town. Our purchasing and contracts manager will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and even showcase examples of the paperwork vendors need to submit. If needed, Spanish interpretation services will be available. Register now at https://bit.ly/4aVrU8g

VIRTUAL SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT

Registration for the #SmallBusinessWeek Virtual Summit is NOW OPEN! Join SBA and SCORE Mentors on April 30 and May 1 for free business workshops, access to resources, peer-to-peer networking, mentoring, and more. Register now: https://www.sba.gov/nsbw

MORRISVILLE SECURES GRANT FOR DOG PARK

Staff Secures 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 Senior Street.

SMART CITIES CONNECT ALERT

Join us next week for the premier National Smart Cities Conference!

Register at https://spring.smartcitiesconnect.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwrcKxBhBMEiwAIVF8rJkvA8H2s4kkDjufFUcFnknX4gAxNz_dRkXRQWSJoHS2Ao

MEET SBA SOUTHEAST DIRECTOR ALLEN THOMAS

On May 15th, I am hosting SBA Southeast Director Allen Thomas for the AI Summit. If you are a small business and would like some one on one time with him, please email me at sr@steverao.com and also sign up for the AI Summit. We will be setting up some one on ones at the Central Pine Cone Regional Offices at 4307 Emperor Blvd, Durham, NC 27703 between 2 and 3pm.

MORRISVILLE CRIME ALERT

My Crime Alert Message: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/3704307229896624


I continue to receive number of calls about burglaries in Cary/Western Wake County and I know there have been a number of these events in Twin Lakes community. The Cary Police Department is still investigating these crimes, and as of now, suspects appear to be driving a blue Toyota Corolla and minivan. In addition, there have been a series of Burglaries in the Kitts Creek Community, and many Nepalese families have been victims of these crimes and I have spoken with a number of these families.


To provide a closer connection between the Police Department and our neighborhoods, the Town of Morrisville Police Department can attend HOA meetings upon invitation to discuss crime trends, prevention methods, police response, etc. Common suggestions I have heard in the past from our Department is to Be on the lookout for suspicious activity (Call 911 if you do) make sure your alarm systems are up to date, lock your car doors always, and keep jewelry locked in a safe and not in plain view. I do think that there is an HOA Meeting schedhuled for Thursday so please reach out to the HOA if you live in Kitts Creek and would like to attend.


The Chief and our Department would be happy to engage with any HOA that would like him to provide a presentation on these or any other topics. If you would like to set up a date and time for our police department to visit your HOA, please email Chief Acosta at pacosta@morrisvillenc.gov and you can also do the same by reaching out to Chief Terry Sult in Cary at terry.sult@townofcary.org.


Finally, you can also check about setting up a Community Watch Program by visiting https://www.morrisvillenc.gov/government/departments-services/police/community-programs/neighborhood-watch#

I can also coordinate these meetings as well if you need any assistance.

MORRISVILLE PARKS ALERTS

Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center (MAFC): April 29-May 30

We are thrilled to activate and enhance the cultural connectivity and vitality of the Town through engaging artwork and creative placemaking. Murals will be placed at MAFC, Shiloh Park, and Fire Administration Building. We are thrilled to activate and enhance the cultural connectivity and vitality of the Town through engaging artwork and creative placemaking.

During this time, the front entrance to the MAFC will be closed. To enter the MAFC, you will need to use the back entrance that faces the tennis courts. Please consider others when parking in the back parking lot. If you are an able body, park in the front lot and walk around back to allow the back parking lot to be open for those with limited mobility. There are accessible parking spots available in the back parking lot.

BREAKING NEWS AND IMPORTANT UPDATES

4 dead in Charlotte Shooting https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/29/us/officers-shot-charlotte-north-carolina/index.html (See NC News)

President Biden to visit Wilmington on Thursday to discuss environmental issues: https://www.wect.com/2024/04/29/president-joe-biden-visit-wilmington-talk-about-environmental-issues

Vice President Harris Kicks off Economic Tour in Atlanta! https://thehill.com/video-clips/4629520-harris-kicks-off-economic-opportunity-tour-watch-live/

Senate approves Ukraine Deal and plans to ban Tik Tok. https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-congress-bill-1c48466df82f3684bd6eb21e61ebcb8d

NC General Assembly starts short session! https://www.carolinajournal.com/potential-moves-in-the-2024-short-session/

Run Off elections underway for Republican Primary, , Lt. Governor, Auditor and 13th Congressional at stake.

https://www.wfdd.org/story/early-voting-begins-north-carolina-primary-runoff-races

NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK STARTED YESTERDAY

To know more: https://www.sba.gov/national-small-business-week


National Small Business Week is an annual event in the United States aimed at celebrating the contributions of small businesses to the economy. Typically organized by the Small Business Administration (SBA), it's a week-long series of events, workshops, and activities designed to recognize the importance of small businesses and provide them with resources, support, and networking opportunities.



The week often includes seminars, awards ceremonies, and networking events to highlight the achievements and challenges faced by small business owners. It's a time for both government and private organizations to show their appreciation for the vital role that small businesses play in driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Keep in mind that in the United States, we have 33 million small businesses that employ 65 million Americans which is about 46% of private sector jobs. In North Carolina, we have 964,000 small businesses, which employ about 1.7 million citizens. This is a major economic driver for the state and nation and critical for our continues job growth!

TRIANGLE SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

As we kick off National Small Business Week, we also celebrate how important Small Businesses are to the North Carolina and Triangle Economy. During this week, we celebrate the contributions of small businesses to the local economy and the Triangle and I am also very excited about the explosive growth and success of Start ups in the region. The recent Raleigh Durham Start Up Week confirmed this very fact for me, and of course, Scot Wingo continues to inspire us with his Pay It Forward Mission and the Tweener Fund.


Small Business Week typically includes a series of workshops, networking events, seminars, and awards ceremonies tailored to the needs and interests of small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Triangle area.

This week provides an opportunity for local businesses to connect, learn, and grow while also highlighting their achievements and impact on the region.

For more information on Triangle Business Events, please visit https://www.trianglesmallbusinessweek.com/.


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!

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

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

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

Mi Cancun! (Visit any of their locations on Cinco De Mayo)

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



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

Kudos to Morrisville Recognized as No. 7 Best Small City to Start a Business



My Message on Another Big Win: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/444612057941842



WalletHub has named Morrisville the No. 7 best small city in the U.S. to start a business. In a recent study, the finance website compared over 1,300 cities with populations under 100,000 people in three categories: business environment, access to resources, and business costs. Out of a total score of 100, Morrisville scored 61.39, with its highest overall ranking coming in the category of access to resources. Our Town is leveraging our diversity, growing innovation in smart cities, and a very welcoming culture to recruit the best and brightest companies and small businesses to select Morrisville as their home. I look forward to bringing an Incubator here and to grow more start ups!

For a list of cities, please visit: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-small-cities-to-start-a-business/20180

SAVE THE DATES

APRIL 30,2024 AFFORDABLE HOUSING UPDATE

The Wake County Housing Affordability & Community Revitalization Department will be providing a public information session on their Home Rehabilitation and Affordable Home Ownership programs on April 30, at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall Council Chambers (100 Town Hall Dr.).

May 3, 2024 Music in the Park @ the Healthy Food Hub 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

May 4, 2024 Fire Open House at Fire Station 1 from 11 am to 1 pm!

May 5, 2024 Pop-Up Dog Park @ MCP 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

May 11, 2024 Punjabi Mela 12 pm to 8 pm at Church Street Park!

May 14, 2024 Blood Drive @ the Police Department 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

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!



Last weekend, we hosted North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall and also Tom Snyder from RIOT for a Smart Cities 101 as we get ready for the Smart Cities Connect Summit! Please tune in next week for great business ideas on these topics!


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

North Carolina Rehabilition and ReEntry Conference

It was great to end National Second Chance Month (https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/events/second-chance-month) at the NC Corrections Conference hosted by Secretary of Adult Corrections, Todd Ishee. We heard from Governor Cooper and a number of speakers on important it is to make sure that we give our inmates all the resources they need to transition back to civililan society.

Wonderful Black Issues Forum!

Watch Episode at https://video.pbsnc.org/show/black-issues-forum/?utm_source=(direct)&utm_medium=(none)

Last Friday, I enjoyed being on PBS Carolinas Black Issues Forum and am now an analyst on Statelines as well. A very informative and engaging discussion with Professor LaMeisha Whittington and Kenia Thompson on DEI, Drinking Water, 2024 Governors race and TIK Tok. I look forward to being back next month and thank everyone at PBS Carolinas for all of their behind the scenes work!

WPTF Radio Interview with Elaine Marshall

Insights from Secretary Marshall: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/459730926575595

It was an honor to interview Secretary of State Elaine Marshall for the Wake County Round Up and on the Afternoon Show with Anthony Dehart! It was a wonderful interview and we had a great time! We talked about the Office of Secretary of State and the resources we provide Small Businesses and Entrpreneurs! Elaine is the Ambassador of Small Businesses and also serves as an Ambassador of some sort to other parts of the world like Moldova!

North Carolina League of Municipalities in Winston Salem!

Last week, I enjoyed attending an outstanding North Carolina League of Municipalities City Vision Summit in Winston Salem. This event brought to leaders from North Carolina cities and towns to discuss a range of issues including Artificial Intelligence, Affordable Housing and economic development. The Highlight for me was the Public Tours in downtown, particularily the Public Art Tours. It was a wonderful two days and thanks to Mayor Cawley, Mayor Pro Tem Garimella and Council Member Johnson for attending, along with Town Manager Brandon Zudeima and Deputy Manager Giselle Rodriguez.

On a personal note, I was very impressed with how beautiful the City of Winston Salem, a North Carolina city that is truly living up to its Brand Statement, the City of Arts and Innovation. If you get a chance, please visit Winston, and I am confident that you will be impressed!

Kudos to my friend Winston Salem Mayor Allen Joines and his Council for setting a vision for their City and seeing it play out.

Great work!

OH CALCUTTA INDIAN MODERN INDIAN CUISINE!

Insights from Bill Saffo and Steve Rao on the Experience! https://www.facebook.com/724976359/videos/pcb.10159537867511360/2192012907825112

I enjoyed a wonderful evening with Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo at Oh Calcutta Indian Restaurant in downtown Winston! It was an amazing experience and the food was as good as I had at the Grand Hyatt a few months ago. It truly was one of the best Indian restaurants I have dined at in North Carolina! Mayor Saffo agrees! I am going back soon. Come with me and try the Tiger Momos, Lamb and other

delicacies!

KUDOS TO BILL HARRIS for HIS WORK AT NCLM!

Thanks to Bill Harris for a great job as NC League President! He had a wonderful year and all of us at the League enjoyed his strong leadership. Now, he is a Former President! We wish incoming NCLM President all the best in his new term.

THINKERS LUNCH/CHRIS CHUNG

On Monday, I enjoyed attending the Thinkers Lunch with Chris Chung, CEO, of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, hosted by Joe Stewart. Chris provided an overview of his agency and his excitement on the manufacturing boom taking place in North Carolina. He did share the fact that we needed to make sure we continue to invest in our infrastructure so we can meet the demands of growth (roads, schools, water and energy) I did spend a few minutes with him sharing my concerns on the recent energy shortages.

COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights from the April 22, 2024 Morrisville Town Council meeting include:

• Proclamation Recognizing Nepal Day

• Proclamation Recognizing National Small Business Week

• Proclamation Recognizing Administrative Professionals’ Week

• Public Works Department Presentation

• Traffic Analysis for Church Street

• Approval of Proposed Master Sign Plan for the Southport Campus

• Revision to Rule 25 Council Proclamation Policy

Read the full details at https://bit.ly/3JAFT7Y #LiveConnectedLiveWell

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY VISITS

EVERY SATURDAY IS SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!


Raleigh Durham Start Up Week Small Business Visit:


Visit with ACTA Solutions: https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/941710874255457


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

THIS WEEK IN MORRISVILLE APR 29-MAY3

Meetings

May 1– 6:30 p.m. Environment & Stormwater Committee

Western Wake Farmers Market Yoga on the Green April 27

The Western Wake Farmers Market (WWFM) offers healthy and fresh food and goods from small and local businesses from 8 a.m.-noon every Saturday at the Healthy Food Hub, 280 Town Hall Drive. Visit this Saturday at 8:30 a.m. to participate in Yoga on the Green. This event is B.Y.O.M. (Bring your own mat). 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. 

Wake County Housing Program Presentation April 30

The Wake County Housing Affordability & Community Revitalization Department will be providing a public information session on their Home Rehabilitation and Affordable Home Ownership programs on April 30, at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall Council Chambers (100 Town Hall Dr.). This session will cover eligibility requirements and income limitations for both programs, as well as other services and resources offered through Wake County for affordable housing, followed by a Q&A session. There is no registration required for this event. For additional information please contact Danielle Kittredge at (919) 463-6927 or dkittredge@morrisvillenc.gov.

MorrIdeas Hackathon for Teens and Adults Accepting Submissions Until May 10

MorrIdeas is an online competition that is looking for fresh ideas from across the nation while solving problems the Town is tackling. The Town will be hosting a Hackathon meant to encourage usage of Morrisville Central, the Town's go-to source of information, through creating a gamification system that aims to blend the digital and physical worlds. MorrIdeas wants help from the public in designing, coding, or inspiring the Town on what the app should entail. Submissions are currently being accepted until May 10, and there will be a local competition held on June 1. For more information or to submit your idea, please visit the MorrIdeas site.

Applications Open for Camp Ignite

The Cary Fire Department, in partnership with the Town of Apex Fire Department and Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department, is proud to announce Camp

Ignite. A first in the area, Camp Ignite will be a five-day summer camp that provides girls age 14-18 an immersive experience of what a career in public safety would be like. They will participate in daily firefighting related exercises and trainings that encourage self-confidence, knowledge, and leadership skills. Spots are limited, apply here.

Yoga Registration Open

  • Yoga Roots is now open for registration and will run April 4 – May 9 and is for kids ages 10-14. This class explores the deeper benefits of a yoga practice and meets at The Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center on Thursdays from 4:30-5:20 p.m. The cost is $37 (residents) and $48 (non-residents). To register click here.
  • Family Tree Yoga is now open for registration and will run April 6 - May 11. Family Tree Yoga is a perfect time for busy families to connect with each other! The class is reserved for children ages 5-9 with a parent or guardian and meets on Saturdays from 2-2:50 p.m. The cost is $37 (residents) and $48 (non-residents). To register click here.

Small Business Drop-In Session May 1

Are you a small business looking to partner with the Town of Morrisville? Curious about the steps required to do business with us? Join us for our upcoming Drop-in Sessions with the Purchasing and Contracts Manager! Wednesday, May 1 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, 260A Town Hall Drive At these sessions, you'll get the inside scoop on what it takes to become a vendor for the Town. Our purchasing and contracts manager will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and even showcase examples of the paperwork vendors need to submit. If needed, Spanish interpretation services will be available. Register now by clicking here.

Music in the Park May 3

Start your weekend on Friday night by attending the Music in the Park concert series. Each month in late spring and summer, there will be a free concert by a local band, offering entertainment for the whole family. Retrograde will be the featured band on May 3. Concerts will be held at the Healthy Food Hub (280 Town Hall Drive) from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket for a fun and relaxing evening. A food truck has been paired with each band for an appropriate match of theme or flavors, so prepare your appetite (and bring cash for spending). The featured food trucks for May 3 will be Ty's All Natural and Kona Ice.

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 5, May 19, and June 2. The dog parks will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Registration is free, but we will require proof of vaccination. Register to attend here.

Fire Department Open House May 4

The Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department welcomes all residents to explore the “behind the scenes” life of firefighters during an open house event on Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fire Station No. 1 (200 Town Hall Dr.). The public is invited to attend. In addition to seeing fire apparatus up close and in person, all areas of Fire Station No. 1 will be open for viewing. Residents will also have the opportunity to freely interact with members of the fire department and learn valuable fire safety tips. Anyone can come and explore first-hand how a fire station works and leave with a better understanding of the accompanying sacrifices firefighters experience as part of living at the station 24 hours per shift. No reservations or tickets are required to attend the open house event, and all are welcome to drop-in between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For more information, contact Fire Administration at wgranger@morrisvillenc.gov or call (919) 463-6931.

Wake County Housing Program Presentation April 30

The Wake County Housing Affordability & Community Revitalization Department will be providing a public information session on their Home Rehabilitation and Affordable Home Ownership programs on April 30, at 6 p.m., in the Town Hall Council Chambers (100 Town Hall Dr.).

This session will cover eligibility requirements and income limitations for both programs, as well as other services and resources offered through Wake County for affordable housing, followed by a Q&A session. There is no registration required for this event. For additional information please contact Danielle Kittredge at (919) 463-6927 or dkittredge@morrisvillenc.gov.

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

30-Day Public Comment Period Open for Wake County 2024 Action Plan

Wake County will receive comments from interested parties on the County’s Draft 2024 Action Plan for a period of 30 days This began on March 29 and will end on April 29. A draft of the Action Plan is accessible online by clicking here.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the Action Plan for Wake County to receive federal entitlement grant funds. The 2024 Action Plan is the final one-year strategy to implement the county’s affordable housing and community development goals and address the needs as identified in the 2020-2025 Consolidated Plan. The Action Plan defines priority populations and describes the activities to be carried out from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, in Wake County, outside the City of Raleigh.

Western Wake Farmers Market

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


Beginning this Saturday, CompostNow.org will start a compost collection site at the market’s information tent. Residents are invited to bring their food scraps and select other items for collection during market hours. Visit wwfm.ag to learn more.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

AROUND THE REGION

Triangle AI and Art Summit at Morgan Street Food Hall!

Winston Salem Mayor Allen Joines is a Great Host!

Winston Salem Meets Morrisville at NCLM!

Time with Mayor Leo Williams in Winston!

Inspired by Mixer in Winston, the premier Maker Space!

Time with Zebulon Mayor Glenn York in Winston!

Enjoying Public Art in Winston Salem with Garner Mayor Buddy Gupton!

OTHER NORTH CAROLINA NEWS

Charlotte Shooting Leaves 4 Officers Dead

Four officers were killed in a shooting while attempting to serve a warrant at a home in Charlotte, North Carolina, including one deputy US marshal and two local task force officers, authorities say.


A total of eight law enforcement officers were shot during the incident, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings said at a Monday evening news conference. He described the shooting as “the most tragic one” he had been involved with in his 32-year-long law enforcement career.


The shooting unfolded in the 5000 block of Galway Drive as members of the US Marshals Fugitive Task Force were serving a warrant for possession of firearm by a convicted felon, Jennings said. Read More at https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/29/us/officers-shot-charlotte-north-carolina/index.html


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.


Secretary of Energy Granholm visits Triangle

U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm visited Raleigh on Friday to announce $18.3 million in funding to support Siemens Energy as the company plans to produce equipment needed to integrate more renewable energy into the grid. The funding is available through new tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act that focus on clean energy projects.



“Through the historic Advanced Energy Project Credit, we are leveraging the infrastructure, expertise, and grit of America’s energy communities — where the workers that powered our energy past, will power our energy future," said Granholm in a statement.


Siemens, an energy technology company based in Germany, has a strong presence in Charlotte. In February, the company announced plans to expand its operations and build a manufacturing facility in Mecklenburg County. The project is estimated to cost $150 million total.


The facility, set to open in 2026, will produce large power transformers, which is equipment needed to integrate more renewable energy into the existing grid.

"This factory will help lead in the modernization and expansion of our electrical grid so it can handle the influx of renewables coming online," said Rich Voorberg, President of Siemens Energy in North America. "Support from the state and the federal government is fostering an atmosphere where it is advantageous to invest in America and strengthen the U.S. domestic clean energy manufacturing supply chain.”


The funding for Siemens Energy is part of a larger announcement from the U.S. Department of Energy, which outlines details for 35 projects across 20

states that are receiving a total of $1.93 billion. She also ended her day on Friday at Wake Tech Community College Northern Campus, sharing her views on the Green Industrial Revolution and the significant Job Creation taking place in the nation, much of it here in North Carolina!


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. Hamas said that it was considering a ceasefire proposal put forward by Israel. David Cameron, Britain’s foreign secretary, said that a 40-day truce was on the table. Antony Blinken, America’s secretary of state, urged Hamas to accept it, calling it “extraordinarily generous”. But a spokesperson for the group said that Israel is ignoring their call for a complete ceasefire. Officials from America, Egypt and Qatar have long been trying to broker a truce in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas, thus far to no avail.


2. Anthony Blinken, America’s secretary of state, said that Israel had made “measurable progress” in allowing aid into Gaza, but noted that it should still do more to improve the humanitarian situation in the enclave. Meanwhile, Israeli air strikes on three houses killed at least 13 people in Rafah, a Gazan city where 1.5m Palestinians are sheltering. The Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, said that only America could stop Israel from carrying out its planned offensive on the city. On Sunday President Joe Biden “reiterated” America’s opposition to it during a call with Binyamin Netenyahu, Israel’s prime minister.



3. Pedro Sanchez, Spain’s prime minister, said he would remain in office. Last week he stunned the country by admitting he was considering whether to step down owing to a scandal related to his wife, Begoña Gómez. A far-right group brought a corruption complaint against her, and a court is making preliminary inquiries. After the “reflection period”, Mr Sanchez vowed to continue “with even more strength”.


4. Russia gained further ground in eastern Ukraine, in an attempt to advance before new American weapons reach the frontline. Ukraine’s top general said that his troops had withdrawn from several defensive positions around the city of Avdiivka. An official called the situation “difficult” but “not critical or catastrophic”. America’s Congress agreed to a long-delayed $61bn war-funding package for Ukraine on April 23rd; the first shells could arrive within days.


5. Japan’s currency slid to a 34-year low on Monday when it briefly traded at 160 against the dollar. There is growing speculation that authorities will be forced to intervene in the currency market to prop up the yen later this week. On Friday the Bank of Japan left interest rates unchanged and issued new estimates that inflation will hover around 2% over the next three years.


6. Spain’s consumer prices rose by 3.4% year on year in April, up from 3.3% in March. Rising energy costs, as the government rolls back subsidies, were mostly to blame. Core inflation—which excludes food and energy—fell from 3.3% to 2.9%. Inflation in Europe is on the way down; investors expect the central bank to cut rates in June.


7. Elon Musk, Tesla’s boss, met China’s prime minister, Li Qiang, in Beijing. According to Reuters, Tesla reached a deal with Baidu, China’s largest search engine, to allow the carmaker to use Baidu’s mapping licence to collect data on China’s public roads. The agreement clears a key regulatory hurdle for Tesla to use its driver-assistance system in China.


8. Philips, a Dutch technology firm, reached a $1.1bn agreement to settle all personal injury claims in America over its sleep apnea machines. The company had recalled millions of its devices over the past three years because of potential health risks. Its shares rose by more than 30% on the news, as the settlement was smaller than analysts’ expectations.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY 7th INNOVATE RALEIGH 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Register at https://web.raleighchamber.org/2023/events/Innovate-Raleigh-Summit-2024-2818/detail

MAY 7- 8 National Smart Cities Conference! https://spring.smartcitiesconnect.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzZmwBhD8ARIsAH4v1gXkHp6sdGy1iRQ-nxockzkP5Cij3BHZJnhKZCKbnLPJa1

MAY 16th NC Technology Breakfast at NC Museum of History! AI and Quantum Computing!

https://www.nctech.org/events/event/2024/state-of-tech.html

MAY 22 NORTH CAROLINA STATE OF TECHNOLOGY EXPONENTIAL! https://www.nctech.org/events/event/2024/state-of-tech.html

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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