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GUN TRAGEDY IN RALEIGH AND HINDU HERITAGE MONTH EDITION | |
From the Council Office of Steve Rao
October 17, 2022
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Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes.
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Early Voting for Elections Starts this Thursday, Oct. 20th! | |
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My Voter Registration Message:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/636532341171564
Voter Guide:
https://www.wral.com/nc-voter-guide-2022/20427466/
Early Voting begins on Oct 20 and you can register and vote at the same time!
Please visit North Carolina State Board of Elections or Wake County Board of Elections for early voting and poll site information. (https://www.ncsbe.gov/ and https://www.wakegov.com/departments-government/board-elections)
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WHEN IS ENOUGH ENOUGH?
Over the past few hours, I have been found myself baffled and perplexed about how our country can continue to see murder take place in our own shopping plazas, movie theaters and now our very own neighborhoods. In broad day light, a fifteen year old was able to use a gun to kill five innocent Raleigh residents, going about their normal routines on a beautiful fall evening.
At the end of the day, this could happen anywhere, and I think it is safe to say that none of us, are safe, no matter where we live in North Carolina or anywhere in the nation. Not even our greenways and parks are safe anymore.
How much is enough? How many more of our children will we need to bury before we see the obvious, guns are getting into the hands of mentally sick citizens whose only purpose is to use these weapons to kill as many people as they can with precision and speed. Never in my lifetime did I ever expect to see such senseless violence so close to where we live.
I know many of you feel the same way, regardless of our party or political affiliation.
Prayers and consoling words are not enough. We need action now.
Just as President Biden worked with Democrats and Republicans across both aisles to pass a comprehensive gun reform bill, I urge House Speaker Moore, Senate Pro Tem President Berger to work with their colleagues in the NC House and Senate to enforce stricter gun control laws in North Carolina.
We need a Special Session on Gun Reform Legislation, and a bill sent to our Governor for signature.
I understand that there are many law abiding, citizens, who o
wn guns to hunt, fish, and for sport. Many of them are my friends, and at the end of the day, I would not support the infringement of their second amendment rights to bear arms.
I once heard a Swami at BAPS Temple say these words: “Coming Together is a Beginning. Staying Together is Progress. Working Together is Success”.
These words reflect the true resilience and strength of our nation.
We have sent man to the moon, made great strides to ensure civil rights and voting rights to black minorities, (more work to do), united to respond to 9/11, rebounded from Covid 19 and have continued to be an inspiration to the best and brightest minds from all over the world.
The world is watching us. We have always inspired the best and brightest minds to come to this nation. Morrisville and much of the Triangle, are examples of this very fact. Why would anyone want to come to a country, where anyone can be gunned down at any time for no reason.
We can do better.
We have a choice.
We can continue to be a peaceful nation, one where the American dream of peace and prospoerit can be achieved and shared with all of our neighbors. Or we can ignore what we see in front of us, and see our nation and democracy crumble before our very own eyes.
Let us work together to stop this senseless violence.
We pray for the victims of this tragedy, the City of Raleigh, North Carolina and our country.
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TRAGEDY STRIKES RALEIGH
The shooting began in the Neuse River Greenway area shortly after 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct 13, 2022.
The shooter, Austin Thompson, killed five people and wounded two more. Police discovered the bodies of two victims on a street, and others scattered throughout the neighborhood and on the nearby Neuse River Trail. In total, there were four separate crime scenes spanning two miles.
One of the deceased victims was 16-year-old James Roger Thompson, Austin Thompson's brother. Another deceased victim was 29-year-old Gabriel Torres, an off-duty police officer, who was shot to death at the 6000 block of Osprey Drive while going to work. Another victim, 35-year-old Mary Marshall, was fatally shot while walking her dog on the Neuse River Trail. The survivors were a K-9 officer, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and a 59-year-old woman, who is in critical condition.
While the suspect was still unapprehended, residents of the Hedingham Neighborhood, McConnell Oliver Drive, Tarheel Club Drive, and Old Milburnie Road were advised by law enforcement to stay indoors.
At 8 p.m., authorities announced that the suspect had been contained at a residence in the area. By 9:37 p.m., the suspect was taken into custody after a stand-off with police. However, he was critically injured, so he was transported to WakeMed to be treated. It is unclear how the suspect became injured, or what his exact injuries are.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Raleigh Police Department and the ATF, are involved with the investigation. North Carolina governor Roy Cooper deployed state resources to assist at the crime scenes.
U.S President Joe Biden stated that he and his wife were grieving with the families of the victims. Roy Cooper, the governor of North Carolina, said that the pain the victims' families are experiencing is unimaginable, and that changes must be made to resolve similar tragedies. Mary-Ann Baldwin, the mayor of Raleigh, said that the residents of Raleigh need to come together, stating, "We need to support those in our community who have suffered a terrible loss, a loss of a loved one." Additionally, several other senators and representatives spoke about the shooting.
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School Board Chair Mahaffey Tips for supporting students in times of trauma:
- Parents, caregivers and adults need to first deal with and assess their own responses to crisis and stress.
- Try and keep routines as normal as possible.
- Young people gain security from the predictability of routine, including attending school.
- Reassure children that adults care for them and are focused on keeping them safe.
- Create time to listen and be available to talk.
- Be honest with young people and share with them as much information as they are developmentally able to handle.
Resources
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CELEBRATING HINDU HERITAGE MONTH | |
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My Hindu Heritage Message:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1297445597735315
Since its inception in 2013, the Hindu American Foundation has led efforts in California and elsewhere to recognize October as Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month (HAAAM), part of the global Hindu Heritage Month (HHM) campaign. October is significant because it is the birth month of Mahatma Gandhi and is often when major Hindu holidays such as Navaratri and Diwali are celebrated.
Hindu Heritage Month (HHM) is a global movement highlighting Hinduism as a tradition and contributions Hinduism has made to human society. As a partner organization that supports the global HHM movement, HAAAM seeks to highlight the Hindu-American experience, emphasizing the community’s contributions and challenges to life in the United States, both historically and currently.
Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month (HAAAM) resolutions seek to bring local awareness, recognition and acknowledgment of the significant contributions made by Hindu Americans across the US. Join us in bringing this national initiative to your local community by asking your elected officials to pass a resolution honoring our Hindu heritage so that we can build awareness and appreciation about our community.
Thanks to the advocacy of Mr. Rajesh Gooty and Virginia Delegate Suhas Subramanyam, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) helped enable Virginia to became the first state in the US to recognize October as Hindu Heritage Month in perpetuity.
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GOVERNOR COOPER PROCLAIMS OCTOBER AS HINDU HERITAGE MONTH
A special thanks to Governor Roy Cooper for pronouncing October as Hindu Heritage Month. On October 24th, he will be presenting Diwali and Hindu Heritage Proclamations at two Triangle Temples, BAPS and SV Temple. Stay tuned…
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DARSHANA EXHIBIT UNVEILS AT THE OLD STATE CAPITOL | |
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Insights from Ami Patel, HSS:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/788685072432748
On Saturday evening, I was honored to be a special guest at the unveiling of the Darshana Hindu Civilization Exhibit at the Old State Capitol with NC Senator Jay Chaudhuri, Council Member Satish Garimella, School Board Member Chris Heagarty, and other leaders from Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS)
Along with creating awareness and appreciation of the “Dharmic traditions” which collectively reflect Hinduism and other practices rooted in the Indian subcontinent, such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, the exhibition also addresses a rising concern in the American Dharmic community about the occasional misinterpretation of their faiths, practices, society, and civilization through the lenses of non-practicing commentators who often misrepresent the Dharmic view of the 1.25 billion population and adversely impact the American Dharmic community.
The Darshana exhibition provided a bird’s eye view for non-Hindus and Hindus alike about the Dharmic traditions and countless Indic philosophies developed over several millennia. It was hosted and exhibited in several places locally in NC in Cary, Morrisville, Apex, Winston- Salem, Greensboro, Charlotte area in, such as city halls, libraries, universities, schools, museums, and public events. It was also hosted at several state capitols and on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.
We cordially invite all North Carolinians to the Raleigh Capitol Building where the Darshana exhibit will be displayed from October 15th to October 29th.
A special thanks to the Capitol staff for hosting the kick off event, and to the Ami Patel, HSS President RTP Chapter, Dr. Raj Pavalaram, and the other community leaders who have worked very hard on this exhibit tour.
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CONGRESSWOMAN DEB ROSS INSPIRES AT NCAIA FUNDRAISING RECEPTION | |
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Deb Ross inspired the NCAIA reception with her focus on her work and progress on Immigration issues, particularly the Documented Dreamers and skilled immigration. She also focused her efforts to continue her work on advancing the US-India relationship and securing a United States Ambassador to India and finally, addressed the need for more resources for police and first responders to address the gun violence crisis in the country.
A special thanks to the North Carolina Association of Indian Americans for their wonderful work in advocating for the issues which affect our community through innovative, and pro active political engagement with federal, state and local government officials.
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Very Important Morrisville Updates: | |
MAFC UPDATES
Pilot Master Swim Program
Next Level Physio still have a few slots open for the Pilot Master Swim Program on Fridays at 6:00 am as well as their Clinics. Each clinic was chosen for their variety to reach all MAFC members, their family, and friends. The clinic’s sign-ups slots will open a week ahead. The clinics are:
- Fall Prevention: Monday, October 17 from 12:30-1:15 pm
- Why Posture Matters: Thursday, October 20 from 1:00-1:45 pm
- Defeating Back Pain: Saturday, October 22 from 12:00-12:45 pm
- Running Clinic: Saturday, October 22 from 1:00-2:00 pm
To access the sign-ups, find the correct tab under MAFC’s SignUpGenius Page at http://www.tinyurl.com/signupmafc.
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RACKETBALL CLINIC
GET SWINGING RACKETBALL CLINIC AT OCT 23 from 2 – 5pm at MAFC
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Planning and Zoning to Discuss Affordable Housing on Thursday! | |
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My Affordable Housing Message:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/1116518495640106
The Town of Morrisville will discuss preliminary Unified Development Ordinance options to incentivize the development of affordable housing during the Planning & Zoning Board Meeting at Town Hall on Thursday, October 13, at 6:30 p.m. Considerations for a Public Employee Housing Choice Program will also be discussed during the meeting. The meeting does not include a public hearing, but public comment will be accepted.
More details about the Town’s Affordable Housing Plan can be found at https://bit.ly/3MjhvrI
For more information, or to share feedback, contact Danielle Kittredge, Senior Planner, at DKittredge@townofmorrisville.org.
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Morrisville 101
Morrisville 101 is for ages 16+ and is Open for Registration. Registration closes on Friday, October 21.
Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/MSV101-2022
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TOWN CENTER INPUT PROJECTS
Tomorrow's Town Center Project Public Input Sessions are your opportunity to provide feedback on Town Green amenities, public art, and potential for a welcome area at the Healthy Food Hub. Stop by and check out renderings, project details, and share your feedback with Town staff and developers.
Check out the project page at https://bit.ly/MSVTownCenter
Take a short survey on the Town Center Project at https://bit.ly/MSVTCPSurvey
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ENVIRONMENTAL AND STORMWATER AND STUDENT POSTER CONTEST
The Town of Morrisville’s Environment & Stormwater Committee (MESC) is sponsoring its 17th annual student art poster contest for Morrisville students and/or members of Town youth organizations in grades K-5. Participants are asked to submit original artwork in support of the environment and sustainability. This year’s theme is “Bees, Seeds and Butterflies!” This year’s theme stresses the importance of creating more habitats for our pollinators, particularly monarch butterflies, which have been threatened by habit destruction and climate change.
The winning poster will be transformed into a banner and displayed outside Town Hall, along with posters from previous years’ winners. The grand prize winner will also receive a prize package, and winners placing first, second, and third in each grade will receive an award certificate or ribbon and sustainability-related prizes. The grand prize winner and the first-place winner for each grade level will be invited to receive recognition at a Town Council meeting.
Submissions are due at Town Hall by 5 p.m. on Oct. 28
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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
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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!
Wonderful Interview on Radio Nyra with Leslie Haney from Town of Morrisville on International Festival!
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/980128513381807/?t=15
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Great US Open Roku TV Interview with Andy Andrews!
https://youtu.be/-Uy7aX-M2AI?t=79
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On the Porch with Randy Voller on WCHL 97.9 FM!
https://chapelboro.com/?s=on+the+porch
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WPTF Steve O'Bryan show on the Dream Act and DACA!
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Get with the Program with Gary Jones!
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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
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The Steve Rao App is Here: |
Download the Steve Rao App!
Steverao app can be downloaded at Apple App store by searching for "Steverao" app in Apple store and Google Play store.
Other Way to download the app is by below scan for Apple store scan code and Google Play store link.
Below are two links to download app from Apple App store and Google Playstore.
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Google Play Store Scan code Link | |
Oct 11 Council Meeting Highlights | |
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Highlights from the October 11, 2022 Morrisville Town Council meeting include:
- Proclamations
- Dominion Energy Franchise Agreement Renewal
- CAMPO FFY2024 Call for Projects
- Morrisville Veterans Memorial Update
- Church Street Park Project Updates
- Dog Park Update
- WCPSS / WTCC / TOM Partnership Update
- Small Business Program Work Session
For details visit https://bit.ly/3CQvbHH
#LiveConnectedLiveWell
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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS PROCLAMATION
The Town of Morrisville recognizes October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Council Member Fender presented the proclamation to Seema Kak, Executive Director of Kiran, a domestic violence and crisis counseling agency based in Raleigh that serves South Asian victims of domestic violence across North Carolina.
We urge our community to become involved in efforts to prevent and respond to domestic violence and show support for the numerous organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy, services, and assistance to victims.
If you or someone you know needs to seek aid:
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FIRST RESPONDER PROCLAMATIONS
The Town of Morrisville presented proclamations to our first responders at Tuesday evening's Town Council Meeting.
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Deputy Fire Marshal Chorney, Deputy Fire Chief Lozinsky, Assistant Fire Marshal Mclaurin and Fire Marshal Eldridge accepted the Proclamation recognizing Fire Prevention Week from Council Member Rao.
Read the full proclamation at https://bit.ly/3RUZYYe and follow Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department this week for fire prevention safety tips.
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Morrisville Police Department's Sgt. Penland and Chief Acosta accepted the Proclamation recognizing National Crime Prevention Month from Mayor Pro Tem Johnson.
Read the full proclamation at https://bit.ly/3CQQOrg
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This Week in Morrisville: October 17th - 21st | |
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Meetings
Oct. 18 – 6:00 p.m. – Town Council Work Session
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Become a Town Advisory Committee Member
The Town is growing, and your opinion matters! Advisory Committees offer residents a chance to be involved in the Town’s decision-making processes by providing input on important matters to Town Council. The deadline to apply is Monday, Nov. 14, at 5 p.m. Apply now on the Town website. Contact Town Clerk Eric Smith with any questions at (919) 463-6168 or esmith@townofmorrisville.org.
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Registration Now Open for Morrisville 101
Registration is now open for Morrisville 101 – our free, interactive citizens academy held for the residents of Morrisville.
- Get a behind-the-scenes look at community services
- Make connections with other civic-minded residents
- Gain knowledge and personal contacts to help you become an effective leader in the community
- Get an understanding of the big picture that’s needed to run for elected office in Morrisville
Morrisville 101 is for ages 16 and older. Registration closes on Friday, Oct. 21. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/MSV101-2022.
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Students Encouraged to Submit Artwork for Annual Environment and Stormwater Contest
The Town of Morrisville’s Environment & Stormwater Committee (MESC) is sponsoring its 17th annual student art poster contest for Morrisville students and/or members of Town youth organizations in grades K-5. Participants are asked to submit original artwork in support of the environment and sustainability. This year’s theme is “Bees, Seeds and Butterflies!” This year’s theme stresses the importance of creating more habitats for our pollinators, particularly monarch butterflies, which have been threatened by habit destruction and climate change.
Submissions are due at Town Hall by 5 p.m. on Oct. 28. Please click here for more information, official rules, and a fillable entry form.
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Sustainability Program Shares Positive Developments for Solar Energy | The Town of Morrisville is committed to sustainable development and practices, and the Sustainability program is pleased to share the news that homeowners may soon have more options for installing their own solar panels. Last month, the N.C. State Supreme Court ruled in favor of homeowners involved in a dispute with their Homeowners’ Association about their ability to install solar panels on their roofs. The ruling may open the way for other homeowners to install their own solar panels. Additionally, Duke Energy is expected to offer another round of solar rebates in January 2023. Check here for updates. | |
Information Session on Solar Group Buying Program to be held on Oct. 18 | Solarize the Triangle will offer an information session for homeowners and faith-based organizations on its group buying program for solar energy on Oct. 18, from 7-8 p.m. The free, virtual event will help homeowners and faith-based groups learn how they can take advantage of incentives for solar energy, what the benefits of solar energy are, and how they can enroll for a free energy assessment. Click here to register for the virtual session. | |
Morrisville Joins Solarize the Triangle, Making Discounts on Solar Power Available for Residents | The Town of Morrisville has joined 10 other local communities in the Solarize the Triangle partnership, which will make discounts available on solar energy installations through a group buying program and the use of a federal tax credit. The more local residents and businesses that participate in the program, the greater the savings will be. Visit solarizemorrisville.org to learn more about the program or to sign up for a free energy evaluation. | |
Esports Gaming Set-Up and Play Sessions Open for Registration
Do you want to play your favorite game on a PC? Esports gaming set-up and play times are available for participants ages 12 to 17 at the Esports arena at the Wake Tech RTP Campus, 10908 Chapel Hill Road, on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 4 to 9 p.m. Over the course of four sessions, participants will learn how to set up an account (will need access to a personal email), and then will learn about playing modes, controls, and beginner strategies. Registration and additional details are available through ActiveNet for Overwatch and Rocket League.
We want to hear from you regarding Esports programming in the Town of Morrisville, including leagues, tournaments, games, game consoles, and more.
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Morrisville Senior Center Hosting Tour of Duplin Winery on October 19
The Morrisville Senior Center (MSC) is hosting a tour of the Duplin Winery in Rose Hill, NC for those ages 55 and older on October 19. The tour will leave the MSC, 4117 Davis Drive, at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m. in The Bistro (paid on separate checks), and a production tour will begin at 1 p.m. A wine tasting is included. The cost is $33 for residents and $38 for non-residents. For more information and to register, click here.
Free Blood Pressure Clinic at Morrisville Senior Center October 28
Ask your medication questions and learn strategies for managing your blood pressure during the free blood pressure clinic at the Morrisville Senior Center (MSC), 4117 Davis Drive, on Oct. 28, from 1-2 p.m. Senior Care Pharmacist Casey Baldwin from Resources for Seniors will host a question-and-answer session. To register, please call (919) 463-7140.
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Trick-or-Treat the Trail at Morrisville Community Park October 22
Wear your spookiest and cutest costumes and trick-or-treat the trail at Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway, from 3-6 p.m. Enjoy the decorated trail, get candy, and enjoy live music, sand art, a balloon artist, and a caricature artist. Several local businesses will be participating. Please click here for more information.
Trick-or-Treating Offered at the Farmers' Market October 29
Enjoy trick-or-treating at the Western Wake Farmers’ Market on Oct. 29, from 8 a.m.-noon. This event is for everyone, so all kids, adults, and pets are encouraged to come in costume! After collecting candy from vendors, help yourself to a goody bag at the information tent. Participants can also create their own trick-or-treat bags, color Halloween magnets to take home, and enjoy games like the Monster ring toss.
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Diwali Celebration to Take Place October 22
Join us for the second annual Morrisville Diwali Celebration at Cedar Fork Community Center, 1050 Town Hall Drive, on Oct. 22, from 12-3 p.m. The event is being held in partnership with The Triangle Area Hindu Temples Disaster Relief Committee. There will be artisan vendors, a variety of food trucks, independent food stalls selling Indian cuisine and snacks, music by DJ Chirag, and a cultural program featuring fashions, dance, and music from around India. Some parking will be available at Cedar Fork Elementary School, adjacent to the community center. Parking will also be available at Iron Mountain, 826 Church Street, and there will be a shuttle bus taking participants to the celebration.
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Residents Encouraged to Recycle Variety of Materials at Green Day Event on November 5
Morrisville’s bi-annual drive-thru Green Day event will take place Nov. 5, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at Church Street Park, 5800 Cricket Pitch Way. Multiple stations will be set up for residents to drop off a variety of materials to be properly disposed or recycled, including batteries, CFL lightbulbs, electronics, cooking oil, medication, and textiles like clothing and linens. Paper will also be accepted for shredding. Click here for more information.
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Asphalt Repair and Resurfacing Project Continues the Week of October 17
The Town of Morrisville has contracted with Fred Smith Company and WithersRavenel for this year's Street Resurfacing Project. Weather permitting, work for the week of the Oct. 17 will include milling and paving on Somers Drive, Hemby Ridge Lane, Glade Valley Lane, Grand Liberty Boulevard, Bigbee Trail, La Jolla Lane, Leafycreek Drive, Hatchet Creek Court, and Southport Drive. Areas where paving operations will occur will be given door hangers with additional project information. There may be some minor traffic delays while the project is underway. Additional notifications will be provided as work moves into different areas.
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NCDOT Accepting Public Input on 10-Year Transportation Plan
The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will be accepting public input on its 2024-33 transportation plan through Oct. 28. Comments can be submitted online or by visiting a local NCDOT office in person. The local NCDOT office for Morrisville residents is located at 2612 N. Duke St., Durham, 27704. Comments are being accepted on large-scale project priorities, such as interstate improvements, public transportation, and cycling or pedestrian travel lanes. Comments are not being accepted for maintenance-related projects, such as patching roads or repairing potholes. Click here to provide input or to get more information.
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Morrisville Community Park Phase III Construction Updates | |
The Morrisville Community Park Phase III construction is taking shape.
The construction crew will be completing installation of stone for the trails next week, with plans to pour asphalt after that. Additionally, work will continue on installing the concrete approaches for the bridges and boardwalk, and the crew will work on installing the stone for the picnic shelter pad prior to the shelter equipment arriving. Work will also finish on polishing the tennis court retaining wall prior to the stone base installation for the tennis court surfacing.
Click here to read more on MCP Phase III.
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Now Hiring: Join the Public Works Team
The Town of Morrisville Public Works Department has three exciting career opportunities open now. Join one of the only three North Carolina municipalities with an American Public Works Association (APWA) accredited Public Works Department. We are looking for individuals to serve in our Streets Maintenance, Athletics Maintenance, and Parks & Grounds Maintenance Divisions. For more information click on the following links:
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Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center UPDATES
Pilot Master Swim Program
Next Level Physio still have a few slots open for the Pilot Master Swim Program on Fridays at 6:00 am as well as their Clinics. Each clinic was chosen for their variety to reach all MAFC members, their family, and friends. The clinic’s sign-ups slots will open a week ahead. The clinics are:
- Fall Prevention: Monday, October 17 from 12:30-1:15 pm
- Why Posture Matters: Thursday, October 20 from 1:00-1:45 pm
- Defeating Back Pain: Saturday, October 22 from 12:00-12:45 pm
- Running Clinic: Saturday, October 22 from 1:00-2:00 pm
To access the sign-ups, find the correct tab under MAFC’s SignUpGenius Page at http://www.tinyurl.com/signupmafc.
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RACKETBALL CLINIC
GET SWINGING RACKETBALL CLINIC AT OCT 23 from 2 – 5pm at MAFC
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Beginning the week of April 11, the MAFC program pool will be unavailable for public use on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Open rec swim and water aerobics participants will be accommodated in lanes 5 and 6 of the lap pool. Additionally, the Friday morning water aerobics class has been cancelled.
Now Hiring: Join the MAFC Team
The Morrisville Aquatics and Fitness Center is currently recruiting for the following positions:
- Senior Aquatics Specialist (FT)
- Aquatics Specialist (30 hours/week)
Both positions provide benefits. Learn more and apply here.
The Town is offering financial incentives for part-time lifeguards who can work during the day in the off-season. Experienced swim instructors, as well as, day and early evening desk staff are needed. Learn more and apply here.
Free Lending Library Installed at Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center
The Town of Morrisville has a new lending library! The Dedicated to Our Community North Carolina (DOC NC) volunteer group created and installed a wooden lending library at the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center over this past weekend. The DOC NC team has pledged to build, paint and install several little libraries on different locations within Morrisville. Stop by the new library and pick up a book on your way to getting your exercise in!
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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
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MAFC Smart Shuttle Node Now Available |
The Morrisville Smart Shuttle node at the Morrisville Aquatics and Fitness Center is now open and available for rides.
With the new MAFC node, the service will connect residents with 15 locations in Morrisville. An additional node is located at the Regional Transit Center near RTP. A Morrisville Smart Shuttle rider can arrange their pick-up and drop-off from their computer or smartphone. Learn more and download the app here.
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Shop Local at the Western Wake Farmers’ Market |
The Western Wake Farmers' Market (WWFM) offers healthy and fresh food, goods, and live music from small and local businesses from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (summer hours) every Saturday.
Visit http://wwfm.ag/ to see a complete list of local vendors and shop local!
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Lady of Lourdes
Visit with Lady of Lourdes Church in Apex!
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Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day
Enjoyed Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day at Cedar Fork Elementary!
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Small Business Listening Tour: | |
This week I continued by Small Business Listening Tour with visits to a few Small Businesses. Send me an email at sr@steverao.com to book a Business Listening visit to your company. | |
Royal Cheesecake Factory: |
Royal Cheesecake Factory:
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GLOBAL AND NATIONAL UPDATES: | |
THE LATEST NEWS AND WEEK AHEAD | |
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The Jan. 6 committee voted to subpoena Donald Trump yesterday.
• Why? It’s a dramatic attempt to force the former president to testify. It came at the end of what was likely the House committee’s final public hearing about the 2021 Capitol attack.
• Key takeaways: There was new evidence that Trump knew he lost the 2020 election, despite what he said in public, and that he might have approved of the rioters’ actions.
• What’s next: The committee will release a written report of its evidence before the end of the year.
The Supreme Court refused to intervene in the Mar-a-Lago search case.
• The issue: Justices yesterday denied Trump’s request to put classified documents found during a search of his Florida home back into a potentially long review process.
• Why this matters: Trump is being investigated for potentially mishandling government information after he left the White House, and his team has been trying to delay investigators.
The Parkland school shooter was spared the death penalty yesterday.
• What to know: A jury recommended life in prison for Nikolas Cruz, who killed 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida four years ago, when he was 19.
• His sentencing trial lasted for three months, with weeks of emotional testimony and debate over capital punishment and mental illness.
A shooting in North Carolina left at least five people dead.
• What we know: A gunman opened fire in a Raleigh neighborhood yesterday. An off-duty police officer was among the fatalities, and multiple people were injured.
• The suspect: A juvenile was detained nearly five hours after the shooting began, police said.
Food, rent and health care continued to get more expensive last month.
• What to know: Prices were up 8.2% in September compared with a year ago and up 0.4% from August, according to new numbers. That’s a slight slowdown from the summer but still at four-decade highs.
• What else to know: To keep up with inflation, Social Security checks to seniors will increase by 8.7% next year, about $145 per month on average.
Long covid can set you back a decade in exercise gains.
• What that means: People with long covid have lower endurance and find working out much harder than people of similar ages who caught covid but recovered, a new study found.
• What experts say: That this phenomenon, called exercise intolerance, should be considered a symptom of long covid, which afflicts millions of Americans.
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President Biden Declares FEMA Declaration for North Carolina
President Joe Biden has approved an Emergency Declaration for North Carolina which will free up funds for hurricane relief.
FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to North Carolina to supplement the state, tribal, and local response efforts to Hurricane Ian.
The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts related to Ian for all 100 North Carolina counties and the lands of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
FEMA can provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources needed to alleviate the impacts of Ian.
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Wake County Schools Policy on Equity
Wake County’s focus on equity drew praise and criticism this week as the school district tries to develop a new policy it says will help educate students who’ve historically been marginalized.
Equity and cultural diversity were recurring themes at this week’s school board meeting as Wake continues to develop an equity policy. The board also honored the upcoming Indigenous Peoples’ Day and approved a new strategic plan framework that includes using “equity-focused practices” as part of its foundation.
“I am here filled with hope that this equity policy discussed here today will come to fruition with the updated inclusive language of our LGBTQ students, our special-education students, our English language learners,” said Kristel Behrend, the librarian at Knightdale High School. “This policy has the potential to define how WCPSS views equity.”
But some school board critics accused Wake of sacrificing education for politics.
“Is the school system supposed to teach facts or feelings?” said Julie Page, chairwoman of the Wake County chapter of Moms for Liberty. “Instead of focusing on educating children, this school board seems hell bent on being a trendy boutique for the far-left radical extremist socialist movements.”
The policy says Wake will take steps such as:
- Identifying and providing high quality instructional materials and methods that “represent the rich diversity of our nation, respect the legitimacy of different cultures, and empower students to value diverse perspectives.
- Recruiting and retaining racially and linguistically diverse and culturally competent administrative, instructional and support personnel.
- Eliminating practices that lead to the over- or under-representation of any student group compared to peers in areas such as special education, student discipline, academically or intellectually gifted programs, advanced coursework and Advanced Placement courses.
The policy also says the district’s strategic plan should embrace the principle of equity as a key feature.
Stay tuned for what is to come on this Policy.
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Wake County Leaders Discuss Gun Ordinance
Monday night, Wake County leaders hashed out even more details for the proposed changes to the ordinance for personal firearms in unincorporated areas of the county.
The Wake County Sheriff’s Office responded to 1,137 calls for firearm concerns in 2020, another 752 calls in 2021, and then 376 calls as of August this year.
Recently, residents in Knightdale have reported stray bullets hitting homes and fences.
Now, elected leaders are looking at how to protect homeowners while regulating target practice on private properties.
Wake County wants to require backstops, up the fine to 500 dollars and increase the shooting distance to another structure from 100 to 300 yards.
While most changes were agreed upon, the distance requirements remain the biggest debate among county leaders.
“If we go to that across the board, 300 yards, 900 feet, we are seriously limiting, all the sudden, who can shoot firearms on their property,” Susan Evans said. “I know it would make us feel good, but I think we have to balance that with what makes sense for the community.”
Some commissioners recommended conditions, such as shooting at shorter distances if a backstop is in place or requiring neighbor permission for any shooting less than 300 feet.
“I would like to see the distance increased,” vice chair Shinica Thomas said. “Maybe we can agree that it’s not as much as 300 yards, but it has to be more than 100.”
Furthermore, Commissioner Matt Calabria said any changes need to be backed up by law enforcement.
“Whatever laws we pass must be enforceable, and they must be enforced,” Calabria said. “So whatever you need, you let us know but it has to be enforced.”
Sheriff’s office majors explained enforcement is hard on large, rural properties, especially alone and at night. But they provided ways the new ordinance could help deputies keep better tabs on offenders, such as having specific times overnight to restrict gunfire; and spelling out what is, and is not, an adequate backstop to keep bullets on the property.
“Some bullets can travel a whole lot further than 300 yards, I really think that the key is to instill upon people to have a backstop,” Major Scott Earp said.
The county plans to bring official changes before commissioners next Monday, then consider a vote adopting amendments on Nov. 9.
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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
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PBS NC
- Fridays at 7 p.m. (premiere)
- Sundays at 4 p.m.
- Thursdays at 1:30 a.m.
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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.
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Sunday at 4 pm for our Radio Nyra Interview | |
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 me every Sunday at 4pm for a new show. 99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!
Wonderful Interview on Radio Nyra with Leslie Haney from Town of Morrisville on International Festival!
https://www.facebook.com/steve.s.rao/videos/980128513381807/?t=15
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TAHTS HEALTHFAIR
Registration for TAHTS HEALTHFAIR began Sept 1.
Fair is Oct. 22 at HSNC from 9 am to 1 pm!
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OCTOBER 22 Noon -3p Morrisville Diwali Celebration
OCTOBER 22 Morrisville Diwali Celebration from 12 pm to 3 pm at Cedar Fork Community Center!
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OCTOBER 22 Trick or Treat the Trail from 3pm to 6 pm!
October 29 Trick-or-Treating Offered at the Farmers' Market
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Radio NYRA
Join me Sunday 4 PM on Radio NYRA for another update on local issues.
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99.9FMHD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM! Listen at www.radionyrausa.com!
99.9FM HD4, 101.9 FM and 1490 AM!
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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.
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Council Member Rao holds office hours on Friday from 12:00-1:00 PM by appointment only at 100 Town Hall Drive in Morrisville.
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Council Member Steve Rao
Town of Morrisville
Dedicated to transforming Morrisville into an ideal place to work and raise a family!
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