Weekend News Brief
Written by Dan Fischer on September 6, 2024
State Attorney General Letitia James is targeting Artificial Intelligence this election season, and she wants New Yorkers to know how to recognize and report fake content online. James noted AI can be used to create fake or misleading videos, images, or audio that impersonate people or candidates to spread misinformation. Her office released the “Protecting New Yorkers from AI-Generated Election Misinformation” guide, which includes examples of how AI-generated materials can be used by bad actors to spread misinformation and create confusion, even about the locations of polls. New Yorkers are advised not to rely upon chat-bots to answer their election questions, and they should be skeptical about emotionally charged or sensational videos circulating that could be fake.
With schools back in session this week, a new push is being made to help protect kids while they’re online. Congressman Joe Morelle and other leaders were in Irondequoit on Thursday to discuss measures that would keep children away from harmful materials, cyberbullying and the exploitation of their personal data. Social media companies would also be required to have strong safety settings for kids. There’s no word yet if this measure will come up for a vote.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is reminding drivers about a change made to a state law. Under this legislation, penalties for people who use a glass or plastic license plate covering to try and avoid detection or toll collection will face a bigger fine. Violators will have to pay at least 100 bucks and also repeat offenders may have their registration suspended for 90 days. The state has been cracking down on toll evaders this year and made more than 450 arrests.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to get the newly updated coronavirus vaccine. New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald signed an order that allows New Yorkers to receive the new vaccine at any pharmacy in New York State without a prescription. Officials say numbers are still nowhere near as bad as during the height of the pandemic, but 3,500 New Yorkers passed away from COVID last year and there were around 73,000 COVID related hospitalizations.
Western New York Llama Fest is on this weekend in Arcade at 360 Park Road. There will be a baby llama-naming contest, llama cart rides, and the opportunity to meet “J” the world famous llama. More information can be found at WYNLlamaFest.com.
The Buffalo Bills are unveiling some brand-new food options that fans will be able to dig into at Highmark Stadium. The offerings include a two-foot long nacho dish and “The Battle Boat” which is waffle fries, bacon, sour cream and pierogies. The other half of the dish will rotate depending on whom the Bills are hosting. Because Arizona is in town this weekend, the boat will have a southwest theme and include limes, corn and ancho spice (which adds a roasted element to whatever you add it to).
The next Holland Land Office Museum Trivia Night focuses on the US Constitution; the public is welcome on Thursday, September 12th. There will be prizes and refreshments. Please contact the Museum ahead of time if you’d like to attend by calling 343-4727.
The Our Lady of Batavia Knights of Columbus is sponsoring a chicken bar-b-q on Sunday, September 15th from 10:00am until they’re sold out. The cost is $15 and includes a half chicken, macaroni salad, potatoes, dessert and a dinner roll. It’s take-out only and proceeds will benefit local charities. Presale tickets are preferred and may be obtained by calling 343-3810.
GOArt at 201 East Main Street Batavia is the place to be next Friday evening, September 13th from 7 to 8:30. Bart Dentino will perform a selection of music, including some original compositions. The event is free and open to the public; however, tips are welcome and appreciated.
Fewer Americans are applying for unemployment benefits. Numbers out today from the Labor Department show 227,000 initial claims received in the week ending August 31st. That’s a decrease of 5,000 from the week prior. It’s also just about what most analysts were expecting.
