Weekend News Brief
Written by Dan Fischer on September 13, 2024
New York health officials are taking action to prevent the spread of mpox in the Empire State. An order has been signed allowing people 18 and older to be vaccinated by a pharmacist without a separate prescription from their doctor. Currently, there’s a variant of mpox spreading in African countries, but the good news is the number of cases in the state has remained low in recent months. Symptoms of mpox include swollen glands, muscle aches, headaches and fever.
New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will call for legislation to be passed that would give children free meals at school. The measure would allow students to get free breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack regardless of their family’s income level. This bill would expand access to free meals during the summer months and also get rid of school meal debt. Data shows free school meals lead to positive outcomes including improved attendance and classroom performance.
The New York State Cannabis Control Board has an update on licensing and its new efforts to help business owners. During a meeting earlier in the week, the board announced a new grant program (CUARD), which will allow businesses to receive up to $30,000 for equipment and other things needed for their operation. The board isn’t yet accepting grant applications but is planning to in the near future.
There’s a new statewide grant program to help increase food access for New Yorkers. Governor Kathy Hochul says the new ten million dollar Food Access Expansion Grant Program will help increase food access for those living in areas without grocery stores and options for healthy, affordable food. It will provide support for the development and expansion of supermarkets, farm stands, and other retail food stores in underserved regions of the state while also increasing markets for New York farmers.
A celebration of the iconic show Sesame Street will be happening at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester this weekend. From 11:00am until 3:00pm Saturday and Sunday, visitors will have the chance to explore things such as Elmo’s World, say hello to Big Bird and take photos with cast members. The museum is also going to serve as the home of a 30-foot-tall Cookie Monster. All of the special activities are part of admission to the museum.
The Elba Fire Department is having their fall chicken BBQ on Sunday, September 22nd. It’s drive-through only, from 11:00 until 2:00 or until sold out, at the Elba Recreation Hall at 7143 Oak Orchard Road. $14 includes chicken, salt potatoes, baked beans, roll and a dessert.
