State Senator Jim Seward announced that $25,000 was awarded to the Schenevus Central School District as part of the Regional Economic Development Council awards. Seward released a statement saying that the $25,000 REDC grant will help cover costs for a merger feasibility study with Worcester and allow Schenevus school officials to explore all possible options as they plan for the best future for students and taxpayers. Seward sponsored legislation this year that was signed into law authorizing advanced state aid payments to assist the struggling Schenevus school district.
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The State Legislature may consider a new law next year, to require sex abuse background checks for people looking to become mall Santa’s. Currently there is no requirement for backgrounds checks for anyone serving as a Santa, Easter Bunny, or any other popular children’s character. The bill is proposed by State Senator James Skoufis of Orange County.
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Governor Cuomo proposes that New York State crack down on retailers who illegally sell out-of-state, untaxed cigarettes. Cuomo said that New York currently has the 2nd highest tax rate on cigarettes in the nation; the law would also allow state regulators to shut down retailers who sell tobacco products to underage New Yorkers.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Thursday it has confirmed 138 cases of E. coli in 25 states. Consumers should continue to avoid romaine lettuce from Salinas, California, where investigations have found a common grower. If the location of the romaine lettuce isn’t listed, the CDC still warns consumers to avoid it. Of the 138 total cases, 72 have resulted in hospitalizations, with 13 people developing kidney failure, so far, No deaths have been reported.
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State Police will be out in full force over the Christmas & New Year’s holidays this year. Police will be on the lookout for speeding, distracted drivers, intoxicated or impaired drivers, road rage and they will be making sure that motorists are buckled up; they will also pay special attention to violators of the state’s “Move Over” law
Governor Cuomo announced that more than $761 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round 9 of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Locally, The Southern Tier will receive $88.9 million supporting 109 projects, Central New York will get $86.2 million supporting 93 projects & the Mohawk Valley receives $82.7 million supporting 81 projects
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The First Presbyterian Church of Gilbertsville will host a “DRIVE-THROUGH” LIVING NATIVITY on Sunday from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the church parking lot located at 19 Marion Avenue/ State Route 51 in Gilbertsville. Cars will be guided to enter the church parking lot on the right. Cars with a working CD player are recommended for the experience; CD players will be provided as needed. All are invited. Free of charge.
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The Sidney American Legion announced that they will host their Annual Kids Christmas Party Saturday spokesman Larry Halbert explains:
(Larry Halbert 12-20-19)
The event will run from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at the Sidney American Legion at 22 Union Street.
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