Local News for Tuesday, March 14, 2023

New York Governor Declares Emergency for Storm

Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency for today’s winter storm. All five regions of New York State, including the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes, are expected to receive heavy snowfall and high winds. Utility companies are prepared for widespread power outages from possible downed trees and power lines, and National Guard and plow crews have been mobilized. According to the Times Union, Ithaca is estimated to receive 8 to 16 inches of snow through late tonight or early tomorrow morning. As a safety precaution, Cornell University, the Ithaca City School District, and the Trumansburg Central School District have all canceled today’s classes. Watkins Glen and Odessa-Montour schools will hold remote/virtual learning days. Ithaca College will operate under remote status.

Stewart Park Nominated for Historic Registry

Governor Hochul has nominated Stewart Park to be included in the National and State registers of Historic Places. The recommendation was initially made by the New York State Board for Historic Preservation. A successful designation will increase the chances of rehabilitation and renovation funding, and will open the door for potential federal tax breaks and state grants. According to the Ithaca Voice, the park is one of 13 locations in New York State to be nominated. 

State Marijuana Regulators Mandate Dispensary Testing After Labs Reveal Low Potency

State regulators in New York have canceled a temporary testing measure for state marijuana dispensaries after tests revealed that the products had less potency than advertised. The original stop-gap testing measure allowed sellers to cite THC levels projected by seed distributors rather than test the actual THC levels in products. According to the Times Union, the measure was intended to accelerate the growth of the state’s new dispensary market. New York has replaced the practice with mandatory THC testing of each smokable flower variety. Allan Gandelman, president of the Cannabis Association of New York, worries that the new guidelines could significantly raise lab costs for small growers and processors.