July 27, 2022 Daily Headlines

On Monday, Governor Hochul announced that $70 million in funding was awarded to child care programs in areas without enough child care capacity, known as child care deserts. The funds are part of the $100 million Child Care Desert Initiative, which will help child care providers that are newly licensed, registered, or permitted. The funds will assist providers in underserved areas to build their programs, cover costs, recruit and train staff, and support staff in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Governor Hochul also called attention to new legislation that exempts adult and children's diapers from all sales and use taxes. For more information, visit governor.ny.gov. 

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Yesterday, the Tompkins County Health Department reported the county’s 64th death from COVID-19. According to the Ithaca Voice, it is the first death since June 14th and the fourth death since May. The health department has confirmed 20 to 30 positive cases over the past several days, on top of additional self-reported cases. Currently, seven people are hospitalized with COVID in the area, the highest number of hospitalizations since June 4th. However, COVID cases locally remain relatively low despite some fluctuation. 

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On July 1st, Gimme! Coffee became an employee-owned cooperative. According to 14850.com, 50% of eligible employees have signed on as co-owner. A share of the company costs $1,300 which employees can pay off with a $25 a week payroll deduction or all at once. Wendell Roth, a lead barista, employee-owner, and member on the board of directors, joined Gimme! four years ago because of their commitment to the community and sustainability. Roth said, “We have employee-owners at every level of the company. I feel very proud of that.”