Top Headlines: Mask ordinance extended, Unemployment payments issued quickly

Mask rules extended, while hospital, nursing home restrictions eased
Gov. Kay Ivey extended a statewide mask ordinance through Nov. 8 and also eased visitor restrictions at nursing homes and hospitals. If a facility meets certain criteria, one caregiver or visitor at a time can visit patients. – ABC-33/40 

Alabama leads in percentage of unemployment payments issued quickly
The U.S. Department of Labor says that in July, Alabama issued unemployment compensation in 21 days or less for more than 92% of claims. That’s the highest rate in the country in July. – Alabama Department of Labor 

Macon County wins ADECA’s Census Bowl
Macon County won the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs’ March Madness-style 2020 Alabama Census Bowl. The county will receive $65,000 for education for its efforts to raise its self-response rates. – WTVY-4 

Bama-Bio Tech buys EcoChemPro
Bama-Bio Tech, based in Vernon in west Alabama, has purchased EcoChemPro, which makes an eco-friendly degreaser. The acquisition is expected to create more jobs in Vernon. – WTVA-9

CARES Act application period for poultry farmers postponed
The application period for the Poultry Farmer Stabilization Grant Program, part of the CARES Act, has been postponed. Farmers seeking aid can now apply beginning Oct. 13 at 9 a.m. Deadline for applications is Nov. 6.  – Southeast AgNet Radio Network