I believe that's still correct- first night from Mono Meadow can't be at LYV or Sunrise. What's happened is that, due to the crush of JMT permits and people trying to backdoor their way in from other trailheads, restrictions have been enhanced. Double check this with an email or a phone call to be sure. It's somewhat dynamic year-to-year these days.
Here's the basic regulations and contact info:
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htmBut yes, I would strongly recommend Mono as your first choice, Glacier Point as your second.
Renting your bear canister(s) is a good idea. It's $5 for the trip of whatever duration, plus credit card or cash deposit.
The trick is to make sure all your food, garbage, toiletries...anything with a scent is going to fit in the can. Repackage as much of your food as possible to compress it. If you need a second canister, don't hesitate to get one. You should also look on sites like YouTube for how to pack one properly since you're going to be new to it and on-the-fly when you finally have it in your possession.
Bears are present and active everywhere in the park. Illilouette is likely, LYV and Sunrise are almost certain. Around the latter two, somewhat aggressive at times (defined as brazen and pushy, not dangerous), but black bears are virtually harmless in most cases. Make noise, stand your ground, keep your food tight, and you'll run them off pretty easily the vast vast majority of the time. If they do get your food, it's theirs. Don't ever leave your pack unattended, and always remove your canister if you wander off to the loo, etc. At night, bring your packs into the tent or into your vestibule. They will often come into your camp (sleeping or otherwise), often multiple times and from multiple directions. No big deal! You're not food, and that's what they're looking for. 100 feet away from where you're sleeping is what's recommended for overnight canister storage, although perfect-world most of the time. Do your dishes! Obviously don't cook or eat too near or in your tent. Makes sure to empty your pockets and packs of all scented items. You'll be fine. Believe it or not, you'll actually enjoy seeing bears, even if it's somewhat up close and personal.