FOX 40 WICZ TV - Local News

The Southern Tier Scholastic Science Fair

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:58:35 EDT

The area's young scientists showed off their research at the Southern Tier Scholastic Science Fair, held at Broome Community College Saturday afternoon. The middle and high school students were selected by their teachers to compete in the competition. Some of them tested wind energy, common household mouthwashes and acne medications. Organizers say the competition helps students learn the skill of defending their work in front of a judge. "I think they learn a lot about how to ask questions, how to answer them scientifically, how to present research that they've done, and how to discuss it with experts in the field, said Jennifer Musa, co-chair of the Southern Tier Scholastic Science Fair. "Hopefully they come and have a good time while they are doing it." Organizers say this competition is unique because students get to talk to professional scientists, and compete for more than a dozen cash prizes.

Early Endorsement for Schumer

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:58:23 EDT

Senator Schumer is expected to get an early endorsement from the state's third largest party. The Independence Party will endorse the senior senator Monday, even before Schumer himself has announced a re-election campaign. Comedian-activist Randy Credico says he'll challenge Schumer in a Democratic Primary and possibly on the Libertarian line.

Investiagtion Continues into Kirkwood Crash

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:58:03 EDT

A local woman is still being cared for at Wilson Hospital after a crash on Route 11 in Kirkwood Friday night. The driver, whose name is not being released at this time, smashed into a tractor trailer, causing her car to become wedged underneath the truck around 8 p.m. She was then life flighted to the hospital. No further details have been released at this time.

Ithaca Police Investigate Possible Death at Cornell

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:57:50 EDT

An investigation continues into what could be the third death at Cornell University. Ithaca Police are searching for a body after reports Friday of a person dropping from the suspension bridge over Falls Creek Gorge on campus. Police cannot identify who it might be at this time. A message on Cornell's web site advises students to call the university if they are concerned about anyone they know. For updates from the university about this investigation visit: http://www.cornell.edu/cuinfo/specialconditions/

Air Show Cancelled

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:58:12 EDT

There will be no high flying and deft defying stunts for Southern Tier residents to see this summer. The Greater Binghamton Air Show has been cancelled due to construction taking place at the Greater Binghamton Airport. BGM officials say it would be tough to run the show and operate commercial flights while reconstructing the main and north parking aprons used by air crafts.

Local Business Sells Organic Coffee from the Dominican Republic

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:58:49 EDT

A Vestal woman hopes more people in the Southern Tier will purchase organic coffee from the Dominican Republic, sold through her new business. Emily Kerr founded Liga Masiva, a company that imports coffee, delivers it to a local roaster, and then sells the product at local coffee shops, online, and in New York City. Kerr met the farmers while studying in the Dominican Republic. She says when she started the business, she told the farmers the following: "We don't want to make anymore of a profit off a given bag of coffee than you all make. So it we take our $2 in order to run our business, you're going to be making $2 a pound as well, said Emily Kerr, founder of Liga Masiva. "They were shocked because farmers all over the world may make 7% of what you pay for a cup of Starbucks,"said Kerr. Kerr is a finalist for the Unreasonable Institute, a seminar that teaches entrepreneurs how to make their businesses have a global impact.

Minor Trades in BPD Badge for BC Sheriff Star

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:52:38 EDT

After 40 years of service, Detective Captain Alex Minor is trading in his Binghamton Police Badge for a Broome County Sheriff Star. Friday was Minor's last day on the Binghamton force. On Monday, Alex Minor will be sworn in as the county's new Undersheriff. 61-year-old Minor was going to retire, but decided to change his plans when he was offered the Undersheriff position. He is a Binghamton native who served overseas before he started off as a patrolmen in the city.

Hickories Park Closed Due to Potential Flooding

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:39:18 EDT

Hickories Park in the Town of Owego will be closing today, Friday, March 12th, 2010 at 11:00am until further notice due to potential flooding.

Hinchey Encourages Local Residents to Participate in Census

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:39:03 EDT

Washington, DC � Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today urged all residents in the congressional district he represents to fill out their 2010 Census form, which will be distributed in the coming days. The U.S. Constitution requires a national census once every 10 years to count the population and determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. The information the U.S. Census Bureau collects on the U.S. population also helps to determine how more than $400 billion dollars in federal funding is spent each year on infrastructure and services such as hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, and emergency services, as well as bridges, roads and other-public works projects. According to a recent PriceWaterhouseCoopers report, areas most affected by Census undercounting lose about $2,913 in federal funding per uncounted person. "A full participation in the 2010 Census among local residents will help ensure that New York gets it fair share of federal resources," Hinchey said. "It's extremely important that everyone living in the area fills out the surveys they will receive this month so that our area, and the state overall, is not shortchanged and receives the full level of federal funding it needs and deserves. Our local communities cannot afford to lose out on crucial federal funds and programs, and every single resident can ensure that doesn't happen by filling out their Census form. By having every New Yorker participate in the 2010 Census, our schools, health centers, libraries, community centers, and other community initiatives will receive their fair share of federal funding since the formulas for many federal programs rely on Census results." More than 130 million addresses throughout the U.S. will receive a census form in March 2010 either by mail or in person from a census worker. Households should complete and return their forms upon receipt. Addresses that do not respond will be visited in person by a census worker beginning in late April through July. With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including: whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and the names, genders, ages, and races of others living in the household. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities. As with other public efforts, New York residents should be wary of fake Census scams that attempt to collect personal information. The Census Bureau has received complaints about deceptive mailings that include envelops marked �Census� and include a �census tracking code.� People should review all mailings carefully to ensure that they are indeed from the Census Bureau. Official Census Bureau documents will never ask for a full Social Security number, money or a donation, PIN codes, passwords or similar access information for credit cards, banks or other financial accounts. Also, the Bureau never sends requests on behalf of a political party. If residents are suspicious of a mailing, they can contact Hinchey�s office, the Census Bureau, or the Postmaster General�s office. This week, Hinchey helped the House pass the Prevent Deceptive Census Look Alike Mailings Act, which prohibits non-governmental mailings from using labels that may mislead the recipient into thinking it is from the U.S. Census Bureau. Specifically, the bill prohibits non-governmental mailings from using phrases such as "Congressional Direct Census", "Official Documents" and "Do Not Destroy". In addition, if the word "Census" appears on the mailing, the mailing must also include a disclaimer that it is not the U.S. Census form and must be clearly marked as being sent from a non-governmental agency. The 2010 Census is one of the shortest in U.S. history, consisting of only ten questions. The Census contains questions about the number of people living at a residence and some demographic information about them. The form only takes a few minutes to fill out. For additional information about the Census, please call one of Hinchey�s district offices at 845-331-4466 (Ulster and Dutchess Counties), 607-773-2768 (Broome and Delaware Counties), 607-273-1388 (Tompkins and Tioga Counties), 845-344-3211 (Orange and Sullivan Counties), or visit http://2010.census.gov.

Two Endicott Residents Arrested for Narcotics Possession

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:39:07 EDT

On March 12, 2010, the Endicott Police Department executed a search warrant at 200 Orman St. Lot 63 Endicott, Town of Union and arrested the residents, Darrell C. Swartwood, age 34, and April Lesso age 28. Swartwood was charged with two counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree (Heroin), a class B Felony, one count of Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Second Degree, a class D Felony, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a class D Felony. Lesso was charged with one count of Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Second Degree. During the course of the investigation and as result of the search warrant officers recovered a small amount of heroin, Two (2) lbs. of marijuana, $500.00 in U.S. Currency and several illegal edged weapons. Swartwood and Lesso were both arraigned in the village of Endicott court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail. Darrell C. Swartwood, age 34, 200 Orman St., Lot #63 Endicott, NY Two counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree (Heroin), a class B Felony One count of Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Second Degree, a class D Felony One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a class D Felony April Lesso age 28, 200 Orman St., Lot #63 Endicott, NY One count of Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the Second Degree

Owego business donates $10,000 to buy new fire gear

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:39:12 EDT

The Village of Owego Fire Department received $10,000 to purchase new firefighting suits from Upstate Shredding LLC. �This is the single largest donation we have had from one company in over six years,� said Daniel Gavin, Assistant Fire Chief. The Village of Owego Fire Department is an all-volunteer organization operating from four stations with five companies of 40 firefighters each and three emergency squads fielding three ambulances. Under contract to the towns of Owego and Tioga, the department is responsible for covering an area of approximately15 square miles. �The towns pay us for the contracted area, but that money can only be used to replace actual firefighting apparatus. We can�t buy gear or tools with it. The majority of our funding comes from individual donations and fund raising events we hold, and whatever government grants we can secure,� said Gavin. Headquartered in Owego, Upstate Shredding is the largest privately owned metal processing and recycling operation on the East Coast. The company has a second location in Owego as well as facilities in Binghamton, Ithaca and Syracuse, and is opening another in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Called �turnout gear� by firefighters, G-Xtreme jackets and pants are highly engineered and ruggedly constructed garments. They are designed to offer protection against abrasion, thermal and moisture intrusion and designed to move the way the human body must move to cope in highly dangerous situations. Owego selected black turnout gear trimmed with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) high-visibility reflective strips. In February, Upstate Shredding was named Business of the Year by the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce. The company recently completed a $25 million dollar upgrade to its Owego scrap metal processing plant.

Salt Ban Shake-Up

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:52:09 EDT

It's a move that baffles some restaurant owners. "We use it for marinades...herbed butter...herbed mayonnaise, we use it for our soups," Andrew Nolan, owner of Escape State Street, said as he named menu items that include salt. But a bill introduced in the State Assembly could ban chefs like Nolan from using salt to prepare any food. Violators could get up to a $1,000 fine for each offense. "It's an unrealistic and, I think, a ridiculous way to try and tax business owners in a state that's extremely difficult to maintain business," Nolan said. Assemblyman Felix Ortiz introduced the bill. He says the intention is to limit overuse of salt but if a recipe calls for it, it should be included. Not according to the bill itself, which says: "No owner...of a restaurant in this state shall use salt in any form in the preparation of any food." Of course, once food leaves the kitchen, there's no stopping diners from piling on the salt. A local nutritionist says another reason the bill might not be as effective as lawmakers hope: only about one third of the population is sodium sensitive. "This sounds almost like a witch hunt, and I think it's important that people realize that sodium is one of the key electrolytes in the blood and we need to be consuming sodium," said Helen Battisti, a registered dietitian. If approved, Restaurants would have 30 days to cut salt from their menus. In the meantime restaurants owners across New York are trying to make enough noise to shake up the salt ban right out of Albany. ***FOX 40's Sarah Blazonis Reporting***

Kirkwood Tractor-Trailer Accident

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:42:11 EDT

An accident involving a tractor-trailer and a car on Route 11 in Kirkwood Friday night resulted in a serious injury. Initial reports indicate that the car and driver were trapped underneath the truck, south of Gorman Road. The driver is not yet identified, but we're told that the driver is from the area, and was life-flighted to Wilson Hospital. A cause of the accident has not been found yet. As of 10 p.m. Friday evening, emergency crews were still on the scene.

Libous Announces Major Property Tax Relief Initiative

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:39:22 EDT

(ALBANY, NY) State Senate Republicans announced yesterday the Homeowner Protection and Property Tax Rebate Act, a major initiative to give a property tax rebate to every middle-class taxpayer. The rebate would reimburse homeowners based on how much they pay in property taxes and how much they can afford. The plan also caps property taxes and reduces local costs through major cuts in mandates. �High property taxes are making it very difficult for many New Yorkers, who�ve spent their lifetime living and working here, to stay here,� said Sen. Tom Libous. �And younger New Yorkers, who want a future here, can�t afford a home.� Under the Senate Republican proposal, homeowners would receive a property tax relief check equal to their 2008 STAR property tax rebate or an amount based on their income through a new property tax relief credit, whichever proves more beneficial. The STAR rebate would be about 30 percent of a homeowner�s current STAR exemption, providing hundreds of dollars or more in property tax relief each year. A new �circuit breaker� tax credit would give back 70 percent of all property taxes paid in excess of 6 percent of household income. Under the circuit breaker, a taxpayer with household income of $50,000, paying $5,000 in property taxes, would receive a $1,400 tax credit. A taxpayer with household income of $90,000, paying $9,000 in taxes, would receive a $2,520 tax credit. �Property taxes are the single-most painful tax New Yorkers face,� said Sen. Tom Libous. �But with a solid plan to reduce costs and spending, we can pass the savings on to hard-working taxpayers and fuel new growth in New York�s economy.� Some highlights of The Homeowner Protection and Property Tax Rebate Act include: o permanently banning all unfunded mandates; o reducing paperwork for schools, authorizing regional transportation and providing school districts with greater flexibility to purchase from existing contracts held by other government entities; o implementing a property tax cap; o freezing property taxes for seniors age 70 or older to help seniors living on fixed incomes who are being taxed out of their homes. The plan would be paid for with savings generated from passage of a cap on state spending, which Senate Republicans have long advocated and approved twice when they were in the majority. Had the spending cap been enacted last year, taxpayers would have saved $6.4 billion, more than enough revenue to provide property tax relief.

The East Coast Professional Wrestling Smack Down

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:44:09 EDT

Hundreds of wrestling fans gathered in Binghamton Friday night to watch some of their favorites lay the smack down. The East Coast Professional Wrestling wowed the crowd with some high flying maneuvers and their wild antics. The up and coming superstars travel around the East Coast while they try to break into the big leagues. One binghamton native says its always a thrill to enter the squared circle in his home town. "You know there is nothing like an ECPW event at the American Legion, on Maine Street in Binghamton. There's nothing like wrestling in front of your home town. It's just that much sweeter."--Says Sean "The Hybrid" Carr "The Hybrid" was up for the 6-0-7 championship, but the match was called when his bitter rivals, "Enterprise" interrupted the match.

Police Still Investigating KFC Armed Robbery

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:04:32 EDT

Vestal Police Detectives are still investigating Thursday night's armed robbery at a local KFC. Officers say a man entered Kentucky Fried Chicken on the Vestal Parkway around 10:30 Thursday night, pulled out a gun and demanded money. He fled on foot towards Binghamton University. Police say the suspect was a black male wearing black Timberlands. If you have any information, call Vestal Police at 754-2111.

Rains, Melting Snow Could Bring Flooding to Tier

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:41:47 EDT

After the early spring like weather the last few days, rain is on the way and that combined with the melting snow could mean flooding in some areas. "If you're a property owner, the closer you are to the river, the more susceptible you are to flooding," said Michael Schaffner, a senior hydrologist with the National Weather Service. By Sunday evening, as much as two inches of rain could soak the Southern Tier and Schaffner says it shouldn't be like the flash floods that left some under water in late January, but nothing can be ruled out yet. "That could happen again if we do get rain setting up and sitting on our area for a long period of time," Schaffner said. While residents in parts of Vestal, Conklin, and Chenango Forks could see water creeping toward their properties, the unseasonably warm conditions this week melted much of the snow, helping to minimize floods throughout the area. "We've lost enough to reduce the flood crest potentially by a couple feet," Schaffner said. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't still be ready for a soggy basement. The National Weather Service says the best way to prepare yourself is by staying alert. "Stay aware of the actual weather forecast including any products such as flood warnings that are being issued by our office," Schaffner said. But most home owners who are in flood areas are no strangers to rising water and already know what to do. "They've obviously lived through several horrific floods, 2006 obviously being the worst, but also other floods since then and before then, so in all likelihood, they have an idea of what to do in different magnitudes of different floods," Schaffner said.

Ithaca Police Search for Another Body Near the Fall Creek Gorge

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:41:32 EDT

Ithaca police are searching for what could be another body near the Fall Creek Gorge at Cornell University. This is the third search of this type within the past month. University Spokesman Simeon Moss says someone reported seeing a person drop from the suspension bridge this afternoon over the Fall Creek Gorge on campus. Ithaca police and fire are still searching for the body, and can not identify who it is at this time. On Thursday morning, the body of Cornell student William Sinclair, was found in the Fall Creek Gorge below the Thurston Avenue Bridge. In February, the body of Bradley Ginsburg, a freshman at Cornell, was discovered at the bottom of the Fall Creek Gorge.

Preparing for Floods

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:52:22 EDT

After days of nice weather, the clouds are rolling in and rain is on the way. The National Weather Service says we could get as much as a couple of inches of rain over the weekend. The wet conditions, combined with warmer temperatures will melt most of the snow left on the ground and could cause flooding in the area. The Weather Service says the best way to prepare yourself for flooding is to stay alert. "Stay aware of the actual weather forecast, and that would include any products such as flood warnings issued by our office. If there was a flood warning issued for, say, Conklin or Vestal, is minor, is it moderate, or is it major," said Michael Schaffner, senior hydrologist with the National Weather Service. Coming up tonight at ten... Hear more tips from the National Weather Service. And learn how this week's nice weather helped keep potential flooding to a minimum.

Lupardo For Cutting Costs and Red Tape for Schools

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:52:53 EDT

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo wants to cut costs and red tape for school districts. On Thursday, the State Assembly passed the School Paperwork Elimination and Reduction Act, a bill co-sponsored by Lupardo. This legislation will lower school districts' administrative costs by reducing or eliminating report requirements. Lupardo says school districts have been complaining about the costly and unnecessary reports for a long time. "They've been demanding this and asking for this and we expect it will save them a substantial amount of money at a time when state aid is shrinking," said NY Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D). Lupardo is also backing a bill that will give schools more time to comply with unfunded mandates.

Binghamton Man Sentenced for Sexually Abusing Child

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:06:35 EDT

A Binghamton man is sentenced for sexually abusing a child. 52-year-old Michael Bettiol was sentenced to eight years in state prison for performing a sexual act on a child under 17 years of age, and making a visual recording of that sexual act in the summer of 2008. He also possessed another visual recording of a sexual act involving a child less than 16 years of age. Bettiol plead guilty to both charges.

Armed Robbery at Vestal KFC

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:41:57 EDT

A man robbed the KFC restaurant on the Vestal Parkway just after 10:30 Thursday evening. Scanner reports say the man pulled a black hand gun and demanded money. He fled the scene on foot toward Binghamton with an undisclosed amount of money. We'll have more details on this story as they become available.

Public Meeting to Discuss Bridge Replacement on SR 96

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:53:57 EDT

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will hold a public information meeting to discuss the replacement of the bridge carrying State Route (SR) 96 over Catatonk Creek in the Village of Candor, Tioga County. The meeting will be held on March 24, 2010, in the Candor Central School Auditorium, Academy Street, Candor. NYSDOT personnel will be on hand starting at 6:30 p.m. and a formal presentation will begin at 7 p.m. The presentation, which will provide an overview of the bridge's condition, will be followed by a question and comment session in which members of the local community are encouraged to participate. NYSDOT is currently engaged in the preliminary design phase of the project. During preliminary design, department staff develops alternatives that would address the project needs and objectives. The department also investigates the benefits and impacts of various alternatives. The objective of this project is to address the condition of the bridge, which is nearing the end of its service life. As part of the design process, NYSDOT uses public input, along with other project information, to help develop and refine project alternatives. Two options are being considered to maintain traffic during construction. Use of an off-site detour is one option. Under this option, vehicular traffic would be detoured onto State Routes 96B and 960H (Mill St). The detour is 1.7 miles and it takes approximately 4 minutes for vehicular traffic to complete. To maintain pedestrian traffic, NYSDOT is considering constructing a temporary pedestrian bridge adjacent to the existing subject bridge. Depending on the alignment of the replacement bridge, it may also be possible to maintain pedestrian traffic on a portion of the existing bridge until the new bridge is completed. Another option for maintaining traffic during construction is staged construction. This option replaces half of the bridge at a time, while single lane, alternating one-way traffic is maintained on the other half of the bridge using a temporary traffic signal. Pedestrian traffic would also be maintained on the open half of the bridge. Construction is currently scheduled to begin in the summer of 2013. If an off-site detour is used, it would take approximately one construction season. It would take two construction seasons if staged construction is used. This schedule is subject to change as capital program resources dictate. Some right-of-way acquisitions will probably be needed to complete this project. The exact location and extent of these acquisitions has not been determined however. A representative from the NYSDOT Regional Real Estate Office will be at the meeting to answer questions about the property acquisition process. Public involvement is essential for the development and delivery of all transportation projects. NYSDOT encourages attendance and input as this project moves forward through the project development process. Those who cannot attend this meeting, but have questions, comments, or would like to discuss the project in further detail, should contact the project manager, Brian Doak, at (607) 721-8225 or by email at PIN904702@dot.state.ny.us. Written comments may be submitted to: NYSDOT, Region 9, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY, 13901.

21-Year-Old Killed in a Head-On Collision

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:05:35 EDT

A 21-year-old Chenango Forks man is dead after authorities say his pick-up truck crashed head-on with a 10 wheel garbage truck. "Devastated, my heart just dropped, right to the ground, it was terrible," said Timothy Briggs, a friend of the victim. Friends of a 21-year-old Chenango Forks man killed in a car crash on Route 12 are still in shock. Police say Alan Mills was driving a small pick-up truck heading northbound in the town of Chenango when he veered into the southbound lane, colliding with a Bert Adams 10 wheel garbage truck, operated by 46-year-old Robert Murphy--also of Chenango Forks. "We've got a beautiful day, it's sunny. There's no slippery pavement. Why he crossed over, we don't know," said B.C. Sheriff David Harder. Seth Hamby says he worked with Mills at the Extra Mart a few miles away. He says when he heard about the accident, he knew it was Mills. "I heard it was a Red S10 and was just kind of curious, because no one could get ahold of him. We found out that it is, because of the antenna, he bent his antenna a specific way," said Hamby. Other friends of the victim visited the crash site when they heard a red pick-up was involved. They knew Mills was in town, planning to get his tires changed. "They said it was an S10 and we knew he was out and about today. We just came here to check it out and it was him," said a friend of the victim, Charles Ferris. And now reality sets in: "He was a great kid, did everything right." said Ferris. "I just don't understand why this has to happen to such a good kid," said Briggs. The driver of the Bert Adams truck was uninjured. Authorities are investigating what caused the crash that took a life too soon.

Arcuri Announces Over $450,000 For Chenango County Airport

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:54:00 EDT

WASHINGTON, DC � U.S. Rep. Michael Arcuri (NY-24) announced today that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded the Lt. Warren Eaton Airport in Chenango County a total of $451,250 to acquire continue construction on an additional taxilane at the airport. �I am pleased to announce this grant which will enable the Lt. Warren Eaton Airport in Chenango County,� said Arcuri, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee which is responsible for authorizing funds through the FAA. �These funds will help the airport to continue serving as a point of growth and development in the region. I am glad to see federal funds coming back to the area to improve transportation infrastructure.� This grant will help us install a new taxi-way which will lead to the new T-hangers we are putting in with the help of New York State,� Donald MacIntosh, Lt. Warren Eaton Airport Administrator said. �It is very important for the sustainability of the airport, and to keep the burden of its operation off the backs of local residents. We are very thankful for the grant and all the help we received from Congressman Arcuri in getting it. This is critical to keeping the airport viable and sustainable and will likely save jobs." The FAA awarded the airport funding to fund Phase 2 of the construction project for the taxilane at the airport. This will allow access for planes in future T-hangar development at the airport.

Cuomo Recuses Self in Paterson Probe

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:54:04 EDT

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) _ New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has recused himself in the investigation of whether Gov. David Paterson interfered with a domestic violence case involving a top aide. Former Chief Judge Judith Kaye will also probe whether the governor lied about his intentions to pay for World Series tickets. Cuomo, who is widely expected to run for governor, came under criticism for investigating Paterson's role in the case in which a woman accused a trusted Paterson adviser of roughing her up. Some said a Cuomo probe would be a conflict of interest. (Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Panera Bread First Chain to List Calories Nationwide

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:56:18 EDT

The writing's on the wall -- literally. Panera Bread customers can now see -- on these menus -- exactly how many calories they're consuming with each order. But how useful are the calorie counts? Do they deliver any real surprises? We asked diners, what has a higher calorie count: a turkey sandwich or salmon salad. "I think a smoked turkey sandwich has more calories," said one customer. "Probably a Mediterranean salad," said another. Half of the ten customers we talked to Thursday guessed correctly -- it was the sandwich that has more calories, but barely. Many were surprised to learn there's only a 20 calorie difference between the two. Panera says it wanted to clear up misconceptions about just how many calories menu items contain. It says customer feedback has been positive from test markets like Vestal. "Customers are becoming a lot more cognizant of the role of calories," said Scott Davis, chief concept officer for Panera Bread. "I think calories ultimately are the driving force for a lot of folks." Folks like Steve Falvo. "I watch my calories everyday," Falvo said. "At my age, you have to." He says he thinks listing calories will make sticking to his diet easier. One couple visiting the area says they want to see the same kind of listings on menus in North Carolina, where they live -- and eat. "I think it's very necessary and very needed in all...areas of the country because of the obesity issue," said Mame Johnston. Registered dietitian Helen Battisti agrees and says people should also remember to take fat and sodium content into account. "A lot of change has to happen in order for us to really be able to get some control on this obesity crisis," Battisti said. "And while I think that putting calories on is not the only answer, I certainly think it is part of the answer." As for whether more chains are expected to follow Panera's example, Battisti says you can count on it, considering the public's increasing awareness of the relationship between what they eat, and how healthy they remain. ***FOX 40's Sarah Blazonis Reporting***

Delaware County Sheriffs Fraud Alert Warning

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:53:53 EDT

On March 10, 2010 an area banking institution reported that, at the current time, on-going fraudulent phone calls were being made in the Stamford and Roxbury area in an attempt to obtain ATM/DEBIT and CREDIT CARD information. The details of the call were automated and stating that their card had been de-activated and requesting to enter card number and PIN number. DO NOT PROVIDE THIS INFORMATION. If you have received one of these calls and provided your account information, please immediately contact your bank, local law enforcement or the Delaware County Sheriff�s Office at 607-746-2336.

Cuomo Not Investigating Paterson, Pataki Backs Lazio

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:53:43 EDT

Attorney General Andrew Cuomo will not be investigating Governor Paterson's alleged interference in a domestic violence case involving a top aide. Cuomo, who is expected to run for governor, is recusing himself, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. Former Chief Judge Judith Kaye, who headed the recent investigation into B.U's Athletic Department, will conduct the probe instead. Cuomo's decision to step aside follows mounting criticism of his initial decision to head the investigation himself. Polls showed support for a gubernatorial run by Cuomo dropping--after he announced his office would investigate Paterson. *** Former New York Governor George Pataki is endorsing fellow Republican Rick Lazio in his GOP bid for governor this year. Lazio is a former congressman from Long Island who has collected endorsements from most Republican County Chairmen and many Conservative Party leaders around the state. Lazio lost badly to Hillary Clinton in a disastrous Senate campaign back in 2000. Pataki, who retired as governor four years ago, is considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

County-wide Cab Legislation?

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:12:11 EDT

Despite some opposition from local cab companies, Broome County is moving forward with legislation that will make taxi regulations county-wide. Last year, FOX 40 investigated consumer complaints of wild rides and lack of uniform regulations. At a meeting earlier this week, several cab companies voiced displeasure with the legislation, saying the County was rushing into it, it was too lengthy, and it would cost them too much. However, legislators hope that they'll change their minds. "Hopefully the taxi drivers would be in favor of something, so that everybody's got the same standards. I know they've got some concerns about the price, but when you look at the prices in all the municipalities, it's pretty close anyways," said Legislator Gene LaBare. The County Legislature will vote on the measure at next Thursday's monthly meeting.

Vestal Man Fights With Police after Car Chase

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:07:04 EDT

Towanda State Police chased and subdued a Vestal Man who was resisting arrest. Police say 31-year-old Robert Leone struck a vehicle in North Towanda Township and fled the scene on Monday. Police spotted Leone's car and tried to pull him over, using lights and sirens--and then a low speed chase began. Police say Leone's car was weaving in and out of the east and west bound lanes, so police used spike strips to stop the car. Troopers had to extract Leone from the car, and Leone put up a struggle. One trooper suffered a broken right hand. Police later found that Leone was under the influence of a controlled substance. He faces assault, DUI and several other charges.

Vestal Man Being Held in Jail for Several Offenses

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:56:27 EDT

A Vestal man continues to cool his heels, and heal his wounds in the Bradford County Jail, in Pennsylvania. Thirty-one year old Robert Leone's bail has been set at $250,000. He's charged with DUI, aggravated assault, resisting arrest, fleeing and eluding, along with several other offenses. State Police say the incident started late Monday night when Leone allegedly failed to stop after his vehicle hit another on Route 6. Ppike strips were used to end a low-speed pursuit. Police say Leone struggled as troopers were forced to extract him from his vehicle. One trooper suffered a broken right hand.

Taxi Cab Regulations Update

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:56:37 EDT

Despite some opposition from local cab companies, Broome County is moving forward with legislation for county-wide taxi.regulations. Currently, regulations vary from each municipality, and work on the law comes after years of complaints of high fares and wild rides, like the ones Fox 40 looked in to last year. At a meeting earlier this week, several cab companies voiced displeasure with the legislation, saying the county was rushing into it, it was too lengthy, and it would cost them too much, and also say the current method is working. "You talk about complaints from customers? What about these cab drivers who have been puked on, beat up, yelled at?" said taxi operator Orlando Rivera. "There is an inspection done on every taxi that's licensed in the City of Binghamton twice a year.Secondly, there's a criminal background check done of every single driver, so I'm not sure what this legislation is going to accomplish," said taxi owner Ken Cohen. Lawmakers say new fees are comparable to current ones and the legislation is as much about protecting drivers as it is patrons. The County Legislature will vote on the measure at next Thursday's monthly meeting.

Drag Show Takes Over BU

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:56:59 EDT

Although it was full of fun, it was a real drag at Binghamton University Thursday night, but this annual event was also about raising money and awareness. For many of these performers, trying to make it in to show business was a real drag. "I always wanted to be an actor, so this kind of fulfills that outlet," said Katrina, a local drag queen. "It was an easy opportunity or an easy venture to get in to entertaining and performing without having to put in the hours of putting together a whole show," said drag queen DeDe Kupps. But that's not to say getting ready for a show is a walk in the park, in fact preparation can take longer than the show itself. "It's a three hour process of shaving, preparing, putting the face on, then putting the body on," Kupps said. But they say the transformation is worth it. "I not only can be another person, but I can be another sex, and look fabulous doing it," Katrina said. And while some might say changing your appearance, let alone your gender, is taboo, these performers say the point is to have fun. "It's a performance, we like to get up, we like to entertain, and that's okay. And if it is a way of life for people then that's o.k," Katrina said. But at the same time, it's about promoting tolerance and showing audiences that everyone is different. "People need to understand that not everybody's the same, and diversity is what makes the world go round," Katrina said. The proceeds from tonight's show benefit the Southern Tier AIDS Program.

Medicaid Cap Doesn't Fit Local Peoples Needs

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:56:47 EDT

The budget cuts that Governor Paterson say must be made if the state is to remain solvent will affect many New Yorkers in a personal way. Following protests in Albany yesterday, there was a follow-up at Southern Tier Independence Center in Binghamton Thursday. The disabled say that the proposed capping of medicaid-funded personal care services to 12 hours a day, will bring great hardships to those who try to be independent. One protestor talked of a friend with multiple schlerosis: "She had a job, she had a husband, she went to grad school, she taught college, she touched a lot of people in our community" said Darlene Dickinson, an active protestor. The Independence Center says that a cap on personal services would force many disabled people back into nursing homes and other institutions, which cost more than in-home care.