3 Arrested in Bath on Possession Charges:

19-year-old Michael Williams of Rochester, 47-year-old Frank Lenino of Bath, and an unnamed 15-year-old from Rochester were arrested on charges of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree yesterday by the Village of Bath Police Department.  Authorities reportedly responded to a residence on West Washington Street following complaints from neighbors and discovered two of the suspects attempting to flush bags of crack cocaine down a toilet.  10 bags of cocaine were recovered.  Williams and Lenino were arraigned and remanded to the County Jail on $5,000 bail.  The 15-year-old was turned over to the Monroe County Probation Department.

2 Arrested after Attempted Burglary of Dunn Field:

2 men were arrested earlier this week for allegedly stealing property from Dunn Field, the home of the Elmira Pioneers baseball team.  The pair, 23-year-old Texas Poorman, of Horseheads, and 24-year-old Brandon Green, of Elmira, was spotted on Luce Street by an observant police officer.  One was pushing a wagon full of partially concealed items; the second was following a short distance away.  After additional officers responded, the men were found to be in possession of numerous stolen items.  They were both charged with third-degree burglary.

Services Set for Former Elmirans Killed in Rochester Fire:

Funeral services have been scheduled this week for the four former Elmira siblings who were killed in a fire at their Rochester home earlier this month.  Services for the children will be held at 4 p.m. on Thursday at the Olthof Funeral Home in Elmira.  The fatal fire broke out early on the morning of February 18^th; Bobbie Kugler and her 2-year-old son were rescued by firefighters, but her four other children – 14-year-old Gage Reavey, 13-year-old Greg Kugler, 12-year-old Kandee Kugler and 6-year-old Kaiden Kugler - died in the blaze.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but the circumstances have been called “unusual.”

Chemung County to Deliberate Repurchase Offer of the First Arena:

The owner of First Arena has submitted the $136,000 he owed in back taxes and penalty fees to Chemung County, but the County Legislature still has to decide whether or not to approve the repurchase offer.  Legislators are expected to act on the matter at their next full meeting, which is set for 7pm, March 12^th.  If the repurchase attempt is denied, the county would take ownership of the arena.  It isn’t clear at this time what would happen with the facility or its primary tenant, the Elmira Jackals, if that happened.

Prattsburgh Board Unanimous on Proposed Wind Farm Deal:

At a meeting of the Prattsburgh Town Board on Monday, the board members came out unanimously against wind farm developer, Ecogen.  Reportedly, the disagreement comes down to proposed changes in the road use agreement and a lack of tax incentives being offered by Ecogen. 

Zeller Not Seeking Congressional Seat:

Hornell Mayor Shawn Hogan has announced that Matt Zeller will not be running for congress against Tom Reed this year.  Hogan says that Zeller is currently working down in Washington, D.C., and has not expressed an interest in running.  However, Hogan did recently hint that the candidate Democrats will likely put up against Reed is a businessman from Ontario County. 

Car Catches Fire in Bath Parking Lot:

The Bath Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched around 8:45pm Saturday night to the Super 8 Motel for a car fire in the back parking lot.  Reportedly, the first officer on scene discovered a 1984 Pontiac Transam with its front end fully engulfed in fire.  The blaze was extinguished in about an hour with no additional damage to any other vehicles or the Motel.  It was determined that a leak in the fuel line was the cause of the fire and the reason for its intensity.

Home Invasion in Erwin:

Steuben County Authorities are reporting that two male intruders entered a home on Sunset Avenue in Erwin.  According to Sheriff Joel Ordway two elderly adults heard a noise outside their residence around 12:30 am Friday and opened a rear door and the suspects forced their way inside, holding one victim at gunpoint while the other was tied to a chair.  No one was injured; the suspects stole $20 dollars in cash and a car.  The car is reported as a white 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix, license plate number EPC 7505.  The suspects are described as: a 6 foot white male with slim build, between the ages of 30 and 40, wearing a grey stocking cap, gray wrangler jacket, dark pants, and work boots.  And a 5’7” white male of slim build and medium complexion in his early to mid 20’s, wearing a dark stocking cap and black jacket.

High Speed Chase Begins in Corning Ends with Crash:

Two men are now behind bars after leading several police departments on a high speed chase in Steuben County.  Police say 20-year-old Jankelli Volquez, of New York City, threw a glass bottle at a group of people on Bridge Street in Corning from inside a Toyota Camry being driven by 20-year-old Joel Diaz, also of New York City.  When police responded, the pair sped off on I-86 West.  A Lieutenant with the Corning Police reports that the pair got off at Exit 42 Coopers Plains, turned left, crashed into the concrete barrier and caught fire.  Diaz was charged with unlawful fleeing of a police officer, reckless driving, and aggravated unlicensed operation. 

Village of Bath to Hold Budget Meeting:

The Village of Bath trustees have started the process of coming with a budget for the new fiscal year and they will be holding a  meeting on Thursday at 4pm in the Village Hall.  The meeting will be open to the public. 

Women in the Arts Festival Opens Thursday:

The fifth annual Festival of Women in the Arts will kick off this Thursday with an opening reception and the “Salute to Your Favorite Woman in History” event at the Chemung Valley History Museum in Elmira.  The event will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and will feature members of the Chemung County Council of Women in costume, telling stories about their favorite woman in history.  The month long festival will also include events in Steuben, Schuyler and Tompkins counties.  Information will be posted online at: http://www.cantatasingers.com

Girls Scouts to Mark 100^th Anniversary with Pulteney Park Event:

In order to help celebrate their 100^th anniversary, the Girl Scouts of America will hold a candlelight ceremony – with cupcakes – in Pulteney Square in Bath on March 12^th.  The 6 to 8 p.m. event will take place on the day, one century ago, that Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low brought together 18 girls in Savannah, Georgia for the first ever Girl Scout meeting.  Girl Scouts now has a membership of over 3.2 million girls and adults in the U.S., with more than 50 million women in the U.S. former Girl Scouts.  In addition to cupcakes the ceremony will include classic Girl Scout songs and an opportunity for the girls, their families, adult volunteers, and alumni to put their names, years in Scouts and their favorite memories onto die cut shapes for display.  The die cut shapes will eventually be put into a time capsule.

Penn Yan Man Pleads Guilty in July Crash that Killed 6 Amish:

42-year-old Steven Eldridge, of Penn Yan, has pleaded guilty to causing the July crash in Yates County that killed six Amish residents of Steuben County.  He now faces a prison term of 12 to 24 years after pleading guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide, aggravated vehicular assault, reckless driving and driving while ability impaired by drugs.  Sentencing has been set for March 20^th.

Bath P.D. Investigating Thefts:

The Village of Bath Police Department is investigating a series of larcenies from unlocked motor vehicles and garages.  The thefts have occurred over several nights and have targeted GPS devices, cash, electronics, and other valuables.  Residents are reminded to lock all vehicles, garages, and homes, and are urged to make sure no valuables are visible from the outside.  Authorities are looking into reports of two male subjects in their early 20’s dressed in black that were seen running from the scene of a garage burglary on Vermont Street, in vicinity of Colonial Lawns yesterday.

Painted Post Gets Closer to Water Sales:

The Village of Painted Post is on step closer to selling its water to gas drilling companies in Pennsylvania.  The Village Board has now approved resolutions that will allow Mayor Roz Crozier to sign contracts to sell the water and to lease village land to a railroad company that will transport the water to sites in Pennsylvania.  The contracts are reported to still be in draft form, and Crozier told The Corning Leader that “he does not know when they will be ready for his signature.”

Congressman Reed to Hold Town Hall Tomorrow:

Congressman Tom Reed will be holding another Town Hall meeting tomorrow.  He’ll be available from 9am to 10am at the Corning Town Hall on South Maple Street in South Corning.  Don’t forget, if you cannot attend the Town Hall, Reed can be contacted through his website (http://www.reed.house.gov) or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/reptomreed.

Crystal Lanes Offering Free Bowling for Kids as part of Dental Fair:

Kids in the area will have a chance this weekend to not just hit the lanes, but to get a better smile as well as Crystal Lanes in Corning is hosting “Rock Your Smile” on Sunday from 11am to 1pm.  Each child will get free bowling shoe rentals and two free games while a DJ spins up some tunes.  Meanwhile, parents can browse a dental health fair and talk to about a dozen different dental professionals, both dentists and orthodontists.  There will be free give-aways such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, and Dudley the Dinosaur will make an appearance.  The event is limited to the first 96 children to register.  For details, contact the alley at 962 – 5371.

Gas Prices Could Jump $.20 by Monday:

You may want to get out and fill your gas tank quickly.  The average for a gallon of regular gas in New York State is $3.90, according to AAA; but officials from Gasbuddy.com are saying gas prices could spike anywhere between $.05 and .20 per gallon by Monday.  According to industry experts higher oil prices are driving up the price that you’re paying at the pump.  AAA offers the following tips to make sure your gas lasts longer: lighten your load, make sure your tires are properly inflated, and drive the speed limit.   

Sheriff Ordway Accused of Inappropriate Advances/Harassment:

Last week, Steuben County Sheriff Deputy Jen Reed received a $100,000 settlement against the sheriff’s department for alleged sexual harassment, and The Evening Tribune has now broken a story that Deputy Jen Reed’s attorney says that Sheriff Joel Ordway is accused of making advances towards Deputy Reed at a hotel near Utica in 2010.  In the article, the Ithaca-based attorney for Deputy Reed, also alleges that while Ordway apologized both that night back in 2010, and the next morning as well, that he was allegedly unfair to her in the workplace after that alleged incident.  In response, Ordway told The Corning Leader that he “had no comment on a two-year-old allegation which was not part of her filed claim.”

Fire in Bradford Damages Home:

No injuries are being reported in a fire that kicked off around 2pm yesterday at a residence on Sleve Road in Bradford.  Officials believe that the fire started in the chimney of the two-story home, and while small, spread quickly.  The most significant damage was toward the rear of the house’s east side.  Firefighters from several companies battled yesterday’s blustery conditions to extinguish the blaze.  The exact cause of the fire hasn’t been determined.

Alcohol a Factor in Hit and Run:

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office is reporting a hit and run accident that occurred on State Highway 20A in Geneseo.  They report that a vehicle being driven by a resident of Hunt was traveling east and attempting to make a right turn into the Livingston Country Club when a vehicle attempting to pass her on the right struck her.  After the collision witnesses saw the vehicle flee the scene and one witness followed until it crashed into some trees in the area of North Road.  22-year-old Andrew Jackson of Canandaigua was subsequently arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  He was issued Uniform Traffic Tickets for Failure to Keep Right, Speed Not Reasonable, Failure to Maintain Laneway, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident, Unsafe Passing, and Passing on the Right.

Bath Village Board Meeting Recap:

There’s a new law in place in the Village of Bath.  Local Law # 2 is the Property Tax Cap Override. The law allows the Board to override the tax limit established in Governor Cuomo’s 2% cap law. The lawmakers hope they won’t have to use it… but they do want to keep that option open as budget planning is now under way for the new fiscal year.  Also, a moratorium has been passed on fracking for natural gas in the Village. Now, it does not prevent fracking, but it gives officials time determine the impact of what the fracking industry will do to the infrastructure and how they can protect the Village. Other town’s have either approved or are considering a moratorium as natural gas fracking gets closer to New York State. A public hearing will be held March 19th at 5:30pm, required before the law can be adopted.

First Arena Could Avoid Foreclosure:

The embattled First Arena may finally be able to avoid foreclosure.  After not paying taxes for three years and being hit with a foreclosure order by Chemung County Last week, Elmira Downtown Arena LLC Owner, Mostafa Afr, has finally written a check to pay off all the back taxes and fees he was responsible for.  He owed over $136,000.  The check is expected to be delivered to Chemung County either today or tomorrow.  If the check hadn’t been written, the county would have gained ownership of the arena.

Special Meeting Announced for Prattsburgh Town Board:

The Town Board of Prattsburgh will hold a special meeting on Monday, February 27^th at 7pm at the Prattsburgh Town Hall in order to develop an agenda of topics that need to be discussed with Ecogen.

Historical Society Sets Flood of ’72 Discussion:

The Steuben County Historical Society will host a panel discussion on the Flood of ’72 on March 2^nd at the Bath Fire Hall.  The event will be free and open to the public.  Gary Waldo will discuss efforts to restore the area’s roads; Virginia Wright will talk about the effort to save the Corning Museum of Glass’ Research Library and Lorraine Loomis-Konig will reflect on her experiences as a teenage recovery worker.  Also, local historian Kirk House will show photos of the region during and after the flood, and copies of his new book – which is about the flood – will be on sale.

Fatal Rochester Fire Deemed “Unusual:”

Authorities are investigating a fire that swept through a multifamily home early Saturday morning in Rochester and killed four people, all children or teenagers.  Rochester Fire Chief John Caufield told The Democrat and Chronicle that firefighters were on the scene quickly but that they were withdrawn from the home when it became apparent that there wasn’t any way to search for people trapped on the upper floor of the home without sacrificing the lives of rescue personnel.  Caufield added that firefighters were able to rescue four individuals were taken to a local hospital.  The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the circumstances have been labeled as “unusual.”

Authorities Warn Against Tax Scams:

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office is reminding the public to be vigilant this tax season of possible scams.  The Sheriff’s Office says that is not uncommon for malicious actors to try to scam citizens during this time of year with phony e-mails and phone calls.  If contacted by phone, authorities say, ask for the caller’s name and a callback number.  And if you file a paper return, be aware that the IRS and third-party tax providers don’t typically make contact via e-mail.  If you do receive an email you should contact the IRS or your tax provider directly.  Overall, the Sheriff’s Office recommends that you: do not click links in e-mails, open attachments or give out personnel information without first verifying the other party’s identity.

Arbor Housing Offering Section 502 Loans:

Arbor Housing and Development is now offering loan packaging for interested participates applying for mortgage financing through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Section 502 Home Loan Program.  Section 502 provides financing to low and very low-income persons who cannot obtain credit from other sources.  Section 502 funds may be used to buy, build, rehabilitate, improve, or relocate an eligible family dwelling.  For more information or an application, contact Arbor Housing and Development.  (607) 562 – 2477, EXT. 213 or (800) 421 – 1220.

Watkins Glen Hotel to Recreate Titanic’s Last Meal:

If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to dine aboard the Titantic, you’ll get your chance on April 15^th at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel.  The hotel is reportedly planning an 8-course banquet that will recreate the last meal served aboard the Titanic.  The banquet will feature wines from Glenora Wine Cellars along with tunes from the era by a local pianist.  Seating is limited to 250; tickets are $99 and are available by sending checks to the Schuyler County Historical Society.  To learn more about the weekend-long Titanic Festival visit: http://www.rose-maryslegacy.com/TitanicFestival2012.

Public Workshop for Town/Village of Bath and Village of Savona Economic Development:

The Town and Village of Bath and the Village of Savona are working to identify strategic developments that will take advantage of the communitys’ four interchanges on I-86 and there will be a public workshop to solicit ideas and opinions of residents and stakeholders on Wednesday, March 7^th at 6pm at the Saint Thomas Church Parish in Bath.  For more information, contact John Stranges, Chairman of the Town and Village of Bath and Village of Savona Economic Development Committee.  (607) 776 – 5994.

Gas Drilling Forum to be Held March 7^th:

A public forum on issues raised by recent plans to sell municipal water for gas drilling in Pennsylvania will be held on March 7^th at 7pm at the Bath Fire Hall.  Among the speakers will be a geologist from Corning, an attorney from Hammondsport, and a member of the Alfred Village Board and the Program on Corporations, Law and Democracy.  The program will conclude with an open question and answer period. 

Hammondsport Announces Logo Contest:

The Hammondsport Chamber of Commerce, along with the Palettes of Keuka Committee, has announced a design competition to create the “Coolest Small Town” official logo – which Hammondsport will use in its advertising, signage, and commemorative merchandise.  The winner will receive a cash prize of $250.  The Hammondsport Chamber will be accepting submissions for the logo design through 2pm March 30^th.  Those interested should try to capture the essence of what makes Hammondsport “cool,” and should keep in mind that in a town with “wine, wings, and water,” the possibilities are endless.  Submissions may be made through email at info@hammondsport.org, or be dropped off at the Chamber on Sheather Street in Hammondsport.  The winner will be announced on April 3^rd.

Penn Yan Teen Arrested on Rape Charge:

A 19 year old Penn Yan man has been arrested on rape charges. Village Police arrested Shane Mervis after he allegedly forcibly raped a 15 year old girl last week. Mervis was also charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Following his arraignment, Mervis was sent to Yates County Jail in lieu of bail.


Bath Man Arrested on Child Porn Charges:

Kurt Harahus of Bath has been arrested for allegedly sharing child pornography over the Internet for the last 10 years.  Federal agents allegedly found him in possession of hundreds of digital files of child pornography and he later admitted that he had been sharing child pornography over the Internet.  Some of the images, both still and video files, show children as young as 2 engaging in sexual activity with adult men.  A criminal complaint against Harahus was filed on Monday in U.S. District Court.  Specific charges haven’t yet been released.


Officials Back DNA Databank Expansion:

Local law enforcement leaders and the head of the New York State Police were in attendance in Elmira yesterday in support of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to expand the state’s DNA databank, saying it will help solve more crimes and exonerate the wrongly imprisoned.  The proposal would require adults convicted of any felony or penal law misdemeanor to provide a DNA sample for the databank.  Currently, only those convicted of penal law felonies and 36 misdemeanors are required to contribute.  The expansion would not include youthful offenders or those involved in Family Court and DNA would be required at the time of conviction, not arrest.  The New York State Police Superintendent said, “Most criminals start out committing lesser, precursor crimes not previously included in the databank… Today’s shoplifter may be tomorrow’s murderer.”  According to John Zick of The Corning Leader since the databank was expected in 2006 DNA has linked petit larceny convicts to 51 murders, 222 sexual assaults, 117 robberies and 407 burglaries.  The databank has also linked those convicted of second-degree trespass to 30 homicides, 110 sexual assaults and 121 burglaries.


Wayne Bans Fracking:

The Town of Wayne officially enacted a moratorium on natural gas drilling Tuesday night, becoming the first municipality in Steuben County to pass a temporary ban on hydrofracking.  The Wayne Town Supervisor said, “This is not so much pro-fracking or anti-fracking, our primary purpose is to review our land use agreement and make sure we’re protected.”  Currently the villages of Bath and Hammondsport and the towns of Fremont, Pulteney and Urbana are also studying drafts of moratorium resolution.


Hammondsport to Hold Coolest Small Town Parade:

The village of Hammondsport is currently cooking up a parade to celebrate its standing as the co-Coolest Small Town in America.  The parade – reportedly being slated for May or June – may actually be just one part of a bigger festival that will reflect the support and beauty of the area surrounding Hammondsport, according to Village Mayor Emery Cummings.


Hilfiger Clothing to Go on Sale in Big Flats:

Fashion devotees from the Elmira-Corning area have long been wondering where they could get their hands on the rock-and-roll inspired clothing from Andy Hilfiger’s recently launched Andrew Charles clothing line.  Andy, the younger brother of fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger, launched the line this past fall and it has been available at 200 Macy’s department stores around the country – but not the Macy’s at the Arnot Mall.   Thankfully, Andy is aware of this and is willing to help.  “The line isn’t available in the Macy’s at the Arnot Mall,” he told The Star Gazette.  “So I’m bringing the clothes up to give my hometown a chance to get the product at rock-bottom prices.”  The clothing will be sold at cost at Tag’s in Big Flats from 10am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday.  There will also be a performance by Andy’s band the X Brothers on Saturday after the sale.


Living Healthy Steuben Offered at Dormann Library:

The Steuben Rural Health Network will feature, “Living Healthy Steuben,” at the Dormann Library in Bath beginning Wednesday, February 29th.  The six week workshop will assist adults and their caregivers in better managing their chronic health conditions.  The sessions will be held weekly from 1 to 3:30pm, refreshments and door prizes will be offered.  For more information party on February 22nd at the Dormann Library.  Contact the Steuben Rural Health Network for more details.

Campbell Woman Arrested for Fraud:

A joint investigation by the Steuben County Department of Social Services Fraud and Legal Unit and the New York State Police has resulted in the arrest of 48-year-old Theresa Geyer of Campbell.  It’s alleged that she stole a Public Benefit Card and then used it to make several purchases throughout Steuben County.  She has been charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 4th Degree and has been remanded to the Steuben County Jail without bail.


Investigation Continues in Troupsburg Hit and Run:

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the property damage hit and run that occurred on State Route 36 in Troupsburg.  Deputies have received more information about the suspect vehicle and are now asking the public for help in locating it.  The vehicle in question is a Chevrolet Silverado pickup, model year 2009 – 2012.  The truck will have damage to its front passenger side bumper and mirror.  The vehicle color is most likely a dark gray or charcoal.  Information regarding this incident can left anonymously with the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center.


D.A., Chief Rouse Endorse Cole:

David Cole, a candidate for Steuben County Sheriff, held a press conference yesterday in the Village Hall in Bath and several law enforcement officials were on hand to show their support.  Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker said, of Cole, “I know he has the ability, the integrity, and the support of law enforcement to keep the sheriff’s department moving forward.”  Also in attendance were several Police Chiefs from throughout Steuben County, including Dave Rouse of Bath who called Cole “a true professional and outstanding leader.”  Cole is currently running unopposed for the position opened by Joel Ordway.


Great Backyard Bird Count Kicks off this Week:

It’s been an extraordinarily mild winter and because of that this year’s Great Backyard Bird Count is expected to extra special – according to Jessie Barry, a bird expert at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.  He says, “Unusually mild weather brings unusual bird movements.  With the lack of snowfall, birds like American Robins might show up in unexpected places and short-distance migrants like Eastern Phoebes and Red-winged Blackbirds might venture north early.  But we’ll never know unless bird watchers tell us what they’re seeing.”  This year’s Great Backyard Bird Count is set to begin this week on Friday, the 17th, and run through Monday the 20th.  Anyone in the U.S. and Canada can participate for free at http://www.birdcount.org.


Painted Post Water Deal Hearing Delayed:

The Wellsboro & Corning Railroad’s plan to build a water-loading station on an 11.4-acre portion of the old Ingersoll-Rand foundry site will be heard by the Village Board later this month.  The workshop is set for 5:30pm on February 23rd at the Painted Post Village Hall.


REDEC to Host Business Solutions & Development Info. Meeting:

PathStone Enterprise Center and REDEC have announced that they’ll be hosting an 11 week Business Solutions and Development Class starting March 21st.  An information meeting has been scheduled for 7pm, February 29th at Heavenly Cup Coffee Roasters in Painted Post to describe expectations and benefits of the class.  Participants will be selected through a competitive screening process and applications need to be completed by March 12th.  Those selected will attend the 11-week course, which will meet on Wednesdays from 6 to 9pm.  The cost for the course is $50.  Applications can be obtained the night of the information meeting or online at http://www.pathstoneenterprise.org.


Chemung County St. Patty’s Day Parade Set:

The Chemung County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade will return for another year, it’s been scheduled for Sunday, March 11th in the Village of Horseheads.  The parade will form at 1pm at the Horseheads High School and will depart at 2pm and march down Sayre Street, turn left on Main, go through Hanover Square, and finish on West Franklin Street.  Among those scheduled to perform are the Caledonia Highlanders, the Finger Lakes Pipes and Drums, and the Horseheads High School Marching Band.  There will community events including a Chalk Drawing Event the day before from Noon to 3 in Hanover Square.

Heluva Good Out as Watkins Glen International Sponsor

With the NASCAR season weeks away, Heluva Good! pulled its title sponsorship from Watkins Glen International’s 90-lap race.  WGI’s sister track, Michigan International Speedway, also lost Heluva Good! as its title sponsor.  According to WGI President, Michael Printup, WGI and Heluva Good! had been negotiating their continued title sponsorship when Heluva Good! abruptly pulled the deal from the table.  Heluva Good! had been the title sponsor of the August event since 2009 and was the first major consumer goods sponsor since Budweiser served as title sponsor from 1986 to 1998.  The NASCAR weekend draws hundreds of thousands to Watkins Glen every August and over four million television viewers.

Campbell  Man Arrested for Possession of Untaxed Cigarettes

The New York State Police arrested an area man this week for having over ten thousand unstamped packs of cigarettes.  31 year-old Robert Champluvier of Campbell was stopped by Troopers in the town of Avoca for a traffic violation and was subsequently found to be in possession of the cigarettes.  The cigarettes were missing their state of sale stamp, meaning they were untaxed and Champluvier was charged with New York State Tax Law Felony of Possessing or Transporting Over Ten Thousand Unstamped Cigarettes.  He will appear in Town of Avoca Court next week.

Murder Charges Upgraded in Gibson Death

The Painted Post man accused of killing his live-in girlfriend had his charges upgraded from manslaughter to murder this week.  49 year-old Joseph Dixon was charged with manslaughter for the November death of 53 year-old Dolores Warner but the Steuben County Grand Jury upgraded the charge to murder because they say he intentionally killed her.  Warner died from a combination of blunt force trauma and strangulation at her home on College Avenue in Gibson.  Dixon is awaiting trial in custody at the Steuben County Jail.

Parenting Class Offered in Addison

The Jennie Mose Family Resource Center in Addison is offering parenting classes every Wednesday at 8 PM throughout February and March.  The class, entitled “Parenting With Heart” is designed for parents and grandparents of children of all ages.  Registration is necessary at 359-3839.

Murder Charge in Gibson Death:

The Corning man who allegedly killed his former live-in girlfriend around thanksgiving in Gibson is now being charged with murder.  The Steuben County grand jury upgraded the charges against 49-year-old Joseph Dixon on Tuesday from manslaughter to second-degree murder, alleging he intentionally killed 53-year-old Dolores Warner.  Warner was killed sometime on or shortly before Thanksgiving Day at her home on College Avenue.  State troopers discovered her body Thanksgiving night after being asked to check on her by a concerned relative.  Dixon is being held at the Steuben County Jail; his arraignment is set for Wednesday.  If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison.


Arkport Man Arrested on Sex Charges:

Wayland State Police are reporting that 52-year-old Keith Robinson, of Arkport, is now facing charges of one count of sexual conduct against a child and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.  According to troopers, the alleged victim is under the age of 13.  Robinson is being held at the Steuben County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail.


Deliberations Continue in Meth Lab Trial:

Jury deliberations will continue today in the manslaughter trial of Brion Peters – the Pennsylvania man who allegedly caused a fatal meth lab fire last May in Chemung County.  The jury deliberated for several hours yesterday before being sent home for the evening; they are expected to resume this morning.  Peters is charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection with the fire that killed 20-year-old Kanisha Wood of Elmira.  Peters faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.


Bath Volunteer Fire Dept. Awarded Grant:

The Bath Volunteer Fire Department was awarded a grant from the Allstate Insurance Company for $1,000 in honor of the department’s community service.  The check was presented on Tuesday night at the department’s monthly meeting – it was made possible by Allstate Agent Tami Dowdle of Corning.


Corning Police Chief Honored:

The Center for Dispute Settlement is proud to announce that Corning Police Chief Salvatore Trentanelli will be receiving the Honored Law Enforcement Award on Monday, February 27th at a luncheon held at the Rochester Plaza Hotel.  The award recognizes a law enforcement person or department that exemplifies the de-escalation of conflict on a regular basis and makes the community more peaceful in partnership with citizens.  Chief Trentanelli was selected for the award by police officers through the Seventh Judicial District, which encompasses eight counties: Cayuga, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, and Yates.


Youth Board Dinner Held Last Night:

The Steuben County Youth Board’s Annual dinner was held last night and Colleen Clancy and Dick McCandless were honored for their dedication to area youth.  Clancy has been a Guidance Counselor over the past 20 years at the Vernon E. Wightman School.  She received the Gary S. Pruyn Youth Service Award, an award that has been around since 1994, but recently renamed in honor of the now retired former youth bureau director Gary Pruyn.  Also honored for his 16 years of service in the Youth in Government Program was Dick McCandless, who has announced his retirement.

Fire in Bath Causes No Injuries:

No injuries are being reported in the fire that started yesterday afternoon on Shadduck Road in Bath.  The Bath Volunteer Fire Department arrived on scene to find the home’s residents had already escaped.  The fire is believed to have sparked around 3:45pm, an electrical outlet in the bedroom is being cited as the cause.  It took crews about an hour to bring it under control.  The home sustained significant fire, heat, and smoke damage.  The Red Cross is providing assistance to the family.


Farmhous Destroyed in Wheeler Fire:

An Amish farmhouse at the intersection of Ridge and Bull Hill Roads in Wheeler was destroyed yesterday when a fire broke out 10:30am.  Several local fire department responded and while the had the fire under control in about an hour, Prattsburgh Fire Chief Ron Putnam told The Corning Leader that crews were on scene until almost 4pm, finding and putting out hot spots.  There were no injuries and no other buildings were damaged.  The official cause hasn’t been determined, but it may have started as a chimney fire.


Two Hornell Men Arrested on Felony Drug Charges:

Livingston County Sheriff John York has announced the arrest of 20-year-old Robert Smith and his 23-year-old cousin Joshua Smith on charges on Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree after their vehicle was found to contain quantities of marihuana, cocaine, and ecstasy during a traffic stop in Avon.  Both men were remanded to the Livingston County Jail on $5,000 cash bail.


Family Disturbance in Campbell Leads to Arrest:

A Campbell man was arrested on Sunday following an investigation by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office into a family disturbance on Meads Creek Road.  55-year-old Gerald Wray allegedly assaulted Loretta Horton, causing physical injury to her.  Horton was transported to the Gutherie Corning Hospital for treatment; Wray was charged with Assault in the 3rd Degree and issued an appearance ticket.


Bomb Threat Suspects Could Face Prison Time:

The Arnot Mall was once again for business yesterday following the bomb scare the shopping complex had on Sunday.  Chemung County Sheriff Christopher Moss said the threats came in around 4:30pm Sunday afternoon, but no bombs were found.  According to attorney Chemung County Attorney Christina Sonsire, in New York State the threat is enough to land the suspect or suspects behind bars.  “The perpetrator or perpetrators could face up to 4 years in prison.  New York State takes very seriously the threat of terrorist type threats and bomb threats even if they aren’t carried out,” she said.  The investigation is ongoing, with authorities still looking for the individuals responsible.
 
Trial Begins in Alleged Meth Blast:

Opening statements were heard in Chemung County court yesterday afternoon in the trail of 52-year-old Brion Peters – the Millteron Pennsylvania man who was allegedly caused a meth explosion that killed 20-year-old Kanisha Wood last May in Baldwin.  According to statements made by Peters, he put flammable liquid on a wood stove at a cabin in Lockwood Run Road and it caught fire and exploded.  Wood was badly injured, suffering third-and-fourth degree burns.  She died the same day.  Testimony is expected to begin today, Peters faces up to 15 years in prison if he’s convicted of second-degree manslaughter.
 

Brooks Found Guilty of Second Degree Murder:

After deliberating for about eight hours yesterday, the jury in the Marland Brooks murder case found the 39 year-old Elmira man guilty of Second-Degree Murder and First-Degree Robbery among lesser charges.  Brooks faces a maximum of 25 years to life for the stabbing death of 26 year-old Clark VanEtten last June at VanEtten’s residence.  Brooks’ girlfriend, Samantha Smith, who was an accomplice in the robbery and murder, testified for the prosecution in exchange for a 10-year sentence gave conflicting testimony when she took the stand citing the fact that she was high on drugs at the time of the killing.  Peter Frank, the man who drove the couple to VanEtten’s residence on the night of  the killing, testified that he accompanied the couple but stayed in his truck during the robbery so they could get $400 dollars that Smith had stolen from Frank the previous day.  Brooks is scheduled to appear in Steuben County Court March 5^th for sentencing.

Clancy & McCandless to be Honored at Youth Board Dinner:

The Steuben County Youth Board plans to honor two locals for their years of service to area youths.  Colleen Clancy will be awarded the annual Youth Service Worker of the Year Award at the Board’s 2012 Annual Dinner this Wednesday, February 8^th.  Clancy has worked as a School Counselor at the Vernon E. Wightman Primary School in Bath for over 20 years and was described by the board as a positive role model for both students and staff.  Also at the Annual Dinner, the Youth Board will recognize Richard McCandless, who is retiring after 16 years as the coordinator of the County’s Youth In Government Program.  The Youth Board’s Annual Dinner will be held at the Bath Country Club on February 8^th beginning at 5:30 PM and the public is invited.

Bath Man Arrested for Fraud

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested 51 year-old Scott Cambra of West Morris Street in Bath this week after he allegedly tried to defraud the Department of Social Services out of an undisclosed amount of money.  Cambra was arraigned in Bath Village Court and remanded to the County jail without bail.  He is scheduled to reappear in Bath Village Court on February 15^th to answer the charge.

Town of Prattsburgh Announces Special Meeting:

The town board of Prattsburgh will hold a special meeting this Monday, February 6^th at 7 PM.  The purpose of the pmeeting is to review information from Bond Schoneck and Kin, PLLC in regards to Ecogen’s Wind Farm Project and any other business that may come before the board.  The meeting will be held at the Prattsburgh Town hall on North Main Street in Prattsburgh.

Prison Escapee Caught in Dansville:

A man who recently walked away from a prison work detail in Pennsylvania was apprehended earlier this week in Dansville.  According to State Police, Wayland-based troopers on patrol located a stolen vehicle on Tuesday on Interstate 390.  Troopers stopped the vehicle and 22-year-old Jeffrey Blair, the escapee, was found in the passenger seat.  He and the driver of the vehicle, 19-year-old Britain Loyd, of Elmira, were both taken into the custody.  Both men were allegedly in possession of crack cocaine when they were apprehended; Blaire was charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and was ordered held without bail as fugitive of justice, Loyd was charged with fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and driving without a license.  He was jailed on $5,000.


Wanted Man Arrested in Chemung County:

38-year-old Charles Martone Jr., of Elmira, wanted by several law enforcement agencies in Chemung County was arrested and charged by state police on Tuesday for first-degree falsifying a business record and petit larceny.  He was arraigned on those charges and jailed.  He is also wanted by the Elmira, West Elmira, and Horseheads Police Departments on other charges including aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and unpaid child support.  State Police say he will eventually be turned over to those agencies to face those charges.


Bath Woman Arrested on Forgery Charge:

The New York State Police of Bath have announced the arrest of 26-year-old Sammy Jo Hojnoski, of East William Street, on a charge of second-degree forgery.  Troopers allege that in December 2009 Hojnoski stole a personal check from an acquaintance, filled it out, forged the name of the owner of the check, and cashed it at a local store.  Hojnoski was arraigned in Avoca Court and remanded to the Steuben County Jail on $1,000 cash bail.


Prosecution Rests in Brooks Murder Trial:

The prosecution rested its case yesterday in the ongoing trail of 39-year-old Marland Brooks – the man charged with murdering a Corning resident during a drug-related robbery last June.  All told, Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker called more than 15 witnesses, including the defendant’s girlfriend, who was present at the time of the murder.  The defense will have the opportunity to beginning calling their witnesses today.  Brooks is charged with two counts of murder and three other felonies – the prosecution contends that Brooks killed 26-year-old Clark VanEtten to take money from him; the defense claims Brooks acted in self-defense.


Schuyler Sheriff’s Deputy Honored by State:

Schuyler County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Yessman recently became the 37th recipient of the Deputy of the Year Award, which is given by the New York State Sheriff’s Association Institute.  He was presented with the award at the recent NYSSAI Heroes’ Luncheon in Albany.  Yessman was honored for his actions on October 18th, 2011, when Yessman confronted 25-year-old Joseph Esposito who allegedly targeted and fired upon police officers in Burdett.


Work on Drain Pipe Under Way:

If you’ve been cruising Interstate 86 recently and found yourself wondering what the massive pile of dirt along side the Chemung River was all about, wonder no more.  The Corning Leader reports that the work is the result of a project underway by Wenzel Contractors to replace a section of aging, faulty drainage pipe in the area of the Little League field in Corning’s Dension Park and the sewage treatment plant.  Director of Corning’s Public Works Department Mike Harris told the paper that the $100,000 project is expected to be finished by next week.


Special Meeting Scheduled for Prattsburgh Town Board:

The Town Board of Prattsburgh will hold a special meeting this Monday, February 6th at 7pm to review information regards to Ecogen’s Wind Farm Project.  The meeting will be held at the Prattsburgh Town Hall.