goBroomeCounty.com News Releases

Open Burning In Broome County (2008-05-09: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 16 May 2008 21:05:57 -0400

As spring weather approaches we begin to think about cleaning our yards of the winter accumulation of debris. Broome County residents are reminded that state, county, and local laws prohibit the open burning of any refuse, garbage or yard waste. The Broome County Sanitary Code requirements are stricter than those of state regulations or neighboring counties and apply in rural areas of the county. Local municipalities may also have additional requirements.

Uncontrolled burning produces smoke that can adversely affect the health of those people who breathe it. The only exceptions to the Broome County law is burning for agricultural purposes on farms or at fire training exercises conducted by fire departments. Residents should seek other options to dispose of yard waste by contacting their local Public Works Department or the Broome County Division of Solid Waste. Most of this material can be composted, or recycled. The Broome County Environmental Management Council or Cornell Cooperative Extension can provide guidance on effective recycling techniques.

By following these suggestions residents can minimize local air pollution. Violators of the Sanitary Code are subject to civil penalties and may also be responsible for the costs of suppression by the fire department, should the burn get out of control.

Broome County residents can contact the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2887 or the Broome County Fire Coordinators Office at 607.778.2170, for additional information.

Groundbreaking of the Binghamton Intermodal Transit Terminal (2008-05-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:04:55 -0400

Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala, Congressman Maurice Hinchey, City of Binghamton Mayor Matt Ryan, local business owners and residents gathered on the corner of Chenango and Henry Streets for the groundbreaking of the new Binghamton Intermodal Transit Terminal. The project, estimated to cost $12 million, will include 14 inter-city bus platforms six for Greyhound buses, and eight for Coach USA and Short Line and a saw-tooth-style bay for local transit buses. The terminal is slated to be completed in the spring of 2010.

"This investment in our urban core will greatly benefit our entire area and advance our local and regional transportation system," said Executive Fiala. "I want to thank Congressman Maurice Hinchey for championing this project and securing federal monies to create this modern terminal."

This two story transportation hub in downtown Binghamton will provide riders with safe and efficient transfers between different types of transport as well as shelter from wind, rain and snow. The terminal will also house a diner and retail space. Currently, the county is working on closing the properties at the location. Three out of four owners have already signed contracts to move forward with the sale of property.

The Binghamton Intermodal Transit Terminal project has been on the drawing board since 1999. Little action took place until 2005 when Executive Fiala took office and began working with federal, state and local partners to gain the necessary funding to move the project forward.

Mayor Matt Ryan applauded the downtown development. "I'm pleased to take part in today's groundbreaking, and stand in support of this important project. The Intermodal Center promises to spur increased economic development, improve the efficiency of our local transportation services, and benefit our local quality of life."

Using his seat on the House Appropriations Committee, Hinchey secured $4.1 million from Congress over the past six years for the project, which helped leverage an additional $4 million from the Federal Highway Administration beyond the agency's original $1 million commitment. Last year, Hinchey directly appealed to the regional head of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for a quick approval of the Environmental Assessment for the project. The FTA moved quickly, which helped pave the way for the release of the money. An additional $2 million for the project is coming in matching funds from New York State. Broome County's match is just over $1 million.

"The Binghamton Intermodal Transit Terminal will transform the way people move around Broome County -- providing alternatives to driving a car and creating easier and safer connections to buses, taxis, and hopefully one day trains," Hinchey said. "Broome County continues to be lead by example by demonstrating its commitment to facilitating new and better ways to travel around the area. As mass transit becomes an easier and more reliable way of traveling throughout Broome County, less cars will be on the roads, which will help ease congestion while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The intermodal hub will also help serve as an economic engine for the county -- making it easier for people to get to businesses both to work as well as purchase things."

Danielle Stento Recognized for the 5k Run/Walk (2008-05-09: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:02:27 -0400

Plaque Dedicated in Her Honor at MacArthur Park

Today, the Stento family, STOP DWI coordinator James May, City of Binghamton Mayor Matt Ryan, former sponsors and volunteers unveiled a plaque at MacArthur Elementary School in honor of Danielle Stento and the Danielle 5k Run/Walk. The annual Danielle 5k Run/Walk was a well known, well attended event held each year at the MacArthur track to honor Danielle Stento who suffered sever brain trauma after being struck by a drunk driver in 1989. The event was created to raise awareness about dangers of drinking and driving and funding for the Danielle House, local high school SADD chapters and STOP DWI. After 16 successful years the Danielle Stento 5k Run/Walk ended in 2007.

"I want to thank Danielle Stento and the Stento family for their dedicated efforts to raise awareness in our community about the consequences of drinking and driving," commented Executive Barbara Fiala.

The plaque dedicated to Danielle Stento was placed next to the track in honor of the success of the Danielle 5k Run Walk. Over $300,000 was raised in the 16 years the event was held. Due to the rainy weather, students at MacArthur will lead a commemorative one lap run around the track at another date.

"The Danielle 5k Run/Walk was a very successful community event," stated STOP DWI Coordinator James May. "This event helped raise awareness about impaired driving and raised money to benefit community organizations that combat DWI. I want to thank the countless volunteers, sponsors, participants and especially Danielle and her family for all they do to support the STOP DWI program through the Danielle 5k Run/Walk."

Wanting to shift the focus to educating the community's youth the Stento family along with Broome County STOP DWI and Broome County Traffic Safety created the "Danielle Stento How to Save a Life Contest". This countywide education initiative consists of a television, radio and poster contest for students across five different important traffic safety topics: Drowsy Driving, Safety Belt Use, Driving Distractions, Impaired Driving and Speed/Aggressive Driving. The contest began in March and includes high school, middle school and elementary grade divisions. The Winners of this year's contest will be announced Tuesday, May 13th at 6pm at the Oakdale Mall.

For more information about Broome County STOP DWI please visit: www.bcstopdwi.com

Winners Announced in the First Annual Danielle Stento “How to Save a Life Contest” (2008-05-13: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:04:55 -0400

Broome County STOP DWI coordinator Jim May and Broome County Traffic Safety Coordinator Christine Muss were joined by Danielle Stento and her family to announce the winners of the 1st Annual Danielle Stento “How to Save a Life Contest” at the Oakdale Mall. Following the conclusion of the highly successful Danielle 5K Run/Walk, the Danielle Stento “How to Save a Life Contest” was created to continue spreading this important message and honor Danielle Stento, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a car driven by a drunk driver 1989.

The contest was designed to educate the community and local students about important traffic safety issues. Students were asked to create a poster, radio public service announcement or TV public service announcement on any of these 5 topics:

• Drowsy Driving • Safety Belt Use • Driving Distractions

• Impaired Driving (Alcohol/Drug Use) • Speed/Aggressive Driving

Prizes were awarded to the following winners of the 1st annual Danielle Stento “How to Save a Life Contest”:

Elementary Division Poster:

1st place – Ariana Taylor 3rd grade MacArthur Elementary School, Binghamton

2nd place – Aubrey Craig Kindergarten Charles F. Johnson School, Binghamton

3rd place – Reese Vaughan Early Kindergarten Our Lady of Sorrows, Endicott

Honorable Mention Poster

Megan Slilaty Vestal Hill Elementary, Vestal

Makayla Aartinkovic MacArthur Elementary, Binghamton

Zonia Altamirano Charles F. Johnson, Binghamton

Middle School Division Posters:

1st place – Jenna Mazzei 8th grade Chenango Valley Middle School, Binghamton

2nd place – Dylan Palmiter 7th grade Johnson City Middle School, Johnson City

Tie for 3rd place

3rd place – Peyam Mohammed 7th grade Johnson City Middle School, Johnson City

3rd place – Hannah Werner 7th grade Johnson City Middle School, Johnson City

Middle School Division Video

1st place – The Childrens Home of Wyoming Conference classroom #3 Grade 7-8

High School Division Poster

1st place – Women’s Empowerment 9th grade Seton Catholic Central, Binghamton

2nd place – Josh Figura 10th grade Susquehanna Valley High School, Conklin

3rd place – Kane Giblin 12th grade Binghamton High School, Binghamton

Honorable Mention Poster

Jessica Delany 12th grade Susquehanna Valley High School,

Conklin

Katherine Banko 12th grade Susquehanna Valley High School,

Conklin

Maine Endwell High School BCC Drivers ED 11th grade

Jamie Holiday and Kristin Enty

High School Division Radio

1st place – Maine Endwell High School SADD

Broome County would like to thank the following sponsors for their contributions:

The Oakdale Mall Time Warner Cable

Dick’s Sporting Goods Binghamton Senators

BAE Systems Wild 104

WICZ Fox 40 William H. Lane

United Health Services Binghamton Mets

Broome County YMCA Nirchi’s Pizza

For more information about BC STOP DWI please visit: www.bcstopdwi.com.

Babies Sleep Safest Alone (2008-05-12: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Mon, 12 May 2008 07:45:15 -0400

Statewide Campaign To Stop Co-Sleeping Deaths

Launched By Nys Office Of Children &Amp; Family Services &Amp; More Than Three Dozen County Local Social Services Commissioners

Babies Sleep Safest Alone

New York State Office of Children & Family Services Commissioner Gladys Carrión, Broome County Social Services Commissioner Arthur Johnson, and more than three dozen local social services commissioners across the state today launched a joint campaign to stop a preventable crisis: infants dying when sharing a bed with an adult. Today Commissioner Johnson was joined by staff and local mothers at the Mothers and Babies Perinatal Network in Binghamton to announce local campaign efforts.

"This campaign and subsidy will allow our county (Broome) to be pro-active in preventing child fatalities," stated Arthur Johnson. "We will have the resources to use to analyze information related to these tragedies that will help us to develop and target preventive activities."

There have been 89 infant or small child death reports to the New York Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment since 2006, where the child was co-sleeping with a parent, sibling, or caregiver, according to the NYS Office of Children and Family Services.

Co-sleeping is risky. If an adult or child rolls over on a baby, the baby can be hurt or even suffocated. Sleeping with a child can be dangerous, especially if you drink, use drugs, are overweight, or sleep on a couch. To keep your baby close, put his crib or bassinet near your bed.

The Office of Children and Families estimates that co-sleeping is involved in approximately 20 percent of the child fatalities reported to the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment.

Three-quarters of the children in co-sleeping incidents were newborn to three months old. Adult co-sleepers involved in these incidents were most likely to be the child's mothers, age 18 to 24 years old. Nearly 40 percent of these co-sleeping incidents occurred on the weekend.

To prevent further fatalities, the State, local counties, and the City of New York are joining together to launch a "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" statewide public education campaign, adapted from materials originally developed for Mayor Michael Bloomberg's "TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR BABY" child safety campaign.

"Just over a dozen small children died so far this year in beds they were sharing with their caregivers," said Commissioner Carrión at a press conference at Manhattan's Metropolitan Hospital maternity ward, on Thursday, May 8. "These may have been preventable deaths."

Carrion's comments are being echoed statewide at launch events this month in more than 30 counties.

The "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" public education campaign is comprised of the following:

• Simultaneous campaign media launches in New York's Designated Market Areas (DMAs), including New York City, Buffalo, Albany, Rochester, Syracuse, Plattsburgh, Binghamton, Utica, Elmira, and Watertown, and, over the next month, in over three dozen counties, including: Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Erie, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, Otsego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schuyler, Seneca, Suffolk, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates

• A "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" English and Spanish-language radio campaign across New York State targeting caregivers 18 to 39 years old

• Distribution of 200,000 English and Spanish-language "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" posters, 200,000 English and Spanish pamphlets and 15,000 baby bibs through the Office of Children and Family Services "NY Loves Safe Babies" network and professional associations, doctors' offices, child care providers, family resource centers, county social services and health offices, Red Cross babysitter training programs, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) centers, maternity hospitals and birthing centers, prenatal programs, adolescent pregnancy programs, kinship care programs, Healthy Families New York Home Visiting Programs, high school family and consumer science education programs and the infant industry

• "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" Public Service Announcement telecast over the Cablevision and Time Warner Cable networks

• Launch of a "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" website and Facebook page where a fact sheet, pamphlets, and video and audio podcasts will be available for viewing and download

• Outreach effort to English and Spanish-language daily and weekly newspapers and magazines; parenting & family writers, columnists, websites and blogs; editorial boards; and television and radio stations

• Links to the "BABIES SLEEP SAFEST ALONE" public education campaign on state, municipal, contractor, and vendor websites

For more information, visit

May Proclaimed Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (2008-05-09: Health Dept TS - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 09 May 2008 09:09:45 -0400

Southern Tier Harley Davidson and Broome County Traffic Safety Promotes "Sharing the Road" with Motorcycles by Joining Efforts with State and Federal Partners

One out of every nine U.S. road fatalities accounted for last year involved motorcycle riders. This steady increase in fatalities over the past decade represents one of our Nation's greatest highway safety challenges.

Motorcycle fatalities now account for 11 percent of total road fatalities and have increased each year from a low of 2,116 in 1997 to 4,810 in 2006. So while there has been success in reducing automobile deaths in recent years, this progress is being negated by the rise in motorcycle fatalities, which has more than doubled.

That's why Southern Tier Harley Davidson and Broome County Traffic Safety announced today that they are joining with other federal, State and local highway safety, law enforcement, and motorcycle organizations in proclaiming May 2008 as "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month." All motorists are reminded to safely "Share the Road" with motorcycles and to be extra alert when driving to help keep motorcyclists safe.

"With warmer weather here, more motorcycles are back on the roads. Drivers of all vehicles need to be extra alert," said Larry Brooks, manager of Southern Tier Harley Davidson. "Motorcycles are some of the smallest vehicles on the road so folks in other vehicles need to really look out for them—and to take extra care to safely 'Share the Road'."

Because of their smaller size, motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle's blind spot. "It's crucial that motorists always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections." said Brooks.

Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger vehicle drivers in the event of a crash. Research shows that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle crashes injure or kill a motorcycle rider, while only 20 percent of passenger car crashes injure or kill a driver or passenger in their vehicle.

Twelfth Annual Statewide Mitchell Rabbino Decision Making Day (2008-05-08: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 08 May 2008 00:27:12 -0400

John Normile, of Levene, Gouldin & Thompson, LLP, will give a free presentation explaining legal procedures and documents to help people make better, more informed health care and financial decisions.

Highlights

Powers of Attorney

Health Care Proxy and Living Wills

Medicaid Eligibility

Registration is Requested:

Phone: 607.778.6451

E-mail: skowalski@co.broome.ny.us

For more information see the full story link below.

Endicott Police Department to Hold a Child Safety Seat Event (2008-05-01: Health Dept TS - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:17:41 -0400

The Endicott Police Department in cooperation with the Broome County Traffic Safety Program will be holding a Child Safety Seat Check Event.

The event will take place in the garage area at the Endicott Fire Station located at 1101 Park Street, Endicott, on Friday, May 2nd from 12 p.m.—3 p.m.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 80% of parents in the United States are incorrectly using their child safety seats. In Broome County, the rate of improperly installed car seats is well over 70%. This event will include free child safety seat installations by certified child passenger safety technicians, as well as free educational materials and guidance on child safety seats. If your car seat is expired, recalled or in poor condition, a new seat will be given while supplies last.

Families that are interested should bring their child safety seat(s), their child/children, and the vehicle the child safety seat will be installed in. Inspections will be done on a first come, first serve basis.

For more information about this event, please call Laurie Sorenson at (607) 757-2471 or Christine Muss at 607.778.2807.

Travelers to Encounter Additional Bag Fees (2008-04-29: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:11:53 -0400

(Maine, NY) In an effort to assist air travelers preparing for their upcoming trips the Greater Binghamton Airport would like to ensure their customers are aware of soon to be implemented policies for checked bags by the airlines serving BGM. As a result of airlines continued efforts to counter the effects of increased fuel expenses, airlines will soon begin assessing fees for any additional checked bag over one per passenger.

In early February United Airlines announced its intentions of charging a $25 fee for a second bag checked for most domestic coach class flights. This announcement was followed with a similar plan by US Airways a few weeks later. Northwest announced their intentions of charging additional baggage fees at the end of March. These additional fees are projected to help offset additional expenses the airlines have accrued recently as a result of record high fuel prices that have created fiscal hardships in the airline industry.

Travelers using the Greater Binghamton Airport should be aware of these new baggage policies which will begin May 5th. To avoid paying additional fees passengers have the option of being frugal and simply packing lighter, or shipping additional items through an outside service.

Additional information can be found on each airline's website or at www.binghamtonairport.com

Tire Safety Awareness (2008-04-28: Health Dept TS - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:04:12 -0400

The Rubber Manufacturers Association is sponsoring the seventh annual National Tire Safety Week April 20-26 to help raise awareness about the importance of tire care. Under inflated tires increase driving risks, waste fuel and cause tires to wear out faster but the majority of U.S. motorists pay little attention to their tires. A national survey indicates that 85% of American drivers do not properly check tire inflation pressure and they should. With gas prices rising again to record levels, motorists can save a little extra time and money by taking that extra 5 minutes each month to check their tires.

Checking your tires monthly not only saves your fuel but can also help save your life. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), under inflated tires contribute to 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries each year. NHTSA estimates that about one in four cars have at least one significantly under inflated tire.

In order to keep your tires in good condition check your tire pressure, alignment, rotation and tread on a regular basis.

• Pressure

o Improper inflation pressure creates excessive stress and heat and can lead to tire failure. The "right amount" of inflation for your tires is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and is shown on either the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box door or fuel door and is also listed in the owner's manual NOT on the side of the tire. Be sure to check tires when they are cool – meaning they are not hot from driving even a mile. And don't forget to check your spare!

Alignment

Misalignment of wheels in the front or rear can cause uneven and rapid tread wear and should be corrected by a tire dealer. Have your alignment checked periodically as specified by the vehicle owner's manual or whenever you have an indication of trouble such as "pulling." Also have your tire balance checked periodically – an unbalanced tire and wheel assembly may result in irregular wear or vibration.

Rotation

Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating your tires. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual, the tire manufacturer or your tire dealer for the appropriate rotation pattern for your vehicle.

Tread

Tires must be replaced when the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch. When tire traction is lost, it is easier to hydroplane in bad weather. To determine if your tires are worn, place a penny into a tread groove and if part of Lincoln's head is covered by the tread, the tread is still good. But if you can see all of Lincoln's head, the tire needs to be replaced.

For more information about tire safety please visit The Rubber Manufacturers Association at

Broome County Take Your Child to Work Day (2008-04-24: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:52:28 -0400

Today, Broome County Government welcomed about twenty children to participate in "Take Your Child to Work Day". Employees were joined with their children at work to experience various county departments and to learn about county government. Broome County Executive Barbara Fiala welcomed students to the County Office Building and invited them to tour the Executive office. There, children got to sit at the County Executive's desk and have their photo taken.

Participants began their day in the county courts were they learned about the judicial branch of government and court operations. Following, students toured Broome Security and found out about the various county owned building's security, law enforcement operations and additional security details the county provides.

The students then boarded the county trolley for a quick ride through downtown Binghamton to discuss B.C. Transit and the county public transportation system. Upon their return, the students were greeted by the Front Street Dog Shelter staff to discuss animal adoption. The staff was also joined by the shelter's ambassador dog to discuss proper training and animal maintenance.

Broome County and BCC Agree On Concept for Alms House Renovation (2008-04-22: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:07:59 -0400

-County Will Fund Feasibility Study to Assess Kitchen Incubator-

(TOWN OF DICKINSON, NY) Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala and Broome Community College President Dr. Laurence Spraggs today announced that an agreement is in place to study the renovation of the Alms House on campus.

As part of the agreement, Broome County will provide approximately $50,000 to fund a feasibility study to determine if the 127 year-old structure can accommodate commercial kitchen space and classroom space on the first floor, and space for offices on the second floor.

Broome County has already pledged $1.5 million towards rehabilitating the Alms House and last week Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo announced that the she has secured $1.5 million in matching state funds dedicated to preserving the aging structure.

“The Alms House is a very important part of our community and the BCC campus,” said County Executive Fiala. “I have been a strong advocate for rehabilitating the structure if we could find an appropriate use that could benefit the college, and now we have. The next step is to study whether we can make this concept a reality and I am optimistic that we can.”

“The College has been looking at ways to put a commercial kitchen on campus for quite some time, but funding was an issue and we could not find a suitable location on campus due to space limitations,” said Dr. Spraggs. “As a result we've had to lease space from BOCES for the hotel-restaurant program. Locating a commercial kitchen in the Alms House would be an opportunity to enhance and expand this important program and exploring this concept would be the next logical step.”

Broome County Transit Orders Six Hybrid Electric Buses (2008-04-21: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:07:59 -0400

— Drive Trains Provided by BAE Systems in Johnson City —

Today, on the eve of Earth Day, Broome County Executive Barbara Fiala was joined by Congressman Hinchey and Jim Garceau BAE Systems Site Executive to announce the addition of six hybrid electric buses to the Broome County (B.C.) Transit fleet in late 2008; marking the introduction of this clean and efficient technology to the areas mass transit system. BAE Systems will provide the hybrid propulsion systems from its plant in Johnson City, where the technology — now used by transit agencies from coast to coast — was developed.

"The introduction of hybrid buses to the B.C. Transit fleet is a significant step in our efforts to become a more 'green' community and reduce energy costs," County Executive Barbara Fiala said in announcing the county's decision to buy six Orion VII-model hybrid buses from Daimler Commercial Buses North America. "I want to thank NYSERDA and Congressman Hinchey for supporting the new additions to our fleet. It's doubly gratifying that the drive systems for the hybrid busses will be built here by BAE Systems, one of our premier local companies."

Broome County Health Department Awarded Child Safety Grant (2008-04-18: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 15:40:53 -0400

— $182,168 to form Child Fatality Review Team —

Today, Governor Paterson announced the twelve recipients of child safety grants totaling $1.17 million. The Broome County Health Department was awarded an $182,168 grant that will support the creation of a countywide Child Fatality Review Team (CFRT). This team will build upon the current work of the Family Violence Prevention Council and will draw together professionals from the Health Department, Department of Social Services, Mental Health, District Attorney's Office, local forensic pathologists, County Coroners, law enforcement, hospitals and emergency medical services to create a comprehensive formal case review.

Assistance with Costly Repairs to Your Well or Septic System May Be Available (2008-04-11: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:53:22 -0400

Opportunities for Chenango is assisting the Broome County Health Department in determining the need for federal grant funds to help eligible homeowners pay for repairs to their private wells and septic systems.

With the approach of springtime conditions, now is a good time to check the condition of your individual on-site wastewater disposal system (septic system). As you walk around your yard looking for signs of spring you may also see or smell signs of a failing septic system. A properly functioning system will not be seriously affected by springtime rain and melt water. A system needing repairs will allow untreated sewage to reach the ground surface.

Most people with individual septic systems also use an individual well as their household water supply. Occasional changes in odor, taste, or color could be caused by an improperly sited or constructed well or by malfunctioning pump equipment.

Repairs to the septic system require approval from the Broome County Health Department. Contact the Division of Environmental Health Services at 607.778.2887 with questions or for technical assistance with septic and well problems. Repairs to these components of a rural home can be expensive. Broome County residents can contact Opportunities for Chenango, Quaranta Housing Services Center, at 866-456-3051 ext. 128 to complete a survey to determine the need for funding to perform well and septic work.

State Budget Includes Dollars for Alms House Rehabilitation (2008-04-11: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:28:28 -0400

Broome County Executive Barbara J. Fiala announced today that Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) has secured $1.5 million dollars in this year's state budget to renovate the Alms House on the Broome Community College Campus.

The Alms House is a nearly 140 year old brick structure near the front of the campus. County Executive Barbara Fiala and members of the local preservation society have lobbied to keep the Alms House from being torn down. Achieving consensus on what to do with the building, however, has been difficult. County officials are working with college officials, community representatives and state lawmakers right now to determine the best possible use for the building.

"We are currently working on an exciting idea that we think will be a good fit for the college and the community at large," said Executive Fiala. "This $1.5 million dollars secured by Assemblywoman Lupardo is going to keep the Alms House from being torn down and it will provide us the necessary time to proceed with our feasibility study for the building. I want to thank the Assemblywoman for her dedication to this project."

"The Alms House is a historic land mark in our community that has the potential to play a new and exciting role at BCC," said Assemblywoman Lupardo. "I applaud County Executive Fiala for her vision in recognizing the importance of the Alms House, both in our community's past and future."

County Executive Fiala has committed county financial support to match any state dollars set aside to renovate the Alms House. After the George Harvey Justice Project is done, Fiala says she expects enough tobacco money to be left over and she plans to dedicate those funds to the Alms House renovation.

Environmental Photography To Be Showcased At Public Library (2008-04-09: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:34:01 -0400

The Broome County Environmental Management Council's (EMC) 2008 Joyce K. L. Smith Environmental Photography Show & Competition winning and honorable mention photographs will be exhibited at the Broome County Public Library, 185 Court Street, downtown Binghamton, from May 7 through June 27. The public is invited to attend an opening reception and awards ceremony in the second floor exhibit gallery Wednesday, May 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

The show and competition portrays all aspects of Broome County's natural and cultural environments captured through the eyes of citizens. The EMC received 356 entries from 142 amateur photographers in the following five (5) categories: Wildlife; Plantlife; Natural Landscape; Cultural Landscape; and People in Action. Competition judges selected one winner, the best overall submission from a local high school student and up to five honorable mentions in each category for recognition. Fifty-one local high school students submitted work in the competition.

Prizes were furnished by the following competition and show sponsors: Garland Gallery, Che Bella Fine Framing, Beveled Edge, Silver Image Photographics, and Tuthill's Photo.

Now in its twelfth year, the show and competition honors the late Joyce K.L. Smith, a local environmental and political activist. Her family established a Memorial Fund in 1999 to advance the EMC's environmental education efforts. Donations to the Fund are always welcome and appreciated.

The EMC is Broome County government's citizen environmental advisory group. For information about the Show & Competition or for EMC membership information please contact the EMC at 607.778.2116, weekdays. The Broome County Public Library hours are 9am - 8 pm, Monday through Thursday, and 9 am – 5 pm, Fridays and Saturdays.

En-Joie Golf Course to Open April 10^th (2008-04-09: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:26:43 -0400

The En-Joie Golf Course located in Endicott, NY will open for the 2008 golf season tomorrow Thursday, April 10th. For tee times contact the pro shop at (607)785-1661.

En-Joie Early Season golf rates thru May 15th including cart rental are as follows:

Adult-----Mon-Fri $36-----Sat-Sun $40

Senior-----Mon-Fri $32-----Sat-Sun $38

Junior-----Mon-Fri $22-----Sat-Sun $30

En-Joie served as the host of the PGA Tour's BC Open from 1972 through 2006, and now hosts the Champions Tour's Dick's Sporting Goods Open. This year, the Dick's Sporting Goods Open will be held July 4th-6th. For more information about the course please log on to: www.enjoiegolf.com

Steps to a HealthierNY Program Touts Healthier Environment Project (2008-04-09: Health Dept - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:45:21 -0400

In celebration of Public Health Week, April 7-13, the Broome County Health Department's Steps to a HealthierNY program and its partners will showcase a built environment project at Confluence Park in the City of Binghamton. The project is the result of an award received by the City of Binghamton last year from the Steps to a HealthierNY program and United Health Services Stay Healthy Center as part of an initiative to reduce the burden of obesity in Broome County.

Front Street Dog Shelter in Need of Blankets (2008-04-09: Executive - Press Release)

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:03:55 -0400

The Front Street Dog Shelter is in great need of blankets for dogs. The shelter is seeking donations of blankets or comforters without holes that are full-size, queen size or king size. The blankets will help to keep the animals warm and calm during their stay. Blankets can be dropped off at the Front St Dog Shelter located at 110 Cutler Pond Road in Binghamton Monday thru Friday from 10am to 4:30pm. Items that are dropped off after hours should be placed in the protected entrance way by the front door. For more information contact the shelter directly at 607.778.2493.

All News Releases

webmaster@co.broome.ny.us (Broome County Webmaster) — Sat, 17 May 2008 14:27:14 -0400

All Broome County Government News Releases