James M. Odato is reporting at Capital Confidential National Grid has agreed to pay more than $27,000 for providing free golf games and meals to two former employees of the state's utility regulating agency. The settlement covers improper gifts of more than $7,000 to the employees of the state Department of Public Service between 2002 and 2010. The recipients of National Grid's favors, now former Department of Public Service employees, paid fines, as well. National Grid has agreed to provide ethics training to its employees as part of the settlement. Last year, National Grid agreed to pay nearly $1.7 million to settle a case alleging violations of the state Public Service Law regarding illegal gifts. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.