Welcome, LC! I'll give it a stab at answering your questions, though I can't be as thorough as I'd like.

1. Ball pythons can definitely be affected by chemical fumes, but I have never heard of one being affected by teflong, incense, or candles. I think birds are more sensitive, and that was why canaries were carried by miners. Still, I'd use caution and try to keep the area well-ventilated and not subject the snake to unnecessary fumes.

2. NERD might be within what you'd consider a reasonable drive http://www.newenglandreptile.com/, and we have a few members in NY who may be able to point you to other reputable breeders in your area.

3. I prefer (because I can see my snakes prefer) ceramic, stone, glass, or similar sturdy, heavy substances for hides. PVC pieces are an inexpensive alternative, but make sure you get a minimum of 3" pipe so it's not likely to wedge into it so tight you can't get it out if you need to. Polymer clay can be used to build custom hides easily, though you should give pieces a week or two to air out before use.

4. Good cage cleaning post here: http://www.ball-pythons.net/PNphpBB2...ic-t-3202.html including info on vinegar and Nolvasan.

5. Not really. It has more to do with age and how it's been treated previously, and just an inborn inclination to be calm or nippy or what have you.

Welcome to the site, and I hope my $0.02 was useful!