Friday News Brief

Genesee County Kicks Off 250th Celebration with Revolutionary War Series

Genesee County’s year-long celebration of the countries 250th anniversary is officially underway, with nearly a dozen events planned across the county.
The series began yesterday at GO Art! in Batavia, where retired history professor Derek Maxfield presented “Thomas Paine, Common Sense, and the Coming of Independence.” Maxfield says his approach focuses on storytelling — digging into the personalities of Paine, Benjamin Franklin, and even King George the Third — and offering a more nuanced look at the Revolution.
The countywide effort is being coordinated by Historian Michael Eula, supported by a $15,000 state grant. Upcoming events include Revolutionary War-themed festival activities, historical cemetery tours, and actor portrayals of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Organizers say more events will be added as the celebration continues through November.

Galentine’s Day Celebration Tonight at Batavia Downs

Looking for a fun night out with friends? A Galentine’s Day celebration is happening tonight at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel.
The private VIP event runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and features Maker’s Mark tastings, hands-on decorating, giveaways, dinner, a photo station, and gifts. TV celebrity psychic Karyn Reece will also be on hand for readings.
Tickets are $99 and include $50 in free play. Organizers say the event is designed as a fun, flavor-filled evening celebrating friendship.

House Passes SAVE Act Requiring Proof of Citizenship to Vote

House Republicans on Wednesday narrowly approved the SAVE America Act, a bill that would require Americans to provide documentary proof of citizenship — such as a passport or birth certificate — when registering to vote. The measure also mandates a valid photo ID to cast a ballot. It passed mostly along party lines, 218 to 213.
Republicans say the legislation is needed to prevent voter fraud and enforce existing laws barring noncitizens from voting. But Democrats argue voter fraud is extremely rare and warn the new requirements could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters.
The bill would also require states to share voter data with the Department of Homeland Security to verify citizenship, raising privacy concerns among election officials.
The legislation now heads to the Senate, where it faces significant hurdles under the chamber’s 60-vote filibuster rule.

Attic Fire Displaces Four in Attica

An early morning fire forced four people out of their apartments in the village of Attica Wednesday, but thankfully no one was hurt.
Crews were dispatched just before 3:40 a.m. to a multi-unit house on Exchange Street after flames were reported in the attic. Everyone inside — including several pets — made it out safely before firefighters brought the situation under control.
Investigators say the fire started because of an electrical problem in the attic space. Damage to the building is estimated at around 75-thousand dollars.
Firefighters from several surrounding departments assisted at the scene, and emergency crews remained there for about four hours.
The displaced residents are now staying with relatives and friends while the property owner addresses the damage.

Guest Speaker Series Continues Tonight at Holland Land Office Museum

The Holland Land Office Museum in Batavia continues its 2026 Guest Speaker Series tonight with a presentation by Oakfield resident Dyder Smith.
Smith will share stories reflecting on life in the South, including experiences from her upbringing in Alabama and the history of her ancestors.
The program runs from 7 to 8 p.m. at the museum on West Main Street. Admission is by suggested donation.
Organizers ask anyone planning to attend to contact the museum in advance.

Lawmakers Renew Push for Biosolids Moratorium in New York

State lawmakers and environmental advocates are again pushing for a five-year pause on spreading sewage sludge — also known as biosolids — on farmland across New York.
Supporters say the material can contain PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to cancer and other health concerns. They argue a temporary moratorium would give the state time to study contamination risks and better regulate the practice.
The Senate approved the measure last year, but it stalled in the Assembly. It’s now back in committee in both chambers.
Opponents, including wastewater treatment officials and some lawmakers, warn a ban could drive up costs for small municipalities with limited disposal options.
Meanwhile, other proposals aim to further restrict PFAS in consumer products and lower allowable levels in drinking water statewide.

Notre Dame Rolls on Senior Night; Woods Hits 1,000 Points

It was a big night on the hardwood Thursday.
Notre Dame cruised past Lyndonville 98-39 on senior night, highlighted by an alley-oop dunk from Carter Suro to Matthew McCulley. McCulley finished with 25 points, while Chase Antinore added 19 and 10 rebounds as the Irish improved to 14-3.
In other action, Alexander topped Attica 59-39, with Kingston Woods surpassing the 1,000-career-point mark. He scored 15 in the win.
Elba also earned a 50-41 victory over Oakfield-Alabama behind 16 points from Alex Rascoe.