Friday News Brief

Stream Data Centers Funds Tank Removal at STAMP Site Amid Ongoing Review

Stream Data Centers is moving forward with early work at the STAMP campus in Genesee County, funding the removal of previously installed hydrogen storage tanks as part of its agreement with Plug Power. The work is being done with town approval in Alabama and is separate from ongoing environmental and site plan reviews tied to the proposed Project Double Reed.
Company officials say the move is proactive, aimed at keeping the project on schedule if it ultimately receives approval. Stream is planning a major data center development at the site, taking over Plug Power’s interest and building out its own infrastructure, including transmission lines and a substation, at no cost to taxpayers.
If approved, the project would bring about 125 full-time jobs paying over $100,000 on average, along with more than 1,000 construction jobs during development. It’s also projected to generate over $550 million in regional economic impact.
Stream says it will continue community outreach in the Town of Alabama as the review process continues.

Hawley Says He Was Blocked from Entering Capitol by Protesters

Assemblyman Steve Hawley says he was physically blocked from entering the State Capitol by a group of ICE protesters while heading to session.
In a statement, Hawley said he asked State Police for help but was told they had been instructed to stand down and not intervene. He called that response “deeply concerning,” saying it prevented a lawmaker from carrying out his duties.
Hawley emphasized his support for law enforcement but questioned the decision not to assist, adding that no elected official should be denied access to the Capitol.
He acknowledged the right to peaceful protest but said it should not interfere with public safety or government operations.
Hawley is now calling for a full review of the incident and changes to ensure it does not happen again.

Divers Discover $1M in Spanish Treasure off Florida Coast

Hidden beneath the waters of Florida’s “Treasure Coast,” a shipwreck salvage team has uncovered more than 1,000 silver and gold coins, believed to date back to Spanish colonies in Bolivia, Mexico, and Peru.
The discovery is tied to the historic 1715 Spanish fleet, which was destroyed by a hurricane while returning to Spain, scattering treasure across the ocean floor. Salvagers say some coins still show visible dates and mint marks, offering valuable insight for historians and collectors.
Officials say the find could be worth around $1 million, adding to millions already recovered from the area over the years.
Under Florida law, the state can claim up to 20% of recovered artifacts for public display, with the rest divided among the salvage team.
Experts say discoveries like this aren’t just about value—they’re a rare glimpse into the past.

Batavia Downs Expansion Plans Spark Debate Over Kmart Site

A proposal to expand Batavia Downs Gaming is moving forward—but not without debate over whether a long-vacant property across the street could be a better option.
Leaders with the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation are considering adding about 73 hotel rooms and building a large event center next to the existing hotel. The plan would use current space on-site, including parts of the paddock area.
But board member Ed Morgan raised a familiar question: why not buy the former Kmart building nearby instead? The property has been vacant since 2018, though officials say it could cost around $8 million.
Supporters of the current plan argue keeping everything on one campus—connected to the track and gaming floor—is key to success and future state funding. Others say the Kmart site could offer more flexibility and eliminate the need to rent parking space.
For now, the next step is hiring an architectural firm to create designs and cost estimates, which could be used to seek funding from New York State.
The proposal now heads to the full board for further consideration.

Stafford Betterment Committee Plans Events, Pushes for Growth

The Betterment Committee of Stafford is continuing its work to bring the community together through events and local initiatives.
The volunteer group, made up of about 15 members, is focused on building community pride while working toward nonprofit status to support future projects.
Up next is a Euchre fundraising tournament this Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Parish Hall on Main Street. It’s a $10 donation, with prizes awarded.
The committee also has a full summer schedule planned, including “Junk in the Trunk” sales at the Red Osier parking lot, “Music in the Park” at Emery Park, and a first-ever Car and Craft Show in August.
Organizers say they’re always looking for more volunteers, with updates available on their Facebook page.

Senators Push “Final Offer” as Airport Chaos Grows

Senators are scrambling to reach a deal to end the Department of Homeland Security shutdown, now in its sixth week, as travel disruptions worsen across the country.
John Thune called the latest proposal a “last and final” offer, urging Democrats to act quickly. Details haven’t been released, but talks are happening behind closed doors as both sides try to break the stalemate.
The shutdown has left TSA workers without pay, with thousands calling out and hundreds quitting, leading to long lines and delays at major airports.
Democrats say Republican proposals don’t go far enough in limiting immigration enforcement, while Donald Trump has warned of possible drastic measures, including deploying the National Guard to airports.
With Congress set to leave for spring break, pressure is mounting to reach a compromise before disruptions get even worse.