Friday News Brief

GENESEE COUNTY RANKS SECOND IN STATE FOR SALES TAX GROWTH

Genesee County is near the top in New York when it comes to sales tax growth.
A new report from the New York State Comptroller’s Office shows the county ranked second statewide in year-over-year growth for the first quarter of 2026.
Genesee County collected $14.19 million in sales tax from January through March, up from $12.93 million last year—that’s a 9.7 percent increase.
Statewide, sales tax revenue rose 5.1 percent over the same period, meaning Genesee County significantly outpaced the overall trend.
Officials say a number of factors could be driving the increase, including inflation, higher fuel costs tied to the Iran conflict, and shifts in consumer spending.
The data also shows a big spike in March locally, with revenues jumping more than 24 percent compared to a year ago.

 

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS EVENT HAPPENING TODAY IN BATAVIA

A community event focused on mental health awareness is taking place today in downtown Batavia.
The second annual Community Mental Health Awareness Event runs from 11 am to 1 pm outside City Hall at City Centre, bringing together more than two dozen local organizations.
Organizers say the goal is to reduce stigma, share personal stories, and connect people with resources available in the community.
The event includes speakers, resource tables, raffle baskets, and a free lunch, with pizza available starting at 11:30.
Officials encourage anyone looking for support—or information for themselves or a loved one—to stop by and learn more.

 

HOUSE PASSES HOMELAND SECURITY FUNDING BILL TO END SHUTDOWN

The House has approved a bipartisan bill to fund much of the Department of Homeland Security, ending what had become the longest agency shutdown in history.
The measure now heads to Donald Trump to be signed into law.
The deal funds key areas like airport security and disaster response, but leaves out immigration enforcement operations, which lawmakers plan to address separately.
The funding lapse had raised concerns about disruptions at airports and reduced emergency resources, including FEMA’s disaster relief funding.
Lawmakers say the move avoids further disruption, but the broader fight over immigration policy and funding is far from over as Congress looks ahead to additional negotiations.

 

LAWSUIT FILED OVER FIRING AT BATAVIA DOWNS

A former Batavia Downs employee is suing Western Regional Off-Track Betting, claiming he was wrongfully fired after reporting concerns about management.
David Hughson, a longtime bartender and supervisor, filed the lawsuit in state court, alleging he was terminated after raising complaints about the conduct of the casino’s chief operating officer.
The suit also names CEO Byron Brown, claiming he was involved in the decision to fire Hughson.
According to the filing, Hughson reported what he described as a hostile work environment and misconduct involving senior leadership, with multiple employees allegedly backing up those concerns.
He was fired in March and says he was given no clear explanation beyond being told he was “detrimental” to the company.
Hughson is seeking up to $15 million in damages, along with reinstatement and back pay.
Western Regional OTB denies the claims, saying the employee was properly terminated and that it plans to defend its position.

 

FOOD TRUCK RODEO AND LIVE MUSIC TONIGHT IN BATAVIA

A full night of food, cars, and live music is set for tonight at the Genesee County Fairgrounds.
The Friday Night Food Truck Rodeo runs from 4 to 9 pm, featuring a variety of food trucks, along with a stock car and go-kart showcase starting at 5.
Live music kicks off at 7 pm with a Morgan Wallen tribute band performing inside the Exhibition Building.
Admission and parking are free, with both indoor and outdoor dining available. Organizers say it’s a great way to kick off the weekend.

 

 

 

 

 

DEFENSE SECRETARY CLASHES WITH LAWMAKERS OVER IRAN WAR

Pete Hegseth faced another tense hearing on Capitol Hill, clashing with Democratic lawmakers over the ongoing war with Iran.
During a three-hour Senate hearing, Hegseth rejected claims the conflict lacked a clear strategy, while defending the administration’s actions and a proposed $1.5 trillion military budget.
Democrats raised concerns about civilian casualties, the lack of congressional approval, and whether the U.S. is in a worse position following the conflict.
Republicans largely backed Hegseth, pointing to national security threats and the need for increased defense spending.
The debate comes as a key deadline approaches under the War Powers Act, adding urgency to the ongoing dispute over the war’s direction.

 

 

 

BATAVIA SOFTBALL ROLLS, NOTRE DAME FALLS IN TIGHT ONE

Batavia turned in a strong performance on the softball diamond, beating Brockport 7-1 behind a solid all-around effort.
Notre Dame was right there with Aquinas but came up just short in a 9-7 loss, while Alexander handled Attica 5-1 in another Genesee Region matchup.
On the flag football side, Batavia ran into a tough Greece Arcadia squad, falling 38-13.