Friday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on May 2, 2025
Genesee County DMV Asks Residents to Prepare for REAL ID
Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act—and the Genesee County DMV wants you to be ready.
To fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings, you’ll need either a REAL ID, an Enhanced License or ID, or a valid U.S. Passport.
If you already have an Enhanced License or Passport, you’re good to go—you don’t need a REAL ID.
To get a REAL ID, you’ll need original documents proving:
Citizenship or lawful status
Identity
Social Security enrollment
And two proofs of New York State residency
Name changed? Bring certified documents showing the change.
Remember—photocopies won’t be accepted. And May 7 isn’t a deadline—it’s when the rule goes into effect.
To speed things up, double-check your documents, bring originals, and use the DMV’s checklist at geneseecountydmv.net.
Blood Drive Today
A blood drive is happening today, Friday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Genesee County Department of Social Services, 5130 East Main Street in Batavia. Appointments are preferred—schedule through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit?RedCrossBlood.org?with sponsor code BATAVIANY, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. A valid ID is required to donate.
Details Emerge on Hagreen Arrest
13WHAM has learned new details about the March arrest of Todd Hagreen, a Spencerport man who serves as the Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics for the Brockport Central School District.
According to the Saratoga Springs Police Department, Hagreen was arrested early on the morning of March 13 and charged with driving while intoxicated. Officers say he was pulled over after making an unsafe lane change.
The arrest report states that Hagreen had red, glazed eyes and that the smell of alcohol was present on his breath. He later failed a field sobriety test at the scene.
A breathalyzer revealed a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher—right at the legal limit in New York State. Police confirmed this was his first DWI offense.
Vehicle paperwork from Brockport schools, obtained by 13WHAM, matches the car Hagreen was driving at the time of the arrest. He was issued multiple traffic tickets and a bill of particulars returnable to Saratoga Springs City Court.
Previously, the district had sent a letter to families noting that an unidentified employee had been arrested and placed on leave.
Big Brother Hopefuls Pack the Batavia Downs
Could Batavia Downs be the launchpad for the next Big Brother star?
On Wednesday, more than 300 people turned out for open auditions at the Downs, all hoping to land a spot on the long-running CBS reality show. It’s the same place Season 17 winner Steve Moses auditioned back in 2015.
Hosted by Rochester’s Channel 8, the event gave hopefuls 60 seconds inside a black-curtained booth to make their case to casting producers. From first-timers to seasoned applicants, the energy was high—many dressed to stand out and brought big personalities.
Auditioning fans came from across the region and beyond—including Buffalo, Victor, and even New York City. Some had been lifelong viewers, while others were drawn to the competitive challenges and the chance to play the ultimate social game.
Producers will now review the tapes and begin narrowing down the pool. If history repeats itself, Western New York could once again be represented inside the Big Brother house this summer.
Free Concert Tonight
Looking for live music this weekend? Head to The Goose in Oakfield Friday night for Community Acoustic Music Night, featuring local performer Steve Novak.
It’s a free, carry-in event—bring your own food and drinks, and enjoy a relaxed evening of music starting at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will also be available.
The Goose is located at 33 South Main Street in Oakfield. This event is supported by the New York State Council on the Arts.
Town of Bethany Meets Road Bump in Water Project
The Town of Bethany is making progress on its $21.68 million Water District No. 5 project, which is designed to bring municipal water to 474 properties along several roads. However, there are still eight property owners who have not signed the required easement agreements.
As of a meeting Wednesday night, town officials expressed frustration over the delay, as they need 94 easements to proceed with construction. The town has already sent numerous letters and made several personal visits, but until all agreements are signed, the project can’t go out to bid.
If the final easements aren’t obtained, the town could face redesigning parts of the project, which would delay progress and incur additional costs. The town is urging residents to make a decision soon to keep the project on track.
