Wednesday News Brief

Over 1,000 Acres of Le Roy Farmland Permanently Preserved

More than 1,000 acres of farmland in Le Roy will remain in agriculture forever under four new conservation agreements between Stein Farms and the Genesee Valley Conservancy.
The deal protects 1,002 acres through state-funded agricultural easements, meaning the development rights have been purchased and the land can never be used for commercial, residential, or industrial projects. Nearly 70 percent of the acreage is classified as USDA Prime Farmland.
Stein Farms, a third-generation dairy operation that’s been in business for 70 years, pursued the protection in part because of family history. Founder Louis Stein lost the family’s original cabbage farm in Chili when Interstate 490 split the property in half, forcing a move to Le Roy — where the dairy business began with just two cows.
Today, Ray and Shelley Stein, along with the second and third generations of the family, say protecting the land ensures it stays productive for generations to come. Conservation officials note farmers typically receive far less for development rights than they would from private developers, calling this a commitment to agriculture over profit.
The project is part of a broader farmland protection effort that has now safeguarded more than 29,000 acres across the region.

Data Center Discussion Event Set for Tonight in Batavia

An informational community event focused on the proposed A.I. data center at STAMP is happening tonight in Batavia.
“Desserts and Data Center Discussion #5” runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at Richmond Memorial Library on Ross Street. Organizers say the free event will feature an hour-long presentation about the proposed project and its potential impact on local wetlands, forests, and the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, followed by a brief Q-and-A session and campaign updates.
Space is limited, with in-person attendance encouraged for those who live, work, or recreate in Genesee County. The event will also be livestreamed on the “Allies of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation” Facebook page.

Study Says Rising Seas May Threaten Millions More Than Expected

A new study published Wednesday in Nature warns that climate change-driven sea level rise could threaten tens of millions more people than previously believed.
Researchers found that about 90% of coastal impact studies underestimated baseline sea levels by an average of one foot. The issue stems from a mismatch in how land elevation and sea levels are measured, creating what scientists call a “methodological blind spot.”
If global sea levels rise just over three feet by the end of the century — as some projections suggest — up to 37% more land could be flooded, putting an additional 77 to 132 million people at risk, particularly in the Global South and Southeast Asia.
Scientists say the findings could significantly affect future coastal planning and climate adaptation efforts.

Sue Underwood Named Geneseean of the Year

The executive director of Genesee Cancer Assistance has been named Geneseean of the Year — an honor she quickly redirects back to the nonprofit she leads. Underwood says serving the entire county, not just Batavia, has always been her mission.
Her connection to GCA is deeply personal. In 2003, her daughter Kayla was diagnosed with leukemia at just eight years old. Then in 2010, Underwood faced her own battle with breast cancer. The organization supported her through surgery, chemotherapy and radiation — inspiring her to give back.
She began volunteering, later became a certified cancer counselor, and eventually stepped into a leadership role. Underwood says her drive has always been simple: use her gifts to help people.
For that dedication and lasting impact, Genesee County is now recognizing her service.

Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 80 as America’s Population Rapidly Ages

The oldest baby boomers turn 80 in 2026, marking a major demographic milestone as the generation that reshaped American culture and politics moves further into old age.
Born between 1946 and 1964, boomers drove social movements, powered economic growth, and defined decades of pop culture. High-profile members of the generation turning 80 include entertainers, athletes, and former presidents.
By the end of this decade, all baby boomers will be 65 and older, and the number of Americans over 80 is projected to double within 20 years.
Meanwhile, the share of senior citizens in the U.S. is expected to climb significantly by 2050, while the percentage of children declines — reshaping the nation’s workforce, healthcare systems, and long-term economic outlook.

Le Roy Girls Win Section V Title in Overtime Thriller, 50-42 Over C-R/B-R

It was an instant classic Wednesday night in the Section V Class B2 girls basketball championship. Sixth-seeded Le Roy Oatkan Knights defeated top-seeded Cuba-Rushford/Bolivar-Richburg 50-42 in overtime to capture their first sectional title since 2007.
Le Roy led 17-12 at halftime after a three-pointer from Kylie Wilson sparked the offense, and the Knights pushed the lead to eight in the third quarter. But C-R/B-R stormed back late, tying the game in the final seconds when Aubrey Williams drilled a clutch three-pointer to force overtime.
In the extra period, Le Roy locked down defensively and sealed the win at the free throw line. Maddie Paddock and Caton led the Knights with 12 points each, with Caton earning tournament MVP honors. Lilly Farwell led C-R/B-R with a game-high 17.
Le Roy now advances to the Class B crossover Saturday morning against Waterloo at Finger Lakes Community College.