Bills flag a 'beacon of resilience' after Ovid fire
Jan 23, 2025
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Residents in the Town of Ovid have experienced devastation after a fire destroyed multiple businesses and apartments.
Despite the mayhem and the current recovery, there is one symbol standing tall for the town — the Buffalo Bills.
In front of the ruins of the former Italian Kitchen, a Bills flag was found. Despite the dust, the flag survived and continued to fly for the entire day.
(News 8 WROC/Emalee Burkhard)
Joe Borst is the town supervisor for the Town of Ovid. He shared his amazement that something so small as a Bills flag led to a massive conversation throughout the town. He shared his sentiments in a statement:
"The flag has become a testament to the unwavering love and pride that local business owners and residents have for the Buffalo Bills. It’s a powerful symbol of unity and strength during a time of great loss."
It was revealed on Wednesday that the fire was started by a portable charging device. There were minor injuries, but 15-20 people were displaced after an apartment building was destroyed.
Around 100 firefighters responded to the fire and crews are working to clear the debris. The Ovid Community Thrift Store is helping all of the residents who were impacted by the fire by offering free items.
(News 8 WROC/Emalee Burkhard)
The community is still healing and rebuilding, but they still have a symbol they can look at to remind them of their resilience.