Thursday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on August 21, 2025
Baskin Livestock Review Continues
Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, the City of Batavia Planning and Development Committee spent Tuesday night reviewing the environmental impacts of Bill Baskin’s proposal to rebuild his livestock facility on Howard Street, destroyed by fire last fall.
Consultant Joshua Rogers of Wendel Companies explained that this was part two of a three-part review. Several issues were flagged as “moderate to large,” including wetlands, floodplain concerns, truck traffic, and air emissions. Because of possible chemical releases, the state DEC will require Baskin to obtain a major air facility permit, a process that could take months.
Neighbors voiced concerns about odors, traffic, and health impacts for families living near the site and along the Ellicott Trail.
The committee voted unanimously to approve parts one and two of the environmental assessment. A final part three will be prepared for review in September, when the board will decide if the project poses any significant impacts.
Tonight at the Holland Land Office Museum: “Women in the Sky” Presentation
The Holland Land Office Museum hosts its Guest Speaker Series tonight at 7 p.m. Special guest Nellie Ludemann of the National Women’s Hall of Fame will present “Women in the Sky: Hall of Fame Aviators & Astronauts.” The talk highlights pioneering women in aviation, space, and science who broke barriers and inspired future generations. Admission is $5, or $3 for museum members. To reserve a spot, call 585-343-4727 or email hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
Author Dan Crofts Shares “Nine Lives of Autism” at Arc GLOW
Author Dan Crofts brought humor and insight to Arc GLOW’s Community Center in Batavia while discussing his memoir, Nine Lives of Autism. Crofts, who was diagnosed on the spectrum, structured the book after the nine Muses of Greek history, with each chapter exploring a theme from comedy to personal challenges. He says the goal is to give readers a deeper, more nuanced understanding of autism while correcting misconceptions. Crofts, who also works as a direct support professional with Arc GLOW’s IGNITE program, hopes his work encourages both empathy and connection.
Batavia Man Charged in Darien Lake Vandalism
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 28-year-old Austin C. Estabrook of Batavia, accused of vandalizing a Tesla at Six Flags Darien Lake. Investigators say Estabrook carved the word “NAZI” into the vehicle during the July 11th incident. He is charged with third-degree criminal mischief and making graffiti. Estabrook was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released with an appearance ticket. He is scheduled to answer the charges in Darien Town Court on August 12th.
