Skip to main content

east bethany

Two local soldiers in the Army National Guard receive promotions

By Press Release

Press Release:

Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Emmanuel Fisher from Le Roy, assigned to the Company E, 427th Brigade Support Battalion, received a promotion September 15 to the rank of private.

Makenzie Lafreniere from East Bethany, assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company, received a promotion August 16 to the rank of sergeant.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism, and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best-qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

Free Medicare 2025 info event is October 8 to help navigate upcoming changes and scams

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Office for the Aging is pleased to announce an informative and free event designed to help residents of Genesee County navigate the upcoming changes to Medicare in 2025. 

The event will take place on Tuesday, October 8, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Town of Bethany Community Center, located at 10510 Bethany Center Road, East Bethany. 

This event is open to Genesee County residents who are new to Medicare in 2025, currently on Medicare, or caregivers attending with a Medicare recipient. Reservations are required, and attendees will have the option to select a boxed lunch upon making their reservation. To reserve your spot, please call 585-343-1611.

The event is made possible through funds from the NY State Office for the Aging, NY Connects, the Administration for Community Living, the Genesee Senior Foundation, Inc., and the support of the Genesee County Legislature.

Program Highlights: 

  • Genesee/Orleans Health Department will discuss effective communication with healthcare providers regarding medications and overall health.
  • New York Statewide Senior Action Council, Inc. will provide insights into the latest Medicare scams to be aware of during the upcoming Open Enrollment season. 
  • Genesee County Office for the Aging will have a Medicare Specialist present to go over the changes coming to Medicare in 2025, followed by a Q&A session.

This event aims to empower and educate attendees about the changes to Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D plans, giving them the confidence to make informed decisions moving forward.

For individuals with disabilities or language interpretation needs, requests for reasonable accommodations should be made at least five days in advance. 

For more information or to RSVP, please contact the Genesee County Office for the Aging at 585-343-1611.

Urbanczyk graduates from PennWest Edinboro

By Press Release

Press Release:

Charles Urbanczyk of East Bethany graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Speech & Hearing Sciences from Pennsylvania Western University on May 4.

Urbanczyk, who studied at PennWest's Edinboro campus, was among nearly 1,800 students who received undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees.

PennWest University celebrated the successes of these graduates during spring commencement ceremonies on each campus.

VTSU congratulates David Greer on their class of 2024 graduation

By Press Release

Press Release:

Vermont State University (VTSU) is pleased to announce that David Greer, of East Bethany is part of VTSU's inaugural graduating class for May 2024!

This diverse group of over 1000 students hailed from more than 200 Vermont towns, over 20 states, and various countries around the world. Congratulations to Vermont State University's Class of 2024!

VTSU congratulates David Greer for earning Spring 2024 dean's list honors

By Press Release

Press Release:

Vermont State University (VTSU) is proud to congratulate David Greer of East Bethany, for being named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2024 semester. Well done!

Dean's List designation is reserved for students who maintain full-time status and a semester grade point average of 3.5 or higher.

SUNY Canton celebrates 3 local graduated in the Class of 2024

By Press Release

Press Release:

Nearly 800 graduates received the credits necessary to graduate from SUNY Canton.

"On behalf of the entire SUNY Canton community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your continued success," said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. "As you step into the next chapter of your life, remember that the skills and knowledge you've gained at SUNY Canton will serve you well in all your future endeavors. Embrace the challenges ahead with confidence and optimism. Always strive to make a positive impact in your communities and remember that SUNY Canton will always be there to assist you in your journey."

SUNY Canton Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of the Canton College Foundation Tracey L. Thompson said that graduates were joining the extensive network of nearly 40,000 SUNY Canton alumni excelling in various career paths. "The Class of 2024 can make an immediate impact by sharing their enthusiasm about this achievement," she said.

The college's 116th Commencement Ceremony was held Saturday, May 11, in the Roos House Convocation, Athletic and Recreation Center. Students who graduated at any time in the past year are invited to participate in the ceremony, including summer, fall, winter, and spring graduates. A complete list of graduates is available on www.canton.edu.

Area graduates include:

  • Dawn Hunter of Batavia, earned their Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies.
  • Jared Barnum of Byron, earned their Bachelor of Technology degree in Criminal Investigation.
  • Zechariah Gowanlock of East Bethany, earned their Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Management.

Upcoming summer walks and public programs announced at Genesee County Park

By Press Release

Press Release:

Come enjoy the summer season at the Genesee County Park and Forest! Join us this June, July, and August for a variety of walks, hikes, and environmental education programs. 

Programs include:

  • Saturday, June 1, July 6, August 3 – Guided Dog Walks
  • Saturday, June 29 – WNY PRISM Volunteer Workday (Free)
  • Saturday, June 29 – Free Family Fishing Day at DeWitt Recreation Area (Free)
  • Friday, July 5 – New Moon Stargazing Walk
  • Saturday, July 6 – Diving Deep into Black Creek
  • Monday, July 15 through Friday, July 19 – Environmental Science Summer Camp ($95/camper) 
  • Saturday, August 3 – Music in the Park at DeWitt Recreation Area (Free)
  • Saturday, August 10 – Kayaking at DeWitt Recreation Area ($25/person with kayak rental)
  • Saturday, August 17 – Painting in the Park at DeWitt Recreation Area (Free)

Walks are led by a guide who takes you through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. Each will explore a different topic. Walks are approximately 1 - 2 miles long over easy terrain and all are family friendly. 

Cost is $5 per person, and $10 per family unless otherwise noted. Please pre-register to receive the exact meeting location and other details! Please pre-register by visiting https://bit.ly/GenCoParkRegistration or by calling 585-344-1122.

Environmental Science Summer Camp information can be found at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks. Register your 7th - 10th-grade student by July 8 for a week-long adventure exploring the environment and environmental science careers at the Genesee County Park!

For more information visit our website at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks/, or contact Claudia Nusstein at Claudia.Nusstein@geneseeny.gov or (585) 344-1122.

Urbanczyk named to PennWest spring 2024 dean's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

Congratulations to Charles Urbanczyk of East Bethany on being named to Pennsylvania Western University Dean's List for the 2024 spring semester.

Over 3,100 Pennsylvania Western University students earned placement on the Dean's List. Degree-seeking undergraduate students who achieve high academic standards are identified in accordance with the following criteria:

  • The student must earn a minimum semester GPA of 3.40.
  • The student must earn a minimum of 12 graded credits during the semester, not including credits by proficiency examinations, incomplete grades, temporary grades (e.g., Not Reported), or satisfactory/unsatisfactory grades.

Urbanczyk studies at PennWest's Edinboro Campus.

Genesee County Park announces upcoming walks and programs

By Press Release

Press Release:

Come enjoy the spring season at the Genesee County Park and Forest! Join us this March, April, and May for a variety of walks, hikes, and environmental education programs.

Programs include:

  • Saturday, March 23 - Amphibian Adventure
  • Saturday, April 6 - Eclipse Stories, Myths, and Science Walk
  • Sunday, April 7 - GeneSEEtheEclipse Story Time and Craft
  • Sunday, April 7 - Springtime Woods Walk
  • Monday, April 8 - Exploring the Eclipse at the Genesee County Park
  • Saturday, April 13 and May 4 - Guided Dog Walks
  • Saturday, April 13 - Indoor Lecture: Stewardship at Home
  • Wednesday, April 17, April 24 and May 8 - Migration Morning Walks
  • Saturday, April 20 - Earth Day Spring Sweep Cleanup at DeWitt Recreation Area (Free)
  • Saturday, May 18 - Genesee Valley Birding Cup (Free)
  • Saturday, May 25 - Full Moon Owl Prowl

Walks are led by a guide who takes you through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. Each will explore a different topic. Walks are approximately 1 - 2 miles long over easy terrain and are family-friendly. 

Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family (unless otherwise noted). Please pre-register to receive the exact meeting location and full details! Please pre-register by visiting https://bit.ly/GenCoParkRegistration or by calling 585-344-1122.

For more information visit our website at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks/, or contact Claudia Nusstein at Claudia.Nusstein@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122.

Buffalo State University announces 6 locals to its fall 2023 dean's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

Buffalo State University is pleased to recognize the following students who have been named to the Fall 2023 Dean's List.

  • Talidy Blijden of Batavia, is majoring in Social Studies Education (7-12)
  • Hunter Doran of East Bethany, is majoring in Biology
  • Annmarie Georgia of Batavia, is majoring in Ceramics
  • Morgan Harrington of Elba, is majoring in Psychology
  • Brianna Smith of Oakfield, is majoring in Childhood Education
  • Amber Snyder of Batavia, is majoring in Fashion, Textile, & Technology

In general, students who have completed at least 12 credit hours and who have attained a GPA of 3.5 or higher qualify for the Buffalo State dean's list. Full criteria and grade-type exceptions can be found in the undergraduate catalog.

VTSU congratulates David Greer for earning fall 2023 dean's list honors

By Press Release

Press Release:

Vermont State University(VTSU) is proud to congratulate David Greer of East Bethany, for being named to the Dean's List for the Fall 2023 semester. Well done!

Dean's List designation is reserved for students who maintain full-time status and a semester grade point average of 3.5 or higher.

SUNY GCC announces their fall 2023 president's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

198 students from Genesee Community College were named to the President's List. Students honored on the President's List have maintained full-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

  • Phyllissa Mitzel of Alexander
  • Julia Lennon of Alexander
  • Kristian Natalizia of Alexander
  • Christian Haller of Alexander
  • Brendan Burgess of Batavia 
  • Rachel Gelabale of Batavia 
  • Alexandra Christopher of Batavia
  • Ryan Bowen of Batavia
  • Alexander Hunt of Batavia
  • Michelle Witherow of Batavia
  • Elizabeth Clark of Batavia 
  • Danielle Clark of Batavia
  • Allison Dent of Batavia
  • Christian DeSantis of Batavia 
  • Aden Chua of Batavia
  • Paul Daniszewski of Batavia
  • Duane Kross of Batavia
  • Ashley Hightower of Batavia 
  • Clara Wood of Batavia
  • Amanda Audelo of Batavia
  • Stacie Stein of Batavia 
  • Joseph Perl of Batavia 
  • Hailey Smith of Batavia
  • Blake Pahuta of Corfu 
  • Alec Skeet of Corfu 
  • Isabella Wheeler of Darien Center
  • Julia Yax of Darien Center 
  • Michael Miller of East Bethany 
  • Kyra Rhodes of Oakfield 
  • Heidi Burdick of Oakfield
  • Tyhler Wood of Oakfield
  • Kenneth Kline of Oakfield
  • Athena Mitchell of Oakfield 
  • Erica Scott of Stafford
  • Joan-Marie Gabalski of Byron 
  • Sean Whiting of Le Roy 
  • Mia Hampton of Le Roy 
  • Maverick Blachowicz of Le Roy 
  • Makayla Grant of Le Roy 
  • Willard Prevost of Le Roy 
  • Morgan Beverly of Le Roy 
  • Shaun Graham of Le Roy
  • Bryn Luckey of Le Roy 
  • Matthew Bolton of Le Roy 
  • Ian Kepple of Le Roy 
  • Colton Dziekan of Pavilion 
  • Dylan Wiedrich of Pavilion 
  • Lauren Russell of Pavilion
  • Alaina Rowe of Pavilion

Zachery Greer named to UM fall 2023 dean's honor roll

By Press Release

Press Release:

Zachery Greer, of East Bethany, was named to the University of Mississippi's Fall 2023 Honor Roll list.

Greer, majoring in Criminal Justice, was named to the Dean's Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.50-3.74.

In order to be eligible for honor roll designation, a student must have completed at least 12 graded hours for the semester and may not be on academic probation during the semester.

 

Genesee County Park winter walks kick off on Saturday

By Press Release

Press Release:

Come enjoy the winter season at the Genesee County Park and Forest! Join us this January and February for a variety of walks, hikes, and environmental education programs. 

Programs include: 

  • Saturday, Jan. 20 - Morning Bird Walk
  • Wednesday, Jan. 24 - Winter Woods Walk
  • Saturday, Jan. 27 - Moonlight Snowshoe Hike
  • Saturday, Feb. 3 - Groundhog Day Walk
  • Saturday, Feb. 17 - Great Backyard Bird Count
  • Saturday, Feb. 24 - Moonlight Snowshoe Hike

Walks are led by a guide who takes you through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. Each will explore a different topic. Walks are approximately 1 - 2 miles long over easy terrain and all are family-friendly. Cost is $5 per person and $10 per family. 

Snowshoe Hikes include snowshoe rental, cost is $5 per person and $15 per family. Please pre-register to receive the exact meeting location and other details!

Please pre-register by visiting https://bit.ly/GenCoParkRegistration or by calling 585-344-1122 For more information visit our website at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks/, or contact Claudia Nusstein at Claudia.Nusstein@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122. Like us on Facebook at: Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry.

Urbanczyk named to PennWest fall 2023 dean's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

Congratulations to Charles Urbanczyk of East Bethany on being named to the Pennsylvania Western University Dean's List for the 2023 fall semester.

Over 3,200 Pennsylvania Western University students earned placement on the Dean's List. Degree-seeking undergraduate students who achieve high academic standards are identified in accordance with the following criteria:

  • The student must earn a minimum semester GPA of 3.40. 
  • The student must earn a minimum of 12 graded credits during the semester, not including credits by proficiency examinations, incomplete grades, temporary grades (e.g., Not Reported), or satisfactory/unsatisfactory grades.

Urbanczyk studies at PennWest's Edinboro Campus.

SUNY GCC announces spring 2023 provost's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

243 students from Genesee Community College named to Provost's List. Students honored on the Provost's List have maintained part-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

  • Melanie Pohl of Alexander 
  • Phyllissa Mitzel of Alexander 
  • Ian Edmonds of Alexander
  • Alan Riggi of Alexander 
  • Kevin Neureuter of Batavia
  • Carrie Lathan of Batavia
  • Jill Kratz of Batavia 
  • Maranda Vanelli of Batavia
  • Michelle Witherow of Batavia 
  • Jennifer Kula of Batavia
  • Naomi Peck of Batavia 
  • Lauren Reimer of Batavia
  • Anthony Haitz of Batavia
  • Brandon Delaporte of Batavia
  • Amanda Woodrich of Batavia
  • Stephanie Gordon of Batavia
  • Shamiqua Hickman of Batavia
  • David Boyce of Batavia 
  • Kelly Smith of Batavia
  • Catherine Richardson of Batavia
  • Kingsley Antwi Darkwa of Batavia
  • Alexander Frank of Batavia
  • Seth Coburn of Batavia
  • James Pulliam of Batavia
  • Don Buckel of Batavia
  • Leah Buckel of Batavia
  • Katie Abaire of Batavia
  • Theresa Tesch of Batavia 
  • Elizabeth Rindell of Batavia 
  • Jessica Barone of Batavia 
  • Maia Hoffman-Miller of Batavia
  • Sara Smith of Batavia
  • Samantha Conibear of Batavia 
  • Mikhail Saxton of Corfu
  • Neve Tilley of Corfu 
  • Colton Tarbell of Corfu 
  • Raymond Vanelli of Corfu 
  • Autumn Korytkowski of Corfu
  • Trenton Woods of East Bethany 
  • Aidan McClurg of Elba
  • Elizabeth Verratti of Elba
  • Genevieve Roman of Oakfield
  • Cierra Tiede of Oakfield 
  • Melinda Osborn of Oakfield 
  • Jacob Cone of Stafford
  • Amara Condidorio of Le Roy
  • Matthew Bolton of Le Roy
  • Dylan Dziekan of Pavilion

Elijah Stringham joins Stonehill college chapel choir

By Press Release

Press Release:

Elijah Stringham of East Bethany, NY, recently traveled to Italy as part of a pilgrimage sponsored by the Stonehill College Chapel Choir.

While abroad, the choir shared their musical talents with parishioners at St. Peter's Basilica, considered one of the holiest sites in the world. They also performed at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi and the Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles in Rome. Before returning to the United States, the students represented the College at a Papal Audience, joining thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square to see Pope Francis.

Interpretive Nature Center brings the outdoors inside for critter activity Saturday

By Joanne Beck

Despite a windy, rain-soaked morning, Natalie Hawley enjoyed herself at Genesee County Park in East Bethany Saturday.

The five-year-old was part of the Create a Critter activity at the Interpretive Nature Center. Supplied with all sorts of twigs, pine cones, cattails, walnuts, and other outdoor embellishments, Natalie and other children got busy creating various creatures during the event.

Leane Hawley of Le Roy, Natalie’s mom, said that it’s something they were both interested in for different reasons.

“We are here with friends, and it’s been a long time since we’ve been here,” Leane said. “I’m very excited to share this with one of my daughters. I just love nature, and just love to explore.”

Meanwhile, Natalie wanted to craft a timely critter for the season.

“I’m making a reindeer,” she said. “Because it’s coming up for Christmas.”

 

Top Photo: Natalie Hawley, 5, picks out some materials to make a reindeer Saturday at the Interpretive Nature Center at Genesee County Park & Forest; other families also participate in Create a Critter at the site in East Bethany; and in photo above, Natalie and her mom Leane work on the project. Photos by Howard Owens.

Charles Donald Urbanczyk is named to Edinboro University's Dean's List

By Press Release

Charles Donald Urbanczyk of East Bethany, NY, 14054 was named to the Dean's List at Edinboro University for the fall 2021 semester.

In order to attain this highly regarded academic honor, students must maintain a quality point average of 3.4 or higher, complete a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit and receive no grade lower than a C in any course.

Urbanczyk was among nearly 1,000 students named to the fall 2021 Dean's List.

 

 

 

Elijah Stringham named to Fall 2021 Dean's List at Stonehill College

By Press Release

 

Elijah Stringham, of East Bethany, NY, a member of the Class of 2025, has been named to the Fall 2021 Dean's List at Stonehill College.

To qualify for the Dean's List, students must have a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better and must have completed successfully all courses for which they were registered.

Authentically Local