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installation of officers

Bethany Volunteer Fire Department holds 2025 Installation of Officers Banquet

By Steve Ognibene
Bethany Fire Department held it's annual installation of officers banquet saturday evening.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Bethany Fire Department held it's annual installation of officers banquet saturday evening.  Photo by Steve Ognibene

On Saturday evening, Fire Chief Jeff Fluker of Bethany Fire Department led as the master of ceremonies at Bethany’s annual awards and installation of officer’s banquet. 

More than 80 people attended, including VIP guests from other area fire departments, including Alexander, Attica, Elba, Pavilion, Stafford, and Wyoming.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley and County Legislator Gregg Torrey were also among the guests.  

Steve Breckenridge and Emergency Coordinator Tim Yaeger gave opening remarks on the evening.

Jeff Fluker presented the installation of officers for 2025.  

Steve Breckenridge presented the President's Award to Bethany Fire Department Treasurer Debbie Donnelly.

Jeff Fluker and John Szymkowiak announced the Firefighter of the Year award to EMS Captain, Gail Smith. 

Jeff Fluker and John Szymkowiak presented the Chiefs award for the year to second assistant and training officer, Will Thurley.

Gregg Torrey presented the years of service awards to the members present.

The memorial service, led by Pastor Walter Wenhold, honored Robert Alwardt, (Divider NY) Don Frank, who passed away in 2024 and all deceased members of the department.

The department responded to 146 total calls in 2024.  

The top responders were:

  • Will Thurley, 82 calls
  • Brian Bitton, 75 calls
  • Gail Smith, 62 calls
  • Glenn Adams, 55 calls
  • Peggy Johnson, 42 calls
  • Jeff Wolak, 40 calls
  • Carl Hyde Jr., 37 calls
  • Jeff Fluker, 35 calls
  • John Szymkowiak, 35 calls
  • Vicki Wolak, 34 calls

If anyone is interested in joining or learning more, contact Chief Jeff Fluker at 585-300-8153 or come to the fire hall any Monday at 7 p.m.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

Treasurer Debbie Donnelly, received the presidents award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Treasurer Debbie Donnelly, received the presidents award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
EMS Captain, Gail Smith, received the firefighter of the year award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
EMS Captain, Gail Smith, received the firefighter of the year award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Second assistant and training officer, Will Thurley, received the chiefs award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Second assistant and training officer, Will Thurley, received the chiefs award.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Members of Bethany fire department who were in the top 10 of attendning calls during the year.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Members of Bethany fire department who were in the top 10 of attendning calls during the year.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
  A couple members in attendance recieved years of service awards.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
  A couple members in attendance recieved years of service awards.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
A moment of silence for two members in 2024 and past members of the Bethany fire department who have passed away.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
A moment of silence for two members in 2024 and past members of the Bethany fire department who have passed away.  Photo by Steve Ognibene

Father and son duo take home Firefighter of the Year award in Corfu

By Kara Richenberg
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On Saturday, the Corfu Fire Department gathered for its Annual Awards Dinner and Installation of Officers, celebrating the dedication and service of its members.

The evening began with a remembrance as outgoing Fire Chief Greg Lang led a candle lighting ceremony to honor department members who have passed. The ceremony recognized Sharon Franklemont, Al Platten, and Mildred Murczek.

In his Chief's Report, Lang shared that the department responded to 170 calls over the past year, reflecting the hard work and commitment of all members.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Firefighter of the Year award, which was given to Tyler Lang. His heroic actions earlier in the year were highlighted, particularly his quick response in saving a young girl who was pinned under a car following an accident. In a touching moment, Lang then presented his father, Greg, with the Firefighter of the Year award as well, recognizing his leadership as fire chief over the past five years.

The event also included recognition of Mercy EMS employees for their support and collaboration with the fire department. 

Chief Lang expressed his gratitude, saying, “We want to show our appreciation to Mercy EMS for everything they do to help our community.”

The evening concluded with a heartfelt speech from Brad Lang, who spoke about the strength of the department’s bond and the importance of community. 

Reflecting on the values of family and service, Brad said, "This community doesn’t work without the people you’re surrounded by right now." 

Other top awards included:

Service Awards 

  • Paula Trapani
  • Matt Lenhard

Most Training Hours

  • Wesley Cliff

Most Calls

  • Greg Lang - 90
  • Bruce Fauth - 80 - top responder
  • James Hale - 79
  • Matt Lenhard - 79
  • Jacob Stiles - 77

Years of Service

  • Brian McMartin - 40
  • Greg Lang - 35
  • Dean Eck - 30
  • Jen Eck - 25
  • Jim Hale - 10 
  • Kelly Hess - 10 
  • Brandon Florian  - 5

Photos by Kara Richenberg.

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Tyler Lang presents his dad Greg with the Firefighter of the Year award. 
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Service Awards given to 
Paula Trapani, Matt Lenhard, and Megan Stiles
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Most Training Hours
Greg Lang and Wesley Cliff
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Most Calls 
Greg Lang and Bruce Fauth
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Years of Service Award
Brian McMartin and Greg Lang
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Mercy EMS Employees and Chief Greg Lang
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Installation of Officers. 
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A group of friends from the fire department by one of the engines. 

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