Bethlen Almanac 2001 (Ligonier)

The Bethlen Home

one of the highest points in Westmoreland County, the new nursing home will provide residents with unrestricted views of the beautiful Ligonier Valley fringed by the majestic Laurel Mountains with the splendor of its sylvan vistas and, of course, the historical storybook town of Ligonier.

That action follows the June 1 purchase by a perceptive, pro-active Bethlen Home Board of Directors of the modem, 51-room Ligonier Gardens, a renovated hotel that has been operating as a personal care facility since it opened a year ago.

Located just a few hundred yards east of the historical log French Fort Ligonier that is one of the most prized tourist attractions in the Laurel Highlands, Ligonier Gardens will provide a pleasant, secure residency for those who wish to live independently. “I’m excited that we’re finally moving ahead with plans,” said Ms. Priscilla Hunyady, Chairperson of the Federation Board of Directors. “We are progressing which sometimes we haven’t done. A lot of times we just sit and talk about where we’re going to go. Now there’s actually some result of what we talked about. By buying Ligonier Gardens, we’re going in the direction we talked about for so long. And the new facility on the hill will give us an all-encompassing campus for our seniors in the future.” Following a traditional Flag Day ceremony and lunch with residents at the Bethlen Home, and its historical meeting, Bethlen Home leaders visited Ligonier Gardens. They chatted with more than 50 delighted residents who enjoyed special snacks created by the facility’s culinary staff. “This is God’s work,” said Mr. Dózsa. “The Federation is carrying out His ministry. We are indeed blessed to work with a Board of Directors that has such dedication and vision toward the future of the Bethlen Home. We are fortunate to have found this place and that we are able to make it a part of our mission. Now we offer a complete package ... retirement, personal care, and assisted living.”

“I feel very grateful to God, and I’m also very excited,” said Rev. Bertalan, who will oversee the Bethlen Home and Ligonier Gardens. “Seeing people working together, having an idea and a vision for the future. Once the new facility is open, then the old Bethlen Home will become a Hungarian cultural center. It will house a museum and archives as a further extension of our efforts to preserve our heritage ... we feel as the natural progression of our immigrant community continues, there will be a need for several centers around the country where people can return and be rejuvenated.”

Norman Vargo, Branch Manager Branch 235, Pittsburgh, PA

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