Marlinton Mayor Joe Smith and Fire Chief Kenny Hall visited the Dec. 12 Council Meeting for the Town of Alderson to present a certificate of appreciation and a donation to the Alderson Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD). The recognition was in appreciation for the assistance provided by the AVFD during the recent major fire in downtown Marlinton. Other local fire departments are to be recognized as well. The certificate read, “This certificate is presented to the Alderson Volunteer Fire Department in recognition of and with deepest thanks and gratitude for your response to the devastating fire, which engulfed a large portion of the business area within the Town of Marlinton. Thanks for all the time and effort your department gave to our community during our time of need. The Town of Marlinton will be forever indebted to your members and department for the hard work and dedication that you provide, not only to your community, but also to your fellow firefighters in other communities like Marlinton.” The certificate and donation were presented to Alderson Council Member and Assistant Fire Chief Charles M. Lobban, Jr. The AVFD was responding to a fire at the time and could not have more members present. Mayor Smith also presented the “Key to the city of Marlinton” to Mayor Copenhaver with thanks for his support. Mayor Travis Copenhaver said, “We appreciate this. It is great for Marlinton to recognize the AVFD and other fire departments who responded. Alderson has an outstanding group of volunteers well trained in fighting fires. It is good to see their professionalism recognized.”
