On March 3, Fire Chief Jeff Golightly hosted the Lewis and Clark Fire and Rescue annual awards banquet at the Netel Grange hall. About 70 firefighters, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members, fire department board members and their families attended.

Recognized for 10 years of service was firefighter Don Boehm. Board members Ted Warila and Gary Dick were each recognized for five years of service. Mike Searls received a plaque honoring his 40 years on the board of directors.

Fred Mestrich was honored on his retirement from the department, with 36 years of service. Mestrich, a former deputy chief, was the community leader responsible for the expansion of the fire district in 1976, to encompass most of the Lewis and Clark and Youngs River areas. He and his neighbors collected $50 from almost every household to finance the building of the fire station on Logan Road, constructed by volunteer labor.

Other awards were given to Flint Helligso for the most training attended last year, and Kevin Miller for most calls responded to. The Emergency Medical Responder of the Year award was presented to Ben Bogle, emergency medical technician (EMT) and firefighter; the Officer of the Year award was given to Capt. Dan Bunnage; and John Graxiola received the Firefighter of the Year award.