Around Charlestown: Charlestown thanks Assistant Fire Chief Don Hanna for 45 years of service

Assistant Chief Don Hanna was recently honored at a ceremony held at the Charlestown Volunteer Fire Department. The ceremony marked his retirement after 45 years of service to the fire department. Approximately 40 people were in attendance to thank Hanna for his dedication to protecting the residents of Charlestown.

Chief Randy Porter (left) presenting the plaque

In recognition of his 45 years of service to the CVFD, Chief Randy Porter presented Don with a plaque. Ohio State Rep. Gail Pavliga presented him with a commendation from the Ohio House of Representatives thanking him for his many years of dedicated service to the public. Asked to say a few words, Don thanked his fellow firefighters for their support throughout the years. He especially wanted to thank his father, Frank Hanna, for his support and for introducing him to firefighting at the age of 8 when Frank responded to a call to a grass fire and took Don along. Frank served on the CVFD for 32 years.

Several of Don’s fellow firefighters expressed their gratitude for all he taught them and even told a few stories about him. The evening ended with a cookout for everyone, prepared by the firefighters.


Jesse and Kasey Kellar

Charlestown’s Trunk-or-Treat was great fun! Even though it rained most of the day, the rain stopped for the two hours of the event. The winners of the car-decorating contest were Jesse and Kasey Kellar with their Hocus Pocus theme. Their prize was a lovely fall wreath.


Santa Claus is coming to Charlestown! Once again, Santa is teaming up with the fire department Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 5 p.m. If you would like to have your child/children surprised by Santa and Mrs. Claus, all you need to do is bring a wrapped gift of your choice to the fire department from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27 or Monday, Dec. 4. The gift should be labeled with the child’s name, age, phone number and address for delivery (address must be in Charlestown). Then, just relax and wait for the fire truck with flashing lights and sirens to arrive at your home. For questions, email [email protected].


Let’s light up Charlestown this holiday season! Get out your lights and ladders and enter the 4th Annual Charlestown Christmas Lights Contest. Just register your name, address and phone number at [email protected], or send a message via the Charlestown Activity Committee Facebook page. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: Most Traditional, Most Unique and Most Spectacular. Judging will take place Monday, Dec. 18.


Please contact me with any Charlestown news at [email protected] or text (330) 281-3723.

Ruth Ann Bartholomew
+ posts