Nothstein recognized for 50 years of service with fire department
From left, firefighters Larry Diehl and Paul Mriss hold an ax plaque given from the Lehighton Fire Department to fellow firefighter Wayne Nothstein for his 50 years of service to the fire department. Visit www.tnonline.com for a video. TERRY AHNER/TIMES NEWS
He began his tenure as a volunteer firefighter a half-century ago.
Since then, Wayne Nothstein has held every position within the Lehighton Fire Department.
To this day, Nothstein remains active and continues to impart his wisdom on fellow volunteers.
For his exemplary dedication to his community, Nothstein was recognized for 50 years of service Tuesday at the fire department.
Borough fire Chief Pat Mriss thanked those in attendance for taking time out of their busy schedules to mark the special occasion.
“We’re celebrating a milestone of someone who’s been here for 50 years,” Mriss said. “We’re just trying to recognize you for your years of service.”
Mriss presented Nothstein with a proclamation from the fire department which recognized him as the longest standing active member with 50 years of public service to the borough.
Fellow firefighter Joe Flickinger lauded Nothstein for his dedication to his community.
“I want to thank you for all your service,” Flickinger said. “You’ve always pushed to train everybody here.”
Nothstein — who has served as a Carbon County Commissioner for the past 20 years — thanked everyone for their support.
“We’ve come a long way,” Nothstein said. “We all have to work together.”
State Rep. Doyle Heffley then presented Nothstein with a State House Citation, noting that he’s held every position possible within the fire department.
In doing so, Heffley quipped that Nothstein has been serving with the fire department for Heffley’s entire life.
Doug Snyder, representing the Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner, presented Nothstein with a citation from his office.
“Thank you very much for what you do,” Snyder said.
The fire department then presented Nothstein with an ax plaque.
Mriss said that unlike most fire departments, Lehighton has a solid number of volunteer firefighters.
“Fortunately in Lehighton, we can say we’re well-off,” Mriss said.
Mriss added that Nothstein is a perfect example for younger firefighters to aspire to emulate.
