Two BVFD Firefighters Earn County Awards
Two of Belle Valley's bravest received awards at the Erie County Public Safety Dinner on Friday April 9th. The dinner, which was held at St.Johns Social Center in Girard, has also been known in the past as Old Timers Night.
Awards are given in several categories. Firefighters from throughout the county nominate other firefighters for the awards. The nominees are judged by a panel from the Erie Co Firefighters Association.
This years Erie County Firefighter of the Year, the highest award given, was presented to Belle Valley's own Jeff Skonieczki. Jeff was given the award for the tireless work he does in trying to obtain grants for the fire department. Throughout recent years Jeff has secured grants ranging from $500,000 - $750,000.
Also receiving an award Friday was Belle Valley firefighter Doug Richards. Doug along with Wesleyville firefighter (and former BVFD member) Alan Lombardozzi both were recipients of the Presidents Award for the work they do with the Fire Safety House.
Full list of award recipients for the night included:
Firefighter of the Year - Jeff Skonieczki (BVFD)
EMS Person of the Year - Diane Falk (Lawrence Park)
George Hamburger Training Award - Scott Hyde (Albion)
Fire Prevention Program of the Year - Perry HiWay
Presidents Award - Doug Richards (BVFD) and Alan Lombardozzi (Wesleyville)
Law Enforcement Person of the Year - Les Fetterman (Erie PD)
Citizen of the Year - Dale Hannah
Stork Award - Fred Gillespie & the crew of Engine 13 (Erie)