NEW FLAGS, HANGING baskets and planters brighten Main Street in Marlinton. The mayor and town council have worked hard during the past year to improve many areas of the town and its utilities. The council’s Beautification Committee has a season- by-season plan to make Main Street a welcoming sight for residents, visitors and, especially, for those returning to their hometown. As we celebrate the 50th Annual Pioneer Days, let’s take time to be thankful  that Marlinton was spared in the recent flooding. And let us not fail to offer prayers for and encouragement to those who lost loved ones, those who continue to work to put their lives and their communities in order, and for the many, many volunteers who have responded to the effort.  J. Graham photo