Editor's note: The combined editorial boards of the Clarksburg Exponent and Telegram newspapers devote Saturday's editorial to recognizing positive efforts from people throughout our readership area. We call this new feature, "Hats off." To nominate a person or group for recognition, contact John Miller (626-1473), Bob Stealey (626-1438) or James Logue (626-1031).

We salute:

-- Workers at the AFG glass plant, whose quick action saved the life of a fellow worker after his neck was sliced by a panel of glass. The workers kept pressure on the wound to the man's jugular vein, and worked to stabilize the victim until paramedics could arrive.

-- Randolph County's Joe Martin, tapped by Gov. Bob Wise to serve as secretary of military affairs and public safety. Martin has a strong background in public service and is deserving of the appointment.

-- The Fluharty family, for its success with the Salem IGA, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this week. The store is a Salem mainstay and is well-known for its community involvement.

-- Karin Wilt and Betty Jo Fridley, for making their dream of being independent business owners come true by operating the Candle Shoppe for the past six years.

-- Harrison County native Tige Pratt, the newest member of the Harrison County Sheriff's Department.

-- More than 130 athletes and volunteers who took part in the West Virginia Special Olympics Winter Games Wednesday through Friday at Canaan Valley.

-- Sharon DiMaria, who has graciously agreed to donate land she owns, which was once part of Harrison County's poor farm, to the county commission. The commission plans to make the land, which includes the poor farm's graveyard, a historical site.

-- American Association of Retired Persons and the Internal Revenue Service, for their efforts to help the elderly complete the necessary tax forms correctly. Free assistance is available by calling (888) 227-7669.

-- The Harrison County Chapter of the American Red Cross, which provide services to many people through their emergency training programs, as well as their disaster relief efforts.

-- Liberty's Nina Yokochi, Melissa Conner and Casey Ritz, Bridgeport's Lindsay Burnett, and Robert C. Byrd's Laura Benniger and Melissa Romano, who are all balancing academics, cheerleading and swimming successfully.