WVML Press
Afterlife Electronics is a company that wants to do more with less - less solid waste buried in West Virginia landfills.
Based in rural Wirt County, the family-owned business seeks to recover materials from electronic products so their owners don't have to dispose of the worn out computers and other equipment in landfills.
Chris Drennen, 47, a native of Roane County, Afterlife Electronics said he and his family have guided the company to gather electronics equipment from businesses, schools and individuals. The company subscribes to a simple formula: "Our mission at Afterlife Electronics Recycling is to keep as much as possible out of our landfill; that's why we work to make sure everything is recycled from the electronics we get."
Drennen comes from a recycling background. His father's business in Roane County - D&D Enterprises - specializes in ferrous and nonferrous metal recycling.
Drennen, who works with his wife, Corinna, and sons Jarrett and Zack, said his company takes apart the equip-ment it receives and segregates it - plastics in one bin, metals, glass and other materials in separate containers.
Read more: New Law Requires W.Va. to Recycle Old Electronics
During a time when economic decline is a national trend, one West Virginia city is being honored for its growth and development.
Fairmont was one of five cities nationally recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, D.C., with a 2010 Great American Main Street Award.
Sponsored by Chesapeake Energy, the award is a tribute to the city for its creation of effective networks of leaders who facilitate success through high-profile projects -- specifically, through the development of their Main Street commercial districts.
Fairmont City Manager Jay Rogers said Fairmont is thriving, and the community couldn't be more grateful for the national recognition of its progress and success.
Read more: Fairmont Receives National Recognition for Progress
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