(L to R) Dale Burdette, Michael Foster, Pamela Lightfoot, and Thalia Turner. Not pictured: Debbie Laudermilk

Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Hosts Clifton Forge Candidate Forum By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer   Clifton Forge, VA (Oct. 1, 2026)— This evening at the Historic Masonic Theatre, located at 510 Main Street in Clifton Forge, the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism hosted the Clifton Forge Candidate Forum. From 6:00 p.m. to about 7:15 p.m., four out of the five candidates vying for a seat on the Clifton Forge Town Council gathered on the theatre stage to address pressing town issues and present their visions to residents. The candidates in attendance were Dale Burdette, Vice Mayor of Clifton Forge who is currently seeking re-election; Michael Foster who was appointed to council in June following the resignation of Benjamin Nicely; Pamela Lightfoot, a resident of Clifton Forge who noted her previous work in government at the federal level; and Thalia Turner, a last-minute write-in candidate and entrepreneur in Clifton Forge. Incumbent councilwoman Debbie Laudermilk was unable to attend tonight's forum due to medical issues but remains a significant candidate in the upcoming election. This evening, the candidates shared their visions for Clifton Forge, outlining plans to address several major issues the town faces including infrastructure and how they intend to support local businesses. Candidates also articulated how they have added to Clifton Forge and how their leadership would guide the town toward a prosperous future. Moderating the forum was the former Vice Mayor of Covington, Mr. David Crosier, and giving the opening remarks was Josh Taylor, Executive Director for the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. The Alleghany Journal was on the scene to record the forum in its entirety and will be uploading that video soon to our social media pages. Josh Taylor, Executive Director of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism gave the opening remarks this evening shortly before the forum. (L to R) Moderator David Crosier, Dale Burdette, Michael Foster, Pamela Lightfoot, and Thalia Turner. Not pictured: Debbie Laudermilk

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