[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 64 (Thursday, April 6, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E810]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 PINE PLAINS, NY, HOSE CO. AND RESCUE SQUAD CELEBRATE 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, April 6, 1995
  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I have always been partial to the charm and 
character of small towns and small town people. The town of Pine 
Plains, NY, is certainly no exception.
  The traits which make me most fond of such communities is the 
undeniable camaraderie which exists among neighbors. Looking out for 
one another and the needs of the community make places like Pine Plains 
great places to live. The concept of community service is exemplified 
by the devoted service of the Pine Plains Hose Co. and Rescue Squad. 
For 100 years now, this organization has provided critical services for 
the citizens on a volunteer basis. As a former volunteer fireman 
myself, I understand, and appreciate, the commitment required to 
perform such vital public duties.
  Mr. Speaker, it has become all to seldom that you see fellow citizens 
put themselves in harms way for the sake of another. While almost all 
things have changed over the years, thankfully for the residents of 
Pine Plains, the members of their fire department and rescue squad have 
selflessly performed their duty, without remiss, since the formation of 
this organization in 1895. From June 8, 1995 through June 10, 1995, the 
hose company will be hosting a celebration commemorating this 
milestone. Not only will this offer the residents of Pine Plains a 
chance to enjoy themselves at the planned festivities, including a 
parade, carnival and fireworks, but it will provide the perfect 
opportunity for them to extend their gratitude to this organization and 
its members.
  Mr. Speaker, I have always been one to judge people by how much they 
give back to their community. On that scale, the members of the Pine 
Plains Hose Co. and Rescue Squad are great Americans. I am truly proud 
of this organization because it typifies the spirit of voluntarism 
which has been such a central part of American life. We would all do 
well to emulate the service of the men and women who comprise the Pine 
Plains Fire and Rescue Squads. To that end, it is with a sense of 
pride, Mr. Speaker, that I ask all members to join me in paying tribute 
to the Pine Plains Hose Co. and Rescue Squad on the occasion of their 
100th anniversary.


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