[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 34 (Tuesday, March 24, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




QUAKER SPRINGS FIRE DEPARTMENT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE

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                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 24, 1998

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, anyone who visits my office can't help but 
notice the display of fire helmets that dominates my reception area. 
The main reason for this is the fact that I learned firsthand the true 
value of Fire Companies. While serving as Queensbury Town Supervisor, 
and a New York State Legislator, I had the privilege of being an active 
member of the Queensbury Central Volunteer Fire Company. It was this 
experience that gave me a tremendous respect for those who provide fire 
protection in our rural areas.
  In a largely rural area like the 22nd District of New York, fire 
protection is often solely in the hands of volunteer companies. In New 
York State, as elsewhere, they save countless lives and billions of 
dollars worth of property. That is why the efforts of people like the 
fire fighters in the Quaker Springs Fire Department is so very 
critical.
  Mr. Speaker, I have always been partial to the charm and character of 
small towns and small town people. The town of Saratoga is certainly no 
exception. The traits which make me most fond of such communities are 
the undeniable camaraderie which exists among neighbors and their 
strong civic pride. Looking out for one another and the needs of the 
community make places like the Quaker Springs Fire District great 
places to live. This concept of community service and pride is 
exemplified by the devoted service of the members of their volunteer 
fire department. For 50 years now, this organization has provided 
critical services for its neighbors on a volunteer basis.
  Mr. Speaker, it is all too rare that you see fellow citizens put 
themselves in harm's way for the sake of another. For the members of 
the Quaker Springs Fire Department, however, this is a day to day 
occurrence. Our young people would do well to emulate the selfless 
service of these noble individuals. On April 19, 1998 the fire company 
will be holding a ceremony to commemorate this milestone. This will 
provide the ideal opportunity for the residents of the area to extend 
their gratitude to this organization and its members, both past and 
present.
  Mr. Speaker, I have always been one to judge people by how much they 
give back to their community. By that measure, the members of the 
Quaker Springs Fire Department are truly great Americans. I am 
extremely proud of this organization because it typifies the spirit of 
volunteerism which has been a central part of American life. To that 
end, it is with a sense of pride, Mr. Speaker, that I ask all members 
of the House to join me in paying tribute to the Quaker Springs Fire 
Department on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

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