[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 116 (Tuesday, September 26, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE ANIMAS FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 26, 2000

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this moment to honor a 
truly remarkable group of individuals who risk their lives to protect 
the health and safety of their community. The individuals I speak of 
make-up the Animas Fire Protection District, a volunteer program that 
has worked to ensure safety in Southern Colorado for nearly three 
decades. It is the dedication and hard work from the members of the 
District that I would like to congratulate as they celebrate their 30th 
Anniversary.
  Unlike many fire protection programs, this one is primarily 
volunteer. It began in 1970 under the name Durango Fire with $12,000 
and under two dozens volunteers. In the time since, it has grown to 
encompass a $1.6 million budget, using over 100 volunteers in 12 
different fire stations.
  During the last three decades, through long hours and many perilous 
situations, the Animas District has maintained an efficient and 
effective program that guarantees rapid response and much needed 
protection from the harm of a fire. Whether it is fighting structure 
fires within town or battling the blazes at nearby Mesa Verde National 
Park, the volunteers of Animas Protection District have ensured that 
there community is as safe as possible from one of Mother Nature's most 
dangerous elements.
  Volunteers and Staff of the Animas Fire Protection District, you have 
served your community, State and Nation bravely and admirably, and for 
that your neighbors are grateful.
  On behalf of the State of Colorado and the U.S. Congress, I thank you 
for you commitment to the safety and well being of the members the La 
Plata County and its surrounding communities. You make us all very 
proud!

                          ____________________