[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 89 (Tuesday, June 17, 2003)]
[House]
[Page H5451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING BOB SCHROEDER

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from New Hampshire (Mr. Bradley) is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. BRADLEY of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay 
tribute to a friend, Bob Schroeder, who has been named Town of 
Hooksett's Citizen of the Year. Bob was instrumental in the restoration 
and revitalization of a truly historic local, State, and national 
landmark.
  Robie's Country Store, in Hooksett, has a lengthy history of acting 
as the town's gathering spot, a place to argue politics, play checkers, 
buy groceries and homemade baked goods. Robie's was also a required 
stop for local politicians and Presidential candidates visiting the 
first-in-the-Nation primary State for over 30 years.
  The store closed in 1997, after the store's owners, Lloyd and Dorothy 
Robie, retired. After 5 years of dormancy, and a lack of funds and 
dedicated owners, Robie's Country Store reopened, continuing its 30-
year political tradition and its 110-year presence in the town.
  Bob Schroeder saw an imperative need to preserve this cultural and 
political landmark and formed the Robie's Country Store Historic 
Preservation Association to spearhead the renovation effort. The 
association has worked diligently to bring the store to life again; and 
on May 24, 2003, Robie's Country Store reopened to an eager and proud 
community.

                              {time}  1815

  Bob and the Preservation Association were careful to maintain Robie's 
historical accuracy by keeping the 97-year old building's flooring, 
ceiling and picture wall of political memorabilia. Always humble, Bob 
refuses to take credit for the grand reopening of the store, instead 
pointing the spotlight on the efforts of the entire community. Under 
Bob's leadership, people of all ages worked together to restore Robie's 
through fundraising and renovation efforts. The community's hard work 
will undoubtedly ensure that the rich heritage and traditions of the 
store will remain intact for future generations to enjoy.
  Bob's tireless commitment to preserving this landmark and energizing 
the whole community to get involved is a wonderful example of his 
perseverance and dedication to improving the community and State in 
which he lives. I can think of no better person than Bob Schroeder to 
receive the Hooksett Citizen of the Year Award, and I am honored to 
represent him and all other concerned and conscientious citizens from 
Hooksett and the First Congressional District of New Hampshire.

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