[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 6, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E117]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO CLARENCE CENTER VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.

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                        HON. THOMAS M. REYNOLDS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 6, 2008

  Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today 
to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Clarence Center Volunteer 
Fire Company of Clarence, New York. For a century the members of the 
Clarence Hose Company have been volunteering to protect their 
neighbors.
  The Clarence Center Volunteer Fire Company became the first fire 
company in the town of Clarence in 1908. The company began as a stock 
company and was able to purchase a hand drawn hose cart and chemical 
fire extinguishers. Land for a fire hall was donated to the fire 
company by a local businessman, and fundraising for the construction 
began in July 1908 with the first firemen's picnic in Clarence. With 
the help of a local farmer, Wesley Williams, the company raised enough 
money to construct Williams Hall.
  The year 1922 marked a milestone for the Clarence Center Volunteer 
Fire Company. In February of this year the company was able to purchase 
its first fire truck. The acquisition of this truck was important to 
the protection that the fire company offered the people in Clarence. 
Additionally, the first annual Labor Day picnic was held in 1922. This 
is a time-honored event in the town of Clarence; not only is it a way 
for the fire company to raise funds for improvements to the equipment 
used to serve the people of Clarence, but it is an event that families 
throughout the town look forward to every year.
  Since its beginnings the Clarence Volunteer Fire Company has become 
an indispensable part of the town. The company remains committed to 
providing fire, rescue, and EMS services to the citizens that reside 
within the district boundaries. They've continued to meet the needs of 
the rapidly growing population of Clarence Center. As we reach the 
100th anniversary of this fire company the volunteers continue to 
dedicate themselves to serve and assist the members of their community.
  Thus Madam Speaker, in recognition of its 100th anniversary of 
tremendous service in the town of Clarence, I ask this Honorable Body 
join me in honoring the Clarence Center Volunteer Fire Company.

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