[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 33 (Thursday, February 28, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E278]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CONGRATULATING FIRE CHIEF JOE FLORENTINO OF LITTLE ELM, TEXAS

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 28, 2008

  Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Little Elm, 
Texas Fire Chief Joe Florentino. Chief Florentino was recently 
appointed to the position as the first-ever State Coordinator of the 
Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System.
  Chief Florentino was unanimously selected to fill the post for his 
work-related qualifications and his leadership abilities by 
representatives from fourteen fire-related statewide agencies. He 
originally applied to be one of the 24 regional coordinators, and was 
surprised by his appointment to State Coordinator. Although he 
recognizes the challenges that go hand in hand with being the first 
individual to hold this position, Chief Florentino is optimistic about 
the road that lies ahead.
  The Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, as an annex to Texas' 
emergency management plan, sets guidelines for responding to fire-
related catastrophes that require more assistance than an area can 
provide. Chief Florentino will serve as the point of contact between 
those areas in need of support and the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid 
System. Advocates of the program recognize the fact that Texas is on 
the forefront of this type of intrastate aid system, and hope that its 
successful implementation will lead to a similar nationwide system in 
the future.
  I extend my sincerest congratulations to Chief Florentino on this 
appointment and commend his dedication and desire to help his community 
and state. It is an honor to represent such a service-oriented citizen 
in the 26th District of Texas, and I know his commitment will serve as 
an example to others.




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