[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 167 (Thursday, November 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1994]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING JAMES CHARLES ROBBINS OF LAKE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 3, 2011

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition 
of the tremendous public service of Mr. James Charles Robbins, who 
served honorably and admirably for 44 years as a fireman, 37 of which 
were as a fire chief of the Lucerne Volunteer Fire Department in 
Clearlake Oaks, California.
  In addition to his duties with the Fire Department, Chief Robbins 
worked with the Lucerne Business Association and held the title of the 
``Moose'' of Clearlake Oaks. Chief Robbins coached football and 
baseball for youth and high school teams, mentoring several generations 
of athletes and teaching them the values of team sports and leadership.
  His professional activities were always dedicated to the betterment 
of the fire department and the protection of his district. He was 
instrumental in maintaining the special fire tax, which keeps the doors 
open at Lucerne Volunteer Fire Department. Perhaps, Chief Robbins' 
greatest accomplishment of his career was the reorganization and 
consolidation of four fire districts into one, known now as the 
Northshore Fire Protection District. This district is one of the 
largest in California, covering more than 350 square miles.
  Chief Robbins was born in San Francisco and went to high school in 
Upper Lake, California. He pursued his degree at Santa Rosa Junior 
College, taking many classes related to fire science and management of 
personnel.
  Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I believe it is appropriate at this time that 
we recognize and honor James Charles Robbins for his career of fire 
protection and community leadership. We congratulate him on his 
retirement, and extend our best wishes for many years of health and 
happiness. His dedication to the safety and protection of Northern 
California is truly commendable, and his leadership will be missed.

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