[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 38 (Thursday, March 6, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E327]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING FIRE CHIEF EDMOND LEWIS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM REED

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 6, 2014

  Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Edmond Lewis, Chief 
of the Monterey Volunteer Fire Department in Beaver Dams, New York.
  Mr. Lewis has served as a member of the Monterey Volunteer Fire 
Department for an impressive 36 years. He assumed the position of Chief 
last year and was faced with the enormous task of overcoming a dire 
financial situation which nearly forced the fire department into 
bankruptcy. In addition to the financial challenges, when he began his 
tenure as chief, the department had fewer than twelve members and no 
junior recruits.
  Chief Lewis has never stopped fighting for the department or his 
community throughout the recovery process. His leadership has been 
vital in restoring the integrity, financial solvency, and strength of 
the Monterey Volunteer Fire Department. Through his guidance, the 
department has increased its ranks to 54 members, including 14 junior 
firefighters. The hard work and dedication of Chief Lewis has restored 
the fire department to a position of capably protecting public safety 
in the community.
  Edmond Lewis exemplifies selfless service and true leadership. His 
generosity and willingness to assist anyone in need has earned him the 
highest level of respect throughout Schuyler County. Mr. Lewis 
regularly extends a helping hand beyond his duties at the fire 
department by volunteering at a local food bank and preparing meals at 
the Office for the Aging.
  I commend Mr. Lewis for all the great work he has done, and will 
continue to do, at the Monterey Volunteer Fire Department and in our 
community. He is a selfless and generous individual who has made 
countless positive contributions to New York's 23rd Congressional 
District, and I am proud to recognize him today.

                          ____________________