[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 92 (Thursday, June 20, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S6625]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         WEST VIRGINIA BIRTHDAY

 Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, this is a proud moment for me 
and the citizens of the State as we celebrate the 133d birthday of our 
beautiful home.
  On June 20, 1863, West Virginia gained its independence from Virginia 
in the midst of the Civil War. Since that time when the Nation's 
brotherhood was severed, West Virginia became the 35th State to enter 
the Union and has remained a strong and vital part of this country.
  Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia is proud of its existence. 
Its beauty is evident as its rolling hills cover the land and its 
rivers and lakes surround the valleys. It is a place full of distinct 
culture and crafts. From the northern panhandle to the eastern 
panhandle extending down to the border of Kentucky, West Virginia 
offers some of the Nation's finest workers, industries, and businesses. 
We continue to welcome new corporate members to our West Virginia 
family, including most recently Toyota. Each year more visitors come 
from all over to go skiing, hiking, whitewater rafting, and do many 
other activities that are first rate in West Virginia. No matter what 
the season, West Virginia is a beautiful place to live and visit, loved 
throughout the world.
  I could continue forever about what this fine State has to offer and 
contribute to its people, its visitors, and this country. For the past 
133 years, West Virginians have been loyal to the Union and to the 
State because they are proud of who they are and what they have become. 
Let us all come together to celebrate this fine day and this wonderful 
State we call West Virginia.

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