[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 74 (Tuesday, June 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1152]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TRIBUTE TO LAWSON AND JEANNE HAMILTON AS GRADUATES OF DISTINCTION

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                       HON. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 7, 2005

  Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable 
West Virginia couple, Lawson and Jeanne Hamilton, who are being honored 
by The Education Alliance as Graduates of Distinction.
  ``Graduates of Distinction'' was established by The Education 
Alliance to recognize and honor graduates of West Virginia public 
schools who have attained national or international acclaim in their 
professions and for their loyalty to West Virginia.
  Lawson Hamilton graduated from Charleston High School and went on to 
become the owner of Ford Coal Company, a major producer which provided 
good jobs for West Virginians for decades.
  Jeanne Hamilton graduated from Elkview High School and has been a 
leader in many civic and community programs in addition to being named 
``Mrs. West Virginia Mother of the Year.''
  As testament to the value they have placed on their educations, 
Lawson and Jeanne have sponsored wonderful reunions for graduates of 
Charleston High School, keeping traditions and relationships strong and 
vibrant even as the student body now enjoys grandchildren and great-
grandchildren. They are true believers in education and the arts.
  Lawson and Jeanne Hamilton could have taken the skills they gained in 
public school and launched successful careers anywhere, but chose to 
put them to work putting West Virginians to work. Our State is 
sincerely appreciative. Their bountiful nature and giving spirits are 
unmatched.
  We are taught always to leave a place better than we have found it. 
Lawson and Jeanne have transformed our community in many ways 
throughout their lives, and all West Virginians and Americans should 
honor them today.

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