[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 4, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Page S850]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                       TRIBUTE TO ALICE PRIESTER

 Mr. MANCHIN. Madam President, it is my distinct honor to 
recognize a beloved member of my hometown of Farmington, WV, as well as 
a very dear lifelong friend to me and my family: Alice Priester, who 
celebrated her 100th birthday on February 2, 2020.
  Particularly what comes to mind when I think of Alice is our bond 
with the coal miners of our great State. She and I have both lost loved 
ones to accidents in the coal mines. Every day, as I fight for these 
brave souls who perform this dangerous work, I am also thinking of the 
family members like Alice, who also depend on safety standards, fair 
wages, and precautions. She and her late husband Paul have one son, 
Fred, who is also involved in the coal industry. I carry this heritage 
with me no matter where I am but especially when I am in Washington.
  The women in my life who raised me are the most important people in 
the world to me. Even those not related by blood are considered as good 
as family in tight-knit communities like Farmington, and Alice is an 
inspiration to me and so many others. Having defeated cancer twice, 
Alice is one of the strongest, most inspirational people I have ever 
had the pleasure of calling a dear friend. When she is not cheering on 
the WVU Mountaineers, Alice is very involved with our church, helping 
with funeral dinners and driving her neighbors and friends to town and 
church functions. She also has had a history of involvement with the 
volunteer fire department and fundraising, and she treats her neighbors 
as family.
  From her days working at the local mine's company store to her 
retirement from the dining hall at Fairmont State University, Alice has 
showcased an unparalleled work ethic and zest for life that truly 
represents the very best of what it means to be a West Virginian.
  Alice while you weren't born here, you certainly are a West Virginian 
in your heart and soul. In West Virginia, if you are hungry, you will 
be fed. If you are lost, someone will not only give you directions but 
will offer to drive you to your destination. I am so deeply proud of 
the people of my home State and the values that make us stand out from 
the rest of the Nation. Gayle and I are so deeply appreciative of your 
very dear friendship, your generosity to the Farmington community, and 
your warm, welcoming hospitality.
  Alice, as your family and friends honor you, please know that you 
have provided so much happiness and wisdom to the lives of those around 
you throughout the years. It is my wish that the memory of your special 
100th birthday remains with you just as your guidance and influence 
will remain in all the lives you have touched. Again, it is with the 
greatest admiration that I send to you my best wishes.

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