[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 7]
[House]
[Page 9775]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  0910
               CELEBRATING WEST VIRGINIA'S 150TH BIRTHDAY

  (Mr. McKINLEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. McKINLEY. Madam Speaker, today, the great State of West Virginia 
is celebrating its 150th year birthday.
  The unique history of the Mountain State is a source of pride for all 
West Virginians. On this day in 1863, West Virginia entered the Union 
to become the 35th State. It is the only State born during that 
divisive War Between the States, and the only State formed by 
Presidential decree.
  From these challenging years, our State has become a significant 
contributor to America's economy. West Virginia's natural resources--
coal, oil, natural gas, and timber--have played an integral role in the 
industrialization of our country. Now, in addition to providing energy 
to continue fueling our Nation's economy, West Virginia has grown into 
a leader in health care, research, education, biotech, aerospace, and 
many other diverse industries.
  The Mountain State's natural beauty also attracts people from all 
around the world to visit and enjoy its breathtaking scenery.
  Madam Speaker, today West Virginia takes special pride in our wild 
and wonderful State. We celebrate our past and look forward to the 
future.
  Happy birthday, West Virginia. Here's to the next 150 years.

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