Governor Bob Wise

Addresses the new leadership at Homer Laughlin

The Governor thanks Joe Wells, III

"Thanks to you, a lot of our children won't have to leave West Virginia."

Joe Wells III

"The transition is exciting but bittersweet." The Wells and Aaron families jointly operated the pottery for nearly 105 years.

Mr. Pete Aaron, former President

Mr. Aaron will stay on the Board of Directors in an advisory capacity, and his nephew, Carl Hess, will be the fifth generation of the family to retain interest in the company, also serving on the new board of directors.

Governor Wise & Joe III

Mr. Aaron & Governor Wise

Governor Wise addresses children of Kidz Galore

"You're what this is all about, our children and the opportunities they have not only to grow up in West Virginia but to live and work here."

Gov. Wise presents award to Wells

The award inscription: Distinguished West Virginian Award presented to Joe Wells, III for outstanding achievement and meritorious service.

Wells presents gift to Governor

The first official piece of Fiesta® in the newest color Shamrock is presented to the Governor. Shamrock will be introduced to retail stores in January of 2003.

Aaron, Gov. Wise, and Wells

Governor Wise proudly accepts the plate that is decorated with the state of West Virginia's seal.

Admiring Homer Laughlin's craftsmanship...

"I will proudly display this plate in the Governor's office as a show of the fine workmanship and design of the company."

Governor Wise meets new board members

Governor Wise and the new board of directors meet for a private luncheon prior to the awards presentation at the factory.

Another fine tabletop...

The luncheon is held in The Mahogany Room at The Mountaineer Race Track and Gaming Resort. The service plate featured is another fine example of HLC's unique custom capabilities. Pictured is a custom decoration on our proprietary Milford® shape from the Ameriwhite® Collection.