[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 30 (Monday, February 25, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E225]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING TONI BEATTY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 25, 2008

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Madam Speaker, Rio Rancho, NM, is known as 
the City of Vision. It exists today because of the vision of countless 
citizens and public servants who are transforming a desert into a 
metropolis.
  Toni Beatty had a particular kind of vision. While others imagined 
homes and businesses and roads, she imagined a community of readers and 
thinkers and dreamers.
  When Toni moved to Rio Rancho in 1986, the town had just begun to 
grow into a city. She was hired to build a library system that would 
keep pace with the area's dramatic growth. As Rio Rancho has grown over 
the last two decades, Toni's libraries have grown with it. They have 
hosted art shows and horse fairs. They have exposed residents to 
ancient cultures and current events. And they have always reflected 
Toni's remarkable combination of intellectual curiosity and public 
spirit.
  Now, Toni is leaving Rio Rancho to return to Mexico City. She leaves 
behind a community more developed in every way than the one she moved 
to 22 years ago. She also leaves behind a library system that would be 
the envy of any city. During her time in Rio Rancho, she recruited and 
trained a professional staff that will remember her ability and 
kindness long after she has left. Rio Rancho will miss her, but we wish 
her well as she begins the next chapter in her impressive career.

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