[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 135 (Friday, October 12, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF BETTY PIA

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 12, 2012

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of 
Betty Pia, who passed away on September 24, 2012 at the age of 95. 
Betty will always be remembered for her kind heart, intelligent mind, 
and go-getter attitude.
  Betty was born on May 29, 1917 in the beautiful state of Georgia. She 
moved to Southern California for a period of time, and in 1965, Betty 
and her husband Joe settled in Madera, California. Together they raised 
their daughter, Nancy.
  To say Betty led an exciting and fulfilling life is an 
understatement. She served as President Franklin D. Roosevelt's nurse, 
was close friends with President Jimmy Carter, served on Congressman 
George Radanovich's Education Committee, and owned and operated Magic 
Heart Guest Home for almost 40 years. It is evident that serving others 
was a key focus of Betty's life.
  Betty Pia paved the way and opened doors for thousands of women in 
America, and it was easy for her to do so because her morals and 
principles always led her in the right direction. She was a lifelong 
Democrat, but her party affiliation never interfered with her respect 
for people. Compromise and hard work were values that she taught by 
example to those that had the privilege of working with her.
  Betty's efforts in politics were complemented by her deep commitment 
to community organizations. A natural leader, she was involved in the 
Local Women's Improvement Club, Kiwanis Club, and the Madera Chamber of 
Commerce. As a resident of Madera for over 49 years, she was always a 
strong advocate for the Central Valley. Up until the day she passed, 
Betty never slowed down, and the citizens of Madera and the Central 
Valley will be forever thankful for her work ethic and her 
contributions to her community.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of 
Betty Pia, one of Madera's most distinguished public servants and a 
true champion for the people of the San Joaquin Valley. Her leadership 
and community service made her a role model and a source of pride for 
our community. Betty's caring nature and vibrant spirit will be sorely 
missed.