[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E411]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING BEVERLY CLEARY ON HER 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                         HON. SUZANNE BONAMICI

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2016

  Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, today, treasured children's author Beverly 
Cleary turns a remarkable 100 years old. Born in McMinnville, Oregon, 
Beverly Cleary later moved to Northeast Portland. Her neighborhood 
there, especially Klickitat Street, became the setting for her series 
featuring Henry Huggins, Ramona Quimby, and countless other characters 
who continue to hold a special place in the bookshelves and hearts of 
parents, children, and librarians around the world.
   Cleary's books spoke to generations of children from Oregon, across 
the country, and around the globe. Many of her stories were inspired by 
her own childhood in Northeast Portland, and almost everyone can 
identify with the imaginative Ramona or the studious Beezus--or a 
little bit of both. Although Cleary's stories evolved as our nation 
changed, her stories about a family working hard to make ends meet or 
facing the challenges of adolescence are timeless in their 
representation of childhood for so many young people.
   Cleary's love for her characters and respect for her young audience 
are evident in the national traditions she created. I am proud to honor 
her 100th birthday today, and look forward to watching her legacy 
continue to grow and flourish as she inspires a new generation of 
readers.

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