[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11479]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING BETTE PETERSON

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                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 7, 2007

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Bette Peterson of 
Fresno, CA for her tireless service to her community and selfless 
giving to philanthropic causes throughout California's San Joaquin 
Valley. In recognition of her devoted service, the City of Fresno 
proclaimed May 1st, 2007 as ``Bette Peterson Day.''
  Bette Peterson was born on October 30th, 1922 to Jean and Freda 
Johnson. Throughout her life, Ms. Peterson embarked on many adventures 
but not until 1975 did an adventurous life being to flourish rapidly 
beginning with her marriage to Dr. Robert Billings, and shortly 
thereafter, the creation of the Poppy Lane Publishing Company.
  After establishing her publishing company, she authored Beginning 
Reading at Home, a book designed to help young children develop and 
explore reading. In addition, Poppy Lane Publishing Company has 
published numerous books by local authors since 1976, opening up eyes 
to the wealth of literary talent in the San Joaquin Valley.
  Founded in 1988 by Bette and her husband Dr. Robert Billings, the 
Billings Independent and Responsible Foundation continues to assist 
many charitable causes. Most recently, Habitat for Humanity was 
presented with a one-hundred thousand dollar contribution to help many 
achieve the dream of homeownership.
  Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to honor Bette 
Peterson for her tireless service to her community. I invite my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing her tremendous example.

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