2007 1st Place Children's/Young Adult

                                    

     Betsy S. Lee has been rescuing greyhounds for many years, and has been an instructor-trainer for Therapy Dogs Inc. She has authored articles about greyhounds, and given lectures to professional dog breeders and handlers. As a therapeutic facilitator, she brought her greyhounds to various hospitals, mental facilities and retirement homes.

     Betsy is a former professional stand-up comedian who appeared in nightclubs, on television and radio. A true renaissance woman, Betsy is also a recognized photographer who received a tribute from the Florida House of Representatives for her photography. Her photos are on permanent display at the capital building in Tallahassee, Florida.

     The Florida Department of Education, The Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services had her personally record her book, OFF THE TRACK, in 2006, as a Talking Book for the sight impaired.

     She is a loving wife of over forty years, mother, grandmother, and daughter. Mae, her mom, soon to be ninety years old, has been living with them for thirty-two years. Betsy and Kal have one son, Marc, who is married to Dianne, and they have two children, Daniel and Rachel.

     Among her many prestigious professional affiliations, Betsy is most proud to be a member of the ALA American Library Association, NLAPW National League of American Pen Women and the Florida Writers Association and POW.