[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 114 (Wednesday, September 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1551]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO WANDA SOTHEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
outstanding individual who has selflessly contributed her time and 
energy towards the betterment of her community and her nation. Wanda 
Sothen, of Durango, Colorado, has donated countless hours to aid the 
people of Durango and its surrounding communities following this 
wildfire season. She has been a true inspiration to her friends, 
family, and community and it is with pleasure that I applaud her 
efforts before this body of Congress and this nation.
  When wildfires ravaged Colorado and the devastation proved too 
widespread for the Red Cross and other aid organizations to care for 
the specific needs of the 1,700 households displaced by the 70,000 acre 
Missionary Ridge fire, Wanda stepped up to meet the challenge. 
Recognizing that her friends and neighbors needed more than just the 
basics of food and shelter, Wanda founded Helping Hands, a relief 
organization based out of Durango. Starting with only a telephone and a 
stack of index cards at a desk in the local mall, Wanda carefully put 
together every piece of relief she could find.
  Wanda learned quickly that many residents needed help, and many also 
had something to give, the problem was trying to bring everyone 
together. After the creation of Helping Hands neighbors began to donate 
items such as candles, clothing, food, school supplies, along with 
professional veterinarian services for local animals. Wanda's 
understanding of community needs extended beyond the ordinary, as 
animals from the size of goldfish to horses found help or homes through 
her organization. Her untiring spirit of charity continues to bless the 
lives of those affected by the fire as she continues to turn each 
donation into a gift of relief.
  Mr. Speaker, I stand today to pay tribute to Wanda Sothen, a true 
community activist, before this body of Congress and this nation. Her 
diligence in bringing her community together in the face of crisis, by 
creating and running Helping Hands, has made her an inspiration to us 
all. She truly stands as an example of American values and civic virtue 
and deserves our praise.

                          ____________________