[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 73 (Monday, May 5, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E817]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING RYAN HOPKIN AND JAMES ETIER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BARBARA CUBIN

                               of wyoming

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 5, 2008

  Mrs. CUBIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ryan Hopkin 
and James Etier, Wyoming's State Honorees for the Prudential Spirit of 
Community Awards. These students were selected in a highly competitive, 
nationwide program, recognizing their outstanding acts of volunteerism.
  Ryan Hopkin, a senior at Powell High School, installed crosswalk 
flags for younger children at dangerous intersections around the town's 
elementary schools. This innovative idea placed canisters on either 
side of the street, with cans provided for picking up and depositing 
the flag after use. That way, each student has a neon orange flag to 
carry, alerting drivers of their presence, and increasing their safety 
on the trip to school.
  James Etier, an eighth-grader at Rock Springs East Junior High 
School, did a variety of volunteer activities at an after-school 
program. He helped out at the Humane Society shelter, worked at an 
elementary school with young children, and volunteered with the 
Salvation Army. James also assisted a group of senior citizens with 
yard work, in addition to visiting the local nursing home to meet 
residents.
  Volunteerism is a community activity that is important to instill in 
our youth and these two individuals embody the spirit of service. I 
applaud them for their hard work and dedication to helping others. I 
hope they serve as role-models for their fellow students, leading by 
example.
  In addition, I would like to recognize Wyoming's Distinguished 
Finalists, Elizabeth Whetstone of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Walter Wilson 
of Albin, Wyoming, for their commendable efforts.

                          ____________________