Bria Neff, age 12, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has been named a winner of the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes. Each year, the Barron Prize celebrates 25 uplifting, socially concerned young people from across the U.S. and Canada who have made a huge positive difference to people and the environment.

Bria founded “Faces of the Endangered” to protect endangered species through the sale of her artwork. She has sold over 250 paintings of endangered animals and given away more than $34, 000 to animal conservation (保护) groups. Bria has also published two educational coloring books; income helps support the zoo’s endangered species. She uses her website and Facebook page to present the challenges facing endangered animals, inspiring followers in 48 countries.

Bria began her work as an 8-year-old, when she won an art competition hosted by the International Fund for Animal Welfare. She was shocked to learn there are over 3,000 endangered species and decided to combine her enthusiasm for painting with her love of animals to show species in danger of extinction. She carefully researches each animal before painting it. “I hope I can inspire kids like me to believe they can do great things,” says Bria.

The Barron Prize was founded in 2001 by author T.A. Barron and was named after his mother, Gloria Barron. Each year’s 25 Barron Prize young heroes show the great diversity of America. They are female and male, and from various backgrounds. Many of them have focused on helping their communities and fellow beings; many others have focused on protecting the environment. “We need our heroes today more than ever. That is the purpose of the Gloria Barron Prize: to shine a spotlight (聚光灯) on these amazing young people so that their stories will inspire others,” says Barron.

【小题1】Which of the following best describes Bria Neff?

A．Inspiring and responsible.	B．Honest and reliable.
C．Brave and hard-working.	D．Smart and patient.

【小题2】What was the reason for Bria Neff ’s publishing two coloring books?

A．To show her gift for painting.	B．To help endangered animals.
C．To honor extinct species.	D．To make herself a hero.

【小题3】What can be learned about the Barron Prize?

A．It was intended for all Americans.

B．It was named after a famous writer.

C．It concentrates on the education for young kids.

D．It encourages the young to make a difference to the world.

【小题4】Where is this text most likely from?

A．A research paper.	B．A public speech.
C．A news report.	D．A history book.