Recognizing Ian ``shige'' Ainoa

Floor Speech

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Ms. STRICKLAND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a standout member of our South Sound community, Mr. Ian ``Shige'' Ainoa. An Air Force veteran, a steward of our South Sound waters as a scientific diver, and a Little League coach, Shige brings Aloha, goodwill, and good spirits to everyone he encounters.

Shige currently works for the Environmental Protection Agency as an IT specialist and a scientific diver, working to support the preservation of our Sound's ecosystem through his skilled fieldwork. A leader in advancing equity and fighting for justice, Shige also served as the manager of the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Program for the EPA's Northwest region.

Outside of his day job, Shige goes above and beyond as an active board member of the University Place Veterans Plaza and volunteers his time to engrave and install new commemorative tiles. He has also coached Little League softball for the last three years.

I thank Shige for his commitment and service to our Nation, our waters, and our South Sound community.

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