Recognizing Makiko Shirai

Floor Speech

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Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and service of Makiko Shirai, a Japanese foreign service worker who worked to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Japan.

On May 20, Makiko will be presented with Japan's Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays, for 35 years of supporting the U.S.- Japanese relationship.

Throughout her career, Makiko served more than 90,000 Japanese nationals in the Los Angeles area, and she played a large role in the Consulate's emergency response to the 1994 Northridge earthquake and again during the attacks of 9/11 on our country.

I thank my good friend and neighbor, Makiko. I thank her for being a role model and showing us all what the power of relationships between countries can do.

Congratulations to Makiko on a well-deserved honor. Recognizing Sophie Garcia

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Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sophie Garcia, a sophomore at Orange Lutheran High School in my district, who is making school history as the first female wrestler to win a CIF Southern Sectional individual wrestling championship.

Sophie's championship run included winning five matches in the 2-day tournament, showcasing her exceptional skill, determination, and competitive spirit.

Sophie trained very hard but studied even harder. She maintained a 4.2 GPA, earning recognition as a student-athlete scholar.

I am very proud of Sophie. I know she is going to do even better and will keep up the good work.

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