[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 48 (Thursday, April 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING ED JOHNSTONE'S COMMITMENT AND SERVICE TO THE OLYMPIC 
                  PENINSULA REGION OF WASHINGTON STATE

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                           HON. DEREK KILMER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 11, 2013

  Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ed Johnstone, a community 
leader engaged on climate change issues in our region. Today, the 
President is recognizing his efforts by awarding Mr. Johnstone the 
Champions of Change award.
   Mr. Johnstone is a member of the Quinault Indian Nation and serves 
as their spokesperson on ocean policy and treaty fishing rights. He has 
done remarkable work explaining how climate change is negatively 
impacting the ecosystems and fisheries that are central to the 
traditions, culture, and spiritual beliefs of his tribe, as well as our 
regional economy.
   Mr. Johnstone has helped raise awareness of climate change by co-
leading the First Stewards: Coastal Peoples Address Climate Change 
Symposium at the National Museum of the American Indian.
   Climate change is an issue that involves not only preserving our 
environment. It's also about protecting our economic and national 
security interests. Climate change is already beginning to negatively 
impact our state's agriculture and shellfish industries, forests, and 
salmon habitat. Promoting growth and preserving these industries is 
essential in retaining and creating new jobs in our area.
   Mr. Speaker, I enjoy living in our region because I value the 
richness of our environment. We know our generation must be responsible 
stewards of our lands, waters, and of our entire planet for future 
generations. It's leaders like Mr. Johnstone that are taking that 
vision and turning it into a reality day in and day out.
   It takes great effort and service to earn this prestigious award. On 
behalf of our region, it is an honor to congratulate Mr. Johnstone on 
this accomplishment.

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