[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 76 (Friday, May 6, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING EFREM FESAHA FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF SERVICE AS A DEDICATED 
               COMMUNITY MEMBER AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 6, 2022

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Efrem 
Fesaha for his many years of service as a dedicated community member 
and small business owner. Having first founded Boon Boona Coffee in 
2012, Efrem has grown his business to now include multiple locations 
that employ more than 20 people, This year, Efrem was awarded the 2022 
Small Businessperson of the Year by both the SBA of Washington State 
and of the Pacific Northwest Region due to his outstanding work 
navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic while fostering 
inclusive and welcoming spaces at his shops. He is one of ten finalists 
for SBA's National Small Businessperson of the Year.
  Efrem founded Boon Boona Coffee after visiting his family in Eritrea 
and drawing inspiration from East African coffee. He has dedicated his 
business to bringing the rich culture of East African Coffee to the 
Seattle area. Not only has Efrem greatly contributed to the culture of 
Washington's 9th district, he has also set out to create a positive 
impact globally, sourcing fresh coffee beans from African producers and 
women-owned growers.
  The SBA's recognition of Efrem's achievements is well-deserved and 
speaks to his strong character, work ethic, and understanding of the 
importance of creating welcoming environments for community members to 
gather.
  Madam Speaker, it is my privilege and honor to recognize Efrem Fesaha 
for his outstanding career achievements and for his contributions to 
our community.

                          ____________________