WHEATON, Md. (WDVM) – Chris Pyon is a second generation Korean-American and co-owner of Mobydick Sushi in Wheaton. Congressman Jamie Raskin on Tuesday named Pyon this week’s 8th District local hero. Pyon will also be Raskin’s virtual guest at Wednesday’s joint speech to Congress.

A statement from Congressman Raskin said Mobydick Sushi remained open throughout COVID in part thanks to congressional federal aid programs, such as the US bailout. Pyon received a loan from the Paycheck Protection Program last spring and a second one last month. The loans, the statement said, helped him pay the rent and pay his staff.

“I am very grateful that my business and I were able to receive two waves of PPP loans that have helped us stay afloat. I am honored to be Representative Raskin’s virtual guest for the joint speech and I really look forward to doing so, ”Pyon said in the statement.

Due to in-person attendance restrictions, Pyon will be monitoring his restaurant address on Wednesday.

The statement said Representative Raskin “invited Mr. Pyon as a virtual guest to honor the 8th District small business owners and heighten their stories of resilience during the pandemic.”