President Bush Congratulates Johnny Der-Yeghiayan

PRESS RELEASE
MASHDOTS COLLEGE
Contact Person: Sofi Boyle
411 E. Acacia Avenue
Glendale, CA 91205
Tel. (818) 548-9345
Fax: (818) 548-9342
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: mashdotscollege.org

PRESIDENT BUSH AND A SCORE OF OFFICIALS CONGRATULATE DOUBLE-GOLD
MEDALIST JOHNNY DER-YEGHIAYAN

President George W. Bush has issued a special commendation
congratulating Johnny Der-Yeghiayan on the occasion of winning two
gold medals in the 100 and 200-meter track and field competition at
the Pan-Armenian Games held in Yerevan last August. The President’s
statement reads: " Congratulations as you are honored for your
extraordinary accomplishments. Great achievements are built on hard
work, drive and determination. I appreciate the vision and leadership
you have demonstrated in earning this recognition. Your efforts
contribute to the strength and vitality of America and set a positive
example for your fellow citizens. Laura and I send our best wishes."

In his congratulatory commendation, California Governor Arnold
Achwarzenegger salutes Der-Yeghiayan by stating: "As a former
professional athlete, I can appreciate the dedication required to
emerge victorious from these competitive physical contests. Your
sportsmanship reflects well on the Golden State and sets a good
example for young Californians. Please accept my best wishes for
continued success."

In addition, a score of public officials, church leaders and community
organizations have extended their congratulations to Der-Yeghiayan,
including: the United States Congress (Hon. Adam Schiff), the
California State Senate (Hon. S. Joseph Simitiian), the California
Assembly (Hon. Paul Krekorian), the Los Angeles County Board of
Supervisors (Hon. Miichael D. Antonovich), Los Angeles County Sheriff
Lee Baca, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa of Los Angeles, Mayor Ara
Najarian of Glendale, Mayor Bill Bogaard of Pasadena and City of La
Verne Mayor Jon Blickenstaff who will make a special presentation to
Der-Yeghiayan at the City Council meeting on Monday, October 15th.

In his congratulatory statement, Rev. Dr. James H. Diehl, General
Superintendent of the world-wide churches of the Nazarene, writes, "It
feels our hearts with Christian pride that the person who won the gold
medals is an outstanding, spirit-filled, happy follower of Christ. I
rejoice that God has given you so many special gifts and graces, and I
am specially thankful that you have dedicated every one of them to the
glory of God and to the upbuilding of the Kingdom of the Lord."