[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 24, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO FIGURE SKATING ATHLETES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEVEN KUYKENDALL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 24, 1999

  Mr. KUYKENDALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to all of 
the outstanding figure skating athletes who participated in the 1999 
State Farm United States Figure Skating Championship, held in Salt Lake 
City, Utah on February 13, 1999. I particularly wish to recognize the 
athletic achievement of several of my young constituents.
  Ms. Michelle Kwan of Torrance, claimed her third National title at 
the U.S. State Farm Figure Skating Championship. Just 18 years of age, 
Ms. Kwan has already had an illustrious career, setting the bar high 
for all athletes following in her footsteps. Ms. Kwan's career 
accomplishments include winning the world championship twice, and 
earning a silver medal from the 1998 Olympics. Ms. Kwan will now lead 
the United States team that will compete in the World Championship in 
Helsinki, Finland, March 21-28. I admire Ms. Kwan's commitment and 
desire to compete as an amateur. I wish her luck in obtaining the one 
achievement that has been elusive thus far, winning the Olympic gold 
medal.
  Ms. Angela Nikodinov of San Pedro, claimed the bronze medal in the 
championship and will be a proud member of the United States World Team 
for the first time this year. Currently, Angela is 18 years of age and 
attends Monte Vista High School.
  Ms. Amber Corwin, at age 21, finished seventh in the overall senior 
ladies competition and is originally from Hermosa Beach. She is 
currently a student at California State University, Long Beach, where 
she is majoring in communications.
  Mr. Trifun Zivanovic of Los Angeles, finished second in the overall 
men's competition. He is a graduate of Beverly Hills High School in 
1994 and at age 24, currently enjoys teaching youngsters the art of 
figure skating. Mr. Zivanovic will be traveling to Halifax, Canada 
later this month for the Four Continents Championships and then to 
Helsinki, Finland for the World Championship in March.
  Mr. Johnnie Stiegler and Ms. Tiffany Stiegler of Manhattan Beach, 
finished fourth in the U.S. State Farm Figure Skating Championship 
pairs competition. This was their first senior competition. This 
brother and sister duo attends Rim High School. Tiffany and Johnnie, 15 
and 16 respectively, have a bright future in figure skating.
  It is with great honor that I recognize these athletes. Their 
commitment, dedication, determination, and discipline to excel in 
figure skating should be admired by all. I wish all of them well and 
look forward to cheering for them in all their future endeavors!

                          ____________________