[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 117 (Friday, September 24, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1696-E1697]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO GIANNA ANGELO
 POULOS-DASKALAKI FOR HER OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE 2004 OLYMPIC GAMES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 23, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today to extend my 
sincere congratulations to Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, the woman who 
was responsible for the success of the 2004 Olympic Games held in 
Athens, Greece. As head of the Athens 2004 Organizing Committee, ``Mrs. 
A'' was instrumental in ensuring that Athens remained the site of 
Summer Games and that the massive undertaking of construction and 
organization was completed.
  Preparing for an event that is as elaborate as the Olympic Games is a 
monumental task--one which was almost lost to Athens. Credit for the 
success of the Games has gone to the leadership and determination of 
Mrs. A whose vision, tenacity, and pride in Greece enabled the Athens 
2004 Organizing Committee to overcome every challenge they faced.
  I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend this 
summer's games and found myself in awe of all that surrounded me. From 
the magic of the opening ceremonies and the lighting of the Olympic 
Torch to the incredible athletic venues, Athens was nothing short of 
spectacular. As the Games were brought back to their birthplace, the 
city was reborn--the Old World met the New and people from across the 
world celebrated in the spirit of competition. Whether spectators 
marveled at the breathtaking image of the lighted Parthenon in the 
night sky, or took in the

[[Page E1697]]

beauty of the Greek countryside as marathon runners raced along the 
original route from the city of Marathon to the Olympic Stadium, Mrs. A 
brought the world to Athens--reminding us of all that this ancient 
civilization has meant to world history and of all that this great 
country has yet to offer.
  In the days before the opening ceremony, Mrs. A wrote, ``Some will 
call what we have achieved a miracle. It is a miracle, but one that's 
man-made--a product of hard work, discipline and the pride of the Greek 
people.'' She could not have been more accurate. Today's Athens is a 
unique blend of an ancient civilization and modern marvel--with it's 
rich history celebrated and showcased for the world to enjoy. In 
ensuring the success of the 2004 Olympic Games, Mrs. A has also brought 
renewed vigor and beauty to one of the world's most fascinating cities.
  For her outstanding contributions to both the 2004 Olympic Games and 
to the city of Athens, I am proud to stand and congratulate Gianna 
Angelopoulos-Daskalaki. She has left an indelible mark on our 
consciousness and shared history.

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