By Matt Gomez

Nastia Liukin greeted several hundred fans with the same poise and confidence that helped her win 5 medals. She thanked everyone for coming out and admitted she "thought it was going to be a few girls from the gym and coaches".

When asked about the characters on the shirt she was wearing, Miss Liukin proudly stated " It says Beijing". She laughed off "will you marry me" comments from the crowd and was quick to say "no" when asked about a boyfriend (to the delight of many).

After the introductions and a few questions it was clear something was missing. Her father left for a few moments and returned with the "hardware". Miss Liukin pulled all 5 medals out of a small purple bag and glowed as she held them up for the crowd. She is not sure where she will keep the medals but will "keep them in her purse" for now.

When asked about the age of the Chinese performers Miss Liukin answered as a true champion by saying, "We don't know exactly what their ages are. They say they're the right age...and they're able to compete and that's fine. We can only control our performances and what we do out there on the floor."

Asked about future Olympics, "2012 isn't out of the question right now, but I'm taking it one day at a time," Liukin said.

Nastia and Carly Patterson

Parker Mayor Congratulates Nastia

Nastia rides home in limo and greeted by happy supporters

Liukin will leave soon for a gymnastics tour but not before the City of Parker hosts a parade in her honor on Saturday, August 30th at 9 a.m. The parade will begin at Victory Church on Parker Road followed by a reception at Southfork Ranch. Shuttle service to the parade will be avialable from Kimbrough Stadium.  

Corinth Presbyterian Church will welcome visitors who might like to view the historic building on Saturday, August 30, following the Welcome Home parade for Nastia Liukin. The building, located at 5609 East Parker Road, across Parker Road from the Parker Municipal Building and water tower, was built in 1923 and has unique period stained glass windows. The main window facing Parker Road is a portrait of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. An unusual aspect of the window is that Jesus has six toes on his right foot. Historic pictures of the church through the years are also on display. Congregation members will be available to welcome visitors following the parade which begins at 9:00 am. The Rev. Linda McCormick is pastor of Corinth Presbyterian Church, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

Photos are the property of the Murphy Messenger and not for duplication or use without permission from photographer Matt Gomez and the Murphy Messenger.