George W. Bush: “Minority business owners represent the hopeful spirit of America.”

You've showed the great strength of America through your work—and that is your good heart.

To you and the honored dead, our country is forever grateful.

The actions taken by my Administration in response to the financial crisis have laid the groundwork for a return to economic growth and job creation.

Is it in our interest that 25 million people who would have died now live? I think it is. On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you for your hard work and God bless you.