:: JULY 2007 $2.95

New Greek and Roman Galleries at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art

AHEP ANS meet in Denver Chris Spirou testifies to Congress on Haghia Sophia

Artist Agni Zotis displays "Sacred Ways" in New York

Ultimate gourmet food at North Shore Market

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CONTENTS :: magazine Editor in Chief: Dimitri C. Michalakis [email protected] :: Publishing Committee Chairman: Demetrios Rhompotis [email protected] :: Marketing and Advertising Director Kyprianos Bazenikas [email protected] :: Photo/Fashion Director Alexandros Giannakis Photographers: Ode on a Grecian urn Christos Kavvadas ETA Press The New Greek and Roman Galleries at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art are :: more than just a walk back in time. They are a passage into another dimension. You can Legal Advisor imagine the sweat and blood that went into creating these colossal columns—which yet Esq. Jimmy Solomos :: are so beautiful—and the countless eons they stood under the baking Mediterranean sun Graphic Design through the march of time and wars and the rise and fall of empires. They stayed NEOGraphics Inc. impervious to it all, though crumbling a little every century. But they did survive to our :: age. NEO Magazine is published monthly by And they are more than a walk back in time because they remind us that despite the Neocorp Media Inc. tumult of life—despite the hardship and barbarity of the ancient world (the endless wars P.O.Box 560105 College Point, NY 11356 and butchery, the slavery that was the norm)—there was a longing immemorial for Phone: (718) 554-0308 beauty and peace and an ideal world that man, since the Stone Age, has felt compelled to e-Fax: (240) 384-8681 create in the face of all his hardships. [email protected] :: Walking through the galleries, with their light so delicate and ethereal, so cool and Athens Liaison classical, frankly, so unlike the real sun of the Mediterranean—more like a Van Gogh Konstantinos Rhompotis blare of color—one can imagine the ideal world these ancient people envisioned in their (01130) 210 51 42 446 mind when they toiled at their task. Why else would a tinsmith work at something so (01130) 6937 02 39 94 [email protected] delicate for hours and days and perhaps weeks and months on end? To make a little Now you can find NEO in Athens! money? Yes, but somebody wanted to buy the product of his art, some connoisseur of At international Press/Books art—enough of them to make his trade profitable. Panepistemiou 76, Athens, Greece The ancient world was full of art, some restrained and classical, as the ancient Greek in :: Visit our website its maturity, some robust and effulgent, as the Hellenistic and the later Roman. But it was www.neomagazine.com art, and it was a compulsion for these ancient people who are our kin, and for us who roam through these wonderful galleries and make contact with our ancestors and their dreams, so parallel to others. SUBSCRIPTION CARD We live a hectic life, they lived a life of sheer survival, and yet they found the time to 1 Year Subscription create such beauty and lavish all their care on it. Perhaps we should take time in our busy :: magazine 12 Issues for $29.95 lives to pay tribute to their devotion to beauty and its wonder that they tried to capture and which makes us all distinctly human. NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP TELEPHONE# E-MAIL Check (payable to NEOCORP MEDIA) Mail To: NEOCORP MEDIA, Dimitri C. Michalakis 4809 Avenue N, Suite 131, Brooklyn, NY 11234 VISA MASTER CARD AMEX

NAME CARD# EXPIRATION DATE: SIGNATURE 6 NEO magazine :: June 2007 NEWS & NOTES

as usual,” Comodromos said. “At this meeting aspects that can hold a youth organization we talked about Turkish issues, Maronite together. issues and we talked about the idea of what means to be Cypriot as opposed to just being At the end of the convention, annual elections Greek Cypriot. So we are constantly also took place and a new executive board was interrogating positions. At the same time, we elected with Debbie Kamilaris, president, do recognize that Cypriot culture is one that Spiro Xenophontos, 1st vice president, relies on Greek Orthodoxy, on Greek Myrianthe Marton, 2nd vice president, Stacey language, Hellenism.” Kamilaris, general secretary, Evangelia Douros, recording secretary, Haralambos Another CYCA initiative is the Discover There is also another very important Tsivikos, 1st treasurer, and Renos Savvides, Cyprus Program in partnership with the component to that search. “It’s also about 2nd treasurer. Elpida Tsivicos, Strati Vezos Youth Board of Cyprus, the University of developing Cypriot American culture, what is and Marios Hatzikyriakou are in charge of Justice for Cyprus, the preservation and From left, Demetrios Komodromos, Consul General Martha Mavromatis, Cyprus and the government’s financial it meant to be Cypriot American.” C o l l e g i a t e R e l a t i o n s a n d M a r i a expansion of the Greek language, history, Andy Komodromos, Ambassador Andreas Kakouris and Peter Papanicolaou. support. It aims to provide young overseas Athanasopoulos, Georgia Lilikas and Nick culture and education in the United States Cypriots with the opportunity to visit their According to the Cyprus Federation of Kinnis in the Media/PR Committee. along with the development of good relations homeland, undertake a series of cultural A m e r i c a ( KO A ) Pr e s i d e n t Pe t e r and solidarity amongst young Greek Cypriot activities and participate in an intensive Papanicolaou, CYCA is the big promise for “I am very honored to be president of the Americans were the main topics at the 1st language course. Students from the USA, the future. “We want them to continue Cypriot Youth Committee of America,” said National Cypriot Youth Convention, held United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, South KOA’s mission,” he said. “Since this year two Debbie Kamilaris. “Our purpose and mission recently at Astoria’s Stathakion Center. Africa and other parts of the world participate CYCA representatives are full members of for the upcoming year is to strengthen the each year. KOA’s Board.” He also proposed to facilitate American Greek – Cypriot youth community The promotion of common goals, and the a weekend retreat to be held in September at through educational, artistic, professional, coordination of their social, cultural, The Cypriot Youth Committee of America, “When you meet fellow young Cypriots there the Saint Basil’s Academy in order for the political and social programs. Another main educational, philanthropic, and professional “CYCA”, was established in August 2002 as a is an immediate understanding, an youth and their friends to spend some time in focus for the year is to acquire new members events also featured high during the Division of the Cyprus Federation of America. immediate bond that develops and I thing a relaxed environment and to decide on and hope that from our ranks will emerge the discussion at which students and young “Four years ago we gathered in this room and you cannot explain it unless you experience matters of common interest. next generation of leaders and members of professionals ranging from 18 to 30 years of formed this youth organization,” Maria it,” Dimitris Komodromos, CYCA’s our community’s organizations and age took part, forming “a very promising Athanasopoulos, the departing president, chairman explained. “It’s also a very basic way Savvas Tsivikos, another veteran activist, institutions.” nucleus,” in the words of Andreas Kakouris, said in an interview with NEO. “However, we of establishing a connection to Cyprus. It’s suggested that CYCA should not be Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the were not aware of how much power we would about really understanding who you are.” overwhelmed with the Cyprus problem, as United States, who along with Consul have someway down the road. It’s a great was the case with his own generation, but General in New York Martha Mavrommatis, think! My personal experience is definitely Regarding the convention, “it’s not business rather seek and develop in parallel other President of the Cyprus Federation of priceless, unforgettable and for sure very America Peter Papanicolaou, President of meaningful.” PSEKA Philip Christopher and activists Andy Comodromos and Savvas Tsivikos lent their “There is vast potential and I wanted to be support by participating in the convention. here at this first convention to show in practical terms my support,” Ambassador Kakouris added. “I gain my strength from what the diaspora is doing. This is a two way street, I can help them and they can help me.”

In fact, Mr. Kakouris has much in common with the members of the youth. “I feel very much a kinship with them. I was born and raised in the UK so I went through that process of being of Cypriot origin born abroad and having to marry where you are born and where your roots are…Both my parents come from the occupied area and I know how difficult it is to get people to be interested not just on a sporadic basis, but on a permanent basis, to become involved in a deep level.”

CYCA is heavily involved in fighting for justice for Cyprus and has held many events to raise awareness to the Cyprus problem, such as the “Beyond the Green Line Exhibit,” a collection of photographs of the occupied areas in Cyprus taken by young overseas Cypriots. “In America they don’t even know where Cyprus is, they don’t even know it’s a country, let alone that there are people that illegally occupy an area and there was ethnic cleansing that went on, there were people that were killed and displaced,” noted Maria Athanasopoulos.

8 NEO magazine :: July 2007 PEOPLE IN THESECTION NEWS

olios Ministry of Macedonia-Thrace Photos: Maria T

War as a game

War is certainly not a game, although it seems Stapleton, Institute for Simulation and the US Military has come up with plans to Training, UCF (US Army partner,) Jim make it look like one, using videogames, Korris, Creative Director, Institute for Hollywood talent and Star Trek to prepare Creative Technologies, University of the ground for recruitment first and then Southern California (US Army partner,) training of tomorrow’s soldiers. This Captain Oseguera, US Army Commander for unsettling new vision is aptly demonstrated recruitment in NYC etc. Gamers, videogame in “World War Virtual,” a documentary film industry reps, soldiers, military officials are written and produced by Greek journalist also part of this impressive roster, Mihalis Gripiotis who managed to tell his highlighting the new techniques. story by uttering not even a word! Instead, he The Kinesis Foundation is a New York-based

olios had key people from the industry explain their plans and he used excerpts from already organization dedicated to the promotion, available material to make his thesis crystal- exhibition, and distribution of Greek films clear. and media works in New York and throughout the United States and Canada.

Photos: Maria T “This documentary exposes a growing Each year’s focal event will be the annual American military-entertainment complex,” Festival of Greek Cinema to be held every he said during a press conference after the spring in New York City. The festival will film’s premiere at the prestigious National then travel throughout the US and Canada. Arts Club in New York, presented by the Kinesis Foundation, Inc. “It reveals the close The Foundation is proud to announce the relationships the US Military have developed launching of its inaugural season this fall with with the commercial videogame industry and the North American Premiere screening of Hollywood, in order to create “compelling” Yiannis Economidis’ award-winning and From left, Nick Efteriades, tools (i.e. videogames), for recruiting and Cannes-selected film “Soul Kicking.” The Marisa Stefatos, Mihalis Gripiotis training purposes.” screening will be followed by a gala reception and discussion with the producers and One of the new visions of the US Army for directors.

olios training and future war-fighting is to re- create in reality the science fiction virtual Kinesis will also serve as a facilitator for - and space “Holodeck” from Star Trek, where a bridge between - Greek films and North "Taking into consideration the importance of preserving our cultural legacy, we anything is possible. Reality and virtuality, American distributors, cinematheques, and are undertaking the initiative to create an "historical-archaeological-religious war and entertainment, become dangerously other domestic festivals. In addition it plans

Photos: Maria T blurred, causing confusion and paranoia, to bring together film/video artists of path" (monopati is the word in Greek) that will run across northern Greece, threatening our very sanity and any hopes of Hellenic descent from around the world in the starting from Thrace and going all the way to western Macedonia." future peacemaking. spirit of collaboration and in the creation of a comprehensive network of resources. Besides Among the people who appear in this “World War Virtual,” most recently the George Kalantzis, documentary are James Der Derian, Director Kinesis staff has already spearheaded the Minister of Macedonia-Thrace of The Watson Institute for International programming for the Mediterranean Cinema Studies, Professor of International Studies, evening at the 2007 D.C. Independent Film Brown University, Author of Virtuous War, Festival. Marisa stefatou, Consul General of Greece Ed Halter, contributing film critic for the The Ministry of Macedonia-Thrace Ekaterini Boura, Sharyn Grossman, Village Voice, Author of War and More information on Kinesis can be found at National Arts Club Director, Mihalis Gripiotis Videogames, Michael Macedonia (not a [email protected] or by contacting Marisa supports the preservation and promotion of our cultural legacy and Polixeni Mastroperou, Greek-American), Director of the Office for Stefatos at 917.922.2545 or Nick Efteriades in northern Greece. Greek Press Office Director in New York Simulation and Training US Army, Chris at 917.519.2890.

10 NEO magazine :: July 2007 This past April a spectacular “museum- redesigned mezzanine level, where galleries within-the-museum” for the display of the for Etruscan art and the Greek and Roman extraordinary collection of Hellenistic, study collection overlook the court from two Etruscan, South Italian, and Roman sides. art—much of it unseen in New York for The focal point of the new galleries is the generations—opened at The Metropolitan spectacular Leon Levy and Shelby White Museum of art in its New Greek and Roman Court for Hellenistic and Roman art, which Galleries. occupies an area created by the renowned architectural firm of McKim, Mead and After more than five years of construction, the White between 1912 and 1926. The atrium, long-awaited opening concludes a 15-year which evoked the ambulatory garden of a project for the complete redesign and large private Roman villa, has been reinstallation of the Museum’s superb transformed through the addition of another collection of classical art. Returning to public story and dazzling colored marble floors. view in the new space are thousands of long- stored works from the Metropolitan’s On view in the center of the court are several collection, which is considered one of the works that show Roman admiration for finest in the world. The centerpiece of the Greek culture, including the statue of New Greek and Roman Galleries is the Dionysus, god of wine and divine intoxication majestic Leon Levy and Shelby White (Roman, Augustan or Julio-Claudian, 27 Court—a monumental, peristyle court for B.C.-A.D. 68, which is an adaptation of a the display of Hellenistic and Roman art, with fourth-century Greek statue). Two larger a soaring two-story atrium. than life statues of Hercules face one another from either side of the court. And there is a “The New Greek and Roman Galleries are a purple stone called porphyry (from the Greek milestone in an unprecedented building word for purple) which was especially prized campaign—more than a dozen years in the for monuments and building projects in making—to construct anew within the Imperial Rome. framework of our historic buildings, to make use of new methodologies while honoring the old, and to encourage our visitors to look at ancient art in a new way,” said Philippe de Montebello, director of the Metropolitan Museum.”

He said some of the 5,300 works previously in Additionally, there are thematic displays of storage, many of them collected soon after the Hellenistic art and Hellenistic funerary art, museum was founded in 1870, are now including the Marble Garland Sarcophagus, installed on two levels of the new galleries, from around A.D. 200 that was found at located in the Lamont Wing at the southern Tarsus in southern Turkey. And the end of the building. The art displayed was Badminton Sarcophagus from around A.D. created between 900 B.C. and the early 260 carved in high relief from a single block of fourth century A.D., tracing the parallel marble, which shows the god Dionysus seated stories of the evolution of Greek art in the on a panther and surrounded by a lusty Hellenistic period and the arts of southern entourage of satyrs and maenads (female Italy and Etruria, culminating in the period of devotees of Dionysus). the Roman Empire. Visible through a window in the Sardis On the first floor, contiguous to the central gallery, a pair of spectacular gold serpentine Leon Levy and Shelby White Court on three armbands (Greek, Hellenistic, 200 B.C.) sides, are galleries for Hellenistic and Roman draws visitors into the Hellenistic Treasury, an art. The installation continues on the wholly intimate showplace for outstanding examples

12 NEO magazine :: July 2007 NEO magazine :: July 2007 13 of luxury goods, primarily made of precious A new guide to the collection, Art of the metals, gemstones or glass. Classical World in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, has been published and is available at Another stunning work is a small statue of a the museum and through Yale University veiled and masked dancer (Greek, third- Press. Also, a variety of education programs second century B.C.) whose effect depends will be offered in conjunction with the exclusively on the pose of the dancer and the installation of the New Greek and Roman treatment of the drapery. The woman’s face is Galleries, including lectures, gallery talks, an covered with a sheer veil, which can be international symposium, a Sunday at the discerned at its edge below her hairline and at Met program of lectures and films, a teacher the cutouts for the eyes. workshop, and an all-day conference for teachers. Also on view in the Hellenistic Treasury are coins and gems, as well as refined small-scale objects having a private or religious use.

The mezzanine level gallery of Etruscan art, overlooking the court, displays the mastery of the Etruscans as metalsmiths and their connection to Greek culture, as well.

The centerpiece of the Leon Levy and Shelby White Gallery for Etruscan art is one of the great works in the Museum’s collection, the newly restored, world famous Etruscan chariot (second quarter of the sixth century B.C.). One of the very few complete chariots to survive from antiquity, it is made of bronze and inlaid with precious elephant and hippopotamus ivory and depicts scenes from the life of the Greek hero Achilles.

The Homeric subject matter of the bronze chariot brings up the question of how the story of Achilles became known in Etruria, and bards may have recited the tale, although written documents may have existed, as well.

The museum already has galleries (opened in 1996) for prehistoric and early Greek arts, followed in 1999 by the opening of galleries for Archaic and Classical Greek works, and a suite of Cypriot galleries in 2000.

14 NEO magazine :: July 2007 FOOD As Ntalia on "Sto Para Pente" would say, The display of gourmet food, as introduced by North Shore Market four years ago in Long Island’s Port Washington extended area (770 Port Washington Blvd.), got more than doubled recently by the brand new, lavish North Shore Market in neighboring Glen Cove, doubling the resounding success of this I'M BUYING IT! bold experiment in gourmet purveying by owner Nick Katopodis.

Acting upon his more than two decades Manhattan experience, Katopodis had introduced into the area the concept of high quality, gourmet products from all over the world, and with fresh produce from Long Island’s vast fields. All that, with a home style cuisine that turned the regular supermarket chore into a completely different experience. For most of the patrons, North Shore Market became not just a store, but an institution Experience the art of gourmet food By Demetrios Rhompotis Mr. Lovely with part of his crew that reflected the area’s development and the new needs that came with it. also a customer and the same kind of quality that I reserve for my family, I want for the rest Cheese from such exotic places as Andorra, or of the people as well.” Greece’s legendary Parnassus mountain; For the countless of Greek-Americans living brick oven Brooklyn bread from a family in the area, the new North Shore Market is a tradition that goes back generations; French real …blessing! All the Greek and Cypriot pate – some of it even Kosher; cold-pressed products found in Astoria’s – about 35 miles olive oil from a variety of countries; a hard-to- away – neighborhood stores are here and in beat selection of fresh fish and meats; salami bigger varieties. Besides the staple extra that makes the offerings of a full-fledged virgin olive oil, cheese and spices, a whole line Italian or Jewish deli look poor in comparison; of home made pastries, party dishes, Spanish Serrano ham on a par with the tastier appetizers, spreads and other delicacies are of prosciutto; aged underground Greek there for them, minutes away from their gruyere; a coffee selection that gets you on homes. high caffeine levels just by looking at it; halvah from Greece, Israel and Turkey; farm- Besides Nick Katopodis, Louis Alaimo and fresh fruits and vegetables that taste and Thomas Tsamis, two of the industry’s most smell as fresh as they look—these are just a seasoned people, are in charge of the new few of North Shore Market’s staples. store. Glen Cove City Mayor Ralph V. Suozzi inaugurated the new North Shore Market Free standard “The rest are up to every gourmet adventurer with Rev. Emmanuel Gratsias, Dean of the to discover,” says Katopodis who came to the town’s Greek Orthodox Parish, officiating at installation Rev. Emmanuel Gratsias, Dean of the Glen US from Greece at the age of 18 to study the millennium old Haghiasmos Ceremony. Cove Greek Orthodox Parish, officiated in the Economics. Soon, the supermarket industry Sea Cliff Mayor Eileen A. Krieb was also of a 4-room traditional Haghiasmos Ceremony absorbed him completely, becoming his there, along with Glen Cove Chamber of Watch the most POPULAR Greek channel second nature. “When I say Commerce President Gabor Karsai, Glen DIRECTV - now ONLY on DIRECTV! gourmet, I am not talking Cove Chamber of Commerce Executive about some fancy staff, Director Phyllis Gorham, Former Owner of system! meant for food specialists, MEGA PREFFERED CHOICETM the Port Washington Locations & Advisor to Includes a satellite dish and the lease of up to 4 99 per month $ 98 per month but the kind of food every standard receivers. New customers only. On COSMOS $ + Over 120 English-language = + tax North Shore Farms Lou Campanelli, approved credit. Programming commitment 14 + tax channels 44 home, every family must required. Lease fee $4.99/mo. for 2nd and each Developers & Builders of North Shore Farms: additional receiver required. WorldDirect customers must first subscribe to DIRECTV BASIC ($9.99/mo.) or any DIRECTV base programming package ($29.99/mo. or above). have the opportunity to Joseph Graziose, Jr. & Joseph Graziose, Sr, Lease fee $4.99/mo. for second and each additional receiver. enjoy. For those of us who Building Owner L.J. Martone, Andy Zoitas, grew up in the old country, Manny Tsiskakis, Nick Sahlaras representing where everything was fresh the industry, friends and well-wishers. and naturally-produced, 1-800-378-7229 greekdirectv.com good, healthy products The new North Shore Market is located at Glen Cove City Mayor Ralph V. Suozzi is about to inaugurate should not be a luxury but a 190 Glen Cove Ave., in Glen Cove, with North Shore Farms. He is joined by owner Nick Katopodis right,” he pointed out. “I telephone number (516) 801-6031. (third from right) his wife Marilena, their children HARDWARE LEASE: Purchase of 12 consecutive months (24 consecutive months for advanced receivers) of any DIRECTV base programming package ($29.99/mo. or above), qualifying international services bundle required. In certain markets, programming/pricing am not only the owner, I am may vary. DVR service commitment ($5.99/mo.) required for DVR and HD DVR lease, HD Access fee ($9.99/mo.) required for HD and HD DVR lease. FAILURE TO ACTIVATE ALL THE DIRECTV SYSTEM EQUIPMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE EQUIPMENT LEASE Angelo and Stelio, Louis Alaimo and many well wishers. ADDENDUM MAY RESULT IN A CHARGE OF $150 PER RECEIVER NOT ACTIVATED. IF YOU FAIL TO MAINTAIN YOUR PROGRAMMING COMMITMENT, DIRECTV MAY CHARGE A PRORATED FEE OF UP TO $300. RECEIVERS ARE AT ALL TIMES PROPERTY OF DIRECTV AND MUST BE RETURNED UPON CANCELLATION OF SERVICE, OR ADDITIONAL FEES APPLY. VISIT DIRECTV.COM OR CALL 1-800-DIRECTV FOR DETAILS. Programming, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change at any time. Pricing residential. Taxes not included. Receipt of DIRECTV programming subject to DIRECTV Customer Agreement; copy provided at directv.com/legal and in first bill. ©2007 DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV, the Cyclone Design logo GOODTV. BETTERTV. DIRECTV and all WorldDirect service names 16 NEO magazine :: July 2007 are trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. and are used with permission. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of the respective owners. The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the AHEPA Executive Director Basil Mossaides on AHEPA past and present leading association for the nation’s 1.3 million Americans of Hellenic heritage and On the current issues We also want to promote our On AHEPA staying relevant: Philhellenes, embarks on a week excursion to AHEPA is pursuing: scholarship programs. This Denver, Colorado, (Adam’s Mark, 1550 year we gave over $100,000 That’s a difficult question only because it’s Court Place,) July 10 - 15, 2007 for the 85th O u r i s s u e s a f t e r t h e on a national level, but challenging. But it’s a challenge that every Annual AHEPA Family Supreme convention in Denver will be several million dollars on a member-based organization faces, not just the Convention. Attendees will include members to finalize the visa waiver issue local level. Every chapter and AHEPA, but every group. How do these social and their families from the United States, for Greece. That’s a big issue every district in AHEPA member organizations stay alive? And I say to Canada, Greece, Cyprus and Australia. for all Greek Americans. We gives money out every year. you this, that the AHEPA has experienced the More than 2,500 Hellenes are expected to want to see Greece included in The number fluctuates, but least amount, percentage wise, the least amount participate and conduct the organization’s the original EU countries to get the visa waiver, we estimate it between $1.5 and $2 million a of drop in membership because of our oath and business agenda, honor those who have so we’ve been pushing very hard. We’re year. obligation to the organization. Bringing new achieved excellence in their respective confident that something will be passed. In our We have about 400 active AHEPA chapters and members in is a challenge because new members professional careers and conventioneers share meetings at the State Department, and with about 250 active AHEPA Daughter’s chapters today 20-30 year olds, people that are in their common ethnic heritage and cultural Homeland Security, and with the Executive and a few dozen Sons and Maids chapters. We newlyweds, people that are starting families, are background by attending educational, Branch, the Supreme President has laid out a have about 750 AHEPA family chapters. The not in the same position that our fathers and cultural and social events. very good argument that basically says, look, all AHEPA family has a membership of about grandfathers were 40-50 years ago when the the criteria have been met. Greece having the 35,000. AHEPA was used as a social outlet, a gathering most successful and security-safe Olympics, spot—the men going to play tavli or whatever. Delegates at the first AHEPA Annual Convention held in Atlanta, 1923 Greece has addressed the problems and In the past we’ve several programs and projects, They don’t need that today. That’s not its addressed the issues, and Greece should be some of which have become permanent, like the purpose anymore. For someone to consciously allowed to be included automatically. And I AHEPA Cooley’s Anemia Foundation, which is join an organization they’ll never have time for, think the American government was receptive. a permanent foundation in the AHEPA that because they’re running around to soccer All we have to do is coordinate all the offices to raises money and awareness for Cooley’s practice, or baseball practice, or dancing, or understand that everything has been met. I Anemia, and we’ve done a lot of fundraising and whatever it is that they do if their children are think they have heard us. donated hundreds of thousands of dollars in small—when they join an organization like this research. Our monies and our efforts have under those circumstances it’s a conscious Another issue is the Brumidi recognition on extended the life expectancy of individuals with decision they make to participate. So we get Capitol Hill. You may or may not know that this disease from 30 to about 75 years now. members, they don’t stay active in attending the Konstantino Brumidi was the artist that painted meetings, or every single meeting, but they try Prime Minister of Greece Kostas Karamanlis (left) the Capitol dome and several galleries in the Other issues include the AHEPA Bone Marrow to stay associated with an organization that with AHEPA's Supreme President Gus James. Capitol Building. His original name was Registry. We have a unique AHEPA registry uniquely identifies them as Hellenes. I think the Broumides, his father was Greek, his mother which identifies individuals in the Greek AHEPA does that. And the church does that, Event Highlights: was Italian, but they left Greece and ended up in American community to become donors for too. It’s an identity thing. You learn that at Italy and Mr. Brumidi came to the United States people in need of bone marrow, which is of church, and the AHEPA does that to the same July 11: Ÿ in the 1860s. And he’s commonly referred to as course a cure for cancer. That’s something that is degree, but on a different level. AHEPA has a lot Continuing Medical Education, Prostate Cancer: Screening, the Michaelangelo of Washington DC. If you’ve uniquely AHEPA. We have 28,000 people that to offer, a lot of history, a lot of heritage, a lot of Diagnosis and Treatment, John Triantafyllos, MD at 08:30. Ÿ ever been to the Capitol Building you’ll see the have signed up in the registry—which is a good knowledge and it’s a wonderful thing to be part Athletic Department Awards Luncheon, honoring inductees into frescos. They’re absolutely beautiful. And we’ve of a brotherhood like this because it’s done a lot Hellenic Athletic Hall of Fame at 12:00. grouping because the amount of donors needed Ÿ been working very hard to get him a in a donor match is 1 in 25,000. of good, it does a lot of good, and it will continue Educational Foundation/DOP Symposium, Emmy Award Winner Congressional Gold Medal of Honor to do a lot of good. Yannis Simonindes solo performance of Plato’s Apology of Socrates at 16:00. recognition. That’s not a military medal, that’s a On the purpose of the convention: civilian medal. We’re working very closely with On his tenure: the Italian American organizations to get this July 11 - 13: This is the 85th Anniversary of our existence ŸBusiness Expo, between the United States and Europe. recognition for Mr. Brumidi. and the convention has been running every year I’ve been executive director since 2002. I came since 1922, with the exception of a small 2-3 to Washington in ’91 to work for AHEPA. I was We’ve also tried to keep the Greek language elected to the national leadership and served in July 12: year period during the Second World War. The ŸContinuing Legal Education, An Overview of: Tort Reform and alive in some fashion. We’ve tried, and we’ve convention brings the AHEPA family together various elected positions in the AHEPA when I wasn’t employed here—you can’t do both. Your Rights vs. Pharmaceuticals, Ike Gulas, Esq. at 08:00. succeeded in some areas, namely in Wilmington to deliberate over what we’ve done this past year Ÿ Anyway, it’s just my turn to be here, the guy Convention City Golf Tournament, Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course Delaware, where there’s a Greek immersion or two years and what we want to do in the at 08:00. charter school, but this is an AHEPA Greek future. How we want to refocus our efforts to who follows me, it will be his turn. I grew up in immersion charter school. There are other increase our membership and presence in the the AHEPA, I was the international president of the Sons of Pericles and I got to travel the July 13: immersion charter schools which are far more United States as philhellenes or Greek ŸContinuing Pharmaceutical Education, You and Your Medications, country in 1989 as the Supreme President of the older in age because they’ve been worked on for Americans or whatever term you want to use. Dr. John Grossomanides, R.Ph. quite some time. But the AHEPA believes that The age group of our members fluctuates. We Sons. And I was active member of the Sons for ŸGrand Banquet, honoring Pericles Award Recipient Greek Foreign we need to preserve the language and by have members that are 35 and we have members many years before that in my hometown in Minister Dora Bakoyiannis and Demosthenes Award Recipient preserving the language we can preserve a lot of that are 85. Each chapter has its own identity Philadelphia. And it was an eye-opening thing Antonios Diamataris, editor-publisher of The National Herald with our customs and heritage because with and each chapter performs civic duties in their for me to feel pride in being a Greek—I shared guest Master of Ceremonies Basile at 19:00. language comes—the festivals, the dancing, the communities, whether it’s voter registration, the same thing with kids in California, and in culture—all that. If you lose the language, you whether it’s running soup kitchens, whether it’s Canada, and in Mexico, wherever we went. July 14: lose a lot of things. We’re trying to get different donating items to soldiers in the field, the Wherever you went you would find a pocket of ŸFarewell Party starring critically acclaimed comedian Basile at chapters to see if they can investigate how to AHEPA means a lot to a lot of people. It does Greek kids and it was always like going home. 19:00. start Greek immersion charter schools in their not have one mission, it has several. cities, as well.

18 NEO magazine :: July 2007 NEO magazine :: July 2007 19 For over 85 years, “From the time I was a boy, AHEPA has been for all of us in Greece, the symbol of the Greek American community.” AAHHEEPPAA LLEEAADDSS TTHHEE WWAAYY Loucas Tsilas Today’s AHEPA is an extended family bound by a fierce pride in our Hellenic their country — every day. Executive Director of the Onassis Foundation heritage, a passion for education, and a dedication to community service, Civic Leadership AHEPA has been a Ambassador of Greece to the U.S., 1993-1998 philanthropy, and individual excellence. AHEPA leads the way in... With 500 active chapters, AHEPA has the largest grassroots network of concerned Greeks and Philhellenes in North America. Combined with our “For over 85 years, AHEPA’s record of service to our Hellenism Congressional scorecard and voter registration initiatives, this power gives proud part of the Our Hellenic heritage is what binds the AHEPA family together. Its AHEPA a unique ability to mobilize members on issues of importance to our country and to the Greek American community preservation is our deepest commitment. More than any other organization community and speak loudly with one voice to our elected officials, and we do. is unmatched… like it, AHEPA has stood firm in its defense of Hellenism — and in its efforts to make that heritage a vital part of the 21st century, by promoting Hellenic Individual Excellence Greek American In fact, your history serves as an inspiring record of Studies programs in universities, and through initiatives such as our exciting AHEPA stands for the Hellenic ideal of excellence — and our members are all that is best about America and Americans… .” Journey to Greece for young Greek Americans and Philhellenes. committed to keeping that ideal alive. Ahepans share a deep belief that each of R. Nicholas Burns us can and must strive to achieve excellence — and we work together to reach Education for that excellence which can only be found in man’s commitment to serving success story. U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs Every year, AHEPA members provide hundreds of scholarships to promising his fellow man. We invite you to join us today. Former U.S. Ambassador to Greece, 1997-2001 young Greek Americans on their way up. Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of outstanding young men and women go to college, and go on to I’m proud of the AHEPA success story - success. From high school seniors to post-graduate students and seminarians, OUR founding fathers shared a dream — to build a “AHEPA’s contribution was always decisive and I want that story to continue on into better life for their families in a new land. But when AHEPA scholars across the country are on their way to becoming tomorrow’s YYEESS!! the 21st century. That’s why I want to join AHEPA today as a: in the promotion of Greek interests in the U.S.A. leaders — and the latest chapter in the Greek American success story. they encountered discrimination and violence in MEMBER OF LOCAL CHAPTER ______City/State ______their new home they stood up together, and they With the zeal and patriotism which distinguishes it, Philanthropy Please send me an application form and information on your stood as one — founding AHEPA to protect their AHEPA was and is the ambassador of our national chapter’s approval and initiation process. families, defend their rights and fight for their AHEPA is the leading Greek American philanthropic organization in the world rights in their cross-Atlantic homeland, helping in every — contributing over $1 billion to worthy causes. From the restoration of the "FRIEND OF AHEPA" NATIONAL MEMBER dreams. I want to join the AHEPA Family today as a National Member. difficult case for the Greek voice to be heard clearly. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to the reforestation of Greek mountains ravaged by wildfire... from building urban hospital centers and rural health Please sign me up today as a Friend of AHEPA.* And when those battles were won, they worked The Greek State, mother-Greece, honours and thanks it.” NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP $75 (1 year) $135 (2 year) even harder. To secure for their countrymen the clinics in Greece to affordable housing for senior citizens here in America, Anastasis Papaligouras AHEPA is where Greek Americans come together to make a difference. Name same opportunities they had won through struggle Address and sacrifice, they helped thousands to become the Greek Justice Minister, 2007 first in their families to attend college. They raised For over 85 years, AHEPA members have been the heart of the Greek American community. Every year, Ahepans contribute over $1 million to Greek City State ZIP over $263 million in war bonds for their adopted Tel Fax country in its time of need during World War II — Orthodox communities through their local chapters. But even more than helping build churches and community centers, we’re proud of how our E-mail and $500 million more in affordable housing for As a benefit of my new national membership in AHEPA, I would like to chapters take up new challenges every year. Many of these countless seniors. send this gift membership, at a special rate available to member’s only. community efforts have gone on to become national successes, like the Greek GIFT MEMBERSHIP $65 (1 year) $120 (2 year) Ever since our founding fathers came together Autism Project and the Greek Children’s Fund at Sloan-Kettering. Name more than 85 years ago, AHEPA has been a proud Address part of the Greek American success story. Today’s And as the AHEPA family grows, so does the list of our contributions: from the Daughters of Penelope building the first shelter for battered women and Ahepans come together not only to honor that City State ZIP legacy, but to ensure it’s future in the 21st century. children in Alabama... to our youth groups, the Sons of Pericles and the Maids of Athena, combining forces to fight Cooley’s Anemia and supporting the Tel Fax American Hellenic Educational Deborah Heart and Lung Foundation, and on to aiding other causes such as St. E-mail Our members know what an amazing contribution Please charge my VISA MASTERCARD our Hellenic heritage and our community has made Progressive Association Basil’s Academy and the Special Olympics. to this country — and at what cost. And our Enclosed is my check For a total of $ members know that this story has just begun. Our 1909 Q Street NW., Suite 500, Washington, DC 20009 Whether it’s helping fund cancer research or providing relief for earthquake Enclosed is my check victims in Greece, AHEPA members are giving back to their heritage and to members know many changes and challenges to Tel: 202-232-6300 Fax: 202-232-2140 Card# Expires / / / our nation and to our heritage lie ahead — and www.ahepa.org Signature they’re ready to play a vital role in that future. To enroll as a National Member, please return this form along with your payment information or check payable to AHEPA to: Suite 500, 1909 Q That’s why our members have built AHEPA chapter Street NW, Washington, DC 20009. For more information about AHEPA by chapter, and family by family, into the largest membership, please call us at (202)232-6300. and strongest organization of it’s kind — and that’s * You can also become a National Member of AHEPA today, why AHEPA wants you. through owwwur new onlin.ahepa.orge membership registration on the

20 NEO magazine :: July 2007 NEO magazine :: July 2007 21 22 NEO magazine :: July 2007 MAN IN THE NEWS Tom Lantos holds hearing JOIN US IN PROTEST! Greeks, Greek Cypriots, and their friends will be demonstrating outside on Agia Sophia the Turkish Embassy in Washington DC (Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC) Rights Caucus has examined in the 25 years of the first dictator-president of modern Turkey, Friday, July 20, 2007, 2:00 PM - 5:00PM its existence, the most important have been forcibly converted it to a museum, the “Agia violations relating to Religious Freedom. The Sophia Muzesi” Caucus has paid particular attention and concern to human rights violations which Since the latest conversion Agia Sophia has to demand that Turkey’s brutal 33 years of Turkish military invasion with use of deal with forced conversions of Holy Places suffered tremendous destruction and untold and Holy Sites. The situation with Agia violations such as promoting the sale of floor napalm and American-made bombs, aircraft and weapons that began Sophia ranks amongst the most important tiles and bathroom fixtures, conducting issues to have come before our Caucus…The fashion shows and musical events and to on July 20, 1974, end now. Public Hearing will remain open for now, so holding world-class pasarellas. as all interested parties may submit additional written testimonies. We will continue our “The historic violations heaped upon the interest with Agia Sophia.” Mother Church of Christianity, Agia Sophia, Chris Spirou with Senator Patrick Kenneny for 554 years, non-stop, must come to an The Free Agia Sophia Council of America, end,” said Spirou in his testimony. “Allowing NO JUSTICE! NO PEACE! after the hearing spearheaded by former New Hampshire states and governments to determine the use Democratic Patry president and of holy places and to determine holy figures The President of the “Free Agia Sophia gubernatorial candidate Chris Spirou, brings humanity back to the law of the jungle Council of America” international movement launched a campaign last year with the aim to and to the law of the sword.” We call for FULL REMOVAL of ALL Turkish Chris Spirou testified before the restore Agia Sophia, now a museum, as a Congressional Human Rights Caucus of the functioning church of the Orthodox Christian United States Congress. The Public Hearing faith and a house of prayer for all Christians in soldiers from Cyprus! took place on Wednesday, June 20, 2007, in the world. Room 2200 of the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C. The hearing In 537 A.D. Byzantine Emperor was Chaired by Congressman Tom Lantos (D- Justinian consecrated the Great CA), Chairman of the Congressional Human Church, Agia Sophia, and named it The Turkish Government is one of the most repressive regimes in the world, Greeks, as well as Armenians and Rights Caucus and also Chairman of the after God’s Holy Wisdom. Upon powerful Committee on Foreign Affairs of the entering the Great Church on its Assyrians are denied basic human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and freedom of religion. United States Congress. consecration Justinian is said to have The Public Hearing dealt with the escalating exclaimed: “Solomon, I Have Following the early Twentieth Century Crime of Genocide against Greeks and Armenians, the Turkish State has violations of Agia Sophia, the Mother Church Surpassed Thee!” comparing Agia of Christianity and the Cathedral of the Sophia to King Solomon’s Great Orthodox Christian faith, which is located in Temple in Jerusalem. continued its genocidal policies by targeting Kurdish civilians and villages, denying Greek and Armenian and Assyrian Istanbul (Constantinople,) Turkey. In 1453 Agia Sophia was seized by Genocide, and thoroughly eradicating the Greeks from Cyprus. Also testifying at the Public Hearing were the the conquering Ottoman Turks and Honorable Raymond Buckley, former was forcibly transformed into a Democratic Leader in the New Hampshire mosque, against the commands and Get Involved! Get on the Bus to Washington DC! House of Representatives and the current the hadiths of the Prophet Chairman of the New Hampshire Mohammed, which prohibit the Democratic Party. Chairman Buckley forced conversion of Christian Call now to reserve a seat and to volunteer to help! testified as the Vice President of the “Free churches into mosques and the Agia Sophia Council of America.” disruption of Christian church services. Rhode Island State Senator Lou Raptakis also Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) testified, as did attorney Steven Schneebaum, Fatih Mehmet, the conquering New York, NY 10025 Legal Counsel to the “Free Agia Sophia Ottoman Turk leader who captured Council of America.” Constantinople, named his mosque Washington DC: 530-400-5821 At the end of the Public Hearing, Chairman “Agia Sophia Mosque.” The Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) is a grass roots, not-for-profit movement created to Lantos stated among other things: Agia Sophia remained a symbol of New York: Tel. 917-699-9935 support genuine self determination and human rights for the people of Cyprus. “Of all the Human Rights violations around Ottoman Turk behavior until 1934, Chairman Tom Lantos with Chris Spirou [email protected] the world that the Congressional Human when again General Kemal Ataturk, You are encouraged to forward this action alert to five or more individuals who may have an interest in the first dictator-president of modern www.cyprusactionnetwork.org our e-distributions or in CANA’s mission.

24 NEO magazine :: July 2007 journalism

The Greek Association for Atlantic and recognition that journalists must be website is the best resource for information European Cooperation in partnership with empowered with the knowledge and skills and communication. The website provides The Fund for American Studies takes pride in needed to report on a variety of political information detailing the Institute's academic presenting the 2nd annual Euro-Med economic and cultural and religious issues. and admission procedures and it also enables Journalism Institute (EMJI) in Athens, EMJI is the premier program for young applicants to check their application status Greece from September 29 – October 7, journalists. Journalists will have the online. 2007. The Fund for American Studies seeks opportunity to participate in social and qualified journalists to attend the Euro-Med networking activities while fostering new Applicants are encouraged to apply before the Journalism Institute. professional relationships. final deadline of July 15, 2007. Should you have any questions about the program please You can assist us in recruiting outstanding The Institute curriculum emphasizes how to e m a i l e m j i @ t f a s . o r g o r candidates to apply for the Institute. Those understand the role of a free press in [email protected] selected to attend EMJI will receive a promoting the values of a free society and generous scholarship. Each EMJI participant accurately report on international, political, will be required to pay a minimum of 150 and economic conflicts. Euros. J o u r n a l i s t s c a n a p p l y o n l i n e a t EMJI was developed in response to a growing www.tfasinternational.org. The EMJI

NEO magazine :: July 2007 27 ART & CULTURE RAW and UNAFR Constantine Law Firm AID Maroulis’ Debut Album of In 2005 Constantine Maroulis electrified America during season four of American Idol with his

By Dianne Bowen captivating delivery of Queen's classic "Bohemian Rhapsody." The Brooklyn-born, New Jersey-bred tist Agniork’s Zotis rocker will thrill his fans once again John Spiridakis with the highly anticipated release Ar y of Constantine – his solo album out August 7th, 2007 (Sixth Place at New Y ys” Records / Sony RED). Constantine a debuted “Everybody Loves,” the Tria Galler first song off the album, on The Bold & The Beautiful on Wednesday, May 15th 2007. Accidents & Medical Malpractice “Sacred W “Everybody Loves” is currently available on iTunes. Since his unexpected departure from American Idol, group exhibition Constantine has been hard at work, starring on Broadway in “The Wedding Singer” as well as in the critically acclaimed Divorce, Wills, off-Broadway revival of “Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and RAW: as in a pure pigment color p UNAFRAID: as in fearles alette or ma Living in Paris.” In between, he devoted considerable time texture, approach and a s expressive motions terialswith p and effort into finding the right band, assembling a talented ttitude without apolog aint, group of musicians that meshed into a cohesive and rockin’ Estates, Immigration y ensemble. Constantine co-wrote several songs on the record and songwriters who lent their skills to the album include "I'm a Greek from NY”, she will proudly tell work when seen in black light. Underlying their environment. seminal singer/songwriter Willie Nile; Angie Aparo (Faith you, "I'm a painter." You can find her in Agni concerns addressing issues of our humanity, Hill); Marcel (Rascal Flatts); and Grammy nominated, gallery at 170 East 2nd Street the majority of social responsibility and our existence in the Agni Zotis’ work stole the show, “Sacred Kevin Kadish (Jason Mraz). time, painting, contemplating, and chatting universe converse in text, color and form on Ways” a group exhibition that opened with curious by passers or deep in intellectual the canvas. In some cases they may smack June7th, 2007 at Tria Gallery at 547 W. 27th Constantine recently became a featured star on The Bold conversation regarding the universe, you in the face while lovingly soothing the Street, NYC. On view are 3 pieces from her and The Beautiful, which ranks as the Number Two most humanity, social responsibility, love, sting as if to say, “do you understand now?” work, - The Mediators I, The Mediators II watched soap in the world. Constantine’s role, which was collective awareness or a myriad of other and The Headless Pig. What I consider to be created especially for him, is based in part on his real life. topics. A bold generous laugh and eyes that The raw emotions vibrate through the work one of her major works, The Headless Pig, Throughout his thirteen-week stint, the show will be can cut you to the quick, she has the unique leaving you to contemplate their affect. was the highlight. Using repetitive forms, incorporating music from Constantine. This extraordinary capacity to question a stranger on the most Zotis's piece titled, Basic Necessities, is a concentrating in the atomic structure, bits of cross-promotion will bring Constantine’s music and intimate of subjects gaining access to the "real perfect example. She writes her thoughts garnet, blue quartz, crystal and gold glitter, Toll Free (24 Hours) personality to millions of viewers worldwide, an flesh” of their soul. This powerful depth is at clearly on the canvas going over the text with come from the beginning of existence. Bullet unprecedented opportunity for a young artist. 1-888-SPIRIDA the core of her work. The raw truth of it and layers of intensely colored pigments, spray shaped rainbows, inner energy, repeat 1-888-744-7432 the fearless nature of her process. paint and metallic flakes. The word SAFE in refracting light, capturing time with pure large letters is written across the center color in chalk pastel on the surface that can be The album reflects Constantine’s commitment to an She works primarily on a large scale using raw surrounded by concepts regarding the word. wiped away as fragile as life itself. In the unprocessed, live feel and organic edge. As a result, Manhattan bright colored pigments, stones, metallic The equation infinity =the square root of I center Zotis draws a headless pig in which she Constantine was recorded in intimate studios in New York 350 Broadway, Suite 703 New York, leafs, and phosphorus paints on linen and M=completion, brings you deeper into the paints a solid circle of gold pigment as the City, including co-producer Marc Copely's living room. New York 10013, Tel: (212) 768-8088 canvas. Bold abstract forms of color, contemplative intellectual process. "This gift, suggesting the inner will. There is unity “The album was cut live with my own band,” Constantine contemplative dripping and pooling are all a equation is very important to understand for a in her patterns. Symbolic underlying explains. “No programming, minimal overdubs. We’ve strangely highly controlled randomness in happier life. Safe, what is safe, who is safe, contemplations - resolutions solidify. The been playing these songs on the road and chose the tunes Queens nature, which create patterns of movement how do you feel safe, safe can't be guaranteed, work reflects both her intellectual curious that got the best feedback from our audiences.” The songs 33-04 30th Avenue, Suite 1, Astoria, within the forces of nature. Phosphorus it is an idealogy, uncontrollable and nature and her sense of humor. There is much on the album showcase the singer’s vocal versatility and the paints create a literal second dimensional life unpredictable." Agni states. The text exists as more to be said, but I’d hate to give it strong arrangements of the Maroulis band. New York 11103, Tel: (718) 204 -8600 representing the spirit, a transcendence of the both words and visual vibrations reacting in away…see it for yourself. The diversity of the album shows off the restless creative Email: [email protected] spirit of Constantine the singer and serves notice that he’s a musical force to be reckoned with. www.johnspiridakis.com 28 NEO magazine :: July 2007 Astoria’s Greek Cultural Center (KEP from its renown blues. initial in Greek) hosted recently a Day of Culture and Entertainment at the Stathakion Center. The KEP’s mission is to preserve our language and event that went on for hours, and although for culture through the arts. For the last 33 years it has children, was scheduled to coincide with Father’s been an active participant of cultural presentation Day. Kids had the opportunity to engage in in the Greek diaspora and has taken an active role making shadow puppets as well as art and dance in educating the community through its theater, workshops. Moreover, two shadow puppet theater dance and music initiatives. This coming Fall KEP “Karaghiozis as a Doctor” by Aris Diakovasilis will produce and host a comedy by Aristophanes, presentations took place, along with performances opening a new impressive cycle of activities. of traditional dances from Pontos to Crete. The Classical Pianist Areti Giovanou, program closed with a special appearance of Eros The Greek Cultural Center is located on 27-18 a KEP member, was in charge Taximi, a group by young Greek-American Hoyt Avenue South, Astoria, and for more for some of the workshops musicians who presented a full program with information its phone number is (718) 726-7329. Rebetika and Smyrneika songs, Greece world-

Argie Agelarakis, an accomplished Greek- Her collection includes more than one hundred Having her paintings displayed at the Artopolis, American artist, will display selections of her work, paintings of abstract art, twenty oil paintings, acting upon an idea of General Manager Regina titled “Thalassa,” on August 11 and 12 at the more than one hundred nudes, landscapes and the Katopodis, is something of a breakthrough, Artopolis Patisserie in Astoria. Throughout the Mediterranean Sea. although not an absolute surprise. Artopolis, in the years, Argie has developed a unique style of Agelarakis is a graduate of the School of Visual heart of Astoria’s Agora Plaza (23-18 31st St., tel. painting techniques and lay-out formats by Arts of Manhattan and an MFA graduate of 718 728-8484,) has been famous for its superb, blending colors through mixed media in oils, Adelphi University with additional studies in high quality deserts and baked goods, but also for pastels, printmaking, and collage, resulting in American and European academic institutions. its nouveau aesthetics and environment and serves abstraction and symbolism on a variety of themes. Her work has been shown in individual and as a meeting place for artists, intellectuals, Inspiration is derived from life experiences, collective exhibits in New York and Greece. professionals and people who look for something sensitivity and respect for nature and the different not too far away. environment, and travel throughout the Mediterranean & Caribbean. NEWS & NOTES Launching the (first) GreekPAC By Demetrios Rhompotis

GreekPAC, the first Greek American political president of the group’s founding member Hellenes Abroad) Coordinator Ted action committee, hosted its inaugural event advisory board said in an interview with Spyropoulos, WANDTV anchor Patricia this past June 26 at the Washington’s Capitol NEO. “We have three members now in the Kakridas from Illinois, her father James Hilton Hotel, with Congress’ rising stars Gus House of Representatives, but I think the Kakridas from Sacramento, California, John Bilirakis, John Sarbanes and Jack Space numbers could be higher,” added George Politis from North Carolina, Tina among others as guest speakers. They were Sifakis, president of the advisory board. Papadopoulos from Boston, James Jatras, joined by two very capable Greek American “There’s never been, to our knowledge, a Theo Margas and Nick Karambelas from DC, Republicans, Basil Mossaidis from Virginia national Greek American political action Serbian Unity Congress Director John and Dean Scontras from Maine, who next committee that could make a difference in the Bosnitch and Catherine Papathanasiou, year will seek their party’s nomination to run number of member of Congress.” Alex representing Republicans from Greece! for Congress. Spanos is the honorary founding chairman “Years ago we had eight members in with George Behrakis as co-chairman. Congress,” she reminded everyone. “GreekPAC is a mechanism to provide financial assistance for those politicians who Representatives Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Individuals may contribute up to $5,000 per are either in office or running for office and Henry Brown attended and saluted the event calendar year to the PAC, which can be who have a predisposition to assist in Greek as did Greek Americans from all over the US, reached at www.greekamericanpac.com American issues,” Nick Larigakis, vice among them SAE of America (Council of Some of the PAC’s pioneers

Georgette Kakridas, her father James Kakridas with Nick Karambelas and James Jatras (right) Congressman Zach Space. Theo Margas (left) with Kostas Alexakis.

Sheila Page, Basil Mossaidis, Michael Tina Papadopoulos and Eugene Rossides Zachariades and John Bosnitch

From left, Congressman Henry Brown, George Sifakis, Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Nick Larigakis

Taryn Sifakis (left,) Patricia Kakridas, WANDTV17 anchor, Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Georgette Kakridas with John Politis Ted Spyropoulos

Congressman Gus Bilirakis with Catherine Papathanasiou, representing Republicans from …Greece! Author Marilyn Rouvelas with Congressman Republican Candidate for Congress Dean John Sarbanes and Kostas Alexakis Scontras with his cousin Katherine Scontras

32 NEO magazine :: July 2007 Olympic Airways - Services / Art Studio

PERIXSCOPE

Consul Vladimir Khlebnikov Consul General of Russia Sergey Garmonyn (left) with Metropolitan Bishop Theodosius Lazor, former New York First of Russia with former New Socialite Margo Grant (left) York Governor George Pataki. Dr. Eugene Zubkov, Director Lady Evangeline Gouletas and Captain Miltos Kotzageridis. with Dr. Olga Goulko. of the House of Hope Foundation. Дay Of Russia in New York By Дemetrios Rhompotis Former New York First Lady Evangeline to be strong and flourish," he noted during Gouletas, CEO of Skyline Equities Realty, his welcoming remarks. and Captain Miltos Kotzageridis, Managing Director of Magna Global, were among the The Honorary Committees of the event Greek-Americans who showed up along with included Russian Senator Mikhail V. another 500 guests to celebrate this year’s Margelov, Senator Roy M. Goodman, Day of Russia in New York that also marked President and CEO of the UNDC, Yuri V. the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations Ushakov, Ambassador of the Russian between Russia and the Unites States. Federation to the USA, Louis F. Bantle, Organized by Globe PR Group and held Chairman Emeritus of UST, H.E. Vitaly I. under the patronage of the Embassy of the Churkin, Russian Ambassador to the UN, Russian Federation in Washington, the Sergey V. Garmonin, Russian Consul General Russian Consulate General in New York and in New York, Andrey P. Dolgorukov, Trade the New York Office of the Russian Trade Representative of Russia to the US, Zurab K. Zurab Tsereteli, Russian Academy of Arts president. Representation, the event took place aboard Tsereteli, President of the Russian Academy “Cornucopia Majesty,” a luxury cruise yacht of Arts, Andrey Z. Martirosov, CEO of UTair that traveled along a major water route of the Aviation, Rick Shannon, President of cities of the United States,” Ioori Smirnov, New York Harbor enabling the guests to AmeRussia Co and Dr. Eugene Zubkov, President of Globe PR Group, said enjoy a magnificent evening and a night Director of the House of Hope. addressing the guests. panorama of NYC. Personalities of Cyril E. Geacintov’s caliber, “It is estimated that more than a million A group of renown Russian classical former US Undersecretary of Commerce and people living in New York trace their roots in musicians and the Felix Swing Band President of the Russian Nobility Association Russia,” said Consul General of Russia in performed …miracles! Former New York (his family’s roots are traced in the 13th New York Sergey V. Garmonin, - a Governor George Pataki was among the century Epirus,) along with a roster of charismatic and energetic diplomat who was honorary guests. "Despite all disagreements internationally acclaimed artists such as key to the event’s success - in an interview that inevitably appear between states, it is Pianist Ilya Itin, Bass Mikhail Svetlov, Cellist with NEO. “We are so proud of them and of very important that Russia and the United Borislav Strulev and Soprano Anna Shaffa, their accomplishments. This celebration and States keep their close relationship and the among others, made the celebration an event other events that are in the offing are just a United States understand the need for Russia to remember. The Russian Greek Orthodox token of appreciation and an open invitation Catholic Church in America was represented to join us in forging a stronger US-Russia Philanthropist Louis Bantle, by Metropolitan Bishop Theodosius and relationship, based on real people. There is a Chairman Emeritus of UST, Protopresbyter Alexander Abramov. huge potential for development that in the received the Day of Russia end can only be beneficial to all.” He also in New York 2007 Russian and American officials, New York invited Greek American businessmen to look Award. C i t y a n d S t a t e A d m i n i s t r a t i o n to Russia for new opportunities. “Our representatives, members of the diplomatic relationship is over a millennium old and corps of New York, businessmen, leaders of there are so many things that we share. You the Russian-speaking community, renown are always welcome in my country, as other scientists, writers, artists, sportsmen, and journalists of the leading newspapers and Rick Shanon, Corporate Chair of the magazines were also present. Day of Russia in New York 2007. S e n a t o r M i k h a i l M a r g e l o v a n d Philanthropist Louis Bantle, founder of the House of Hope, were honored with the 2007 Day of Russia in New York Special Award for their outstanding contribution to the development of the bilateral relations between the United States and Russia. «We have a sincere hope that this event will make its positive impact on the strengthening and development of Russian- American relations in all areas and will create a good tradition for long years to come not only in New York, but also in other great

38 NEO magazine :: July 2007