O C V ΓΡΑΦΕΙ ΤΗΝ ΙΣΤΟΡΙΑ Bringing the news ΤΟΥ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΣΜΟΥ to generations of ΑΠΟ ΤΟ 1915 The National Herald Greek Americans A WEEKLY GREEK AMERICAN PUBLICATION c v www.thenationalherald.com VOL. 12, ISSUE 591 February 7, 2009 $1.25 GREECE: 1.75 EURO Anti-Cyprus Papadakis: Honoring Hellenism as Bias Aired On Drexel Univeristy President NPR Program Innovative Ideas Turned University’s Fortunes Around

By Dan Georgakas By Demetris Tsakas the helm, Dr. Papadakis managed Papadakis through his interviews Special to The National Herald Special to The National Herald to stop the downward slide and get with the paper and the specials de- the university moving in the right voted to the Philadelphia-based National Public Radio is one of NEW YORK – Greek American re- direction once again. university, as well as the honors the more reputable radio systems searcher and academician Dr. Con- Although each of the following and awards that the Greek Ameri- now operating in the United States. stantine Papadakis has built a sto- years came with their own set of can Community has bestowed up- Opinion and commentary are well ried career out of raising the bar unique challenges, Dr. Papadakis on this much deserving university labeled and usually are not con- higher than the competition in each dared to not only move forward leader. During his most recent in- fused with reportage. Recently, and every goal he has ever set. His one small step at a time, but chase terview with TNH, Dr. Papadakis The World, a program offered by courage and decisiveness have progress with leaps and bounds. spoke with particular pride about NPR, has violated this elementary been his greatest tools in achieving Since then, he has managed to ren- the progress and growth Drexel rule of journalism with two reports success in both the academic and ovate university facilities, establish University has achieved during his from Nicosia that consciously or corporate world. It was with this new programs, triple the student tenure as President. unconsciously promote the Turkish philosophy that he approached his body, and turn Drexel University in- When asked about the situation view of the island’s problems. greatest professional challenge on to a major research center. Follow- he inherited when he first assumed The reports are filed by Aaron August 1, 1995, when he walked ing the recent establishment of a his duties, Dr. Papadakis explained Schachter directly from Nicosia. up the steps of Drexel University to new campus in Sacramento, Calif., that “the big problem that Drexel Schachter’s reports do not contain assume the institution’s presidency. Dr. Papadakis has turned Drexel was facing back then was that it overtly anti-Greek statements, but Based on his impressive resume University into a bicoastal academ- had sustained major damage. The the unsaid can be as crucial as the and decades of accomplishment, he ic institution. student body had decreased from spoken word. Schachter’s omis- approached the challenge with When Dr. Papadakis assumed 16,000 to 7,500, and the quality of sions, style, and format grossly dis- complete confidence that he would the presidency of Drexel University, leadership had dropped off as well. tort the history of the island and not only manage to save the univer- it was ranked 175th out of 3,500 No employees had received a raise the current legal realities. Crucial sity’s prestige and assets, but im- U.S. universities. Today, it has for three years, the good professors issues are reduced to trivial cultural prove it and turn it into one of the climbed to the 89th spot on the list were leaving for other schools, and disputes for the amusement of most respected centers of higher of “Best National Universities,” and the university had fallen into a very third parties. education in the entire United was also named sixth among the dismal economic state. When I Nowhere in his reporting does States. top “up-and-coming” national uni- came here they were ready to sell Schachter clearly acknowledge that Dr. Papadakis took over the versities by U.S. News & World Re- off all of Drexel’s artwork and stat- the Republic of Cyprus (the Greek reigns of Drexel, when the 118- port. ues. They had even called state if you will) is the only govern- AP PHOTO/SUSAN WALSH year-old university was in a period Thanks to the innovative spirit Christie’s, which had prepared an ment recognized by the United Na- Harry Markopolos Testifies on Madoff Scandal of decline. Its student population and shrewd business sense he has inventory of the school’s artwork – tions and the European Union as had dropped off by 50 percent, and demonstrated all throughout his including our famous David Ritten- legitimate. Instead, Schachter ca- Independent financial fraud investigator Harry Markopolos testifies on just a few days earlier the interna- career, Dr. Papadakis has managed house musical orrery longcase sually but continually refers to the Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, February 4, 2009, before the tional art dealer Christie’s had to attract the attention of the Amer- clock, which was worth $10 mil- area occupied by the Turkish mili- House Financial Services Capital Markets, Insurance, and Government agreed to auction off Drexel’s art- ican, Greek American, and Greek lion. I asked the board of directors tary as “Northern Cyprus” as if Sponsored Enterprises subcommittee hearing on the Madoff scandal Mr. work so the university could raise press on many occasions. to give me a chance to save the uni- Markopolos criticized the Securities and Exchange Commission for 10 the necessary funds to cover its Readers of The National Herald Continued on page 9 years of inaction. See related story on page 4. debts. Right from his first year at are also well acquainted with Dr. Continued on page 5 Church Feud NFL Star Constantly Crossing Himself Ends In By Evan C. Lambrou Greene. ing himself during games. Special to The National Herald “It’s a blessing,” said Polamalu, That little fact is not lost on who was also part of the Pittsburgh Pittsburgh’s Greek Orthodox fans: Conviction For NEW YORK – After the game, Troy team which defeated the Seattle “Each time there is an important Polamalu couldn’t stop smiling. Seahawks 21-10 in Super Bowl XL play, he makes his cross the Ortho- During the game, he couldn’t seem three years ago. “I don’t know how dox way. Nobody else does this, Parishioner to stop crossing himself – from much he’ll remember, but he might and it is a beautiful thing,” said right to left, the Orthodox way – as have two rings in his vault and, God Metropolitan Maximos of Pitts- By Theodore Kalmoukos the Pittsburgh Steelers staged a re- willing, maybe more. He’s speech- burgh, who officiated at Polamalu’s Special to The National Herald markable comeback during the less right now as you can see.” wedding four years ago. game’s final three minutes, win- Reporters often have to strain to In post-game interviews, Pola- BOSTON – A Greek Orthodox ning the historic franchise’s un- hear the soft-spoken Polamalu’s malu joked about a see-saw fourth parishioner from St. Nicholas precedented sixth Super Bowl title. words, but the sound of his crunch- quarter, during which the lead Greek Orthodox parish in Oak The Steelers’ 27-23 victory over ing hits is as unmistakable as his changed twice in the final 2:37, Lawn, Illinois was found guilty and the Arizona Cardinals was only part impact on Pittsburgh’s drive for the and that the Steelers failing to put faces up to one year in prison ac- of the reason Polamalu was smil- NFL championship, having record- the game away until forcing Cardi- AP PHOTO/THANASIS STAVRAKIS cording to the legal guidelines for ing. The all-pro safety conducted ed seven interceptions this season. nals Quarterback Kurt Warner to Security Guard Shot Outside U.S. Embassy violating his priest’s order against post-game interviews with his Polamalu, one of the best defen- fumble in the closing seconds him not to step in the church for young son Paisios sitting on his leg sive backs, and arguably the best “probably took a couple of years off Police detectives search the scene of a shooting outside the U.S. any reason. in a No. 43 Steelers jersey and his safety in professional football, is al- my life.” embassy in Athens on Wednesday, February 4, 2009. Authorities Emmanuel Papadopoulos, 52, a wife Theodora standing next to so a devout Greek Orthodox Christ- “I wish it wasn’t close. But it’s say a 31-year old private security guard was seriously injured former employee of Bank of Ameri- him. Polamalu was also featured in ian. Drafted by the Steelers in amazing. It probably ranks up there when he was shot by a Greek policeman in an apparent accident ca and currently an independent a Coca Cola commercial reminis- 2003, most NFL fans are now famil- outside the U.S. ambassador's residence next to the embassy investment consultant had been a cent of Steelers great Mean Joe iar with the sight of Polamalu cross- Continued on page 4 building in central Athens. parishioner at St. Nicholas since 1962. Mr. Papadopoulos and five other members of the parish in- cluding the former treasurer of the parish council Susanna Searl were banned from even stepping into the DA Cursin’ Mad Over Lost Millions in Rondos Case G. Rossides House of God to worship for asking questions about the parishes’ fi- By Laura Italiano itated clients - including crippled was doing," the DA said of the ap- pointed guardian for 23 injured Passing the nances and transparency. New York Post babies. parent failure of the state's system clients who'd received big payouts The priest, Rev. John Artemas "The son-of-a-bitch was a pretty of monitoring guardianship ac- in medical malpractice lawsuits, and the parish council had him ar- It takes a special kind of thief to vicious guy," the patrician octoge- counts. clients who included cerebral-palsy Torch at AHI rested at his aunt’s forty day memo- get Morgy this mad. narian seethed in announcing Rondos is accused of chiseling sufferers, frail seniors, and children rial service on February 17, 2008 Manhattan's gentlemanly dis- Steven Rondos' indictment on mon- away at the loot so he could fancy injured at birth. for “criminal trespassing,” Mr. Pa- trict attorney, Robert Morgenthau, ey-laundering and grand-larceny up his $1.4 million home in Ridge- He should have been safeguard- By Evan C. Lambrou padopoulos went to church to pray yesterday needed a pair of profani- charges that could put him away wood, NJ - landscaping, renovating ing their total $30 million in pay- Special to the National Herald at his aunt’s memorial service and ties to describe a big-shot guardian- for up to 25 years. his kitchen, and even installing his outs, prosecutors said. instead he found himself hand- ship lawyer charged with stealing "A lot of people should have own home theater. NEW YORK – Eugene T. Rossides, cuffed by police and taken into cus- more than $4 million from incapac- paid attention to what this p - - - - Rondos, 44, was the court-ap- Continued on page 3 founder of the American Hellenic tody from the church. Rev. Institute, is stepping aside as presi- Artemas, who was assigned to the dent of the organization, which has parish in 2006, had informed Mr. been lobbying the United States Papadopoulos in writing that he Congress on Hellenic issues since would be arrested if he were to step 1974, shortly after Turkey invaded onto the church’s property. The Turkish actor Admits to War Cyprus. parish of St. Nicholas belongs to the Alexandros (Aleco) Haralam- Metropolis of Chicago. Crimes Against Cypriots bides of Miami, Florida will now BACKGROUND serve as president of AHI’s board of Everything started in January directors in what AHI Executive Di- 2005. Susanna Searl, the treasurer By Christopher Tripoulas Cyprus. They gave me duties of rector Nick Larigakis called a of the parish council discovered Special to The National Herald cleansing in the days of the most in- “seamless transition for the contin- certain questionable practices con- tense fighting.” uation of AHI under the next gener- cerning the finances, as well as a NEW YORK- A recent admission of Mr. Olgac went on to detail his ation of leadership in our commu- plethora of bank accounts, besides atrocities and war crimes committed initial apprehension to the orders he nity.” the ones known to the parish. One against Greek Cypriots by Turkish received for ethnic cleansing, and Mr. Larigakis told the National such account which belonged to actor Attila Olgac has made world detailed how he ultimately submit- Herald he is looking forward to GOYA was managed by the former headlines and brought the issue of ted to his commanding officers’ working with AHI’s new president, priest Archimandrite Timothy MIAs still unaccounted for from wishes and proceeded with the exe- noting that Mr. Haralambides is a Bakakos. Turkey’s invasion and occupation of cutions. proven quantity. Specifically, on March 15, 2005, Cyprus in 1974 back to the fore- “I told my Commander ‘I can’t do “I’ve known Aleco for many Ms. Searl, discovered several unre- front. Both Cyprus and Greece were it. I cannot kill [a] man. I am an years, and I have had the opportu- ported bank accounts using the quick to react to this issue, and artist.’ He told [me] that art is fin- nity to work with him on a number church’s tax identification number. promised to bring the matter to the ished here. Here we have real war. I of projects. I’m very glad that he’s These accounts included: the Ju- United Nations and the Human order you. You must kill”. The first our new president, and I really look nior GOYA account, the Senior Rights Council in Geneva. [person] I killed was a 19-year-old forward to working with him close- GOYA account, the Athletic Fund, Mr. Olgac confessed to the cold- child who was captured as [a] pris- ly,” he said. and the School PTO (Greek School) blooded killing of at least ten Greek oner of war. His hands was tied be- Mr. Rossides, 81, will continue account. Cypriot prisoners, when he was hind his back. When I pointed the to play an active role at the Insti- These accounts were not listed serving as a Turkish conscript in the gun towards his face he spat on me. tute, Mr. Larigakis said, but has on the church’s monthly financial 1974 invasion of Cyprus codenamed I shot him on his forehead and he elected to scale back his activities. report and have never been audit- “Attila.” The confession received died. Then I killed 9 [more] per- In his own comments to the Her- ed. The church accountant, Dean wide coverage due to the fact that it sons.” ald, Mr. Rossides said Mr. Haralam- occurred on television, while Mr. Ol- Mr. Olgac spoke to the audience bides symbolizes a new chapter in Continued on page 7 gac appeared as a guest on a popular about the devastating psychological AHI’s life, in that he is a younger Turkish morning talk show called impact that the executions he per- person who is deeply committed to “What is happening over there.” The formed had on him. “After killing, I advancing Hellenic issues, in keep- To subscribe call: 718.784.5255 text of his confession also appeared went to the barracks and I cried; and ing with AHI’s mission. e-mail: TNH/COSTAS BEJ in the Turkish daily Milliyet. next day I killed again. It didn’t go “We are happy to have such a [email protected] 2008 Teacher of the Year “I really killed 10 persons,” an out of my dreams. I had psychother- young, vibrant, Greek American apparently remorseful Mr. Olgac apy for a long time. Still I can’t eat professional – who has been a long- Dr. George Melikokis, principal of St. Demetrios Greek American Day told the host. I needed one day to meat. I can’t see blood. In my mind time supporter of AHI – as our new School in Queens, NY, was named the “2008 Teacher of the Year” by complete my military service. It was always the child I killed is coming president. He shows remarkable in- The National Herald during an event at TNH’s offices in Long Island precisely at that time that the and smelling corpses. This con- terest and knowledge regarding City on Friday, January 30, 2009. Dr. Melikokis has worked as an edu- Cyprus ‘Peace’ Operation was taking cator for more than 40 years. See related story on page 3. place. They sent me from Mersin to Continued on page 9 Continued on page 2 2 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 Leadership 100 Progresses in New Members and GOINGS ON... ■ FEBRUARY 7 1976, Ambassador Mallias has WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Wash- been at the forefront of Greece’s Contributions Despite the Economic Crisis ington National Opera Women’s stabilizing role in the Balkans, serv- Committee and His Excellency The ing as Director of the Southeastern By Theodore Kalmoukos ber 2008 to continue its grant pro- Ambassador of Greece cordially in- Europe (Balkan Affairs) Depart- Special to The National Herald gram until such time as the earn- vite the community to “The Mid- ment at the Foreign Ministry in ings from the Endowment Fund al- winter Gala,” at the Andrew W. Athens in various capacities, Head BOSTON – A record high of 64 new low the organization to resume Mellon Auditorium on Saturday, of the first Mission in FYROM. He members joined Leadership 100 grant distributions. February 7, 2009 at 6:30 PM. Re- also served in Libya and at the and $4.2 million was collected by Last November, the Organiza- becca Miller and Sally Cox are the Greek Permanent Mission to the the Organization despite the eco- tion announced that it will tem- Gala Co-Chairs. A not to be missed United Nations in New York, as nomic crisis that has hit the U.S. as porarily cease funding various pro- black-tie gala – join us for dinner First Counselor for Political Affairs. hard as ever since the Great De- grams and services offered by the and dancing as we celebrate Thes- He has also participated in many pression of 1929. Archdiocese, citing the ongoing saloniki through the ages! For indi- negotiating teams, such as the Also, the special fund launched economic crisis, which has cost the vidual tickets, please call The Mid- Greek Delegation to the Charter of by the Leadership 100, under the organization $15 million in losses. winter Gala Office at 202-295- Paris for a New Europe (CSCE). chairmanship of Charles H. Cotros, In an interview in November 2437 or e-mail MGala@dc- During his long career, Ambassador has raised $1,060,350 in cash and 2008 with The National Herald, opera.org. For corporate sponsor- Mallias has served in many other pledges from Leadership 100 mem- Leadership 100 Chairman Stephen ships, please call 202-295-2431 or positions, including the Depart- bers to continue support of scholar- Yeonas said that the organization e-mail [email protected]. ment of Middle East Affairs, and as ships for seminarians studying for was doing well and that its mem- Public Affairs Officer at the Infor- the priesthood at Holy Cross Greek bership was growing. “The only ■ FEBRUARY 10 mation Center for the European Orthodox School of Theology. problem that we have, much like NEW YORK – The Hellenic Cham- Community in Athens. Please mail The membership of the Organi- any other endowment fund, is that ber of Commerce and Norwegian- cash or checks to SPGH: 5125 zation has increased to 814 while the cash in our fund has fallen be- American Chamber of Commerce MacArthur Blvd. NW; Suite 11B; Leadership 100 celebrates its 25th low the level of contributions com- cordially invite the community to Washington, DC 20016. anniversary this year and the aim is ing in from our members,” he said. their Joint Shipping Conference, to reach 1,000 members by its 30th Specifically, Mr. Yeonas said that “How Will Shipping Survive the ■ FEBRUARY 20 anniversary. “last year our fund had $68 million, Perfect Storm?” at The New York SKOKIE, ILL. – The Hellenic Ameri- An Anniversary Celebration and as of October 30, 2008, we cur- Helmsley Hotel (212 East 42nd can Academy cordially invites the Conference was hosted from Febru- rently have $53 million.” Com- Street) on Sunday, February 10, community to “Music Analysts IV,” ary 5-8, in Puerto Rico, which will menting on the endowment's re- 2009 at 8:15 AM. Members: $625 a multimedia concert starring Dim- be attended by 324 members and cent losses, Mr. Yeonas noted that (additional from same firm: $575); itris Marinos, world-renowned their guests. The annual Confer- “we're not the only ones; all en- Non-Members: $695. Full program mandolin virtuoso, on Friday, Feb- ence will take place at The Ritz- dowment funds have lost money in and speakers to be announced. ruary 20, 2009 at 7:30 PM at the Carlton San Juan Hotel in Carolina, this crisis. We are in much better Registration/coffee begins at 8:15 North Shore Center for the Per- Puerto Rico. The founders of the shape than most of them.” AM, Conclusion/Networking Re- forming Arts, Skokie (9501 Skokie Organization will he honored dur- George Behrakis, right, passed the baton as chairman of Leadership The Archbishop Iakovos Leader- ception begin at 5:00 PM. Blvd, Skokie, IL). This multimedia ing the Grand Banquet on Satur- 100 endowment fund to Stephen G. Yeonas. ship 100 Endowment Fund Incor- performance is an exciting journey day, February 7. porated is a separate endowment WASHINGTON, DC – His Excellen- to the living tradition of Greek mu- Mr. Stephen G. Yeonas, Chair- fact that all their expenses are paid ception was on Thursday night and fund corporation that exists for the cy the Ambassador of Greece and sic, its origins in the European clas- man of Leadership 100, said “all for by Leadership 100. the Hellenic Festival on Friday. purpose of seeding and nurturing Mrs. Alexandros P. Mallias cordially sical music and its influence on the indicators look positive at the The Conference program will In honoring Leadership 100’s the ministries of the Greek Ortho- invite the community to a presenta- modern music through the sound momentous historical occasion,” he feature leading members and Founding Members, Arthur C. An- dox Archdiocese that advance Or- tion by Professor Carol Mattuch, of the mandolin and the images of said. “Attendees will gather primar- speakers from all fields of endeavor ton, Sr., Andrew A. Athens, George thodoxy and Hellenism. Members curator of the exhibition "Pompeii folk and modern dance, theatre, lit- ily to honor the Founders who have who exemplify the pursuit of excel- K. Chimples, Peter M. Dion, commit $100,000, which is paid and the Roman Villa" currently on erature, and multimedia. Con- contributed to the success of Lead- lence and the achievements of Michael Jaharis and, posthumous- over a period of 10 years or less. view at the National Gallery of Art ceived and developed by Mr. Mari- ership 100 by presenting them with Greek Orthodox Americans, includ- ly, Thomas A. Athens and George P. The contributions to the Fund re- until March 22nd. The exhibition nos “Music Analects IV” does not the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership ing a business panel discussion on Kokalis, with the Archbishop main permanently restricted and includes collections of Greek art only reflect his musical versatility 100 Award for Excellence at the important economic issues moder- Iakovos Leadership 100 Award for inviolate. Only assets in excess of that was commissioned by the Ro- but it is also indicative of his under- Grand Banquet, named for the vi- ated by George D. Behrakis and in- Excellence, Leadership 100 will that amount are used for the distri- man villa-owners in the Bay of standing of the musical relation- sionary Archbishop Iakovos who cluding Charles H. Cotros and John recognize their vision and zeal as bution of grants in accordance with Naples during the first century B.C. ships formulated throughout the initiated the organization.” G. Pappajohn at the Opening well as their dedication to service the purpose of the Fund. Professor Mattuch will present the concert. Center stage will belong to Archbishop Demetrios of Ameri- Breakfast and a Forum led by and determination to pass the torch Today, Leadership 100 has 814 "Greek Legacy on the Roman Bay of the famed Chicago composer ca, Metropolitan Athenagoras of lawyer, Plato Cacheris, who is also to the next generation. members. Since 1984, this fund has Naples" as Augustus in his new em- Robert Lombardo whose work “A Mexico and Metropolitan Alexios of a member of Leadership 100. Previous recipients were Sena- given out more than $27 million in pire sought to revive the notion of Zacinto” for mandolin and man- Atlanta will be present at the Con- A special Saturday Brunch and tor Paul S. Sarbanes, George J. funding for Archdiocesan programs the golden age of fifth-century dolin orchestra, written specifically ference, whose Chairpersons are Spouse program will be addressed Tenet, and Yanni in 2003; Melina and scholarships to the Holy Cross Periklean Athens. The event will for “Music Analects IV” will have its George and Margo Behrakis of by Emmy Award winning broadcast Kanakaredes and John D. Negro- School of Theology. take place at the embassy (2217 world premiere in this perfor- Lowell, Massachusetts who also journalist, Deborah Norville, host ponte in 2004; Senator Olympia J. Paulette Poulos, the Executive Massachusetts Ave.) from 7-9 PM. mance. The program will also in- will support the Conference finan- of Inside Edition for more than a Snowe in 2005; Dimitris L. Director (Interim) of Leadership The first collections of classical art clude works by Beethoven, C.P. cially. decade and the entertainment will Avramopoulos in 2006; Rudolph W. 100 said, “The story of Leadership formed by wealthy Romans were First, Michalis Lapidakis, Dionisis Initially all the hierarchs of the be highlighted by the preeminent Giuliani in 2007; and Theodore 100 – its successes in membership, brought to Italy from Greece as Lavragas, Alekos Xenos, Dimitris Archdiocese were going to attend country soul singer, Ronnie Milsap, and Gianna Angelopoulos Daskala- contributions and primarily in booty. By the first century B.C., Marinos, and Mikis Theodorakis. the Conference as they do every winner of seven Grammy Awards, ki in 2008. grants – its support of our Church, when the great villas were being Along with Dimitris Marinos sever- year. Some of them thought that as well as the Alpha Band, the best Total grants since the inception and its influence in our Community built around the Bay of Naples, art al other artists and musicians will their participation would scandal- in Greek music. of Leadership 100 will exceed $28 - is not complete without the un- in the archaic and classical styles showcase their talents. Among ize their parishioners who are go- New members and fulfilled million in 2009. This is because told story of how Greek Orthodox was being made in Italy. By the first them, the Milwaukee Mandolin Or- ing through extremely difficult fi- members will receive special recog- Leadership 100, in response to the American men and women from all century B.C., many Greek artists chestra, pianist Anya Yermakova, nancial times losing their jobs and nition and Leadership 100 Part- current economic crisis and its ef- walks of life have come together to had begun to move to the Bay of folk dancer Costas Economou, homes and many of their parishes ners, the young professionals and fect on its Endowment Fund, has renew their faith and their commit- Naples to fill the many orders for choreographer Asimina Chremos are struggling to keep the doors of future leaders, now numbering 74, raised the additional $1,060,350 ment to the Church in America to statues, busts, and paintings pro- and her group of dancers, percus- their churches open, thus they can- will orient young adults at the con- for the special Leadership 100 insure that the legacy of their for- duced in the Greek artistic tradi- sionist George Papadatos, the celed their participation. Other hi- ference to the purpose and goals of Grant Fund, which was formed by bears is passed on to their children tion. Augustus in his new empire Academy’s choir and Male Singers erarchs did the same despite the Leadership 100. The welcome re- the Executive Committee in Octo- and their children’s children.” sought to revive the notion of the Ensemble. The concert will be golden age of fifth-century Perik- stage directed by Takis lean Athens. His interest in art Theotokatos. showed the same focus. And so also did the collections of Roman vil- ■ APRIL 2-6 laowners, who favored classical ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – The Hel- Gene Rossides Is Passing the Torch at AHI styles for their statues, reliefs, mo- lenic News of America and the 18th saics, paintings, and luxury arts. Hermes Expo International cordial- Continued from page 1 around to offer my opinion and in- He also founded the Advent Title They bought portraits of Greek ly invite the community to The put, but I’ll let the board and staff Company in 2002, and in 2004, he thinkers and famous statues of ath- 18th Hermes Expo from April 2-6, U.S. relations with Greece and do the initiating. Second, I’m going founded Aristo Mortgage Invest- letes, and they chose Classical he- 2009. Starting from New York and Cyprus. We are pleased to welcome to spend a little more time helping ments, a licensed mortgage lender roes and myths to adorn their walls going to Philadelphia, The Expo him, and we look forward to work- out with our fundraising efforts. and investment firm focused on the and tableware. Please RSVP to will take place on the weekend of ing with him in pursuing AHI’s Third, I’ll be assisting the new presi- purchase and sale of whole mort- [email protected]. April 4-5, 2009 with a 120 Booth goals and objectives,” he said. dent and the board in seeking addi- gage loans. He is actively involved Exhibits at the Tropicana on the At- “It’s really a milestone for us, tional professional young people to with Miami’s Greek American com- ■ FEBRUARY 11 lantic City Boardwalk, New Jersey. and for the community, too, I think. become active. I also want to get go- munity, serving on the board of NEW YORK – The Cathedral Fel- April 2, 2009 - A Greek Food and Having Aleco Haralambides as our ing on my memoirs,” he said. Saint Sophia Cathedral in Miami, lowship cordially invites the com- Wine Tasting Mixer, Reception new president reflects my long- In a statement, Mr. Haralam- and founded the Hellenic Bar Asso- munity to its annual Pre-lenten Press Conference and B2B meet- standing efforts to bring new blood bides said he believes this is a piv- ciation in Florida. Lecture Series: “St. Paul: Apostle of ings based on profiles at the into the organization, and the fact otal time in history for AHI and the A passionate advocate for use of the Crucified and Risen Lord,” on Queens Art Museum in cooperation that he is a younger person who is Greek American community’s polit- the Greek language in America, Mr. Wednesday, February 11 at the with the Queens Chamber of Com- dedicated to our issues and to AHI’s ical efforts, emphasizing the need to Haralambides joined a steering Holy Trinity Cathedral Center (337 merce. April 3, 2009 - At the Gover- mission is terribly significant. stress the rule of law in American committee in 2001 to help fulfill his East 74th Street in Manhattan) at 7 nors Mansion Mixer, Drexel Uni- Among other things, it shows we foreign policy. father’s lifelong goal of starting a PM. The series begins on Wednes- versity Seminar on Tourism and have young people in our communi- “I am truly honored to have been charter school focused on Greek day, February 11 Dr. Bruce Beck, New Technology. Reception and ty who still care about our issues,” elected president of AHI. With the language immersion. In 2002, the Director, Pappas Patristic Institute B2B meetings based on profiles. he added. changes in today’s political climate, Archimedean Academy for Mathe- on “St. Paul and the Power of April 4 - 5, 2009 - The Tropicana Mr. Rossides also confirmed he I think we have a tremendous op- Christ’s Resurrection.” On March Hotel, Atlantic City, NJ Exhibition plans to remain active with AHI, but portunity to convey our message. 18, Fr. John Behr, Dean, St. Conference - A major happening that he also wants to create more The foundation of this message is Vladimir’s Seminary presents, “St. for Greek Americans, Americans in- time to write his memoirs. that the United States should apply Paul and the Victory of the Cross.” terested in Greece and South East- “I’m still on the board, so I ab- the rule of law consistently with re- Concluding lecture presented by ern Europe and other Ethnic Mar- solutely will stay active. I’m just re- spect to all of its allies, particularly His Eminence Archbishop kets. Symposium Brunch on Satur- distributing my time a little. I’m cut- when it comes to Turkey and the Demetrios on March 4. day 10AM-1 PM, Grand opening at ting down from 70 percent of my Balkan countries. This seemingly 1 PM, 120 Booths meetings B2B, time at AHI to 50 percent. First, I’ll simple task has been tremendously ■ FEBRUARY 12 Dinner Awards Entertainment and be reviewing policy statements, in- difficult to implement over the WASHINGTON, DC – The Society a Sunday Brunch Networking. stead of initiating them; I’ll be AHI Founder Gene Rossides years, but I’m optimistic that we can for the Preservation of the Greek April 6,2009 - A Grand Reception make significant progress.” Heritage cordially invites the com- Mixer at the Honorable Aris Melis- Mr. Haralambides was born in munity to a lecture by H.E. Alexan- saratos Estate, Baltimore, MD. For Miami. His father John was born to dros Mallias, Ambassador of more information, please visit In- Greek immigrant parents from Greece on “The Wisdom Of The [email protected]. Brusa in Asia Minor, and was a na- Past: Why The Greek Classics Are tive of Syracuse, New York. His Still Relevant” on Thursday, Febru- ■ NOTE TO OUR READERS POCKET-LESS mother Addie is a native of Cuba. ary 12, 2009 at 7:00 PM at The This calendar of events section is a Growing up, his parents made sure Carnegie Endowment for Interna- complimentary service to the Greek that he was fluent in both Greek tional Peace (1779 Massachusetts American community. All parishes, PITA BREAD and Spanish, and he spent summers Avenue, NW). Reception will fol- organizations and institutions are in Greece, which he says con- low. Admission: $12 (SPGH Mem- encouraged to e-mail their infor- Kontos Foods tributed to his identifying equally bers); $15 (Non-Members); $5 mation 3-4 weeks ahead of time, with both American and Greek cul- (students). Payment will be accept- and no later than Monday of the The Leading Company in Flat Breads ture. ed at the door or in advance. Join- week before the event, to Well knwon for the Pocket-Less Pita Mr. Haralambides attended the ing the Greek Foreign Service in [email protected] University of Rochester, where he Manufacturer’s of Authentic Ethnic Hand Stretched Flat bread. earned his bachelor’s degree in Po- litical Science. Upon graduation, he AHI’s new president, Alexandros Kontos the first family in fillo dough and fillo products. returned to Miami and began sell- (Aleco) Haralambides. QUESTION OF THE WEEK ing and managing commercial real FILLO KATAIFI, BAKLAVA, SPANAKOPITA, TYROPITA estate with his father’s real estate matics & the Greek Language was NUT ROLL, MELOMAKARONA firm. successfully launched with a little Vote on our website! and the TRADITIONAL MEDITERRANEAN DESERTS. Always mindful of issues impor- over 75 students. Excellent quality and service. tant to the Greek Diaspora, he be- Mr. Haralambides is currently You have the chance to express your opinion on our website on an came involved in numerous politi- vice president of Archimedean, important question in the news. The results will be published in our cal campaigns, including those of which today has approximately 700 printed edition next week along with the question for that week. We distribute in USA and Canada. Congressmen Mike Bilirakis and students, all of whom are taught Special prices for communities, schools, churches Lincoln Diaz Balart, both of Florida; math and science in Greek, al- The question this week is: Should the community do more to sup- festivals and other events Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehti- though only 9 percent of the stu- port the teaching of the Greek language at our parochial schools? nen (R-Florida); and U.S. Senators dents are of Greek heritage. He ❏ Yes Connie Mack III (R-Florida) and married Vasiliki (Vicki) Hioureas in ❏ No Olympia Snowe (R-Maine). 2005. They have a daughter. ❏ Maybe Mr. Haralambides subsequently In addition to Mr. Haralambides, The results for last week’s question: Do you think that Obama's eco- attended St. Thomas University law the current AHI Board of Directors nomic stimulus plan will help the U.S. economy? Kontos Foods, Inc school, where he excelled in Oral consists of James Lagos (vice presi- 29% voted "Yes" Box 628, Paterson, NJ 07544 Argument. He worked at numerous dent); Nick Karambelas (secretary); 61% voted "No" Tel.: (973) 278-2800 ñ Fax: (973) 278-7943 litigation firms throughout South Kostas Alexakis; Nick Chimicles; 11% voted "I don't know"

a b Kontos.com Florida before deciding to launch James Marketos; Mr. Larigakis and his own practice in 2002. Mr. Rossides. Please vote at: www.thenationalherald.com THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 COMMUNITY 3

TNH/COSTAS BEJ The Consul General of Greece in New York, Aghi Balta addresses the attendees at a ceremony honoring Dr. George Melikokis, center, and his family celebrate the veteran educator’s 2008 Teacher of the Year The National Herald’s 2008 Teacher of the Year George Melikokis on Friday, January 30, 2009. Award with teachers, students and members of St. Demetrios Greek American Day School in Queens. George Melikokis Named 2008 Teacher of the Year

By Eleni Kostopoulos er. to a noble cause. Stefanos Tser- Special to The National Herald “We need to find ways to create pelis, principal of Greek School of brighter days for Greek American St. Nicholas in Flushing, and Peter NEW YORK – In commemoration teachers, whose annual incomes of Daphne, president of the said com- of the Feast of the Three Hierarchs, $25,000 are barely enough to pro- munity, also expressed apprecia- The National Herald presents an vide a decent living during these tion toward The National Herald annual “Teacher of the Year” award hard times, and concurrently, we for recognizing Dr. Melikokis for all to one worthy educator who consis- should induct younger Greek his efforts. tently strives to strengthen the Hel- American teachers into the system “Without all you, there would be lenic culture and language for the to ensure the future of Greek Amer- no reason to keep going,” Tserpelis benefit of Greek American stu- ican education is secure,” he said. said. dents, making a difference in each “One day, I hope that we can all Rev. Father Konstantine Kalo- and every one of their lives. The unite to find a way to send our chil- gridis of St. Demetrios Church in “2008 Teacher of the Year Award,” dren to Greek American schools, Queens, NY, referred to Dr. Me- this year, was presented to Dr. without obligating parents to pay likokis as an excellent, incompara- George Melikokis on January 30 at the high tuition rate. We can do this ble educator. TNH’s offices, in recognition of his either through scholarships or do- “I believe with all my heart that astounding work as a teacher with nations, so that all students - rich or St. Demetrios sent you to our more than 40 years dedicated to poor - can receive a high-quality school,” he said. “There is an at- the system. Dr. Melikokis, who is Greek American education without mosphere of love and camaraderie currently the principal of St. the cost.” in this school. Our school has had Demetrios Greek American Day Dr. Melikokis also thanked An- many principals throughout its ex- School in Queens, NY, expressed tonis H. Diamataris, publisher of istence, but no one could ever deep gratitude for the honor be- The National Herald, for his unwa- reach the level of achievement that stowed upon him and said it should vering efforts to promote education Dr. Melikokis has offered. We serve as a reminder of the impor- while raising issues of importance should follow his example of giving tance of representing the voice of to the Greek American community. to our children an excellent educa- Greek American teachers, who Ms. Balta praised Dr. Melikokis tion while passing down our Ortho- work so diligently in their field for for overcoming harsh challenges in dox Christian values to future gen- the progression of Hellenism. not only continuing to fulfill educa- erations.” “It’s my goal to help, in any way tion’s mission of promoting Ortho- In closing remarks, Mr. Dia- that I can, our school, our Greek doxy and heritage, but for being mataris thanked all those who American children, our community able to maintain a school’s exis- Dr. George Melikokis, center, with his wife Vasiliki, left, and the publisher of The National Herald, Antonis came to support the newspaper, and our traditions,” Dr. Melikokis tence during such hard economic Diamataris. Dr. Melikokis was named The National Herald’s 2008 Teacher of the Year and was honored at Greek American education and the said. times, while ensuring its efficiency a ceremony at TNH’s offices in Long Island City on Friday, January 30, 2009. esteemed honoree. The event was attended by Con- with his role as a principal. She “This system needs teachers sul General of Greece in New York, added, the recognition of such dri- continues to host an even greater the Federation of Greek-American importance of Dr. Melikokis’ expe- throughout the U.S., who put up a Aghi Balta; Consul General of ven teachers as Dr. Melikoki plays a turn-out each passing year. Educators, spoke with great vigor rience, the time he’s dedicated to good fight, just as we need journal- Cyprus in New York, Andreas Pana- significant role in raising issues of Dr. Ioannis Efthimiopoulos con- when she stressed the immense re- his educational endeavors and the ists,” he said. giotou; Greek Orthodox Archdio- awareness relating to Greek Ameri- gratulated the honoree, who he sponsibility of representing educa- incredible talent and intelligence “The subject of education is one cese of America Greek Education can education. said has been a good friend to him tors. he possesses. that deserves attention and sup- Director, Dr. Ioannis Efthimiopou- Mr. Panagiotou expressed for many years. “There are not many people out “He’s served on many boards, port. The community never be- los; Direct Archdiocesan District Di- thanks to TNH for not only support- “His character is defined by the there supporting our poor teach- he’s dedicated so much time to lieved whole-heartedly, that a rector of the Greek Orthodox Arch- ing the Greek American communi- smile that is always on his face,” Dr. ers,” she said. Greek American education,” she Greek education system would be diocese Education System, Maria ty, but for urging the continuation Efthimiopoulos said of Dr. Me- “You must stand up for them as said. “He’s a man of determination, developed in the U.S. and turn out Makedon; George Blikidis; Dr. Me- of the Greek language in the U.S., likokis. He added he and Dr. Me- much as you can. Love the teacher, virtue and a wonderful teacher to be as successful as those in Con- likoki’s fellow teachers, colleagues, for bringing significant topics to likokis shared similar visions when just as Mr. Diamataris does, just as who continues to shine in the world stantinople or Egypt, for example. supporters of Greek American edu- light and for placing great value on they first started working in the sys- our journalists do, just as benevo- of education.” We never believed we could do the cation and other esteemed guests. Greek American education. He tem together. Mr. Efthimiopoulos lent sponsors do, like Mr. Koloidis. Apostolos Fountas, president of same. Fortunately, however, there Guests also enjoyed a musical per- added that Dr. Melikokis is well-de- also congratulated Dr. Melikokis’ Continue speaking Greek always.” the society of Greek Education in were fighters like you, there were formance by Serafim Lazos, the il- serving of this recognition and he is family, who were in attendance. Ms. Makedon, long-time associ- New York “Prometheus,” praised teachers, priests and those willing lustrious and talented guitar-play- pleased that the celebratory event Ms. Stella Kokolis, President of ate of Dr. Melikokis, stressed the Dr. Melikokis for dedicating his life to go the extra mile.” Hellenic Business Network Brings Big Idea Competition to New York

By Mark Frangos plan is awarded a substantial sum, hower, Nixon and Ford; and three three other panel speakers. bonds in the New York Greek Com- stage oral presentations and attend Special to The National Herald press coverage and support poten- Democrats: Kennedy, Johnson and The President of HBN’s New York munity and the HBN is a fantastic interviews with judges. This process tially leading to the formation of a Carter – to support schools, colleges Chapter and Managing Director at organization we can continue that culminates with the final award in NEW YORK – The Hellenic Business successful startup company. and universities, the arts and the hu- Merrill Lynch discussed “Establish- with,” said Christos Birkitt, the Pres- early May. All teams including those Network held an event as part of its The program included a panel manities, libraries and museums, ing the HBN New York Chapter.” ident of the NYU Hellenic Heritage that did not play or win in the Big Idea Competition on Tuesday, discussion with innovators and busi- and services for the elderly, the dis- Yannis Lambrou, a senior re- Association, who worked with HBN “WarmUps” can participate in the February 3, 2009 at the New York ness leaders. abled, college student assistance searcher at Fujitsu Laboratories of to bring the event to the NYU cam- “BigDeals” Competition. University Kimmel Center. President Emeritus of New York and many others.” America spoke about “Commercial- pus. The HBN-BIC follows the an- The Hellenic Business Network’s University and former U.S. Con- Dr. Brademas tried to inspire the izing an innovative idea.” There are two stages to the Com- cient Greek tradition of acceptance Business Idea Competition (HBN- gressman John Brademas who dis- audience despite the difficult eco- Chris E. Talis, founder and part- petition: the $500 “WarmUps” and and meritocracy singularly focused BIC) is a business plan competition cussed “Entrepreneurship in Gov- nomic times. ner of Hedgerow Mergers and Ac- the $20,000 “BigDeals.” The $500 on attracting and promoting great that aims to inspire, educate and ernment and Academia,” welcomed “We meet today at a time of quisitions, discussed “How to estab- competition is intended as a warm business ideas. There are no entry support aspiring Hellene and Phil- the attendees the event. worldwide economic crises and the lish your own Business.” up where teams submit short, 1000- restrictions: everyone, regardless hellene entrepreneurs in the cre- “My primary committee assign- opportunity for us as Americans and The event was then opened up to word idea summaries in the fall of race, citizenship, background, ation and growth of successful busi- ment was education and labor,” he especially as Americans of Greek de- a Q&A session. starting in September with awards status or age is eligible to enter. The nesses. This process of learning, said. “There I took part in writing scent, to generate ideas and skills to The Hellenic Heritage Associa- granted in December. This is fol- only constraint is that teams and mentorship, teambuilding, and net- nearly all the measures enacted dur- strengthen our economy could not tion of NYU helped organize the lowed by the “BigDeals” Competi- their companies should not have al- working culminates in a final con- ing the Administrations of six Presi- be more timely,” he said. event. tion, which starts in early February. ready received significant external test where the winning business dents – three Republicans: Eisen- Dr. Brademas was followed by “I’ve been working to increase Teams submit full business plans, funds.

District Attorney Angry Over Rondos Tutoring: Internet/Telephone Continued from page 1 tinued to steal money even after other victim, prosecutors said. the victims had died, prosecutors "It was really despicable stuff After all, the money was sup- said. that this guy did," Morgenthau posed to provide for them and their Three times, when confronted said. Special Features: medical needs for life. with his thefts, Rondos paid back To pull the scheme off, Rondos In some instances, Rondos con- the victim by stealing from yet an- merely funneled money from the 1) Phonetic method / Personalized accounts into his law firm's operat- ing account, and wrote checks to 2) Simple, easy, quick, affordable himself from there. Rondos is a past president of the Bay Ridge Lawyers 3) Weekly lessons Association, and has served on the New York State Bar Association as 4) References available vice president of its guardianship committee. By state law, all guardianship

books are supposed to be reviewed a b by court-appointed examiners, and Instructor: Helen Dumas these were, Morgenthau said. But Authority in teaching Greek as 2nd language the examiners are lawyers, not ac- HELEN DUMAS countants, and somehow missed the allegedly siphoned millions. - Native of Greece; UCLA credentialed Teacher "The system of monitoring these Speak Greek in 2 Months guardianships has got to be re- Plus other courses for children & adults - Director of GREEK EDUCATION for W. US for 25 Years formed," the DA said. "The shocking thing to me is - Nationally recognized as "The teacher of the Year in USA" these examiners - none of them FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: - Internationally recognized by the Greek government, and ever spotted it." Rondos was arrested at his Call: (310) 373-0808 or - From the Greek Orthodox Church in America, Helen was home yesterday morning, and was E-Mail: [email protected] being held in Bergen County pend- awarded "The Medal of Saint Paul" - the highest honor Lawyer Steven Rondos pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing more ing extradition to New York, au- Website: www.speakgreeknow.com than $4 million he was managing for children and the elderly. thorities said. 4 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 Steelers Troy Polamalu Constantly Crosses Himself

Continued from page 1 sport athlete at Douglas High School in Winston, Oregon where with last year’s game,” he said, re- he lettered in baseball, basketball ferring to the New York Giants scor- and football. ing in the final minute to ruin the He played football for four years New England Patriots’ bid for a per- as a running back and defensive fect season last year. “That’s what back. As a senior, he was an All-Far the fans want, and that’s what the West selection in football; an all- fans got.” state center fielder in baseball; and As for the Steelers’ place in NFL a two-time all-league player in bas- history, Polamalu said the record ketball. sixth Super Bowl title speaks for it- Polamalu played college foot- self, particularly in a city with a ball at the University of Southern smaller market. California. In his career as a 3-year “It’s arguably the best franchise starter for USC, he recorded 278 in sports – to do it the way the tackles (29 for losses), six intercep- Rooney family (which owns the tions (three returned for touch- Steelers) has done it; to have the downs), 13 deflections, two fumble support in Pittsburgh. It’s not a big recoveries and four blocked punts. market. It’s not like the Dallas Cow- He was voted All-American first- boys, where you get a lot of press,” team selection by the NFL Draft Re- he said. port, Associated Press, Walter “It’s a blessing in the way that Camp, Football News, CBS Sports it’s a blue collar team. We’ve grind- Line and ESPN. ed it out since the beginning of the In 2001, he was named the Tro- Pittsburgh Steelers, and it’s really jans’ MVP, leading the team with wonderful that it paid off this way,” 118 tackles (79 solo), including 13 he added. for losses, and six deflected passes. Polamalu’s presence on, and He was also roommates with cur- AP/AMY SANCETTA contributions to, his team are not rent Cincinnati Bengals Quarter- Pittsburgh Steelers Safety Troy Polamalu celebrates with his in- lost on his team. The five-time Pro back Carson Palmer and current Pa- fant son Paisios following Pittsburgh’s 27-23 win over the Arizona Bowler leads by example, with an triots Quarterback Matt Cassel. Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII last Sunday, February 1, in Tampa, extraordinary style which allows Polamalu is easily recognized Florida. him to anticipate plays both at the when playing because of the large line of scrimmage and in the defen- mane of curly hair cascading out of sive secondary. His teammates con- his helmet and past his shoulders. sider him one of the team leaders, Despite his hard-hitting style on Pittsburgh Steelers Star Safety and his coaches hail his natural ath- the gridiron, he says his prayers be- letic talent. fore each game, and also on the He spearheads an aggressive sidelines. Off the field, he is known Talks about His Orthodox Faith secondary on Pittsburgh’s vaunted AP/GENE J. PUSKAR as a soft-spoken, Christian family defense which has neutralized the Pittsburgh Steelers Safety Troy Polamalu talks with Head Coach Mike man. Yahoo! Sports posted the following interview with Troy Polamalu, the receiving corps of many teams Tomlin during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLIII against the Ari- Polamalu converted to Greek Pittsburgh Steelers’ all-pro defensive back, on September 25, 2007. In the throughout the 2008-09 season zona Cardinals last Sunday, February 1, in Tampa, Florida. Orthodox Christianity through the interview (by Jason Coles), the complete text of which is published below, (safeties and cornerbacks form the influence of his wife Theodora. Polamalu discusses his Orthodox Christian faith, and how important it is secondary, the last line of defense, Among his spiritual activities is a to him and his wife Theodora. comprising at least three players 2007 pilgrimage to Greek Ortho- PITTSBURGH – Strong Safety Troy Polamalu has become known who line up as defensive backs. dox sites in Greece and Turkey. around the Pittsburgh Steelers as the last guy out of the locker room They cover receivers and try to stop Polamalu has a humble lifestyle. on Sundays after home games. All of his teammates are long gone, and pass completions, and occasionally He rarely hangs out with team- even most of the equipment guys have cleared out by the time he rush the quarterback). mates, preferring instead to spend emerges. “He plays like a maniac on the time at home with his wife and Polamalu goes through a detailed process, including a dip in a cold field, and I can hardly ever get him child. Theodora recently gave birth tub and a lengthy shower to relax after a hard-hitting afternoon. to say two words in the locker to their son this past October 31. But for a guy who doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to leave, Polamalu room,” Steelers Running Back Polamalu seldom gives inter- does put a serious priority on his time away from the field with his Willie Parker said. views, but when he does, he usual- wife, Theodora, the sister of Polamalu’s former USC teammate, Alex Chris Kemoeatu, who plays on ly takes an opportunity to discuss Holmes. the offensive line, said he enjoys the role his spirituality plays in his COLE: Do you have a routine you follow on your day off? watching Polamalu from the side- life, and has said that he tries to POLAMALU: We work out together because that’s our only day off lines. separate himself from his profes- together. It’s a pretty decent workout. She does a lot of running, and I “He’s a phenomenal athlete,” sion as much as possible, like not do a lot of stretching. Tuesday is also our only opportunity to go to Kemoeatu said. “The way he plays watching football games at home. church together, so we do that. the game is just crazy. He’s fun to Other off-field interests include COLE: When and where do you go? watch. He’s one of the leaders of growing flowers, making furniture POLAMALU: It starts at 8:30 in the morning. It’s the Nativity of the the team. He doesn't talk much, but and playing the piano. Theotokos monastery (in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania). he speaks with actions.” Ever polite and respectful, Pola- COLE: I know you’re devoutly Christian (Polamalu has a carefully Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin said malu says he has no problem recon- arranged series of religious items in his locker at Heinz Field), but ex- Polamalu has special abilities: “You ciling what he does for a living with actly which denomination? can’t teach people to play the game his Christian faith, and says he sees POLAMALU: Greek Orthodox. Theotokos literally means the Moth- the way he plays it,” Tomlin said. no contradiction in his approach to er (Bearer) of God. “His intuition, his physical gifts, his life, on or off the field. COLE: How long are you in services? perception of the game is very “Honestly, for me, I don’t see any POLAMALU: They usually go to about 12:30. unique. “You don’t harness it. You transition once I step between the COLE: That’s a four-hour service. Is that a normal service? embrace it, and you appreciate it lines. I do it the same way I live my POLAMALU: Pretty much, especially at a monastery. for what it is.” life, and that’s with passion and de- COLE: Can you describe it? Pittsburgh’s venerated defensive votion to either my family or in this POLAMALU: What’s really neat about the Orthodox Church is that coordinator Dick LeBeau, 71, said case, football,” he said. it’s like walking back 2,000 years to the time of the Apostles, when Polamalu is one of those rare, gift- “Football is a very violent game, they created these services. You walk into that, and it’s really like… liv- ed athletes: and it’s played very passionately. If ing it. They have maintained the truth ever since the beginning. “I don’t believe I’ve ever seen I were doing ballet or anything COLE: You’re Polynesian. How did you end up in the Greek Ortho- anyone quite like Troy,” said else, I would approach it with the dox Church? LeBeau, who has been coaching in same passion,” he added. POLAMALU: There are different ethnicities, like Russian Orthodox. the NFL for 36 years after a 14-year Polamalu is also featured on the My wife is Greek. I was a non-denominational Christian before we got career as a top NFL defensive back. AP/MARK J. TERRILL cover of the children’s book, “Na- married. So we sit around there and meet with our spiritual mother, “His acceleration factor is so in- Arizona Cardinals Wide Receiver Larry Fitzgerald, left, is tackled by tional Football League Megastars,” and then we go home – maybe take a nap, work out and then go home stant. Those are traits you often see Pittsburgh Steelers Safety Troy Polamalu (43) and Cornerback Ike which profiles Polamalu and 14 and have dinner. in a cornerback, but he’s over 200 Taylor (24) during the fourth quarter Of Super Bowl XLIII this past other NFL stars. COLE: Who’s making dinner? pounds. His ability to impact plays Sunday, February 1, in Tampa, Florida. POLAMALU: My wife; I can not cook, at all. I’ve tried. I’m terrible. goes with things you see with a The above incorporates informa- When I cook, it’s something nobody else would enjoy. safety. You add to it an intuitive himself,” LeBeau added. heritage. He was born in Garden tion from reports posted by the COLE: You only cook specialty things for yourself? mind, a natural feel for the game of Like Olympic diving great Greg Grove, California on April 19, Dallas Morning News, Reuters POLAMALU: No. It’s not that I won’t make it for anybody else. It’s football, and Troy’s in a class by Louganis, Polamalu is of Samoan 1981. He was a standout three- and the Associated Press. that I’m the only one who is going to enjoy it. I’ll look at the other peo- ple and say, “Did you like it?” And they say, “Noooo.” COLE: Do you have any other hobbies or things you do away from the field? Maybe bowling? POLAMALU: No, not really. The single guys go bowl. The guys who are married go home, mostly. I really focus on spending time with my Markopolos Testifies in Congress about Madoff Scandal wife. COLE: How hard is it to get time at home during the season? I know By Dana Milbank guys like (Miami Dolphins Linebacker) Zach Thomas stay at the facili- Washington Post ty until very late studying film and (Indianapolis Colts Quarterback) Peyton Manning is watching film at home. Harry Markopolos, the deriva- POLAMALU: First of all, I’m a Christian, so my prayer life really tives whiz and private investigator comes first. Second of all, I’m a husband, so my wife comes before any- who uncovered the Bernie Madoff thing else. If I have time to do anything else after that, I do it, but I scandal, came straight from central don’t sacrifice any time with her. casting: geeky, with too-big glasses COLE: A lot of guys do it the other way around. Football comes and a prominent comb-over. When first. They say family and faith come first, but they really do the foot- he spoke, it was in the vocabulary ball first. How do you reconcile it? of a man who had watched a lot of POLAMALU: It’s really easy for me. I love my faith, and I know detective movies. that’s first. I really think I know what’s important in my life, and that’s "My Army Special Operations my faith and my wife. background trained me to build in- COLE: So football is a really focused activity. There’s no wasted telligence networks, collect reports time, right? from field operatives," Markopolos POLAMALU: Actually, it’s a lot of fun, and it’s something I enjoy. It’s told a House subcommittee yester- not like, when I’m here, it’s business time and then there’s family time. day. For me, football is something I do. It’s like for you, you’re a reporter. He delivered findings "to the It’s what you do, not who you are. Football does not define me. How I SEC without signing my name." am with my faith and how I treat my wife is what truly defines me as a He "made copies such that my man. That is my goal in life – to live that way and believe in it. It would fingerprints were never on that be cowardly of me to say that I enjoy my time with my faith and my package. I handled it only with wife if I really didn’t spend that time with them. gloves." COLE: How long have you been married? He offered to wear "a disguise, POLAMALU: Two years now. as I was trained to in the Army," and COLE: Kids? do undercover work for the Securi- POLAMALU: God willing, someday. But three dogs count for one ties and Exchange Commission kid, I think. "and have no one know where I AP PHOTO/SUSAN WALSH COLE: Um, no. was, except my wife, and I would Independent financial fraud investigator Harry Markopolos testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, POLAMALU: Three English bulldogs count for one kid. have no contact with my family Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009, before the House Financial Services Capital Markets, Insurance, and Govern- COLE: No. during this time." ment Sponsored Enterprises subcommittee hearing on the Madoff scandal. POLAMALU: No? Why the cloak and dagger? COLE: I have two kids. No. Some of Madoff's money "came dash of "Dragnet" and "Lethal "I would like to just say for the rest." POLAMALU: Come on (chuckling), it has to count for one kid. from the Russian mob and the Latin Weapon" sprinkled throughout his record that I see you as a modern- The sleuth's choicest words COLE: I respect and admire your beliefs and your stand on many American drug cartels," Markopo- testimony. day Greek hero," said Rep. Jackie were reserved for the SEC, which things, but I’m not buying the three dogs-to-one kid ratio. los explained. "If he would have Markopolos's demeanor could Speier (D-Calif.). he assaulted with a vengeance once POLAMALU: Okay, you win this one. known my name and he knew that make it easy to dismiss him as an Markopolos had a knack for directed at Madoff. COLE: Wait till you have a child waking up at 3 AM, hungry and we had a team tracking him, I did- eccentric, and the SEC apparently blunt and colorful language befit- "I gift-wrapped and delivered then he’s got colic and he’s screaming and you have no idea why. n't think I was long for this world." did, paying him no attention as he ting an action hero. He recom- the largest Ponzi scheme in history POLAMALU: (laughing) Yeah, it’s probably like, “Talk to me. Tell "How were you compensated?" presented evidence to them for mended that the SEC hire industry to them, and somehow they could- me what’s wrong. Oh, that’s right. You can’t talk to me.” Yeah, with the asked Rep. Gary Ackerman (D- years of Madoff's Ponzi scheme. But veterans who "have gray hair or no n't be bothered," he complained. dogs it’s, if they urinate in the house, you say, “Go to the kennel.” N.Y.). Markopolos was right, and now hair." The SEC did a good job of mak- "There was no compensation," he's telling his story -- yesterday, to He looked up at the panel's ing Markopolos's case for him; after Markopolos answered. "We did it Congress, and soon, you can bet, at chairman, Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.), he left the table, he was replaced by for the flag, the flag of the United a theater near you. who is gray and mostly bald. "You'd a panel of agency lawyers who re- States of America." Markopolos recounted how he be perfect," Markopolos said. fused to say anything about the Thus did Harry Markopolos of figured out Madoff was a fraud ("It He used detective-movie phras- Madoff case. Expand your mind... Boston establish himself as a next- took me about five minutes") and es, such as "There is no light and But even if they had spoken, generation Dirty Harry -- a deriva- how he proved it ("I did about four only darkness." Wall Street, he said, they couldn't have offered anything The National Herald Bookstore tives industry vigilante, part Lt. hours of modeling"). has a "code of silence," and Madoff to compete with the thriller plot the (718) 784-5255 Columbo, part Adrian Monk, with a The lawmakers were impressed. now is held "under penthouse ar- latter-day Dirty Harry outlined. THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 COMMUNITY 5 Constantine Papadakis: Honoring Hellenism as President of Drexel

Continued from page 1 that Drexel's law school will receive the United States to have a bio-wall, University and got married in 27,000 applications for 2,500 open- and will also be the largest bio-wall Athens. After honeymooning in versity’s cultural inheritance. For- ings, while its medical school ex- ever built. A bio-wall is a permeable Sounio, they moved from Cincinnati tunately, they listened and not only pects to receive 12,000 applications wall made with plants. The plants to Ann Arbor, Michigan, so Dr. Pa- do we still own these pieces today, from which it can only select 250 act as a filter between the indoor padakis could take a position at the but their future is more safe now students. and outdoor environments, leaving University of Michigan. Soon after- than it ever was.” When discussing the agreement the building's air clean, and assist wards, Dr. Papadakis began doctoral Dr. Papadakis looked back to the he reached with renowned philan- with temperature control, making studies in September 1971 and day that he officially assumed duties thropist and real estate mogul An- the building environmentally earned his Ph.D. in December 1973. of President; Monday, August 1, gelo Tsakopoulos over a land grant friendly. The Integrated Sciences He later took a position at Bech- 1995. When he came in to work that he made to Drexel so it could build Building will be the most expensive tel Power. “I received my first job in Friday, he remembered not finding a West Coast campus, Dr. Papadakis building Drexel has ever construct- 1974, working on a project for the the secretaries and seeing all the said, "California was our next step; ed, costing $60 million. Washington, D.C. subway. It was a lights in the university turned off. “I and this was made possible thanks FROM CRETE TO THE U.S. huge project. I stayed at Bechtel called up my personal secretary and to my dear friend Angelo Tsakopou- Dr. Constantine Papadakis was Power for eight years, and they kept she told me that we do not work on los. Despite the fact that I had to born in 1946, shortly after World promoting me. It was one of the Fridays. I asked them if the board of pass on his initial effort when we War II. His parents had left their most interesting periods in my ca- directors was aware of this practice, first met in 2004 to discuss his pro- homeland of Crete after the Nazis reer, because it was then that I real- and I confirmed for myself that no posal, because our university was bombed their home and his father's ized that working by yourself as a one had any idea about this. We had concentrating its efforts on building medical office in Chania. "My father civil engineer can be profitable for one thousand employees and facul- a law school, he did not give up. We decided we should go to Athens, the company you are working for; ty members working for us back met again in the winter of 2007, where his sisters were living, so he but only up to a point. However, then. I told them that if they were during a meeting of the Greek Or- could start his career all over again when you are in charge of ten, or only going to work four days a week, thodox Archdiocese’s Leadership after the war. This was a difficult one hundred, or even one thousand I would be paying them 80 percent 100 in Florida, and I asked him how time, since my parents, my sister engineers there is a difference in of their salary. Needless to say, we his plans were going. I also told him Kathy and I were all living in my your worth to the company. And so I went back to a five-day work week,” that Drexel would be in a position to aunt's house in the Athens district of assembled a special team of engi- Dr. Papadakis said. discuss the proposal that summer. Papagou. My aunt was married to a neering specialists with doctorates Continuing, he noted that “I Sure enough, I traveled to Sacra- retired general named Pa- and fabulous resumes who did pio- brought over a Greek American Dr. Papadakis is knighted “Cavaliere Ufficiale” in the Order of Merit of mento in August 2007 and visited padourakis. My father began work- neering work in flood-control sys- named Anthony Kanaris from the Italian Republic – the highest award given by the President of the proposed site. As soon as I got ing as a doctor in Geraka and Aghia tems, hydroelectric power and cool- Cincinnati. He was an expert in fa- Italy. Standing alongside Dr. Papadakis who is receiving the medal, is there, I saw for myself just how Paraskevi, which were just villages ing systems for nuclear reactors. cility maintenance, and I knew we Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S. Servio Vento (left). great an idea it was. Ours is proba- at the time. Our family slowly began Everyone in Bechtel would look to were going to need him because no bly the largest and only other land to get back on its feet again, and we us whenever there was a problem, upkeep had been performed on any so we took the plunge.” $15 million that Drexel allocated for grant ever to be given to a U.S. uni- went to live in a home that my father and all of us managed to make note- building for ten years, and twenty As Dr. Papadakis explained, “no research in 1995 when I assumed versity, with the exception of Stam- built in Pangrati," he recalled. worthy careers for ourselves at the buildings were without air condi- other schools had shown any inter- the presidency and you will see the ford. The property is located in After graduating from the Ka- company,” he said. tioning. I told Anthony that if we did est back then. We had no idea about difference,” he remarked. Plaser County, 17 miles outside of not fix the problem with the air con- hospital management, and so we Dr. Papadakis also stressed that Sacramento. The initial plan called ditioners and next summer ended sought out partners. We found Van- all throughout his tenure Drexel has for us to sell 2,000 of the 4,500 up being as hot as that one – it was guard and the Tenet Healthcare Cor- built a new building each year. He acres we were going to receive for so bad that many professors were poration, which manages 120 hospi- noted that three more buildings are $100,000 an acre. This would help unable to conduct classes because of tals. Tenet took over the hospitals, being built this year as well. “After us secure the $200 million we the heat – then we were both going and we assumed the administration the medical school, we began think- would need to build a university. In to be out of a job.” of the medical school.” Of course, ing about the next step. In 2002, we the meanwhile, until the economy Dr. Papadakis said that “we need- Drexel’s President was quick to note formed the for-profit company and real estate market bounce back, ed about seven million dollars to re- that “all these things are easy to talk Drexel eLearning, Inc. (DeL), which and until we prepare ourselves for pair the air conditioners, and we did about, but difficult to achieve.” offers online college courses.” this next major step, we have decid- not even have a dime to our names. “By the end of September we Explaining more about Drexel’s ed to build an annex in the city of We met with Service Master and brought the matter to the universi- online division, Dr. Papadakis re- Sacramento. "Today, our depart- proposed that they cover the ex- ty board of directors, which consid- counted that "we started from ment in Sacramento which opened penses of replacing the air condi- ered the assumption of such re- scratch, but we hired the right mar- last month already has an enroll- tioning system, under the condition sponsibilities to be a quite difficult keting people. DeL's job is to attract ment of sixty students and is based that we would pay them 50 percent and risky move – especially now students to our university, and offer inside a very nice building. Our of the money we would save for our that Drexel was starting to move in them online classes from our various school there offers degrees in busi- electricity expenses over the next the right direction once again. We programs of study. These students ness management, education, and ten years. They reviewed our pro- did not give up, however. We went will never have to set foot inside our computer information systems. posal, considered it beneficial, and Next year we will add five more ma- installed 26 units worth seven mil- jors, and when the time comes we lion dollars. By April, we were ready will transfer our school to our new for the coming summer season.” campus." When asked what he considered Responding to a question on to be the most difficult step on the whether the economic crisis has af- road to restoring the university, Dr. fected Drexel University, Dr. Pa- Papadakis said that it was replacing padakis explained that it is not only the incapable and inefficient admin- personal investors who have suf- Drexel University’s President Dr. Papadakis is seen with the newly istration in the university. “During fered losses in recent months. Uni- elected President of the United States Barack Obama. my dinner with George Ross - Chair- versities have seen their invest- man of the Board of Directors at the ments shrink by almost 30 percent pakas School – a private school – Dr. Eight years later, Dr. Papadakis time, and a partner in Goldman and have sustained losses to their Papadakis was accepted into the Na- was recruited to be the Vice-Presi- Sachs – I explained to him that in dividends and endowment funds. tional Polytechnic University in dent of STS Consultants in Chicago order to make progress with the uni- "This is a negative development Athens. He studied civil engineering – one of the top 150 engineering de- versity we need more than a 10 per- and it poses a problem. Our admin- for five years and he set his mind to sign firms in the nation – and for cent improvement. We need a 100 istration is widely recognized for thinking about his future career. His nearly four years he headed-up the percent improvement, and I told the effective way in which it has next step was to go abroad so he Water Resources Division of the him that this was going to be impos- run the university, and we have could complete his graduate studies. company. His accomplishments sible with the current personnel. I never relied on our endowment Dr. Papadakis came to the United there included privatization of small informed him that I was planning on funds to bankroll our plans. Univer- States in 1969, and he often looks hydroelectric power plants in the firing 150 persons, starting with the sities like Harvard had 30 percent back at the circumstances during his early 1980s Vice-Presidents, Deans, and their as- of their budget coming from their arrival and laughs. "It was August, His next position was at Honey- sistants, so that we could make a endowments, and Yale as much as and I was carrying a suitcase in my well in Pasadena, California, as Vice- fresh start. He was shocked, and he 40 percent, but Drexel relied on its hand and a winter coat. Everyone President of its subsidiary Tetra asked me how I was going to be able endowment fund for only two per- was wondering what I was doing Tech. Dr. Papadakis was in charge of to run the university without all cent of its budget. You cannot run a holding a coat. It was just that it did 900 engineers, while handling a those people. I responded that we university on loans. We only bor- not fit inside my suitcase. I bought a wide variety of projects dealing with would be better off without them row money to build new facilities." cheap one-way ticket, and had to research on the management of wa- than with them.” Dr. Papadakis went on to add make stopovers in Luxembourg, Ire- ter resources as well as fiber optics Dr. Papadakis continued, saying that "the only setback is that it will land and New York. It took me two and their use in telecommunica- “having now received his approval, Drexel University President Dr. Constantine Papadakis, is seen to- now take us more time to regain the days to reach the U.S.," he added. tions. the catharsis of the university began gether with his wife Eliana and daughter Maria, during the latter’s funds that have been lost. Last year The University of Cincinnati, In 1985, Dr. Papadakis agreed to the following week, and most of the graduation from Drexel’s Bennett S. LeBow College of Business. we had a profit of 21 percent, while where Dr. Papadakis went to study take over Colorado State Universi- staff that stayed on were performing this year we posted a 30 percent after he was offered a scholarship ty's civil engineering department – two or three different jobs. I acted as to our creditors and explained to university. In 2002, we invested $4 loss. Our long-term goal is to build- and a research stipend, is also the then the second largest in the nation the university Comptroller, Provost, them that if we did not succeed in million in the program, and we up our endowment fund so it can place where he met the love of his and known for water resources re- and President for an entire nine persuading the board to follow our made back the money for the uni- cover eight percent to our operating life, Eliana Apostolides. The couple search. It was in Colorado that the months. We managed to save a lot of plan, Allegheny would be liquidat- versity in two years' time. DeL cur- budget. When I took over as Presi- met in Greece in the summer of couple’s daughter Maria was born, money this way, and although the ed. We explained to them that if we rently offers services to 13,000 stu- dent of Drexel University, our en- 1967, and she played a major role in who just graduated Drexel’s Busi- economic forecasts for the universi- partnered up with the Tenet dents, outside of the 22,000 stu- dowment fund had $90 million in Dr. Papadakis’ choice to go to the ness Management School. A year- ty were predicting losses in the mil- Healthcare Corporation, Drexel dents already enrolled in Drexel. principal, and today it has grown to University of Cincinnati for his Mas- and-a-half later he became Dean of lions, we managed to turn a profit would gain $400 million, of which Most the courses we offer are for $650 million. It is also worth men- ter’s Degree. University of Cincinnati College of right from the first year.” we would recommend that $350 Master's Degree programs, and they tioning that Drexel never instituted Around that time, the Environ- Engineering. At the time, Cincinnati According to Drexel University’s million be allocated to Allegheny’s are all exceptional; maybe even bet- cutbacks like Harvard and other uni- mental Protection Agency was en- University had experienced a prob- President, “we gradually managed creditors and the university keep ter than the ones we offer in our versities. In fact, we even gave facul- gaged in efforts to improve the envi- lem with the previous Dean, and its to fill all the vacant positions we $50 million. The latter would be of- classrooms. Fifteen hundred stu- ty members a four percent raise. ronment, because the United States engineering school had lost its com- had. However, when we hired fered to the university as a gift, be- dents graduated from our online Nevertheless, we must remain vigi- was facing a major problem back petitiveness. The university was someone we wanted them to have cause the board of directors be- program, and last year alone DeL lant and proceed with caution." Dr. then with pollution in lakes and looking for someone to come in and the necessary qualifications, and lieved that I would be occupied generated an income of $40 million. Papadakis also expressed his full rivers. The EPA was offering a great rectify the situation. we wanted someone in the univer- overseeing affairs in the medical Today, Drexel ranks as one of the ten confidence that Drexel will continue deal of funding to universities that During his tenure at Cincinnati sity to be very familiar with them. It school for at least two-and-a-half largest online universities in the its impressive progress. would conduct environmental re- University he increased the size of was a very difficult time, but we years, and as a result fundraising United States, and we are growing He also noted that Drexel has al- search, and Dr. Papadakis joined the the faculty from 94 to 170. He also managed to put together a very would suffer. They were also afraid at a rate of 25 percent per year." ready secured a loan for three large substantial research team at Cincin- commissioned the construction of good team. This team managed to that the medical school could run When asked to talk about the buildings, and that construction is nati University, which had a large re- an impressive research center, change the face of Drexel in a peri- the risk of losing up to $100 million next program he established, Dr. Pa- proceeding on the university Recre- search center located next to the which was designed by architect od of three short years. We raised a year.” padakis quickly cited the formation ation Center, a twenty-story dorm university. Michael Graves. Dr. Papadakis in- the number of incoming freshmen Dr. Papadakis explained that of a law school. Building on Drexel's which stands to be the nicest build- Dr. Papadakis’ graduate studies creased research contracts and from 900 to 1,500 in the first year when the board finally reached a de- strengths, in 2006 Dr. Papadakis ing on campus, complete with a focused on a mathematical model grants from $3 million to $25 mil- alone, and doubled that number by cision at four o’clock in the morning, spearheaded the creation of a view of all the landmarks in the for the design of sewers aimed at lion. His success in the areas of re- our second year. Subsequently, our he was in Tel Aviv following the ne- unique law school at Drexel Univer- heart of Philadelphia. Additionally, helping to prevent floods from rain- search and university administra- student population has grown by gotiations which led to the decision sity focused on intellectual property, work is progressing on Drexel's fall in urban areas. In the summer of tion paved the way for his appoint- one thousand persons each year. to grant Drexel the $50 million. health care, and entrepreneurship largest academic building – the Inte- 1971, Dr. Papadakis and Eliana ment to his current position, Presi- Drexel now has 22,000 students, “We had to let go of 800 faculty law and cooperative education, grated Sciences Building - which Apostolides both graduated with dent of Drexel University, on August and more importantly, we offer members, because at the time there making Drexel the first major re- will be the first academic building in Master’s degrees from Cincinnati 1, 1995. very high quality services.” were as many students at Allegheny search university to open a new law In Dr. Papadakis’ third year as University as there were professors. school in 25 years. university President in 1998, Drexel Since there was no way for the uni- "We figured that 60% of the na- assumed operation of the bankrupt versity to stay open with such a cost- tion’s top 100 universities have Allegheny University of the Health ly system, we kept only 400 faculty medical and law schools. They Law Firm Sciences, which was temporarily re- members. After completely revital- called us crazy for proposing that J O H N S P I R I D A K I S named MCP Hahnemann University, ized the university, we managed to Drexel establish a law school - espe- The Law Firm the Community Trusts and partnered with Tenet Health- eliminate all losses in two-and-a- cially in an area where there are al- care Corporation, which acquired half years and start turning a profit. ready five other law schools in oper- the University's seven hospitals. For the past eight years, the Drexel ation. We felt that a school specializ- ACCIDENTS-MEDICAL MALPRACTICE “This was the biggest financial fail- University College of Medicine, Col- ing in issues like health care and in- • Construction • Slip & Fall • Estates ure of a non-profit organization in lege of Nursing and Health Profes- tellectual property would attract • Car/Motor Vehicle • Divorces • Wrongfull deaths the history of the United States. Al- sions, and School of Public Health student interest and help us lay the Accidents • Wills • legheny owed $1.6 billion to 80,000 has been making a profit, and is groundwork for a law school that Also cases in Greece creditors. If a solution was not found widely heralded as one of the top would be different from all the other on November 11, 1998, the univer- medical schools in the United ones. As a result, we enjoyed success Free consultations • Home & Hospital visits • 24 Hours • 7 Days sity’s assets would have been liqui- States. Our College of Medicine also not only in 2006, but in all the years dated, 8,000 employees would have the largest private medical school in that followed as well. We receive Legal expenses are payable lost their jobs, and the city of the country, with a student body of 2,500 student applications for every Mr. Spiridakis at the conclusion of the case Philadelphia would have had a huge 1,200 persons,” Dr. Papadakis said. new program that we add, and we and his colleagues crisis on its hands. The two institu- In regards to the capital that he can only select 140 students. Obvi- have successfully “To recieve our care for your case” tions reached out to us through a has secured for Drexel University’s ously, this says a lot about the ex- won over $50 million [email protected] • www.lawhelp1.com friend of mine named Emmanuel research activities, Dr. Papadakis tremely high caliber of students that for clients Stamatakis, and they proposed that said that there is a $55 million en- attend the Earle Mack School of Law Call at (212) 768-8088 or (718) 204-8600

Drexel buy out the entire university. dowment for the medical school and at Drexel, due to the great demand a b the past 24 years FREE TELEPHONE 1-888-SPIRIDA (774-7432) We considered this to be a one-of-a- another $55 million for the rest of that exists in the areas we specialize kind opportunity for Drexel Univer- Drexel’s schools. “All you have to do in," Drexel’s President noted. OFFICES: Manhattan, Queens (Astoria), Brooklyn, Long Island, LICENSED: New York, New Jersey sity to acquire a medical school, and is compare today’s figures with the Dr. Papadakis also forecasted 6 EDUCATION THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 Hellenic Education in America: Schools Must Fend for Themselves

By Evan C. Lambrou other aspects to education. Teach- “The community contacted me, follow up on how many of our kids 30 students (only up to 2nd grade) Special to The National Herald ers have room to be creative, and a so I paid a visit to the church and go to college since I started, but col- and Annunciation Orthodox School lot depends on the individual needs the school, and I decided to accept lege is definitely the objective for in Houston, which is actually the NEW YORK – In interviewing sev- of each child. We’re interested in the position. I just thought it was a most of them. As far as the high largest school in the Archdiocese eral principals throughout the cultivating the whole child,” she great place to be, and I wanted to schools the kids are going to, they parochial system. Archdiocese parochial school sys- said. help the community,” he said. all seem to be getting into the Mark Kelly, an Episcopalian who tem, the National Herald has “We’re a small school, but we Greek-language instruction is schools they want to attend. In the is originally from Boston, has been learned that each school adheres to have an honors English program required for all grades, including Bay Ridge area, for example, there principal of AOS for 13 years. The its respective state education re- for our junior high kids; we have an pre-K, at DGK which is trying to are a couple of Catholic high school’s current enrollment is 672, quirements; that each enjoys a high after-school math lab for kids who make a stronger effort to help its schools the kids go to, and there’s Mr. Kelly said, slightly higher than rate of success in terms of placing need to reinforce their math skills; students achieve greater fluency in an admission exam for that,” he the 2005-06 academic year, which its eighth grade graduates in presti- and this is at no extra cost to the Greek. said. the Archdiocese website had listed gious high schools; and that each parents. We’re also starting a dra- “There are no separate periods “There are also a couple of pri- at 665. has its own approach to teaching ma club, and we have a volleyball for conversational Greek, but we’re vate schools like Staten Island “And that’s pretty much maxed the Greek language and Orthodox team. And because of today’s tech- trying to emphasize that more in Academy, and our kids have been out. We’ve had a few more than Christian religious studies. nology demands, we offer comput- the existing Greek classes because accepted there. And Ford Hamil- that in the past, but not intentional- Each school also has its own tu- er classes, as well. It’s a lot for a that’s what the community was ask- ton, which is a public high school ly. Our average class size for the ition rate, and operating budgets young child to handle,” she added. ing for. The 8th grade students take just two blocks from here, has a lower school (grades K-4) is 20 stu- vary from $500 thousand to $11 GAI measures up well in terms the New York State Regents exam great honors program, and our kids dents per class; for the middle million. All the principals inter- of test scores, Ms. Prokop said, a (in Greek), and our kids do well, in regularly get in there. Last year, we school (grades 5-8), we have 17-18 viewed observed that funding is a number of its graduates end up go- that they can read and answer had 12 kids who got into Ford students per class. And that’s where constant challenge. None of their ing to some of the area’s most pres- questions on the exam. But one of Hamilton, and half of them entered we like to keep it, if possible,” Mr. schools receive any funding from tigious schools. the problems they were having was the honors program,” he added. Kelly told the Herald. the Archdiocese, they said. “From last year’s 8th grade, holding an actual conversation in There are three more Greek Roughly 13 percent (less than Last week’s story featured inter- many now attend Iona Prep and the Greek at home. That’s why we’re schools in Brooklyn: Argyrios Fan- 90) of AOS’s students are baptized views with the principals of Koraes Ursuline School (in New Rochelle); trying to emphasize the oral aspect tis, Soterios Ellenas and Three Hi- Greek Orthodox, he said, and most Elementary School in the Chicago Fordham Prep; Preston and Sale- of it now,” Mr. Spyliopoulos said. erarchs Parochial Schools. Soterios of the Greek Orthodox kids come area, and St. John Greek Orthodox sian High Schools (in the Bronx The curriculum also gives DGK Ellenas is now a charter school. from families who are members of Day School in Tampa, where Span- and New Rochelle, respectively); students an opportunity to learn Asked whether there has been any the Annunciation Cathedral in ish is taught, but where Greek has and four got into Bronx Science,” Ancient Greek history and mythol- talk of merging the schools in Houston. Students come to AOS not been offered for 15 years or ogy and Modern Greek history, he Brooklyn, Mr. Spyliopoulos said the Ann Prokop, principal, Greek from throughout the Houston area, more. said, although no separate courses subject has been discussed by each American Institute in the Bronx. he said, but most of the kids – some This week, the Herald is pre- are offered for those subjects. of the schools in the past, “but after 85 percent of them – live within 3-5 senting interviews with two princi- That’s done by osmosis: further review, they all felt they Greek among parents, she ex- miles of the school. Parents drop pals from New York, as well as one Students learn their Greek by wanted to keep their schools as in- plained, because some parents their kids off in the morning, or with a principal in California and a learning about Greek history, geog- dividual community schools, rather don’t know their Greek, and they they walk to school. fourth with a principal in Texas. raphy and mythology, and they than become one larger, general can’t help their children with AOS has 80 faculty members, 77 GAI: THE BRONX learn about the other subjects school.” homework, but there is no overall of whom are fulltime teachers. Sev- The Archdiocese lists 11 while learning their Greek, he said. He also said all of the Archdio- resistance to it. “For the most part, en teachers are of Greek heritage, parochial schools in the New York Greek mythology is particularly cese parochial school principals in it hasn’t been a problem. People un- and two of them teach Greek. The metropolitan area. Founded in popular. New York meet once a month to ex- derstand that Greek is part of the rest of the faculty is neither Greek 1912, the Greek American Institute “The Greek language is taught change ideas and information and program here,” she said. nor Orthodox. in the Bronx is the oldest Greek through history, geography, plan events together, citing an an- Orthodox religious instruction is AOS also has 37 administration American school in the tri-state mythology and subjects of that na- nual professional development also offered two days a week, Ms. and staff people, three of whom are area of New York, New Jersey and ture. Mythology is actually some- conference as an example. Kamenos said. Two teachers on the of Greek heritage. Tuition is Connecticut. thing we’ve gotten into quite a bit CALIFORNIA staff teach religion; one is a part- $14,900 for the older kids (grades Anne Prokop has been principal more these last couple of years be- In California, there are two time layperson; the other is a full- 5-8); $13,200 for the younger kids at GAI for the last six years. Accord- cause we’ve found that the kids re- Greek schools listed: Holy Trinity time faculty member; and Rev. (grades 1-4); and $12,700 for pre- ing to information just posted on ally seem to enjoy it,” Mr. Orthodox School in San Francisco Robert Fox, assistant pastor of K and kindergarten students. the Archdiocese website Spyliopoulos said. and St. Nicholas School in North- Saint Nicholas Church, teaches two AOS teacher salaries range from (www.goarch.org) this past Orthodox religious instruction is ridge. Helen Kamenos has been 7th grade classes. $40,000 to $65,000, Mr. Kelly said, Wednesday morning, February 4, taught by the Very Rev. Gerasimos principal of Saint Nicholas School, “All our students are required to and the school’s 2008-09 operating GAI’s 2008-09 enrollment is listed Makris, pastor of Holy Cross the larger of the two, for the last take those classes and participate. budget is $11 million, 89 percent of at 155 students (up from 141 just a Church, who meets with each indi- four years. We’re also trying to upgrade the which is generated by tuition. few years ago), but Ms. Prokop told vidual grade one period a week. The Archdiocese lists St. program. We purchased new mate- Asked why AOS, which started the Herald enrollment is actually Morning prayers are also part of Nicholas School’s 2006-07 enroll- rials this year, so the children can out as a school for Greek Orthodox “just shy of 200.” the daily regimen. The students ment at 263 kids. Currently, Ms. Ka- get more out of it,” she said, adding children, has become less so over GAI has 25 teachers, 12 of gather as a group in the auditorium menos told the Herald, enrollment that Ancient and Modern Greek time, Mr. Kelly said the school is whom are fulltime faculty, and sev- each morning; say a prayer; and is at 241, about half of whom are history are taught to the upper still associated with the cathedral, en of whom are of Greek heritage. then start classes. Greek Orthodox, and the other half grades (5-8) through the school’s but the two are now distinct corpo- Teacher salaries, from lowest to In addition to a foreign lan- a mixture of non-Greek and non- Greek and religion classes. rate entities. highest, are between $25,000 and Mark Kelly, principal, Annuncia- guage (Greek) and religion, DGK Orthodox students. Non-Orthodox “We do tend to attract people “The time that changed was dur- $42,000. “Our teacher salaries, un- tion Orthodox School, Houston. also offers mathematics, science, students comprise 40 percent of the who would like to have religious ing its first few years. It was partly fortunately, are pathetic. Funding is English, Social Studies, art and mu- student body, she said, and most of education for their children. It’s not by design, and partly by numbers, always a struggle,” she said. she said. sic. the students live in the immediate important to them that the school is but probably more by design. Al- Tuition varies, she said. If stu- Overall, most GAI students are “What’s most special about our area, although some commute. Greek Orthodox. It’s important that though the church founded the dents are children from families college-minded, she added, esti- school, I think, is the well-rounded St. Nicholas School has 23 it’s Christian,” she said. school and it was a ministry of the who are members of Zoodochos mating that at least 75 percent of education our kids receive here. teachers, she said, 21 of whom are Saint Nicholas School students church, we haven’t been under the Peghe (Life-Giving Spring) Church them end up going to college, and Not only do we offer the core sub- fulltime, with almost half being of gather together each morning for church’s umbrella for 20-some- in the Bronx or baptized Orthodox, basing that estimate on conversa- jects required by New York State, Greek heritage. Teacher salaries the National Anthem, Pledge to the thing years now. It was also the it’s a little less. But the average tu- tions with parents and kids after we also offer a foreign language, range between $30,000 and Flag and a prayer before classes church’s idea: ‘You’re becoming a ition is $5,000 per child. The over- they graduate. physical education, a computer $40,000. Tuition is $5,650 per commence. bigger entity. Yes, we want to keep all operations budget is approxi- “There’s no other place like our technology class that produces the month for children whose families “We’re a very academically ori- our affiliation with you. But you’re mately $800 thousand. Tuition school, and I say that from the bot- school newspaper, dance classes are members of Saint Nicholas ented school, so we’re very de- outgrowing us, so you really need aside, Zoodochos Peghe is the pri- tom of my heart. We have a very and art. We even have music. So in Church and $5,950 for non-mem- manding in that sense. We try to to do your thing.’ I think their vi- mary supporter of the school. nurturing and loving environment. addition to the standard academic bers. Ms. Kamenos would not dis- help our students develop their sion was to have a good private Before she became principal, It’s very family-oriented. That’s the classes, when our kids leave here, close the school’s operating budget, school from the Greek Orthodox Ms. Prokop also taught at GAI, and kind of atmosphere we have tried they’ve also been exposed to the but said that tuition excluded, the perspective, but one that wasn’t has been a member of its faculty to create. And any time a kid does performing arts. When they move Saint Nicholas Church community just for members of the Greek Or- and administration for more than something good, we try to reward onto high school, all of that is fa- supports the school. thodox Church,” he said. 25 years. She is originally from As- the good behavior. There’s a high miliar to them. They’re not seeing Enrollment has declined and the The cathedral is still very active toria, and attended St. Demetrios level of respect, but they’re not things for the first time,” Mr. school lost three teachers due to in raising money for the school, he Greek American School when she afraid of their principal or their Spyliopoulos said. harsh economic conditions, she ex- explained, and contributes to the was in elementary school. She is a teachers,” she said. “Our challenges are more finan- plained. After-school programs scholarship fund based on how well graduate of Queens College and St. DGK: BROOKLYN cial than anything else. We’ve got have also been cut. its Greek festival goes each fall. The John’s University, where she Marc Spyliopoulos, himself a terrific teachers and phenomenal “This year has been very tough. local Philoptochos also donates earned her bachelor’s and master’s graduate of GAI, has been principal kids. Enrollment has gone up. But Families are struggling in many $1,000 annually to the Greek Or- degrees, respectively. of the Demetrios & Georgia it’s not as high as we would like. It cases, so among the first things that thodox scholarship endowment While enrollment at GAI has in- Kaloidis Parochial School of Holy needs to go up more so that the seem to have been cut back are our fund, which is reserved primarily creased over time, she said, it has Cross Church in Brooklyn for three school can become a little more after-school activities. We’ve expe- for Greek Orthodox students, and actually decreased since the begin- years. There are currently 187 stu- self-sufficient. Economic freedom rienced some reduction in enroll- which has around $180,000 in its ning of the current academic year, dents enrolled at the school, he told aside, it’s so much nicer to have ment because of the economy, but reserves. when it was a little more than 200. the Herald. More than 90 percent classes with 15-18 kids, where also because we have a lot of com- Before he came to AOS, Mr. Kel- Five kids were pulled out because of DGK’s students are Greek Ortho- there’s a lot of teacher-student in- petitors in out market. Students ly was principal of a middle school of the economy, she said, as some dox kids, and most of them are chil- teraction and more communication have other options – public schools in New Orleans. He succeeded parents lost their jobs. dren from families who are mem- between the kids themselves, and charter schools – that parents AOS’ founding principal of 25 GAI started out as a 100-percent bers of Holy Cross Church in Brook- rather than smaller classes. If a have looked into. Just this past years, Catherine Veletsos, and ap- Greek school, she said, but demo- lyn. class is too small, it’s no good, and year, we’ve had a number of par- plied for the job at the urging of his graphics have changed over the last There is a provision in Holy if it’s too big, it’s no good. So we’re ents who told us they had to leave niece, Megan Becker, who was a ten years. She now estimates the Cross’s bylaws which stipulates shooting for 15-18 kids per class,” because of financial reasons. Sever- student at AOS during her 8th student body to be 55 percent that up to 10 percent of the school’s he added. al parents pulled out a child and grade year. “AOS was conducting a Greek and 45 percent non-Greek. A students can be non-Greek Ortho- DGK’s average class size placed their child in the public national search; she knew I was significant portion of the non- dox, Mr. Spyliopoulos told the Her- presently is 9-10 students in the up- school system,” she said. looking; and she thought it was the Greek students are Albanian, Russ- ald. per grades, and 15-16 in kinder- “Funding is always a challenge. right fit for me,” he said chuckling. ian and Ukrainian, most of whom “That was the way the school garten and 1st grade, Mr. We try to hold all kinds of fundrais- AOS offers Greek, he said, “They are Orthodox Christians, but there was set up when it was established Spyliopoulos said. “That’s where ers to make ends meet and pur- get basic Greek from preschool are also a few Jewish and Roman 25 years ago. The parish wanted to we’ve seen our growth – in the low- chase the things we need. But the through 5th grade – songs, poetry, Catholic students. open its doors to the wider commu- er grades – and we’re hoping that school has struggled to meet is bud- Marc Spyliopoulos, principal, D. the Greek National Anthem – so The school primarily serves the nity. To my knowledge, we’ve never growth continues.” getary needs because enrollment & G. Kaloidis School in Brooklyn. they learn a fair amount. But we’re immediate area, although some turned any kids away. But if we Mr. and Mrs. Kaloidis, among has gradually declined. There used not shooting for proficiency. In the kids also come from as far as needed to exceed ten percent, we the Greek American community’s to be two classes per grade, but as study habits, and we expect them 6th grade, it becomes more etymol- Westchester, Flushing and Bayside, would have to amend the bylaws,” most beloved members, remain ac- some classes diminished in size, to do their homework. But there is ogy-based, so it’s really tied in with she said. he said. tive and generous benefactors of they had to be merged, and one always that balance between extra- English at that point.” Because of Greek-language classes are All students live within walking Holy Cross Church and the school teacher had to be released. Two curricular activities and academics. Houston’s large Hispanic popula- mandatory at GAI, as are Ancient distance or a short bus ride of DGK, which bears their name, he said, others might have been laid off, but We’re very much on the go, so it can tion, he said, AOS teaches Spanish, and Modern Greek history, even for which offers bus service to 17 kids, and fund three full scholarships a they resigned because they had to be difficult for the kids to balance too. those students who are not of he added. year, among many other contribu- relocate,” she added. their activities,” Ms. Kamenos said, Orthodox religious instruction is Greek heritage, Ms. Prokop said, Tuition is $5,400 a year, he said, tions over the years. The Holy Cross The one bright spot: an increase noting that the school has adapted also offered, he added. “The way adding that the approach is differ- estimating DGK’s operating budget community also continues to sup- in pre-school enrollment, and a to the computer age. we do that is, we teach religion ent for children who come from at approximately $1.3 million. The port the school. new pre-school teacher has been “We have become more technol- from the Greek Orthodox perspec- Greek-speaking homes. school has 20 teachers, 18 of them “Mr. and Mrs. Kaloidis are terrif- hired. ogy-oriented. We have a computer tive, but we don’t proselytize, and “We offer different segments: fulltime, and 13 of whom are of ic. They’re very generous and very Ms. Kamenos is originally from lab. Αs a matter of fact, we’re in the we try to be inclusive of all faiths.” Greek for children who come from Greek heritage. Four teach Greek loving people. We try not to call on Cleveland, Ohio. Her mother was process of raising money to up- The Lord’s Prayer is recited each Greek-speaking homes, and Greek classes, and teacher salaries range them too much, and we would like born in Greece, and her father was grade it,” she said, adding that morning, usually led by a student, as a foreign language. Both are re- from $30,000 to $40,000. to become less reliant on them be- born in the United States, but Saint Nicholas School emphasizes and two prayer services are held in quired,” she said. Mr. Spyliopoulos retired from cause they’ve done so much as it is. raised in Greece. Both parents hail family values and has high academ- the chapel every Thursday, usually The Very Rev. Sylvester Berberis, the New York City Board of Educa- But tuition doesn’t nearly cover the from the island of Lesbos. Ms. Ka- ic standards. officiated by a Greek Orthodox pastor of Zoodochos Peghe, teaches tion after 33 years, the last six of school’s expenses, so they regularly menos also has one sister and two “We also have a very family-ori- priest, he said. A third chapel ser- religion classes to all grades once a which he served as principal of a step in to help us meet our needs,” brothers. Her family moved to Cali- ented environment. Children enjoy vice, which is led by a lay religion week, she said – every Thursday, middle school in Brooklyn. He Mr. Spyliopoulos said. fornia when she was still in high a unique experience here, and after teacher, is held on Mondays for pre- one period for each grade. started out as a teacher – he taught “Last year, for example, we school, and she earned her bache- they graduate, they have a huge K and kindergarten students. During her 25 years with GAI, for 15 years – and then worked as needed a $12,000 roof installed lor’s degree at California State Uni- tendency to stay in touch with us, AOS is special, Mr. Kelly said, Ms. Prokop said she has seen sever- an assistant principal for 12 more over one of the sections, so we tried versity in Northridge. no matter how many years have because there is a very strong con- al logistical changes, with a push years. He is originally from the to figure out ways of raising money Ms. Kamenos has been with St. gone by. And our academic stan- nection between the adults and the for smaller class sizes and greater Bronx, and his family went to for that, and asked for bids from Nicholas School for 19 years. Be- dards – we’re probably one of the kids, and it has a genuine family at- focus on the individual needs of church at Zoodochos Peghe. After different contractors. When Mr. fore she became its principal, she best schools in the Valley when it mosphere which is “both challeng- each child. graduating from GAI, he completed Kaloidis caught wind of it, he said, taught the 6th grade (all subjects) comes to academic achievement. ing and nurturing.” “When I first started teaching, it high school at Brooklyn Tech, and ‘What are you doing? Get the roof for eight years, and then taught his- Our kids do very well on national AOS graduates are college- was not unusual to have 30-35 chil- then earned his bachelor’s degree done, and here’s the money.’ The tory and physical education to mid- tests, and at least a third of our stu- minded and enjoy a high accep- dren in a single class. Now, we’re at Hunter College. He also has two parish has also been very generous dle-schoolers for another seven dents enter honors programs at tance rate (60-75 percent) at pri- capping it at 22. Now, I have some master’s degrees, one from New in trying to cover what tuition does- years. various high schools after they vate high schools, particularly at of my former students’ kids coming York University, and another from n’t cover,” he added. She told the Herald that the leave us, so they tend to do very Catholic schools, he added. Others here. Also, there’s such a huge em- Brooklyn College. While DGK has no statistics on teaching of Greek has been kept well. Pretty much 100 percent of go onto public schools afterwards, phasis on testing these days,” she Asked why, after retiring from what percentage of its graduates pretty steady over time. Greek is in- our students clearly indicate that and many go to college after they said. NYC’s public school system, he de- end up going to college, Mr. cluded in the curriculum, starting going to college is in their future finish high school: “Parents certainly look at our cided to become principal of a Spyliopoulos said, DGK kids are in kindergarten, and depending on plans,” she said. “We’re well represented at SMU, scores when they are trying to de- small Greek Orthodox parochial generally college-minded, and are the grade level, is offered two or TEXAS AOS Baylor and Texas A&M. And six cide whether or not to enroll their school, Mr. Spyliopoulos said he regularly admitted to the area’s three days a week. There are no ex- There are also two parochial kids from our 2004 graduating children here, and that’s a big plus wanted to lend his experience to best high schools. tra conversational periods offered. schools in Texas: Holy Trinity Acad- class are now in Ivy League for us. But we want to emphasize DGK’s mission. “I haven’t had a chance to really There is some frustration about emy in Dallas, which has less than schools.” THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 COMMUNITY 7 Church Feud Ends in Conviction for Parishioner

Continued from page 1 improprieties? der against him. He went back to TNH: Did Fr. Bakakos do that? count, as you admitted a minute EP: There was very credible evi- church and the police arrested him. JA: No, No. ago, but you threw out the faithful Ashford, was not aware of these ac- dence that there were TNH: Why did you transfer Fr. TNH: How do you justify the who were asking questions about counts. TNH: Who initiated the banning Bakakos? fact that sums of $20,000-$25,000 the finances of the church? On March 16, 2005 the treasur- from the church? Demetrios: He requested the were moving through that ac- JA: Fr. Bakakos had told me that er went to the church office to ask EP: The priest along with the transfer. This climate caused him to count? everything was okay. He did not Rev. Bakakos about the accounts parish council voted for it. suffer a heart attack. It was terrible. JA: There is a pious and gener- have a problem with the parish and transactions. TNH: How do you feel about He was transferred to the Assump- ous lady who cooperated with Fr. council. I repeat that some small The treasurer was informed by your priest? Do you feel that Christ tion parish. We didn’t cover any- Bakakos and she made from time to mistakes were made. Fr. Timothy is the bank that she could no longer would have done the same thing? thing; it was all in the open. time huge donations for various not a thief. He is a faithful and pi- get any information for the Junior EP: No. As Orthodox Christians TNH: Fr. Artemas was appoint- purposes. I checked that instance ous priest of the Church and those GOYA, Senior GOYA, Athletic Fund we believe that the church is God’s ed to clean up the situation, and he myself and I discovered that she persons created problems for him. and PTO accounts, because these House and we are all the Body of did. Order was restored, but they had given a lot of money which Fr. TNH: How do you feel now that accounts were under the control of Christ, the priest and the laymen. continue to press him. Bakakos for reasons of convenience your parishioner was convicted and Father Bakakos. The bank could TNH: Did you notify Metropoli- When Fr. Artemas sent him the deposited into the GOYA account he is going to jail? not release any information about tan Iakovos of Chicago about the fi- letter chasing him from the church and used it to make payments. JA: He is not going to jail, and I these accounts without Father nances of St. Nicholas? was he acting on your behalf, or on They purchased new chairs that do not want him to go to jail. Bakakos’ expressed permission. EP: Yes, he was very aware of it. behalf of the Metropolis? cost many thousands of dollars. TNH: The guidelines provide Later, she discovered that Fr. The Metropolis issued the audit re- Demetrios: No, no. Absolutely TNH: Why did Fr. Bakakos de- just that, one-year jail time. Bakakos had gone to the bank on Fr. John Artemas had a parish- port and to them it brought the not. posit the donation of that lady into JA: I do not believe it is going to March 17, 2005 and had closed the ioner arrested for trespassing. matter to a close. They told me to TNH: Why did he do that? the GOYA account and not into the happen. Junior GOYA and Senior GOYA ac- accept it and I said no because it is Demetrios: That I do not know, regular accounts of the parish? TNH: How do you know? counts. concerned parishioners sent a copy misleading. you have to ask him. I do not think JA: It is a good question. I would JA: I will talk to the attorney The treasurer notified the Me- of the audit report to the parish- TNH: Are you ready to serve one that Papadopoulos will go to jail. say that it was a mistake of Fr. general and tell him that I prefer tropolis of Chicago and specifically ioners of Saint Nicholas. year in prison? He will get some fine. Bakakos. It would be better to de- that he doesn’t go to prison. the chancellor then-Archimandrite On July 25, 2006, the Metropo- EP: Some people told me you TNH: Why you have allowed Fr. posit the money into the parish’s TNH: How did you feel a few Demetris Kantzavelos, today Bish- lis Oversight and Audit Committee are going to get arrested if you go Artemas to put this faithful person account. But he probably did it out days ago as a priest and human be- op Demetrios of Mokisos. sent a letter to Saint Nicholas to church and I told them the in prison? of carelessness. But the money that ing, seeing a parishioner of yours In May 2005, Archimandrite parishioners with the results of the church is for everybody, it is God’s Demetrios: He was disrupting was deposited in that account was convicted and going to jail? Is this Bakakos, parish council president 2005 Audit that they performed. House, and it is open to all sinners the Services and the peace of the the mission of a priest? Paul Pitsoulakis and Ms. Searl met They said some errors were found and especially we go to church to parish. I am not saying that I agree JA: I feel deep sadness. to discuss the Junior and Senior but this matter is now closed. repent. with him (Fr. Artemas), but simply TNH: Did you regret it? GOYA accounts. Ms. Searl told On June 5, 2007, the Parish TNH: Did you go to church to I do not think he will go to jail. I JA: No, because it is one thing to them that she needed to notify the Council voted to ban six parish- create any problems for the priest knew he was found guilty. I do not disagree, and another thing to raise Parish Council about the accounts ioners from the church including or the parish council? know. Call Fr. Artemas. We finished a protest. They had to be cornered, and their activities. the treasurer. Fr. Artemas attempt- EP: No I went to pray and to a year ago, we did not find any- but on the other hand I leave the On May 18, 2005, at a Parish ed many times to convince the six worship. thing wrong. door of repentance open. I em- Council meeting, the treasurer was members to stop their inquiry and TNH: Did you speak to Fr. Rev. John Artemas granted the braced Mr. Papadopoulos at the not allowed to finish her treasurer’s accept the audit report of the Me- Artemas after the trial? Herald the following interview: end and I told him come to see me. report describing her discovery. tropolis, but they declined. EP: We spoke a little and I said TNH: Why did you throw Mr. I have no regrets. In June 2005, she sent a letter to On June 7, 2007, Rev. Artemas Father this is a sad day, he agreed Papadopoulos out of the church TNH: What do you think that Father Demetris Kantzavelos, sent a letter to all six, including Ms. and he said “it is a tragic day, please and he is now on his way to jail? Christ would have done in your po- Chancellor of the Metropolis of Searl and Mr. Papadopoulos throw- call me.” A reporter asked me if I John Artemas: The issue start- sition? Chicago, describing what had hap- ing them out of the church. Rev. am open to reconciliation and I said ed before I came here. When I came JA: What did he do at the temple pened so far this year and asking Artemas had written among other I am always open to reconciliation. three years ago I found problems. who overturned the tables of those for help and guidance. things that “with the approval of The father says do not disrespect Some had caused problems to my who were selling merchandise? On July 2, 2005, a petition cir- our Holy Metropolis, and by deci- the Metropolis. I do not disrespect predecessor. He has suffered a TNH: What are you talking culated by concerned stewards ask- sion of our Parish Council, all six of the Metropolis when I am asking heart attack and he requested to be about? Those had turned the house ing for a special parish assembly to you are hereby directed to stay questions about the finances. transferred. Some people thought of God into a market place. Here address the allegations made by the away from St. Nicholas Church and The Herald also had the follow- that the finances were not all right. your parishioners were asking treasurer. its entire building complex, and ing conversation with Metropolitan They had caused problems. His Em- questions about the finances. On July 7, 2005, the treasurer from any and all services and func- Iakovos of Chicago: inence (Iakovos) had sent his JA: They did it disrespectfully. sent a second letter to the Chancel- tions that are held here, as well as TNH: What is going on at the St. Chancellor who took part in the Emmanuel Papadopoulos was TNH: Did they insult you, or the lor, since she did not get a response any functions of St. Nicholas that Nicholas parish in Oak Lawn? Why general assembly. He attempted to found guilty of trespassing. faith, or the parish? to her first letter. The second letter may be held elsewhere. Your pres- will Mr. Papadopoulos be going to calm things down; they were ask- JA: When they accused the had more details regarding finan- ence continues to upset a large prison? ing to have an certified audit. The used for the purpose that they were priest that he was a thief; that he cial irregularities and other ques- number of our loyal parishioners. Metropolitan Iakovos: Why are general assembly felt it was neces- given. left with $100,000? Do you know tionable activities. Furthermore, you no longer belong you going to report it? sary. They believed the report of the TNH: Then why did you throw that we have lost more than fifty On August 4, 2005, a meeting to this "Church Family." TNH: In order to inform our audit committee would be suffi- Mr. Papadopoulos out of the families? took place at the Metropolis to ad- In another instance, Rev. Greek American Community that cient. The Metropolis has sent rep- church? TNH: Does the GOYA account dress allegations by the Ms. Searl. Artemas wrote in his letter “one fi- you chase away the faithful from resentatives to assist in the audit. I JA: First of all I did not do it and its transactions, as you have Father Kantzavelos, Father nal but very important point: With the church. came on April 1, 2006. The audit alone. Whatever I did, I did it al- admitted, raise questions that these Bakakos, Ms. Searl, Mr. Pitsoulakis patience and forbearance, our Holy Iakovos: I do not know these showed that everything was ok; ways in consultation with the Me- individuals had the right to ask? and, Bill Vranas were present. Metropolis thus far has refrained things; you should speak with Bish- there were some little mistakes, but tropolis, the general assembly and JA: I have studied the issue. The On September 14, 2005, Ms. from restricting or prohibiting you op Demetrios of Mokisos because not the misappropriations of funds the parish council. main enemy is Satan. Searl was removed from the Parish from attending other Greek Ortho- he was involved with the police. that they alleged. TNH: I just spoke with Chancel- TNH: Satan is not driving Mr. Council after a letter was sent by dox parishes. But you should re- Bishop Demetrios of Mokisos TNH: Why are there existing lor Demetrios Kantzavelos who Papadopoulos to prison, but you Metropolitan Iakovos. member that you continue to be granted the following interview to GOYA accounts managed by Fr. told me that you were not given the are. On December 11, 2005, a parish "not in good standing" and not "in the Herald: Timothy Bakakos? order or the consent to ban the man JA: If it is necessary it should be assembly took place which was at- Communion" with our Holy Ortho- TNH: What is going on with Mr. JA: What you are saying shows from his church. done, because we have forgotten tended by about 200 people. Chan- dox Church. If you choose to partic- Emmanuel Papadopoulos who that you have spoken with others JA: I am sorry that the issue will the discipline and everyone does as cellor Kantzavelos chaired the ipate in the Holy Sacraments, with- might be going to prison because too. The treasurer of the parish come to that, but what can we do? he pleases. I believe that he has meeting. A new Board of Auditors out Repentance and Confession, you threw him out of the church council did not know about things. TNH: Why did you throw the psychological and spiritual prob- was elected to audit the 2005 fi- you should know that you are plac- and had him arrested for trespass- Our enemy is nobody else but Sa- man out of his church? lems and I feel sorry for him. He nancial records. The new auditors ing your souls in jeopardy.” ing? tan. She thought that in her respon- JA: I sent the letter in consulta- has a complex of chasing and the were: Richard Bode, Nicholas The letter was signed by Rev. Bishop Demetrios: I do not sibility she had to examine every- tion with the Metropolis and I told complex of martyr. Paramboukas, Dr. Chris Sarlas, John Artemas and parish council know if he will go to jail. I did not thing. She went to the bank and them that since they do not submit TNH: Is your statement about Glynn Searl, and Goldie Xirafakis. president George Sinadinos. ban him, the parish did. It was a found that besides the basic ac- to the final decision of the Metrop- psychological problems for on the The IRS was notified by parish- On February 17, 2008, while Mr. group of about five individuals who counts of the parish council there olis we proclaim them in non-good record? ioners. Papadopoulos was lighting a can- expressed allegations against were other accounts too, and surely standing with the Church and they JA: Yes I would not hesitate to February 26, 2006, was the last dle for his aunt’s 40-day memorial Bakakos that he stole $580,000 there were. There were the ac- have no rights until they repent and say it. Sunday at the church for Archi- service when the police arrived and which is not true. We formed an au- counts of GOYA, Senior GOYA, Ath- accept the decisions of the Metrop- TNH: What is your opinion of mandrite Bakakos, who was trans- arrested him in the church. dit committee and one of them, Ms. letics, Choir, Gift Shop, all these olis. the pedophile priests? ferred to the Assumption Parish in Mr. Papadopoulos granted the Searl, signed that they did not find small accounts that the parish TNH: By what right did you do JA: The Archdiocese should not Chicago. following interview to The Nation- anything. They took Bakakos to council knew about. that? cover up these things. As soon as Lawsuits were filled on behalf of al Herald: court and they lost. They went to TNH: Who was managing those JA: With the right of responsibil- the pedophilia is revealed the pe- Rev. Bakakos and counter lawsuits TNH: How did you feel that the IRS which dismissed the case. It accounts? ity as a chief priest and shepherd in dophile should leave from the from a group of parishioners, your priest and your parish threw was all lies. Some of them left the JA: The heads of the choir; the order to protect my flock I had to Church. among which was Emmanuel Pa- you out of the church? parish. One of them, Papadopou- Sunday School. The GOYA account discipline those people. TNH: What is you opinion about padopoulos. Emmanuel Papadopoulos: I los, went to the attorney general was managed by Fr. Timothy TNH: If tomorrow 100 congre- Archbishop Demetrios’ stance On April 1, 2006, Rev. John am disappointed because the rea- and alleged that we covered it up. Bakakos. The priest usually is the gants come up asking you financial when he refused to send Katinas to Artemas was assigned as the new son is that I am asking questions The books are open. The attorney one who works with the Youth. The questions would you throw them the Spiritual Court because he was priest to St. Nicholas. about the church’s finances. These general told him there is no wrong treasurer thought that those were all out of the church to discipline an old and prominent priest? On June 28, 2006, the Saint are legitimate questions and be- doing here and that he is wasting secret accounts, but they were not, them? JA: I disagreed with that. Nicholas Audit Committee submit- cause of that I have been banned, his time. the parish council knew about JA: You do not understand the TNH: What are your views on ted a preliminary audit report to even thought the church is open to Every Sunday Papadopoulos them and was monitoring them in a responsibility that a priest has. homosexual priests, Bishops and the Parish Council and Rev. John all. was going to church and he was general way, but she thought that TNH: Why didn’t you call to or- Metropolitans? Artemas. TNH: Did you have reasons to creating problems and thus the Fr. Bakakos was using that account der your fellow priest who deposit- JA: They should not be tolerat- On July 21, 2006, a group of believe that there were financial parish council filed a restraining or- for his own benefit. ed the money into the GOYA ac- ed. Sappho, Elytis, Chris and Caravassilis Meet in Toronto

By James Karas to French by Veronique Perl and set poem/song will survive and “there turns to hatred. The lover is torment- countries around the world. He was and beautiful. Special to The National Herald to music by Greek Canadian compos- will be someone to remember me” ed by his/her love for the beautiful recently awarded three gold medals All Ancient Greek poetry was er Constantine Caravassilis. The five- and the ethereal words that the Mus- Atthis but she does not return the at the Volos International Composi- meant to be recited or sung to musi- A number of fascinating Greeks song cycle was sung splendidly by es inspired her to compose. Caravas- love. The rhythm becomes dramatic, tion Competition. cal accompaniment. The Iliad and got together on January 21 to pro- mezzo soprano Ariana Chris. silis starts the piece with a few stac- almost frenetic, slows down and fin- The accompanists were Susan the Odyssey were sung by singers of duce a wonderful recital at the Uni- The songs vary from a “melodi- cato chords on the piano and then ishes on a crescendo as the torment- Hoeppner (flute) and Zhenya tales for centuries before they were versity of Toronto’s New Music Festi- ous caress for the ear” to anger for the flute enters softening the piece. ed lover imagines Atthis flying to- Yesmanovich (piano). written down about 100 years before val 2009. There were two poets, a unrequited love and passion, from Then Ariana Chris’s gorgeous voice wards the beautiful and tied-down Much of the fascination of the Sappho lived. Homer left almost composer and a mezzo soprano, to attempted rape to subliminal eroti- picks up the poetry and, one cannot Andromeda. recital lay with the verbal and espe- 30,000 verses compared to the be exact. The poets were Sappho cism. They are scored for mezzo so- do any better than repeat Sappho’s The third song, entitled “Virgin” cially musical connection across lan- handful that we have from Sappho. whose verses have been translated prano, piano and flute. words, melodiously caresses our lashes out at “him who wished to guages and eons. Sappho’s poetry is Now there is poetry that is waiting to into Modern Greek by Nobel laure- The first piece entitled “My Song” ears. outrage me”. The miniscule victim of largely fragmentary but Elytis was find a musical language. Why not ate Odysseas Elytis. The Modern is a paean to the poet who knows The second song, “Always Eros,” attempted rape is left without any able to refashion these five gems. start with the captivating Song of the Greek text was in turn translated in- that although she will die her is about unrequited passion that hope and decides to remain a virgin Caravassilis has created a musical Sirens and marry the Homeric verses for eternity. language for the poetry that is apt to music to die for. “Adonis” is an elliptical song about the cold, beautiful youth of Greek myth. It has a plaintive, al- most haunting quality as it laments the doves’ cold hearts. The final song, “Harbinger of Spring” celebrates the nightingale The National Herald’s and its voluptuous voice. The song paints a subtly erotic picture of vir- gins dancing around an altar with their delicate feet pressing the flow- ers of spring. It has a lilting rhythm that perfectly captures the dance of Greek American the virgins. The lovely-voiced Ariana Chris (as Homer would have probably de- scribed her) is fast building a reper- Wedding toire in opera houses around the world. Last season she made her de- but with the New York City Opera as Lola in Cavalleria Rusticana. She has Coming February 21st... sung at Carnegie Hall and with the Santa Fe Opera. Her other appear- ances include Dorabella in Cosi Fan Don’t miss it! Tutte in Nantes and Opera Hong Kong. Composer Constantine Caravas- silis was born in Toronto but was raised in Samos. His compositions Mezzo Soprano Adriana Chris sings to the music of Greek Canadian composer Constantine Caravassilis. have been performed in numerous 8 OBITUARIES CLASSIFIEDS THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009

DEATHS

■ BASILIKO, OSCAR paktos, Greece, passed away on Fri- vived by two sisters, Bertha (James) WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Wash- day, January 31, 2009. He served in Zeinis and Anna Moskolis, both of ■ VALEKIS, BILL ington Post reported that Oscar the Greek Army, moved to Aus- South Bend; one niece, Kathy St. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Birming- Basiliko passed away on Saturday, tralia, where he met and married John of Granger; three nephews, ham News reported that Vasilis January 30, 2009. He was born on his wife of 44 years, Pagona, in John (Jean) Poulos of Jensen Charles “Bill” Valekis, 87, passed November 19, 1912 in Washington, 1964. There they had their first of Beach, FL, James (Susan) Moskolis away on Thursday, January 30, DC. Devoted to his wife Mary for 56 three daughters, Vickie, then of Granger and Sam Moskolis of 2009. Born on September 2, 1921, years. Survived by four loving chil- moved to Texas where they had South Bend; seven great-nieces and Bill was a life-long resident of Birm- dren Mary Ivie (Ben), Stephanie their other two daughters, Sophia nephews, Louis J. (Valerie) Poulos, ingham. He was a graduate of Ram- MEMORIAL Two Eagles, Christine Dingus and Sammey. George was also pas- Becki (Doug) Franson, Andrew sey High School, served in the Navy (Phillip) and Philip Basiliko sionate about his hunting and gar- (Christina) Poulos, Nathaniel M. during World War II and returned to Three years have passed since the day our beloved (Jayne). He is survived by two sis- dening. George is preceded in death Moskolis, Alysia Moskolis, Gabriel earn an engineering degree at son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin passed away ters and two brothers Marche by his parents, Gerasimos and Moskolis and Nicholas Moskolis; Howard College (now Samford Uni- Wolfe, Happy Swagart, Achilles and Stavroula, and sister Areti. He will and two great-great-nieces, Rebec- versity). Bill then worked for Alaba- Arthur Basiliko and six grand- be greatly missed by his devoted ca Poulos and Lauren Franson. Kay ma Power Company and Southern daughters Carole Knight Skoufis, wife Pagona; his loving children retired as an executive secretary for Company Services retiring in 1989 Alyson Two Eagles, Amnie Dingus, Vickie and Jimmy Velis, Sophia and the Metropolitan Sanitation District after a successful career of 34-years. Kathryn Ivie, Elizabeth and Sarah Peter Zafirides, and Sammey Mi- of Chicago after 15 years. She also As a life-long member of the Holy- Basiiko. Preceded in death by hos; and his pride and joy, his worked for the Bendix Corporation Trinity Holy Cross Cathedral, he daughter Mary Helen and brothers grandchildren, Konstantino and An- in South Bend. She was a faithful was a very active and most faithful Nick, George, Gus, Harry, John and gelina. George is also survived by member of St. Andrew's Greek Or- servant. He served his Church and Gregory. Mr. Basiliko was a World Sotirios and Tasia Sotiropoulos and thodox Church where she partici- Lord as a dedicated Sunday School War II Army Veteran. The funeral their family, and a brother and sister pated in the Good Samaritan Club Teacher-Director, repeated Parish was held on February 2 at Saints in Greece. George was a loving hus- of the church and was active in Council Member, and for many Constantine and Helen Greek Or- band, father and grandfather who many facets of church life. She was decades, up until the last Sunday thodox Church in Washington, D.C. dedicated his life to the happiness deeply loved and will be greatly before his death, as Acolyte Leader. Memorial donations to Internation- and success of his beautiful family. missed by her family and many Bill led a quiet and simple life; he al Orthodox Christian Charities "Don't you worry, BaBa". May his friends. The funeral was held on was a man of strong faith. He loved (IOCC) (PO Box 630225 Baltimore, memory be eternal-Zoi Se Sas! Pall- February 2 at St. Andrew's Greek the Lord with his whole being and MD 21263) or a favorite charity. bearers include Chris Alexandris, Orthodox Church. Burial was at served Him not only through his John Alexandris, Tom Fox, Kostas Southlawn Cemetery. Memorial do- Church but in ways only known be- ■ CERRITELLI, ESTHET Mavrikos, Dimitri Reppas, and nations to the church or to the Cen- tween Bill and the Lord. He never EFSTATHIOS G. KAPERONIS BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – The Con- Frank Zoys. Honorary pallbearers ter for Hospice and Palliative Care met a stranger and never failed to from New York necticut Post reported that Esther are Nick Dimoulakis, Diamond Pau- (111 Sunnybrook Court, South share his love for the Lord with (Trifiatis) Cerritelli, 88, passed taze, George Touris, and Nick Zotos. Bend, IN 46637). those he met along the way. He was In his memory, a memorial service will take place at the away on Sunday, January 25, 2009. The funeral was held on February 3 preceded in death by his parents, Greek Orthodox Church of The Holy Trinity Her husband, Victor Cerritelli, pre- at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox ■ SAMANIS, ARTHUR Julia and Charles Valekis; his oldest 10 Mill Rd., New Rochelle, NY., deceased her on September 28, Church in Dallas. Memorial dona- FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Fayet- sister, Eula Machoudy Triantos; on Sunday, February 8th 2009 at 10:30 a.m. 1973. She graduated from Central tions to the Holy Trinity Greek Or- teville Observer reported that brothers, Gus Machoudy, Nick Ma- High School in 1938 and Booth- thodox Church. Arthur Nicholaos Samanis, 88, of choudy and Johnny Valekis; and ba- His parents Bayliss Business School in 1941. Fayetteville, passed away peaceful- by sister, Fanny Valekis Theodore. GEORGE and ANNA KAPERONIS She worked at General Electric in ■ BRUCE M. LANSDALE ly on Sunday, February 1, 2009, at He was well loved and will be the Navy Shipping Department. In Bruce M. Lansdale, 84, former Pres- his home after a lengthy illness. He missed by many. Bill was a loving His sister and brother in-law 1945, she moved to Los Angeles ident of the American Farm School was born May 2, 1920, in Magalo husband and father. He is survived ΤΙΝΑ and BRIAN ANTASH and worked for Samuel Goldwyn in Thessaloniki, Greece, passed Horio, Evrytanias, Greece, and was by his wife of 59 years, Maria Pago- Studio under the head of the Sound away quietly after a long illness the youngest son of the late na Valekis; his sons, Charles (Hala), His nieces and nephews Department, Gordon Sawyer. Then Monday, February 2, at his daugh- Nicholaos and Magdaline Samanis. Jim (Becky), and John Valekis; his GEORGE, LAUREN and JAMES ANTASH in 1949, she returned and worked ter’s home in Thessaloniki, near the Arthur is survived by his beloved daughter, Julia Valekis Brodie His aunts and uncles for Fidelity Loan Corporation, and School he led so devotedly for 35 wife of 25 years, Christine Kelly (Bill). He is also survived by eight then for Chris Wesche, the head of years. Former U.S. Ambassador to Samanis; daughter, Mary Ann Bris- grandchildren: Billy Valekis, Adelle BETTY and JAMES ZAFIROS Civil Defense. In the late 60s and Greece, Thomas M.T. Niles, voiced son Smith of Raleigh; nephews, Valekis Pharo, Joey Valekis ANDREW and TASIA DOUZOS early 70s, she assisted her husband the sentiments of many when he Nick J. Kanos of Tarpon Springs, (Melanie), Paige Valekis Williams in their family owned gas station commented, “Bruce Lansdale’s Fla., and Christopher Kanos of (Dennis), Stephanie Valekis Neu- ALEXANDRA ΚΑPERONIS, JAMES KAPERONIS and mini-mart She was also in- work as President of the American Stamford; Conn.; grandchildren, roth (Rob), Ashley Valekis, Alexis JOHN DENNIS volved with the Barnum Festival, Farm School did more for Greece, great-grandchildren; a niece and Brodie, and Christian Brodie; and 4 His cousins the Volunteer Bureau, and many and Greek-American relations, than two nephews in Peraeus, Greece. great-grandchildren: Ella Rose other organizations. Esther lived in all the American ambassadors com- He was predeceased by three broth- Pharo, Demi Marie Pharo, Nicole and the rest of the relatives here and in Greece. Derby and was at one time, presi- bined, myself included.” ers, Chris, John and Gus, and four Rebecca Williams, and Joey Robert 902068/619 dent of the Exchange Auxiliary Under his leadership, the American sisters, Pauline Kanos of Fayet- Neuroth. He is also survived by his Club. In February 1981, she moved Farm School (which was incorpo- teville, and Harriet, Elaine and Vasi- sister, Maude Valekis Morgan; sev- to San Diego, Calif. where she rated as a nonprofit charitable insti- liki of Greece. Arthur served in the eral nieces, nephews, cousins and worked for her sister, Irene Cantos tution “to serve the rural youth of Greek army prior to immigrating to many beloved friends. He was hap- CLASSIFIEDS in her real estate business. She be- Greece and the Balkans” in the Fayetteville, where he was a partner pily anticipating the birth of a fifth longed to Sts. Constantine & Helen State of New York in 1902) became in the New York Restaurant on Hay great-grandchild in August. Bill Greek Orthodox Church in Cardiff a multifaceted institution dedicated Street. Later, he owned and operat- thanks you in advance for respect- HELP WANTED 405 91st Street by the Sea, California. She is sur- to quality “hands-on” education ed the Chicken King on Raeford ing his wishes. May His Memory Be Bay Ridge - Brooklyn, NY 11209 vived by her sister, Irene Cantos and and innovation in agriculture. Road. After retiring from the Chick- Eternal ! Matthew 25:23 "His Lord Exciting opportunity for internet (718) 745-1010 her husband, Judge Earl Cantos; Through specialized short courses en King, he was affiliated with the said unto him, well done, good and ASSISTANT EDITOR to work for Services in all localities - brother, Peter Trifiatis; many and community development pro- Rainbow Restaurant on Ramsey faithful servant; thou has been Greek American PUBLISHING Low cost shipping to Greece nephews, Father Earl Cantos and jects, as well as international train- Street. He was an active member of faithful over a few things, I will COMPANY in New York. Should his wife, Carol, Bill Cantos and his ing programs for agricultural edu- Saints Constantine and Helen make thee ruler over many things; live and breath on-line publishing, ANTONOPOULOS wife, Mari, William Trifiatis and Pe- cators from throughout the world, Greek Orthodox Church. He served enter thou into the joy of Thy Lord. be creative, and self motivated. A FUNERAL HOME, INC. ter Trifiatis and his wife, Jan; many Mr. Lansdale also ensured the in both the Ahepa and Velouchi as- The funeral was held on February 2 working knowledge of Greek com- Konstantinos Antonopoulos - nieces, Rita Cantos Cartwright and School’s commitment to providing sociations. The funeral was held on at the Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek munity and Greek issues a plus. Funeral Director her husband, Robert, Roxanne lifelong learning of the highest cal- February 3 at Saints Constantine Orthodox Cathedral in Birming- Will report directly to publisher. E- 38-08 Ditmars Blvd., (Cantos) Fulkerson and her hus- iber. Mr. Lansdale’s books, Master and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, ham. Memorial donations to the mail to: publisher@thenation- Astoria, New York 11105 band, Jeffrey, Marie (Trifiatis) Mal- Farmer and Cultivating Inspired 614 Oakridge Ave., Fayetteville, fol- Greek Orthodox Cathedral or Altar aλherald.com (718) 728-8500 one and her husband, Patrick, Mau- Leaders, have been translated into lowed by a graveside service at Boys Guild Fund. 115837/01/01/01-14 Not affiliated with any reen (Trifiatis-Kerns) Dent and her several languages and have become Cross Creek Cemetery. Memorial other funeral home. husband, Michael, Jan Cerritelli, established as recognized tools for donations to Saints Constantine ■ ZOGRAFOS, SOTIRI Telemarketing opportunity: Greek Elizabeth (Cerritelli) Spurlock and global work in sustainable develop- and Helen Greek Orthodox Church. SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – Sotiri American publishing company, APOSTOLOPOULOS husband, Bill, and Willa Trifiatis; ment. His long autobiographical "Sam" Zografos, 82, passed away on based in L.I.C., NY, is seeking tele- Apostle Family - grandnephews, Jeffrey Ful-kerson, poem is published in the bilingual ■ TIPOUIKIDIS, JOHN Thursday, January 23, 2009 at his marketing professionals for its sub- Gregory, Nicholas, Andrew - Trevor Fulkerson, Wesley Fulker- Greek and English book, Metamor- CALGARY, Alb. – The Calgary Her- home in San Francisco. Devoted scription based English and Greek Funeral Directors of son, Peter Trifiatis III, Tony Malone, phosis: Why Do I Love Greece? ald reported that John A. husband of Evanthia Zografos; ded- language publications. Good salary, RIVERDALE and James Dent; grandnieces, Bruce M. Lansdale served at the Tipouikidis, 67, passed away on icated father of Taso, Dino, Anna commission and flexible hours. E- FUNERAL HOME Inc. Heather (Cartwright) Dickey and American Farm School in Thessa- Wednesday, January 28, 2009. He Nikolaou, and Spiro Zografos and mail bio to: advertising@ekirikas. 5044 Broadway her husband, Mark, Aimee loniki, Greece, for 43 years, and was was surrounded by his loving family father-in-law of Dimitri Nikolaou com or fax 718-472-0510 New York, NY 10034 Cartwright, Jennifer (Trifiatis) Bis- its Director from 1955 until his re- as he ended his courageous battle and Judi Zografos; loving grandfa- (212) 942-4000 sell and her husband, Brian, Laura tirement in 1990. Born in 1925 in with cancer. John was born on No- ther of his namesake Sotiri "Sam" JOURNALISTS WANTED Toll Free 1-888-GAPOSTLE Dent, Amanda Trifiatis, and Lynn Worcester, Massachusetts, he was vember 25, 1941, in Alonakia, Zografos, Theodore Nikolaou, Nation’s leading Greek American O'Neal-Yeh; godchildren, Debra raised in Thessaloniki where his fa- Kozani, Greece. John left Greece in Joseph and Juliana Zografos. Sam newspaper, The National Herald, LITRAS FUNERAL HOME (Pappas) Flader, Alisa Ann Faris, ther was one of the early directors 1962 as a young man to attend the was born and raised an orphan in a needs reporters and assistant editor ARLINGTON BENSON DOWD, Matthew Faris, and Brian Avery; ex- of the YMCA. He earned a B.Sc. in University of Chicago civil engi- small village called Doliana situated for English weekly paper. INC FUNERAL HOME tended family and friends, Irene Mechanical Engineering from the neering program. In 1965, circum- in the northern most region of Exceptional writing/reporting 83-15 Parsons Blvd., and Bob Vadas, Belle Cheverino, University of Rochester and an stances led him on other paths until Epiros, Greece. In 1940, at the age skills and bilingual fluency a must. Jamaica, NY 11432 Gail Alfano, Brian Avery, godson, M.Sc. in Rural Sociology from Cor- he arrived in Canada in 1968 where of 14, Sam joined the mountain Car a plus. Fax or e-mail clips and (718) 858-4434 • (800) 245-4872 Nancy Colonnese, Helen (Pappas) nell University. Following retire- after a short stay in Toronto, he guerilla resistance to fight against cover letter to 718-472-0510 or Kelly, Beverly (Pappas) Odice, and ment from the American Farm moved to Montreal and began work the Germans during their occupa- [email protected]. Pam (Pappas) Hill. The funeral was School, Mr. Lansdale and his wife, in the construction business. John tion of Greece in World War II. After 111609/01 TO PLACE YOUR held on January 28 at St. Spyridon Tad, devoted themselves to con- had found his niche and his life's the war ended, he proudly served in CLASSIFIED AD, CALL: Greek Orthodox Church in San ducting leadership seminars in Al- work which culminated in him the Greek Army. In 1951 he immi- FUNERAL HOMES (718) 784-5255, EXT. 106, Diego. bania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, moving to Calgary and founding grated into the US. He first lived E-MAIL: Nepal, Nigeria, Malawi, Tanzania, Master Decor Industries in 1979. and worked in Texas where he be- CONSTANTINIDES classifieds@ thenationalherald.com ■ GORRA, CONSTANCE India, Nepal and Honduras. Using Until his passing, John loved his came a loyal fan of the Dallas Cow- FUNERAL PARLOR Co. MIDDLETOWN, N.J. – The Asbury beloved tales of the wise man Nas- work. He designed and built many boys football team and westerns, Park Press reported that Constance radin Hodja to illustrate his points, restaurants and other major con- and especially a fan of actor John Kareman Gorra, a 17-year resident Mr. Lansdale demonstrated his re- struction projects in Calgary and Wayne. After going to night school of Middletown, passed away on markable ability to communicate environs - all testaments to John's and becoming an American citizen, Wednesday, January 28, 2009. Con- and inspire people of all nationali- creative design talents, expert orga- Sam returned to Greece and mar- nie was born Elani Constance ties, cultures and walks of life to ap- nizational skills, and meticulous at- ried Evanthia Siokas and together Kacramanous in Ocean Grove on preciate and serve one another. Mr. tention to detail. But work was not they travelled to San Francisco to May 1, 1923, the daughter of Greek Lansdale’s many honors included John's whole life; he loved garden- build their family and make the Bay immigrants who later anglicized three successive Fulbright Scholar ing, social gatherings and dining Area their new home. Sam initially grants; Rockefeller and Ford Foun- out. He was a man of style who took worked at the Olympic Club as a subscribePRINTED EDITION OF THE NATIONAL HERALD their last name to Kareman. In addi- tion to being co-owner of Gorra's dation Fellowships; and an hon- pride in an impeccable appearance, busboy, and then took a job at via the post-office: Wall Street, a ladies' clothing store orary Ph.D. from the Aristotle Uni- evidenced not only in his person but Oroweat Baking Company where ❏1 Month $11.00 ❏3 Months $22.00 in New York City, Connie was a gift- versity of Thessaloniki. He was an also in his home and office. John he remained a loyal employee for ❏6 Months $33.00 ❏One Year $66.00 ed artist. She enjoyed discussing honorary citizen of Greece and of faithfully maintained a vast net- over 33 years. Sam loved his Greek VIA HOME DELIVERY (NY, NJ & CT): politics, economics and fashion. the City of Thessaloniki and the re- work of connections with all his heritage and culture, enjoyed folk ❏1 Month for $14.00 ❏3 Months for $33.00 She was a talented cook and charm- cipient of the University of family and friends, always selflessly music, the sound of the clarinet, an ❏6 Months for $48.00 ❏One Year for $88.00 ing hostess who loved spending Rochester Outstanding Alumnus there to lend support when needed. avid fisherman who frequented the time with her family and friends. Award. The Greek Government He was an exemplary son to his par- Cliff House, played soccer for the lo- VIA HOME DELIVERY (NEW ENGLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, She always said, "Sweet dreams!" to awarded Mr. Lansdale with the ents, father to his children, brother cal Greek Americans Soccer Team at WASHINGTON D.C., VIRGINIA & MARYLAND) her children and grandchildren, Commander of Order of Honor, and to his siblings, and member of the Balboa Park, and contributed much ❏1 Month for $18.00 ❏3 Months for $41.00 and we wish her the same. She was with the Royal Order of King Greek community. John was prede- time and energy supporting the ❏6 Months for $57.00 ❏One Year for $109.00 predeceased by her parents, George George. Besides his wife, Mr. Lans- ceased by his daughter Catherine, Macedonian Park in Calistoga - with ON LINE SUBSCRIPTION www.thenationalherald.com and Demitra Stamanapolis Kacra- dale leaves four children: Christine his father Aristotle, his mother Keri- a tambourine in his hand. Always NON SUBSCRIBERS: ❏One Year for $45.95 ❏6 Months for $29.95 manous Kareman; her husband, Al- Willis, David D. Lansdale, Jeffrey P. aki, his nephew George, and his sis- with a smile and a kind word, he ❏3 Months for $18.95 bert James Gorra; and her brothers, Lansdale, and Michael L. Lansdale ter-in-law Denise. John will be was loved and will be missed by SUBSCRIBERS: ❏One Year for $34.95 ❏6 Months for $23.95 Peter Stephen, Peter, James "Chip:, as well as eleven grandchildren. deeply missed and lovingly remem- many. The funeral was held on Jan- ❏3 Months for $14.95 and Spiro "Fred" Kareman. She is Memorial gifts may be made to the bered by his devoted wife, Dimi; uary 26 at the Annunciation Greek survived by her son and daughter- Lansdale Leadership Fund to sup- son Aristotle (Jennifer) and grand- Orthodox Cathedral in San Francis- in-law, James Albert and Marie Gor- port scholarships at the American daughter, Lola; daughter Sandy; co. Memorial donations to the An- NAME: ...... ra; her daughter, Dr. Georgine Gor- Farm School. Contact tel. 212-463- brothers Gus and Ken (Cathy); sis- nunciation Greek Orthodox Cathe- ADDRESS: ...... ra; her daughter and son-in-law, 8434 or email: ters Helen (John) of Greece, and dral Building Fund (245 Valencia CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... Thomas and Elaine Anne McCol- [email protected]. Sophia (John) of Germany; and nu- Street, San Francisco, CA 94103). TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... gan; her grandchildren, Thomas Al- merous nieces and nephews and PLEASE SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO: ■ bert McColgan, Michelle Constance MORFETTAS, KATHERINE their families in Canada and Eu- NAME: ...... Primerano, and Michael Albert Gor- GRANGER, Ind. – The South Bend rope; and many close friends. The ADDRESS: ...... ra; and many nieces and nephews. Tribune reported that Katherine family will always remember and This is a service CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... The funeral was held on January 31 "Kay" Morfettas, 83, of Granger, be grateful for John's love and devo- to the community. TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... at St. George Greek Orthodox died at 6:45 a.m. Friday, January tion to them, but John also will be Announcements of deaths Please specify method of payment Church in Asbury Park. Memorial 30, 2009, in Hospice House follow- fondly remembered by all for his may be telephoned to the donations to St. George Greek Or- ing a lengthy illness. Kay was born unstinting kindness, his practical I enclose a check/money order for $ ...... made payable to: Classified Department of The National Herald, Inc., 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101 - 2614 thodox Church, (700 Grand Ave., in 1925 in Chicago, IL, to the late wisdom, his unfailing generosity, The National Herald at or please debit my ❏ Mastercard ❏ Visa ❏ American Express Asbury Park, NJ 07712). Andrew and Anna (Andriopoulos) his dedication to his faith and his (718) 784-5255, Morfettas, and had lived in the family, and his indefatigable will to CARD NUMBER: ...... ■ Monday through Friday, MIHOS, GEORGE South Bend area since the 1950s. attain perfection in all aspects of his 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST EXPIRATION DATE: ...... SIGNATURE:...... DALLAS, Texas – The Dallas Morn- She was also preceded in death by a life. The funeral was held on Febru- or e-mailed to: ing News reported that George Mi- sister, Bessie Poulos, and by a great- ary 2 at St. Demetrios Greek Ortho- [email protected] hos, born on July 17, 1936 in Naf- niece, Amelia Moskolis. She is sur- dox Church in Calgary. THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 GREECE CYPRUS 9 HIDDEN GREECE Erdogan’s Outburst Strains Turkish-Israeli Relations Hidden Greece will present pictures of the country that tourists don't see, the main streets but also the back streets and balconies and the By Evan C. Lambrou siege of Gaza. There was never a day “Thank you very much. Thank you greet him this past January 30, when way of life of people outside the normal spotlight: workers, the home- Special to The National Heralds. of starvation in Gaza. All Hamas very much. Thank you very much. I he returned from Davos, waving less, ordinary citizens and some more celebrated, and the places they wanted was to bring in rockets from don’t think I will come back to Davos Turkish and Palestinian flags and live and work and define modern Greece, as well as its legacy. NEW YORK – Mutual interests Iran,” he said. after this,” and stalked off the stage. chanting, “Turkey is proud of you.” make for strange bedfellows, it is of- “You are killing people,” Mr. Er- The packed audience, which in- Mr. Erdogan said any Turkish ten said. Turkey’s “alliance” with Is- dogan told Mr. Peres. cluded President Obama’s close ad- prime minister would have done the rael is a case in point. The two coun- A finger-pointing Mr. Peres then visor Valerie Jarrett, appeared same: “Our people would have ex- tries have wide-ranging military, told Mr. Erdogan that he would have stunned. pected the same reaction from any economic and strategic ties. done the same if rockets had been But tension between Turkey and Turkish prime minister,” he told a According to Gerald Kaplan, au- hitting Istanbul: “What would you Israel had been mounting for weeks, news conference after speaking to thor of “The Betrayal of Africa, while do if you were to have in Istanbul with Turkey frequently denouncing the crowd. the Turkish-Israeli alliance seems every night a hundred rockets?” the Israeli military action in very “This was a matter of the esteem counter-intuitive to many, it has The Turkish Premier then asked strong terms. and prestige of my country. Hence, made good sense for Turkey and Is- the moderator, Washington Post Harut Sassounian, publisher of my reaction had to be clear. I could rael: Columnist David Ignatius, to let him the California Courier, an Armenian not have allowed anyone to poison “Israel gets a warm working rela- speak once more. American weekly, pointed out that the prestige and, in particular, the tionship with one of the largest Mus- “Only a minute,” Mr. Ignatius the Turkish public has been very up- honor of my country,” he said. lim countries in the world, while en- said. set about the Israeli offensive: Mr. Erdogan has complained that riching Israel’s all-important indus- “President Peres, you are older “Mass demonstrations were held Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert trial-military complex. Less than two than me, and your voice is very loud. throughout Turkey with banners launched the attack on Gaza without months ago, for instance, came the The reason for you raising your that read, ‘Gaza will be a grave for Is- Turkey a heads-up, despite Turkey’s news of a deal worth $140 million to voice is the psychology of guilt. I will rael’ and ‘Put Israel on trial for war close involvement in talks connected Israeli firms to upgrade Turkey’s air not raise my voice that much. You crimes.’ Israel’s Consul General in Is- to Gaza. force… But he also said Turkey’s re- “In return, Turkey gets military, proaches were not against the Israeli economic and diplomatic benefits. people or Jews, but against the cur- But it also gets something less tangi- rent Israeli administration. ble, something that matters deeply Mr. Erdogan’s reaction to Mr. for reasons hard for outsiders to Peres has reportedly angered mem- grasp. As part of the Faustian bar- bers of the Israeli Government, how- gain between the two countries, a ever. succession of Israeli governments of Speaking on condition of all stripes has adamantly refused to anonymity, Israeli officials told the recognize that, in 1915, the Turkish Associated Press this past Monday, Multimedia Government was responsible for February 2, that Turkey’s role in me- launching a genocide against its Ar- diating the Israeli-Arab conflict has Passersby are on their cell phones, but they won't any service in the menian minority,” he wrote in the been compromised by Mr. Erdogan’s torched electronics store right in front of them, a victim of the riots. Toronto Globe & Mail on January repeated censure of Israel’s war in 23. the Gaza Strip. But Turkey’s relations with Israel Mr. Erdogan’s government medi- now appear to be quite strained. ated four rounds of indirect talks be- The recent estrangement culmi- tween Syria and Israel this year, but nated during the World Economic the discussions made no significant Turkish actor Admits to War Forum in Davos, Switzerland this headway, and Syria suspended the past January 29, when Turkish talks after Israel launched its war in Crimes Against Cypriots Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdo- Gaza. gan walked briskly off the stage after “Erdogan won’t mediate any- a verbal sparring match with Israeli thing any more,” the official said. Continued from page 1 President Shimon Peres about the Is- “His stint as mediator between Israel raeli offensive in Gaza, during which and the Arabs is over, that’s for sure. demned picture is not leaving me.” more than 1,300 Palestinians were He won’t be accepted as an honest Cypriot Foreign Minister Markos killed, but in which less than 15 Is- broker by Israel, at all.” Kyprianou called for an immediate raelis died. But any Israeli discontent is di- investigation into Mr. Olgac’s con- The confrontation saw Mr. Peres rected at Mr. Erdogan personally, the fession. This is a humanitarian, and shouting and Mr. Erdogan raising his official added, and should not be not a political issue, and the effort voice – a highly unusual develop- misconstrued as a rupture with must not be limited to just the UN ment for the elite annual gathering AP PHOTO/IBRAHIM USTA Turkey, whose cooperation Israel Committee on Missing Persons of corporate and world leaders, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, is seen with Is- values. (CMP), which identifies the remains which is usually marked by learned tanbul Mayor Kadir Topbas during the inauguration of a subway sta- Mr. Peres said on January 30 he of the dead,” he said. consensus-seeking and polite dia- tion in Istanbul, Turkey, Monday, Jan. 30, 2009. Thousands of jubilant hoped Israel’s relations with Turkey Atilla Olgac said that he was con- logue. It also showed how frayed Turks welcomed their prime minister home on Friday, thronging the would not be affected by the heated fessing these painful events for the emotions were over Israel’s relent- airport and later chanting "Turkey is proud of you!" after he publicly exchange, and added that he had first time after 25 years, but later re- less attacks, which ended less than confronted the Israeli president over the Gaza war during the World spoken to Mr. Erdogan by telephone canted his statement and claimed three weeks ago. Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. after the debate. that he was testing-out a new plot The two men were seated next to “We don’t want conflict with for a movie script he is planning. He each other during the debate, which should know that. But when it tanbul, Mordecai Amihai, told Mil- Turkey. We are in a conflict with the also said he wanted to draw atten- also included United Nations Secre- comes to killing, you know very well liyet that the Israeli Consulate re- Palestinians,” Mr. Peres told re- tion to the savagery of war. tary General Ban Ki Moon and Arab how to kill. I know very well how ceived hundreds of anti-Semitic e- porters in Davos. As regards Olgac’s decision to re- League Chief Amr Moussa. you hit and killed children on the mails every day during the fighting Similar sentiments were ex- tract his confession, Mr. Kyprianou Mr. Erdogan was visibly angry beaches,” Mr. Erdogan said. in Gaza,” Mr. Sassounian wrote in pressed in Turkey: “We attach im- said that it raises questions on about being cut off by a panel mod- “I remember two former prime his February 5 column. portance to our relations with Israel, whether “he did it because he was AP/MUSTAFA KIRAZLI, CIHAN NEWS AGENCY erator after listening to Mr. Peres’ ministers in your country who said Jewish American groups have al- and we want to preserve those rela- not saying the truth in the first place In this Nov. 11, 2006 file photo impassioned monologue defending they felt very happy when they were so stated that the Jewish community tions,” Cemil Cicek, Turkey’s deputy or because he was afraid of the pres- Turkish actor Atilla Olgac is seen Israel’s 22-day incursion in the Gaza able to enter Palestine on tanks. I in Turkey feels “besieged and threat- prime minister, told a news confer- sure and realized the seriousness of during an interview in Istanbul. Strip. find it very sad that people applaud ened… that protestors besieging the ence on Monday. “Turkey is not tar- his confession.” Mr. Erdogan strongly criticized what you said. There have been Israeli Consulate in Istanbul have ex- geting Israel or its people. We have “Whatever the case may be, the vention. the war in Gaza: “Think of the mili- many people killed. And I think that pressed their hatred of Jews… that been expressing concern over the confession should be investigated,” Since the Turkish invasion of tary power of Israel. Can Gaza it is very wrong, and it is not human- billboards around Istanbul are full of killing of civilians and human the Cypriot FM concluded. Cyprus in 1974, tens of thousand of match this? It was a disproportion- itarian,” he added. anti-Jewish propaganda posters… tragedy in Gaza.” The Cypriot government has al- Turkish soldiers continue to illegally ate response. And Israel then reject- “We can’t start the debate again. and that a connection is clearly per- Mr. Erdogan was nonetheless ready decided to raise the issue be- occupy the island’s northern third. ed the United Nations resolution. We just don’t have time,” Mr. Ig- ceived between the inflammatory hailed for his “courage and bravery” fore the Council of Europe's Com- Cyprus is the only EU member state There is a lot of talk about Hamas, natius said, interrupting Mr. Erdo- denunciation of Israel by Turkish of- by Hamas, the Iranian Government mittee of Ministers, calling them to that is facing a de facto division. but they are not the only people in gan. ficials and the rise of anti-Semitism,” and much of the Muslim world for investigate Olgac's confession. Gaza. There are also civilians, and “Please let me finish,” Mr. Erdo- Mr. Sassounian wrote. speaking out against Israeli policies. Cyprus will also lodge an appeal to (This story was compiled from their democratic rights are not being gan replied. Mr. Erdogan received a hero’s the European Court of Human sources drawn from ANA-MPA, respected,” he said (in Turkish). “We really do need to get people welcome in Turkey, as thousands of The above incorporates informa- Rights (ECHR). CANA, Milliyet, Hurriyet, Reuters, Clearly rattled, the normally to dinner,” Mr. Ignatius responded. people gathered at Istanbul’s tion from reports posted by the In a statement in the Greek Par- and AP) calm Mr. Peres said, “There was no The Turkish premier then said, Ataturk International Airport to Daily Mail and Gulf News. liament last Friday, Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis told MPs that Greece and Cyprus were work- ing together to carefully plan their response to Mr. Olgac's admission. "In no instance will Greece content Anti-Cyprus Bias at National Public Radio itself with a verbal condemnation. This is a new lead that Greece in- Continued from page 1 sions. rulings that France, Italy, and tomans. He further notes that there coverage of the region. This news- tends to use based on a specific The balance of the program is Greece have the exclusive right to is no Greek objection to Turks on paper has written to National Pub- plan," she said. “Northern Cyprus” were an entity devoted to Turkish contractors. call certain cheeses Camembert, Cyprus marketing their form of the lic Radio to protest the nature of the Mrs. Bakoyannis expressed her on a par with the Republic in the Schachter concludes that condi- Gorgonzola, and Feta. The first NPR cheese. The patent protection only Schachter Cyprus stories. We ask horror at Mr. Olgac's admission and way North and South Korea are in- tions will not improve for them un- distortion occurs when this naming restricts producers in nearby na- that such reporting cease and that said that the attempt to "revise" this dependent states. This interpreta- til there is an economic rebound of cheese is confused with whether tions such as Lebanon, Egypt, and learned responses be aired to offer was not at all convincing and did not tion of the divisions on the island that revives tourism. This effective- we should speak of Turkish or Turkey from calling any of their correction to the misinformation al- address the heart of the problem, conforms to the view of the govern- ly reduces the whole issue of confis- Greek coffee, a legal non-issue un- cheeses Halumi. Turks on Cyprus ready broadcast. We have suggest- which was Turkey's fundamental re- ment of Turkey rather than the cated land and property to a combi- derscored by the fact that neither would be free to market their ed that Eugene Rossides (Founder sponsibility to carry out a full inves- view of the world community, in- nation of fickle tourism and a real Greece nor Turkey grow coffee. cheeses by any name they wanted, of the American Hellenic Institute), tigation into the fate of the Greek cluding the government of the estate bubble. Further confusion is generated by a but if they used the word Halumi on Van Coufoudakis (Dean Emeritus and Greek Cypriot persons who United States of America. The same tone is found in One Turkish cheese maker who thinks their labels, they would automati- and Professor Emeritus of Indiana- have been missing since 1974. A report titled Cyprus Tourism Island-Two Cultures (broadcast on calling a cheese by its Greek name cally be entitled to the legal protec- Purdue University), or Chris Ioan- She underlined that the Olgac Hurting in Bad Economy (broad- January 26, 2009) in a feature ti- rather than its Turkish name is a ne- tion sought by the government of nides (Director of the Center for statements, apart from their shock- cast on Feb. 2, 2009) does not refer tled Geo Quiz. This program ap- farious Greek plot. Cyprus. Byzantine and Modern Greek Stud- ing brutality, lifted a veil of silence to the millions of tourists that legal- pears to be more “balanced” on the The exchange that follows is an Schachter and Mullins might be ies, Queens College-SUNY) would that the Turkish Government has ly visit the island annually, but to surface but is replete with historical example of how historical nonsense expected to offer some observation be excellent choices for such a role. hid under for 35 years in an attempt Brits who vacation in the Turkish error and distortion. We are told is given equal space by a commen- about this exchange. Both sides We don’t ask changes to occur at to cover up the flagrant violations of sector. One British couple has built there are 800,000 Cypriots who are tator with very limited airtime. The can’t possibly be right. Any stan- National Public Radio because of international law and human rights a home just outside the port of Kyre- divided between Greek and Turkish dard encyclopedia would have in- our ethnic heritage. We ask it as that accompanied and marked its il- nia. This was to be their “holiday” communities. The implication is formed them that early forms of American citizens who are con- legal occupation of Cyprus. home but was so cheap to construct that the number of inhabitants is A Greek baker calmly Greek were spoken on Cyprus some cerned about the continued disin- Archbishop Chrysostomos, that the couple decided on early re- equally divided between the two responds that Halumi 1400 years before the birth of formation about foreign affairs that leader of the Church of Cyprus, ex- tirement. Not a word from groups. No mention is made of the Christ. Ancient Cyprus produced plagues American mass media. In pressed the conviction that Olgac Schachter on whether or not the fact that until the Turkish govern- was created over one some of the earliest poetry to ap- this particular case, our ethnic her- had been “pressured” into retracting home was built on land from which ment began resettling mainland hundred years earlier pear anywhere in Europe, and itage provides us insight on the in- his confession following strong reac- Greeks were driven in 1974 in what Turks on Greek property in the than the arrival of Cyprus was the birthplace of Zeno, appropriate nature of this particu- tions from Cyprus, Greece and was de facto ethnic cleansing. Nor 1970s, Turks made up only some the founder of the stoic school of lar coverage. Turkey. is there any discussion of the inter- 15% of the island’s total popula- the Ottomans. philosophy. No, the Greeks are not While we await an official re- Reaction from the Turkish media national regulations that question tion. quite the new kids on the block. sponse from National Public Radio was also swift. A columnist for the the legality of any such purchases or The format for this program is a casual listener is left with the im- These short reports on National executives, we ask the readers of Turkish daily Hurriyet said that Mr. construction in the occupied zone. quiz in which listeners are asked to pression that both views that are Public Radio are not going to this newspaper to contact National Olgac should face prosecution Instead, we are asked to commiser- guess which Mediterranean island presented have validity. The Turk change the political dynamics on Public Radio to register their per- whether his confession was ficti- ate with the unlucky couple from is fraught with inflated ethnic divi- speaks first and makes the silly Cyprus. But they are part of a con- sonal outrage about the content of tious or not. If it was true, then he Kent, England, in what is presented sions. Lisa Mullins, the host of the comment that the Greeks didn’t tinuing stream of misinformation these programs. A “contact us” seg- should be prosecuted for war crimes as yet another manifestation of the segment, genially introduces us to know how to cook anything until that is aimed at just those Ameri- ment is available on the network’s along with all the commanders who global housing crisis. The value of Schachter’s on-site reporting by ob- the arrival of the Ottomans in the cans anxious to know more about website. The phone and address are turned a blind eye to the executions; the house purchased by the Brits serving political clashes often take late sixteenth century. He then the world. Trivialization of what 202-513-2300 and National Public and if it was a lie, then he should be has fallen drastically. This is due in the form of cultural rather than mil- states the Greeks took everything has been an armed conflict and dis- Radio, 635 Massachusetts Ave., prosecuted for insulting Turkish- part to the decline in the value of itary disputes. True enough but from the Turks but attached Greek regard for international law is not NW, Washington DC 20001. Read- ness, the paper said. the British pound and in part to the quite misleading. Not many Ameri- names. He also implies that Turks what is expected by listeners of Na- ers may also want to contact their Quoting a former European reality that if the house has to be can listeners will know that thou- and Greeks have shared the island tional Public Radio. Producers, local NPR affiliate. We would be de- Court of Human Rights judge, sold, the only potential buyers are sands of Greeks were killed during for ages. Schachter elects to use a hosts, and reporters must be held lighted if AHEPA, the various Cypri- Turkey’s Milliyet newspaper said bargain hunters. the Turkish invasion and that hun- fourth of his four-minute report for responsible for creating stories of ot societies, and other organiza- Turkey risked the Greek Cypriot side Schachter finds another Brit dreds of thousands of Greeks and this interview. He has confused re- this nature. Whether the cause is ig- tions joined us in this effort. Now is filing an application with the court who complains about the poor civic Turks were driven from their porting with turning on a micro- norance or conscious bias is irrele- the time to act and not simply which could be accepted. So as to infrastructure and undependable homes. Mullins-Schachter opt to phone and letting anyone with an vant. Perhaps conscious bias would grumble over coffee. avoid being put in a difficult posi- utilities in the Turkish sector. ignore these tragic realities in order extreme opinion speak. Surely a be preferable to ignorance. But the Anyone who wishes to listen to tion, Turkey should act on the infor- Whether she is a tourist or home to focus on how Halumi cheese is more responsible reporter would stories are neither entertaining nor the programs before taking action mation and conduct an investiga- owner is not clear. Of more signifi- marketed. not have wasted precious and ex- informative. can hear them on the following In- tion of its own first, the judge report- cance is that listeners are not in- Cyprus wants the name Halumi pensive airtime on such nonsense. The damage done by these ternet site: www.theworld.org. edly advised. formed that the infrastructure and to be used exclusively for cheese A Greek baker calmly responds broadcasts cannot be undone, but Click to radio program. For the Jan. According to reports, a Turkish utilities in the Greek sector are first made on the island. The rationale is that Halumi was created at the time they must generate an intelligent 26 broadcast, scroll down to Geo prosecutor has initiated an investi- rate. The plight of these Brits is that this particular cheese reflects of the Venetian occupation which and powerful response by Greek Quiz. For the Feb. 2 program, scroll gation into Mr. Olgac’s statements, never linked to their attempted ex- the milk, climate, and soil of the is- occurred over a hundred years ear- Americans. We must demand ac- down to Cyprus Tourism Hurting in as he is obliged by the Geneva Con- ploitation of the island’s ethnic divi- land. This is totally in line with EU lier than the arrival of the Ot- countability and change in NPR’s the Bad Economy. 10 EDITORIALS LETTERS THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009

The National Herald LETTERS TO THE EDITOR A weekly publication of the NATIONAL HERALD, INC. (ΕΘΝΙΚΟΣ ΚΗΡΥΞ), reporting the news and addressing the issues of paramount interest Fr. Karambis may get Special ma doesn’t seem to be aware of just tant to me that others recognize the teachers have to serving the purpose to the Greek American community of the United States of America. Treatment at Spiritual Court how glaring this discrepancy is. It’s struggles-emotionally, financially of enriching lives. Their commit- not just about Greek-Turkish dis- and for the purpose of maintaining ments are not self-serving, but aim Publisher-Editor Antonis H. Diamataris To the Editor: putes. It’s also about having a per- the Greek language-that all teachers for a bigger purpose: for the greater I would like to congratulate you son on the NSC who mirrors the go through. I attended Greek Ameri- good of the Greek American people. Assistant to Publisher, Advertising Veta H. Diamataris Papadopoulos for the in-depth coverage and analy- Bush Administrations views. can school for the majority of my We need to not only find ways to Managing Editor Evan C. Lambrou sis of the issues concerning our Our legislators need to support academic career, and then I enrolled recognize and support our teachers, Assistant Managing Editor Mark Frangos Greek Orthodox Church in America. us on this one, and our communi- in a both public high schools and but we need to always make sure to Production Manager Chrysoula Karametros As a matter of fact you are the only ty’s activists and advocates need to college. I can tell you with all sincer- provide the best learning environ- Webmaster Alexandros Tsoukias credible source of information in the make sure that they do. ity that the teachers I remember ments for our children- one can not The National Herald (USPS 016864) is published weekly by country. Keep up the good work. George Panagiotakos most throughout my life, and the thrive without the other. We should The National Herald Inc. at 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 I would like, however, to take is- Albany, New York ones that had the greatest impact on not forget where we all came from, Tel: (718)784-5255, Fax: (718)472-0510, sue with Mr. Theodore Kalmoukos’ me, were the Greek American teach- and why it is that we are able today e-mail: [email protected] article in the January 31 edition ers from my childhood. In fact, all of to communicate in Greek to our par- Democritou 1 and Academias Sts, Athens, 10671, Greece “Special Synod Held for Archiman- Thanks For Covering And these teachers were not only educa- ents, to our grandparents and to our Tel: 011.30.210.3614.598, Fax: 011.30.210.3643.776, e-mail: [email protected] drite Karambis,” in which he point- Supporting Hellenic Education tors- they turned into family. They family members, here and in ed out that “Fr. Karambis’ defrock- were all so passionate about the sub- Greece. If these teachers didn’t dedi- Subscriptions by mail: 1 year $66.00, 6 months $33.00, 3 months $22.00, 1 month $11.00 ment seems almost certain.” To the Editor: jects they were teaching, they made cate their lives to preserving our lan- Home delivery NY, NJ, CT: 1 year $88.00, 6 months $48.00, 3 months $33.00, 1 month $14.00 We all know by now that The I’d like to extend my gratitude for me passionate to learn as well. I still guage, values, religion and heritage, Home delivery New England States, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland: 1 year $109.00, 6 months $57.00, 3 months $41.00, 1 month $18.00 Herald has excellent sources, but taking the time to focus on the im- keep in touch with one of them, who there’s no telling where we’d be On line subscription: Subscribers to the print edition: 1 year $34.95, 6 months $23.95, from what I gather from speaking to portance of education in your latest not only had me as a student, but now. 3 months $14.95; Non subscribers: 1 year $45.95, 6 months $29.95, 3 months $18.95 a number of friends in the West issue. As someone who comes from taught my mother as well. This Tom Margaritis Coast, do not be so sure that the a family of educators, it’s so impor- proves the deep commitment these Philadelphia, PA Periodical postage paid at L.I.C., N.Y. and additional mailing offices. members of the Synod-Spiritual Postmaster send change of address to: Court will dare to do harm to Fr. THE NATIONAL HERALD, 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 Karambis, let alone to defrock him because he knows things from in- side from his days at the Archdio- cese. Furthermore this same Synod Making us proud had voted for him a few times to be a Bishop, how are they going to re- Harry Markopolos, a brilliant man with rock-hard integrity who for verse themselves and who is going years tried to convince federal authorities, especially the SEC, that dis- to take the lead? I really cannot graced financier Bernard Madoff was running an enormous Ponzi Scheme, imagine Metropolitan Isaiah of Den- testified before Congress this week. His appearance on Capitol Hill was big ver or Iakovos of Chicago, who are news. very close to Fr. Karambis to agree to How could it not be? After all, the Madoff scandal is allegedly the his sanction. But again you never biggest Ponzi Scheme in history, and who else has attempted to expose know. Keep us informed please. Madoff in an effort to save investors and restore the people’s confidence Frank Apostolides but a Greek American? New Jersey This community can truly be proud of this son of ours. In all the years of our presence as a community in this country, we have been blessed with many successful people in all walks of life – business, the arts and politics Obama Does Not Seem To Be – people who have made us all very proud. Aware of Glaring Discrepancy But Harry Markopolos’ case stands out because it brings to light a per- son who personifies the best qualities of Greek America: education, in- tegrity, honor, resolute determination, unpretentious perseverance, and To the Editor: public service. Kudos to the National Herald for The lawmakers were impressed with his testimony on Capitol Hill:"I pointing out in your January 17 ed- would like to just say for the record that I see you as a modern-day Greek itorial that quick action is needed hero," said Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.). concerning the appointment of In a brief conversation with him right after he finished testifying before Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall to the Congress this past Wednesday, he spoke to us about his Greek roots and his National Security Council. relatives in Astoria, and he also told us that he has followed our coverage For all his talk about taking a of his case. We told him how proud we are of him, and that we continue to different foreign policy approach support his efforts. before the election, President Oba- CHRYSANTHI LIRISTIS / SPECIAL TO THE NATIONAL HERALD People like Harry Markopolos make a big difference in our country, and in the Greek American community, and provide the greatest example for our youth to follow. Bravo, Harry. Again, we are very proud of you. COMMENTARY Outburst in Davos Leadership 100: Guiding the Future of Church Ministries When Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan stormed out of a public discussion with Israeli President Shimon Peres at the World Eco- By Paul Mattis have been voiced to meeting these community for the future, say the Archdiocese and the mission of nomic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last week, he took the myth of “mod- Special to The National Herald goals. In a commentary published 2040. Also, a roadmap to take us leadership if interested members erate Muslim leader,” as well as “dependable ally of the United States and in October (“We must take action there and, and committed and ex- would consider creating a self- Israel,” right with him. Leadership 100, formally known before it is too late”, The National perienced leadership who will steer funded sub-group (like the special And yet, some insist that this unprecedented public display of anger, as The Archbishop Iakovos Leader- Herald 10/18/08), I noted Arch- the car. Leadership 100 grant fund men- not befitting a head of a government, should only be seen in the context of ship 100 Endowment Fund, is cele- bishop Demetrios’ goal of moving The Greek Orthodox Church tioned above) in order to move the Mr. Erdogan’s playing to his political interests back home, and does not re- brating its 25th anniversary. The from a “self-centered, self-enclosed and community need an objective, planning process forward. ally reflect his true attitude toward Israel. group is made up of many of the Greek Orthodox Ecclesiastical in-depth, and actionable strategic The funding, time and talent Really? We beg to differ. What more does one have to say or do than most influential and wealthiest Body” to one that needs to go out plan. A strategic plan, as many cler- would not be limited to just Leader- publicly accuse a country of “killing people” to prove that he means what Greek Americans in the country. and “gather God’s people” and ical leaders, laity leaders, and ship 100 but other members of the he says? It would behoove any Greek bring them “home” to the church. members of Leadership 100 know, community. In his uncontrolled display of emotion, Mr. Erdogan said exactly what American, old or young, to read the In order to fulfill the mandate I of- is made up of many components In order to achieve objectivity he believes, and people are kidding themselves if they choose to interpret biographies of its members. The bi- fered a number of actions that which include an analysis of the Leadership 100 might consider re- his remarks otherwise. Moreover, this is not the first time such a mistake ographies are a stunning example might be taken to meet his goal. strengths and weaknesses of the taining and underwriting consul- was made – nor we are afraid it will be the last. of the fulfillment of the American One was to consider incorporating church, supporting organizations, tants who would create the plan As a matter of fact, even though it was clearly the Turkish leader’s worst dream attained through hard work, Holy Cross into a larger University and the national community, as and manage the input of all the par- showing in an international setting, so far, Mr. Erdogan had already crude- family values emphasizing educa- where it would be a part of the Uni- well as the effect of outside forces. ties involved. ly insulted Israel. During the war in Gaza, he had the audacity to call upon tion and support and great intelli- versity but function quasi-indepen- A list of opportunities and threats Some might ask why The Arch- the United Nations to expel Israel. gence. Let me just say that there are dently as a school within a school. that need to be addressed, research diocese might not be the organiza- But what exactly did Mr. Erdogan say to Mr. Peres in Davos? many other Greek Americans who In a thoughtful commentary by into attitudes of present members tion to advance the program. It “When it comes to killing, you know very well how to kill… You had have achieved equal status, to a Dan Georgakas [“The Ethnic and prospective members of the goes without saying that the Arch- prime ministers who said they relish the opportunity to enter Palestinian greater or lesser degree, but are not Church and the Hellenic Identity”, community (I believe the last one diocese would have much to gain lands on tanks… I condemn those who clap for these atrocities, because I members of Leadership 100. The National Herald (12/13/08)] was conducted in 1992), an under- and, of course, would be a most in- think that cheering the murderers of children and humans is a crime The purpose of Leadership 100 the issue of the role and preserva- standing of how our priests see the tegral part of this process. Howev- against humanity… Gilad Atzmon (a Jew himself) says Israeli barbarity is is to support, seed, and nurture tion of Hellenic Identity is dis- church and their suggestions for er, considering that the Archdio- far beyond any usual cruelty. Aside from this, Avi Shlaim, a professor at programs under the National Min- cussed. Professor Georgakas notes improvement, financial analysis cese has limited resources at the Oxford who performed his military duty in the Israeli army, says in the istries of the Greek Orthodox Arch- that with the lack of new immi- and projections, impact and trade present time, both financially and Guardian that Israel has become a rogue state.” diocese which advance Orthodoxy grants, a 70% inter-faith marriage off analysis of major recommenda- in manpower, it would not make In the process, Mr. Erdogan also cited Mr. Peres’ advanced age and and Hellenism in America. In the rate for Greeks who marry in the tions and then the development of sense for it to reside there. chastised him for speaking too loudly out of guilt. He even had the audac- fulfillment of its purpose the en- church, and a shortfall of priests, a vision, strategies and tactics to Leadership has funneled mil- ity to cite Mosaic Law: “The sixth of the Ten Commandments in the Torah dowment fund has committed ap- that “the Greek culture of the support the vision and costs to do lions of dollars into Holy says ‘Thou shalt not kill,’ but in Palestine, people are killed.” proximately $27,000,000 in grants, Church is ebbing away.” He notes so. Cross/Hellenic College and other If that’s not the pot calling the kettle black, we don’t know what is. Mr. of which Holy Cross/Hellenic Col- the “the future, and perhaps even Many members of Leadership Archdiocese ministries. They have Erdogan rails against Israel’s “disproportionate response” to Hamas rocket lege scholarships and various min- the existence, of a viable Greek 100 have successfully undertaken given generously and deserve to attacks, but refuses to acknowledge Turkey’s own crimes against humani- istries of the Archdiocese have been America is at stake.” and accomplished the development measure the success of the efforts ty – e.g., the genocides against Asia Minor’s large Greek and Armenian the beneficiaries of the bulk of the Many other questions have been and implementation of strategic which affect all members of this populations, incursions against the Kurds, or the invasion and ongoing oc- distributions. addressed through the years. Is plans at the very highest level. They great community. cupation of Cyprus. It would be hard to argue a case Hellenism a state of mind? Does have gained success in their chosen The Church and the community The Washington Post moderator tried to get the Turkish Premier to stop for the growth of ministries of the speaking the Greek language make fields through strategic planning face many challenges as a result of with hand gestures and mild physical contact, and then interrupted him. Archdiocese and the Theological you a better Greek Orthodox Chris- and management of large organi- changing demographics, attitudes, In a reactive flash of anger, Mr. Erdogan said, “(pointing at Mr. Peres) he school all these years without the tian? How can we attract more zations. They know how to navi- and other outside forces. Only spoke for 25 minutes, but you only let me speak for 12 minutes. This is not support of Leadership 100, as well priests? Do we have sufficient con- gate in order to avoid pitfalls and through an in-depth analysis and acceptable,” and abruptly stalked off the stage. as many of its members who have tinuing education programs for our detours, and to stay on course and educated agreement of a way for- On his way out, Arab League Chief Amr Mousa stood up and, clearly given personally from their finan- clergy? What is the geographical reach the end of the road. ward can these challenges be ad- appreciative of Mr. Erdogan’s move, shook hands with him. cial largesse. distribution of our churches and do This also requires leadership dressed and turned into opportuni- Mr. Erdogan’s remarks naturally did not go unnoticed. Writing in the The financial crisis in the world we need more or fewer? How can that would have to delicately man- ties and growth. newspaper Yediot, Alon Liel – who served as an Israeli diplomat in Turkey has affected everyone in the past women serve in the ecclesiastical age a wide range of personalities Who was it that said, “If you do and was director of the Israeli Foreign Ministry – reminded readers that, in fifteen months. The Leadership 100 church? and interest groups. Moreover, the not know where you are going, any November 2007, Mr. Peres made history when he addressed the Turkish fund is no exception. But here is the Is our primary goal the one ar- heavy lifting would also be in road will get you there”? Leader- Parliament: “But it was the same Peres who was dealt, along with all of us, good news; after falling below the ticulated by His Eminence “to go achieving agreement and moving ship 100 and its individual mem- a stinging slap on the face by the Turkish Prime Minister, who briefly principal threshold it requires in or- out and gather God’s people”? How the strategic plan into an action bers can make a timely and signifi- turned Davos into the sewer of Istanbul,” he wrote. “It’s true that Israel oc- der to continue to fulfill grant com- can this be accomplished? These plan. cant contribution in guiding the fu- cupied territory, but Turkey is also holding occupied territory. It’s true that mitments, individual members of are all complex questions and just Leadership 100 would have to ture of Orthodoxy and Hellenism in Israel has violated U.N. resolutions, but Turkey has ignored dozens of such the group, inspired by a $250,000 the very tip of the iceberg. determine if it is in their charter to America, not only with its trea- resolutions. It’s true that Israel is far from perfect, but don’t tempt us to challenge grant from Michael Ja- In order to advance Orthodoxy fund a strategic plan. If not, it sures, but now during these diffi- mention all of Turkey’s crimes.” haris, have already raised we need a vision of the church and would be a great contribution to cult times with its time and talent. If nothing else, the debate in Davos clearly proved that Mr. Erdogan has $750,000 toward a $1,000,000 shattered every claim to sound judgment, respectability and reliability as a goal in order to fulfill its commit- leader. He belongs in the same category as people like Hugo Chavez of ments. Venezuela, who commands neither trust nor respect from the internation- This is a good example of indi- al community. vidual members of Leadership 100 Mr. Erdogan’s outburst also amply demonstrates the fickle relations be- helping to sustain important min- Don’t miss... tween Turkey, Israel and the United States, yet presents a significant op- istries of the Archdiocese which, as portunity to re-evaluate and strengthen Greek-Israeli relations, as well as a result of our economic crisis, The National Herald’s relations between Greek and Jewish Americans. could anticipate a possible decline While it is true that the Jewish community has supported Turkey on a in “national ministry commitment number of issues – ranging from the purchase of the latest weapons sys- revenue” better known as “Arch- The tems to the Armenian Genocide – we must not assume that they do so out diocese dues” by parish councils. In of animosity toward Greeks and Greece, but rather as a service to mutual its financial report to the 2008 Cler- interests. Turkey and Israel have had a strategic relationship for a number gy Laity Congress, the Archdiocese of years now. received only 64.4% of its total rev- Given the circumstances, the Jewish American community and the Is- enue in “Archdiocese dues.” 50 raeli Government ought to re-examine Israel’s relationship with Turkey Most if not all members of the and its friendship with Greece. community would like to see the Despite Mark Mazower’s false claims, it has been well-documented that mission of Leadership 100, the ad- Wealthiest the Greeks protected Greek Jews in the most humane way, indeed with vancement of Orthodoxy and Hel- heroic acts, during World War II, and that Greeks respect and recognize lenism in America, to be fulfilled. the formidable talents and success of the Jewish people. But the questions perplexing me Greeks in America And while there are voices in Greece critical of Israel and its policies are; what is the advancement of Or- concerning the Palestinians, these are not official voices, and definitely thodoxy and Hellenism, how is ad- come nowhere near the level of accusatory insult which Mr. Erdogan has vancement measured, and is the been using for quite some time now. goal being achieved? So this is a good time to push for improving Greek-Jewish relations and My observation is that there are Coming in March... lay the foundations for a better working relationship. many different approaches that THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 VIEWPOINTS 11 LETTER FROM ATHENS Simple Truths of the Economy

Fifty years ago, in 1958, I wrote represented the mass nies are not likely to ology. These actions are dictated by a book “Key to Economic Progress.” production part of the borrow money, hire common sense. Acid Attack on Unionist It was published in 27 languages economy. The next side people, and buy sup- Once the mass purchasing power and sold many thousands of copies of the triangle repre- plies to increase their side of the triangle begins to stabi- worldwide. Its main thesis was that sented the mass con- production of goods lize, the government must turn the Shows Depth of Greed a mass-producing economy – such sumption necessary to unless they have a rea- page and create incentives for the as the economy of the United States absorb the products sonable expectation private sector to invest, to borrow, Unless you think salary to which all – couldn’t operate successfully un- and services produced. that their products will to hire people, to accelerate its pro- Konstantina Kuneva, a workers are entitled. less there is mass consumption to And the third side of find buyers -- in other ductive activities. The government 44-year-old Bulgarian So, as she was walking use the products and services pro- the triangle represent- words, unless they can can pass legislation to add tax cuts who made her living in home, she was jumped. duced. And that to have mass con- ed the mass purchasing expect that the second and other incentives to encourage Greece as a cleaning la- Papadakis has no doubt sumption, there must be mass pur- power, the ability of side of the triangle, the private business. Of course, as dy to support her family what happened. “A cir- chasing power, that is, a very large the great majority of by DR. D.G. that of mass consump- the mass purchasing power side - and spoke out against cle of people were af- number of people with money – in- people with money to KOUSOULAS tion is working proper- leads to the stabilization of the mass a system of fraud that fected by her activities come – to buy the products and ser- buy the products. ly. consumption side of the triangle, lets big companies steal (business interests.) vices being produced. A simple Whenever any side of Special to It does not take a the private sector will respond on its from the army of immi- This vitriol revenge is truth? Certainly. It’s simple, but not the triangle got out of The National Herald Nobel laureate in eco- own positively to the improving grants here eking out a something death con- always visible. kilter, the economy nomics to see that conditions because it is in its own living - had sulphuric tractors use,” a phrase For a long time, the American faced trouble. mass consumption cannot take interest to do so. During that stage, acid thrown in her face by ANDY for hired hit men. “It’s a economy and certainly the Now, because of unwise actions place unless people have the money the government should resist pres- and down her throat by DABILIS method used by circles economies even of the most “ad- by major players, especially in the to buy the products and services, in sures to continue its heavy involve- random attackers, you of executors to teach vanced” at the time counties in Eu- financial sector, all three sides of the other words unless there is mass ment in the economy. The role of have to conclude it was Special to people (a lesson”). rope were not mass-producing triangle are out of kilter. And be- purchasing power. the economy should be primarily to a deliberate contracted The National Herald It quieted her col- economies. Those who could buy cause in the last three decades new Obviously, the starting point is to present destabilizing abuses. assault to shut her up. leagues, from places and consume what was produced technology has ushered in the era of restore the mass purchasing side of As the recent misconduct of ven- She said she had received numerous like Albania and Bulgaria, although on a small scale were few – they globalization, the triangle has now the triangle. The question is how? erable financial institutions has re- threats against her life because what some unions have risen up to support were the rich and privileged. The a worldwide dimension. Since the private enterprises are vealed they have the ability to in- she knew would break the chain of her, even as she lies in a bed in Evan- great majority of the people could In this era of globalization, the not likely to take the initiative in the flict serious harm to the economy if greed that rules in Greece, a country gelismos Hospital, her face de- afford only the absolute necessities. economy of the United States, more absence of any assurance that their they act irresponsibly. Reasonable of cartels, from dairies to banks to formed, undergoing treatment and But this did not matter because than ever before, plays a pivotal products and services will find buy- but effective oversight measures communications companies who col- plastic surgery to save what’s left of what was being produced was just role. Therefore, restoring the prop- ers and users, the only entity that have become necessary. Human be- lude to set prices, control the money her life. A group calling itself Solidar- about enough to supply the affluent er functioning of the three compo- has the capacity to jumpstart the ings by nature tend to pursue their and keep workers in bondage. What ity Assembly for Konstantina Kuneva few. nents of the triangle in the United economy is the government. Again interest and their profit. With com- do you think happened? released a statement calling for an Time passed and a little over a States is a pressing need. the question is how? munication technology nullifying Just like Karen Silkwood, the all-out war on big businesses. “State century ago technology ushered in Which side of the triangle should Certainly not by distributing a time and distance, the opportuni- American union activist who blew and corporate heavies loom in street the era of mass production. But be- come first? Even with the most gen- $600 handout or a $1,000 tax re- ties for “legitimate mischief” multi- the whistle on corporate greed and corners and alleyways for us,” it said, ing able to produce massive erous tax incentives, private compa- bate. Those sums cost money to the ply. The old-fashioned incentives malfeasance at an Oklahoma nuclear complaining that Kuneva and the amounts of products was a ques- Treasury but they do not help the are set aside. The rewards of high power plant, and was poisoned by scores of thousands of immigrant tionable blessing unless the produc- economy recover. Some advocate placed executives are not connect- plutonium and run off a road in her workers in Greece are being held er could sell the products. Cars tax incentives for enterprises. But ed to the real success and prof- car and killed in 1974, Kuneva had hostage by businesses, with the silent rolling out at the end of the assem- companies will not be influenced by itability of the financial institutions the guts to do what alleged tough complicity of the government. Kune- bly line meant no profit for the car lower taxes at the present stage. they manage. guys in Greece were afraid to do: va had complained to everyone in manufactured if they remained un- They pay taxes on their profits and The free market is the best eco- stare down the thieves who run busi- power, including the Ministry of sold, rusting in the company’s park- they cannot have profits if they have nomic system. But, just as unbridled nesses in Greece and steal from the Labour, and Minister of Employment ing lot. When John Ford raised the no buyers for their products. political license is harmful to the working poor, mostly immigrants at Fani Palli-Petralia, whose response wages of his workers because he The most effective way is to cre- functioning of a democracy, in the the mercy of their employers and a has been a big yawn because she wanted them to be able to buy his ate employment in those areas of same way unbridled economic li- government that doesn’t really want doesn’t care, as well as other union cars, he had hit the nail on the head. production that normally are the re- cense is destabilizing to the econo- them here. The acid-in-the-face re- groups, like the General Confedera- Gradually, and not always sponsibility of government agencies my. The ancient Greeks had a word, sponse to a courageous woman who tion of Workers. None are interested smoothly, the incomes of people in- –such as military procurement, in- rather two words, for it, Μηδεν wasn’t cowed by the cleaning compa- in immigrants or the corporate ter- creased and a new social class frastructure such as roads, bridges, Αγαν, Nothing In Excess. rorism used against them, because emerged: the middle class. Where government installations and build- the cleaners do the dirty work for the in the past were only a few rich and ing etc, or hiring teachers to im- Dr. Kousoulas is Professor The people on the working-class and they are invisible, a multitude of poor, now there were prove education. The first priority, Emeritus of Political Science at other line demanded people to be stepped over while they millions with incomes that enabled however, is for labor-intensive pro- Howard University in she stop her labor are tidying the stairs and toilets of them to afford to buy what the jects, so that the largest possible Washington, DC. He is the author people whose cups are already over- economy produced. number of people will begin to of several books, notably "The union activities or filled but don’t mind feeding from the In the book, I had presented this draw a paycheck. Life and Times of Constantine the otherwise she would powerless. economic process in the form of a Thisa is the “jumpstart” phase of Great (1999)," and numerous

be in trouble. Because much of the Greek media triangle. One side of the triangle HERALD CHRYSANTHI LIRISTIS / SPECIAL TO THE NATIONAL the process. It is not a matter of ide- scholarly articles. is in the pockets of politicians too, the nies who force immigrants to sign story hasn’t received all the attention blank contracts, and then pay them it deserved, although the Athens less than the businesses report to the News took it on and reported that the government - a scam that Tony So- chairwoman of the cleaners' union in prano would have envied -came two Attica, Vlasia Papathanasi, said that Teaching Greek as a Second Language: Total Immersion days before Christmas and left her Kuneva "had been receiving threaten- blind in one eye, with blurred vision ing phone calls. The people on the By Helen Dumas this - "When is my child ready to start being able to learn additional lan- well-being of their very young stu- in the other, unable to speak, and other line demanded she stop her la- Special to The National Herald learning Greek?" guages. dents. damage down to her intestines. It on- bor union activities or otherwise she A growing body of brain research Based on this groundbreaking re- For very young children – infants ly took two hired goons to do that, would be in trouble.” The paper re- "Start your children early. Start being done is finding that infants can search, Francois Thibaut, founder and toddlers – written materials can and they must have been proud of ported her testimony was a key part them from their first birthday or more easily learn a second language and director of the Language Work- be found in phonetic and visual form, themselves, although if there’s any of an investigation conducted by Pan- even earlier"! These are my two fa- if they are exposed to it during the shop for Children on Manhattan’s and there are programs very much justice they will wind up dead, teion University Professor George vorite sentences from Greek lan- time that their brains are being Upper-East Side, has established a like the well known Mommy and Me pushed down the stairs by a cleaning Kouzis into the malpractices of con- guage seminars that I taught 25 “hard-wired” and, even before they language center with unbelievable curriculum found all over the United lady somewhere. tractors who hire cleaners for public years ago, when I was first appointed are able to talk. Researchers have success. Mothers and nannies are States. We, too can reach out and No telling who they are, since she businesses and hospitals. Pap- the Director of Hellenic Education found that up until their first birth- strolling in their infants by the hun- find the best sources for teaching ma- can only write what they looked like, athanasi said, “Most of the time when and Culture for the Western United day, infants are able to hear and re- dreds – convinced that their babies terials based on this new research on and the Greek police, who couldn’t we sign a contract for a cleaning job, States, under the Metropolis of San spond to phonetic variations in lan- really can learn a second language how children really learn languages - find a dog in a kennel and are just we do not receive the money agreed Francisco. These are still my two fa- guages. Why is this so important? more easily if they are exposed to it from Dr. Papaloizos’ series of books about as corrupt as the companies upon … we sign a contract for 600 vorite sentences, now some 25 years Because that early exposure gives before they learn to talk. to my own Speak Greek for Kids -- to they protect, are taking the O.J. euros per month so that the contrac- later! children a big head start in being In 1985, Helen Doron, an interna- DVDs, music, games and flash cards – Simpson approach, looking for her tor appears to be legitimate by allo- It’s amazing given how dramati- able to speak the language that they tionally renowned linguist, founded to the very popular Muzzy and Baby attackers on every golf course in cating us the lowest basic wage, but cally times have changed, research heard during this very early time. It the Early Child Development Centre. Einstein. Greece. That is to say they are doing we only get 350 euros per month. has changed, trends have changed gives them the gift of being able to Her early English learning for chil- If we want to be proud of a job worse than nothing. Her lawyer, Many cleaners working in hospitals and parents' goals for their children's learn a second language more spon- dren starting from the age of only well done in preserving and perpetu- Kostas Papadakis – who wasn’t al- have been sacked as they tried to de- education have changed. Twenty taneously – in much the same way three months has been an unquali- ating the Greek language, and if we lowed access to their half-assed re- nounce their contracts by notifying five years ago, parents were not re- that someone naturally learns their fied success for over 20 years, with want our children to be able to speak port, which was so bad a prosecutor the labour inspectorate." ceptive to the "total immersion" native language. nearly half a million babies, toddlers Greek, let’s follow the footsteps of sent it back as “incomplete” - said While the attack silenced most method, and "early start" was a con- Researchers have found that and children throughout the world the people who have succeeded in they haven’t even bothered to contact cleaning workers, her support group cept for pre-school and not Greek brains of very young children are who have learned languages using teaching other languages with the witnesses who gave initial state- said it wouldn’t be. “When they mess school. Most parents were happy to better equipped to learn a new lan- Helen’s system. greatest success. What I recommend ments. “All the neighbors are afraid with one of us, they mess with all of start casually teaching their children guage than the brains of older chil- It is about time that we, the teach- today, is what I recommended 25 of retaliation by these people, and it’s us,” it said, vowing to keep up the Greek around the age of 6. When dren and adults. For those of us who ers of the Greek language (as well as years ago before researchers knew an impediment to the investigation,” pressure on the cleaning companies. they did teach them Greek, they fo- tried to learn Spanish or French for principals, educators, and heads of what they know today: Do your he said in an interview, being kind, Let’s hope so, because the bravest cused most on reading and transla- the first time in high school, we can Greek Orthodox parishes) turn to children a favor and start teaching because there is no real investigation, woman in Greece is lying in a hospi- tion of the language. Today, howev- easily remember how difficult it was this new body of groundbreaking re- them the Greek language as infants just a whitewash. tal bed, probably unable to ever er, with most children coming from to start learning a new language as a search and examples such as Helen and toddlers. As they grow up and Kuneva, who was general secre- speak again, a curious condition English-speaking families (especially teenager. Because young children Doron’s and Francois Thibaut’s. continue their studies, these children tary of the Panattic Union of Cleaners since her voice will resound wherev- on the West Coast), the parents have use a different part of their brains to Both Helen and Francois realized will later be able to learn Greek as and Domestic Personnel, was a mili- er a worker is being trod upon. Now shifted their objectives and now ask acquire language, it gives them the that the standard teaching methods easily as they were able to learn Eng- tant organizer, a fearless campaigner it’s their turn to speak for her. me to… "Please teach my child to ability to more easily recall words and materials were outdated and let lish. The key is “early total immer- who took on the corporate cowards speak our language, and I will be and to effortlessly form grammati- children down by focusing merely on sion”! hiding behind their friends in politics. Mr. Dabilis was the New England happy". cally correct sentences. What is most the mechanics of reading, writing She exposed a common secret in editor for United Press Interna- Since speaking the Greek lan- striking is the rate at which young and translating without grasping Helen Dumas is Former Director of Greece, that immigrant cleaning tional in Boston, and a staff writer guage has become the first and most children can learn a new language. that the basis of language acquisition the Hellenic Education and Cul- ladies are held as legal slaves by big and assistant metropolitan editor important phase of the learning As an additional educational bonus, is in fact achieved through under- ture of the Metropolis of San Fran- companies who are hired by their at the Boston Globe for 17 years process, the next question parents scientists have found that when a standing and speaking. Both be- cisco. friends who give them contracts for before relocating to Greece. His from all over the world ask me multi- child learns a second language at a came committed to creating compre- public buildings. The last straw for column is published weekly in the ple times a day via my website on the very young age, his brain becomes hensive learning systems that of- her enemies came when she de- National Herald. Readers interest- Internet (www.speakgreeknow.com), far more flexible, making the child fered a fun, lively learning environ- Andre Gerolymatos is off this manded they pay the cleaning work- ed in contacting him can send e- on the telephone and in person at St. even better prepared to do well in ment that stimulated the emotional, week. ers their Christmas bonus, a month’s mails to [email protected]. Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles is school in all their subjects, as well as physical, creative, and intellectual Are we Greeks or are we Hellenes?

By Dan Georgakas thropy. This is true for various other to Hellenes as “slaves” or “servants.” an evocation of the aftermath of the jor factor in their teaching. These ing Center in Illinois. The Greek Or- Special to The National Herald word choices in this religiously his- This usage, however, did not have a Ottoman pillage of Chios. The origi- academics usually use Hellenism to thodox Church administers Hellenic toric text. significant impact on English-speak- nal sculpture, unveiled in 1847 convey a universal College, but its youth group is Greek In a pre-Christmas letter to this American examples of the mean- ers. would be reproduced five more philosophical/cultural tradition that Orthodox Youth of America. Rather paper, George A. Rados raises the is- ing of words changing include “cow- By the time of the romantic poets times for mass exhibition and came is rooted in the culture of the an- than indicating some confusion sue of why we refer to ourselves as boy” and “Yankee Doodle Dandy.” of the late eighteenth and early nine- to symbolize absolute rejection of cients. In contrast, calling some trait about identity or communal schizo- Greeks, originally a derogatory term, The now iconic “cowboy” was origi- teenth centuries, “Greek” and slavery everywhere, including Amer- a Greekism is more specific. It almost phrenia, this mixed usage exempli- rather than as Hellenes. He rightly nally a derogatory term that identi- “Greece” were terms of respect in ica. always refers to a relatively modern fies a sophisticated community com- points out that the Greek designa- fied freed slaves who tended cattle. Great Britain. The most famous po- What this and related history es- phenomenon linked to contempo- fortable enough to select the name it tion first arose during the Roman Whites were referred to as “ranch em of John Keats is titled “Ode to a tablish is that among English-lan- rary Greek culture. That association finds most suitable for any specific conquest as part of the effort of the hands.” “Yankee Doodle Daddy” be- Grecian (not Hellenic) Urn.” Lord guage speakers, “Greek” is not em- can be either positive or negative. project. Romans to impose their cultural gan as a British slur against restless Byron who gave his life in the war of ployed as a derogatory term. If we Mixed usage has long been a hall- George Rados is disturbed that dominance. This concern about American colonialists. The colonists independence also used “Greek” in wanted to change common usage mark of Greek American life. English we compliantly refer to ourselves what we should call ourselves peri- adapted the word as a humorous his poetry. from “Greeks” to “Hellenes,” we always has been the organizational as Greeks. He feels that this situa- odically surfaces in the Greek Ameri- self-description. When Americans in- The highly positive popular reac- would first have to explain to our fel- language of the American Hellenic tion should not be blamed on the can community. There is an explana- tervened in World War I as an ally of tion in America to the Greek struggle low citizens (including most Greek Educational Progressive Association Romans, Franks, Easterners, West- tion based on linguistic evolution, Britain, one of the most popular against the Ottomans is termed the Americans) that a word that they use while Greek was the organizational erners, or any other outside force. but a more important question may songs of the era began, “I’m Yankee Greek Fever. In correspondence positively has a negative genesis. language of the Greek American Pro- He says, “It’s us.” While clearly in- be on what issues we should be intel- Doodle Dandy.” about the war between Thomas Jef- Then what? Do we begin to footnote gressive Association. Our three lead- fused with a love of Hellenic cul- lectually and politically focused. The process described above ap- ferson and Andamantios Korais, phil-Hellenes like Keats and Jeffer- ing academic journals are titled: ture, such sentiments do not take Contemporary linguists have es- plies to the use of the word “Greek” both use “Greek” more often than son to alert readers that the writers “Journal of the Hellenic Diaspora,” into account how the meaning of tablished that certain words retain and its related linguistic manifesta- “Hellenic.” The term ”Greek” also did not mean to be offensive? Such a “Journal of Modern Greek Studies,” individual words changes. “Greeks” their original meaning while other tions. Negative connotations of one was used almost exclusively in hun- project doesn’t strike me as being and “Journal of Modern Hellenism.” may have been a derogatory term words experience subtle or even ab- kind or another continued in Europe dreds of American poems and news- useful, much less practical. Fifteen of our ethnic radio pro- in the Roman Empire and the Span- solute changes in meaning. The King through to at least the fifteenth cen- paper articles supporting the strug- English-speakers, in any case, al- grams use Greek in their title and ish Armada, but those times are James Version of the Bible, perhaps tury. The logbooks of the Spanish gle. Daniel Webster, Sam Houston, ready are free to use Hellenic, Hellas, thirteen used Hellenic. The same long gone. Greek is now a much the most read text in the English lan- navy often used “griego” or “greco” Henry Clay, and then-president and Hellenes whenever they wish, holds true for various community honored word. The reason for that guage, speaks of “faith, hope, and to identify sailors who were consid- James Madison gave ardent support and they do so frequently. Most com- groups. For example, there is a Hel- positive association is not the Ro- charity.” But in the time of the trans- ered no better than nameless riffraff, to the “Greek” cause. The first major mon of all is mixed usage. Thus, our lenic Nursing and Rehabilitation mans, Franks, Westerners, or the lation from Hebrew was made, whatever their ethnic heritage. The sculpture to tour the United States twenty-odd Modern Greek Studies Center in Massachusetts and a Greek Easterners; it’s us. Job well done, “charity” meant love, not philan- Ottomans often used Greek to refer was Hiram Powers’ The Greek Slave, programs feature Hellenism as a ma- American Rehabilitation and Nurs- my fellow Hellenes. 12 TOURISM THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 7, 2009 'The Odyssey' and 'The Iliad' are giving up new secrets about the ancient world

By Jonathan Gottschall though not necessarily the key that proper layer of the Hisarlik mound, fought. kingdoms of the Late Bronze Age, win them. This is exactly what we The Boston Globe Homer's readers once thought they the settlement he found seemed In his influential book, "Troy and when the war would have taken find in Homer. Homeric men fight were being given. like a wretched and insignificant Homer," German classicist Joachim place. over many different things, but vir- "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" place. Schliemann's amateurism, Latacz argues that the identifica- But even if the epics make a bad tually all of the major disputes cen- NEARLY 3,000 YEARS after the are our most precious artifacts of wishful thinking, and instinct for tion of Hisarlik as the site of history of Greece in 1200 BC - in ter on rights to women - not only death of the Greek poet Homer, his early Greek culture. Aside from the self-glorification had led him into Homer's Troy is all but proven. Lat- the sense of transmitting names, the famous conflict over Helen, but epic tales of the war for Troy and its dry and voiceless remains of arche- serious error, and ended up dis- acz's case is based not only on dates, and accurate political details also over the slave girls Briseis and aftermath remain deeply woven in- ological sites, the poems are the crediting his claim that Homer's po- archeology, but also on fascinating - scholars increasingly agree that Chryseis, Odysseus's wife Penelope, to the fabric of our culture. These last surviving impressions of the so- ems were historically based. reassessments of cuneiform tablets they provide a precious window on and all the nameless women of stories of pride and rage, massacre ciety that created them - what the But the newest digging at Troy is from the Hittite imperial archives. Greek culture at about the time the common Trojan men. As the old and homecoming have been trans- people hoped for, what they de- tipping the consensus again, per- The tablets, which are dated to the poems were finally written down. counselor Nestor shouts to the lated and republished over millen- spaired of, and how they managed haps this time for good. Schlie- period when the Late Bronze Age Moses Finley, who believed that the Greek hosts, "Don't anyone hurry to nia. Even people who have never their social and political lives. The mann and Blegen, it now appears, city at Hisarlik was destroyed, tell a epics were "no guide at all" to the return homeward until after he has read a word of "The Iliad" or "The poems are time machines - imper- had only discovered the tip of the story of a western people harassing history of the Trojan War, did be- lain down alongside a wife of some Odyssey" know the phrases they fect, surely - that show us people iceberg. The mound at Hisarlik a Hittite client state on the coast of lieve they were guides to Homer's Trojan!" have bequeathed to us - the Trojan who were so like us, and so differ- thrusts up from the plain, but most Asia Minor. The Hittite name for own culture. And by turning an an- The war between Greeks and horse, the Achilles heel, the face ent, too. And they are still revealing of its ruins are concealed beneath the invading foreigners is very thropological eye to the conflicts Trojans ends in the Rape of Troy: that launched a thousand ships. new truths about the prehistoric the surface. In a project that has close to Homer's name for his Homer writes about, we are now the massacre of men, and the rape Today we still turn to Homer's civilization that has exerted such a now been Greeks - Achaians - and the Hittite learning far more about what that and abduction of women. These epics not only as sources of ancient strong formative influence over the names for their harassed ally are culture was really like. events are not the rare savageries wisdom and wrenchingly powerful art, the history, and even the psy- very close to "Troy" and "Ilios," . . . of a particularly long and bitter war poetry, but also as genuinely popu- chology of the West. Homer's names for the city. Reconstructing a prehistoric - they are one of the major points of lar entertainments. Recent transla- . . . "At the very core of the world from literary sources is rife the war. Homeric raiders always tions of "The Iliad" and "Odyssey" The desire to find truth tale," Latacz argues, with complications. But there are hoped to return home with new have shared the best-seller lists in Homer has a long "Homer's 'Iliad' has aspects of life in the Homeric era slave-concubines. Achilles conveys with Grisham and King. "The and checkered histo- shed the mantle of upon which most scholars agree. this in his soul-searching assess- Odyssey" has inspired works from ry, and no figure fiction common- Homer paints a coherent picture of ment of his life as warrior: "I have James Joyce's "Ulysses" to a George looms larger than ly attributed to Greek attitudes, ideology, customs, spent many sleepless nights and Clooney movie, and an adaptation the German busi- it." manners, and mores that is consis- bloody days in battle, fighting men of "The Iliad" recently earned more nessman and But if the tent with the 8th century archeo- for their women." than $100 million in the form of self-taught Trojan War logical record, and holds together Historical studies of literature Wolfgang Petersen's "Troy" - a sum- archeologist is looking based on anthropological knowl- are sometimes criticized for ignor- mer blockbuster starring Brad Pitt Heinrich more and edge about societies at similar lev- ing, or even diminishing, the artis- as an improbable Achilles. Schliemann. more like els of cultural development. For in- tic qualities that draw people to lit- The ancient Greeks, however, In 1870 he a histori- stance, we can trust that the erature in the first place. But un- believed that Homer's epics were landed on cal reali- Greeks' political organization was derstanding how real history un- something more than fiction: They the western ty, there loose but not chaotic - probably or- derlies the epics makes us appreci- thought the poems chronicled a re- coast of Asia is still ganized at the level of chiefdoms, ate Homer's art more, not less. We al war, and reflected the authentic Minor (mod- the ques- not kingdoms or city-states. In the can see Homer pioneering the artis- struggles of their ancestors. But ern day tion of epics we can see the workings of an tic technique of taking a backbone modern scholars have generally Turkey) with whether agrarian economy; we can see what of historical fact and fleshing it been more skeptical. The poems a copy of the po- animals they raised and what over with contemporary values and describe a culture that thrived hun- "The Iliad" in ems tell us crops, how they mixed their wine, concerns - the same technique used dreds of years before Homer was his hand. On anything worshipped their gods, and treated later by Virgil in "The Aeneid," by born, and which would have the plain before about the their slaves and women. We can tell Shakespeare in his history plays, seemed legendary even to him. him, an unim- motives and that theirs was a warlike world, and by Renaissance painters de- Scholars have allowed that a kernel pressive mound thinking of the with high rates of conflict within picting the Bible and classical an- of historical truth might be tucked of grass and stone people who ac- and between communities. tiquity. beneath the layers of heroic hyper- and bushes swelled tually fought it. This violence, in fact, opens an And understanding Homer's bole and poetic embroidery, but on- 100 feet into the air. Do the epic time important window onto that world. own society gives us a new perspec- ly a small kernel. In the last 50 Tradition had long iden- machines actually Patterns of violence in Homer are tive on the oppressive miasma of years, most scholars have sided tified this mound, called take us back to the intriguingly consistent with soci- fatalism and pessimism that per- with the great classicist Moses Fin- Hisarlik, as a possible site of Greek culture of the Late eties on the anthropological record vades "The Iliad" and, to a lesser ley, who argued that the epics were the historical Troy. Bronze Age? known to have suffered from acute but still palpable extent, "The "a collection of fictions from begin- Schliemann soon reported to It is almost certain that they do shortages of women. While Homer- Odyssey." While even the fiercest ning to end" and that - for all their the world, breathlessly, that he and not. Homer's epics are a culmina- ic men did not take multiple wives, fighters understand that peace is majesty and drama - they were "no his diggers had found the charred Achilles and Patroclus. tion of a centuries-long tradition of they hoarded and guarded slave desirable, they feel doomed to end- guide at all" to the civilization that remains of a grand citadel de- oral storytelling, and extensive women who they treated as their less conflict. As Odysseus says, may have fought the Trojan War. stroyed in prehistory by hostile underway for 20 years, the German cross-cultural studies of oral litera- sexual property. These women "Zeus has given us [the Greeks] the But thanks to evidence from a men - that he had found Troy just archeologist Manfred Korfmann ture have established that such were mainly captured in raids of fate of winding down our lives in range of disciplines, we are in the where Homer said it would be. The and hundreds of collaborators have tales are unreliable as history. neighboring towns, and they ap- hateful war, from youth until we middle of a massive reappraisal of news was a worldwide sensation, discovered a large lower city that Homeric scholars believe that the pear frequently in Homer. In the perish, each of us." A shortage of these foundational works of West- and Schliemann's view that the surrounded the citadel. Using new epics were finally written down poems, Odysseus is mentioned as women helps to explain more ern literature. Recent advances in Homeric epics were fairly accurate tools, such as computer modeling sometime in the 8th century BC, having 50 slave women, and it is about Homeric society than its re- archeology and linguistics offer the chronicles of Late Bronze Age his- and imaging technology that al- which means that the stories of slave women who bear most of lentless violence. It may also shed strongest support yet that the Tro- tory - that is, the Greek world of lows them to "see" into the earth Achilles and Odysseus would have King Priam's 62 children. For every light on the origins of a tragic and jan War did take place, with evi- around 1200 BC - dominated schol- before digging, Korfmann and his been passed by word of mouth for slave woman working a rich man's pessimistic worldview, a pantheon dence coming from the large exca- arship for more than 50 years. colleagues determined that this half a millennium before they were loom and sharing his bed, some less of gods deranged by petty vanities, vation at the likely site of Troy, as But, in fact, Schliemann hadn't city's borders were 10 to 15 times finally recorded in what was, by fortunate or formidable man lacks and a people's resignation to the in- well as new analysis of cuneiform found Homer's Troy. Hisarlik was larger than previously thought, and then, a vastly changed Greek cul- a wife. evitability of "hateful war." tablets from the dominant empire occupied from 3000 BC until 500 that it supported a population of ture. Facts about the war and the In pre-state societies around the of the region. Insights from com- AD, and subsequent archeological 5,000 to 10,000 - a big city for its people who fought it would have world - from the Yanomamo of the Jonathan Gottschall teaches Eng- parative anthropology have trans- excavations showed that the civi- time and place, with impressive de- been lost or grossly distorted, as in Amazon basin to the tribes of high- lish at Washington & Jefferson formed studies of the society that lization Schliemann chipped from fenses and an underground water a centuries-long game of "tele- land New Guinea to the Inuit of the College. He is the author of "The created the poems and allowed us the mound actually ended more system for surviving sieges. And, phone." Scholars agree that the rel- Arctic - a scarcity of women almost Rape of Troy: Evolution, Vio- to analyze the epics in a new way, than 1,000 years before the Trojan critically, the city bore signs of be- atively simple and poor culture invariably triggers pitched compe- lence, and the World of Homer," suggesting that their particular pat- War could realistically have been ing pillaged and burned around Homer describes in his epics is tition among men, not only directly and he is currently at work on a terns of violence contain a hidden fought. When the German archeol- 1200 BC, precisely the time when quite sharply at odds with the com- over women, but also over the novel of the Homeric age called key to ancient Greek history - ogist Carl Blegen examined the the Trojan War would have been plex and comparatively rich Greek wealth and social status needed to "Odysseus, A True Story." Mediterranean Cruise Line’s New Unique Itineraries

By Spud Hilton Fares for each start at $2,290 San Francisco Chronicle per person and include taxes, trans- lators and (gasp!) most drinks with Small-ship cruises typically are meals, including wine and ouzo. many things that their big-ship The Jewels of the Cyclades trip is counterparts are not - more inti- similar to the Classical Greece, but mate, more exploratory and more it uses the older, masted Galileo educational. Rarely, however, are and fares start at $1,450. they less expensive. More important, the single sup- That said, Variety Cruises, a plement is just 50 percent, meaning family-owned small-ship line in single travelers pay just three-quar- Greece, is starting to market its ters of the doubles price instead of weeklong Greek island and Red Sea the full amount. cruises to North Americans and, Variety is an appropriate name, while the fares are not as cheap as a considering the fleet: The 10 ships Western Caribbean cruise on Carni- used for regular itineraries range val, most are a bargain considering from 17 to 36 cabins, and include a the region and size of ship. traditional wooden schooner, sail- Variety, started in 1949 as an "educational ferry" by the father of the current owner, now runs more than a dozen ships on more than a dozen itineraries through the Aegean and Ionian seas. (Also, starting last month, the 32-passen- ger Harmony V began sailing up the Red Sea with stops in Aqaba, Jordan; Taba and Sharm el Sheikh, Sinai; and Safaga and Hurghada, Kefalonia, the Island of Seafarers Egypt.) Most notable about the service B.C. News the unique Venetian style, the soft land. was born but, on a rocky promonto- (other than the prices) is that the pastel buildings giving the impres- The road spirals up the cedar ry at Fiskardo (once the hideaway ships arrive later and stay longer in When Juan de Fuca sailed his sion of a watercolor painting. and pine-covered mountainsides, of renegade pirates), I explored the the ports, giving passengers an op- ship up the Pacific Coast into the On the main street, there’s a mu- and winds past villages of stone- ruins of a Venetian castle that com- portunity to experience the culture straits now named for him, I wonder seum exhibiting pictures of the built houses tucked in the protec- manded the entrance to the town’s at night - often when the real cul- ing boats, a Greek schooner, a "steel if he felt a pang of homesickness for town before and after the quake. tive folds of the mountains. harbor. ture is thriving and after the op- motor sailer" and a couple of sleek, his native home, Kefalonia, Greece. As I hiked along the windy Along the route, you see the ru- As I watched the fishing kaikis pressive hordes from the other modern mega-yachts. (The compa- Juan de Fuca, whose real name shoreline to the Fenari — a replica ins Venetian fortresses and castles. and yachts ply the narrow channel ships have sailed off. (Passengers ny has 15 ships in total, five of was Iannis Focus, was born in Kefalo- of a Venetian lighthouse — I was Kefalonia is known for its unique that separates Kefalonia from the get breakfast and one other daily which range from four to six cabins nia during the reign of the Venetians greeted by the friendly locals. forest of rare fir trees called Abies rugged, mountainous shores of meal, which is Variety's not-so-sub- and sail private group charters.) in 1550, and later went to sea in the Both English and Italian are spo- Cefalonica. nearby Ithaka, Odysseus’ island, I tle way of encouraging you to get Three of the company's ships service of Spain on a quest to find the ken here and you can count on the The air is redolent with the fra- could not help but think of all the out, explore and discover local cui- sail under the banner of Zeus Casu- passage that links the Pacific and At- island folk to strike up a conversa- grance of sage, thyme, bayleaf and mariners who have ventured from sine at a chic restaurant or funky al Cruises, an arm of Variety that is lantic oceans. tion. oregano. these shores, especially Juan de Fu- taverna - arguably one of the most less expensive and more, well, ca- When his expedition failed, the The wind gusted and howled, Tall cypresses stand straight and ca, the Kefalonian who sailed to the fun ways to experience local cul- sual. The "simple yet well-appoint- king of Spain refused to pay him, so churning the Bay with whitecaps. elegant, their dark green a contrast Pacific Northwest. ture.) ed motor yachts" fit 34 to 50 people he returned to this island paradise to As I watched a little ferryboat to the silvery olive trees. He and I have spanned one an- The company's bread and butter and ply the Ionian Sea east of live out the rest of his life. tossed like balsa wood as it strug- Did de Fuca feel nostalgic for his other’s worlds. is visiting iconic Greek fishing vil- Greece (the Italian side of Greece, I went on an expedition of my gled against the waves, I was re- island homeland as he cruised IF YOU GO: lages, Roman ruins, volcanic is- geographically and culturally), as own to explore de Fuca’s island. minded of the “iron grey sea” de- along the Pacific Northwest coast? Buses leave the Kifissou Street lands, Medieval towns and impossi- well as a few groups of lesser- My voyage took me by ferry from scribed by Homer in The Odyssey. Our coastal islands enjoy a depot in Athens several times a day bly scenic and secluded beaches known islands off Turkey. Zeus Patras to the little port of Sami and This island was once part of Mediterranean micro-climate simi- for the ports of Sami, Argostoli, typically available only to small- stops on the Ionian Sea trips in- then by bus to Argostoli, the modern Odysseus’ kingdom. lar to Kefalonia. Lixour and Poros, via the ferry from ship cruises. The main routes are clude Corfu, Paxi, Lefkas, Ithaka, capital of Kefalonia — a pretty town From antiquity until the present, Herons, kingfishers and gulls Patras. Aegean Odyssey (with stops in Ma- Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Parga and with a harbor esplanade lined with Kefalonians have been masters of swoop from the rocky cliffs. The trip takes eight hours. rina Zea, Kea, Folegandros, Samos, Sivota. The Grecian Delights itiner- yachts and fishing vessels. the sea. There are more than 1,000 An island bus provides service to Patmos, Santorini and Mykonos, as ary includes stops in Kalymnos, A devastating earthquake flat- Much of the island’s coastline is species of plants on Kefalonia, some any of the scenic villages and beach- well as Kusadasi in Turkey), and Kos, Nissiros, Symi, Halki and Lin- tened most of Kefalonia’s villages in rugged with steep limestone cliffs rare, including 50 species of wild es. the Classical Greece trip, with some dos. 1953, including all the elegant build- that plunge into the sea and miles of orchids. Accommodation is available in of the same stops, as well as Naf- For more information, visit ings that used to grace Argostoli. white and red sand beaches. Time seems to have erased the hotels and pension. Campsites are plio, Spetses, Monemvasia, www.varietycruises.com or con- The new town has been rebuilt in I took a bus trip to explore the is- village of Valeriano, where de Fuca located at Argostoli and Sami. Rethymno and Heraklion. tact a travel agent.