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. 11, ISSUE 540 February 16, 2008 $1.00 GREECE: 1.75 EURO Dora Meets Major Institutions Combine Efforts to Halt Macedonia Name Use With Rice Campaign Asks Citizens to Contact Congress In DC About for Support Against FYROM in Name Dispute By Stavros Marmarinos also discussed the Greek position on Special to The National Herald F.Y.R.O.M.’s bid to enter NATO and The Issues the European Union, and stressed NEW YORK – All of the major Greek that Greece has been very clear American institutions are mustering about the stance it will adopt. He States Greek Positions up their strength for a concerted pointed to the good will and concil- campaign aimed to prevent iatory spirit Greece has shown dur- On FYROM, Kosovo Greece’s northern neighbor ing discussions with F.Y.R.O.M. over F.Y.R.O.M. from using the name the name dispute between them. And Balkans At CSIS “Macedonia,” which has been Negotiations have been periodically adopted by the latter as its constitu- ongoing for the past 15 years, dur- By Evan C. Lambrou tional name and used increasingly ing which Greece has made numer- Special to The National Herald in its bilateral relations with other ous good faith attempts to reach a countries. The coming weeks are mutually acceptable solution. NEW YORK – Greek Foreign Minis- likely to give rise to critical develop- “Greece is aware of the great re- ter Dora Bakoyanni was in Wash- ments in this diplomatic dispute sponsibility it holds as a member of ington this past week meeting with which has remained unsolved since NATO and the European Union,” senior U.S. officials about the ongo- 1991, when the fledgling Balkan Ambassador Mallias said. “Unfortu- ing name dispute with FYROM, and state first declared independence nately, today F.Y.R.O.M. continues restated the Greek position: Greece from former Yugoslavia. Greece’s to show intransigence and provoke will not consent to admitting the Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyanni Greece through its actions. The U.S. small Balkan country to NATO or will spearhead this diplomatic cam- Government’s recognition of our the European Union unless and un- paign during her official visit to northern neighbor under the name til FYROM agrees to a mutually ac- Washington, D.C. this week. “Republic of Macedonia,” on No- ceptable name for itself. The heads of major Greek Amer- vember 4, 2004 has likely been in- FYROM, the Former Yugoslav ican organizations issued state- terpreted by the current F.Y.R.O.M. Republic of Macedonia, insists on ments to The National Herald call- Administration as a show of uncon- being recognized as the “Republic ing on Greek American citizens to ditional support. Greece is deter- of Macedonia,” but Greece is equal- immediately contact their local mined to protect its national inter- ly insistent about not letting that Congressmen or Senators and ask ests and it has the capabilities to do come to pass at the international them to support Greece’s position in so. Our position is clear. We need a level. Athens does not want to al- this ongoing name dispute with compound name. The agreed solu- low Skopje (Skopia) to use a histor- F.Y.R.O.M. Meanwhile, following an tion must genuinely solve the dis- ically Greek name, arguing that is initiative launched by AHEPA, pute, not muddle things further. tantamount to hijacking Greek cul- Greek lobbyists will have a chance Greece made a great leap towards a tural identity. TNH ARCHIVES to meet with members of Congress compromise when our country’s Greece maintains that, if FY- Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, right, met with United States Secretary of State Condoleezza on March 6th to advance the Greek ROM gets its way, it also opens the Rice, left, and other top officials during a three day meeting in Washington from February 13-15, 2008. position. Continued on page 5 door to false irredentist claims on Greece’s Ambassador to the sovereign Greek territory, which United States Alexandros Mallias would destabilize the Balkans. spoke with TNH and remarked that Secretary of State Condoleeza “we are truly in the midst of a criti- Rice was among the top officials cal and delicate phase, and it is a Ms. Bakoyanni met with during her NHL’s Chris Chelios Still Going Strong must for everyone to rally together Archdiocese three-day visit. and join forces. Greek Americans – Dr. Rice urged FYROM to re- By Evan C. Lambrou he says he has no intentions of retir- What’s a typical day like for him? at both the organizational level and Gives Farmers solve its dispute with Greece earlier Special to The National Herald ing any time soon. What are some of his hobbies out- as individuals – have always been in the week. According to a state- He grew up in Chicago. Like side of hockey? How does he de- on the front lines of defense, pro- ment issued by the State Depart- NEW YORK – He has two Stanley many kids of his generation growing scribe his connection to the Greek motion and advancement of our na- $1.6 Million ment, Dr. Rice told Antonio Cups, one World Cup, an Olympic up in Chicago, he idolized Dick American community? tional agenda. At this moment, I am Milososki, FYROM’s foreign minis- silver medal, three Norris Trophies, Butkus, the great linebacker of the While he was on his way to a ho- asking for everyone’s help and co- ter, this past Tuesday that the small 24 seasons and 1,600 professional National Football League’s Chicago tel in Minneapolis a few days ago, operation. The next four weeks will By Theodore Kalmoukos Balkan country should use the hockey games under his belt. Bears. And his father, a Greek immi- the evening before a game against be absolutely critical for the name Special to the National Herald United Nations mediation process At 46 years of age, he is also cur- grant, loved hockey enough to let it the Minnesota Wild, Chelios took issue involving the Former Yugoslav to find a solution. rently the oldest active player in the replace soccer in his heart. some time to answer these questions Republic of Macedonia.” BOSTON – The Greek Orthodox In addition to meeting with Dr. National Hockey League and, if he So how did this Greek American and others for the National Herald. Ambassador Mallias added that Archdiocese of America decided to Rice at the State Department this stays healthy, is on track to break kid become professional hockey’s “Nothing’s really changed since I Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoy- $1,652,998 to purchase feed and past Thursday, Ms. Bakoyanni met NHL legends Gordie Howe and iron man, as well as one of its great- started 24 years ago. You get in anni is coming to Washington D.C. foraging seed for 2,000 farming with Deputy Secretary of State Mark Messier’s records for most reg- est defensemen ever? What moti- around three or four in the after- to continue this diplomatic strug- families in the Peloponnesus area John D. Negroponte, and had a ular season games ever played. vates him to keep playing at that lev- noon. You check into the hotel. You gle. “We need everyone’s coopera- that were stricken by last summer’s working lunch with out-going Un- His name is Chris Chelios. He el of intensity after 24 seasons? tion at this point in time,” he said. deadly fires. In a news release issue dersecretary of State for Political plays for the Detroit Red Wings. And What’s the key to his longevity? Continued on page 12 Greece’s Ambassador to the U.S. early this week the Archdiocese has Affairs R. Nicholas Burns. collected the sum of $3,946,989 as While she was in Washington, well as $28,241 in interest from a Ms. Bakoyanni also met with Sen- Special Relief Fund. The sum of ate Foreign Relations Committee $252,853 has been given to the Chairman Joe Biden (D-Delaware) IOCC to distribute through the and Senate Armed Services Com- Fire Damages Livelihood Recovery Project. mittee Chairman Carl Levin (D- Members of the Special Com- Michigan), as well as with several Massachusetts mittee of the Greek Fire Relief Fund members of the House of Represen- met on Wednesday, February 6, tatives who are active with Hellenic 2008, and decided to make the issues. She met National Security Cathedral grant of $1,652,998 to the farming Advisor Stephen Hadley at the families in Greece. The meeting White House on Friday. took place at the Greek Orthodox CSIS FORUM By Theodore Kalmoukos Archdiocese under Archbishop This past Wednesday, the first Special to The National Herald Demetrios. Participating were Mr. official day of her visit, she deliv- Andrew Natsios, past Administra- ered an address, “Transforming BOSTON – St. George Greek Or- tor of USAID; Mr. Michael Jaharis, Southeast Europe: A Challenge to thodox Cathedral of Springfield, Vice-Chair of the Archdiocesan Smart Power,” during a forum at Massachusetts was damaged by fire Council; Mrs. Georgia Skeadas, Na- the Center of Strategic & Interna- on Tuesday, February 12, at around tional President of Philoptochos tional Studies, and also met with 10:45 a.m. just minutes before the and Mr. Peter Kikis, President of funeral service of a parishioner that Faith Endowment. Mr. George Continued on page 9 was scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Behrakis, Chairman of Leadership Extended damage was, fortu- 100 and Dr. Anthony Limberakis, nately, prevented since the fire was Commander of the Order of St. An- spotted at its preliminary stages drew, were unable to attend be- caused by an old electrical wire cause of pressing commitments, which brings power to the choir’s the news release stated. Bride Dies organ. The Committee heard a report St. George Greek-Orthodox by Bishop Andonios of Fasiane, co- During First Cathedral of Springfield is one of ordinator of the Fund, who took a the historic parishes of New Eng- trip to Greece for a first hand as- land. It belongs to the Holy Metrop- sessment of the catastrophe done Dance olis of Boston and is about two and by the fires and assessing the needs a half hours from the city of Boston. of those affected. DAVIE, Florida (AP) – Kim According to its priest, Fr. Christo- Springfield firefighters examine the burned floors of St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral this morning Bishop Andonios was accompa- Sjostrom wanted a real-life version pher Stamas, “the parish is com- after a fire caused an estimated $40,000 in damage to the structure. Rev. Christopher H. Stamos, pastor of nied to Greece by Fr. Angelo Pappas of the film “My Big Fat Greek Wed- prised by 650 families.” the church, discovered the blaze as he entered the church to prepare for a funeral. Nobody was injured in of St. Nicholas Parish in ding,” which played in the back- Speaking to the National Herald the fire. The blaze was caused by faulty wiring in the sanctuary floor. Portsmouth, New Hampshire, who ground as friends fixed her hair and Fr. Stamas said, “It happened as we is a trained disaster first responder, makeup before her own marriage were preparing for a funeral ser- Dean Triantafilou, Executive Direc- ceremony. vice, which was a good thing be- tor of International Orthodox Holding the tiara his wife wore cause normally we wouldn’t have Christian Charities (IOCC), and on their wedding night, Teddy been there at that time” and he Mrs. Despina Katsivelakis, Repre- Efkarpides is still grieving over her added that “if it had been any other Cyprus Elections Reach Final Stretch sentative of IOCC in Athens. Dean January 19 death, in his Sunrise, time of the day or any other day we Triantafillou is the son of the Presi- Fla., home. Kim Sjostrom, 36, col- wouldn’t have been there.” NICOSIA – The Central Election the outcome of the vote, with many Papadopoulos, 73, led his Greek dent of Hellenic College and Holy lapsed during the first dance at The church began to fill with Commission is putting the final voters still undecided or not reply- Cypriot community into rejecting a Cross, Fr. Nicholas Triantafilou. Fr. their wedding and died from heart smoke. The fire alarms immediate- touches to preparations for presi- ing to poll questions, still in the bal- U.N. reunification plan for Cyprus a Angelo Pappas had gone to Greece disease. They were dancing to a ly sounded and the fire department dential elections on Sunday, Febru- ance. A record number of student week before the island joined the last August and helped as a fire- Greek song that means “Love Me.” was summoned automatically. Sev- ary 17, contested by nine candi- voters are also flying in on the eve European Union as a divided coun- fighter. He especially helped and But less than an hour after she eral people were already in the dates, three of whom are running of the elections. try in 2004. saved the Monastery of Sts. Anar- and Teddy Efkarpides were wed, church for the service and were neck to neck according to opinion Papadopoulos slipped 0.3 points Challengers accuse Papadopou- gyroi on Mountain Parnonas in the Sjostrom crumpled in her hus- asked to leave by Clara Somers, the polls. Results, according to the to 29.8 percent as opposed to his los of not doing enough to try to Sparta province. band's arms during a Greek song church’s sexton. Commission, are expected by 8:30 communist rival, Christofias who ease the deadlock in reunification In the news release, it is stated that means “Love Me.” “Clara Somers notified me by p.m. on Sunday on the websites climbed 1.1 points to 29.5 percent, talks, which is complicating that Bishop Andonios “met with the At 36, Sjostrom was dead from telephone just one minute before I www.proedrikes.gov.cy, www.ek- the Noverna survey published in the Turkey's bid to join the European Metropolitans of Ileia and Manti- heart disease. got there to see a considerable loges.gov.cy, www.elections.gov.cy Politis daily said. Union. neia (Arcadia), the Governors (Pre- amount of white smoke filling the and www.ekloges.pio.gov.cy.?The Independent candidate Ioannis Christofias, who heads the is- fects) of Ileia and Arcadia as well as Continued on page 2 Cathedral,” Fr. Stamas said. three main candidates – Tassos Pa- Kassoulides was in third place with land's AKEL communist party, quit visited Pyrgos, Zaharo, Tripoli and “I immediately went downstairs padopoulos, Demetris Christophias 27.3 percent, the survey said. as the senior partner in the govern- some of the villages devastated by to the basement which was also and Ioannis Kasoulides – are inten- If candidates fail to win an out- ing alliance in mid-2007. He said he the fires, including Artemida where To subscribe call: 718.784.5255 smoke-filled. However, the origin sifying their campaigns in the next right majority in the Feb. 17 elec- disagreed with the tactics of the in- 16 people lost their lives.” The e-mail: of the smoke was not apparent. I few days with special events, in- tion, as polls suggest, a runoff will cumbent on the reunification issue. Bishop was updated on the present [email protected] opened the bulkhead door to air cluding concerts, increased adver- be staged between the two fron- AKEL had also advocated a delay situation and the efforts undertak- out the basement only to see two tising, door to door visits, delivery trunners on Feb. 24. in the island's bid to join the euro en to assist those impacted by the firefighters standing right there. I of printed material, radio, TV and A runoff between Papadopoulos zone until 2009. The island adopted disaster. He inquired about the directed them downstairs.” newspaper interviews. Electioneer- and Christofias would see both get- the euro along with Malta on Janu- needs which currently exist as well The funeral service took place at ing ends at midnight on Friday. ting 39.2 percent of the vote, while ary 1, 2008. as requested from some of the offi- the chapel, which is located across All three believe they will go a face-off between Kassoulides and The second national televised cials a list of projects with which from the Cathedral. through to the run-off on February Papadopoulos would see Pa- debate with the participation of all the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of 24. Recent opinion polls give a padopoulos win with 45 percent, three candidates aired on on Thurs- Continued on page 6 slight edge to Papadopoulos, but the poll said. day night. Continued on page 2 2 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008

GOINGS ON...

■ FEBRUARY 20 – MARCH 5 The cost of the Conference will be NEW YORK – The Cathedral Fel- underwritten by the well-known lowship of the Holy Trinity Greek philanthropists and AFGLC bene- Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral factors George and Margo cordially invites the community to Behrakis. For more information, go “Triodion: A Spiritual Guide for the to website of the Foundation at Lenten Journey” during its annual www.afglc.org; or contact Acting Pre-lenten Lecture Series on con- President of AFGLC, Dr. John U. secutive Wednesdays beginning Balis at [email protected], February 20, 2008 at 7 PM at the or the Conference Program Chairs, Cathedral Center (337 East 74th Dr. James Strange at Street). The series will conclude on [email protected], or Dr. Tom March 5th with a presentation by Papademetriou at the new Dean of the Cathedral, Rev. [email protected]. Dr. Frank Marangos. On February 20, Rev. Dr. Philip Zymaris will de- ■ MARCH 17 scribe “The Birth and Growth of WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Presi- Lenten and Holy Week Services.” dent of the Alexander S. Onassis On February 27 Rev. Father Mark Public Benefit Foundation Mr. An- Arey will speak about “Lenten thony Papadimitriou cordially in- Prayer Life: Nourishing the Soul.” vites the community to a dramatic “Lenten Music: Inspiring the Soul” reading of selected passages is the title of the presentation by “Thucydides’ History of the Pelo- Rev. Dr. Frank Marangos which ponnesian War,” with commentary concludes the series. Newly ap- by Dr. Josiah Ober Professor of pointed Dean of the Greek Ortho- Classics and Political Science; Con- dox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the stantinos Mitsotakis Chair, School Holy Trinity, Father Frank Maran- of Humanities and Sciences, Stan- gos has served the Greek Orthodox ford University, California at The TNH/COSTAS BEJ Archdiocese as an administrator, Shakespeare Theatre Company A photo of students who passed the New York State Greek Regents Exam with a perfect score. From l. to r. Akrivi Anagnostopoulos, He- parish priest and professor of The- Lansburgh Theatre (450 7th Street len Giannoulas, Melina Iakovou, Maria Konstantinides, Emmanuel Manolides, Constantine Petropouleas, Sophia Skoufaras, accompa- ology. Father Marangos is newly ap- NW) on Monday, March 17 at 7 PM. nied by Niovi Philippou, Bessy Kohlios, Christine Sirocis, Rev. Joachim Valasiades, Stephan Cherpelis, George Vlikidis, Rev. Paul Palesty, pointed Adjunct Assistant Professor Dramatic reading by professional Dr. Ioannis Efthimiopoulos, Maria Zolotas and George Kanellopoulos. at St. Johns University in New York actors. Directed by David Muse, As- and was previously Adjunct Assis- sociate Director, Shakespeare The- tant Professor of Religious Educa- atre Company. The Spartans con- tion Holy Cross Greek Orthodox sider arguments for and against go- School of Theology, Brookline, MA, ing to war with the Athenians, ex- Flushing Afternoon School PTA Holds Annual Tribute Adjunct Assistant Professor of posing timeless issues of foreign Homiletics Holy Cross Greek Or- policy. Pericles delivers his great fu- thodox School of Theology, Brook- neral oration setting forth the high- to Greek Letters and Learning with Awards Banquet line, MA, and Adjunct Professor of est ideals of the civilization of Clas- Orthodox Theology St. Vincent de sical Athens. Those ideals are test- By Demetris Tsakas Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton ed when Athens destroys Melos. Al- Special to The National Herald Beach, FL.1988 – 1997. Father cibiades urges the Athenians to ex- Mark Arey was appointed the Di- pand their empire, but the invasion NEW YORK – The PTA of the rector of the Office of Inter-Ortho- in Sicily fails, leading to Thucy- Stephen and Areti Cherpelis Greek dox, Ecumenical and Interfaith Re- dides' sober assessment of the most Afternoon School, in Flushing, N.Y. lations by His Eminence Archbish- momentous event in all Hellenic held its annual tribute to Greek Let- op Demetrios of America on June 1, history. ters and Learning last Sunday. The 2007. Father Philip Zymaris joined event got under way immediately the faculty of Hellenic College Holy ■ THROUGH MAY 2008 following the Divine Liturgy that Cross School of Theology in 2005 NEW YORK – The Children’s Muse- took place at St. Nicholas Church in and is Assistant Professor of Litur- um of Manhattan cordially invites Flushing, N.Y. The celebration cul- gics. The presentations will be fol- the community to “Gods, Myths & minated with the PTA’s 33rd annu- lowed by a period for questions and Mortals: Discover Ancient Greece,” al awards banquet, which took comments by the audience and the an exhibition which allows children place later on that evening, on Feb- evening will conclude with hors to explore the world of ancient ruary 10th, at the Sarantakos Hall d’oeuvres and refreshments. For Greece at CMOM (The Tisch Build- inside the St. Nicholas Community more information, e-mail Dean ing, 212 West 83rd Street). Your facilities. Sirigos at [email protected]. initial tour guides will be the great The turnout and enthusiastic gods Zeus, Poseidon and Athena as audience reaction testified to the ■ FEBRUARY 21 they reminisce about their powers fact that the celebration was a suc- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Ameri- and responsibilities. Learn how the cess. Earlier in the day, Greek After- can Hellenic Institute cordially in- Ancient Greeks believed gods and noon School students Maria Koul- vites the community to “Time on mortals interacted and take an on- lias, Iraklis Diamataris, Vasiliki the Mountain: The O.S.S. in Axis- screen personality quiz to deter- Georgiou, Maria Tsiatis, Joanna Occupied Greece, 1943-1944," a fo- mine which mythological character Germanis and Mario Naoum read rum presented by Kyriakos Nalm- you are most like. Visit the gymna- excerpts from St. Basil’s famous Ad- pantis, Doctoral Candidate, Kent sium (school) and oikos (home) to dress to Young Men, along with State University at The Hellenic discover which skills were most val- many other poems dedicated to House (1220 16th Street, NW) on ued in Ancient Greek boys and teachers and the concept of school. Community leaders and honored guest alongside members of the St. Nicholas school theater company. Thursday, February 21, 2008, at girls. Explore the importance of Dr. Ioannis Efthimiopoulos, Na- 12:00 – 1:00 PM. Light refresh- athletic competition as you arm tional Education Director at the pieces from award-winning essays who served our PTA with love, ded- she hopes to bring her grandchil- ments will be served. For more in- wrestle ancient Greek counterparts Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of written by Chris Louridas, Maria ication and conscientiousness. dren to the same institution. formation, call 202-785-8430. using mechanical arms, or test your America was in attendance togeth- Grace Papatheodorou, Angeliki These two past PTA Presidents are The PTA went on to honor leg strength as you learn about an- er with George Vlikidis, Education Petropouleas, and Elena Toumaras, dear to all our hearts, and left their Greek Afternoon School students ■ FEBRUARY 28 cient jumpers. Become familiar Coordinator at the Greek Con- all of whom are college freshmen. unique mark here by doing their Despina and Irene Amanatides, NEW YORK – The Hellenic Ameri- with the ancient Greek alphabet by sulate, Stephen Cherpelis, grand All four of these students graduat- part to contribute to our school’s Maria Arvekiou, Maria Konstanti- can Bankers Association cordially translating messages from Greek to benefactor of the St. Nicholas ed from the St. Nicholas Greek Af- progress. Eugene Bouzalakos and nides, Vasilios Demiris, Dionysia invites the community to an Eco- English. Learn about the heroism of Greek Afternoon School, Rev. Paul ternoon School in 2003, and ac- Maria Stratoudakis volunteered Economou, George Georgiou, An- nomic Outlook Panel Discussion on ancient Greek women in myth and Palesty, Pastor, Christine Sirokis, cepted their alma mater’s request their services to our school and thony Hotzoglou, Maria Kaloeidas, The US Economy and the State of daily life and compete with the Parish Council President, Athena to take part in a writing competi- community, and continue to do so Chris and Emmanuel Kohlios, the Real Estate Market at First goddess Athena in a virtual weav- Krommydas, Principal of the tion. These students also received up until today.” Anastasia Loukissa, Julia and Vasi- American Title (33 Third Avenue, ing contest. Climb inside a 12 foot William Spyropoulos Day School, honorary commendations and As they accepted their awards, liki Makris, Emmanuel Manolides, 17th Floor) on February 28 at 6 tall Trojan Horse before stepping community officials, as well many scholarships as prizes. both Mr. Bouzalakos and Ms. Stra- Mario Naoum, Demetrios Papager- PM. Attendance for members is into Homer’s great epic poem, The representatives from the PTA of the Afterwards, top students Akrivi toudakis expressed their gratitude manos, Emily Philippou and free; $40 for non members payable Odyssey, where you will journey St. Demetrios Greek Afternoon Anagnostopoulos, Helen Gian- for the honor they were receiving Chrysanthi Toumasatou for being a at the door (admission fee will be through rocky caves and over open School in Astoria, N.Y. noulas, Melina Iakovou, Maria and said they wished to dedicate it part of the St. Nicholas school the- credited to 2008 dues for new and seas; escape the crawl-through Cy- Community leaders and hon- Konstantinides, Emmanuel Mano- to the teachers, parents, and every- ater company, which traveled to returning members). There will be clops Cave; and sing like a Siren in ored guests addressed the audience lides, Constantine Petropouleas one else who shares in their com- Crete last summer to participate in a wine and meze reception. For the Sirens Karaoke Cove. Be pre- and extolled the efforts of the St. and Sophia Skoufaras received spe- mon dream for Greek education the international student theater more information, call Theodora at pared to face on-screen dilemmas, Nicholas Community to promote cial awards for achieving perfect and the propagation of the Greek competition. 201-242-1522. your choices will be tracked along Greek Education, pointing out that scores on the New York State Greek heritage and traditions. Ms. Stra- The audience also reserved the way and your personalized on- it provides instruction in the Greek Regents Examination. toudakis commented that three of some of its most enthusiastic cheers ■ MARCH 7-8 screen Hero Record can be e- language and culture to about one “Each year, our students achieve her children have already graduat- for the Greek Afternoon School’s TAMPA BAY, Fla. – The American mailed home. Budding archaeolo- thousand children. Rev. Palesty some of the highest scores on this ed from the St. Nicholas Greek Af- dance groups, which performed Foundation for Greek Language gists can visit the Temple of Zeus at stressed that the positive results test statewide, and I can say that ternoon School, and God willing, Greek traditional folk dances. and Culture (AFGLC), in partner- Olympia and assist in the recon- yielded by the St. Nicholas Commu- our school average is over 90. Last ship with theInterdisciplinary Cen- struction of a 3-D temple; learn nity’s educational programs should year was one of the best school ters for Hellenic Studies (ICHS) at about column construction, sculp- not lead to feelings of self-impor- years for us in the past decade. We the University of South Florida tures and the giant statue of Zeus tance, but instead inspire continual had a 100% passing rate, and seven (USF) and the Richard Stockton (one of the Seven Wonders of the hard work. He also urged commu- students who got perfect scores,” College of NJ (RSCNJ) cordially in- Ancient World). For more informa- nity officials and school leaders to Mr. Kanellopoulos said. Following Bride Dies During First Dance vites the community to “The Hel- tion, call Janet Ralston at 212-721- approach all the children in the lo- his address, he and PTA President lenic Legacy through the Ages,” a 1223. cal area and motivate them to take Niovi Philippou handed-out $100 Continued from page 1 lightheaded. Efkarpides thought conference at the USF campus on part in Greek education. scholarships to each of students in- his wife, a diabetic, needed sugar, March 7-8, 2008. The Conference ■ NOTE TO OUR READERS St. Nicholas Greek Afternoon dividually. The wedding had become a pro- but she collapsed. will bring together academicians, This calendar of events section is a School Principal George Kanel- Ms. Philippou spoke about her ject at Davie Elementary School, Wedding guests, paramedics scholars, and interested individuals complimentary service to the Greek lopoulos congratulated the PTA predecessors who were also hon- where Sjostrom taught first grade. and doctors at a nearby hospital who will address a) the long-term American community. All parishes, and the Greek Letters Celebration ored that evening. “Today, we are Fellow teachers provided the wed- were unable to revive her. influence of Hellenism in the organizations and institutions are Committee for their work, and read honoring two worthy individuals ding gown, the flowers and decora- She had a previous cardiac world, and b) the on-going and encouraged to e-mail their infor- tions. One of them, an ordained episode in her 20s and was a poster projected educational contribu- mation 3-4 weeks ahead of time, minister, performed the ceremony. child - literally - for juvenile dia- tions of the Interdisciplinary Cen- and no later than Monday of the “It was perfect for her,” said Do- betes, relatives and friends said. ters – which AFGLC has established week before the event, to english. minic Church, the minister friend. Efkarpides recalled seeing the in institutions of higher learning. [email protected]. Sjostrom carried blue and white poster featuring her on New York flowers during the ceremony - the subways. POCKET-LESS colors of the Greek flag - as she ex- He consoles himself by reading a changed vows with Efkarpides, a list of “101 Reasons Why I Love QUESTION OF THE WEEK 43-year-old carpenter and Navy You” that Sjostrom gave him their PITA BREAD veteran. They had met three years first Christmas together. “Number to the day before the Jan. 19 wed- 1. You make me smile.” Vote on our website! Kontos Foods ding. No. 98 is especially difficult: During the couple's first dance, “You're the one I want to grow old You have the chance to express your opinion on our website on an The Leading Company in Flat Breads Sjostrom complained of being with.” important question in the news. Well knwon for the Pocket-Less Pita The results will be published in our printed edition next week along with the question for that week. Manufacturer’s of Authentic Ethnic Hand Stretched Flat bread. The question this week is: This week, many of the largest Greek American organizations banded together to lobby Congress to change Kontos the first family in fillo dough and fillo products. Archdiocese Pledges $1.6 Million its policy towards the FYROM using the name Macedonia. Do you be- lieve that Greece will ultimately be successful in getting the Skopjan FILLO KATAIFI, BAKLAVA, SPANAKOPITA, TYROPITA government to removing the name "Macedonia" from their constitu- NUT ROLL, MELOMAKARONA for Greek Farming Families tional name? and the TRADITIONAL MEDITERRANEAN DESERTS. ❏ Yes Excellent quality and service. Continued from page 1 ly help the environment by allow- ❏ No ing nature to recover from the dev- ❏ I Don’t Know America could assist. astation. Moreover, it provides re- We distribute in USA and Canada. It was also stated that “indica- lief to the local government agen- The results for last week’s question: Do you believe that Hillary Special prices for communities, schools, churches tions are that the government may cies which will be relieved of the Clinton's comments referring to FYROM as Macedonia should cost festivals and other events ban open grazing of livestock for burden of providing this type of as- her the support of the Greek American community? two years so as to allow the burned sistance thus allowing them to fo- 65.2% voted "Yes." areas to adequately recover. This cus their efforts on other areas of 13.0% voted "No." has created tremendous hardships need.” 21.8% voted "I don't know." for local farmers who must now As far as the remaining of the Please vote at: www.thenationalherald.com provide fodder for their herds funds collected, the Archdiocesan Kontos Foods, Inc which are confined to small cor- Committee will meet again to de- Box 628, Paterson, NJ 07544 rals.” cide how the balance of the Fund Tel.: (973) 278-2800 ñ Fax: (973) 278-7943 While it emphasizes that “this can best be used to offer the great- Advertise in The National Herald

a b Kontos.com grant not only directly benefits est assistance to those affected by those farmers but will also indirect- the wildfires. (718) 784-5255 ext 101 THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 COMMUNITY 3 Paneliakos Society Collects More Than $71,000 for Greece’s Summer Fire Victims

By Stavros Marmarinos nations, $39,300 from raffle sales, this organization. Special to The National Herald $620 from the sale of the book “Oi This past Sunday, which coincid- Stales Pou Giinane Vroxi,” – copies ed with the feast of St. Haralambos NEW YORK – The Paneliakos Soci- of which were generously donated – patron saint of Ilia’s capital city ety of New York announced the fi- to the Society from the book’s au- Pyrgos – the Society held a memor- nal figure from its fundraising ac- thors –$6,635 from its recent dance ial service for its deceased mem- tivities to benefit the victims of last at Terrace on the Park in Flushing, bers, as well as the victims of last summer’s disastrous wildfires that N.Y., and $200 from contributors in year’s wildfires in Ilia. plagued the Greek Prefecture of Il- New Jersey. The Paneliakos Society was es- ia, as well as many other parts of $14,000 from the total income tablished in New York, in 1972, the Peloponnese and the rest of the was used to cover event costs, in- with Constantine Lymberis serving Greek countryside. In total, the cluding raffle prizes. The $14,480 as its first President. The members Paneliakos Society collected raised from individual contribu- of its current Board of Directors are $71,235, of which $47,005.40 will tions was deposited into a special Georgia Papadopoulou, President; be sent over to Greece in the com- fund set up by the Paneliakos Soci- Spyros Kokkonis, Vice-President; ing days and earmarked for direct ety. In addition, the personal Christina Apostolopoulos, 2nd distribution among the families of fundraising efforts of the Society’s Vice-President; Helen Pappas, Sec- victims killed in last year’s deadly members who appealed to various retary; George Reglis, Treasurer; fires. individuals and companies for help Constantine Lykogiannis, Public This decision was passed at the were crucial in helping the organi- Relations Representative; Dionys- Society’s General Assembly, which zation meet its goal. ios Stathopoulos, Antonia Reglis, took place at the Chian House in “Our Society has contributed Alexandra Xydias, and Spyridoula Astoria, N.Y., this past January 16. funds in the past to support the Anastasopoulou, members. The Paneliakos Society will dis- work being done by Metropolitan Nicholas Betenitis and Elias burse the funds through checks Germanos of Ilia, who is doing a Demetropoulos serve as alternate payable directly to the families of wonderful job,” Mr. Lykogiannis members, and Anthony Pa- the fire victims. The Paneliakos So- said. “The Metropolis of Ilia boasts padopoulos is the organization’s at- ciety will receive the name and oth- the highest number of philanthrop- torney. er pertinent information of each re- ic projects in all of Greece. There is During the Society’s recent cipient from the Prefecture of Ilia. a home for the elderly located in dance to benefit the fire victims, Afterwards, the checks will be the area of Katholiki in Gastouna, which took place at Terrace on the sent to local organizations based in and it ranks among the best in Eu- Park in New York’s Flushing Mead- Ilia – including the Pan-Hellenic rope.” ows Park, Susie Marouda-Louta, Confederation of Cultural Societies A scene from the Paneliakos Society’s benefit dance for the fire victims in Greece. Susie Marouda- The Paneliakos Society continu- President of the Village of Pelopio, of Ilia (PASESI) – which will in turn Louta, the President of the Village of Pelopio, in Ancient Olympia, is shown at the podium recapping ously helps needy people arriving located near Ancient Olympia in Il- ensure that the funds find their way the tragic events of last summer’s wildfires in Greece to the audience. Constantine Lykogiannis and in the United States from Greece, ia, was honored as the organiza- to their individual beneficiaries. Paneliakos Society President Georgia Papadopoulou stand alongside to her right. and each year it makes a contribu- tion’s Person of the Year. Ms. “The Paneliakos Society has tion to one of Greece’s largest chil- Marouda-Louta is a longtime mem- been continuously offering its help homeland,” the Society’s Public Re- ald. sury towards the total amount of dren’s aid organizations, “To ber of the Paneliakos Society, and over many years to attend to needs lations Representative Constantine The Paneliakos Society con- funds it raised. In addition, it col- Hamogelo tou Paidiou.” Last year, served as its Treasurer when she that exist here and back in the Lykogiannis told The National Her- tributed $10,000 from its own trea- lected $14,480 from individual do- it made a contribution of $2,000 to lived in New York several years ago. Pancretan Association: Fundraising Efforts for Greece’s Wildfires a “Complete Success”

By Demetris Tsakas through the collective efforts of all press release issued by Mr. Veliv- water and landscape testing, which the city of Gortyna in southwest Special to The National Herald 85 of his organization’s chapters. asakis and PAA Fundraising Chair- will be set up in the fire-stricken Pre- Crete and the Arcadian province of “These proceeds are the product of a man Lefteris Dramindinos, there is a fecture of Ilia. Gortynia, which became sister cities. NEW YORK – The Pancretan Associ- nationwide fund drive. All our mem- detailed explanation presenting on The proposal for this lab was Mr. Velivasakis noted that the ation of America (PAA) has good rea- bers, young and old, contributed the way that the allocation of the made by the International Orthodox PAA is awaiting municipal approval son to be proud, its President Em- greatly and helped raise this impres- funds would take place and the rea- Christian Charities (IOCC) and its to send over the funds for the pur- manuel Velivasakis told The Nation- sive amount. I am especially pleased son behind this decision. The press cost is estimated at $122,000. The chase of this fire truck, which is to be al Herald, and called his organiza- to see Cretans proving yet again that release mentions that the PAA Board PAA will contribute $75,000 to- made directly by the local govern- tion’s fundraising efforts to aid in the they recognize what their responsi- of Directors remained faithful to wards this project, and as the main ment in Gortynia. restoration of the areas stricken in bilities are and take them seriously. their initial position that it would be project sponsor, the lab will be The PAA will send the remaining last summer’s deadly wildfires that It did not take much to get these do- better for proceeds to be used to fi- named after the Pancretan Associa- $28,000 to support the Plant Your ravaged Greece a complete success. nations to start pouring in. We nance long term projects instead of tion of America. “We are hopeful Roots in Greece Foundation. As pre- The PAA’s Board of Directors recent- called upon our fellow Cretans for merely covering the fire victims’ that by next summer the Pancretan viously reported by TNH, this foun- ly announced their decision regard- support through our Association’s everyday expenses. The press release Association of America will be send- dation has performed reforestation ing the allocation of the proceeds magazine “KPHTH,” phone calls and also states that “As the old saying ing a delegation to Ilia to celebrate projects throughout Greece, in areas they collected following a tally of the e-mails, and we are more than satis- goes, ‘give a man a fish and he eats the opening of this lab,” the PAA like Crete, the Peloponnese, Mace- total funds they raised through their fied with the results,” Mr. Veliv- for a day, teach a man to fish and he states in its press release. donia, Thrace, and is currently campaign. “The $133,000 already asakis said, while expressing his eats for a lifetime.’” Due to the need for fire trucks in working in Penteli, Parnitha, Tayge- collected to date was placed in an es- hope that the final figure will reach Additionally, it was reported that the Arcadian Province of Gortynia, tos, Olympia and Euboea. crow account, and as soon as we re- $140,000. the Fundraising Committee and the the PAA also decided to contribute “We asked this foundation to pre- ceive an official response from the He also stated that he was happy PAA Executive Board reviewed all $30,000 towards the purchase of a pare a special reforestation program Prefecture of Ilia and the Municipali- about the fact that the funds would the proposals and decided to support small 4x4 fire truck, which will be in the fire stricken areas that will ty of Gortynia in the Prefecture of Ar- not simply be used to cover the the resolutions passed at the last named in honor of the Pancretan As- bear the name of the Pancretan As- cadia we will disburse these funds everyday needs of the fire victims, Board of Directors meeting, which sociation as well. The PAA made de- sociation of America,” Mr. Veliv- accordingly,” Mr. Velivasakis said. but would instead be allocated to in- was held in Modesto, Calif. The The President of the Pancretan tailed reference to the special ties asakis said, and reported that these According to the President of the vest in and support the future devel- biggest chunk of the proceeds will be Association of America Em- that exist between Gortynia and funds are already in the process of PAA, these funds were raised opment of the fire stricken area. In a used to fund a lab specializing in soil, manuel Velivasakis. Crete, and the recent union between being sent. Helen Dumas Honored for 25 Years of Service

Helen Dumas was honored on of the Parish Council, and many ther. His words of praise and grati- Sunday, December 16, for retiring dozens of roses coming from every tude to Helen for her “uncompro- from her position as Director of corner of the hall. Further, there mising efforts all these years” were Greek Education and Culture for were many award presentations deeply felt by every single person in the Metropolis of San and presents from individual Greek this huge reception place. His clos- Francisco/Western United States schools under Metropolis jurisdic- ing remarks came only minutes af- after 25 years of unprecedented tion, and also from the Greek Min- ter the Honorable Andreas Kyprian- service. She was bestowed the istry of Education – via the Greek ides, the consul general of Cyprus, Archdiocesan Medal of St. Paul consulate of San Francisco. The had named Mrs. Dumas “Boubouli- Award which is the highest honor a Dean of the Cathedral had indeed na, and Daskala tou Genous.” lay person can receive from our planned a dream day for Helen to His loving words came only min- Greek Orthodox Church. The remember forever. utes after the Hellenic Consul for medal of honor was given to Helen The climax came with the most Educational Affairs from the Greek by Metropolitan Gerasimos toward moving closing speech by Metro- consulate in San Francisco, Ioannis the end of the Divine Liturgy at St. politan Gerasimos, who also gave Mavrommatis, had called Mrs. Du- Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles, Helen the loveliest, silver, holy icon mas, “A legend in the Greek Ameri- where Helen is the Director of the of St. Konstantine and Helen, re- can society. . . with her unprece- Dear fellow Greek-Americans Cathedral's Hellenic Academy for peatedly stressing the word “Axia.” dented passion and dedication to the past 20 years. His Eminence, in an unusually maintain and foster the ideals of he 2008 AHEPA Family Supreme Convention will be held in Athens, Greece. Please join the entire AHEPA A reception followed in the Fel- moved tone, and looking at Mrs. Hellenism to Greek American gen- Family for a once in a lifetime trip and convention experience! lowship Hall of the Cathedral. The Dumas straight in the eyes, con- erations.” T Cathedral's Parish Council had cluded, “Our Church always needs Earlier, a message from former The AHEPA Family has visited Greece for Supreme Conventions twice since 1922. In 1965, and again in 1970, planned an unforgettable program persons like Mrs. Dumas. So, don't Speaker of the House of Represen- for Mrs. Dumas. There were think she is getting away so easily. . tatives, Newt Gingrich, was read to thousands flocked to Greece to reconnect with family and history. Join us as we do it again! speeches from St. Sophia's teach- . I am keeping her as the advisor to Mrs. Dumas, congratulating her for The dates to remember for the 2008 Supreme Convention in Athens, Greece, are July 1-11, 2008. ers, poems, songs and dances from the Commission of Greek Educa- “an extraordinary 25 years of lead- the children, and performances tion and Culture - the position ership and service. You embody the The AHEPA Convention Committee has been working hard to prepare a wonderful getaway for the entire from students. The Consul Gener- which is a little less demanding American dream. Your passion, AHEPA community. The AHEPA Family from Australia, Canada, Greece and Cyprus, will be attending our als of Greece and Cyprus spoke, as than the one she is leaving behind. dedication and intelligence have event in Athens, Greece. Thousands of Ahepans, Daughters, Sons and Maids will work together for an unfor- did Greek American movie stars I reluctantly accepted her resigna- affected everyone around you.” gettable family reunion. and congratulatory messages, let- tion, but here she has no say.” Mrs. Dumas was the last one to ters and certificates from important His Eminence spoke softly, respond to what seemed to be an people of high positions – both enunciating every syllable, ad- extraordinary outpouring of affec- We have planned a week of events, a spectacular Opening Ceremony, July 4th Party, dances and social events, from Greece and the United States dressing the head table and Mrs. tion, passion, sentimental feelings which will forever be engraved in your heart and soul. This homecoming will be unlike any convention you were presented. Other speakers in- Dumas, and with a facial expres- and love. Deeply moved, and with have been to, so we hope you and your family will join us. cluded the president and members sion that remind us of a loving fa- difficulty composing herself, she first thanked the Greek Orthodox We have not only prepared AHEPA business, but also cultural events, a cruise, and lots of fun! This is not just Church, the Metropolitan and the a convention, it is a vacation! Dean of St. Sophia Cathedral for giving her the “opportunity to AHEPA and Olympic Airlines have forged a partnership to bring Ahepans to Greece. Olympic has agreed to ex- serve.” Then she thanked individuals tend to all AHEPA members an AHEPA ONLY price. The AHEPA price will be the lowest available price for air- and organizations who had helped fare to Greece. Pricing is based on availability and dates. Savings can be hundreds of dollars per ticket, if you her significantly in the course of the are a member of AHEPA. 25 years saying, “I love to share this medal of honor with all of you.” The special AHEPA only price can be obtained by using the AHEPA promotional Code and your unique AHEPA Finally, she changed positions, ID membership number. Promotion Code: CFR087 in order to directly face the Church leaders present, and closed the Call Olympic Airlines today at 1(800)223-1226 and make your reservation. Seats are selling fast, and lowest function with integrity, grace, ap- preciation, and gratitude. fares are based on availability. For additional information or to join, please visit www.ahepa.org or call AHEPA This is how she concluded her Headquarters at 202-232-6300. acceptance speech: “Your Eminence, I promise to The FREI Travel Congress has been retained to make reservations for the 2008 AHEPA Convention. The total You that this special recognition package, including the AHEPA Cruise, is the most affordable value, for you and your family. Please contact award, the medal of St. Paul, will FREI directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at 011-30-210-321-5600, and ask for Anna, serve as an incentive for more im- AHEPA’s Agent. portant endeavors to come - in- They are open 9-5 Greece time (2 AM -2 PM, Eastern Standard Time). stead of a reward for passed accom- plishments, soon to be forgotten. I have said to your Eminence, more than once, that you and our Church do not owe me, as you phrased it ‘deep and sincere gratitude for my uncompromising efforts all these years.’ Indeed, the gratitude for all Helen Dumas (third from left) was honored with the Medal of St. I have become due to the degree of Paul for retiring from her position as Director of Greek Education and my church involvement is all Culture for the Metropolis of San Francisco on Sunday, December 16. mine.” 4 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008

PHOTOS: TNH/COSTAS BEJ PTO Auction Prayer and Fundraising for Michaela

The Parent Teacher Organization of the A. Fantis School of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in The parish of St. Paul Church in Hempstead, N.Y. held a fundraiser for Michaela Tzakas, a four year old girl Brooklyn held their First Annual Auction on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Pictured: Principal Dr. Alice who has been diagnosed with leukemia. The community raised more than $45,000 for the girl and her Farkouh, Schol Board Chairman Peter Vlitas, Church President George Poulon, Danielle Makris, Ste- family, who have had high medical bills, especially since Michaela’s mother had to give up her job. From lene Argyriou, Stephen Gellos, Debbie Yenna, Diane Elyas, Pahy Paravalos and Tasia Eleutheriades. left: Michaela’s mother Fani Tzakas, Michaela, Sofia Labraki and her daughter Anastasia.

Speaking to Homeowners Brooklyn Homeowners

Director of Surgery at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Dr. Panagiotis Manolas, walks to the podium to speak at the Chrysoula Zikopoulos speaks at a meeting of the Greek-American Homeowners Association in Brooklyn general meeting of the Greek-American Homeowners Association in Astoria on Wednesday, February on Wednesday, February 6, 2008. Some of the topics discussed included how to control oil heating costs 6, 2008. Dr. Manolas discussed diagnosing diseases and new procedures in his field. He also went in- and obtaining social security payments from Greece. The association has about 120 members. Also pic- to detail about cancer, and speciafically bone marrow cancer, to those in attendance. tured: Sandy Vallas, Zoe Koutsoupakis, President Helen Psaras, John Psaras and Antonis Grigos.

Nisyrian Ladies in the Forefront Nisyrians Bring Music

The Nisyrian Ladies Auxiliary Society honored Rev. Anastasios Diakovasilis on Sunday, February 3, 2008 in The Nisyrian Society of New York presented a concert by Grigoris Maninakis and his band, Mikrokos- Whitestone, N.Y. Pictured: Fr. Ieronimos Markopoulos, Maria Hatzinicholaou, Kalliope Sfakianou, Fr. mos, on Saturday, February 9, 2008. The concert coincided with the Nisyrian Society’s cutting of the Anastasios Diakovasilis, Presvytera Maria Diakovasilis, Irene Aggelidakis, Efi Filou, Fr. Apostolos Koufal- vasilopita and blessing for the new year. Many of the attendees sang along with Mr. Maninakis who lakis, Anna Parianou, Anna Kasiotis, George Andriotis, Maritsa Xanthou and Kalliope Bournis. played traditional classic songs from notable Greek songwriters and composers.

Memorial for a Friend Cretan Party

One of 14 paintings by Agamemnon Varvitsiotes is displayed during a literary memorial for writer Regina The Cretan Brotherhood of New York held its annual dance on Saturday, February 9, 2008 at the Rex Pagoulatou on Sunday, February 3, 2008 at the Cephallonian Club in Astoria. The memorial for Mrs. Manor catering hall in Brooklyn. The Brotherhood was encouraged by the large number of young Pagoulatou, who died in 2006, included presentations of art, poetry, music and remembrance. Mr. Varvit- Greek Americans who attended the event. The Brotherhood’s dancers entertained the audience with siotes has appeared in several Greek plays and participated in many art exhibitions. He also writes poetry. traditional Cretan dances. THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 FEATURE 5 Organizations Mount Campaign to Stop “Macedonia” Use by FYROM Montreal NHL Players Arrested Continued from page 1 bers will be discussed,” Mr. Spy- gressmen and Senators. “We need usurpation of our Greek and Mace- ropoulos added. to send thank you letters to politi- donian identity by the residents of Foreign Minister publicly an- Ms. Gatzoulis noted that both cians who supported the two reso- the Former Yugoslav Republic of Outside Florida nounced her readiness to agree up- resolutions stated above refer to re- lutions, and separate letters to all Macedonia (F.Y.R.O.M), the over- on a compound name. Unfortunate- cently published textbooks that in- those representatives who have not whelming majority of whom are Nightclub ly, the other side has not reciprocat- clude maps of “Greater Macedo- signed them yet, asking them to do Slavs and Albanians. ed – until now, at least. For us, the nia,” which is shown extending so.” We enthusiastically support the framework for arriving at a solution many miles into Greek and Bulgari- Mr. Velivasakis also spoke about prospect of F.Y.R.O.M’s induction By Pat Hickey is clear. We need a solution immedi- an sovereign territory. She stated the urgent need for Greek Ameri- into the multinational NATO family The Montreal Gazette ately. We must have a solution here that the resolutions stress that this cans to start sending letters by the and the great democratic union of and now. Therefore, one of the con- type of propaganda is contrary to thousands to U.S. Secretary of State European peoples (EU), under the TAMPA BAY – What was supposed ditions necessary in order for the U.N. Interim Accord, creates Condoleezza Rice and to the White express condition that it abandons to be an evening of fun and team F.Y.R.O.M. to join NATO is to reach hostility and a rationale of irreden- House as well. “We have to write its intransigence and anachronistic bonding turned into a nightmare a solution on its name with Greece. tism in parts of the F.Y.R.O.M popu- our opinion as American citizens positions, and actively welcomes for two members of the Montreal A second condition is for it to re- lation towards Greece and Greek and ask – in fact demand – that our the potential for peaceful coexis- Canadiens. frain from any more hostile propa- history. The legislation urges requests be met. We must stress the tence with its democratic neigh- Rookie defenceman Ryan ganda directed against Greece. This F.Y.R.O.M to adhere to the U.N. bro- fact that we as voters are not at all bors. O'Byrne's career may be in jeopardy is our position and we are going to kered Interim Agreement, which di- satisfied with the Government’s Our positions are as follows: after he was charged with third-de- stick to it.” rects the parties to “promptly take policies.” - We agree with the overwhelm- gree grand theft following a Febru- Meanwhile, a special meeting effective measures to prohibit hos- The President of HANC pointed ing majority of the Greek people, ary 11 incident at Whiskey Park, a between Greek American Commu- tile activities or propaganda by out that “we support the Pan-Mace- who do not accept the term ‘Mace- popular South Tampa nightclub. nity leaders and representatives of state-controlled agencies and to dis- donian Association and also respect donia’ as part of F.Y.R.O.M’s final And teammate Tom Kostopoulos courage acts by private entities like- the Greek Government, which rep- name. faces a lesser charge of resisting ar- ly to incite violence, hatred or hos- resents the Greek people. We be- - If F.Y.R.O.M wishes to become a rest without violence. The players tility,” and review the content of SAE U.S. Regional Coordina- lieve that the Greek Government member and enjoy the security of were arrested around 3 a.m. yester- textbooks, maps, and teaching aids tor Ted Spyropoulos will do everything it can to handle the NATO umbrella and the benefits day and spent the night in jail be- to ensure that such tools are stating this problem with the name dispute of a democratic European Union, fore being released on bail at 9 a.m. accurate information. The bill also coincide with Greek Foreign Minis- and make good on its threat to veto they must refrain from actively vio- O'Byrne, who was recalled from urges F.Y.R.O.M to work with ter Dora Bakoyanni’s visit to Wash- F.Y.R.O.M’s induction into NATO if lating the Interim Accord. the American Hockey League's Greece within the U.N. framework ington D.C. AHEPA is also organiz- it has to.” Hamilton Bulldogs on Sunday, process to achieve longstanding ing a meeting between Greek Amer- Mr. Velivasakis also stated that finds himself in a difficult position United States and United Nations ican leaders and all U.S. Congress- the Greek American Community because he was charged with steal- policy goals by reaching a mutually men and Senators, which will take stands behind Dora Bakoyanni in ing a woman's purse. acceptable official name for place in the Capitol Building, on the crucial diplomatic struggle she Both players met with the media F.Y.R.O.M. March 6th. “We believe that Greece has assumed during her trip to after a late-afternoon practice at In a statement to TNH, Mr. Spy- will veto F.Y.R.O.M’s accession into Washington D.C. the St. Pete's Times Forum, but nei- ropoulos added that both SAE and NATO and the EU if a satisfactory The President of the Pan-Mace- ther shed any light on the incident various other Greek American orga- solution to the name dispute is not donian Association of America Nina that led to their arrest. nizations have already taken action found,” Mr. Spyropoulos predicted. Gatzoulis spoke to TNH and said "I regret what happened there or are preparing to do so in order to He also spoke about Greek FM that on March 6th constituents of and I hope it's resolved quickly," defend this matter of Greek nation- Bakoyanni’s visit and wished her the Greek American Community said the 23-year-old O'Byrne. "Un- al interest. “We are asking all Greek good luck in advancing Greek inter- will go to Washington D.C. to meet fortunately, it's a legal issue and I Americans to support both these ests. “We are expecting to see some- with Congressmen and Senators, can't tell you more than that." resolutions by contacting their Con- thing favorable from the U.S., where they will present the Greek The evening started out on a gressman and Senators and urging which is both Greece’s ally and our case regarding the dispute with high note for the players, who gath- them to support the Greek position. home,” Mr. Spyropoulos added. F.Y.R.O.M over its name and ask the ered for the team's annual rookie The next six weeks will be decisive AHEPA President Ike Goulas American officials to support dinner. The players went to Bern's in the F.Y.R.O.M name issue,” Mr. spoke to TNH about last Thursday’s Greece. Steakhouse, a high-end establish- Spyropoulos said. meeting at the Greek Embassy re- “We will not waver from our po- ment known for fine food and a Greek Ambassador to the Unit- According to Mr. Spyropoulos, garding the name dispute with sition in regards to F.Y.R.O.M’s wine list that runs to hundreds of ed States Alexandros Mallias the best and easiest way for mem- F.Y.R.O.M. Mr. Goulas commented name,” Ms. Gatzoulis said, citing pages. bers of the Greek American Com- that he and many other U.S. citizens the joint declaration by HANC and The dinner replaces rookie initi- elected U.S. Government officials munity to aid in this effort is to send of Greek heritage find the U.S. Gov- the Pan-Macedonian Association ations of the past, and the only pain was held at the Greek Embassy in letters to Congressmen, Senators, ernment’s position on the issue not where both major Greek American the rookies feel is in the wallet. The Washington D.C. last Thursday. The Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in keeping with Greek interests. organizations state their positions Pan-Macedonian Association tab can run into the tens of thou- purpose of the meeting was to coor- and other U.S. Government officials During the meeting, Mr. Goulas said on this issue. “We demand that the Supreme President Nina Gatzoulis sands and was split between dinate the immediate mobilization calling on them to back Greece in that AHEPA pledged to inform its F.Y.R.O.M Government stop their O'Byrne, Sergei Kostitsyn and of the Greek American Community this dispute.” members of the situation and send a propaganda, and refrain from pass- F.Y.R.O.M’s irredentist propaganda Carey Price. to persuade American policymakers SAE’s U.S. Regional Coordinator letter to the House Foreign Affairs ing off our history as theirs and mis- does not promote good neighborly After dinner, most of the players to side with the Greek position in re- stressed that the Greek American Chairman Tom Lantos. Last week, informing their youth. We also reit- relations, which is the most impor- headed up the street to Whiskey gards to the name dispute with Community supports this important the late Chairman Tom Lantos [he erate our position that we do not ac- tant factor in its relations with Park. F.Y.R.O.M., now that negotiations national cause, but noted that died early this week] received cept any resolution to the F.Y.R.O.M Greece within the framework of There were still at least 10 play- for a mutually agreed upon solution greater individual efforts from each about 250 letters from all across the name dispute that includes the term NATO and the EU. ers in the establishment when are intensifying. U.S. “Unfortunately, Mr. Lantos ‘Macedonia.’ We want to assure - We ask that no Euro-Atlantic O'Byrne found himself the center of This meeting, which was con- died two days ago, so we e-mailed everyone that we will continue to convergence with F.Y.R.O.M be at- attraction. vened at the initiative of U.S. Re- our members informing them of fight until this battle is won. It is a tempted until the position of the A woman at the bar discovered gional Coordinator for the Council what happened, and we advised difficult battle, but we must win it.” Greek people in regards to the for- that her purse was missing and of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) Ted Spy- them to no longer send letters ad- The text of the joint declaration mer’s name be accepted alerted a bouncer. According to the ropoulos, was attended by Pan- dressed to him, but to wait until a issued by HANC and the Pan-Mace- - It is evident that F.Y.R.O.M does police report, O'Byrne was seen Macedonian Association of America new Chairman is chosen to replace donian Association reads as fol- not seek to arrive at a mutually outside the bar holding the purse in President Nina Gatzoulis, Hellenic- him and then mail their letters in,” lows: agreed upon solution to the name one hand and a cellphone in the American National Council Presi- Mr. Goulas said. “In the letter we “Whereas, Greeks of the United dispute, and instead pillages the an- other. He told police that the purse dent Emmanuel Velivasakis, AHEPA had sent to Mr. Lantos, we wrote States, being American citizens and cient history and culture of Macedo- belonged to his girlfriend, but a Executive Director Basil Mossaides, that we Greek Americans would like an integral part of Ecumenical Hel- nia, which is why we demand: check showed that the purse and American Hellenic Institute Execu- the F.Y.R.O.M name issue to be dis- lenism, adopt and support the posi- - F.Y.R.O.M cease and desist from the cellphone both belonged to the tive Director Nick Larigakis, Man- cussed in Congress.” Mr. Goulas tions of the Pan-Macedonian Associ- spreading any and all nationalist woman. atos & Manatos lobby firm Presi- added that AHEPA was working on ation of America on the matter of propaganda in its schools, which The police report said $20 was dent Andrew Manatos, American setting up a meeting with Mr. Lan- the F.Y.R.O.M name dispute, we nurture the younger generations missing from the purse. Hellenic Congress President Dimitri tos, but it never came to pass due to hereby declare towards all parties, with imperialistic ideas, as well as Tampa police put O'Byrne in the Pallas, and representatives for De- his death. Nevertheless, when a and especially towards Greece, tendencies and inclinations towards back seat of a cruiser and several mocratic House Members Zack new Chairman is named in his F.Y.R.O.M, the European Union, the irredentism. people, identified in the police re- Space, Carolyn Maloney, Niki place, Mr. Goulas said that AHEPA United States, and the United Na- - The complete revision of the port as "Canadiens players/mem- Tsongas, and Albio Sires. would resume efforts to schedule a tions that we will never accept the false claims and restitution of the bers" gathered around the car. Po- According to a statement issued meeting. unfounded claims and the irrational historical truth being misrepresent- lice ordered them to back off and after the meeting, Greek Ambas- Mr. Goulas agreed with Mr. Spy- ed in F.Y.R.O.M’s school textbooks. Kostopoulos was arrested when he sador Alexandros Mallias informed ropoulos that the best way for - An end to every unfounded refused to obey the order. the parties in attendance of the Greek Americans to aid in this effort demagoguery, irredentist claim and Both players posted bail in the Greek position on the name issue, is to send letters to their Congress- propaganda from F.Y.R.O.M’s public morning. O'Byrne's was set at and reaffirmed that the Greek Gov- President of the Hellenic Amer- men and Senators calling upon sector and armed forces. $2,000 U.S. and Kostopoulos put ernment is determined to maintain ican National Council Em- them to side with the Greek position Furthermore, we conclude that up $500. an unwavering stance during the manuel E. Velivasakis in this dispute. Greece’s economic diplomacy in re- The team was briefed on the in- upcoming scheduled negotiations AHEPA’s President also said that gards to F.Y.R.O.M. and Greek in- cidents of the night before, and with F.Y.R.O.M. He explained that Greek American citizen are needed. he has invited representatives from vestments there were not only un- O'Byrne and Kostopoulos both the conditions for F.Y.R.O.M. to be “The Greek American Community is all the large Greek American orga- productive towards the improve- apologized to their teammates. admitted into NATO involve adher- not backing down, and it is sticking nization to a meeting on Capital Hill ment of bilateral relations between The two players also met with ence to a policy of good relations to its original positions on this ma- with U.S. Congressmen and Sena- Greece and F.Y.R.O.M, but on the Gainey and head coach Guy Car- with its neighbor Greece, and the jor national issue regarding tors, which will take place on contrary, they were used by the lat- bonneau. "They told us that we arrival of a mutually acceptable res- F.Y.R.O.M’s name. The Greek Amer- AHEPA Day. ter in certain instances as a means wouldn't be suspended, and we're olution on its official name. Ambas- ican Community can also direct its Mr. Goulas offered his opinion to pressure Greece to promote its grateful for that," said Kostopoulos. sador Mallias stressed that Greece attention to the candidates running on Dora Bakoyanni’s visit to Wash- positions. Economic relations Canadiens general manager Bob recognizes and expects the support for President of the United States, ington D.C. and cited mutual re- should not affect major matters of Gainey, Gainey said he would leave of the Greek American Community and now is the right time to do so spect and collaboration between national interest. the matter of discipline up to the in defending this matter of national because this is an election year,” he the Greek Foreign Ministry and We therefore declare that we de- courts. When asked whether he interest. said. AHEPA on various issues. He noted sire the prosperity, progress and de- was concerned that nearly half of The Ambassador also spoke Mr. Spyropoulos was clear in that during this visit, AHEPA will velopment of the people of his team was out at 3 a.m., Carbon- about Greek FM Dora Bakoyanni’s pointing out that SAE USA is in have the opportunity to inform the F.Y.R.O.M and we are dedicated to neau said, "They're adults. They visit to Washington D.C., which complete agreement with the Pan- Greek Foreign Minister on their po- advancing friendship and collabora- can do what they want. They didn't took place from February 13th – Macedonian Association’s position sition on the name dispute with tion between the two peoples. How- have a curfew." 15th, during which time she will on the name dispute with F.Y.R.O.M, and she will have an op- ever, Greek history and the name meet with her counterpart U.S. Sec- F.Y.R.O.M. “We are asking that the portunity to propose various initia- American Hellenic Institute Ex- ‘Macedonia’ were not, are not and The Montreal Gazette published retary of State Condoleezza Rice term “Macedonia” and any deriva- tives that AHEPA can undertake in ecutive Director Nick Larigakis will never be up for negotiation!” the above on February 12. and Deputy Secretary of State John tive not be included in the name of the future. Negroponte to inform them about this former Yugoslav Republic,” he Emmanuel Velivasakis, Presi- Greece’s position regarding said. dent of the Hellenic American Na- F.Y.R.O.M.’s NATO candidacy. For- Mr. Spyropoulos said that he ex- tional Council, told TNH that the eign Minister Bakoyanni will also pected that a full page ad would be Greek American Community has to U.S. HELLENIC HUNTING, FISHING meet with the members of the Con- run in the Washington Post or Wash- begin a systematic campaign of call- gressional Hellenic Caucus. ington Times on February 14th, to ing and sending messages to Con- AND SHOOTING ASSOCIATION During the meeting at the Greek Embassy, it was also decided that a FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION 4523 Broadway, 5B, New York, NY 10040-2417 • Tel.: 212-942-9167 • Ε-mail: [email protected] concerted awareness campaign be undertaken to inform Greek Ameri- cans all across the U.S. about the A NEW SPORTSMEN’S CLUB OF MARKSMANSHIP current status of the F.Y.R.O.M. FISHING AND HUNTING IS BEING LAUNCHED IN THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, PA name dispute in light of the upcom- BY THE NAME OF STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA HELLENIC SPORTSMAN’S CLUB ing discussions involving the latter’s bid to join NATO, and its candidacy The federation invites all of Greek American extraction interested in becoming founding members of this organization to attend a meeting at the community center of the Saint George Greek Orthodox Cathedral as a European Union member state. (256 South Eighth street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Tel.: 215-627-4389) immediately following the Holy Liturgy on A publicity campaign will also be Sunday, March 2, 2008. launched to present the Greek posi- Those interested in attending are asked to carry valid identification. This new medium’s goal is to train all those who are tion through the American media. interested in the environmental, hunting, fishing and marksmanship techniques. Following last Thursday’s meet- www.GreekKitchennyc.com In accordance to the rules and regulations of the federation, all approved candidates will gain affiliation status ing at the Greek Embassy, Mr. Spy- with the National Service of Marksmanship, USA (CMP), the American Federation of Pennsylvania, ropoulos urged Greek Americans to (NRA-State Association, participating in NRA-approved marksmanship programs, competitions and instructor call on their elected Congressmen certifications), the Hellenic American National Council (HANC) and the Federation of Hellenic Societies and Senators to cosponsor Senate of Pennsylvania and Delaware. Furthermore, this new organization will be recognized as a non-profit organization Resolution 300 and House Resolu- (IRA 504) by the Treasury Department , Social Welfare Affairs. tion 356. Over 100 House Members It must be noted that members in good standing of the SPHSC will be granted the privilege of serving as Public Safety and three Senators – Barack Oba- Officers during the Greek Independence Day Parade in Philadelphia and other Hellenic-oriented activities. ma, Olympia Snowe, and Robert Our Federation will participate in the three-day Conference of the Hellenic American National Council (HANC) Menendez – have already signed being held at the Sheraton University City Hotel (215-387-8000). these resolutions. “As American citi- SPHSC’s delegation will be headed by Public Affairs Director (Greece), Constantine Zafirakis zens of Greek heritage, we hold great power and can call upon our ALL ARE WELCOME elected officials to apply pressure Those interested in our program may reach us at 917-399-0394 any time on F.Y.R.O.M. to end its intransi- Stelios (Steve) Manis Panayotis Papadeas John T. Lee, Sr. Gary Anderson Enck Korey gence and contribute towards a mu- Federation President President of the Hellenic President of the Director of Civilian NRA Field Representative tually acceptable solution on its Societies of PA & DE American Federation of Marksmanship name prior to the NATO Summit in PA & DE April, when accession of new mem- 6 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 Springfield Cathedral Damaged by Fire, but Catastrophe is Averted

Continued from page 1 cause of the effects of the fire.” Fr. Stamas thinks that “the dam- “The firefighters did not spot the age done is approximately cause of the fire right away,” Fr. $40,000. It is not a catastrophe. It is Stamos said. not the $325,000 in damage as was “They thought that the smoke initially reported by the Boston was coming from burning oil and Herald and others.” they left. The smoke continued to Fr. Stamas hopes “the insurance pour into the building. Clara company will cover the damage.” Somers did not leave. The boiler Regarding the morale of the man arrived and quickly realized parishioners, Fr. Stamas said that that the smell was not burning oil, “they are very supportive and very but burning wood. He called the emotional at what I would say is fire department back to the Cathe- the thought of what could have dral and, with axes and chainsaws, been. It could have been a catastro- determined that the culprit was a phe. Between the firefighters leav- wire in the wall next to the pangari ing and if we had left it would have (candlestand). been a total loss I think. Had this Presently, both the wall and the fire begun in the middle of the floor next to the pangari are basi- night, or at any other time of the cally gone - chopped away by fire- day or night on any other day, we fighters to make sure the problem would not have been there as we was alleviated. The icon on the were. The firefighters would have wall over the door (Holy Trinity) had to break their way into the was ruined, the floor and several church. We were very blessed and cushions were damaged. Some of very fortunate indeed to have so lit- the ductwork in the boiler needed tle damage done.” replacing and the Cathedral smells He plans to Liturgize in St. like smoke. Crews from InStar (a George’s this coming Sunday and company specializing in this type of said, “I more thankful that you can damage) worked until 7 p.m. Tues- ever think. It confirmed my faith in day night and will be back to con- God. Such a thing happened at the tinue fixing things for us through- exact moment that we were able to out the week. Work is being done LEFT: Springfield firefighters ventilate St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral this morning after a fire caused an estimated $40,000 in damage take care of it.” to the heating system as well be- to the structure. RIGHT: A look from the interior of the church shows some damage to certain localized areas.

SHORT STORY Demetra’s Smile

By Jason C. Mavrovitis Looking over her shoulder, Vasili- electric. We put coal on it to make you?” ki called to Panayiota, “How is coffee, or heat water — and the The social worker took Demetra Peter finished his story and sat Demetra?” room. Round with sand in it. It was a by the neck. “Listen, you baby. You back in his chair to relish his reward; “She’s still sick, mamma. It’s small room. We all slept there in the will come with me to Chicago. Do laughter of the family members who rocking — like the ship.” winter. The heat from the animals you want to go back to your vil- surrounded his Easter table. A thick “She’ll be better when we get came up through cracks in the lage?” black mustache narrowed to points there,” Vasiliki said, fighting the floor.” # at either side of his mouth, mimick- nausea that came over her in waves. “A brazier?” Maria’s husband Demetra took a sip of water, and ing the Greek revolutionaries who Panayiota was also the object of asked then her fingers resumed their work, over a century before, had van- the driver’s leering eyes. Her blond “Resort living,” a voice comment- twisting the ends of a fresh paper quished the Turks in his home re- hair was pinned on top of her head ed. napkin into long, tight points. “That gion of Arcadia. On the table, a loaf in a long, circular braid, and though # lady took us to a train with some of sesame sprinkled, golden brown only thirteen, she had the body of a Demetra watched her uncle take other children.” tsouréki, and plates of koulourakia young woman. She comforted an envelope from his pocket and “Did she go with you?” someone and custard filled phyllo pastry had Demetra whose head hung over the hand it to her mother, saying, asked. replaced the feast’s platters and back of the wagon. Every few min- “Here.” “Yes. I was crying. She was mean. dishes. Peter filled his wine glass utes the little girl moaned, and then “What is it?” She said, ‘The little baby is crying.’ I and took a sip. dry-heaved; there was nothing left “Money. To take you to Costas.” wanted my mother. We were As he scrapped stray crumbs of in her. “What? What are you talking afraid.” bread into little mounds, Peter’s Mid-afternoon, the driver point- about? He didn’t send for us.” # brother leaned forward in his chair ed forward and grumbled, “There. Ioannis looked down and mut- The train rumbled toward Chica- and said, “Tell them about skoupidi, There’s your village.” tered, “He never will.” go. Demetra and Vasilis sat next to and how yiayia chased him out of Demetra raised her head and “What do you mean? As soon as each other. the house.” Short-cropped light struggled to sit upright. She saw two he has his business is in order he’ll “Will babas be waiting for us?” brown hair and a white-toothed lambskins curing on a low-lying …” Vasilis asked. smile made Steve look younger than limb of an olive tree, and then, be- “Never. You fool yourself so that “I don’t know.” his forty-five years. “Our grand- yond them, between the tree’s you can try to fool others and hold “I’m hungry,” he said. mother wanted to kill that donkey.” branches, she glimpsed a woman’s your head up. Costas will never send “Eat some of the food the lady He grinned. “One morning he left a head poking through an opening at for you. He enjoys being a bachelor gave us.” pile of … uh … dung in the front the second story of a stone house. too much.” “What is it?” room.” The woman leaned out of the win- Vasiliki’s hands covered her face “Some kind of meat in bread.” “I want to tell a funny story too,” dow yelling, “She’s coming. She’s and her humiliation. She moaned, “I don’t like it.” Demetra said. Her finely creased, coming. The Amerikanida is com- struggling to pull a goat by the rope riosity held her in place. and reached into her pocket for a “Eat it anyway.” Demetra nibbled delicate, slender face was etched ing.” tied around its neck, skinny, six- “I’ve lost hope for my brother. handkerchief. at her sandwich. with age. She sat for a moment with The driver brought his wagon to year-old Vasilis burst out of a thick- With the war over, I thought he “Mamma. What’s wrong, mam- Hours passed. Sister and brother her mouth set in a slight smile. Her a stop at the bottom of a cobblestone et, calling, “We saw the goat go into would send for his family. But Costas ma?” Demetra put her arm around fell asleep to the thump — thump — glistening blue eyes searched for a walk that was just wide enough to the woods and ran after it.” lives like a man without family. It her mother’s shoulders. Her uncle’s thump of steel wheels striking rail sign of approval from her family. accommodate a small cart. It led up “Good. It’s pappou’s. Bring it to shames me to tell you this about my words had confused her. “Can we joints. Gently, Peter’s wife, Anne a slope into the village. Like a fren- him. He’s under the house — in his brother.” go? Can we go to America?” she # touched Demetra’s forearm and zied flock of giant crows, several tavérna with his friends — drinking “No. Babas is working to send for pleaded. “The lady woke us up just before said, “Tell us.” black-cloaked women hurried out of and telling stories while his goat us. He loves us. Mamma says so.” Ioannis forced his sister-in-law’s we got to Chicago and told us to go Demetra began, slowly. “I don’t their houses and rushed down to- runs away.” Vasiliki walked a few “What can I do?” her grandfather hand open and crushed the enve- to the bathroom, and comb our hair. remember going back –– to Greece.” ward the newcomers. Little Demetra steps, and turned, “Then — inside asked. lope into her palm. “Take the money. We got off the train. We watched the Her fingers worried the paper nap- shrank back from the apparition. — both of you. I have news.” “Do you have any money?” Go. For my family’s honor. To save other children being hugged and kin she held in her hands. “My father They called, “Kyrie Panagoulis. Kyrie “Babas?” Demetra’s excitement “Why?” your children.” kissed. No one was left but us. And sent us — from Chicago to Greece — Panagoulis, your daughter is here. was electric. “Is babas coming to “Send your daughter and grand- Vasiliki reached for Ioannis’ hand then a man walked up and asked the to Zarakova — it was called that With your grandchildren. Without take us to America?” children to America — to Costas. and kissed it. lady, ‘Are these Psihopoulos?’ She then — they changed it to Menalon her husband.” Vasiliki’s eyes filled with tears. Don’t ask. Just send them.” # said ‘Yes,’ and he asked me, ‘Where after the war. It was 1908, or 9. My # “Don’t be silly. Your father is a very “We’ll go to America — to Babas. “Was it a long trip?” Anne asked. is your mother?’ The lady told him mother, sister, brother, and me, “The village women were mean busy man. Someday, when it’s the He will be so happy to see us …” Maria looked at her mother sadly. mamma was still at Ellis Island. when I was two, or three — I don’t to my mother.” Demetra’s voice took right time, he’ll come for us.” “I can’t. I have no money. All I “Did your father know you were Then the man took our bags and remember.” Her fingers twisted the on a shrill tone. “They said, ‘Look, Demetra’s joy vanished. have is this house and the tavérna.” coming, mom?” said, ‘Come.’” napkin’s corners into tortured the Amerikanida is wearing a fancy “But I have good news. You and Demetra’s body sagged at her Demetra’s eyes brightened. She “Was it your father?” Maria points. “Vasilis — Bill — he was just hat.’” Demetra’s face grimaced. Vasilis are going to go to school in grandfather’s words. She heard her smiled at everyone’s attention. “My asked. a baby. Panayiota took care of him. “And they were jealous of her Tripolis.” uncle say, “Perhaps there is another uncle took us to Patras. He sent a “We didn’t know who he was. We She was a good sister. I think about sewing machine. Mamma sewed for # way.” telegram to my father, telling him were afraid. He put us in the back twelve. Maybe thirteen. My mother all the villages near us. That’s how “We stayed with a widow woman # that we were on the way. Uncle paid seat of a car and drove away from had asthma, and my father said she we lived.” in Tripolis. She had three children — “Panayiota married a man from for a cabin for the three of us. There the station. He didn’t say anything.” had to go for her health.” “Didn’t your father send money,” older than us. My mother gave her Tripolis. He didn’t ask for prika so was no window, but we had it all to “What happened?” “He had other ideas,” Peter snig- a voice at the table asked. money every month for our food, she married him — it was hard to ourselves. I was sick all the time. I Demetra paused, looked around gered. “I don’t know,” she whispered. “I but she spent most of it on her fami- get married without a dowry. She couldn’t eat. Bill ate my food.” the table, and smiled. “Now it’s the Anne scowled at her husband. don’t think so. We were so poor. Pap- ly. Vasilis — we were hungry a lot. moved to Tripolis and had a little “How long did the trip take, funny part.” “Shh.” pou helped. But he was poor. He But we didn’t tell mamma. She’d boy the first year — I think 1919 or mom?” her son-in law asked. “Funny?” Anne’s brow was fur- # didn’t own land. When he was worry.” 20.” “A long time. We stopped in Italy. rowed. Their ship docked at Patras. They young, he left Skopi — it’s way “How long were you there?” an- “Were you in Tripolis or Menalon Or France. Maybe Naples.” “Yes. The man took us to a build- had survived two days on a rum- around the mountain — and went to other voice asked. then?” Maria asked. She had been “Was it Marseilles?” Maria asked. ing, and up two or three stairs to an bling train from Chicago to New Davia — where my mother was born “I don’t know. One year. Two.” listening intently to her mother’s “I don’t know. We stayed in our apartment. We went in and there York, and then a tedious ten-day sea — with nothing. And then — I don’t “What did you do?” every word. hotel room for two, maybe three was no one there. He told us to wait voyage. After that, a donkey-wagon know why — they, they left Davia — “We went to school and learned “Menalon. I was eleven or days waiting for the boat. Mamma in a room with chairs and a sofa. We caravan bore them through Achaia it was just down the road — to come to read and write. The magpie twelve.” and Vasilis went for walks. I was were scared. I walked around the to Arcadia — to the center of the to Menalon. We had a little stone taught me to sew. But with needle “What did you do in the village?” afraid. I stayed in our room. A nice room. There was a fireplace, and on Peloponnesos, and delivered them house. We didn’t have water in our and thread. No sewing machine.” “Helped my mother. She would- man, maybe French, helped us to the shelf, there was a picture. It was to the city of Tripolis. house. We got it from the spring “Then what happened?” n’t let me work in the fields.” Deme- buy food. He went on the next ship my mother and the man. I showed # way up the mountain. Menalon “There were wars with the Turks tra’s voice became shrill again. “The with us. Mamma liked him.” Vasilis and he said, ‘That man must Demetra twisted her napkin. “We Mountain. There is a church on top.” and the Bulgarians. And then the big women were mean. They said, “Where did the next ship take be babas.’” didn’t go to mamma’s village — “It’s a monastery,” Gus’s voice war.” ‘Demetra is too good to work. Her you?” someone asked. “Was it?” Maria asked. Davia. Pappou had moved to the boomed. # mother is from America — with a She answered, “To Ellis Island.” “Yes. But we weren’t sure.” next village, to Menalon. It’s closer Demetra looked at her husband’s Demetra watched her uncle Ioan- rich husband. Why did he send her And then she continued, proudly, “I “Didn’t he hug you? Or kiss you?” to Tripolis. They changed the name heavy-set nephew. “Not like my nis down a glass of raki. “Who made back?’” had my Birth Certificate. I was born “No. He came back later and from Zarakova after the last war.” side,” she thought. “Not our blood.” this?” “Listen to her. What does she in Chicago. So was Bill. But mamma showed us a room with one bed. He “We’re all probably Slavs, maybe “The sheep and goats stayed in Demetra’s grandfather smiled. know?” Demetra’s husband glow- was not a citizen, so they made us go said, ‘You’ll sleep here.’ Vasilis let me even Bulgarians,” Peter said. the cellar all winter,” she continued. “My cousin in Davia. It’s good, isn’t ered at her from across the table. “It to Ellis Island.” have the bed. He slept on the floor. “No. Greek,” Demetra insisted. “You could feel the heat from them. it?” He shaped the points of his mus- was good enough for us.” He held # And a lady came and cooked for us. “Blond hair. Blue eyes. Just like the And smell them. My pappou had a tache. “What do you hear from out his wine glass for his nephew to Frightened, Demetra clutched She took our dirty cloths and told us ancient Greeks.” little tavérna. Men were there every Costas?” refill, and then cocked his head, her mother’s arm. “I don’t want to go she would come every day to check # day, drinking coffee or wine. Some- Demetra’s eyes widened. “He’ll inviting affirmation from his without you, mamma. I want to stay on us. We saw the man in the morn- They left Tripolis early in the times raki.” Her face brightened. send for us soon,” she thought. nephew. with you.” ing and at night.” morning on a wagon drawn by two “He was an actor. Every time there “We’ll go to America, to a big house, “That’s right, Uncle Jim.” Peter A bony-faced Greek social work- Demetra paused and looked lethargic, fly-covered beasts. It was panigyri, pappou would tell sto- with lots of food, and pretty dress- filled his uncle’s glass, and his own. er with a tight bun of brown-gray, around the table for a reaction. bounced and rolled on a narrow, rut- ries and make plays. He acted all the es.” They gulped their wine simultane- thin hair scowled at Demetra. “Sssh, Everyone’s eyes were on her. The ted road that passed through a parts, and sang songs. Everyone Petros turned to her. “Go and ously. little girl.” room was still. She smiled. “Isn’t deeply wooded valley. Brownish- loved him. He had a white horse. He help your mother, Demetra. I have “Is that why you all left?” Anne “You can’t take my children,” that a funny story?” yellow dust rose each time the don- wore a foustanélla, just like the business to talk about with your asked, looking at Demetra’s hus- Vasiliki cried. keys’ hoofs struck the earth. It set- Evzones.” pappou.” band and each of his three nephews. The social worker spoke in a flat tled in their hair, and on their cloth- “That costume came from the Al- Demetra stepped through the “Because it was so great?” voice. “I’ll take them to Chicago with ing and skin. banians,” Steve interjected. low door that led out of the dirt- Steve murmured, “There wasn’t the other children.” When he cried, Vasiliki held little Anne scowled at Steve. “Shh.” floored tavérna. Outside, the sun’s enough land. We had to leave.” He “Why? Why can’t I go? Why can’t Short Stories Vasilis to her breast, covering his # searing corona filled the sky. She re- looked around the table for support. my children stay with me?” The National Herald invites head with a lace shawl. The di- “Demetra. Vasilis. Where are coiled out of the bright heat into the Anne put her arm around Deme- “I told you. You’re quarantined. If Greek American writers to sheveled donkey driver’s eyes darted you? Demetra?” Vasiliki walked out shade of the house’s eaves, just un- tra’s shoulder. “What happened you don’t have tuberculosis you’ll be submit original short stories quickly to catch a glimpse of the of the village and up the mountain- der the opening that delivered light next, Aunt Demetra?” allowed to leave.” (not exceeding 3,000 words) dark haired woman’s white bosom. side toward forest. “Demetra,” she into the cellar space. “So?” Demetra # “But …” to be published in future is- But the umbrella that she held with called again. heard her pappou ask. “What have “One day my uncle came to see “Do you want to be sent back to sues of the newspaper. Please her free hand to shield her and her “I’m coming, mamma,” Demetra you learned about Costas that you my mother. They sat in the room Greece?” send all submissions to pub- baby from the desiccating sun of the answered. “Vasilis is with me.” didn’t want Demetra to hear?” She with the heater and she made cof- “Oh.” [email protected]. Peloponnesos frustrated him. Trailing behind his sister, and felt guilty eavesdropping; but cu- fee. Not a heater like we have. Not “Mamma, why can’t we stay with THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 FEATURE 7

RESTAURANT REVIEW A Little Bit of Hospitality and a Whole Lot of Mouth-Watering Meals at Philoxenia

By Nick Mavrakis adds fresh tomatoes, peppers, and Special to The National Herald the mellow taste of garlic. The salads available consist of Philoxenia Restaurant that ever-present pillar of Greek 718-785-1007 salads, the horiatiki (tomato, cu- 32-07 34th Ave., Astoria cumber, peppers, onions, olives, and feta); the prasini (romaine let- Appetizers: $5 - $16 tuce, scallions, and dill); and a rar- Main Courses: $12 - $21 er delight in the form of the Pilio (romaine lettuce, onions, walnuts, I had mentioned in a previous feta, all tossed in a light balsamic article that there was some debate dressing). as to the true definition of the word One appetizer that caught my “Philoxenia.” Although some say eye was the Gemisto Calamari that it can’t be properly translated (stuffed squid). This comes whole, into English, the general consensus with the calamari being stuffed is that it means “hospitality”, or as a with pieces of graviera cheese, bits more literal translation, “friend of of tomatoes, and peppers, and is strangers.” Regardless of the trans- grilled to the point where the lation, it’s safe to say that Philoxe- cheese melts and literally oozes nia Restaurant on 34th Avenue in out. When served, the calamari had Astoria brings all the warmth and a distinctive smell of the ocean, as invitation associated with the fresh seafood should, and was won- word. derfully tender, with the flavors all Originally on 23rd Avenue, mixing together in perfect syn- when Philoxenia’s lease had ex- chronicity. I would definitely rec- pired, the mother-daughter team of ommend an order of this. Dionysia Germani and Nancy Besides the Daily Specials, Gavopoulou decided to reopen at a where a menu constantly rotates, newer, larger venue – this time offering a different selection of with the addition of co-owners An- main courses every day, there are tonis Manolas and Vasilis Gialouris, some constants for entrées at who were ardent customers of the Philoxenia. Whole fish, such as original incarnation. The new and Sinagrida (Red Snapper), Tsipoura improved Philoxenia, which has (Royal Dorado), Lavraki (Loup de been operating for about a month Mer), and Black Sea Bass all come and a half, seeks to deliver the great ABOVE and RIGHT: Photos market-priced, and are cooked on a Greek dishes (many from Ms. Gera- from Philoxenia Restaurant’s charcoal-grill, served authentically mani’s home of Pilio) and comfort- grand opening. The restaurant with a home blend of ladolemono ing environment to a larger group is divided into two sections, a (extra virgin olive oil and lemon), of clientele. brightly-lit bar and café area and are all de-boned on request. Al- In the case of Philoxenia’s interi- and the main seating and din- ternatively, salmon and Striped or feel and look, the restaurant is ing area. The bar allows pa- Bass are also available as cuts of fil- divided into two main sections. As trons to enjoy a small cocktail lets, and come charcoal-grilled. you walk in, you’ll come to the or aperitif before a meal. The On the side of meat dishes, some brightly-lit bar and café area, food at Philoxenia emphasizes Greek classics are available. where a small number of tables are the idea of Greek homestyle Paidakia (lamb chops), Brizola set up on the stone tiled floors, and cooking for its Astoria and (rib-eye steak), and Kotopoulo a medium-sized bar engulfs a good Greater New York clientele. Souvlaki (chicken skewers) all chunk of the corner. This is where come grilled to your liking. I went you can have a seat and enjoy a eloquent dining-ware, awaiting po- for the Bifteki Gemisto, the Greek small cocktail or aperitif before tential diners. version of a burger, lightly sea- your meal, enjoying the sounds of As in many Greek restaurants, soned, but in Philoxenia’s take on flowing water from the nearby before you order, you’ll be brought it, coming stuffed with fresh toma- stone fountain. a basket of warmed pita and sliced toes, peppers, and feta cheese. All Walking further in, you’ll find bread, drizzled with a bit of olive worked effectively to make for a the main seating and dining area. oil and sesame seeds; these are ad- tasty, tender meal. Main courses This was an area of much activity equate on their own, but serve as a come with a choice of fries, greens, during my visit there, with Ms. little nudge towards the fine selec- or rice topped with cheese. Gavopoulou setting tables and or- tion of spreads, such as tzatziki, For dessert, you’ll have a choice naments in just the right way, ar- taromosalata, and melitzanosalata. of galaktobouriko, karidopita, or ranging the scene for the photogra- The tirokafteri I had was delightful- yogurt served with nuts and spoon- pher that was taking pictures for ly creamy, yet not too spicy, coming sweets. The sweet galaktoboriko I their upcoming website. This huge as a thick white spread with liberal had was generously large, and area sets the tone for the restau- specks of peppers here and there, came drizzled with honey and rant, with a notable brown and red adding a multicolor element to the speckled with cinnamon. hue that conveys a sense of cozi- appetizer. These are all available Nancy Gavopoulou emphasized ness and relaxation. Numerous individually, or as a “pikilia”, where the idea of Greek, “spitika” (home- teacups, black and white photos, you can sample them all on one style) cooking and hospitality to mirrors, and other decorations plate. me. That was the underlying princi- hang from the redbrick walls. A The other first courses on offer ple behind Philoxenia. With its large, antiquated rocking chair are a variety of different seafood, great food, lovely atmosphere, and stands tilted in front of a stone, meat, salad, and cheese dishes. The restaurant mainstays. The Hori- based sauce, and topped with melt- the form of Patates tou Spirlou generous space that this new venue burning fireplace. Semi-modern popular Octapodi, which comes atiko Loukaniko is the rich village ed feta. A more uncommon appe- comes as thick-cut, fried potatoes brings, Philoxenia has all the ele- chandeliers are suspended from a grilled and seasoned with olive oil, sauasage, appearing here with a tizer in the Piperies Psites takes and crumbles feta cheese atop it. ments working in its favor to bring ceiling adorned with wooden and the Calamarakia, which come tinge of leek to it. The Bekri Meze is grilled, whole peppers, and stuffs Then there’s the wonderful feta a taste of Greece, and more specifi- beams. Tables are lined up in a grid traditionally fried like the old tav- a traditional dish of veal and pork them with graviera cheese. A varia- saganaki: a slab of feta cheese cally, Pilio, to the wide audience of formation, all prearranged with erna favorite, are always Greek cuts, cooked in a fresh tomato- tion of “patates tiganites” (fries) in that’s baked in aluminum foil, and Astoria. The Filmography and Hollywood Careers of the Condos Brothers Dancers

By Steve Frangos part of this typical floor show. The ous question here, if you’re a Greek underline the fact that the Condos in the 1950 film, “The Star Spangled This nostalgia for a lost era of Special to The National Herald theatre doors opened at 9:30AM. American, is since we see the An- Brothers inevitably appeared on Review,” since Steve Condos per- great performance is the very Don Baker provided an opening solo drews Sisters and the Condos Broth- film with some of the greatest Holly- formed as himself. As in other films premise of the 1975 documentary PART FOUR and other background music on the ers perform together (or right after wood performers. In this film, we in which the Condos Brothers per- “Hurray for Hollywood.” Frank and The Condos Brothers dance Paramount Theatre organ. The each other) in various music and find Edgar Bergen, W.C. Fields, formed in this production we find Harry Condos appear as themselves team included some of the finest stage show included Ina Ray Hutton dances scenes wouldn’t they have Bonita Granville, Sammy Kaye, and none other than Frank Sinatra, Bob doing several of their routines. The rhythm dancers ever to perform on and Her Melo-Dears, Vic Hyde, the also talked together off camera? other performers. Hope and Peggy Lee. This film has star studded cast of this film with stage or screen. Sixteen different One Man Swing Band, Mary Small With the 1941 film, “Moon Over During World War II, Betty much in common with the next persons such as Mickey Rooney, films forever document the extraor- who was held over but with an all Miami,” which was based on the Grable was considered the number filmed production Steve Condos Fred Astaire, Jean Harlow, Shirley dinary dancing abilities and sheer new song routine and the Condos play “three Blind Mice,” was anoth- one pin-up girl by American service performed in as a dancer. Temple, John Wayne, Carole Lom- exuberance of these Greek-Ameri- Brothers. The dancing duo was not- er film which included an impres- men. For those too young to recall The television extravaganza, bard and so many others once can brothers. It is equally astound- ed as the ‘Dancing Stars of “Wake sive roster of Hollywood perform- this fact if they have seen the film “Meet Me After the Show,” released again clearly indicates that the ing to realize that the Condos Up and Live.” After the stage show ers. Aside from the Condos Brothers “Stalag 17” much time is spent dis- on October 15, 1951, includes Steve Condos Brothers were ranked Brothers have been so completely finished the feature film was pre- this film included Don Ameche, Bet- cussing this fact. At some point Hol- Condos teamed up with Jerry among the very elite of Hollywood forgotten by the Greek-American ceded by a new Popeye the Sailor ty Grable, Robert Cummings, Carole lywood promoters insured Ms. Brandow “as a pair of stage performers of all time. For those community from which they cartoon. What the advertisement Landis, and Jack Haley along with a Grable’s legs for a million dollars. hoofers.” This film’s cast includes who might still somehow doubt sprang. fails to note is how many of these host of other familiar character ac- Aptly enough Grable became Betty Grable, Macdonald Carey, Ro- that the Condos Brothers were In 1929, at the height of their stage shows took place in any given tors of the era. During this film known as ‘the woman with the mil- ry Calhoun and Eddie Albert among among the greatest rhythm tap fame, the ‘King and King’ dance day. This advertisement also does Frank and Harry dance with Betty lion dollar legs.’ As part of all this others. What is striking about Steve dancers of all time we offer Steve team of Frank Condos and Mattie not report which of the four broth- Grable in two numbers ‘You Started war period propaganda and Holly- Condos’ three films in the 1950s is Condos’ master performance of the Olvera split up. Frank immediately ers was performing. Something’ and ‘Solitary Seminole.’ wood hoopla Ms. Grable was also, that his role is very self-consciously “Challenge Dance” in the widely ac- teamed up with his brother Nick as The chronology of Condos Broth- for a brief period, Hollywood’s num- offered as nostalgic. Condos is al- claimed dance film ‘Taps’ (1989). the “Condos Brothers.” The duo ers films is as follows. Their first film ber one box office star. Not unex- ways presented as simultaneously Many will object to this survey quickly joined “Vanities” a Broad- was ‘The Midshipmaid’ (1932) with It is equally astounding pectedly, then, in 1944 Betty himself and as a noted ‘hoofer.’ The of the Condos Brother’s career. I way musical review. With Frank Nick and Steve credited as the Con- to realize that the Grable’s film was called “Pin-Up intent here is clear. The Condos have said nothing of their extensive Condos as leader the four Condos dos Brothers. In ‘Dancing Feet’ Girl” and it featured Grable as one Brothers represent the quintessen- stage work. I have offered nothing Brothers danced as duos and trios (1936) Nick Condos, performed so- Condos Brothers have of the hostesses at a military can- tial stage dancers. of their lives after they gave up in different combinations over the lo. Then in the 1937 musical ‘Wake been so completely teen. These canteens were the pre- “She’s Back on Broadway,” musi- dancing. Steve Condos never years in their seemingly endless Up and Live,’ Nick and Steve team forgotten by the Greek cursors to USO clubs. Grable ap- cal released on March 14, 1953 stopped dancing and in fact died af- stream of stage, nightclub, and up once again. In 1938, Nick and pears as Lorry Jones one of the local headlines with Virginia Mayo who ter a performance in Europe. What movie appearances. In 1930, when Steve appear in ‘Happy Landing.’ American community. girls who dances with off-duty ser- plays Catherine Terris a Hollywood is important to focus on here is not “Vanities” opened at the London Now should anyone think the Con- vicemen about to go to war. Per- actress who has ‘hit the skids’ and so what I have omitted but that so Palladium Frank and Nick Condos dos Brothers were appearing in In films and during stage perfor- formers Martha Raye and Joe E. heads back to Broadway to rekindle much more can be said about were so popular they performed films of little consequence we need mances the Condos Brothers some Brown offer additional musical her career. Steve Condos and Jerry Greek-Americans as dancers in there non-stop for the next two only note that four of the other per- times appeared with the addition numbers, a great deal of comedy Brandow perform as noted Broad- North America than is now widely years. formers were none other than Sonja dance partner, in this case, it was fe- and interact with those two dancers way dancers. understood within our community. While undoubtedly the duo test- Henie, Don Ameche, Ethel Merman male star Betty Grable. At the time Frank and Harry Condos. ed and changed their choreography and Cesar Romero. In 1939, the Vi- (and for many viewers today) these “Hey Rookie,” a musical released over time one dance sequence soon taphon studio issues the short ‘The two dances with Frank and Harry in 1944 musical is included in vari- became a signature routine. It Broadway Buckaroo’ with Frank, Condos and Betty Grable remain ous essays about the Condos Broth- “started with a Soft-Shoe dance Nick and Steve, as the Condos two of the most memorable ever ers as a film they performed in but I done to the song ‘Tea for Two,’ then Brothers. While a short feature film, filmed during the Golden Age of can find no collaborating evidence Don’t miss... a Clog dance to ‘Three O’Clock in ‘The Broadway Buckaroo,’ show- Hollywood musicals. Dance fanatics for their participation. With so the Morning’ and finally a fast paced cased Red Skelton and his wacky don’t’ agree asserting that Grable’s many stories floating around about The National Herald’s Challenge dance done to ‘June plan to open a night-club dude dancing skills were not up to the which films these dancers did or did Night’ (www.streetswing.com).” ranch on Broadway. The very first task and that “this only served to not perform in it is best to be skepti- You can actually see elements of this act Skelton hires is the Condos force the brothers to tone down cal and base all of our attention to routine in available films and on the Brothers. there dancing skills, which is disap- sources material we can trust. Internet YouTube website which On May 30, 1941, ‘In The Navy’ pointing to tap enthusiast.” Coinci- Such was the notoriety of the features three short clips of the Con- is released with Frank and Harry as dently, Hermes Pan in an uncredited Condos Brothers dance team (what- Biannual insert: dos Brothers dancing, at the first a pair of dancing sailors. This film is role also danced with Betty Grable ever the combination might be) that two dances, of this routine. often, mistakenly called ‘Abbott and in this film during the ‘Conga’ in the 1946 film, “The Time, the From 1932 into the 1950s, the Costello in the Navy,’ since this com- dance. So that makes three of the Place, and the Girl,” that Frank and Condos Brothers performed live at edy team headlines the film. Includ- most notable male dancers of the Harry Condos appear as themselves theatres and on the screen. To cite ed in the roster of performers in this day trying to make Betty Grable doing their routine in—of all but one example of the kind of stage zany extravaganza are Dick Powell, look good were also all Greek- places–a noisy nightclub. Steve Books productions the Condos Brothers Clara Dodd, Shemp Howard (of Americans. Condos always asserted he per- took part in theatres we can note the Three Stooges’ fame) and the three “Song of An Open Road,” re- formed in the 1948 short feature May 19, 1937, opening of the Holly- Andrews Sisters: Patty, Maxene, and leased in 1944, includes among a film, “Buddy Rich and His Orches- wood film, “Turn Off The Moon,” at Laverne. This film is often credited long list of Hollywood stars, as well tra” but, again, I can find collabora- Coming soon... the Paramount Theatre in Times as a lighted hearted wartime fa- as Frank, Harry and Steve Condos. tive evidence. To advertise call (718) 784-5255 Square. The Condos Brothers were vorite by many film critics. The obvi- The reason to stress this point is to We have no problem judging this 8 OBITUARIES CLASSIFIEDS THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 Sen. Adeline Geo-Karis, 89; A Force in Illinois Politics Calliope Tsoulias Braun, Manager,

By Susan Kuczka seen the likes of her before. help her blend into her elementary was a stumbling block. The "boys" Owner and Restaurant Designer Chicago Tribune “She was the most determined school on Chicago's West Side, nev- decided who should run and who woman I ever met,” said Louis At- er thought it would. should wait their turn. Geo-Karis Calliope Tsoulias Braun, 76, a young employees over the years; A woman of firsts, state Sen. saves, a longtime friend who head- Geo-Karis repeatedly told her decided to jump into the field but retired manager, owner and de- friends and business associates Adeline Geo-Karis drove her way ed Geo-Karis' campaign team the dad of her dreams of becoming a lost her bid for Congress in 1962. signer of restaurants in the Wash- knew her as a champion of the dis- into the “good ole boys” network to last 20 years. lawyer. Boys, not girls, grew up to She persevered and was elected ington area, died January 26 of a advantaged. With the couple's com- become an icon in Illinois political That determination helps ex- be lawyers, her father insisted. But to four terms in the Illinois House pulmonary embolism at her home pany offices and production shops circles. plain how a native of Tegeas, after graduating from Austin High before she won election to the Illi- in Edgewater. in Anacostia, she insisted on stay- She was the first woman to be- Greece – whose parents brought School in 1936 and Herzl Junior nois Senate in 1979. Mrs. Braun, known as Katina, ing in the neighborhood despite come dean of the Illinois Senate her to the United States when she College two years later, she attend- Geo-Karis pushed for improved was born in Washington to Greek losing a building to arson and being and the first woman to serve in was 4 – managed to climb to the ed Northwestern University, then monitoring of the state's nuclear immigrant parents. A graduate of shot at during the 1968 riots. Senate leadership as assistant ma- pinnacle of political power, serving DePaul University Law School. She plants, including Zion's, and help- Woodrow Wilson High School, she Her first marriage ended in di- jority leader, from 1993 to 2003. In more than three decades in Spring- was the only woman in her class. ing reduce taxes for seniors. She al- began working at an early age, first vorce. north suburban Lake County, she field. An unabashed patriot, Geo- so sponsored a law that allows for a as a floor manager at a McCrory's She moved to Edgewater in was the first woman elected to the A former lieutenant commander Karis enlisted in the Navy Reserve court verdict of guilty but mentally variety store on North Capitol 1971, after a second marriage to House and to the Senate, the first in the Navy Reserve, Geo-Karis also in the 1940s, where her gusty na- ill. Street. She also managed several Bernie J. Braun Jr., a retired Mont- female prosecutor in the state's at- had a take-no-prisoner attitude to- ture helped her achieve the rank of Still, Geo-Karis believed she small businesses in the District, in- gomery County police officer. He torney's office, the county's first ward her colleagues. lieutenant commander -- breaking could do more for her hometown as cluding food markets, convenience taught her to handle and fire a gun, woman elected justice of the peace “I think the boys have been be- what U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) mayor and was elected to the post stores and a dry cleaner. and she enjoyed honing her skill at and the first female mayor of Zion. having very responsibly, which called the "steel ceiling" because so in 1987. In the 1950s and 1960s, she and the shooting range. The couple also “She was a true pioneer,” Dan pleases me to no end because few women won rank then. All the while, 31st District voters her husband, Telemachos "Mike" enjoyed travel. Venturi, chairman of the Lake they'd have me on their backs again After the military, Geo-Karis from Waukegan to the McHenry John Morfessis, put together a con- Mrs. Braun was an expert cook County Republican Party, said Mon- if they didn't,” she said after a skir- moved to Zion and hyphenated her County border continued sending struction company that specialized who specialized in Mediterranean day as word spread that Geo-Karis, mish over boating issues in the last name for emphasis, Atsaves her back to Springfield. And she in designing, building and remod- cuisine. She also loved to dance 89, of Zion, had died the night be- Chain o' Lakes. said. In 1949, at age 31, she won mentored dozens of women who eling restaurants, more than 600 in and often won prizes for her Greek fore of natural causes in Glenbrook Even Democrats marveled at her election as a justice of the peace. wanted to follow in her political all. One of the first she designed, in folk dancing. Hospital in Glenview. tenacity. She married local teacher Louis footsteps. the 1950s, was the Gaslight Inn on Survivors include her husband For Venturi and others, Geo- “She didn't forget the life experi- Lambros, but they divorced six One eventually challenged Geo- Eighth Street near H Street. A of 37 years, of Edgewater; four chil- Karis was a political godmother – a ences that shaped her and never years later. The couple had no chil- Karis for her Senate seat, leading to daughter recalled that the restau- dren from her first marriage, Peter- woman who cracked the glass ceil- lost the common touch,” Gov. Rod dren. her unplanned retirement from the rant featured a large jukebox that john Morfessis of New Windsor, ing before anyone knew there was Blagojevich said in a prepared In 1958, Geo-Karis accepted ap- legislature in 2006. Geo-Karis, played what today would be called Md., Ioanna Morfessis and Chrisan- one. Using her intelligence, wit and statement. pointment as a prosecutor in the however, wasn't one to hold a music videos. The videos highlight- the Morfessis, both of Phoenix, charm, she schemed, finagled and Success didn't come easily. But state's attorney's office. Her job grudge. “I don't regret a thing,” she ed tunes from around the world. Ariz., and Dimitrios Morfessis of cajoled her way into a men-only Geo-Karis, who changed her first helping others seek justice persuad- said. Mrs. Braun and her first hus- Rockville; and a son from her sec- Republican network that had rarely name from Antigone to Adeline to ed her to go into politics, but there band also owned and managed sev- ond marriage, Mark Braun of eral other restaurants, including Bowie; a sister, Panagiota Babbis of Judges Inn on Wisconsin Avenue Wheaton; and two grandchildren. NW and Olympic Inn on 20th Street NW, between L and M. The Washington Post published DEATHS She was a mentor to many the above on February 8.

■ FIKARIS, BILL Club of Springfield, a Chapter of member of the Enosis Greek Ladies George's outstanding communica- HOUSTON, Texas – The Houston ZONTA International, and was a Society and also was a member of tion skills (English Major at Brown), Chronicle reported that Bill Fikaris, Charter Member of the original the Daughters of Penelope Medon found him rising to the level of Se- CLASSIFIEDS 82, passed away on Wednesday, Feb- Springfield Historical Commission. Chapter 215, serving on the board of nior Vice President of Marketing for ruary 6, 2008. He was in the comfort She was a member of St. George directors as an officer and chair of the Sperry Rand (UNIVAC) Corpora- of his home surrounded by his wife Greek Orthodox Cathedral and Sts. various committees. In November tion where George sold many of the HELP WANTED FUNERAL HOMES and children. He is survived by his Peter and Paul Russian Orthodox 2006, she received a 60-year mem- Fortune 100 Companies their 1st wife Despina; his sons Harry Church, both of Springfield. The fu- bership. Mrs. Psilekas' husband Mainframe Computer. George VIDEO PHOTOGRAPHER/ CONSTANTINIDES (Sheila), Jimmy (Julie) and Michael neral was held on February 12 at St. served as a U.S. Army career officer resided in Stamford CT with his fam- CINEMATOGRAPHER FUNERAL PARLOR Co. (Vicky); his daughter Maria (Chris); George Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the family traveled and lived ily during his tenure at UNIVAC. In INTERN WANTED 405 91st Street his grandchildren John, Gigi, Mina, in Springfield. Memorial donations abroad for a number of years before Stamford George was an active Have an eye for video? The Nation- Bay Ridge - Brooklyn, NY 11209 Stephanie, Nicole, Diana, Katie, Vic- to the American Cancer Society retiring and relocating to Marlbor- Greek Orthodox Sunday School al Herald is looking for college-lev- (718) 745-1010 toria, Eleni, Gracie, and his name- (Centralized Memorial Processing ough. She then was employed in the Teacher as a member of the Church el VIDEO PHOTOGRAPHERS for Services in all localities - sake Vasili; his sister-in-law Anna Center, 30 Speen St., Framingham, office of Dr. Monthe Kofos as secre- of the Archangels, Basketball Coach, internship opportunities. Earn Low cost shipping to Greece Payavla; his nephews Dimitry MA 01701) or Shriner' s Hospital for tary/receptionist for 17 years until and inspiration to all who knew him. credit towards your degree and (Karen) and Marcus; and his niece Children (516 Carew St., Spring- her retirement in 1983, when they George went on to provide Market- gain valuable experience in the ANTONOPOULOS Callie. He was born in Chios, Greece field, MA 01104). moved to Cape Cod, and moved ing Consulting Services throughout world of journalism. Send current FUNERAL HOME, INC. and came to the United States in back to Marlborough in 2001. While the US for several companies. Even- resume, cover letter, and optional- Konstantinos Antonopoulos - 1952 to live the American dream. He ■ KYRIAKOS SKIOURIS living on the Cape, she was very ac- tually, George's entrepreneurial spir- ly, a link to a web-based example of Funeral Director moved to Houston, Texas in 1952 af- CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte tive in the St. George Greek Ortho- it focused on a new invention: the your work (e.g. YouTube) to: pho- 38-08 Ditmars Blvd., ter marrying his wife, Despina. He Observer reported that Kyriakos dox Church and its choir and activi- first computerized cash register [email protected] Astoria, New York 11105 began a career in the restaurant Skiouris, 86, passed away peacefully ties. She transferred Daughters of (Registar, Inc.1971). Unfortunately, (718) 728-8500 business and owned several in the on Friday, February 8, 2008 at his Penelope membership to the Tyche George's illness took hold and the LEADING GREEK AMERICAN Not affiliated with any Houston area. He was a member of home surrounded by his family. He is Chapter, serving on the board of di- company was dissolved. George sub- NEWSPAPER SEEKS other funeral home. the Annunciation Greek Orthodox survived by his wife Helen Kerhoulas rectors, and chairing fund-raising ac- sequently moved the family back to Full-time AD sales representatives Church and a member of the Gray Skiouris; his son Dr. John K. tivities. She was a member of St. the Hartford area for medical treat- for both GREEK and ENGLISH lan- APOSTOLOPOULOS Masonic Lodge #329 for over 50 Skiouris; his daughters Vickie Bakos George Seniors Club, and in the late ment where he worked for many guage publications. Applicants Apostle Family - years. He enjoyed family gatherings (Larry) and Aphroula Couchell 1990s, she received the Daughters of years for the State of Connecticut's should have some sales and/or mar- Gregory, Nicholas, Andrew - and holidays, playing cards with his (John); his grandchildren Lena, Penelope of the year award at the Department of Labor (Data Process- keting experience. Fluency with Funeral Directors of buddies, and fishing for hours on John, Kyriakos, Stephanos, Renee, District Convention for her many ing Department). George was hired computer use and knowledge of In- RIVERDALE Galveston Bay. He was a devoted Billy, Patricia, Ellen and Nicholas; years of service. For the past year, by the State of Connecticut through ternet a plus. Bi-lingual command FUNERAL HOME Inc. husband for 55 years, father and and his great-grandson Ioannis she was a resident of the Holy Trinity a new program initiated by then of both languages preferred. This 5044 Broadway beloved “Papou.” He will be missed Pournaras. Born in Karyae, Greece, Eastern Orthodox Nursing Home of Governor Ella Grasso 'Hire the positions offers base salary, plus New York, NY 10034 dearly by his family and friends. on May 5, 1921, he was one of 10 Worcester, where she became an ac- Handicapped Campaign'. George commissions. E-mail resume and (212) 942-4000 Friends are cordially invited to a vis- children born to John and Aphrodite tive member of the community. She was a spokesperson for the program cover letter to [email protected] Toll Free 1-888-GAPOSTLE itation with the family from six o'- Skiouris. He served in the Greek Na- was an avid reader, bowler, cross- and 1st year Poster-Champion, as a FAX: (718) 472-0510 Attn. Publish- clock until half-past seven o'clock in tional Army during World War II, word puzzle solver and dancer. She member of both the PVA (Paralyzed er or call (718) 784-5255 ask for LITRAS FUNERAL HOME the evening on Sunday, the 10th of and was captured by the Germans also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, Veterans of America) and the DAV Veta. ARLINGTON BENSON DOWD, February in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. and held captive for eight months. In gardening and traveling. Most of all (Disabled American Veterans). INC FUNERAL HOME H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive 1967, he moved his family to Ameri- she was devoted to her family and George retired from State Service in JOURNALISTS WANTED 83-15 Parsons Blvd., in Houston, with Trisagion Prayers ca in search for a better life. His jour- friends and she was loved, admired 1989. George received a War Medal Nation’s leading Greek American Jamaica, NY 11432 commencing at half-past six o'clock ney began in New Buffalo, Michigan, and respected by all who knew her. from the President of South Korea newspaper, The National Herald, (718) 858-4434 • (800) 245-4872 in the evening. The funeral was held where his family was sponsored by The funeral was at February 15 at commemorating the gratitude for needs reporters and assistant editor on February 11 at Annunciation his brother-in-law, Mike Kerhoulas, Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox George's Military Service at a special for English weekly paper. Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Hous- and ended in Charlotte, N.C. where Church in Marlborough. Burial was 50th Anniversary Ceremony in the Exceptional writing/reporting TO PLACE YOUR ton. Burial was at Forest Park Lawn- his sister Maria Kastanas lived. Dur- at Evergreen Cemetery in Marlbor- Rocky Hill Town Hall in 2000 as pre- skills and bilingual fluency a must. CLASSIFIED AD, CALL: dale Cemetery. Memorial donations ing the early years, he worked at An- ough. Memorial donations to either sented by Congressman John Larson Car a plus. Fax or e-mail clips and (718) 784-5255, EXT. 106, to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox dersons Restaurant and later Sts. Anargyroi Greek Orthodox (CT). George was a generous and cover letter to 718-472-0510 or E-MAIL: Church Redevelopment Fund (3511 worked at Lance Company were he Church Building Fund or the Activi- caring man who would defend his [email protected]. classifieds@ thenationalherald.com Yoakum Boulevard, Houston, TX retired after 15 years of service ties Fund at the Holy Trininty East- beliefs and those close to him. He 111609/01 77006). working in the candy department. ern Orthodox Nursing Home (300 loved to read, write, dance, and sing, He was very proud of his Greek her- Barber ave., Worcester, MA 01606). and would light up the room upon ■ KALITA, ATHENA itage, and his new home. He was an entering. After retiring, George read REAL ESTATE SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The republi- avid gardener, excellent cook and ■ SOTER, GEORGE many books and began writing his can reported that Athena Z. Kalita, devoted family man. He was a mem- WORCESTER, Mass. – The Worces- biography until he required the full- 76, passed away on her birthday, Fri- ber of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox ter Telegram & Gazette reported that time care of the Belair Manor of day, February 8, 2008. She is sur- Cathedral and Adelphotis Arahovi- George "Gige" Soter, Captain, Newington, CT. George leaves a de- vived by her husband Raymond Kali- ton Karyae Association. The funeral USMC-Retired, passed away peace- voted friend, Peter Dizes who often ta; her brother George Zondiros; her was held on February 10 at Holy fully, surrounded by his family on visited with George at Belair Manor sister Mary Z. Balise; her nephew Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Saturday, February 9, 2008 after a and conversed with George in both Thomas Zondiros (Barbara) and her Charlotte. Memorials donations to long illness battling Multiple Sclero- Greek and English. Many who knew daughters Alexa and Amanda; and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Foun- sis for over 55 years. He is survived George as a young man stayed in her nieces Sydney Balise, Sloane dation (600 East Boulevard, Char- by his adoring wife Ann (Chrisoulis) close contact with George through- Balise and Diane Wiedeke. As she lotte, NC 28203) or to Hospice and Soter; his children Philip (Deborah), out the years including his "Koum- used to proudly say, Athena was Palliative Care Charlotte Region Theodore and his daughter Angela; baro"-Costas "Charlie" Labovites; “born and raised in Torrington, CT,” (1420 East Seventh Street, Char- her granddaughter Jaime Faith Sot- UCONN Ambassador and Basketball where she attended the Torrington lotte, NC 28204). er; his brothers Constantine (Eliza- Coach Dee Rowe; Harvard room- Public School system. Upon her beth) and Arthur Soter (Irene); his mate Pierre Cros of Paris, France, moving to New Haven, Athena at- ■ PSILEKAS, ATHENA goddaughter and niece Joanne and his Brown roommate Rod Schef- tended the then New Haven Teach- WORCESTER, Mass. – The MetroW- Chrisoulis; his nephew David fer of New Hampshire, and numer- ers' College, and after deciding that est Daily News reported that Athena Chrisoulis; his great-nephew ous; childhood friends, university, teaching was not her forte, finally "Tena" (Exarhopoulos) Psilekas, 88, Nicholas Chrisoulis III; his great- church, community and business niece Nikole Zaley Chrisoulis; and colleagues. George was pre-de- subscribe entered the Yale School of Architec- died on Monday, February 11, 2008, PRINTED EDITION OF THE NATIONAL HERALD ture and Design. While at the School at UMass Memorial Hospital in several nieces and nephews. He was ceased by a sister Penelope of via the post-office: of Architecture, a renowned Archi- Worcester. She is survived by her born in Worcester, Mass. on Decem- Worcester, MA, a brother Andrew ❏1 Month for $9.95 ❏3 Months for $19.95 tect and Professor of Design suggest- daughters Ann Psilekas Boyaval and ber 6,1927, where he was raised Soter of Wethersfield, CT, a brother ❏6 Months for $29.95 ❏One Year fo $59.85 ed that perhaps “Architecture was Carol Psilekas Dragstedt; her brother during the depression and rose from Angelo Soter and sister-in-law Evey- not the field for a woman to enter.” James Exarhopoulos; her grandchil- the challenges of an inner-city to at- lyn (Pallas) of Worcester, MA., a VIA HOME DELIVERY (NY, NJ & CT): ❏1 Month for $12.95 ❏3 Months for $29.95 The gauntlet had been thrown. dren Dr. Carl A. Dragstedt (Alissa) tain both scholastic and athletic ex- niece Lisa Soter of Wethersfield, CT. ❏ ❏ Athena and her family moved to and Jennifer E. Dragstedt; her two cellence, a 3-Letter High School ath- and a nephew William Soter of 6 Months for $43.99 One Year for $80.00 Springfield, MA in the 1950's, where great-grandchildren Quinten and lete and scholar. George was the son Worcester, MA. George's family VIA HOME DELIVERY (NEW ENGLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, she immediately began apprenticing Alivia; her sisters-in-law Lamperni of the late Theodore & Eugenia wishes to thank the special staff of WASHINGTON D.C., VIRGINIA & MARYLAND) with Architect Elroy Webber. One of Psilekas and Jenny Exaros; and sev- (Panagopoulos) Soter (Sotiropou- Belair Manor and VITAS Hospice, for ❏1 Month for $15.95 ❏3 Months for $37.45 the first woman architects in the eral nieces, nephews and cousins. los) of Worcester, MA and Greece. the kind care that George received, ❏6 Months for $51.75 ❏One Year for $99.00 area Athena was then employed by She was the wife of Vassil L. Psilekas He attended Brown University on as well as, the support of all who ON LINE SUBSCRIPTION www.thenationalherald.com Munson & Mallis, Architects and En- for 61 years until his death in 2001. academic and athletic scholarships. knew George. The funeral was held ❏ gineers. There she functioned as a They were married in September He met and courted Ann in Hartford, on February 12 at St. George Greek NON SUBSCRIBERS: One Year for $45.95 ❏3 Months for $18.95 Project Architect during construc- 1940 in Sts. Anargyroi Greek Ortho- worked in retail sales and participat- Orthodox Cathedral in Hartford. ❏ ❏ tion of such projects as Easthampton dox Church of Marlborough. She ed in the local (Hartford) Greek Or- Burial with full military honors was SUBSCRIBERS: One Year for $34.95 3 Months for $14.95 High School, Chicopee High School was the sister of Plato Exaros who thodox community events, especial- at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Memorial and Ludlow High School. During her died in 2004 and John Exarhopou- ly playing basketball for the inter- donations to St. George Greek Or- NAME: ...... subsequent employment with Mc- los, who died in 1990. She was born faith league where George was a star thodox Cathedral (433 Fairfield Ave. ADDRESS: ...... Clintock and Craig, Architects and in Marlborough, daughter of the late player. George enlisted in the Ma- Hartford, CT 06114) or The Nation- CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... Engineers, she again served as a Pro- Alexander and Kaliope (Saitas) rine Corp and attended Officers Can- al Multiple Sclerosis Society (Con- TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... ject Architect on several buildings, Exarhopoulos, and was educated in didate School obtaining his initial necticut Chapter 659 Tower Ave. PLEASE SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO: most notably the recognizable YM- the Marlborough public school sys- Commission as a 2nd Lieutenant to Hartford, CT 06112). NAME: ...... CA Building on Chestnut Street, tem. She was employed at various serve his country during the Korean Springfield. So that she might spend Marlborough shoe factories for sev- Conflict, retiring as Captain in the re- ADDRESS: ...... CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... more time with her beloved mother, eral years, eventually becoming an serves. George received Service This is a service Athena opened her own practice of office manager at the former Sher- Stars and United Nations Medals to the community. TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... Architecture at home in 1972, con- man Footwear Co. of Marlborough. while serving in Korea. Upon return- Announcements of deaths Please specify method of payment centrating her efforts on the design She was a member of Sts. Anargyroi ing to the States, he married Ann may be telephoned to the I enclose a check/money order for $ ...... made payable to: of residences and small commercial Greek Orthodox Church of Marlbor- and they raised their family. George The National Herald, Inc., 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101 - 2614 Classified Department of ❏ ❏ ❏ projects. She held Professional Ar- ough and sang in the church choir continued his education at the Har- The National Herald at or please debit my Mastercard Visa American Express chitectural registrations by exam in for most of her life; she also served vard Business School obtaining an (718) 784-5255, CARD NUMBER: ...... Connecticut and Massachusetts, and as choir director for 10 years. She MBA in 1955. George began his ca- Monday through Friday, EXPIRATION DATE: ...... SIGNATURE:...... was a member of NCARB and the was one of the first women to be reer with the pioneers of computing 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST American Institute of Architects. elected to the church Parish Council, and worked with the inventors of the or e-mailed to: Athena was an active member of her serving as secretary and chairing digital age; (John Mauchly, Presper [email protected] favorite organization, the ZONTA fund-raising events. She was a life Eckert, and Admiral Grace Hopper). THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 GREECE CYPRUS 9 Archbishop Ieronymos’ Message to Greek Americans: “You Are Part of Us”

By Theodore Kalmoukos the responsibility that I assumed IERONYMOS: The Church has his funeral and burial in Athens. Special to the National Herald from that moment on all the issues honored me in electing me Arch- Christodoulos did some very of the Archdiocese of Athens and bishop of Athens and All Greece good things. We are charged to BOSTON – Newly elected Arch- the Church of Greece. and thus I have two missions: One continue his substantial work and bishop of Athens and All Greece, TNH: Was your election expect- is to minister the Archdiocese of to even advance it with the best Ieronymos, the former Metropoli- ed? Did you have any indication of Athens. I will continue the same possible way. tan of Thebes, in his first Archbish- the outcome of the election? ministry in the Archdiocese of TNH: When you first went to opric interview, which he chose to IERONYMOS: No, it was not ex- Athens as I did in my previous Me- Thebes as a new Metropolitan you grant to the National Herald on Fri- pected. I have to say that I did not tropolis of Thebes and Levadeia. transformed your Metropolitan day, February 8 expressed his love register my name as a candidate Secondly, I am also the Presi- Residence into a Nursing Home and admiration for the Greek this time that I wanted to become dent of the Holy Synod of the Hier- and you saw to an elderly ill American Community. Archbishop. It was a proposal that archy of Greece. Here things are woman who did not have any rela- He said, “we feel that we are one came from my fellow hierarchs and different, it is not important the tives at all; and then you estab- family, we love you very much,” that proposal was strengthened the will of the Prelate, which is a very lished a lot of institutions. Where while expressing the desire to visit last few days and finally the love of essential element of course, but the did you get the funds for all that? our community. “Yes, I want to very me fellow hierarchs gave that out- will of the majority. The Synodal TNH: Her name was Sousanio, much,” he said and he revealed that come to the election process. system must work correctly and the she was the one who opened my he has relatives in Salt Lake City, TNH: Tell us your thoughts on decisions should be synodical and eyes to minister the people as we Utah. Greek Americans. collective and thus it is premature should. Ieronymos, who was elected on IERONYMOS: You are part of to talk about programs of any kind. As far as the funds is concerned, Thursday, February 7, with 45 out us, we feel like we are one family The decisions should be made by there is a secret in the life of the of 74 votes in the election, said that and we love you very much. I the entire body of the Church re- Church that is when the faithful he will administer the Church syn- should tell you that I have a first garding the issues of the Church of love the Church and start an en- odically. Ieronymos also praised the cousin in the U.S. in Salt Lake City. Greece or of Orthodoxy in general. deavor with love, that endeavor ministry of his predecessor, Arch- My father’s brother resides there, TNH: What is Church Adminis- gets completed fast and without bishop Christodoulos, who died on he has five children, they are a very tration for you? proposed budgets and delays be- January 28 after a seven month fine family; we have the same last IERONYMOS: The position of cause it is God that blesses it. battle with cancer. name, Liapis. the prelate is never a position of ad- TNH: What message do you The complete interview with TNH: Is it included in your wish- ministration or power. Christ said send to the Greek Americans as the Archbishop Ieronymos follows: es to make a visit to the Greek those of you who want to be first, new Archbishop of Greece? THE NATIONAL HERALD: Your American community? you should be the ones to minister IERONYMOS: I want them to Beatitude, you have our heartfelt IERONYMOS: I want very much to people. Our aim is serve the peo- know that we love them and we wishes for a Godly-blessed and to do that, to see the Biotians who ple, and when we serve the people want them to love us. What unites Godly-honored Archpastorship. live in America and they are so the proper way, we serve God Him- us is the Ecumenical Patriarchate What are your thoughts, wishes prominent and hard working. I self. which is the Mother of all of us. and prayers when it was an- would love to visit you in America, TNH: What are your thoughts When you visit Greece, please nounced yesterday that you were but it will depend on the course of EUROKINISSI about your predecessor, the late come to see the Metropolis of elected Archbishop of Athens and my ministry here in Athens. Newly elected Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, Ieronymos, gave Archbishop Christodoulos? Thebes from which I am leaving af- All Greece? TNH: Where does your election his first interview as Archbishop to The National Herald. IERONYMOS: We were friends ter 40 years and to offer you hospi- ARCHBISHOP IERONYMOS: I find the Church of Greece? and classmates. With blessed mem- tality at the Archdiocese of Athens. was extremely touched because it IERONYMOS: The Church is al- as humans that come to minister negative atmosphere. ory Archbishop Christodoulos, left TNH: We thank you so very was really a big blessing from God ways in the going. Men are not the the Church. Christ is the same. He TNH: Which are some of the pri- a great heritage to the Church of much Your Beatitude and we pray and a huge trust that my brother hi- leaders of the Church. I am not the loves his people. Our behavior is orities and issues that you will deal Greece. A proof of that heritage that you please God and men with erarchs showed to me. I thought of leader of the Church, Christ is. We the one that creates a positive or with in the immediate future? was the huge crowds that attended your new ministry. Dora Meets with Rice, Other Top Officials about FYROM and Balkans

Continued from page 1 “Kosovo today faces a series of “What’s in a name, you may ask? complexities and qualms. It is one A great deal, I assure you. Geo- Deputy Secretary of Defense Gor- of Europe’s poorest regions. More graphically, Macedonia is a wider don England, who hosted a recep- than half of its inhabitants live in region, more than 50 percent of tion in her honor at the Pentagon deprivation. Over 50 percent of its which belongs to Greece. Today, afterwards. population is under 30 years of age, there are more than 2.5 million During the CSIS forum, which while unemployment is one of Eu- Greeks who consider themselves was attended by more than 250 rope’s highest. Moreover, it is a Macedonians – you may have met people – to include former NSA landlocked area with few competi- some of these proud Macedonians Brent Scowcroft (under President tive advantages and a long history who live right here in the United George H.W. Bush) and CSIS Presi- of economic mismanagement. Add States – two and a half million dent & CEO John J. Hamre, among to this the tension between the re- Greek Macedonians who feel that others – Ms. Bakoyanni made a gion’s ethnic Albanians and remain- the very core of their identity is un- compelling case for the internation- ing Serbs, Kosovo is volatile, to say der siege. Why? Because of Skopje’s al community’s need to focus on the least,” she said. nationalistic, anachronistic policy Southeast Europe, in spite of to- “I understand there is a sense of of attempting to monopolize Mace- day’s over-arching concerns with urgency over Kosovo’s final status. donian identity,” she said. the Muslim world. Defining Kosovo’s future status is a “Our neighbors use the language “Being closer to home, this is a very complicated and fragile task. of the 19th Century, and they hope region of utmost concern for There is no easy solution, no easy to be understood in the 21st. This is Greece. But I assure you, it is much way out. Many view independence not a question of political psycholo- more than that. Southeastern Eu- as a magic wand of sorts which, gy or mass sentiment. It is an issue rope today remains a fragile post- once waved, will produce jobs, run- of regional stability,” she added. conflict zone. There is always the ning water, electricity, education, “Greece has repeatedly demon- picture drawn up by a recent New health and prosperity. But let’s be strated its goodwill and expressed York Times opinion column: ‘The realistic: We all know that indepen- its eagerness to support FYROM Balkans,’ and I quote, ‘have a dis- dence is no panacea,” she said. both politically and economically. mal way of living up to their stereo- “Make no mistake, ladies and As the largest foreign investor and type as a region of ancient, inter- gentlemen: at the heart of the Euro- one of the biggest trade partners in twined and irreconcilable feuds.’ pean continent, Kosovo’s stability FYROM, we have spared no effort Since 1989, the region has wit- concerns us all. Europe has a cen- in responding to the country’s quest nessed extraordinary change – both tral role to play, both now and in for economic growth and stability. positive and negative – yet despite EUROKINISSI the future, and it is imperative that Under U.N. auspices, Greece has all they have endured, the peoples Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyanni, right, seen here with Maltese Premier Lawrence Gonzi and Aus- the E.U. speak in a single voice. Any come to the table with a clear objec- of the Balkans are now building the trian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik, was in Malta before she flew to Washington to meet with Secretary solution reached must be in line tive: a long-overdue, mutually ac- springboard from which to jump to- of State Condoleeza Rice and other top U.S. officials this past week. with E.U. values. This provides the ceptable, composite solution which wards their dreams of a better life,” necessary safeguards for the re- includes the geographic term Mace- she said. struggling with poverty to prosper- must also honor our promises. ment, inflation and corruption – all gion’s stability. Kosovo must be de- donia,” she pointed out. “We have “It is disquietingly clear, howev- ous, democratic societies. Whatever internal turmoil we may significant barriers to foreign invest- mocratic, multi-ethnic and multi- engaged in this process construc- er, that peace in the region is far “Coupled with NATO enlarge- be facing in the Union or in the Al- ment,” Ms. Bakoyanni said. cultural. It must display tolerance tively and with an open mind. We from guaranteed. Stability and eco- ment, the E.U. prospect is an impor- liance, we must ensure that our “For Greece, economic develop- and ensure that the rights of all its have proven to be considerably nomic development are far from tant driving force for these coun- credibility remains unchallenged. ment is an essential tool for politi- inhabitants are protected, regard- flexible in our quest for a win-win sustained. Ethnic tension, weak tries: It provides them with the im- This means sticking to our basic cal stability. This explains our dy- less of religion and ethnic origin. solution. But our friends in Skopje rule of law, organized crime, petus to make the necessary change principle that full compliance namic presence in the region. We For a solution to be viable, it must must also cover some ground. They porous borders, and sluggish eco- and reform. The road to NATO and means full membership. This was are at the forefront in terms of in- foster stability and security,” she have not done so, thus far. They nomic performance continue to the E.U. fosters peace; breeds secu- tangibly demonstrated by Romania vestment, with over $20 billion in- said. tend to define compromise rather haunt considerable areas of the rity; and provides space for viable and Bulgaria, which joined NATO vested. More than 3,500 Greek en- And no discussion on the Balka- elliptically as a state in which every- wider Balkans. Simply put, to com- and sustainable development,” she in 2004 and the European Union in terprises are active in the region. An ns would be complete without re- one agrees with them, but they do plete the region’s transformation, said, citing the growing European 2007. These were historic events estimated 200,000 new jobs have ferring to Serbia, Ms. Bakoyanni not budge an inch. Skopje has but we still have a long way to go. One orientation of Slovenia, Croatia, Al- with profound regional signifi- been created. Greece is the primary added. one route to NATO and the Euro- lesson we have learned: Only inte- bania, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herze- cance; events that carried with foreign investor in Albania, Former “No Balkan equilibrium can ig- pean Union: respect for the princi- grated strategies can carry the day. govina and Turkey. them hope and optimism for the Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, nore Serbia, one of the region’s key ple of good-neighborly relations, A comprehensive approach is es- Aspiring E.U. entrants must Balkans, but which also sent a clear and Serbia. We are the second states. It is perhaps less known that and this includes a mutually accept- sential,” she added. adopt and abide by E.U. standards, message: Countries that meet re- largest foreign investor in Romania, Serbia’s structural reform progress able solution. Alliances and part- Such strategies and such an ap- she said, but it’s a two way street: quirements must and should join and third in Bulgaria,” she added. has been impressive, making it nerships can only be fostered be- proach require “smart power,” Ms. The E.U. must also honor its com- the Euro-Atlantic family,” she stat- KOSOVO even more unfortunate that E.U.- tween countries if there is mutual Bakoyanni explained, and smart mitments. ed, emphasizing the Hellenic Re- Serious political issues nonethe- Serbian relations have been at a trust and good neighborly rela- power requires more than intelli- “Turkey is well down the long public’s leadership role and unwa- less remain unsolved, she said, cit- stalemate for so long. This particu- tions.” gence. It also requires open-mind- and arduous path toward reform. vering commitment to the Balkans. ing Kosovo. lar unraveling of E.U.-Serbian rela- After her address, Ms. Bakoyan- edness and compassion. 2008 provides a window of oppor- “In the framework of multilateral “It is clear that all our labors will tions is a setback for both Serbia ni fielded 16 questions from various “Smart power is much more tunity for the Cyprus problem. initiatives, as well as on a bilateral be futile if we fail to establish politi- and the region as a whole. We envi- members of the press, according to than just brains, if you will pardon Should Turkey be ready to comply level, Greece continues to con- cal stability in the region. For the in- sion Serbia as an integral part of a source in the Greek Foreign Min- the pun. Much of our success also with the European acquis commu- tribute decisively to the implemen- ternational press, as of late, the Southeastern Europe. It has a great istry. depends on the heart; on the force nautaire, the E.U. must in turn hon- tation of necessary reforms. As the Balkans have been synonymous deal to offer the E.U., and likewise, The same source told the Na- of our values. These common prin- or its commitments and grant full region’s oldest NATO and E.U. mem- with Kosovo. Exponents of a more the E.U. has a great deal to give in tional Herald that Ms. Bakoyanni’s ciples include respect for democra- member status. Our neighbor’s E.U. ber, Greece feels a heightened sense traditional hard-power approach return. Serbia can no longer be latest visit to Washington was con- cy, human rights, free trade, free membership will, for Greece, be a of responsibility for our neighbor- will be happy to hear that of the to- haunted by its past. It must move structive, adding that it was neces- enterprise and tolerance of cultur- moment of great satisfaction. It will hood; an obligation to be construc- tal 17,000 NATO-led troops de- forward in order to reach its full po- sary for Greece to remind the Unit- al, linguistic and religious diversi- mean that years of negotiations and tive, supportive and practical. In so- ployed in the Western Balkans to- tential,” she said, stressing that NA- ed States about Greek positions on ty,” she said, stressing the critical of laborious efforts have borne cio-economic terms, a snapshot of day, 16,000 are stationed in Koso- TO enlargement is also instrumen- Balkans issues because American role NATO and the E.U. play in fruit,” she said. the region often reveals poverty, in- vo, including a significant Greek tal to the region’s future progress. policies exert a strong influence on transforming developing countries “Abiding by our set of values, we equality, displacement, unemploy- commitment,” she said. FYROM AND NATO the region. “In principle, Greece whole- It’s important to carry a public heartedly supports NATO’s enlarge- message, which goes along with the ment. We believe that NATO en- meetings being held, the source SPORTS largement can contribute signifi- said, adding that Greece believes cantly to enhanced stability and se- that a mutually acceptable solution curity for all countries in the Euro- to the name dispute with FYROM Atlantic area. Enlargement will re- will foster greater stability in the inforce the overall tendency toward Balkans, and help FYROM inte- Olympiakos Keeps Up Pressure on First Place PAO closer integration and cooperation grate. in Europe; strengthen the Alliance’s FYROM has become more in- ATHENS – Darko Kovacevic scored ner, was improper because he had following a second consecutive de- from Argentinean Luciano Galletti ability to contribute to European transigent since the Bush Adminis- twice to help visiting Olympiakos already represented two other feat, this time a 1-0 loss at Larissa. in the 53rd. Lionel Nunez rounded and international security; and tration decided to recognize it as beat Panionios 4-0 in the Greek Su- clubs this season. A date for the re- Panathinaikos leads the stand- off the scoring in the 82nd. boost the trans-Atlantic partner- the “Republic of Macedonia,” the per League yesterday, a result match has not yet been set. ings with 46 points following 20 Struggling this season, Thessa- ship. Croatia and Albania, I am hap- source said, but Greece’s small which keeps the defending champi- On Saturday, an improved sec- rounds of play, or exactly two- loniki club PAOK, currently mid- py to say, have made considerable northern neighbor must learn to be on just two points behind front- ond-half display from Panathi- thirds of the way through the sea- table, registered a badly needed headway in the past few years,” she part of a community and interact runner Panathinaikos with a game naikos earned the league leader a son. Olympiakos is on 44 points win, 3-0, over crosstown rival Aris, said, roundly taking exception to with all other players. in hand. 1-0 home win over battling Veria. with a game less. AEK lies third on which is equal fourth, 10 points be- FYROM’s case. The source also noted that, Late on Friday night, Greek soc- The home side found it difficult 42 points. hind AEK. “It saddens me, however, that I while the U.S. Government current- cer’s disciplinary committee or- to break down Veria’s resistance Kovacevic gave Olympiakos the Also yesterday, it was: Xanthi 4, can not say the same for our neigh- ly recognizes FYROM as “Macedo- dered a rematch between but found a way through when lead in the fifth minute after a mix- Levadiakos 1; Ergotelis 2, Apollon bor, the Former Yugoslav Republic nia,” America also stipulated that it Olympiakos and lowly Apollon Austria captain Andreas Ivanschitz up in the Panionios defense. Cap- 2; and Asteras 1, OFI 1. In the of Macedonia. As many of you are would recognize the name which Kalamaria, which beat the Piraeus scored the winner in the 71st tain Predrag Djordjevic converted a round’s other game, on Saturday, aware, for over 15 years, our two emerges from the U.N. process. team in a shock victory last week- minute with a curled free kick from penalty to make it 2-0 in the 26th Iraklis and visiting Atromitos drew countries have been involved in Matthew Nimetz, the U.N.’s spe- end. Olympiakos had filed an ap- outside the area. after he was fouled in the area by 1-1. U.N.-sponsored negotiations re- cial envoy handling the dispute, is peal arguing that the Thessaloniki AEK, which had held top spot in Sekou Berthe, who was shown a garding FYROM’s name. Greece due in Athens at the end of this team’s selection of a recent signing, the standings for the season’s red card. Kovacevic stretched the Kathimerini published the above has real concerns over the issue,” month to announce his final pro- Austrian international Roman Wall- greater part, slipped to third place lead to 3-0 after meeting a cross on February 11. she said. posals for the thorny issue. 10 EDITORIALS LETTERS THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008

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 A Husband’s Fight for His Life and his voice permanently, he would I felt helpless! tember. Since then my husband’s to the Greek American community of the United States of America. His Wife’sUnconditional Love never come home and he would be After extraordinary efforts and condition was improving and get- dependent on a ventilator for the through the assistance of a neigh- ting worse, so finally he passed Publisher-Editor Antonis H. Diamataris My husband has a chronic dis- rest of his life. Should his heart bor who happened to be a physi- away on December 17, 2007 from Assistant to Publisher, Advertising Veta H. Diamataris Papadopoulos ease (myasthenia gravis) and, I am stop they would put so much pres- cian, I was able to find a doctor an infection that spread through- Managing Editor Evan C. Lambrou informed, antibiotics caused his sure on him that his ribs would who performed the necessary out his body. In the death certifi- Assistant Managing Editor Mark Frangos colon to perforate; the myasthenia break. He was too old to withstand surgery upon my husband. Cur- cate it states that his colon got per- gravis kicked in and caused more the operation. “ rently, my husband has been re- forated from getting the wrong an- Production Manager Chrysoula Karametros problems. For nearly seven weeks, So went the information that I leased from intensive care and is tibiotics. Webmaster Alexandros Tsoukias my husband was in intensive care. was expected to respond to. recovering at a rehabilitation hos- Anna Tsakarissianos The National Herald (USPS 016864) is published weekly by On July 8, 2007 a group of his All the while, I communicated pital. Boston, MA The National Herald Inc. at 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 doctors in Intensive Care gathered with my husband by talking to him Probably the worst day of my Tel: (718)784-5255, Fax: (718)472-0510, around his bed and suggested to and reading his responses. My hus- life was Monday July the 30, 2007, e-mail: [email protected] me and my husband that the only band was in pain, he was greatly when I was told that no doctor was Democritou 1 and Academias Sts, Athens, 10671, Greece solution was to perform a tra- besieged by medical complications, willing to operate. The greatest day Tel: 011.30.210.3614.598, Fax: 011.30.210.3643.776, e-mail: [email protected] cheostomy that would enable him but neither he nor I were ready to of my life was when the operation TO OUR READERS to become less dependent on a ven- accept his death. In my view, it was took place on Wed. August 1, 2007, Subscriptions by mail: 1 year $59.85, 6 months $29.95, 3 months $19.95, 1 month $9.95 tilator. We agreed. Time proceed- my husband's age and the expecta- not only because the operation has The National Herald welcomes Home delivery NY, NJ, CT: 1 year $80.00, 6 months $43.99, 3 months $29.99, 1 month $12.95 ed and nothing was done, and we tion that such old people would die extended the life of my husband, letters from its readers intended Home delivery New England States, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland: for publication. They should in- 1 year $99.00, 6 months $51.75, 3 months $37.45, 1 month $15.95 were informed that they were try- that helped his medical team more but that my husband's determina- On line subscription: Subscribers to the print edition: 1 year $34.95, 6 months $23.95, 3 months ing to find an experienced surgeon. readily accept his death. But my tion to prevail occurred. It remains clude the writer’s name, address, $14.95; Non subscribers: 1 year $45.95, 6 months $29.95, 3 months $18.95 Soon, pneumonia and other in- husband, whose family members his dignity that I celebrate. and telephone number and be fections further complicated my have lived beyond 100 years, was My husband remained alive and addressed to: The Editor, The Na- Periodical postage paid at L.I.C., N.Y. and additional mailing offices. husband's condition. not being evaluated pursuant to the continued to battle for his life. tional Herald, 37-10 30th Street, Now, a change set in regarding extraordinary history of his genes Without one persistent supporter of Postmaster send change of address to: Long Island City, NY 11101. THE NATIONAL HERALD, 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 his doctor's prognosis. It was sug- or his inclination to survive. my efforts to keep my husband gested that his condition was all I still hear the voice of the doc- alive—an expert in Myasthenia Letters can also be faxed to (718) but hopeless and rather than cause tors suggesting to me that I pre- Gravis in another state--neither I 472-0510 or e-mailed to greater suffering, it would be wise serve his dignity by allowing his life nor my husband could have en- english.edition@thenationalher- to allow him to die. When I object- to end. I still sense the burden dured. I often continue to feel ald.com. We reserve the right to At a boiling point ed, the doctors stated their objec- placed upon me to admit to their helpless. My husband’s illness and edit letters for publication and re- tion to further surgery and stated reality and their expertise and, ap- the bureaucracy of the medical es- gret that we are unable to ac- Τhe battle for the name of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia that they would not participate in parently, my obstinacy. tablishment have made me appre- knowledge or return those left moved to Washington this past week. And rightly so, for that is the capital any surgery. In addition, they The doctors and the staff made ciate, however, how important a unpublished. holding the keys to the solution for this festering problem. warned me that,”he would die on it very obvious that I was wrong in single ally can be. The name dispute arose back in September of 1991, after the breakup the operating table, he would lose opposing their advice. This letter was written in Sep- of the socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, when its southernmost province declared independence from Yugoslavia and renamed itself “Re- public of Macedonia.” Greece strongly objected to the new country’s choice of name, of COMMENTARY course, because Greece’s northern province has been known as Macedonia since ancient times. The new country went as far as to adopt a flag with the Sun of Vergina, and to print currency with the White Tower of Salonica (Thessaloniki) on it. The message was clear. They had their eyes fixed on Greek Macedonia, One Student Holds the Hellenic Torch High with Pride too. Hundreds of thousands took to the streets in Greece, but also hit the By Helen Dumas gent, self-disciplined, polite, kind, streets of New York, Chicago, Boston, Melbourne and elsewhere. Special to the National Herald considerate, and loving. He always Greece signed an “Interim Accord” with Skopje (Skopia) on September loves to help the younger students 13, 1995. According to that agreement, FYROM had to change its flag and “Can I help you decorate the with their homework, and encour- other irredentist symbols, while the United Nations would refer to the puppet stage?” Levonti Ohanisian age his peers to forever pursue the country by its temporary name. A special envoy was assigned to mediate asked me the moment he walked study of the Greek language. He negations. into his classroom, at the age of 3. finds a way to promote new classes Since then, a dozen or so meetings between representatives of Greece Bright, curious, alert, determined for young and old, to initiate ways and FYROM have taken place, leading to nowhere. The other side knows to learn, and eyes focused on the of enriching the school's curricu- that time is working in its favor. target – he was always following lum with music, theater arts, con- Skopje got its biggest boost, however, and became arrogant and uncoop- the teacher, asking for extra things versation workshop, storytelling, erative when the Bush Administration recognized them as the “Republic of to do. Indeed for the last 12 years, and above all to motivate the ones Macedonia,” just two days after President Bush was re-elected in 2004. Levonti has been learning the who “do not know what treasure The issue has now reached a boiling point. FYROM, along with a few Greek language at St. Sophia we have from our forefathers, and other countries in the region, wants to join NATO. Its application will be Cathedral in Los Angeles. But our responsibility to pass it on to discussed at the NATO Summit in Budapest this April. Under what name Greek is not the only language Lev- forthcoming generations.” will it be admitted? onti now knows. He is fluent in Levonti is a top student in every- As a longstanding member of NATO (since 1952), Greece has the right English, Greek, Armenian, Spanish thing that is Greek – from language of veto, as do all member states. And Greece has made it clear, in public and French - and can communicate to Greek dance, from Greek history statements as well as in private deliberations, that it will not allow FYROM in German and Chinese. He is the to Greek art, from Greek literature to be admitted as the “Republic of Macedonia,” stressing that this is the kindest and most loving child I to Greek theater, from Greek poetry time to carry out the provisions of the Interim Accord and settle on a mu- have ever taught. Levonti is a born to Greek mythology - and from the tually acceptable solution. leader, and super successful in Greek Orthodox altar to the struc- Greece has even taken a bold, though internally unpopular, step to ac- every aspect of his life. Asked what ture, lyrics, and chanting the divine cept the word “Macedonia” as part of its final name. But Skopje doesn’t he wants to become when he grows liturgy. He was 3 going to 33 when give in an inch. On the contrary, statements by FYROM’s president and for- up, Levonti responded with a spe- he came to us. He has grown and eign minister have been anything but constructive. And it’s most telling cial pride in his voice: “I will be- matured in the last 12 years; now that they are hiding behind Washington’s skirts because this Administra- come a doctor - in fact, a plastic sur- he is 15, and he is our official Hel- tion wishes to see them – all two million of them – become part of NATO. geon!” lenic Academy's pianist (he plays 4 Ultimately, only Washington has enough influence to broker an agree- I asked Levonti to bring me a musical instruments). ment between the two sides. Nobody else. picture from an event that changed To students like Levonti That’s why Dora Bakoyanni, Greece’s dynamic foreign minister, went to his life. The next day he brought Ohanisian, our Church and mother- Washington this week in a last-ditch effort to abort another mistake on the the picture in this article to school – Levonti Ohanisian (left) and his teacher Helen Dumas. Young Lev- land Hellas owes a deep gratitude part of the Bush Administration; to avoid a confrontation within NATO; which goes back to 2004, the year onti has made his school and community very proud of him for holding the torch high. By ex- and to help resolve the issue, and avoid creating a bigger problem. of the Olympic Games. He was ample, Levonti is teaching children And here’s where the Greek American community comes in: Through- wearing the medal bestowed to sents in exchange for that short trip pact on fellow students was simply and adults the importance of pre- out its history, this community has acted as a bridge between the United him for winning first place in the to Greece. Remember, he was only magical. serving and perpetuating our pre- States and Greece. This community that has raised its voice not on only be- Western United States speech con- 11 then. It is very seldom that any school cious Hellenic Heritage. half of America and Greece, but also on behalf of international justice and test, under the title “What the He did go to Greece and worked is lucky to have a student like Lev- Levonti, our Church, our Hel- world peace. Olympic Games Mean to Me.” He at the Olympic Games – indeed a onti. But St. Sophia Cathedral's lenic Academy, and the entire That’s why we protested so vigorously when the Turks invaded Cyprus asked his parents to take him to dream come true. Returning to Los Hellenic Academy is even more for- Greek world of DIASPORA, join in 1974 – because Americans of Greek heritage care about the role Ameri- Greece, to serve as a volunteer in Angeles, he shared his experiences tunate to have Levonti as a student your parents in saying: “We are ca plays in the world; because the Greek American community could not the Olympic Games that summer. with thousands of students from leader for 12 years so far. Levonti proud of you. Keep up the good stand by idly watching the Greeks of Cyprus being ruthlessly killed and Levonti was willing to trade 5 years many Greek language schools Ohanisian is a gifted young stu- work, and may God bless your en- turned into refugees. of birthday celebrations and pre- across the United States. The im- dent: handsome, friendly, intelli- deavors.” That’s why our community will not stand by idly and allow the history and culture of Greece to be stolen by anyone; that’s why we will not allow some misguided politicians and technocrats to humiliate Greece and Hel- lenes throughout the world just to please some obstinate, reborn FYROM PRESS CLIPPING democrats who Washington currently seems to value more than a faithful longtime friend and ally, Greece. And that’s why this community is mobilizing in a way not seen since 1974 to do what’s right for both Greece and the U.S. We urge all of you to contact President Bush and Secretary of State Curious George Economou Does Shipping His Own Way Rice, and tell them that you are deeply concerned about this issue; that they should stop mistreating Greece; and that they should use their influ- By Nathan Vardi outfit. Peter Georgiopoulos, chair- ment. His dad owned a small pa- er in OceanFreight, which raised ence to help forge a bilateral, rather than unilateral, solution. Forbes man of rival Genco Shipping & per-products firm, but Economou $218 million when it went public There comes a moment, a period of time in a people’s history, which Trading, blasted Economou in pub- was drawn to the sea. He toiled at on the Nasdaq last year. Cardiff marks the life and legacy of that people. This is that kind of moment, that DryShips is a public company. lic recently, saying shippers like shipping outfits in New York before helped OceanFreight pick up its kind of period for Greece and the Hellenic world. Let’s all pitch in to make But the way George Economou Economou "play games with their returning to Greece, buying his first first dry-bulk vessels, helps manage a difference. Let’s us all move to protect what is ours. runs the place, you'd hardly know shareholders' money." For his part ship in 1986 and later setting up that fleet and shares office space it. Economou says his 15-year friend- Cardiff. with OceanFreight. Sitting in the library bar of Man- ship with Georgiopoulos is over. Economou returned to New A rocky maiden voyage. Ocean- hattan's Regency Hotel, Greek ship- "Maybe it reflects how he feels York in 1998 to raise $175 million Freight had to clarify its reporting Finally, some action ping billionaire George Economou about himself and not how he feels in junk bonds to expand his fleet in October, announcing third-quar- throws back a salted nut before about me," Economou opines be- with a company called Alpha Ship- ter earnings per share were really 7 We have taken the Archdiocese to task for not giving proper and timely confronting the shareholder com- fore swatting the thought away. ping. A year after raising the cash, cents as opposed to the 11 cents it accounting of the money raised by the community to help fire victims in plaints that have been swirling "Peter doesn't have feelings; he is Alpha failed to make an interest had advertised a day earlier. In De- Greece, and for not acting promptly in that regard. around him. "Listen, guy," he says too self-centered." payment and defaulted on the cember Antonios fired his chief ex- We’re glad to see the Archdiocese has finally taken some action. as if conducting a fractious confer- But Economou, who owns 34% bonds, which largely ended up with ecutive, who says he intends to sue According to an Archdiocese press release, $3,946,989 was raised, in- ence call. "If you don't like it, you of DryShips, has learned he can do Credit Suisse. for wrongful termination. Then cluding $28,241 in interest. The Greek Fire Relief Fund gave $252,241 to don't have to be here. Sell the nearly anything he wants in the In 2005 Economou tapped Wall OceanFreight's chief financial offi- International Orthodox Christian Charities for a program called “Liveli- stock." capital markets as long as it's fully Street again, taking DryShips pub- cer quit; Antonios took over both hood Recovery Project,” and they have now decided to give IOCC another Many investors have taken this disclosed. "Once you have full dis- lic and raising $250 million. Good the executive roles. Within days of $1,652,998 to purchase more animal feed. advice, recently slashing $2 billion closure, if you don't like it, don't in- timing. The company rose on the the fuss OceanFreight announced it While originally saying that Andrew Natsios, former director of the U.S. from Economou's DryShips, which vest," he says. He does, however, growth in global trade, particularly was buying the first of two tankers Agency for International Development, was ready to visit Greece and as- owns 38 dry bulk carriers (from sometimes seem to be disdainful of iron ore demand from China, privately owned by Economou for sess the problem directly, the Archdiocese finally sent Bishop Andonios of 46,000 deadweight tons to his shareholders. "Who are my in- which pushed charter rates higher. $112 million. Antonios says the Phasiane, the Fund’s central coordinator, at the end of last month. 170,000) that shuttle iron ore, vestors? Computer models, hedge The price to charter one of Dry- first tanker has already been char- Upon his return, Andonios, who initially told us there was no need for coal, fertilizers and grain around funds and some institutions that go Ships' bigger vessels jumped from tered to ExxonMobil for three years him to go in the first place, provided his report to the committee in charge the globe. But Economou is com- in and make $10 and get out." $30,000 a day in January 2006 to thanks to Cardiff's efforts and that of the Fund, which convened on February 6. fortable in choppy waters. Dry- So much for consensus. Dry- $170,000 in November 2007, Economou gave him a "break" on “Our assistance gives farmers a twofold answer: emergency supplies of Ships charters its vessels in the Ships has been operating with two though prices have weakened late- price with the second tanker. feed to sustain their livestock through the winter, and seed to replant their volatile spot market, and, despite employees (Economou, 54, and his ly in the global economic slow- Conflict of interest? Antonios in- lands for a long-term solution,” Archbishop Demetrios said. the recent dip, the stock has internal auditor) since his chief fi- down. Meantime DryShips bor- sists the decision to buy the tankers It’s interesting to see that IOCC has been the primary recipient of the quadrupled in the past year to $74. nancial officer quit in May, the sec- rowed $819 million, at 5.98% to was made by OceanFreight's direc- funds, so far. That’s fine, but we also wish the money had been spent on With his blond hair and perfect ond to split in three years. The com- 7.33% interest rates, to add ships. tors, of whom there are five, includ- something more permanent than animal feed – a school or a hospital or a English, Economou has led a flotilla pany's fleet is managed by Cardiff, DryShips' net profit rose 749% to ing Antonios' dad. "Everything was home for the elderly bearing the name of the Greek American community. of Greek shipowners to the U.S. 70% owned by Economou, which $177 million in nine months. A done at arm's length; they are not But there still seems to be enough money left for that. capital markets. He listed DryShips gets more than $7 million a year for family business, this. Economou's going to approve a transaction that on the Nasdaq in 2005. Since then its troubles. Cardiff also manages two former wives own a total 15% is overpriced," Antonios says. 12 mostly Greek dry-bulk shipping Economou's private fleet of 13 dry of DryShips. Chryssoula Kandy- OceanFreight's stock recently trad- firms have followed to New York bulkers and 21 oil tankers. How do lidis, his sister, holds 30% of Cardiff ed at its offering price, but Natasha U.N. sick of Cyprus? exchanges as the sector raised $4 investors know that when a char- Marine. With proceeds from its ini- Boyden, a Cantor Fitzgerald ana- billion, reports Dealogic. Not that tering deal comes up Cardiff won't tial offering, DryShips bought six lyst, recommends buying both Dry- Our worst fears may have been realized. The United Nations said at the they've thanked him for helping to give preferential treatment to ves- ships that had recently been picked Ships and OceanFreight. Boyden end of last week it will not risk another failed initiative to reunify war-di- pave the way to Wall Street. sels owned wholly by Economou? up by Kandylidis. Five were sold at shrugs at all the interfamily deal- vided Cyprus, though it would support a homegrown bid. On the contrary, some shippers They can read DryShips' securities cost, but DryShips paid his sister a ings. "They have been doing busi- “In fact, it has been clear for some time now that, rather than launching and investors have pilloried filings, Economou says. $3 million fee. Economou says she ness like this for hundreds of a new initiative, the U.N. will support good faith efforts on the part of both Economou for tarring the entire in- Born in Athens, Economou first made very little money on the deal years," Boyden says. "They are not sides to restart talks and work for a solution,” said Michael Moller, the dustry by signing controversial came to America to attend MIT, and bore great risk. going to stop doing it just because U.N. Secretary General’s special representative to Cyprus. deals, often involving family mem- where he received two masters of Kandylidis' son, Antonios they are public." Those remarks have dampened broad anticipation of a U.N.-led re- bers, that blur the lines between science, one in naval architecture Kandylidis, is also in this cozy net- sumption of reunification talks this year, and place the situation closer to DryShips and his privately held and marine engineering, another in work. The 30-year-old Antonios is Forbes published the above on partition. Cardiff Marine, a ship management shipping and shipbuilding manage- the founder and largest sharehold- February 12. THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 VIEWPOINTS 11 LETTER FROM ATHENS The U.S. Needs to Rethink Its Policy on Kosovo

At last some influential Ameri- significant. It means ter Vojislav Kostunica be encouraged to seek their inde- Cassavettes Was a Man cans begin to see that the headlong that even in the camp – a friend of the West pendence. drive of the Bush Administration to of the neo-cons some in years past –de- Turkey that has close to twenty recognize the independence of people begin to the see nounced the proposal million Kurds on its soil is also wor- Under His Own Influence Kosovo is not only a foolish but also the light. as an E.U. attempt to ried but so far has remained silent a dangerous idea. Writing in the In the meantime, muffle the impact of because the Albanian Kosovars are The next time some fellow Greek-American Washington Times, former Secre- the White House and E.U. actions in Kosovo. Muslims. Yet, if Kosovo declares in- trendy avant-garde Telly Savalas, and was tary of State Lawrence Eagleburger, the leaders of the Eu- In spite of this Ser- dependence and Washington rush- film maker says he’s nominated for an Acad- former Assistant Defense Secretary ropean Union continue bian reaction, the E. U. es to recognize the new state –as shocking Hollywood emy Award for best Peter Rodman, and former U.N. their support to Koso- leaders continue their the plan is now –the Kurds of and tries to show he’s supporting actor for his Ambassador John Bolton pointed vo’s independence. course. They make Turkey may see this as a signal to oh-so-hipper-than - chilling performance as out that to tear apart the territory This is even more diffi- plans to send 1,600 intensify their own struggle for in- thou and thinks he in- an insubordinate, con- of a member of the United Nations cult to understand or by DR. D.G. NATO troops to Koso- dependence. On the other side of vented the art of mak- demned soldier. is a dangerous precedent and a vio- justify now, after the KOUSOULAS vo after the declara- the coin, the Turk Cypriots may put ing movies that buck Still, it’s too bad lation of International Law. re- election of Serbian tion of independence on the shelf the so called bi zonal, the mainstream men- Cassavettes is more re- For the past two months, this President Boris Tadic. Special to to keep law and order, bi-communal federation model and tality, invite him to see membered for those column had denounced the Ameri- He is in favor of Ser- The National Herald at a time when NATO ask the E.U. to accept them as a “A Woman Under the roles than the films he can policy of encouraging the Al- bian cooperation with remains short of separate state. Influence,” or “Hus- by ANDY made himself because banian Kosovars to declare their in- the West and wants Serbia to be- troops in Afghanistan where a What is mind-boggling is that bands,” just a couple DABILIS that’s where you see dependence from Serbia. Kosovo come a member of the European spring offensive by a resurgent Tal- the American policy makers cannot of the films that John the gritty introspection has been an integral part of Serbia Union. His opponent, Tomislav iban is expected. see that the solution to this vexing Cassavettes made Special to that perhaps Greeks since 1913 when the Ottoman Em- Nicolic is a rabid nationalist, a for- It is not that all members of the entanglement is fairly easy. when he was a real pi- The National Herald best know lies deep in pire was thrown out of the Balkans. mer associate of Milosevic. Had European Union are in favor of Kosovo could remain legally a oneer in independent the human heart and It has been an integral part of Ser- Nicolic been elected, the Serbian Kosovo independence. Hungary, part of Serbia. The area of Kosovo films 40 years ago. Pretty good for soul. Cassavettes always had that bia as much as Epiros, Macedonia reaction to a declaration of Kosovo Romania, Cyprus, Spain and could be divided. A small region in a guy born in New York City in look on his face that he knew better or Western Thrace have been part independence might have been Greece are openly against it. Others the northeast where most of the 1929 to Greek immigrant parents than you what was going on, but of Greece, liberated at the same very ugly indeed. But Tadic won in have reservations. Moreover, this Christian Serbs live and where the from Larissa, who spent his early kept it hidden behind an-always time during the Balkan Wars almost the second round by only 3.7 per- detachment of Serbian territory monasteries and the other sacred years in Greece before his family re- lurking but never-surfacing sardon- a hundred years ago. cent. In 2004, Tadic had won by cannot become legal without a de- places of Serbian history are locat- turned to the United States, first to ic smile that promised to reveal the Kosovo is a good illustration of nine percentage points, a clear in- cision of the U.N. Security Council. ed could become part of Serbia Boston, seven years later, their son answer for you, a hint of menace mismanaged immigration. Over dication that a lot of Serbian people In the Security Council, Russia can proper. The rest of the area where speaking no English. It didn’t both- and a messianic glint. It even got to the decades thousands of Albani- are turning against the West be- veto any decision. Last week, the Albanian Muslims live could be er him. “Language is just a bunch of Ronald Reagan, who took a Cas- ans from next door Albania filtered cause of Kosovo. Sergei Ivanov, First Deputy Prime given broad autonomy within the symbols. People’s emotions are fun- savettes punch to the face in the into this Serbian province so that The leaders of the European Minister of Russia, warned that formal territory of Serbia. America damentally the same everywhere,” 1964 film “The Killers,” after losing today they are ninety percent of the Union in an effort to placate Serbia “the recognition of Kosovo would and the Europeans, acting through he would write many years later, a a duel of words with him over the population. When in 1997 to 1999, offered to sign a Stabilization and be an international precedent that the U.N. Security Council, could vision he carried into his work. affections of a woman. a militant Kosovar organization, Association Agreement as a first would open a pandora’s box.” He provide a permanent guarantee of Cassavettes died in 1989, only Cassavettes was an uncompro- KLA, started armed pressure for in- step on the road to eventual mem- has a good reason to be concerned. the Kosovar’s autonomy. In addi- 59 years old. As respected as he mising risk-taker later in his career, dependence from Serbia, Milose- bership. The Serbian Prime Minis- Russia also has minorities that may tion, an agreement could be signed was in Hollywood amongst rebels, even if he had to play television vic, the then Serbian dictator, re- establishing in perpetuity that the his memory had faded a bit in this roles himself, such as the jazz de- sponded with brutal violence. The Kosovar’s will never attempt to era of $200 million movies about tective Johnny Staccato in 1959, Kosovars exploiting, the humani- unite their area with next door Al- zombies, Spidermen and trans- and when he decided to make inde- tarian sentiments of the West, bania thereby violating Serbia’s ter- former toys that come alive, even pendent films he burnished them gained support of their demand for ritorial integrity. though his son Nick and daughter with a new eye and made films a independence. Those conditions no Such a solution should not be Zoe have become directors. Nick di- different art to be emulated, his in- longer apply. Milosevic has been beyond the mental capacity of our rected a last script by his father, fluence seen in such films as Martin dead and out of the picture for policy makers to understand, or be- “She’s So Lovely,” that won a best Scorsese’s “Mean Streets.” After more than seven years. One might yond their ability to impose on the actor award at the Cannes Film Fes- graduating from the American have expected that some people in Kosovar secessionists. tival for acclaimed actor Sean Academy of Arts, he worked in Washington would have under- There is not much time left . Penn. Like many actors and direc- groundbreaking television antholo- stood the difference. Instead some May be that the article in The tors who followed, he too came un- gy series and rapidly turned to extreme nationalists [or neocons] Washington Times by the three for- der the influence of Cassavettes, teaching acting , opening a studio who want to preserve the fiction mer high officials and an article by who was as much Greek as Ameri- with Bart Lane, father of actress Di- that the U.S. is the only Superpow- Professor Ruth Wedgwood of Johns can and deserves to be remem- ane Lane. It was during this time he er and can do whatever it pleases, Hopkins University published in bered as a genuine treasure for his met and married actress Gena Row- have kept the policy alive with the the Wall Street Journal will help country. Both of them. lands, who would star in 10 of his approval of Vice President Chenney our President to avoid another pit- So it was serendipity when Zoe films. A photo of the two at the Hel- and President Bush. Knowledge- fall. came to Athens to talk about a film lenic American Union exhibit, tak- able informants hold that an addi- of hers some months ago and a en in the prime of their careers, tional reason may be their aim to A Serb couple look at leaflets reading “Independent Kosovo? Will not Dr. Kousoulas is Professor Greek newspaper gave away a DVD shows devotion and love and sub- set up in due course one or more happen - Will not pass!” in the Serb-dominated part of the ethnically di- Emeritus of Political Science at of another of Cassavettes ground- dued passion. military bases in the region to keep vided town of Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia, Wednesday, February 13. The Howard University in breaking works, “The Killing of a In 1959, he turned to friends Russia in check. U.N. Security Council agreed to Serbia's request for an urgent meeting Washington, DC. He is the author Chinese Bookie,” and even better and family for funds to make his That John Bolton, the former U. on Thursday to discuss the expected declaration of independence by of several books, notably "The when the Hellenic American Union first film, “Shadows,” which, typi- N. Ambassador, no bleeding heart Kosovo's ethnic Albanian leaders. Kosovo is a province of Serbia but it Life and Times of Constantine the in Athens recently opened a Cas- cally, was ignored in the United liberal himself, has co-signed the has been under U.N. and NATO administration since a NATO-led air war Great (1999)," and numerous savettes exhibit, featuring pho- States but won the critics award at article in The Washington Times is halted a Serb crackdown on ethnic Albanian separatists in 1999. scholarly articles. tographs of him taken by Sam and the Venice Film Festival. He was Larry Shaw, friends renowned for European when Americans were fa- their pictures of Hollywood stars. voring monster movies like “The The exhibit included a retrospec- Blob,” which came out the year be- tive of Cassavettes’ films, those he fore. Cassavettes didn’t care. wrote and directed and starred in, “He was so intense, he walked in- Lukewarmness: The Biggest Threat to the Future of sometimes with friends Peter Falk, to a room and everything went qui- TV’s detective Colombo, and anoth- et,” said Edy Shaw, Sam’s daughter, er regular in Cassavettes’ stable, ac- who worked for Cassavettes as a Greek Education in the United States of America tor Ben Gazzara. They appeared on graphic artist. She and her sister the cover of Life magazine in 1968 Meta, who appeared in one of his By Christopher Tripoulas people and their language. It's the things better. difference; and as we all know, in- after Cassavettes’ film “Faces” star- films, came to Athens for the open- Special to the National Herald only reason that can explain why In one of his articles, Greek aca- difference is the noose of every re- tled audiences with its realistic de- ing of the exhibit, where the open- we get so happy and begin to like demician/philosopher Christos lationship. piction of the slow decay of a mar- ing drew an enthusiastic audience A few weeks ago marked the cel- (even love) everyone else who Yannaras argues that true genius is Before we can make any riage. as well as Greece’s Cultural Minister. ebration of the feast of the Three shows interest in it as well. Why characterized by “exceptionally progress on this issue, we have to “Cassavetes was the most fer- Like Woody Allen, who followed Hierarchs, Basil the Great, Gregory else would so many Greeks risk acute sensitivity.” He goes on to say approach it with love. The same vent man I ever met, and he didn’t him, Cassavettes liked working with the Theologian and John Chrysos- their lives (and more importantly, that a truly genius person under- kind of love that led our ancestors have a copy-cat bone in his body,” the same cast and crew. “When tom; a holiday synonymous with the lives of their children) by se- stands others profoundly, because to put their own children in harm’s Falk said. “Every Cassavetes film is you’re creating art like he did, every- the celebration of Greek Letters. cretly sending them to Greek “he is open to a genuine relation- way so that they could provide always about the same thing. thing was in tune. A passion was Greek Orthodox Christians all over schools during the Turkish occupa- ship with you, he truly listens, he them with an education. That Somebody said ‘Man is God in ru- formed,” said Edy Shaw. the world recognize these three tion? Much as it peeves revisionist doesn’t sit there and plan his own means that parents are just as re- ins,’ and John saw the ruins with a Cassavettes always seemed an- great ecumenical illuminators and historians, the overwhelming ma- response while you are talking. He sponsible as Church leaders and clarity that you and I could not tol- gry and was a whirl of work, but it saints of the Church as patrons and jority of Greek people know that tries to learn from you, he needs the Greek Government for our po- erate.” was writing scripts and directing protectors of Greek Education. Due from the fall of Constantinople un- you, he listens to what you have to tential failure…or success. Cassavettes liked working in that moved him. “If he had stayed in large to the great learnendness til the Greek revolution in 1821 say; even if he totally disagrees If the cost of running Greek black-and-white while the rest of acting, he would have been a su- and spiritual cultivation of these (and even later for many areas still with you…in short, this defines the American day schools under the the film world was chasing Techni- perstar,” said Shaw. He was inter- Church Fathers and their personal occupied) the most common and true archon [noble man].” current system is too much for indi- color rainbows, and he wasn’t ested in the human condition. “He love for the classics, the legacy of successful act of national resistance If you also consider ancient vidual communities and the Arch- afraid to let scenes be drawn out wanted to talk about people, about Greek learning and letters became was for Greeks to send their chil- Greek philosopher Heraclitus’ diocese to bear, they should just and show people just talking to their relationships, their lives,” she an edifice for Christian theology dren to a “kryfo scholeio;” a secret claim that “the learning of many come out and say so. At least it each other, a documentary style said, and just tell their unadorned and an invaluable tool in the soul- school usually operating “illegally” things does not teach understand- would be a step in the right direc- that seemed impromptu but was stories. searching every person inherently inside a church or monastery. ing” you will see that we are in dire tion. Only then can we begin to dis- scripted only after improvisational He is one of only six men to be does. This sweet mixture of Hel- Almost 200 years later, here in need of an attitude adjustment. Be- cuss possible solutions to make work. There were no car chase nominated for Best Writing, Acting, lenism and Christianity gave birth the grand old USA, January is fore we can even begin to discuss things better (whether that means scenes or blockbusters for him and and Directing (for, appropriately, to a golden age in the Christian Greek Education month. I think; further involvement from the that’s why, as a truly independent “A Woman Under the Influence,”) Church that continues to capture maybe. Ok, I'm really not sure. The Greek Government, pilot programs filmmaker, he never really got the and it was left to him to describe the minds and guide the souls of reason that I – along with many It means that parents by major Greek public benefit foun- notice he deserved, despite so how films should be made. “There’s people all over the world. others – am not sure is that nothing are just as responsible dations, the development of new much critical acclaim. He was a a difference between ad-libbing Greeks' love for their language all that important happens to make types of grass roots support for beatnik in a pop world weaned on and improvising. And there’s a dif- and culture has followed them us take notice. And I'm not just talk- as Church leaders and schooling, etc.). It is only love that mush. “He was a maverick in a ference between not knowing what throughout history. Always an un- ing about a big fancy luncheon at the Greek Government can overcome pride, mutual suspi- world filled with mules,” was how to do and just saying something. Or easy people, with a thirst for adven- some ritzy hotel like we used to for our potential ciousness, or vanity in this situa- one friend described him in a docu- making choices as an actor. As a ture and exploration, Greeks be- have back in Archbishop Iakovos’ tion. It is only love that can serve as mentary. “He said it’s the team writer also, as a person who’s mak- came truly cosmopolitan; citizens days. You could make the argument failure...or success. the impetus for some kind (any players who make the money but ing a film, as a cameraman, every- of the world. While the majority of that the funds to book this event kind) of action. The Book of Reve- the mavericks who make the medi- thing is a choice. And it seems to Greeks would probably agree with were a waste of money and could the particulars of some sort of na- lation issues a stern warning um. He said just don’t be afraid of me I don’t really have to direct any- Athenian orator Isocrates' criterion be used elsewhere, except that it tional or regional strategy on the against being “lukewarm,” lest God anything and don’t be afraid of any- one or write down that somebody’s that Hellenism is defined by a com- doesn't look like they are being future of Greek Education in the spit us out of His mouth. one.” Former Boston University getting drunk; all I have to do is say mon “Paideia” (Education) or used anywhere else – worthwhile, United States, before we can de- It’s this lukewarm attitude that film professor Ray Carney, who that there’s a bottle there and put a mode of existence (Tropos), it is that is. bate whether charter schools are is plaguing Greek Education in the wrote his biography, said Cas- bottle there and then they’re going unquestionable that language is At some point there has to be good or bad, or whether we need U.S. more than anything else. Peo- savetes told his parents he wanted to get drunk.” the most obvious litmus test to see some kind of public recognition that less larger Greek American day ple talk about a lack of funds, low to be an actor but that his father “As an artist, I feel that we must if this criterion has been met. The we've screwed up. Somewhere schools or more smaller ones, or motivation among staff members, wasn’t thrilled at the idea, then told try many things - but above all we word "barbarian," which was first along the way, we managed to make even whether sinking so much limited potential for growth, etc. him he had to work hard because must dare to fail,” he said. He never used by Greeks in reference to non- a mess of things. The state of Greek money into Hellenic studies pro- But we all know that “where there’s he would be portraying human did, and that’s why we’re still under Greek speakers, is actually an ono- education is operating in some gray grams at colleges is even worth- a will there’s a way.” At some point emotions truthfully, advice that the influence of Cassavettes. matopoeia (I did learn something area somewhere between aphasia while when primary and secondary we’re going to have to face this Cassavettes, who loved his Greek in junior high English class after and indifference. We're graduating Greek education institutions are crossroad and make a conscious de- heritage, never forgot. Mr. Dabilis was the New England all). It represents the Greeks' at- priests that speak worse Greek than barely surviving, we need to recap- cision. Either embrace the issue of Although initially rejected by the editor for United Press Interna- tempt to put into words the sounds Chuck Schumer at the Greek parade ture this “exceptionally acute sensi- Greek education with real fervor Actors Studio in one of their more tional in Boston, and a staff writer (“bar, bar”) they heard these for- with his bullhorn in hand yelling tivity” Yannaras is talking about. and passion, or fool ourselves into colossal mistakes, he became a and assistant metropolitan editor eign speakers uttering. "Zito I Ellada" (Long Live Greece). The Greek American Communi- thinking that a cushy job and an oc- memorable actor, shown in the devi- at the Boston Globe for 17 years Centuries have gone by since We don’t even offer an incentive for ty can boast all it wants about how casional act of goodwill will be ous intensity he brought to the before relocating to Greece. His then, but it remains true that you them to spend some time in Greece learned its priests and hierarchs enough to address our people’s creepy Satanic film, “Rosemary’s Ba- column is published weekly in the can win the heart of most any so they can learn the language bet- are, or how successful its politi- age-old metaphysical concerns and by,” and in the World War II suicide National Herald. Readers interest- Greek with the slightest attempt to ter. Many of the (few) Greek day cians and professionals are, or even solidify our unique presence in his- mission film “The Dirty Dozen,” in ed in contacting him can send e- speak his or her language. They are parochial schools out there are in how high our per capita level of col- tory. The first choice ensures the 1967, where he co-starred alongside mails to [email protected]. overwhelmed by an inexplicable such financial distress they can lege education is. The fact remains continuation of Greek America and sense of pride – joy even – when a hardly afford to pay their employ- that the “learning of many things the Hellenic legacy. I shudder to foreigner takes the time and effort ees their already meager wages. does not teach understanding.” think what the second option GUEST EDITORIALS to speak Greek. Any xenophobic There is no national (or even re- Our leaders, our decision makers, brings. feelings immediately subside, and gional) strategy in place to raise our benefactors, and the whole lot The National Herald welcomes manuscripts representing a variety of views the Greek speaker gradually begins funds to support these schools. We of us are going to keep missing the Christopher Tripoulas is an Ad- for publication in its View Points page. They should include the writer’s to allow this foreigner into his or haven’t even been able to formulate bigger picture when it comes to junct Professor of Speech and In- name, address, and telephone number and be addressed to the View her in-group. There is only one way a plan on how to raise and logically Greek Education if we don’t stop terpersonal Communication at Points Editor, The National Herald, 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY to explain this "buoyancy.” It is the distribute funds between local the lip service and really start St. John's University. He holds same reason people get sweaty Greek day schools and Greek stud- showing that we care. graduate degrees concentrating 11101. They can also be faxed to (718) 472-0510 or, preferably, e-mailed palms or a racing heartbeat at the ies programs at universities. And Every relationship is based on in Speech, Communications and to [email protected]. Due to considerations of space mere mention of their sweetheart. despite all these shortcomings, truth. The current policy of leaving Second Language Acquisition. In we enforce a strict 1,400-word upper limit. We reserve the right to edit for Call it "eros," call it "agape," call it there is no desire or willingness on individual Greek communities sole- addition, he specializes in trans- repetitiveness, diction and syntax. We regret that we are unable to ac- whatever you will… behalf of the powers that be to just ly responsible for the fate of Greek lations, and several works of his knowledge or return manuscripts, published or unpublished. There is a centuries-old love af- admit that there is a problem and education is not only unrealistic has been published from Greek fair going on between the Greek get on with the business of making (untruthful), it is the epitome of in- toEnglish. 12 FEATURE THE NATIONAL HERALD, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 After 24 Seasons, Chris Chelios Still Proving he’s NHL’s Iron Man

Continued from page 1 youth. They’ve kind of eased years. He was very much involved younger players in with a group of with the Greek community. Most of relax a little. And then you have din- core veteran guys, so it’s been pretty the things we participated in were ner with the guys. If you have time nice,” he said. through the Church – Sunday in between, you might hit a movie By normal standards, a 46-year- school, Greek school, Greek dances. on your days off while you’re on the old man is still quite young. But in We always went to Greek picnics road, but basically it’s dinner, and high contact professional sports like and other events that they had. I’ve that’s it. We don’t really have that Hockey, 46 is up there. So how does been to a lot of weddings and bap- much time, anymore. Before, we Chelios feel about playing with tisms. We spent a lot of weekends in used to stay overnight, but now younger athletes in their twenties Chicago’s Greektown because, at we’re chartering, so it’s usually a day and thirties, and how does he offset the time, Greektown in Chicago was and half trip,” he said. the grueling physical demands and one of the best in the United States. “We usually go in groups of guys. ravages of time at that level of com- That’s basically the gist of it,” he Whoever wants Italian goes Italian. petition? said. Whoever wants steak goes steak. He attributes his longevity to “As I got older, Montreal also had That takes about an hour and a half, staying in good physical condition quite a big Greek community, so I and then it’s right back to the hotel; and playing on a winning team. He was active with them for fundrais- get a good night’s sleep; and rest up also says his hobbies during the off- ers, again through the Church. Not for game time. The day of the game, season, surfing and mountain bik- that I’m religious, but when I went you do your morning skate; you ing, and being a role player have back to Chicago, we played every have lunch around 12-12:30; and helped add a few more years to his Sunday, so that kind of ended my then you relax at the hotel until long and storied career. church-going days. In Montreal, we game time,” he added. “I’ve always said that, if I ever do played every Saturday and Monday, When he’s home in Detroit, Che- retire, it will be more of a physical is- and we had Sundays off. When I got lios said he tries to spend most of his sue than a mental one. I still prepare traded back to Chicago, we played free time with family. Family obliga- myself and love playing as much as I every Saturday on the road and tions don’t permit him to spend ever did. Obviously with the role every Sunday at home, so basically, much time with his teammates off change and the way the game has my only affiliation with the Greek the ice. Chelios and his wife Tracee, evolved, I’m finding the physical community at that point became the whom he met while they were stu- part of it is not as much of an issue as fundraisers and banquets that I at- dents together at the University of it used to be, so that makes it even tended. Detroit also has a big Greek Wisconsin in Madison, have been easier as you get older because the community, and Greektown there is married for 20 years and have four physical aspect definitely takes its very accessible for me, so I’ve done a children: Dean, Jake, Caley and toll on your body,” he said. few things for the Greek community Tara. All his kids were baptized in “I think my biggest advantage is there. I was grand marshal of their the Greek Orthodox Church. that, during the off-season, I’ve got Greek Independence Day parade, So how does he relate to the the luxury of training out in Califor- and Easter is always a big day,” he younger players on his team? Is he a nia. Whether it’s surf- GREGORY SHAMUS/GETTY IMAGES/DETROIT RED WINGS said, noting that his father still plays mentor, or is he still one of the guys? ing on the ocean or TOP: Chris Chelios, #24, of the Detroit Red Wings moves to control a role in helping him stay in touch “It’s kind of strange sometimes. I mountain biking, I’ve the puck in front of teammate Derek Meech and Andrew Brunette, with the community. think back to the time when I was got access to all that #15, of the Colorado Avalanche at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit this past “My dad, anytime he comes in 23-24, and (Montreal Canadiens right outside my front February 1. Detroit won the game 2-0. LEFT: Retired hockey great town, whether it’s Detroit or Mon- great) Bob Gainey was 33-34, and door, so I think that’s Mark Messier is second on the all-time list for most games played with treal, somehow we end up in Greek- the team’s oldest player. He was one been the key to my 1,756 (Gordie Howe is first with 1,767). Chelios says Messier is the town and run into some of his rela- of my mentors in Montreal, and he longevity over the past greatest all-around player he ever saw or played against. BOTTOM tives or people he grew up with in showed me the ropes – breaking in eight years now – be- RIGHT: Chris Chelios hoists the Stanley Cup over his head after the the village. We just met a lady re- with Montreal was like getting a ing able to train in the Red Wings’ victory in this June 13, 2002 file photo. Chelios became cently in Los Angeles whose father Harvard degree in Hockey – and as San Diego area. If I’m the second oldest player ever on the ice during an NHL game in De- grew up three houses down from my much as I enjoyed hanging around in Michigan or some- troit this past January 8, just 17 days shy of his 46th birthday. Fans at dad’s. They hadn’t seen or spoken to him and the other older players, the where else, I don’t Joe Louis Arena gave him a standing ovation. BOTTOM LEFT: Chicago each other in like 35-40 years, yet fact that they had older kids and have the mountains or Bears legend Dick Butkus, widely considered the greatest middle line- they managed to hook up. Some- other interests made it tough to do the ocean. I can get backer in NFL history, was Chris Chelios’ sports idol growing up as a how, my dad always finds the that for too long. When we’re on the away for two months boy in Chicago. Greeks,” Chelios said, adding that road, we go to dinner together, and in the summertime to he still tries to help the community it’s no big deal, but at home, because prepare for the season. by donating and making appear- of family priorities, that’s time I no And it’s very fortunate ances, as his schedule permits. longer have,” Chelios said. that it’s worked out “The fact that I have four kids Playing professional hockey in that way. I wasn’t real- means I have a much busier sched- the NHL for 24 years is a long time. ly thinking about train- ule now than I used to. I can’t attend Some have said Chelios seems inde- ing when I moved out a lot of the events as much, any- structible. to the West Coast in more. I’m just not around. In the “Well, so far, eh? I’ve been lucky. the summer, but it was summer, I’m gone. But when I can Fortunately, I haven’t had to uproot a no-brainer once I help out or donate anything, I’ve al- my family again. I’ve been very for- started with my train- ways done that. They just did a doc- tunate in that sense. Most guys end er,” he said. umentary in Detroit. It’s the story of their careers because of that. They What’s it like for a Greek immigrant coming across just get tired of all the traveling him getting up in the morning dur- the Atlantic to America and making around. They don’t want to go on ing the season, going to practice and it big, and it talks about the old their own. When you’ve got kids in showing up for games? Do the phys- country. I was filmed in a part of school, it’s tough to move them ical demands of Hockey ever make that,” he said. around. When I was traded to the him feel like not facing the day? Asked who he thinks is the great- Red Wings from Chicago a few years “Not so much because we’ve est hockey player in the history of ago, I was lucky enough that my been winning, and winning takes the game, Chelios chose Messier. kids were young enough at the time, care of all aches and pains. When I “From an individual skill level, so the move didn’t make a difference was playing in Chicago and we were no one was better than Wayne Gret- then. Now, I’ve got a couple of boys losing, I thought my career was over zky, but as a leader and all-around who play hockey, and I couldn’t ask at times. Physically, I basically felt player, from a physical, offensive for a better place than Detroit run into the ground, carrying such a and defensive standpoint, I would (a.k.a., Hockeytown) for that,” he burden with the amount of ice time I have to go with Mark Messier. I said. had then. And as a team, we didn’t would have loved to play with him. Chelios played in Montreal from have the depth. But I’ve been able to I’m not saying that he had the most 1983 to 1990. He distinguished recover well from that. How it hap- skill in one way or another, but as a himself with his play in 1984, earn- pened, I have no idea. I’d like to complete player, he was the guy ing a trip to the NHL All-Star Game think it had something to do with that really impressed me the most. and was named to the 1985 NHL my training,” he said. Unfortunately, I never played All-Rookie Team. He scored 64 “At the end of the day, you can’t against him in the playoffs, because points in 74 games, a high total for a hide the fact that I’m 46, but every “But when push comes to shove, that’s when you really saw his de- defenseman, even in the higher- morning remarkably, I feel unbeliev- I’m still out there during crucial situ- meanor change. He just had a scoring 1980’s. In the playoffs that ably good. I have nothing chronic. ations – just in more of a defensive switch that he would turn on, and year, he scored 10 points in 9 games. I’ve been very lucky, because I’ve role, as opposed to being a more of- he became an animal. Playing Although he only played 41 games had some pretty significant knee in- fensive player like I was in the past. I against him in some of the World in the 1985-86 season, he won his juries, which have all gone away, so I was always a defenseman, but an of- Cups and Canada Cups, he was like first Stanley Cup in 1986, playing in don’t feel any differently. I just go to fensive defenseman, so I managed SANCYA AP/PAUL the head of a snake. You could cut front of Conn Smythe Trophy win- the rink and practice. I’m still a rink to get a lot of points and score a lot He plays to win, and plays to prove and every game,” he said. the head off and be okay for a little ner Patrick Roy, widely considered rat, and during the season, with the of goals. But the fact that we we’re in he can still do it, even at 46. Chelios was born Christos Kostas while, but it was impossible to stop to be the greatest goaltender in NHL kids in school, there’s nothing for first place on power plays – one of “The day I stop wanting more ice Tselios in Chicago on January 25, him completely,” he said, adding history (the Conn Smythe Trophy is me to do during the day until 3 o’- the best in the league – you can’t re- time is the day that I start worrying 1962. He is the oldest of five sib- that he thinks the greatest active awarded to the Stanley Cup Finals’ clock, anyway. I do most of my ally second-guess our success,” he about losing my passion for the lings. His brother Steve coaches ju- player is one of his teammates, MVP). weight training in July and August. I said. game. Everybody wants to play nior league and minor league hock- Nicklas Lidstrom, who has won five Following two more good sea- do what I need to do during the sea- “I like to think I’m still in middle more. Everybody wants to con- ey in New Hampshire. He has two Norris Trophies. sons, Chelios really broke out in the son, of course, but it’s just too tough of the rink, so for crucial minutes tribute. I’m no different than any- sisters, Panagiota (Penny) and Eleni “I may be biased, but I think Nick 1988-89 season. He scored 73 to keep a normal schedule like I do and penalty killing – I’m on the first body else in that regard. But I have (Helen). A third sister, Gigi (Geor- Lidstrom is the greatest player in to- points in 80 games, and was named in the summer. In the summertime, unit for penalty killing – I’m still out no intention of retiring. It never re- gia) died of breast cancer eight years day’s game. I would’ve won four to the All-Star First Team, and won I’m religiously in the gym, and out- there. The other night, I played for ally crosses my mind. I know it’s get- ago. His father, Gus (Kostas), came Norris Trophies if it wasn’t for him,” his first James Norris Memorial Tro- side. Mountain biking has been the 21 minutes. I went from playing 13 ting closer, obviously, but the way to the United States from Tripolis. he said. phy as NHL defenseman of the year key to healing my knees and keep- minutes to 21 minutes, and I had no things are going right now, it doesn’t His mother, Chrysoula (Susie), is When asked who his role model in 1989. He was then traded to ing my legs strong. And being on problem doing it. But I’m in a situa- even enter my mind. A month from originally from Kalamata. The Tse- was growing up in Chicago, he Chicago, where he played for the winning team. That’s helped keep tion with this coach (Mike Babcock), now, things could change quick, es- lios family attended Saint Nicholas named three famous Blackhawks Blackhawks. He would help lead the me around longer, and the fact that I who’s decided that’s what my role is pecially if we stop winning. If we Church in Oak Lawn, on Chicago’s players, as well as a certain profes- Blackhawks to the Stanley Cup Fi- don’t play as many minutes as I used right now, and I’ve accepted that be- don’t enjoy success, the first thing south side. sional football icon. nals in 1992, before they lost to to means there’s less risk of me get- cause we’re winning,” he added. they’re going to point at is my age, Chelios says he doesn’t get back “Growing up in Chicago, it would Mario Lemieux and the Pittsburgh ting injured during the minutes that Chelios still maintains his pas- so because of my age, I’ve pretty to Chicago very often. His primary have to be Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita Penguins. Chelios remained in top I do play,” he added. sion and drive for the game, he said. much got to prove myself every day connection to the Greek American and Tony Esposito. The Blackhawks form with the Blackhawks, however, Chelios’ contract with Detroit is community had always been the had some really charismatic players, winning his second and third Norris now year-by-year, however, so stay- Church, he says, but because he has and my dad just loved them. We Trophies in 1993 and 1996. He also ing in tip-top shape isn’t the only fac- to play on Sundays, he doesn’t get to never really had a chance to see played on the United States all-star tor in his march to breaking Howe’s go to church much, anymore, al- them play that often. The games team, which won the 1996 World record, which could take another though he still tries to help the com- weren’t televised. But when my dad Cup championship. two seasons or more. The Red Wings munity by attending banquets and had a chance to get some tickets, Chelios was traded to Detroit in also need to keep signing him. If fundraisers. we’d go to the stadium. So those are 1999, and has been with the Red they don’t, he would have to play for “My parents are still in Chicago, some of my most vivid memories. Wings ever since (he played briefly another team to match or surpass and I have a sister there, but aside For my dad, hockey was the only for the Motor City Mechanics in the record. for making a couple trips in the sum- thing that was somewhat similar to 2004-05, due to an NHL players’ Still, Chelios has no complaints. mertime to go to Wrigley Field and soccer. Don’t ask me how he com- strike). The Red Wings won the He’s still getting his game time, he spend some time with friends, or pared the two, but he just loved the Stanley Cup in 2002. That same says, and he has adjusted to being a from the games the Red Wings play game. He owned nightclubs and year, Chelios also played on the U.S. role player. going in and out, I don’t get back bars, and the players would come in Olympic team, which won the silver “I get paid about $850 thousand. there very often. I don’t own a house because they really liked him a lot, medal during the 2002 Winter I realize I can go somewhere else or anything like that in Chicago too,” he said. Olympics in Salt Lake City. He also and make more, but if I stay, I don’t now,” he said, noting that his Greek “But my favorite athlete ever, and won the first Mark Messier Leader- have to uproot my family. And we’re is a little rusty. I think every kid from Chicago in my ship Award in 2007, given to a play- winning, which will probably “I used to speak, read and write generation would say the same er (selected by Messier himself) who lengthen my career by another 2-3 Greek all the time. I understand it thing, was Dick Butkus. Every kid best exemplifies leadership skills on years if I can keep this up. We’re on now, but when you’re 5-6 hours wanted to be like him. We played and off the ice. track for winning another Cup, and away from home, and you don’t use Dick Butkus football, and just the Chelios says the Red Wings, one that’s basically why I’m still play- it very much, it’s hard to pick it up fact that he was such an animal on of the NHL’s original six teams, and ing,” he said. and start speaking it. My parents the field – he represented that tough for which Howe also played almost “I was on the starting line till speak it at home when they don’t image of Chicago. So if I was to say his entire NHL career, has been good about three years ago, but the last want us to understand what they’re which athlete had a bearing on the to him. couple of years, because of other saying – even though we do,” he way I played, it would be Dick “The franchise has been decent guys’ misfortunes, I get to play. We said chuckling. Butkus,” he added. to me. I couldn’t have been luckier, have a couple guys who’ve suffered What was the extent of his in- Chelios also wanted to stress that going to a team that had just won some pretty significant injuries over volvement with the Greek American he thinks professional tennis legend two Stanley Cups (1997 and 1998), the last couple of years, so I’m al- community from the time he was a Pete Sampras was the greatest and has obviously remained real most like an insurance policy. Every young man? What was it like for him Greek American athlete ever. “Just competitive over the last eight years, time I’m given that opportunity to then, and what’s it like now? look at all his grand slam titles. He winning another Cup in 2002. We’re play as a top-floor defenseman, the “My dad started out as a cabbie played so well for so long, and won still one of the League’s top teams. team’s had success, and I’ve had suc- Chris Chelios, one of the greatest defenseman in NHL history, has won and truck driver, and then ended up all those championships. He was ex- Management hasn’t made that tran- cess, so that’s how it’s worked out,” three Norris Trophies, awarded to the League’s best defenseman each opening his own nightclub and sev- cellent. I don’t know him, but I’d sition where they’re going only with he said. year. He is approaching the record for most games played. eral restaurants and bars over the love to meet him,” he said.